( ooc. just a closed log with the starters i owe for peeps! if you'd like a custom scenario with jinwoo, feel free to send me a pm or ping me on discord so we can work something out. )
[ The air is thick with tension. The sky overhead swirls with unnatural colours, a side effect of the unstable rift energy coursing through Japan. Whatever relief they were afforded is fleeting, because while the kaiju has been brought down, the fight is far from over. If only things could have been easy, but it almost never ends up that way.
It's fine. They'll make it through this one way or another.
Jinwoo stands at the edge of a massive shadow, a swirling purple and black void stretching beneath his feet. A few Outsiders make their way through this shadow portal one by one, vanishing into the darkness only to reappear near the outskirts of Neo Tokyo where the fight is meant to begin. The process has been efficient, but now he's down to one of the last few travelers— Cagalli, and her mobile suit.
The Akatsuki stands near him in all its glory, easily dwarfing him even if this isn't his usual size. He sends Cagalli a message via the Ocular. ]
Ready to leave?
[ It would have been a voice message, but he's trying to keep his breathing steady. He's been fighting exhaustion at every corner since he knows he can't afford to deal with that. Not right now. ]
[ Darkness. Endless and absolute, stretching beyond the reaches of thought.
Jinwoo drifts in it, weightless, a lone shadow swallowed by something far deeper. There's no sound, no movement— just the oppressive silence of the void. And then, a flicker: a glimpse of Cagalli.
( She was moving toward the portal, her mobile suit sinking into the abyss he created. He helped her. That much, he knew. But something was wrong— his balance faltered, shadows twisting unnaturally beneath his feet. A sensation like gravity shifted, dragging him downwards. A voice called out to him— his own? Someone else's? It was hard to say. )
And now—
A sharp gasp is torn from Jinwoo’s throat as his body jerks upright.
His vision swims, a blur of light and movement. The air around him is thick, damp, and smelled faintly of antiseptic and blood. His chest heaves as he tried to get his bearings, the distant sound of hurried footsteps and murmuring voices barely registering over the pounding in his skull.
A flicker of movement catches his eye. A figure, blurry and indistinct, is nearby, but he can't tell what they're doing. He tenses, instincts screaming at him to react, but his body feels sluggish, heavy. His senses are still catching up, still trying to piece together where he was and how he ended up here. ]
[People are on edge, understandably so, having traversed all the way out only to be told the threat they'd been pursuing has revealed itself to be back at the main base. It raises so many issues and questions. What ifs and why nots bounce through thoughts like pinballs.
Cagalli is no exception to any of this, despite her experience with risky strategic calls. Maybe the anxiety is worse when she's not the one making the decision, it's hard to tell. The familiarity of the cockpit serves to steady and remind her of what she needs to focus on. Hypotheticals and hindsight are useless.
Once Jinwoo's message arrives, she replies in the affirmative, tone strong in her voice.]
Of course. Stay behind the Akatsuki until we're clear. [Some of his abilities are known to her, but it's still better to shield someone outside of a mobile suit if possible.]
[ Jinwoo stands at the edge of a crumbling walkway, staring out at the ruins of Neo Tokyo. The city remains smoldering in certain areas, its skyline marred by the skeletal remains of fallen buildings, flickering neon, and twisted metal. Even as they hide away in the underground bunkers, the destruction above is impossible to ignore.
It reminds him too much of what happened in his world's version of Tokyo. He had seen the city crumble under the wrath of the Monarchs, watched as their army of beasts and titans tore through everything and rendered them into dust. The chaos, the desperation— it never seems to change, no matter the world. Neo Tokyo wasn't spared from such a fate, so he can't help but wonder.
Will it all end the same?
Will his battle against Antares, whenever he's allowed to fight it, end the same way?
He exhales sharply, shaking off the thought. He can always worry about that later.
With that, he turns and makes his way through the dimly lit corridors of the bunkers. The distant chatter of staff and other Outsiders echo through the winding paths. The place feels like a maze, but he's already mapped out most of it in his head thanks to sending Igris and Beru to check the place out. It's nothing like the base, but at least it's functional.
It doesn't take him long to reach his destination. He stops in front of the sliding door, calling out Ishmael's name once before letting himself in. ]
Hey. [ His head tilts as he steps inside. ] What happens to our date now that you're like this?
[ Despite his casual tone, it's clear the fight has taken its toll on him too. He's still tired days later, but it's beyond the physical stuff at this point. ]
[ she swears she can hear the destruction going on outside. the noise permeates even in her deep slumber, when she was still tapdancing on the line between life and death. it's no different from trying to sleep on a rocking ship as it braves the violent waves, not knowing what monstrosity they're going to face next in hot pursuit of the whale.
then she wakes up, and realizes that this world is no different either. even moreso with the carnage going on outside. she blinks at the ceiling, head tilting slightly at jinwoo's voice and his offhanded comment.
oh, right. she closes her eyes in guilt, but she tries playing it off by matching his casual tone. too bad her voice only sounds weaker and more hoarse than here. ]
You should've brought flowers then, if you're going to start off like that.
[ but no, she doesn't have the energy for more jokes. she sighs, wincing a little at the slight pain in her middle. ]
...Sorry. I didn't know you were looking forward to it.
