[ Jinwoo's witnessed quite a few glitches on the courtesy of the style upgrade chip and their plugsits, but it's pretty much his first time experiencing it himself. Well, at least he got to see a few amused faces while he was delivering burgers and sushi throughout the day.
He might be off work now, but there's no rest for the glitches—he's still donning the butler outfit when he enters the kitchen in the main base. Making pancakes for Lapis seems like a very silly idea considering his current appearance, but maybe Jinwoo wants to see her expression when a butler knocks at her door with a plate of pancakes.
Well, except this isn't how it goes. He's in the middle of decorating the pancakes when he notices no one else than Lapis step into the kitchen. ]
Oh, hi. Actually, I'm preparing a snack for you, Milady.
[ At this point, Lapis has started to get used to wardrobe malfunctions - and at the very least, she's not alone in suffering in this. Though some people seem to be taking it better than others, but this isn't the worst outfit she's ever worn. It's actually kind of cute... Even with the cat ears.
But this outfit does give her an idea, and it's an idea that draws her into the kitchen. And while seeing someone else there isn't too surprising, the fact it's Jinwoo... in a butler outfit... is enough to make her pause.
... Hmm. She's starting to understand why he gets so flustered when she's put in certain outfits. Especially when he calls her that, and she can feel how her cheeks quickly heat up in response. ]
Hi... Y-you're really committing to the part, huh. [ Just gonna quickly clear her throat, gotta get her composure back. ]
[ His eyes dart to Lapis and back to the plate where he's been decorating the pancakes. That maid outfit might really be the end of him. ]
Fluffy pancakes, Milady's favorite. And what are you doing here?
[ Maybe it's because of the system, but he'd rather master a few recipes before moving to other ones. Which basically means that he's making pancakes, spaghetti, and fried chicken all the time. It's tempting to branch out a little, though. ]
At least it's gone glitch at the time.
[ Is he picturing Lapis as a school bunnygirl maid? Perhaps... ]
And that gets her to chuckle bashfully, stepping closer so that she can better take a look. The cat ears seem to be linked to her somehow, as there's a moment where they perk up in interest. ]
From the looks of it I was plotting the same thing. I would've liked to have seen your face when I knocked on your door and called you "Master."
[ Though there's nothing to say she won't do that later. Just to kill him that little bit more.
And she considers that for a moment, humming as she considers this... What if every glitch at once... ]
I think you might explode if it was all those glitches at once.
[ Another similarity to the pile doesn't sound so bad to Lapis - it's nice, spending time with someone who is like her in some ways. Including dumb ideas like this. ]
Definitely, huh. I'll remember that.
[ Lapis what do you mean -
But those little cat ears perk up again once more, head canting with a little smile. ]
I'll take an escort, along with you spending some time with me. [ Maybe her own surprise can happen around dinner...
Though she pauses for a moment before - ] I rather like how you look in that outfit, too.
I'll make your every single wish come true today, Milady.
[ Maybe if he was talking to someone else, he'd regret making such a bold offer, but since it's Lapis, he's more than pleased to spoil her a little. After finishing up decorating the pancakes, Jinwoo takes the plate in one hand while offering his other arm for Lapis to hold onto. ]
I'm not sure if I could pull off something as formal everyday, though.
[ Glitching out ended as abruptly as it started—Jinwoo had no idea how much time had passed, and he didn't really have the mental capacity to think about it, not when new memories flooded his brain. Sitting on the edge of the bed, Jinwoo's chest rises and falls. His attempts to calm himself down prove futile when it dawns on him that he made people back home forget about him.
While he didn't regret the decision back then, and he certainly doesn't right now, an anxious feeling leaves his chest feel tight. What if there was a slim chance it affected people in LILITH's base? He's not sure if that makes any sense, yet the fact that he's become the Shadow Monarch doesn't either.Â
Before Jinwoo realizes it, he's already back on his feet, leaving his room in the Brimstone block. Springing through the hallways brings him temporary peace—when he's running, the memories stop emerging one after another, and he desperately needs to be in the present right now.
