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synflux2025-03-14 12:53 pm
synfluxmods) wrote in synflux2025-03-14 12:53 pm
DOWNTIME MINGLE #7
DOWNTIME MINGLE #7
▶ 001. WINNER'S CIRCLE.
Although the base has been destroyed, not all hope is lost. Many still view the defeat of the recent kaiju as a significant win, especially knowing how much more powerful it became. Considering the ominous timing of the rift as well, it seems like LILITH predicts everyone is a bit on edge, and as a result, when they come into the main hall that day they will see that it is actually decorated quite nicely. While it’s not a professional venue by any means, it certainly does have its own charms. It’s a step up from the usual pizza party, at least.
There will be plenty of fresh food prepared for everyone, and not a single questionable meat in sight. It’s either they’ve upped their lab meat game, or they’ve managed some success in their endeavors on duplicating some of the food processes from Transylvania. The one thing that hasn’t changed, however, is the bulletin board in which they’ve posted—
While no one can say where these trends and rumors begin, maybe it’s only natural that people’s eyes are drawn to those they consider strong. Or is it that everyone else isYOWAI weak in comparison? Whatever the catchphrases are, it seems the new thing on the streets of Neo Tokyo is the emerging trend of people either wearing sunglasses or blindfolds.
It seems to be some sort of fashion statement, but it may be doing more harm than good. The blindfolds are often tech visors that citizens wear to amplify the screens they see directly from their retinas, but it doesn’t mean that’s always the case. Some people even consider it a personal form of training for them to live and breathe with blindfolds on. Unsurprisingly, hoverboard accidents have increased by 24% and the city is looking for ways to address this new craze.
There’s a yearly event that’s rolled back into town and somehow they have their new mascot, MISTER ZILLA. It’s in the form of a certified cute and extra cuddly looking kaiju that is strikingly similar to one that people may see on base day-to-day. But that has to be a coincidence, right? Maybe it’s just one more thing that’s been released by a particularly loose-lipped researcher who's been pulling one too many all-nighters.
Maybe people in attendance will end up seeing him a lot more. He’s also given out in the form of a keychain to all attendees. Perhaps he will give GIBUBU a run for their money?
Speaking of kaiju and research, a very popular brand called CHALK-MATE has hit the shelves. Supposedly it’s a food shaped like a stick of chalk that once eaten increases one's overall ability to concentrate; it even claims to make people read a little faster. … Is that a myth? There’s only one way to find out what this little treat actually does.
The only thing is that it definitely tastes a bit like chalk, too. Oddly enough, the flavors come in just “DOCTOR” and “PHD.”
CHALK-MATE, however, seems like it’s especially popular amongst avid readers. Particularly of the romance genre, also known as NOVELTOK. The fans on these platforms have been especially into a new series based on a Goddess of Death who is in constant search of love, only to be met with horrible romanceable options that leaves every reader both salivating and scratching their head. Supposedly, it’s not a book appropriate for children…
A new alcoholic drink, GLITTER, has gotten popular in Neo Tokyo’s nightlife scene. The drink’s iridescent shades of purple, blue, and green have made it a hit despite its high price tag and the condition that needs to be met in order to request one: customers must first play a game of dice with the bartender. Should the customer roll a higher number than the bartender, they will take the order and make the drink; if they roll less than the bartender, they must forfeit the cost of the drink and pay the next seven rounds of drinks, even for people who aren’t in their party. High risks begets high rewards, as they say.
There will be plenty of fresh food prepared for everyone, and not a single questionable meat in sight. It’s either they’ve upped their lab meat game, or they’ve managed some success in their endeavors on duplicating some of the food processes from Transylvania. The one thing that hasn’t changed, however, is the bulletin board in which they’ve posted—
GOOD JOB:
MACARONS (K.O.)
GOJIRA (K.O.)
RUBBER DUCKY & QUEENOFKUR (600)
POKER & BAD DADDY (678)
While no one can say where these trends and rumors begin, maybe it’s only natural that people’s eyes are drawn to those they consider strong. Or is it that everyone else is
It seems to be some sort of fashion statement, but it may be doing more harm than good. The blindfolds are often tech visors that citizens wear to amplify the screens they see directly from their retinas, but it doesn’t mean that’s always the case. Some people even consider it a personal form of training for them to live and breathe with blindfolds on. Unsurprisingly, hoverboard accidents have increased by 24% and the city is looking for ways to address this new craze.
There’s a yearly event that’s rolled back into town and somehow they have their new mascot, MISTER ZILLA. It’s in the form of a certified cute and extra cuddly looking kaiju that is strikingly similar to one that people may see on base day-to-day. But that has to be a coincidence, right? Maybe it’s just one more thing that’s been released by a particularly loose-lipped researcher who's been pulling one too many all-nighters.
Maybe people in attendance will end up seeing him a lot more. He’s also given out in the form of a keychain to all attendees. Perhaps he will give GIBUBU a run for their money?