You got it. Kaisel and I will be right behind you.
[ As if on cue, the wyvern manifests right beside Jinwoo, allowing the man to step on his back before he gives the mobile suit nearby a big thumbs up. That's Cagalli's signal to step right in. The portal's energy flickers brightly, but otherwise remains stable despite the gravity of their situation.
Jinwoo would have remained silent until she's through the gate, but then— ]
... But if it looks bad on the other side, you'll protect me, right?
[ A last minut tease. To lighten things up, because the tension is so thick he can practically cut through it with a blade. ]
[The Akatsuki moves to step through the portal, stopping briefly only when he sends another message, earning an audible scoff in return.]
Yes. [He may be joking, but she is absolutely serious in her reply.] That's why I told you to stay behind me. What did you think was going on?
[Clearly not an insistence upon ladies first at least.
Cagalli enters through the portal, shield and rifle at the ready. Once on the other side, she leaves enough room for Jinwoo and Kaisel to exit behind her while she gets her bearings. It's just as well, as a large piece of debris comes flying their way as the pair exit behind her and slams into her shield, ricocheting to the side when she moves the suit's arm to shove it away.]
Check behind us! [Just want to make sure nothing's coming from that side.]
[ Jinwoo remains standing by the sliding door, watching Ishmael carefully. The casual tone she tries to match is betrayed by the exhaustion in her voice, the way her body barely moves except for the slight rise and fall of her chest. He doesn't miss the way she closes her eyes, how she seems to retreat inward before forcing herself to speak.
He lets out a soft huff, shaking his head. ]
Flowers, huh? Didn't think you'd want something that wilts so fast.
[ The joke is light, but there's an edge beneath it. His hands flex at his sides before he exhales through his nose, forcing himself to ease up. He had seen too many people on the verge of death— seen too many not come back at all. The fact that Ishmael is even here, talking, is something he shouldn't take for granted.
He studies her for a few more beats, and then steps further into the room. Once he's closer, he kneels beside her futon, one hand outstretched as shadows dance in his palm. They twist and turn until they manifest into the shape of a few different flowers: sunflowers, hyacinths, and orchids. ]
It's not much, but... they'll last longer than the real thing.
[ she was only kidding. that should've been obvious. where can one even get flowers in this desolate landscape anyway, in such harrowing circumstances? she wasn't expecting anything. not anymore, when everything continues to fall apart around her, including her own body that's thankfully beginning its fast recovery thanks to everyone's collective efforts.
she slowly sits up, grunting as she does so, opening her mouth to hopefully segue into another topic, only to clam up as he literally conjures up flowers from the darkness. she stares, dumbfounded, her hand weakly reaching up to receive the makeshift bouque...
and he just had to say that, huh. no, even if he didn't say that, it's the fact that he gave her flowers -- a gesture that a certain someone used to shower her with when he was still around -- that made her feel all sorts of conflicted.
she lowers her head, her face overshadowed with her bangs. ]
Thank you. [ she says, her trembling voice almost inaudible. ] I know you mean well, but...
[ a tear drops onto the shadowy petal, then another. ]
[ the surroundings are unfamiliar to jinwoo, as the actual medical facilities aren't in any shape to host anyone, and there's been a makeshift medical tent setup instead. there's quiet murmuring all around him ]
[ the figure, hopefully becoming less blurry by the second, is leaning over him, frowning intensely. a hand down on his shoulder, surprisingly gentle, trying to indicate that he should stay in place ]
[ the figure, naturally, is hunter, and in addition to his his very gentle touch, he looks concerned, wide-eyed. ]
You're safe. Stay in bed.
[ in contrast to his worried face, he sounds..... grumpy!!!! and cranky!!! ]
[ a little red bird flits over to jinwoo, chirping at him in birdsong -- it sounds comforting? hunter, meanwhile, adds: ]
[ Jinwoo would have said something in return, but he's more focused on watching her pass through the portal okay. When she clears it just fine, he follows suit, telling Kaisel to fly next to her— and then, just as suddenly, he's hit with a wave of nausea. Luckily, he manages to regain his balance before anything happens.
Which is just as well since they're already thrown right into the fray as soon as he passes through. ]
—we're clear!
[ Said through gritted teeth as he tries to keep his breathing even. The portal closes behind them and he directs Kaisel to fly higher to dodge the rest of the incoming debris. ]
What a welcoming party, huh. [ The weather is somehow worse than what it was back in Yamanashi, but it makes sense given that the imugi is right here. If he's holding onto Kaisel a bit tighter than usual, he tries not to make a big deal out of it. ] I'll follow your lead!
[ That'll give him time to stop the world from feeling like it's tilting rapidly to one side. ]
cannot believe he stepped on this landmine so early
[ He watches as her fingers hover over the flowers, barely brushing against the petals before something gets to her. The way her voice trembles, how she lowers her head to hide her face— he doesn't need to see the tears to know that she's crying.
His hands tighten into fists. Idiot. He can't believe the mistake he just made.