When he finally reaches the Redemption hallway and stops in front of the doors leading to the room numbered 10, Jinwoo knocks at the door, perhaps putting too much strength into it because of all the noise in his head that comes from the amalgamation of memories. As soon as he sees Lapis, however, he finds himself at peace, even if just momentarily. ]Â
La—Do you know me?
[ Jinwoo bites his bottom lip. No, if she doesn't remember him, he shouldn't mention her name. Knocking at her door all of a sudden must be weird enough. That's when Jinwoo realizes he doesn't even know what time of the day or night it is. ]
[ It's been a couple of days since Iron just... disappeared from her shadow. Since she last saw Jinwoo; she couldn't sense him anymore either. And Lapis told herself this was something to be expected, that it's possible for him to just vanish at anytime.
Those thoughts don't ease how much his absence ached, don't soothe just how much she misses him; and she couldn't even properly confess to him in the end either. But she tries to keep herself busy, tries to keep herself distracted during sleepless nights where she would've gone to him. But the pang is always there, impossible to ignore - honestly, times like this she wishes she could get drunk, at least to numb that feeling a little.
So she's surprised on another sleepless night that she picks up on a presence nearby, familiar but also not, and there's very little hesitation in answering the door when that heavy knock lands on it. Golden eyes blink up at Jinwoo, the relief in seeing him again so strong that she almost tears up. Almost, as his question just throws her for a loop. Why is he asking that... ]
What? Of course I do, what are you... [ No, no something is different. This is still Jinwoo, but there's been a change to him - death clings to him more heavily than before, as if it's become a part of him.
Her hand reaches for his, pulling him into her room - and once the door closes, she tugs him over to sit next to her on her bed, concern radiating off her. There must be a reason why he asked that, a reason behind this change. ]
[ After hearing his own name Jinwoo relaxes a bit more, but for some reason, his body feels really heavy now that he's sitting next to Lapis on her bed. Instead of answering, he rests his forehead against her shoulder and takes a deep breath.
What happened? He doesn't understand it himself. One moment he was there, the other he wasn't, and now he's back. That makes him wonder how much time has passed since they've seen each other. ]
I... I was gone, right? For how long?
[ He's going to explain as much as he can, but he still needs a moment to gather his thoughts. ]
A lot... happened. You can tell that something is different about me, can't you?
[ Golden eyes blink when Jinwoo rests against her shoulder, but there's no hesitation in wrapping an arm around him. Lapis holding him close, as her other hand reaches up to gently brush her fingers through his hair. It's clear he's feeling overwhelmed, so she'll give him all the time he needs. ]
Mmhm, a couple of days. I noticed something was wrong when I couldn't sense Iron in my shadow anymore, and then I couldn't sense you either...
[ It still makes her heart twist, thinking about his absence. But he's here now and that's what matters. ]
I can, yes. It feels like... death covers you more than before. [ Like he's seeped in it. Though it doesn't change how she feels about him, besides concern about what's happened. ]
[ It's not exactly reassuring, but Jinwoo is aware that it could have been worse. If he glitched out for a month or two all of a sudden, stripped off the chance to tell her that he'll be back no matter what— ]
I'm sorry. [ Jinwoo told her repeatedly to not apologize about things out of her control, but he might be terrible at listening to his own advice. ] I didn't mean to worry you.
[ The deep sigh that follows might seem like he has some bad news to share, but when he gazes up at Lapis, his lips are slightly curved up in a faint smile. ]
Iron... I'm sorry, but you won't see him again. [ His expression becomes somewhat apologetic. ] I hope he's happier now that he lives as a human again, though. As for me...
[ Where does he even begin? Jinwoo presses his forehead against her shoulder again and takes a deep breath. ]
[ Jinwoo apologies, and Lapis huffs in response - a finger gently poking into his side. ]
Remember what you told me, never apologise for things out of your control. [ And it looks like there's a lot on his mind. The last thing she wants is for him to worry about this too. ] I'm just happy to see you again.