Speaking of kaiju and research, a very popular brand called CHALK-MATE has hit the shelves. Supposedly it’s a food shaped like a stick of chalk that once eaten increases one's overall ability to concentrate; it even claims to make people read a little faster. … Is that a myth? There’s only one way to find out what this little treat actually does.
The only thing is that it definitely tastes a bit like chalk, too. Oddly enough, the flavors come in just “DOCTOR” and “PHD.”
CHALK-MATE, however, seems like it’s especially popular amongst avid readers. Particularly of the romance genre, also known as NOVELTOK. The fans on these platforms have been especially into a new series based on a Goddess of Death who is in constant search of love, only to be met with horrible romanceable options that leaves every reader both salivating and scratching their head. Supposedly, it’s not a book appropriate for children…
A new alcoholic drink, GLITTER, has gotten popular in Neo Tokyo’s nightlife scene. The drink’s iridescent shades of purple, blue, and green have made it a hit despite its high price tag and the condition that needs to be met in order to request one: customers must first play a game of dice with the bartender. Should the customer roll a higher number than the bartender, they will take the order and make the drink; if they roll less than the bartender, they must forfeit the cost of the drink and pay the next seven rounds of drinks, even for people who aren’t in their party. High risks begets high rewards, as they say.
▶ 002. BASE-LESS EXPECTATIONS.
Fortunately, with the success of the last battle with the Imugi and Gigakame, many companies have come forth in support of a few rebuild projects. They state they are very interested in providing funding, granted, it’s not without placing their names down as part of the construction efforts. They’re especially interested in getting some sway down in Kyoto, as that would be a new place for them to not only pitch their businesses and potentially attract those pockets of civilization out there that they haven’t been able to connect with, but it’s a good cause as any in theory, right? We don’t talk about all that free real estate, either.
As such, Outsiders are being encouraged to submit their proposals on how to build up on the city of Kyoto and what attractions would lure the citizens to take on the city. While safety protocols are naturally being put into place, as with any new build, they are also open to any additional ideas to secure the perimeter, as well as to make this a more colorful and unique place amongst the wreckage that sweeps the abandoned areas outside the immediate cities.
The only thing is… bureaucracy strikes again. The forms must be filled out in a specific fashion, and Outsiders will be expected to go through a similar trial like when gaining clearance to travel. They will be required to sign documents, and even rushed to the temporary “city hall” in order to drop it off on the dot. They may even expect some people to warp back to Tokyo just to submit a page or two of a signed waiver.
With city plans still emerging, there are positions open for Outsiders to apply and run as local government. While the government of Neo Tokyo have already designated a mayor for the city, there are positions open for people to be in charge of other areas such as healthcare, food, energy, culture, justice, treasury, and infrastructure. LILITH is placing no restrictions on Outsiders who want to contribute their time and expertise to the new city as long as they continue to carry out their missions to defeat the kaiju. Those who wish to apply are free to do so at city hall, but they will need to rally votes and support from civilians and other Outsiders alike to be elected.
Speaking of trouble and real estate, while a lot of vacant land is available, Outsiders have been summoned to confirm all the plots of lands are free of kaiju before any real scoping can be done. Outsiders will be tasked to go out and survey the areas and stave off any large or mutated creatures that may exist in the expanse of wilderness that borders the area around Kyoto. For anyone interested in assisting with the scoping efforts, they will be encouraged to travel in pairs. The permanent rift that’s opened in Tokyo has been making many strange waves all across the country. Kaiju have been acting far more erratically, almost as if they can feel the pulses from this rift, regardless of the distance. Or perhaps, it’s all connected somehow? LILITH researchers think it’s better to remain on-guard because of this, especially when traveling through uncharted territory.
Outsiders are also welcome to explore the region. They will find several old temples that may appear dilapidated, but very much recognizable all the same. Such as the Todai-ji Daibutsuden in the neighboring Nara, or even closer sights like the string of tori that line the Fushimi Inari Shrine. There is even a setting in the oculars in which a general tour guide audio can be heard. However, Synthia is still on the fritz and there is no telling what she says is completely accurate. She also can’t control her language functions, volumes, or the fact that she may also be linking random people’s calls and text messages to one another.
There’s no way that negatively impacts any travel plans, right?
(Note: Please fill out the thread below and submit ideas for buildings and businesses in Kyoto! If players wish to have their characters take a role in managing the city, you are free to coordinate this with other players with the same goals for their characters (or handwave it if your character will be taking a smaller role). Mods will not be choosing any characters officially. )
As such, Outsiders are being encouraged to submit their proposals on how to build up on the city of Kyoto and what attractions would lure the citizens to take on the city. While safety protocols are naturally being put into place, as with any new build, they are also open to any additional ideas to secure the perimeter, as well as to make this a more colorful and unique place amongst the wreckage that sweeps the abandoned areas outside the immediate cities.
The only thing is… bureaucracy strikes again. The forms must be filled out in a specific fashion, and Outsiders will be expected to go through a similar trial like when gaining clearance to travel. They will be required to sign documents, and even rushed to the temporary “city hall” in order to drop it off on the dot. They may even expect some people to warp back to Tokyo just to submit a page or two of a signed waiver.