It's not too long ago when they spoke together for the first time, when she told him about how LILITH suffered important losses last year. He hadn't pressed her then, but now, watching her reaction, the pieces fit a little too well. Like a puzzle he wasn't meant to solve. Someone important to her (someone who used too give her flowers) is now gone.
Maybe he should let the flowers fade back into the shadows, but then he thinks— no. That's not it. He lets out a quiet breath, choosing his next words carefully. ]
... No. Nothing lasts forever.
[ He doesn't try to deny it. After all, he knows the heavy feeling that comes with loss. There's no point in offering empty reassurances. Instead, he reaches out, not quite touching her, just resting his hand nearby hers by the futon. He's giving her the space to decide if she wants to take it, but at least he lets her know he's there. ]
But that doesn't mean what's gone is forgotten. And it doesn't mean you have to carry it alone. [ His voice is soft and steady. ] Isn't that what you were trying to tell me before?
[ The blurriness doesn't go away entirely, not for a while. It's only thanks to Hunter's voice that Jinwoo finally relaxes. The grumpiness in his voice, however... Not exactly reassuring, but Jinwoo figures he deserves it for what happened. Even if he can't entirely remember what happened.
(It's fine.)
He blinks a few more times, and the first thing he sees is the red bird chirping at him. ]
I— [ He shakes his head slowly, and then directs his gaze towards Hunter finally. ] I'm not hurt. I'm fine. I'm just... tired, that's all.
[ He thinks Cagalli might have caught him while he was in freefall, so that explains the lack of injuries, but his whole body feels heavy. Sluggish. It's even taking a lot of energy to sit upright so he'll stay lying down for a while. ]
[ it's apparent how he's trying to navigate through this topic with the delicacy it deserves, and she will commend him on that. he's only been here for a month and a half so she doesn't expect him to know everything that had happened last year -- and honestly, the less he knows about her greatest losses, the better. he talks as if he has another world's burdens to carry; no need to add more to that too.
she shifts in her futon, huddling her knees close to her chest and resting her chin atop them, tilting her head slightly to stare at some random spot on the ground. she also puts the flower down between the gap between jinwoo's hand and hers. it's too early for them to go straight to holding-hands phase rn 😔 ]
I know, I know. I just... didn't expect you to deliver, I guess.
[ she brings up her free hand to wipe away some stray tears in her eye, sniffling. ]
But I still feel bad. I was looking forward to that date, too. [ she lets out a hollow chuckle. ] Guess I'm going to take a raincheck on that till the city recovers.
Got it! [The Akatsuki crouches then shoots up into the air, flight pack enabling maneuverability beyond what appearances may allow. Cagalli's trajectory angles wide around the imugi's side, back of her machine never turning to the kaiju.
She fires a few shots from her beam rifle. Some are aimed for the monster while others hit larger chunks of rubble falling towards the ground, breaking them into smaller and hopefully safer pieces.]
Stay around the edges until we get a better idea of its abilities-- records only allow for so much! [Meaning it's the first real battle for them both, and data is never a real substitute for actual exposure. Piloting simulations from her early years taught her that the hard way.] And keep an eye out for civilian stragglers. They absolutely take priority over anything else!
[ Jinwoo watches as Ishmael huddles into herself, the flowers now resting between them. She doesn't take his hand, and that's fine. It's not like he expected her to. He lets his fingers relax, resting against the futon instead as the silence settles, unhurried.
A soft exhale escapes him at her words, at the way she wipes her tears like it'll erase everything too. When she mentions the date, a wry smile tugs at the corner of his lips. ]
Raincheck it is. It's more important that you get enough rest and recover, anyway.
[ His tone remains even, but there's something lighter beneath it too. Not teasing, not exactly— just enough to let her know there's no pressure if she'd rather forget about it entirely too. ]
But if you need anything while you're cooped up in here, now's the time to tell me.
You're not fine! [ hunter interjects right away, folding his arms and staring at jinwoo sternly. wow, watch out, the teenager is fussy! ] You passed out.
[ hunter gives him a good up and down scan, as if not trusting jinwoo at his word. but when he sees there's no injuries, he relaxes a fraction. he takes one of his gloves off to reach out to feel jinwoo's forehead with the back of his hand, obviously looking for a fever of sorts. flapjack settles on jinwoo's arm and cants his head between the two of them, then twitters at hunter in a way that sounds... admonishing? ]
I'm not yelling at him! [ hunter responds defensively ] I'm just trying to make sure he doesn't push himself! What if Cagalli hadn't caught him?
[ another chirp and hunter's ears go red, then he stubbornly looks away from the bird and back at jinwoo's face, apparently not even responding to what flapjack last said to him ]
The kaiju's defeated, but it's still a mess. She left a rift behind. But nevermind that, just make sure you're resting.
[ Jinwoo grits his teeth against the nausea and urges Kaisel forward, keeping a steady but evasive course along the imugi's outer range. The creature is massive, its shadow alone eclipsing nearly the entirety of the battlefield. Lightning crackles along its body, flashing between the jagged rides of its scales. Its sheer size makes every movement feel deliberate— lethal.
Still, Jinwoo knows that big doesn't mean slow. The moment Kaisel dips into a lower altitude, the imugi reacts, its head snapping toward them with unsettling precision. The way its eyes lock onto them tellls him everything he needs to know. It seems them as a threat. ]
I'll keep it distracted.