[ She missed him greatly, in those last few days. But she doesn't want to bog him down with that either, especially when he sighs like that - brows furrowing in concern. ]
Ah... [ Iron is human again... She's glad for that, she really is, but she still feels her heart sink. ] Mm, I'll miss him. But I hope his life as a human again is a happy one. And -
[ She trails off, glancing towards her desk. There sits a little Iron, almost fully knitted together. ] - We'll have little Iron, at least.
[ And as for Jinwoo, she glances over as his head thumps against her shoulder, watching him for a moment. Then her arms tighten around him, gently motioning him to lay on the bed next to her; keeping his head tucked against her shoulder. ]
As long as you're fine, that's what matters. There's no rush to tell me everything, I'm not going anywhere.
I guess I’m no good at listening to my own advice.
[ Still, maybe it was worth it, even if just for that huff. Maybe it’s a little unfair on his end to not mention it, but Jinwoo wants to see if Lapis will treat him the same way as before, even if she’s noticed the change already. Jinwoo doesn’t have to wait too long for an answer, since they’re laying down on top of the bed together soon enough. He just manages to catch a glimpse of Iron Jr before that happens. ]
I hope so, too. And we’ll probably have to share little Iron with my soldiers.
[ They miss him too, after all. For now, however, Jinwoo doesn’t feel like introducing them to Lapis. It’s a moment for just the two of them. ]
I wasn’t going anywhere either, it just… happened. I wouldn’t leave [ You. ] The base and you without saying anything. If I were to tell you everything that happened, one night might not be enough.
[ He’s not even exaggerating. Nonetheless, Jinwoo takes a deep breath and tries to gather his thoughts. ]
Maybe I should start from the end. Back in my world, I got the chance to turn back time by ten years. That way… I could correct some of my mistakes. Save more people. They wouldn’t remember me, but that’s not important as long as they are alive and happy.
[ Not even this change she can sense in Jinwoo will shift how she feels towards him - he's still Jinwoo, and he's still someone she's come to care for a lot. Maybe a lot more than she was expecting, considering how deeply she missed him and just how relieved she is now, to hold him like this.
But right now she'll focus on this, on him, lips brushing against his hair as she hums softly. ]
Once I get better at knitting, maybe I can make a less little Iron.
[ She won't mind sharing him with the soldiers, she can only imagine how much they must miss him. Though as long as he's happy now, she won't let herself dwell on that.
And while it does worry her how he just... vanished like that, she'll try not to focus on that either. He came back and that's the important thing here, even as her brows furrow faintly. ]
Well, I don't mind spending a few nights like this. There's no need to rush. [ Though she goes quiet as he gathers his thoughts, her brows only furrowing all the more as she listens. He was able to turn back time? And if these people didn't remember him... ]
[ Whether it's Neo Tokyo, Kyoto, or now Vegas, Jinwoo always makes sure to scout the area as soon as possible. This might not have been included in the initial plan to explore the Strip and the places nearby, but it turns out that it's a great method to find great places for the first date.
After looking through the places he has seen, Jinwoo has decided that their first stop would be the restaurant where they could have a nice brunch. It's a bit on the fancy side, which makes Jinwoo wonder if it's a good idea in the first place, but Beru convinces him that it's the perfect place for their tryst. The gondola rides appeal to Jinwoo as the next stopping point after a meal. Besides, riding a gondola gives an excellent excuse to cuddle a little.
That thought makes him let out a laugh. They don't need excuses for that now, do they?
Then, there's the Chocolate Factory, which seems like a perfect first stop considering Lapis' sweet tooth. Enjoying treats made out of chocolate while walking around the cacti garden sounds quite enjoyable and relaxing, too. And for the last spot, Jinwoo makes sure to get tickets for the High Roller that Lapis mentioned during their game of truth or dare.