With city plans still emerging, there are positions open for Outsiders to apply and run as local government. While the government of Neo Tokyo have already designated a mayor for the city, there are positions open for people to be in charge of other areas such as healthcare, food, energy, culture, justice, treasury, and infrastructure. LILITH is placing no restrictions on Outsiders who want to contribute their time and expertise to the new city as long as they continue to carry out their missions to defeat the kaiju. Those who wish to apply are free to do so at city hall, but they will need to rally votes and support from civilians and other Outsiders alike to be elected.
Speaking of trouble and real estate, while a lot of vacant land is available, Outsiders have been summoned to confirm all the plots of lands are free of kaiju before any real scoping can be done. Outsiders will be tasked to go out and survey the areas and stave off any large or mutated creatures that may exist in the expanse of wilderness that borders the area around Kyoto. For anyone interested in assisting with the scoping efforts, they will be encouraged to travel in pairs. The permanent rift that’s opened in Tokyo has been making many strange waves all across the country. Kaiju have been acting far more erratically, almost as if they can feel the pulses from this rift, regardless of the distance. Or perhaps, it’s all connected somehow? LILITH researchers think it’s better to remain on-guard because of this, especially when traveling through uncharted territory.
Outsiders are also welcome to explore the region. They will find several old temples that may appear dilapidated, but very much recognizable all the same. Such as the Todai-ji Daibutsuden in the neighboring Nara, or even closer sights like the string of tori that line the Fushimi Inari Shrine. There is even a setting in the oculars in which a general tour guide audio can be heard. However, Synthia is still on the fritz and there is no telling what she says is completely accurate. She also can’t control her language functions, volumes, or the fact that she may also be linking random people’s calls and text messages to one another.
There’s no way that negatively impacts any travel plans, right?
(Note: Please fill out the thread below and submit ideas for buildings and businesses in Kyoto! If players wish to have their characters take a role in managing the city, you are free to coordinate this with other players with the same goals for their characters (or handwave it if your character will be taking a smaller role). Mods will not be choosing any characters officially. )
▶ 003. KAIJUCON.
This is the yearly event everyone has been looking forward to— KAIJUCON is here. This event not only acts as a large research symposium for those who work in kaiju-related research fields, it’s also a place where the most enthusiastic members of the kaiju community come together to share their mutual fascination with the creatures. The event makes it clear that this is in no way meant in any support of the kaiju or the devastation that’s hit humanity, but of coming to be a better understanding of them. Or that was its original purpose.
Now it’s become a larger, more commercialized event where vendors from all over come to pitch their safety gear, offer classes in case of a city-wide emergency, and even have several large and popular exhibitions for kaiju. As much as people may fear kaiju, it seems that kaiju themselves as a concept have been popular for decades before even the first rift opened.
As a result, there are sections of KAIJUCON for the most… zealous kaiju researchers in which they can enter virtual reality scapes and pretend to be kaiju. This form of live action roleplaying has become wildly popular in the city, and has become a hobby to relieve stress for some.
On the flip side, it seems this also has opened up a whole group of people who come up with their own KAIJUSONAS and who attend the event dressed up as their idealized version of kaiju. Fortunately, as LILITH does have its fair share of research and information to trade, it’s the perfect opportunity to grab additional funds to fix up the areas of the base … and of course, how could they not ask the Outsiders to join in?
Instead of the usual team building exercises, they will be expected to help at various booths at KAIJUCON. Whether these are panels in which they teach and share all the intimate details of kaiju anatomy, or where they join in the highly coveted title of BEST KAIJUSONA.
As Outsiders within LILITH, all characters will be approached to speak at panels. Characters previously deemed as HEAVY HITTERS or characters who have dealt a K.O. to a kaiju will be particularly popular at the convention, with fans flocking to them with requests for pictures and autographs. While at panels, a Q&A session will often be held, and Outsiders may have to deal with questions ranging from sensible to ... uncomfortable.
Once their shift is over, they’re more than welcome to take a look around!
(Note: You are all free to presume everything you’d expect at a convention to be there! Including, but not limited to, merchandise, snack carts, panels, and more! Outsiders with inhuman forms do not need to wear their cloaking devices. As a note, Outsiders are public figures known by their alter egos/usernames. However, the fact that they are from a different dimension remains classified information to the public. )
Now it’s become a larger, more commercialized event where vendors from all over come to pitch their safety gear, offer classes in case of a city-wide emergency, and even have several large and popular exhibitions for kaiju. As much as people may fear kaiju, it seems that kaiju themselves as a concept have been popular for decades before even the first rift opened.
As a result, there are sections of KAIJUCON for the most… zealous kaiju researchers in which they can enter virtual reality scapes and pretend to be kaiju. This form of live action roleplaying has become wildly popular in the city, and has become a hobby to relieve stress for some.
On the flip side, it seems this also has opened up a whole group of people who come up with their own KAIJUSONAS and who attend the event dressed up as their idealized version of kaiju. Fortunately, as LILITH does have its fair share of research and information to trade, it’s the perfect opportunity to grab additional funds to fix up the areas of the base … and of course, how could they not ask the Outsiders to join in?