[ He calls out over the comms, his voice steady despite the storm brewing around them. Kaisel lets out a screech as he pulls up sharply, barely dodging a massive swipe of the imugi's tail as it smashes through a crumbling skyscraper.
More lightning surges across the imugi's body, and Jinwoo realizes a second too late that it's charging something. Shit. ]
Kaisel—!
[ The wyvern banks sharply as a beam of crackling energy erupts forward, barely grazing past them as it splits the air with raw power. The sheer force leaves a loud ringing in Jinwoo's ears, making him exhale sharply. But he doesn't stop moving. He directs Kaisel to loop back around, forcing the imugi to track him, to keep its attention locked on him rather than Cagalli. To bring it further away from where there are still people fleeing for their lives. ]
I'll leave it to you!
[ He calls out to her, cutting hard to the right to expose its flank. IF she was waiting for an opening, Jinwoo just handed her one on a silver platter. ]
[ It startles him to feel Hunter's hand on his forehead. Someone looking out for him like this hasn't exactly happened since he became stronger, so he's not really sure how to react. It reminds him a lot when things were much simpler— and when his death was a lot more likely.
He watches the two interact, amused at how Hunter tries to defend himself in front of the bird. ]
Hah...
[ The kaiju is defeated. He'd missed most of the fight, then. That's not what he wanted to hear. ]
I think I've rested enough. How's everyone else? How about you?
[ he mutters, after startling him. hunter himself is very jumpy to touch, so he gets it ]
[ but after that little mumbled apology, he folds his arms and attempts to look stern ]
[ flapjack is also watching jinwoo, and chirps something ]
Flap wants to know if you're having any lingering effects from using your power, or if everything feels the way it should.
[ apparently the bird thought to ask that before hunter. hunter, on the other hand, is a little bruised and battered, looks more exhausted than usual, but overall.... seems to be generally fine. also probably very hard to take seriously while he's trying to be stern (tm) ]
I'm fine. [ hunter insists stubbornly. ] Everyone's.... scattered. The base got destroyed in the explosion. But you better not try to run off and overexert yourself again.
[ his voice softens ] Just. Make sure you're okay first.
[ Jinwoo can only offer a withering smile, one that says don't worry about it as Hunter apologizes to him. Upon the mention of Flapjack, it takes him a moment to realize that it's referring to the bird with them. He blinks once, and then glances at the shadows in the room. It's almost as if his focus is entirely on them before he shakes his head slowly. ]
... It's hard to say. I think the rift messed with me when I tried transporting people earlier.
[ That was something that came up during the tests, but he'd ignored it, thinking he'd just get used to the feeling. Of course, that's not what happened. The feeling grew worse, and that's why he woke up here instead of helping them win the fight.
He looks up at the mention of the base. ]
It was destroyed? [ He remembers that, vaguely. But it all feels like a blur. He exhales slowly. ] I missed out on a lot.
[ Rest isn't even on the forefront of his mind right now. ]
[ flapjack meets his gaze when looked at, offering a friendly little twitter. jinwoo may not understand it, but it seems to be encouraging. hunter, sharp as he is, follows his gaze to the shadows ]
Are they alright?
[ are they acting the way they should? ]
[ at the mention of the base, hunter sighs and starts to fidget with his hands, obviously a little uncomfortable ]
It was.... fast. We didn't defeat the imugi, she killed the hatchlings and herself so they'd all explode and destroy the base. You couldn't have stopped it even if you were awake, none of us could have.
[ just talking about this makes hunter's hands start to shake and tremble, for some mysterious reason, and he stashes them in his pockets ] Forget about me. It doesn't matter. Just take care of yourself, that's way more important.
That's not what--!! [Dammit! He's already moving before she can tell him that, no, an opening was not the goal here. Still, intentional or not, surrendering an opportunity is a soundly stupid decision.
With a loud curse, Cagalli maneuvers the Akatsuki to avoid the energy beam as well, keeping an eye on Kaisel and Jinwoo to the best of her ability. That includes when she stops midair and readies her beam rifle and cannons, shooting several bright streams of firepower at the same spot on the imugi's hide. All she sees when firing ceases is a blackened scorch mark. Anything else is missed as she fires the engines once again to catch up to the duo.]
Circle back, you're too far from us!
[Her voice is stern, obviously used to giving orders that may or may not be followed anyway. Regardless, the ocular does send Jinwoo a subconscious message, words unneeded when one character can do the job just fine.]
[ The shadows flicker in and out of existence. Beru is worried, murmuring something about being allowed to heal Jinwoo, but Jinwoo dismisses them all instead. They're gone within a blink of an eye. ]
They're fine. They're just worried, I guess.
[ Just like Hunter and Flapjack. Jinwoo watches Hunter as he recalls what happened, picking up on his body language and the way he trembles. He reaches out to pat him on the head. ]
... Thanks for keeping me safe.