Of course, he doesn't forget about the right attire. The fact that they're living in one room in Vegas makes the picking her up for the date part a bit ridiculous, but Beru is more than glad to suggest an idea that gives Lapis time in the morning to get ready for the date without Jinwoo around.Â
What Jinwoo never expected was that Beru could get so fussy about a bouquet. When Jinwoo knocks at the door to the room they share, he's holding a bouquet of 24 white roses, and all of his shadow soldiers have received the order to withdraw to his shadow. ]
Hi. [ After a slightly awkward greeting, Jinwoo laughs softly and holds out the bouquet for Lapis. ] Here, for you.Â
[ As Lapis gets ready for the date (it's still a little strange to think about, that she's really going on a date with Jinwoo) she's not sure if it's herself or Sylvia who is more excited. From the moment the spectre discovered Jinwoo had asked her out, she was full of barely contained glee - not that Lapis was much better, her stomach filled with butterflies when the actual day arrived.
But she lets the spirit help her with getting ready, having made sure to pick out a certain cute dress while letting Sylvia mess with her hair. Once more she found herself grateful towards Beru; him suggesting for Jinwoo to go out means her look can be a bit of a surprise for the man. Once she's all ready - and with a reassurance to tell Sylvia all about it later - she dismisses her own spirits before there's the knock on the door.
When she answers the door, there's a blink at the bouquet in his arms, processing that for a moment before she gives him a soft smile. ]
Hi. [ She echoes back with a gentle chuckle before taking the bouquet. Warmth is quick to spread along her cheeks as takes a moment to admire it, her smile brightening that little bit more. 24 of them... She wonders if Jinwoo would know what that means, but it still makes her heart race a little harder as she beams up at him. ]
They're beautiful, thank you... [ Seriously, the date has barely started and she's already getting flustered. Seeing Jinwoo dressed like that isn't helping with her trying to keep her composure either. ]
[ Thanks to Beru and his vast knowledge of romance based on kdramas, Jinwoo is aware of the implications behind the 24 roses but he'll gladly pretend to be oblivious to the meaning if Lapis tries to ask about the number.
He'd suggest running to their first stop at full speed some other day, yet today is special. Even if getting around and riding the van might be slower, that will be their main mode of transport on the date. ]
No wardrobe malfunctions are allowed today. [ It's quite funny whenever he remembers how many of those they've experienced. ] Are you ready for our first date?
[ Jinwoo offers his hand, hoping that Lapis will hold onto it as they leave. ]
[ The question is there, but for now Lapis will just focus on the flowers in her arms - his words pulling a gentle chuckle from her. ]
Absolutely none. Unless it's a schoolgirl outfit, I think you wouldn't mind that. [ She will never not tease him about that... And despite herself, she does feel her cheeks heat up once more when he offers his hand.
Though she doesn't want the flowers to get ruined, and so Sylvia pops up to make one last appearance to take the flowers; she'll get those nicely displayed while they're out on their date. And also flash her lady a quick thumbs up, prompting a quiet huff as she reaches to take Jinwoo's hand. ]
Mmhm, ready. I'm pretty curious about what you have planned.
[ His response is a soft chuckle. To think that his weakness got exposed so early on is a little funny. But as much as he appreciates schoolgirl outfits, he wouldn't wish that upon Lapis today. ]
I'd have to get a matching schoolboy outfit and I'm not sure if you'd want that. [ There's nothing wrong with that kind of uniform, but he'd rather stick to the suit she picked for him. ] Vegas is very... versatile when it comes to attractions. Have you ever been to Paris?
[ What he doesn't say is that it's a hint. They're already heading down to the van—while they're not exactly late, getting stuck in traffic when they could be eating delicious snacks would be the worst. ]
I don't know, you might look cute in that. [ But that will be for another time. For now she's very content in seeing him in the outfit she picked out. ]
Paris? When I was young, so I don't really remember much... [ And after that she was busy with her work in other spots in Europe, so there was never any time to go.