Instead of the usual team building exercises, they will be expected to help at various booths at KAIJUCON. Whether these are panels in which they teach and share all the intimate details of kaiju anatomy, or where they join in the highly coveted title of BEST KAIJUSONA.
As Outsiders within LILITH, all characters will be approached to speak at panels. Characters previously deemed as HEAVY HITTERS or characters who have dealt a K.O. to a kaiju will be particularly popular at the convention, with fans flocking to them with requests for pictures and autographs. While at panels, a Q&A session will often be held, and Outsiders may have to deal with questions ranging from sensible to ... uncomfortable.
Once their shift is over, they’re more than welcome to take a look around!
(Note: You are all free to presume everything you’d expect at a convention to be there! Including, but not limited to, merchandise, snack carts, panels, and more! Outsiders with inhuman forms do not need to wear their cloaking devices. As a note, Outsiders are public figures known by their alter egos/usernames. However, the fact that they are from a different dimension remains classified information to the public. )
▶ 004. CROSSED WIRES.
While rebuilding of both the Tokyo Base and Kyoto are coming along, certain other departments seem to be struggling. SYNTHIA in particular is still broken, and try as the LILITH engineers might, repairs are slow going.
While SYNTHIA is down, there are all sorts of communication errors:
If asked, researchers will apologize for the errors and suggest that Outsiders meet in person to discuss any important topics. There's no better way to grow relationships than to spend time in person after all, right? Towards the end of the month, the errors will slow until they are finally fixed.
(Note: Feel free to use this as a general text glitch event in either your top levels for this event or in inboxes and individual player logs! We've listed out some suggestions of what characters might experience but feel free to come up with your own fun ideas as long as they aren't gamebreaking.)
While SYNTHIA is down, there are all sorts of communication errors:
- Messages being sent to the wrong recipient, or to the base at large
- Thoughts transcribing themselves as texts and being sent without approval
- Text messages glitching during the sending process and sending as illegible symbols and strings of letters
- Text messages never sending, or sending dozens of times repeatedly
- SYNTHIA generating inaccurate information about Outsiders and sending them during the numerous reboot processes (think Google AI summaries)
- Blocked users suddenly becoming unblocked, and best of friends suddenly blocking each other
If asked, researchers will apologize for the errors and suggest that Outsiders meet in person to discuss any important topics. There's no better way to grow relationships than to spend time in person after all, right? Towards the end of the month, the errors will slow until they are finally fixed.
(Note: Feel free to use this as a general text glitch event in either your top levels for this event or in inboxes and individual player logs! We've listed out some suggestions of what characters might experience but feel free to come up with your own fun ideas as long as they aren't gamebreaking.)
▶ 005. AFTERWORD.
Welcome to our fourth downtime mingle!
As stated in the prompt itself, players are welcome to suggest buildings and business to be found in Kyoto by replying to the header below. Please submit all suggestions by March 31.
The texting glitches will last to the end of the month, at which point SYNTHIA will be repaired and all systems will go back to normal.
All tags on this log are worth 2 points.
As stated in the prompt itself, players are welcome to suggest buildings and business to be found in Kyoto by replying to the header below. Please submit all suggestions by March 31.
The texting glitches will last to the end of the month, at which point SYNTHIA will be repaired and all systems will go back to normal.
All tags on this log are worth 2 points.
EVENT BREAKDOWN/RECAP (CLICK TO EXPAND)
1. WINNER'S CIRCLE: The heavy hitters/KO winners of the last kaiju fight receive their sponsorships, including cute plushies, stylish sunglasses and blindfolds, and edible chalk enhancements among other things.
2. BASE-LESS ACCUSATIONS: ICly, Outsiders are tasked with assisting in rebuilding projects across Kyoto, which include scoping out land, suggesting what new businesses and buildings to construct, and general exploration. OOCly, players are welcome to suggest new businesses and buildings to add to the Kyoto area.
3. KAIJUCON: The annual convention centered around kaiju-related research and inventions. Outsiders can find all sorts of kaiju-related merchandise and gear for sale, as well dress up and meet other kaiju enthusiasts.
4. CROSSED WIRES: With SYNTHIA still broken, communications within LILITH are breaking down. Outsiders will experience a string of troubles when trying to message others. This will be fixed by the end of the month.
no subject
if you have some.
[kinda surprised denji found a selection. hopefully he's not picking random flowers around kyoto and dropping them in hot water to steep. might not bother a half-devil's eternally-repairing immune system, but bakugo certainly doesn't want poisonous flowers thrown into his tea, thank you! but if he has found some, that's curious. what kind of people here would even be selling fancy crap like that? ... oh wait, the monks. they probably have flower tea all the fucking time. and know which one's good for you.
bakugo's lying on the futon when denji finally opens the door, turning his head with a soft husk of material against his hair to look at the other boy. and with one little flourish, a bag's presented. victoriously claimed successful by a half-devil teahound. it even has a logo on it. was that resourced by the underground market or are restaurant branches from neo tokyo already popping up.]
