lullaby blue .

independent & selective aoba seragaki from dramatical murder. characters from other visual novels will make appearances. written by casval. dark content & nsfw ahead.

[rpdepartment]

SCAR-THEMED HEADCANONS

TW for self-harm

how many scars does your muse have?

is there a scar they don't like to talk about?

do they have any "mundane" scars? caused by a paper cuts, falling against a corner, an operation... ?

do they have any childhood scars?

do they have any battle scar?

are they proud of their scar?

do they tend to hide their scar?

which scar was caused by the worst wound?

do they have any funny story related to one or more of their scars?

do they have any scary story related to one or more of their scars?

do they have any scar shaped in a very particular way?

do they like it when people touch their scars?

did they ever come up with some absurd story about their scars?

do they have any scar caused by someone they still have a positive relationship with?

do they have any scar caused by someone they consider an enemy or a rival?

[ TW ] is any scar a reminder of a near-death experience?

[ TW ] do they have any scar caused by self-harming?

[rpdepartment]

mundane headcanons

🌅 morning routine

at what time do they generally wake up?

do they tend to wake up early and take their time, or would they rather rush it?

how many alarms do they need to wake up?

are they a morning person?

bathroom first or breakfast first?

do they take a shower to wake up?

coffee, tea, milk or juice?

sweet or savoury breakfast?

what do they like to have for breakfast?

do they prepare their clothes before going to sleep, or do they prefer to improvize?

do they spend a lot of time dressing up, fixing their hair and/or putting on makeup?

🚿 personal hygiene

how often do they take a shower/bath?

shower or bath?

shower/bath in the morning, afternoon or evening?

do they use specific perfumes?

do they prefer their shampoos and soaps plain, or do they like to smell like something specific?

do they have specific shampoos, conditioners and body wash, or do they go with a 3-in-1?

what's their go-to flavor when it comes to toothpaste?

🍕 food breaks

do they have set times for their meals, or do they eat whenever they feel like it?

do they have a proper meals everyday, or do they tend to skip or get just a snack for lunch/dinner?

are they a home-cooking kind of person, or do they rather get takeouts?

if they eat at work/school, do they take time to prepare even just a sandwich at home before going out?

do they tend to have any make-ahead meals?

do they tend to have leftovers?

how often do they get fast food?

how often do they go to restaurants?

🧹 chores

are they the one doing most chores in the house?

which chore is the one they dread doing the most?

do they wash the dishes right after a meal, or do they leave them in the sink until it's impossible to ignore them?

do they have the dreaded "laundry chair" where they put dirty clothes on?

do they make their bed in the morning, or leave it undone until it's time to sleep?

🚗 transports

do they have a driving license, wether it's for a car or bikes?

do they have any other kind of driving licences ( planes, ships, buses... )

do they own a car?

do they own a bike?

are they the kind of person who think of their car as if it was their baby? perfectly clean, not a scratch, almost overly protective of it?

do they use public transports? if so, do they like using them?

do they like going on trains?

do they like going on boats or ships?

do they like going on airplanes?

📱 phone

what phone do they have?

do they use specific ringtones depending on who calls them, or do they use just one for everyone?

how often do they check their phone?

do they keep their phone's audio volume on, or do they prefer the vibration or? or do they rather have it silenced?

how many apps to they have on their phone, give or take?

do they have games on their phone?

what's their background and lock-screen?

💻 social media

are they registered to any social media?

how often do they log in?

how many followers do they have?

do they follow a lot of people?

how easy is it for them to block someone online?

what do they tend to post online ( art, videos, just starting fights online... )?

did they ever get in an online fight?

do you think they'd have callouts about them?

😴 sleeping routine

at what time do they tend to go to sleep?

do they take anything to help them sleep ( medicines, chamomilles, warm milk... )?

how much does it take for them to fall asleep?

are they a light or a heavy sleeper?

do they snore, talk and/or move a lot while sleeping?

do they dream often?

what kind of dreams to they tend to have?

do they prefer to be in complete darkness to fall asleep, or are they ok with a bit of light?

do they need the door or the windows open, or do they prefer them closed when they go to sleep?

what's their usual sleeping position?

where is their bed? with a side against the wall, in the middle of the room... ?

[marichive]

100 INDULGENT TROPES

A collection of one hundred tropes of varying nature. Spiritual successor to my previous An Extremely Self-Indulgent Meme. Some of these pair well together and can easily be sent in various combinations. Some are also highly suggestive in nature. Engage appropriately.