So now she's even more curious, making sure to keep in step with Jinwoo so there's no risk of them being late. ]
Pretty much. But I have to disappoint you, it's not Neo Paris.
[ If they could teleport there using LILITH's wrap technology that could have been amazing, but Vegas isn't too shabby either. Jinwoo didn't expect to miss Neo Tokyo that much though, even if he doesn't really consider it home. It's a bit complicated. Either way: ]
If you don't guess it right, I'm eating your dessert.
[ If Beru could hear this, he'd probably scold him that this isn't how he should treat a lady on a date, but his shadow soldiers cannot see them nor eavesdrop. Well, Jinwoo isn't completely serious anyway. ]
Well, I'll take an attraction in Vegas as a second option.
[ Though part of her is curious about what Neo Paris would look like, but she's content enough with this. What she doesn't say is she doesn't really mind where they go, so long as she can spend time with him.
Though that... dessert threat?? Has her blinking at Jinwoo in surprise for a moment. ]
Huh - [ Then she huffs, leaning closer so she can nudge her arm against his. How dare he hold her dessert hostage like this! ]
That's not fair. If you do that, I'm going to eat yours.
[ Maybe Beru won't approve, but this feels more like them - dumb jokes and banter. Lapis prefers this over anything more formal. ]
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» lapis (maid in japan)
He might be off work now, but there's no rest for the glitches—he's still donning the butler outfit when he enters the kitchen in the main base. Making pancakes for Lapis seems like a very silly idea considering his current appearance, but maybe Jinwoo wants to see her expression when a butler knocks at her door with a plate of pancakes.
Well, except this isn't how it goes. He's in the middle of decorating the pancakes when he notices no one else than Lapis step into the kitchen. ]
Oh, hi. Actually, I'm preparing a snack for you, Milady.
[ A little roleplay shouldn't hurt, right? ]
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But this outfit does give her an idea, and it's an idea that draws her into the kitchen. And while seeing someone else there isn't too surprising, the fact it's Jinwoo... in a butler outfit... is enough to make her pause.
... Hmm. She's starting to understand why he gets so flustered when she's put in certain outfits. Especially when he calls her that, and she can feel how her cheeks quickly heat up in response. ]
Hi... Y-you're really committing to the part, huh. [ Just gonna quickly clear her throat, gotta get her composure back. ]
So, what's my dutiful butler making?
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Fluffy pancakes, Milady's favorite. And what are you doing here?
[ Maybe it's because of the system, but he'd rather master a few recipes before moving to other ones. Which basically means that he's making pancakes, spaghetti, and fried chicken all the time. It's tempting to branch out a little, though. ]
At least it's gone glitch at the time.
[ Is he picturing Lapis as a school bunnygirl maid? Perhaps... ]
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And that gets her to chuckle bashfully, stepping closer so that she can better take a look. The cat ears seem to be linked to her somehow, as there's a moment where they perk up in interest. ]
From the looks of it I was plotting the same thing. I would've liked to have seen your face when I knocked on your door and called you "Master."
[ Though there's nothing to say she won't do that later. Just to kill him that little bit more.
And she considers that for a moment, humming as she considers this... What if every glitch at once... ]
I think you might explode if it was all those glitches at once.
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[ The fact that they both had basically the same plan is quite funny to Jinwoo. Not to mention that's one more similarity added to the pile. ]
Might? I definitely would.
[ It's worth making this clear. ]
How about I escort you and the pancakes back to your room first?
[ If she wants to surprise him later... well, that's definitely on the table. He's ready to die to a nice view. ]
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Definitely, huh. I'll remember that.
[ Lapis what do you mean -
But those little cat ears perk up again once more, head canting with a little smile. ]
I'll take an escort, along with you spending some time with me. [ Maybe her own surprise can happen around dinner...
Though she pauses for a moment before - ] I rather like how you look in that outfit, too.