Damn, you got the entire set. Where'd you find it? [fancy as a fuck. he even has a glass teapot, for watching the flowers "bloom" underwater as it steeps. denji's either been hunting this thing down for a while or got lucky with his browsing. a very specific decision on what to do tonight after all...
bakugo sits up on the bed and stretches his arms overhead, pulling one at the elbow with the other hooked around it. not gonna ask the price. that's denji's business.] Coulda saved it for leftovers tomorrow.
[he's a teenager; he's eaten cold pizza.]
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I have my resources. [ he teased as he hanged his jacket neatly. his belt buckle clinked, followed by the whisper of fabric as he stepped out of his pants, planning to get himself settled for the night. his toes curling against the cool wooden floor, savoring the transition from the rigid formality of the day to the softness of home. reaching for the small cabinet in the corner of their room, he pulled on a worn cotton t-shirt, its fabric soft and familiar against his skin. he then stepped into a pair of loose sweatpants, the waistband snug. barefoot, he padded toward the table, running a hand through his hair as he contemplated whether he should've gotten the pizza as an extra treat on the side, but nah. he shakes his head. ] The tea was a better option for sure.
[ the kettle is plugged, filled with fresh water and switched on. as they wait for the water to boil, denji reached for the bag again, lifting it up and taking its contents out, setting them on the table carefully, one by one. he then, pulled out the artiscally hand-tied tea ball out, turning to face bakugou and allowing him a closer look. ] Not sure about the flavor, though. Didn't ask ...
[ he wasn't in the right mindset to be too picky, more anxious to gather everything and rush back. after all, he's not planning for them to just enjoy the flavors of this rich tea; it's more of a companion as they find a new pace to what he assumed was an unfinished conversation. denji watched over the other before he asked. ] ... do you wanna stay in bed?
no subject
What a mysterious guy. [huffed through a little smile. tempting to lie back on the futon and splay out in rest, ready for a snooze to sleep. yet far more interesting actions work across the room, drawing his eyes. a hand on his shirt, fingers gripping the hem of his pants, one after another stripping material off a body he's so familiar with. from his hip bones appearing beneath the descent of his pants to the gentle slap of his ripcord on his chest. bakugou takes in each detail all over again, watching his boyfriend strip out of more casual working clothes and into something better for night lounge. finally pushing himself up, he tucks a foot beneath him, pushes up, and steps forward with the second to climb to his feet. balance, power, and intent carry him up soon towards the table.]
Nah, I'm getting up. [regarding that inquiry about staying in bed. he stops beside the table as denji begins emptying the bag. tea, pot, tea ball, some spices, other little sundries to make the experience even fancier. bakugou accepts the tea ball in his hand, red eyes wandering over its orbital shape. he won't touch it with his fingers, wanting it to remain pure as possible, but as always, these little things are pretty intricate.] It's not a caffeinated brew.
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shifting a bit, he exhaled softly, allowing himself a moment to collect himself before speaking. ] So ... are you okay? [ a simple question to start the conversation, then again - he wouldn't want to corner his boyfriend with it, as if shining the spotlight on him to take the lead. no, it was more of denji trying to ease into it instead of spitting out too many confessions in one go. he glanced in his direction, meeting his gaze, his own expression softening a bit in a silent reassurance, loving and warm. there are no doubts, but a touch of uncertainty on how he should approach this moving ahead. which is why he wanted to be honest about it, and maybe they can figure out the best way to do this. sharing more about each other. everything about denji is full of gross fuckery, and while bakugou didn't need to know every single detail, it didn't feel right for others to know while he stays oblivious. ]
... I just want to apologize again. Seriously, I feel like shit. You're the last person I ever want to upset.
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then again... maybe denji's nothing more than happy to watch a pretty little flower bloom in hot water through a glass teapot.
sometimes, it's the little things in life which bring the most happiness. and give rest to the soul. bakugou sits quietly at the table across from the man he loves, watching a pretty little flower bloom in hot water through a glass teapot. resting.]
Aa. I should be the one asking you that. [mostly because bakugou still believes he's the one responsible for putting doubt in his boyfriend's mind, the one who made denji question whether or not he was good enough for his own boyfriend. he's already had time to think and mull over what happened and determine the starting path of where he wants to go from here. how to improve. what to do and not to do. not something he can tell denji because they exist in his chest, and have to be ready whenever the situation calls for them next time. bakugou meets his eyes without hesitation or distraction, expression calm with softer brows and resting lips.
denji should know this about the hero already; nothing gets in bakugou's way for long.]
Denji. Don't apologize. You didn't do anything wrong. And I'm not upset.
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he stares, silent. he can sense a mini, unspoken misunderstanding lingering between them, especially if the hero still believes he was the reason for any doubts. bakugou was upset, or a bit mad, and now he says he's no longer feeling that way. perhaps the little break between their conversation offers some clarity, a new perspective. that was the case for denji, but it wouldn't downgrade his qualms. right, the half-devil will not dictate how his boyfriend should feel, but what he can do is express himself a bit better. which is not easy. it's strange that denji is so willing, like - he wants to do it. he wants to be able to express himself in an intelligent way. he wants to learn how to keep it brief, gentle on the heart, and easier to accept, only to find himself struggling along the way. ]
I find it super easy to be the one listening rather than talking, if I'm honest. I want to know everything about you. Nothing is too much. I can hear you out for hours without getting bored. Just saying. I just don't know ... how to talk about myself.