[ There's nothing else he could say to the rest of the stuff, considering it's all in the past, but at least this— he can at least tell Hunter that he did good, despite the outcome of the fight with the imugi. ]
[ when jinwoo reaches out to pat him on the head, initially he flinches instinctively, as if expecting pain ]
[ thankfully, it's shortlived, and instead he just looks at jinwoo in mild confusion at the gesture. guess who hasn't received affection in his life before synflux!! this guy!!! ]
I didn't do anything. [ he grumbles, because of course he does. tsun tsun tsun tsun tsun. flapjack gives hunter an entirely unimpressed look, which hunter ignores. but he softens: ]
But I'm glad you're safe. Stay that way.
[ he's awkward at showing his care, but it's there ]
[ The moment Cagalli's command comes through, his ocular flashes with a single symbol— simple, direct, and just a little exasperated. Seriously?
A sharp breath escapes him, something close to a chuckle despite the chaos around them. It's not the time to be amused, but hell, he kind of is. She's got a way of getting her point across, that's for sure. ]
Alright, alright. I hear you. I'm coming back.
[ —is what he says through the comms before he directs Kaisel into a sharp turn, angling away from the imugi's line of fire and bringing himself closer to her. The wyvern screeches, wings beating hard to stabilize after the maneuver, but Jinwoo keeps his movements precise. He doesn't need to make this harder on either of them. ]
So its hide is ridiculous. They weren't lying about that. You think we should give it another shot?
[ Or should they try to focus on regrouping with the rest of the Outsiders before another attempt? ]
Don't do that again, you don't know what's coming next! [Cagalli's tone remains exceedingly irritated, but a little relief does make itself known.] Let's regroup and go from there. There's no point in planning too far ahead when we're still figuring out what we're up against.
[As Jinwoo and Kaizel circle back, the Akatsuki moves to meet them but keeps enough distance to change course if needed, as his movements are sharper than before.
The imugi, however, notices his adjusted flight pattern and readies herself to intercept. A crackle of electricity snakes across her body in preparation, noticed almost too late by the pilot.]
Move!! [She all but screams at him, urgency overtaking every fiber of her being with previous grievances lost in the wind. Thrusters ignite, and the golden machine shoots forward to intercept the attack, lining up to meet the bolt of pure energy just in time to prevent it from outright frying her allies.
The area lights up as it strikes, blinding anyone looking their direction with a sudden glare of bright light accompanied by a loud snapping sound.]
[ Jinwoo realizes his mistake before his hand connects with Hunter's head, but just as he's about to pull away, the younger one stays put, so he pats his head as gently as he can. It's not his place to ask about why there was such a strong reaction. Maybe he can bring it up next time, but not now. ]
You watched over me, didn't you?
[ That's more than enough. ]
And I don't plan on letting this happen again, so you don't have to worry.
[ Who knew the rift would get to him too? It's annoying, so he has to figure out how to deal with that better next time. ]
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ᴄᴀɢᴀʟʟɪ.
It's fine. They'll make it through this one way or another.
Jinwoo stands at the edge of a massive shadow, a swirling purple and black void stretching beneath his feet. A few Outsiders make their way through this shadow portal one by one, vanishing into the darkness only to reappear near the outskirts of Neo Tokyo where the fight is meant to begin. The process has been efficient, but now he's down to one of the last few travelers— Cagalli, and her mobile suit.
The Akatsuki stands near him in all its glory, easily dwarfing him even if this isn't his usual size. He sends Cagalli a message via the Ocular. ]
Ready to leave?
[ It would have been a voice message, but he's trying to keep his breathing steady. He's been fighting exhaustion at every corner since he knows he can't afford to deal with that. Not right now. ]
ʜᴜɴᴛᴇʀ.
Jinwoo drifts in it, weightless, a lone shadow swallowed by something far deeper. There's no sound, no movement— just the oppressive silence of the void. And then, a flicker: a glimpse of Cagalli.
( She was moving toward the portal, her mobile suit sinking into the abyss he created. He helped her. That much, he knew. But something was wrong— his balance faltered, shadows twisting unnaturally beneath his feet. A sensation like gravity shifted, dragging him downwards. A voice called out to him— his own? Someone else's? It was hard to say. )
And now—
A sharp gasp is torn from Jinwoo’s throat as his body jerks upright.
His vision swims, a blur of light and movement. The air around him is thick, damp, and smelled faintly of antiseptic and blood. His chest heaves as he tried to get his bearings, the distant sound of hurried footsteps and murmuring voices barely registering over the pounding in his skull.
A flicker of movement catches his eye. A figure, blurry and indistinct, is nearby, but he can't tell what they're doing. He tenses, instincts screaming at him to react, but his body feels sluggish, heavy. His senses are still catching up, still trying to piece together where he was and how he ended up here. ]
Where...?
[ He might as well figure that one out first. ]
no subject
Cagalli is no exception to any of this, despite her experience with risky strategic calls. Maybe the anxiety is worse when she's not the one making the decision, it's hard to tell. The familiarity of the cockpit serves to steady and remind her of what she needs to focus on. Hypotheticals and hindsight are useless.
Once Jinwoo's message arrives, she replies in the affirmative, tone strong in her voice.]
Of course. Stay behind the Akatsuki until we're clear. [Some of his abilities are known to her, but it's still better to shield someone outside of a mobile suit if possible.]