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[ Maybe if he was talking to someone else, he'd regret making such a bold offer, but since it's Lapis, he's more than pleased to spoil her a little. After finishing up decorating the pancakes, Jinwoo takes the plate in one hand while offering his other arm for Lapis to hold onto. ]
I'm not sure if I could pull off something as formal everyday, though.
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[ Plotting is afoot. Though the fact he's willing to do that much for her is a little... embarrassing. Surely he's just committing to the bit, right?
But rather than focus on that, she happily loops her arm around his once he offers - letting herself press against his side. ]
Hmm... Maybe just special occasions then. So I'll make the most of this.
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» lapis (reunion)
While he didn't regret the decision back then, and he certainly doesn't right now, an anxious feeling leaves his chest feel tight. What if there was a slim chance it affected people in LILITH's base? He's not sure if that makes any sense, yet the fact that he's become the Shadow Monarch doesn't either.Â
Before Jinwoo realizes it, he's already back on his feet, leaving his room in the Brimstone block. Springing through the hallways brings him temporary peace—when he's running, the memories stop emerging one after another, and he desperately needs to be in the present right now.
When he finally reaches the Redemption hallway and stops in front of the doors leading to the room numbered 10, Jinwoo knocks at the door, perhaps putting too much strength into it because of all the noise in his head that comes from the amalgamation of memories. As soon as he sees Lapis, however, he finds himself at peace, even if just momentarily. ]Â
La—Do you know me?
[ Jinwoo bites his bottom lip. No, if she doesn't remember him, he shouldn't mention her name. Knocking at her door all of a sudden must be weird enough. That's when Jinwoo realizes he doesn't even know what time of the day or night it is. ]
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Those thoughts don't ease how much his absence ached, don't soothe just how much she misses him; and she couldn't even properly confess to him in the end either. But she tries to keep herself busy, tries to keep herself distracted during sleepless nights where she would've gone to him. But the pang is always there, impossible to ignore - honestly, times like this she wishes she could get drunk, at least to numb that feeling a little.
So she's surprised on another sleepless night that she picks up on a presence nearby, familiar but also not, and there's very little hesitation in answering the door when that heavy knock lands on it. Golden eyes blink up at Jinwoo, the relief in seeing him again so strong that she almost tears up. Almost, as his question just throws her for a loop. Why is he asking that... ]
What? Of course I do, what are you... [ No, no something is different. This is still Jinwoo, but there's been a change to him - death clings to him more heavily than before, as if it's become a part of him.
Her hand reaches for his, pulling him into her room - and once the door closes, she tugs him over to sit next to her on her bed, concern radiating off her. There must be a reason why he asked that, a reason behind this change. ]
What happened, Jinwoo?
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What happened? He doesn't understand it himself. One moment he was there, the other he wasn't, and now he's back. That makes him wonder how much time has passed since they've seen each other. ]
I... I was gone, right? For how long?
[ He's going to explain as much as he can, but he still needs a moment to gather his thoughts. ]
A lot... happened. You can tell that something is different about me, can't you?
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Mmhm, a couple of days. I noticed something was wrong when I couldn't sense Iron in my shadow anymore, and then I couldn't sense you either...
[ It still makes her heart twist, thinking about his absence. But he's here now and that's what matters. ]
I can, yes. It feels like... death covers you more than before. [ Like he's seeped in it. Though it doesn't change how she feels about him, besides concern about what's happened. ]
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[ It's not exactly reassuring, but Jinwoo is aware that it could have been worse. If he glitched out for a month or two all of a sudden, stripped off the chance to tell her that he'll be back no matter what— ]
I'm sorry. [ Jinwoo told her repeatedly to not apologize about things out of her control, but he might be terrible at listening to his own advice. ] I didn't mean to worry you.
[ The deep sigh that follows might seem like he has some bad news to share, but when he gazes up at Lapis, his lips are slightly curved up in a faint smile. ]
Iron... I'm sorry, but you won't see him again. [ His expression becomes somewhat apologetic. ] I hope he's happier now that he lives as a human again, though. As for me...