[ he's not rejecting the idea, and it's clear from the tone of his voice, the acceptance in it. he will find a way. denji's eyes softened as they traced the gentle curve of his lover's face, the way the dim light brushed against his skin. a modest kind of warmth swelled in his chest, slow and heavy. ]
In the end, we both wanted to protect each other in our own way ...
no subject
now, mind you, when it comes to denji, "frivolous" is not the same thing as stupid. most things others would be growled or glared at for throwing money away on frivolous trinkets or events get a pass with denji, because those are things he's never experienced before. first-time wonders and explorations. how the hell can bakugou turn him down from that? he wants to see denji smile and enjoy himself first, then later they can talk about how it's better not to blow his cash on the most expensive milkshake.
misunderstanding? maybe. bakugou doesn't think there's one, but he's not gonna tell denji what to think. of course he believes he was the reason for his boyfriend's doubt, in this case. going to someone else for comfort he doesn't go to his boyfriend for would make any decent person doubt! even if bakugou's heart was in the right place for doing so, the result screwed up hard. if anyone had a reason to be mad over what happened, it was denji. but the half-devil should know more than most bakugou's anger is intense and explosive, but also rather quick to pass. leaving him brooding in the smolders of his rage until he figures out what he wants to do and how to move forward to improve. this is one of those times. he had a quiet period to reflect on what was said, what he'd done, and determine a few ideas for future endeavors.]
Hn. We're kind of alike in that way, though I don't like talking about my weaknesses. [denji says he doesn't know how, and bakugou believes him, but conversely, the other blonde simply doesn't want to. doesn't want to show up complaining or griping or hissing or groaning about his sufferings and pains to someone he promised never to be a burden to. denji says he wants to know everything about him and bakugou feels his instincts slamming down so many fucking walls. on certain areas. plenty of other areas are a firework-lit showroom of all things bakugou katsuki, glowing with pride and bragging. (admission limited. please be gone in a few minutes or you'll be forcefully removed.)
how does he change his outlook to include denji into those struggles of his life?] Aa... but you're not someone I need to protect from everything. I thought I was saving you from pain by not letting you see my struggles. I should've trusted you more to help me when I'm not strong enough.
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It will still hurt, Katsuki. [ -to see someone he loves going through a hard time, lost on what they should do next, watching their spark fade as they slowly grow uneasy under their own skin. he wouldn't know how bakugou copes when he's in that mentality. will he end up dealing with grief? or will it come out as raw anger? will bakugou find comfort in hearing advice, or will he simply yearn for silent solace? will he feel comforted or more ashamed? they don't know how it will go, but denji can't promise him that it will be easy. he won't promise him it wouldn't hurt like hell to see his boyfriend like this. one thing for sure: he's no damn burden. denji will drop everything and rush to his side because he wants to. that being said- ] But, it will also feel good to be there for you. You know? Maybe I won't have the right answer, and maybe I won't be able to take all the pain away, but I want to try. I want to be by your side no matter what.
[ he can see the resolve behind bakugou's eyes, and he knew next time will be different, for both of them. it might be a good idea to start fresh. there is no reason to dig into conversations that have already been dealt with unless they are still a prisisting concern. denji thought about it himself and wondered if there was anything he should share. well, there is a lot, and they are fated to shadow him for a long time. are they causing him distress at this very instant? no. all his focus is on bakugou. however, as promised, if they return to poison his conscience, he won't be seeking an answer with a stranger again, hiding behind the excuse that if they were sickened by him, it wouldn't matter. he will have to take a leap of faith and belief bakugou would ... understand.
he lowers his gaze, watching the transformation in the water, how the petals stretch open in a slow dance, revealing a bloom at the heart of the infusion. a burst of color emerged, delicate petals swaying with the currents, expanding inch by inch into something whole. hues of amber and gold tinged the water, deepening with every passing second. ] .... aaaand I decided to read a book.
[ relationship 101: a beginners guide for people with traumas. ]
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he can't do such a thing to denji. he shouldn't. as difficult as it will be to unlearn his own instinctive pride and self reliance in the area. not every time, his boyfriend isn't demanding each instance, but... more than he has. to know bakugou can and will rely on him when he struggles. in reality, it's not so much to ask after all.] Hn. Aa. When you're with me, I always feel better. Even if I don't say it. You've been like that for so long now.