ɪsʜᴍᴀᴇʟ.
It reminds him too much of what happened in his world's version of Tokyo. He had seen the city crumble under the wrath of the Monarchs, watched as their army of beasts and titans tore through everything and rendered them into dust. The chaos, the desperation— it never seems to change, no matter the world. Neo Tokyo wasn't spared from such a fate, so he can't help but wonder.
Will it all end the same?
Will his battle against Antares, whenever he's allowed to fight it, end the same way?
He exhales sharply, shaking off the thought. He can always worry about that later.
With that, he turns and makes his way through the dimly lit corridors of the bunkers. The distant chatter of staff and other Outsiders echo through the winding paths. The place feels like a maze, but he's already mapped out most of it in his head thanks to sending Igris and Beru to check the place out. It's nothing like the base, but at least it's functional.
It doesn't take him long to reach his destination. He stops in front of the sliding door, calling out Ishmael's name once before letting himself in. ]
Hey. [ His head tilts as he steps inside. ] What happens to our date now that you're like this?
[ Despite his casual tone, it's clear the fight has taken its toll on him too. He's still tired days later, but it's beyond the physical stuff at this point. ]
no subject
then she wakes up, and realizes that this world is no different either. even moreso with the carnage going on outside. she blinks at the ceiling, head tilting slightly at jinwoo's voice and his offhanded comment.
oh, right. she closes her eyes in guilt, but she tries playing it off by matching his casual tone. too bad her voice only sounds weaker and more hoarse than here. ]
You should've brought flowers then, if you're going to start off like that.
[ but no, she doesn't have the energy for more jokes. she sighs, wincing a little at the slight pain in her middle. ]
...Sorry. I didn't know you were looking forward to it.
no subject
[ As if on cue, the wyvern manifests right beside Jinwoo, allowing the man to step on his back before he gives the mobile suit nearby a big thumbs up. That's Cagalli's signal to step right in. The portal's energy flickers brightly, but otherwise remains stable despite the gravity of their situation.
Jinwoo would have remained silent until she's through the gate, but then— ]
... But if it looks bad on the other side, you'll protect me, right?
[ A last minut tease. To lighten things up, because the tension is so thick he can practically cut through it with a blade. ]
no subject
Yes. [He may be joking, but she is absolutely serious in her reply.] That's why I told you to stay behind me. What did you think was going on?
[Clearly not an insistence upon ladies first at least.
Cagalli enters through the portal, shield and rifle at the ready. Once on the other side, she leaves enough room for Jinwoo and Kaisel to exit behind her while she gets her bearings. It's just as well, as a large piece of debris comes flying their way as the pair exit behind her and slams into her shield, ricocheting to the side when she moves the suit's arm to shove it away.]
Check behind us! [Just want to make sure nothing's coming from that side.]
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He lets out a soft huff, shaking his head. ]
Flowers, huh? Didn't think you'd want something that wilts so fast.
[ The joke is light, but there's an edge beneath it. His hands flex at his sides before he exhales through his nose, forcing himself to ease up. He had seen too many people on the verge of death— seen too many not come back at all. The fact that Ishmael is even here, talking, is something he shouldn't take for granted.
He studies her for a few more beats, and then steps further into the room. Once he's closer, he kneels beside her futon, one hand outstretched as shadows dance in his palm. They twist and turn until they manifest into the shape of a few different flowers: sunflowers, hyacinths, and orchids. ]
It's not much, but... they'll last longer than the real thing.
looks up
she slowly sits up, grunting as she does so, opening her mouth to hopefully segue into another topic, only to clam up as he literally conjures up flowers from the darkness. she stares, dumbfounded, her hand weakly reaching up to receive the makeshift bouque...
and he just had to say that, huh. no, even if he didn't say that, it's the fact that he gave her flowers -- a gesture that a certain someone used to shower her with when he was still around -- that made her feel all sorts of conflicted.
she lowers her head, her face overshadowed with her bangs. ]
Thank you. [ she says, her trembling voice almost inaudible. ] I know you mean well, but...
[ a tear drops onto the shadowy petal, then another. ]
Nothing really lasts forever.
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[ the figure, hopefully becoming less blurry by the second, is leaning over him, frowning intensely. a hand down on his shoulder, surprisingly gentle, trying to indicate that he should stay in place ]
[ the figure, naturally, is hunter, and in addition to his his very gentle touch, he looks concerned, wide-eyed. ]
You're safe. Stay in bed.
[ in contrast to his worried face, he sounds..... grumpy!!!! and cranky!!! ]
[ a little red bird flits over to jinwoo, chirping at him in birdsong -- it sounds comforting? hunter, meanwhile, adds: ]
Are you hurt?
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Which is just as well since they're already thrown right into the fray as soon as he passes through. ]
—we're clear!
[ Said through gritted teeth as he tries to keep his breathing even. The portal closes behind them and he directs Kaisel to fly higher to dodge the rest of the incoming debris. ]
What a welcoming party, huh. [ The weather is somehow worse than what it was back in Yamanashi, but it makes sense given that the imugi is right here. If he's holding onto Kaisel a bit tighter than usual, he tries not to make a big deal out of it. ] I'll follow your lead!