[ Where does he even begin? Jinwoo presses his forehead against her shoulder again and takes a deep breath. ]
I'm fine. Different, but fine.
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Remember what you told me, never apologise for things out of your control. [ And it looks like there's a lot on his mind. The last thing she wants is for him to worry about this too. ] I'm just happy to see you again.
[ She missed him greatly, in those last few days. But she doesn't want to bog him down with that either, especially when he sighs like that - brows furrowing in concern. ]
Ah... [ Iron is human again... She's glad for that, she really is, but she still feels her heart sink. ] Mm, I'll miss him. But I hope his life as a human again is a happy one. And -
[ She trails off, glancing towards her desk. There sits a little Iron, almost fully knitted together. ] - We'll have little Iron, at least.
[ And as for Jinwoo, she glances over as his head thumps against her shoulder, watching him for a moment. Then her arms tighten around him, gently motioning him to lay on the bed next to her; keeping his head tucked against her shoulder. ]
As long as you're fine, that's what matters. There's no rush to tell me everything, I'm not going anywhere.
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[ Still, maybe it was worth it, even if just for that huff. Maybe it’s a little unfair on his end to not mention it, but Jinwoo wants to see if Lapis will treat him the same way as before, even if she’s noticed the change already. Jinwoo doesn’t have to wait too long for an answer, since they’re laying down on top of the bed together soon enough. He just manages to catch a glimpse of Iron Jr before that happens. ]
I hope so, too. And we’ll probably have to share little Iron with my soldiers.
[ They miss him too, after all. For now, however, Jinwoo doesn’t feel like introducing them to Lapis. It’s a moment for just the two of them. ]
I wasn’t going anywhere either, it just… happened. I wouldn’t leave [ You. ] The base and you without saying anything. If I were to tell you everything that happened, one night might not be enough.
[ He’s not even exaggerating. Nonetheless, Jinwoo takes a deep breath and tries to gather his thoughts. ]
Maybe I should start from the end. Back in my world, I got the chance to turn back time by ten years. That way… I could correct some of my mistakes. Save more people. They wouldn’t remember me, but that’s not important as long as they are alive and happy.
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But right now she'll focus on this, on him, lips brushing against his hair as she hums softly. ]
Once I get better at knitting, maybe I can make a less little Iron.
[ She won't mind sharing him with the soldiers, she can only imagine how much they must miss him. Though as long as he's happy now, she won't let herself dwell on that.
And while it does worry her how he just... vanished like that, she'll try not to focus on that either. He came back and that's the important thing here, even as her brows furrow faintly. ]
Well, I don't mind spending a few nights like this. There's no need to rush. [ Though she goes quiet as he gathers his thoughts, her brows only furrowing all the more as she listens. He was able to turn back time? And if these people didn't remember him... ]
Is... that why you asked if I knew you?
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» lapis (vegas date)
After looking through the places he has seen, Jinwoo has decided that their first stop would be the restaurant where they could have a nice brunch. It's a bit on the fancy side, which makes Jinwoo wonder if it's a good idea in the first place, but Beru convinces him that it's the perfect place for their tryst. The gondola rides appeal to Jinwoo as the next stopping point after a meal. Besides, riding a gondola gives an excellent excuse to cuddle a little.
That thought makes him let out a laugh. They don't need excuses for that now, do they?
Then, there's the Chocolate Factory, which seems like a perfect first stop considering Lapis' sweet tooth. Enjoying treats made out of chocolate while walking around the cacti garden sounds quite enjoyable and relaxing, too. And for the last spot, Jinwoo makes sure to get tickets for the High Roller that Lapis mentioned during their game of truth or dare.