[maybe he took that for granted. denji makes him feel stronger when weakness clings to him. he numbs the pain and weight when he's under burden and hurting. he has to remember going forward. his boyfriend has his own strength, a tender, warm, gentle, and strong heart bakugou can rely on to support him when he needs it. no matter what comes after them or what trials they struggle with, together they're able to handle anything. it's been that say since soon after they came here.
bakugou watches the flower bloom underwater, finding his mind taking a few stupid (sappy) analogies in his mind of all the ways such a simple little beautiful thing can align with what he and denji are dealing with now. from petals to colors to event as water diffuses with a special flavor. he's snapped out of his thoughts by a sudden declaration, red eyes glancing upward to his boyfriend's expression.] A book?
[real random topic change there, denji.]
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the words sank in like a weightless kind of warmth, one that spread from the center of his chest, curling around his ribs, coiling up his throat, leaving him fumbling for an answer and failing. bakugou had said it so simply. so effortlessly. as if he hadn’t just reached inside him, taken the mess of insecurities and quiet fears denji never thought were lingering inside of him, and crushed them over with a touch as light as a whisper. it's an ugly suspicion, one that is buried so deep even the half-devil wasn't aware of, only recognizing its presence when his reaction took him back. and then— it makes sense why he didn't feel as confident recently, especially after his last trip back home. denji had to be more kind to himself, as no one is expected to be 'okay' after everything he's been through, and while it had nothing to do with bakugou, it surely was the perfect breeding ground to center all that negativity towards the person who's been loving him the most. unfairly so.
the truth is, no matter how much affection someone brings into your life, they can’t fix what they can't reach. denji has to be willing to tear down the walls, to face the open wounds, to let bakugou in. 'you don't deserve it' - that voice, on repeat, continuously, until he, subconsciously, started to believe it. however, all bakugou had to say was a few words, offering denji a sense of ease he didn't know he desperately craved.
his cheeks burned before he could stop it. denji lowered his head; his pulse thrummed in his ears, faster than it had any right to. he wanted to say something, anything, but his tongue felt clumsy in his mouth, and all the words that came to mind seemed so small compared to what was swelling in his chest. so, he nodded in acknowledgment. ah, the book. he meets bakugou's eyes again, getting more flustered but his tone is steady. ]
You said getting relationship advice from the movies is not a good idea, right? One of the options is to read a book. So, I'm getting a book. [ as boring as it will be, he will do it if it's the right step into a healthier relationship. finally, he picked up the pot, tilted it forward, and watched as a thin stream poured into the waiting cup on bakugou's side. the aroma filled up the space between them, welcoming a feel of coziness into their exchange. ] I'm trying the, uh, audio books thing? Maybe it's a lot easier this way ...
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you know, it's kind of cute when denji gets flustered. head dipping, lashes lowering over his eyes, rouge blooming on his face and even kissing the curve of his ears. but he won't mention it, no this time, when the conversation is too serious for a bit of flirting out of nowhere. no words needed; as if denji's feelings radiate off his body with the same heat as his flushed expression. bakugo rests his elbow on the table, jaw settling in his hand as his posture shifts to something more casual.]
I see. Did you search the library or did someone give it to you? [look, he's glad denji's gonna go for something a bit more trustworthy than romantic movies, which give stupid ideas like a few flowers and some kisses are enough to make everything dream perfect once more. books take a more concrete and serious path, able to spend more effort and time on the subject than a happy-feeling movie would bother with. bakugo takes a silent breath, sampling the aroma drifting from his glass cup. not bad.] Oh yeah, you got those earbuds/headphones several months ago.
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I'm not talking about this with anyone ... it's none of their business.[ if bakugou wants to have some secret sessions with his buddies, it's his choice. the half-devil will not make any demands, but it's one of those things where ignorance is bliss. just don't tell him, babe. ] I did my own research. Found an online version, though. Not for free, but that's fine. I'll start tomorrow ...
[ he fills his own glass next before gently placing the pot down. he then paused, letting the scent rise to meet him— earthy, floral, a hint of something sweet lingering in the air. his shoulders slackened, hoping the tension of the day had begun to loosen a bit. with a lazy breath, he lifted the cup, letting the heat brush against his lips, noting it was a bit too warm for a taste. so, he waits a bit, relishing the aroma. ] I'll work super hard. It doesn't mean I'll stop watching the movies, though. That's my hobby. Totally innocent one. I'll just ... [ uh, not think of bakugou when a romantic scene comes up? no longer use the sappy gestures? hmm. ] ... be more responsible.
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Aa. But some people are nosy assholes. [and a number of them would do so out of friendship and caring. even uraraka one time tried to pick at the combustive relationship between midoriya and bakugo, and almost got her head bitten off for it. people who care like to help, even if it means sticking their neck into places it shouldn't be. business that's not theirs. the only reason bakugo thinks it might be "normal" to talk about your relationship problems is because, well... to a lot of people, it is normal. you can't go to the person you're angry with to ask for advice on how to handle said angry person!
oy, he's not having "secret sessions" with anyone. stop that thought train. derail it. hit a fucking cartoon not!tunnel.]
Denji. You know I'm dating you because you're you. Not because I think you need to be someone else. [as much as he appreciates his boyfriend trying for some kind of self-help book, it comes with a nagging ugly feeling denji thinks he's not good enough for bakugo as he is. improving yourself is fine, if it's for the right reason. and bakugo's pretty hard on himself when it comes to wanting to be better, striving to be stronger, smarter, more capable... it's different in a relationship, isn't it? dating isn't a battle where you pump irons to punch harder.]