[ That'll give him time to stop the world from feeling like it's tilting rapidly to one side. ]
cannot believe he stepped on this landmine so early
His hands tighten into fists. Idiot. He can't believe the mistake he just made.
It's not too long ago when they spoke together for the first time, when she told him about how LILITH suffered important losses last year. He hadn't pressed her then, but now, watching her reaction, the pieces fit a little too well. Like a puzzle he wasn't meant to solve. Someone important to her (someone who used too give her flowers) is now gone.
Maybe he should let the flowers fade back into the shadows, but then he thinks— no. That's not it. He lets out a quiet breath, choosing his next words carefully. ]
... No. Nothing lasts forever.
[ He doesn't try to deny it. After all, he knows the heavy feeling that comes with loss. There's no point in offering empty reassurances. Instead, he reaches out, not quite touching her, just resting his hand nearby hers by the futon. He's giving her the space to decide if she wants to take it, but at least he lets her know he's there. ]
But that doesn't mean what's gone is forgotten. And it doesn't mean you have to carry it alone. [ His voice is soft and steady. ] Isn't that what you were trying to tell me before?
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(It's fine.)
He blinks a few more times, and the first thing he sees is the red bird chirping at him. ]
I— [ He shakes his head slowly, and then directs his gaze towards Hunter finally. ] I'm not hurt. I'm fine. I'm just... tired, that's all.
[ He thinks Cagalli might have caught him while he was in freefall, so that explains the lack of injuries, but his whole body feels heavy. Sluggish. It's even taking a lot of energy to sit upright so he'll stay lying down for a while. ]
How's it going outside?
[ Because it doesn't sound any good. ]
truly the protag of all time
she shifts in her futon, huddling her knees close to her chest and resting her chin atop them, tilting her head slightly to stare at some random spot on the ground. she also puts the flower down between the gap between jinwoo's hand and hers. it's too early for them to go straight to holding-hands phase rn 😔 ]
I know, I know. I just... didn't expect you to deliver, I guess.
[ she brings up her free hand to wipe away some stray tears in her eye, sniffling. ]
But I still feel bad. I was looking forward to that date, too. [ she lets out a hollow chuckle. ] Guess I'm going to take a raincheck on that till the city recovers.
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She fires a few shots from her beam rifle. Some are aimed for the monster while others hit larger chunks of rubble falling towards the ground, breaking them into smaller and hopefully safer pieces.]
Stay around the edges until we get a better idea of its abilities-- records only allow for so much! [Meaning it's the first real battle for them both, and data is never a real substitute for actual exposure. Piloting simulations from her early years taught her that the hard way.] And keep an eye out for civilian stragglers. They absolutely take priority over anything else!
ish deserves better
A soft exhale escapes him at her words, at the way she wipes her tears like it'll erase everything too. When she mentions the date, a wry smile tugs at the corner of his lips. ]
Raincheck it is. It's more important that you get enough rest and recover, anyway.
[ His tone remains even, but there's something lighter beneath it too. Not teasing, not exactly— just enough to let her know there's no pressure if she'd rather forget about it entirely too. ]
But if you need anything while you're cooped up in here, now's the time to tell me.
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[ hunter gives him a good up and down scan, as if not trusting jinwoo at his word. but when he sees there's no injuries, he relaxes a fraction. he takes one of his gloves off to reach out to feel jinwoo's forehead with the back of his hand, obviously looking for a fever of sorts. flapjack settles on jinwoo's arm and cants his head between the two of them, then twitters at hunter in a way that sounds... admonishing? ]
I'm not yelling at him! [ hunter responds defensively ] I'm just trying to make sure he doesn't push himself! What if Cagalli hadn't caught him?
[ another chirp and hunter's ears go red, then he stubbornly looks away from the bird and back at jinwoo's face, apparently not even responding to what flapjack last said to him ]
The kaiju's defeated, but it's still a mess. She left a rift behind. But nevermind that, just make sure you're resting.
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Still, Jinwoo knows that big doesn't mean slow. The moment Kaisel dips into a lower altitude, the imugi reacts, its head snapping toward them with unsettling precision. The way its eyes lock onto them tellls him everything he needs to know. It seems them as a threat. ]
I'll keep it distracted.
[ He calls out over the comms, his voice steady despite the storm brewing around them. Kaisel lets out a screech as he pulls up sharply, barely dodging a massive swipe of the imugi's tail as it smashes through a crumbling skyscraper.
More lightning surges across the imugi's body, and Jinwoo realizes a second too late that it's charging something. Shit. ]
Kaisel—!
[ The wyvern banks sharply as a beam of crackling energy erupts forward, barely grazing past them as it splits the air with raw power. The sheer force leaves a loud ringing in Jinwoo's ears, making him exhale sharply. But he doesn't stop moving. He directs Kaisel to loop back around, forcing the imugi to track him, to keep its attention locked on him rather than Cagalli. To bring it further away from where there are still people fleeing for their lives. ]
I'll leave it to you!
[ He calls out to her, cutting hard to the right to expose its flank. IF she was waiting for an opening, Jinwoo just handed her one on a silver platter. ]
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He watches the two interact, amused at how Hunter tries to defend himself in front of the bird. ]
Hah...