Of course, he doesn't forget about the right attire. The fact that they're living in one room in Vegas makes the picking her up for the date part a bit ridiculous, but Beru is more than glad to suggest an idea that gives Lapis time in the morning to get ready for the date without Jinwoo around.Â
What Jinwoo never expected was that Beru could get so fussy about a bouquet. When Jinwoo knocks at the door to the room they share, he's holding a bouquet of 24 white roses, and all of his shadow soldiers have received the order to withdraw to his shadow. ]
Hi. [ After a slightly awkward greeting, Jinwoo laughs softly and holds out the bouquet for Lapis. ] Here, for you.Â
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But she lets the spirit help her with getting ready, having made sure to pick out a certain cute dress while letting Sylvia mess with her hair. Once more she found herself grateful towards Beru; him suggesting for Jinwoo to go out means her look can be a bit of a surprise for the man. Once she's all ready - and with a reassurance to tell Sylvia all about it later - she dismisses her own spirits before there's the knock on the door.
When she answers the door, there's a blink at the bouquet in his arms, processing that for a moment before she gives him a soft smile. ]
Hi. [ She echoes back with a gentle chuckle before taking the bouquet. Warmth is quick to spread along her cheeks as takes a moment to admire it, her smile brightening that little bit more. 24 of them... She wonders if Jinwoo would know what that means, but it still makes her heart race a little harder as she beams up at him. ]
They're beautiful, thank you... [ Seriously, the date has barely started and she's already getting flustered. Seeing Jinwoo dressed like that isn't helping with her trying to keep her composure either. ]
And you're looking very handsome too.
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He'd suggest running to their first stop at full speed some other day, yet today is special. Even if getting around and riding the van might be slower, that will be their main mode of transport on the date. ]
No wardrobe malfunctions are allowed today. [ It's quite funny whenever he remembers how many of those they've experienced. ] Are you ready for our first date?
[ Jinwoo offers his hand, hoping that Lapis will hold onto it as they leave. ]
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Absolutely none. Unless it's a schoolgirl outfit, I think you wouldn't mind that. [ She will never not tease him about that... And despite herself, she does feel her cheeks heat up once more when he offers his hand.
Though she doesn't want the flowers to get ruined, and so Sylvia pops up to make one last appearance to take the flowers; she'll get those nicely displayed while they're out on their date. And also flash her lady a quick thumbs up, prompting a quiet huff as she reaches to take Jinwoo's hand. ]
Mmhm, ready. I'm pretty curious about what you have planned.
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I'd have to get a matching schoolboy outfit and I'm not sure if you'd want that. [ There's nothing wrong with that kind of uniform, but he'd rather stick to the suit she picked for him. ] Vegas is very... versatile when it comes to attractions. Have you ever been to Paris?
[ What he doesn't say is that it's a hint. They're already heading down to the van—while they're not exactly late, getting stuck in traffic when they could be eating delicious snacks would be the worst. ]
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Paris? When I was young, so I don't really remember much... [ And after that she was busy with her work in other spots in Europe, so there was never any time to go.
So now she's even more curious, making sure to keep in step with Jinwoo so there's no risk of them being late. ]
Is where we're going potentially Paris inspired?
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[ If they could teleport there using LILITH's wrap technology that could have been amazing, but Vegas isn't too shabby either. Jinwoo didn't expect to miss Neo Tokyo that much though, even if he doesn't really consider it home. It's a bit complicated. Either way: ]
If you don't guess it right, I'm eating your dessert.
[ If Beru could hear this, he'd probably scold him that this isn't how he should treat a lady on a date, but his shadow soldiers cannot see them nor eavesdrop. Well, Jinwoo isn't completely serious anyway. ]
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[ Though part of her is curious about what Neo Paris would look like, but she's content enough with this. What she doesn't say is she doesn't really mind where they go, so long as she can spend time with him.
Though that... dessert threat?? Has her blinking at Jinwoo in surprise for a moment. ]
Huh - [ Then she huffs, leaning closer so she can nudge her arm against his. How dare he hold her dessert hostage like this! ]
That's not fair. If you do that, I'm going to eat yours.
[ Maybe Beru won't approve, but this feels more like them - dumb jokes and banter. Lapis prefers this over anything more formal. ]
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