Tch, I never said I wanted you to stop watching them. [on the one hand, he's glad denji's straight up refusing to change something he likes. on the other hand... did he think bakugo was going to tell him to stop watching movies?]
Responsible?
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so, no. no relationship woes with aki. only relationship yays.
he offers his boyfriend a small smile, unsure what triggered such a remark, but he decided to reassure him anyway. ] I know you're not that type, Katsuki. [ a change will happen, whether it's mild or not, but denji will always be denji. he then nods towards their drinks, reminding the other boy it's time to enjoy the flavor before they lose the warmth. with that, he brings it close for a taste, a slow sip followed by a hearty sigh. not too earthy, not too sweet. just perfect. ] True. I just wanted to let you know that we will still enjoy those romantic movies together. Responsible as in ... [ he paused, taking a moment to genuinely consider it, think over what went wrong today; going over the question that started it all. in the end, he had to be honest. ] ... not sure yet. Still trying to figure it out. [ which is a bit frustrating, even when denji didn't want to stress too much about it. they didn't need to have all the answers tonight, right?
on a lighter note, he peers over bakugou's cup. ] ... do you like it?
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though, there is some similarity between denji not wanting to give any woes to aki, and bakugou not wanting to give any woes to denji. an urge to protect them from their burdens.]
Alright. [he only wanted to make sure. denji didn't need to reinvent himself for bakugou. part of him bristles at the idea of his boyfriend learning about relationships from someone else, even in book form. yet he's not a damn relationship expert and can't advise him on that either! there've been a few times bakugou felt a surge in his chest, wanting to call his dad and ask him "WTF?!" about a struggle with his boyfriend. after all, his parents were really the only "romantic" relationship he knew in his life he'd feel remotely comfortable asking something about it of them.
he rests the cup to his lips, taking the flavor and scent in. a good balance between the tastes and aroma curling from its body. another click of his tongue when denji not only affirms the continued romantic movies, but he's gonna be watching them too. ugh, never gonna be his favorite pastime.] I trust you.
[with whatever he ends up learning.] Aa. It's good. The flavors balance each other well.
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denji doesn't seek perfection from him, nor is he demanding that bakugou rise up to certain expectations aside from them enjoying each other. truth is, it didn't start this way. the start of their affair was different; it's something denji thinks about from time to time, even when he has already disregarded the selfish idea of desiring to be saved by the young hero. it was a cruel burden to throw on anyone, and the half-devil humored it before his feelings blossomed into pure affection. it was in those early months when he was amazed by the idea of a world where heroes work day and night to rescue others in need, and denji wanted so badly to make it that boy's obligation to fix him. maybe if his feelings didn't progress into falling in love, he would've still tormented bakugou to do more, to make the pain go away, but that all changed. because that was fucking cruel. borderline sinister. denji will always be ashamed for how it started, yet proud of his growth. what he can do now is ... accept his hand when he offers, lean on him when it gets too hard, share a meal, go to work, talk about the upcoming mission, fight side by side, go out on dates, and enjoy their intimacy. and sometimes that's enough. it's enough, isn't it?
denji sat with his hands clasped over his glass, elbows resting against the surface of the table between them, silently pondering if there was something he’d forgotten to say. his brows relaxed, a shadow of thought passing over his face. had he covered it all? his mind sifted through their words, turning them over, checking for gaps, but all he found were echoes of what had already been said. anything more would feel like he might overwhelm the other boy. a quiet resolve settled over him, and he returned to his drink. 'I trust you.' ah, he didn't even trust himself to learn the art of human communications, even after reading a damn book. where to even begin? ]
I'm glad you like it. It's pretty to look at, too. [ at least the tea choice was a win, denji will take that. ] It's not too strong, so it won't mess with your sleep.
[ he's hoping this little heart-to-heart can kill off any opportunity of overthinking today's events when they go to bed, and they can rest better. it was a bit heavy on his heart, but he likes to believe this was something they had to address, and maybe it was not a bad thing, despite the discomfort it brought along. maybe it had to happen. ]
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nothing more to say about their discussion. wasn't even an argument. two young men talking about their feelings and revealing what went wrong while determining to improve. no reason to blame or point fingers. bakugou lifts his cup to his lips again, liquid warming his skin before sliding over his tongue. his expression eases from its usual intense angles, softening to a more casual focus. what matters now is making sure he doesn't make the same mistakes going forward. denji's worth the effort to improve, to become a better boyfriend for the man he loves.]
You know what pressing flowers is? [might be a hobby denji could take up if he likes pretty flowers and wants to make them last. he could even use this one. though bakugou doesn't know if tea-soaked flowers can be pressed...] Hmph, if it was, you'd be the one paying for it.
[right, like denji would be against spending a long wakeful night with him. hardly a threat. bakugou's going to sleep quickly when they hit the sack. like any sort of training, you can't improve something without breaking it in some way firs.]