[ The kaiju is defeated. He'd missed most of the fight, then. That's not what he wanted to hear. ]
I think I've rested enough. How's everyone else? How about you?
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[ he mutters, after startling him. hunter himself is very jumpy to touch, so he gets it ]
[ but after that little mumbled apology, he folds his arms and attempts to look stern ]
[ flapjack is also watching jinwoo, and chirps something ]
Flap wants to know if you're having any lingering effects from using your power, or if everything feels the way it should.
[ apparently the bird thought to ask that before hunter. hunter, on the other hand, is a little bruised and battered, looks more exhausted than usual, but overall.... seems to be generally fine. also probably very hard to take seriously while he's trying to be stern (tm) ]
I'm fine. [ hunter insists stubbornly. ] Everyone's.... scattered. The base got destroyed in the explosion. But you better not try to run off and overexert yourself again.
[ his voice softens ] Just. Make sure you're okay first.
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... It's hard to say. I think the rift messed with me when I tried transporting people earlier.
[ That was something that came up during the tests, but he'd ignored it, thinking he'd just get used to the feeling. Of course, that's not what happened. The feeling grew worse, and that's why he woke up here instead of helping them win the fight.
He looks up at the mention of the base. ]
It was destroyed? [ He remembers that, vaguely. But it all feels like a blur. He exhales slowly. ] I missed out on a lot.
[ Rest isn't even on the forefront of his mind right now. ]
But I'm glad you're okay.
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Are they alright?
[ are they acting the way they should? ]
[ at the mention of the base, hunter sighs and starts to fidget with his hands, obviously a little uncomfortable ]
It was.... fast. We didn't defeat the imugi, she killed the hatchlings and herself so they'd all explode and destroy the base. You couldn't have stopped it even if you were awake, none of us could have.
[ just talking about this makes hunter's hands start to shake and tremble, for some mysterious reason, and he stashes them in his pockets ] Forget about me. It doesn't matter. Just take care of yourself, that's way more important.
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With a loud curse, Cagalli maneuvers the Akatsuki to avoid the energy beam as well, keeping an eye on Kaisel and Jinwoo to the best of her ability. That includes when she stops midair and readies her beam rifle and cannons, shooting several bright streams of firepower at the same spot on the imugi's hide. All she sees when firing ceases is a blackened scorch mark. Anything else is missed as she fires the engines once again to catch up to the duo.]
Circle back, you're too far from us!
[Her voice is stern, obviously used to giving orders that may or may not be followed anyway. Regardless, the ocular does send Jinwoo a subconscious message, words unneeded when one character can do the job just fine.]
🤬
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They're fine. They're just worried, I guess.
[ Just like Hunter and Flapjack. Jinwoo watches Hunter as he recalls what happened, picking up on his body language and the way he trembles. He reaches out to pat him on the head. ]
... Thanks for keeping me safe.
[ There's nothing else he could say to the rest of the stuff, considering it's all in the past, but at least this— he can at least tell Hunter that he did good, despite the outcome of the fight with the imugi. ]
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[ thankfully, it's shortlived, and instead he just looks at jinwoo in mild confusion at the gesture. guess who hasn't received affection in his life before synflux!! this guy!!! ]
I didn't do anything. [ he grumbles, because of course he does. tsun tsun tsun tsun tsun. flapjack gives hunter an entirely unimpressed look, which hunter ignores. but he softens: ]
But I'm glad you're safe. Stay that way.
[ he's awkward at showing his care, but it's there ]
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A sharp breath escapes him, something close to a chuckle despite the chaos around them. It's not the time to be amused, but hell, he kind of is. She's got a way of getting her point across, that's for sure. ]
Alright, alright. I hear you. I'm coming back.
[ —is what he says through the comms before he directs Kaisel into a sharp turn, angling away from the imugi's line of fire and bringing himself closer to her. The wyvern screeches, wings beating hard to stabilize after the maneuver, but Jinwoo keeps his movements precise. He doesn't need to make this harder on either of them. ]
So its hide is ridiculous. They weren't lying about that. You think we should give it another shot?
[ Or should they try to focus on regrouping with the rest of the Outsiders before another attempt? ]
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[As Jinwoo and Kaizel circle back, the Akatsuki moves to meet them but keeps enough distance to change course if needed, as his movements are sharper than before.
The imugi, however, notices his adjusted flight pattern and readies herself to intercept. A crackle of electricity snakes across her body in preparation, noticed almost too late by the pilot.]
Move!! [She all but screams at him, urgency overtaking every fiber of her being with previous grievances lost in the wind. Thrusters ignite, and the golden machine shoots forward to intercept the attack, lining up to meet the bolt of pure energy just in time to prevent it from outright frying her allies.
The area lights up as it strikes, blinding anyone looking their direction with a sudden glare of bright light accompanied by a loud snapping sound.]
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You watched over me, didn't you?
[ That's more than enough. ]
And I don't plan on letting this happen again, so you don't have to worry.
[ Who knew the rift would get to him too? It's annoying, so he has to figure out how to deal with that better next time. ]