one muse steps protectively in front of the other

one muse tends to the other’s injury

one muse is not acting like themselves and the other has to snap them out of it

one muse kisses the other during an argument

one muse pins the other to a wall

one muse kisses the other on their hand or wrist

one muse kisses the other on their neck or shoulder

one muse helps the other put on a necklace or tie

our muses aren’t supposed to be together but keep meeting anyway (on purpose or by accident)

our muses have a secret relationship

one muse takes a blow meant for the the other

one muse fights away enemies attacking the the other

one muse asks the other for their favor / a token before battle or a tourney

our muses share a night together believing it might be their last

our muses are in an arranged marriage / betrothal

our muses willingly marry for political reasons

our muses get married for love

our muses get married in a spur-of-the-moment decision

one muse has taken the other captive

our muses are in love but one thinks they aren’t good enough for the other

our muses are forced to ally for a common goal

our muses are enemies or former enemies but have started to fall for each other

our muses claim to hate each other but there is palpable tension between the two

our muses are trying to manipulate each other

one muse is trying to manipulate the other

our muses have feelings for each other but have conflicting loyalties

our muses are friends but have started to fall for each other

our muses are childhood friends that have been slowly falling for each other over the years

one muse has been in love with the other for a long time but is afraid their feelings are not reciprocated

one muse is in love with the other but they are in a relationship with or engaged to another person

our muses engage in a courtly romance

one muse is a knight in service to the the other’s family

one muse seeks comfort from a loveless marriage with the other, their lover

one muse traces the other’s scars

one muse kisses the other in a moment of heightened emotion

one muse confides in the other in a vulnerable moment

our muses are in love but circumstances prevent them from being together

our muses are exes who discover lingering feelings after reuniting

one muse confesses love to another after that person is injured

one muse confesses love to another because they believe they may die soon

our muses must share a bed

one muse lifts the other’s chin to look them in the eye

one muse places a hand at the back of the other’s neck to pull them extremely close

our muses have been hooking up, no strings attached

our muses have been hooking up, but one or both has developed deeper feelings

our muses are exes that hook up against their better judgement

one muse presumes the other is dead but is shocked when they show up alive again

one muse betrays their long held loyalties in order to save the other’s life from their own allies

our muses fake a relationship but have no actual interest in each other

our muses fake a relationship but start to genuinely fall for each other

one muse is known for their hard exterior and softens only in the other’s presence

one muse is the other’s weakness, something an enemy is trying to exploit

our muses are stuck somewhere together and must occupy their time

one muse has feelings for the other but has not acted on them due to their association with another character (a sibling / relative / ex / etc. ) or an organization

one muse is scared to act on feelings for the other due to poor experiences with love in the past

one muse is oblivious to the other’s feelings for them

one muse acts oblivious to the other’s feelings for them but really they are aware

one muse has unrequited feelings for the other

our muses are co-workers engaging in a hidden romance

one muse reveals one of their darkest secrets to the other

one muse comforts the other during an emotional breakdown

one muse calms the other from an intense rage

one muse’s family forbids them from seeing the other

our muses are in love but their friends / family do not support their relationship

one muse seeks redemption for past actions and comes to the other to atone

our muses regularly exchange letters

our muses move in together

our muses adopt a pet together

our muses have a child together

our muses adopt a child together

one muse discovers they are pregnant by accident

our muses have been set up by mutual friends

our muses have been set up by a matchmaker

our muses are in love with each other but are in denial

one muse is the other’s bodyguard / protector

one muse is royalty while the other is a commoner / rogue / societal outcast

one muse kisses the other for a bet

one muse relentlessly flirts with the other

our muses kiss for the first time ever

one muse wins a date with the other at an event

our muses dance together for the first time

one muse brushes their fingers through the other’s hair

one muse drunkenly confesses something to the other

our muses drunkenly hook up and wake up next to each other

our muses are roommates

our muses are partners in crime

one muse is a supernatural creature who falls for the other, who is a mortal

our muses are supernatural creatures from opposite clans or species that are historically hostile to each other

one muses is under a spell / in the middle of a monstrous transformation but somehow recognizes the other and refrains from harming them

our muses cuddle for warmth

our muses run away together

one muse wears piece of clothing or jewelry that belongs to the other

our muses bathe together

our muses cook together

our muses cuddle in bed

one muse serenades the other

one muse holds a weapon to the other as a threat

one muse physically lifts the other up

one muse protectively wraps an arm around the other

meet cute !

[cosmocaller]

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀NEW MAIN MUSE: TOWA [ SLOW DAMAGE ]

age 26. an artist going by the name euphoria, with little regard for anything—even his own life.

[agronzky]

⠀⠀⠀𝐅𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐘 𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐓𝐎 𝐈𝐌𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑. ♡

⠀⠀⠀below you will find 20 creative questions about family designed to deepen your character building. such questions can also be used as ask meme or pov starters.

What is the dynamic of the character's family? Are they close and united or distant?

Who is the most influential figure in the character's life within the family?

Does the character have siblings? If so, how is their relationship with them?

What is the character's favorite family tradition and why is it significant?

How does the character deal with family conflicts? Do they avoid them or face them directly?

Does the character have a parental role model or do they prefer to chart their own path?

What is the character's most memorable childhood memory involving the family?

How does the character behave at family gatherings? Are they sociable or more reserved?

What did the character learn from their parents or relatives that influenced their adult life?

Are there any family secrets in the character's past that still affect them today?

Does the character maintain old family traditions or seek to innovate and create new ones?

How has the relationship between the character's parents or guardians shaped their beliefs and values?

Is the character more like a specific family member? How is this reflected in their personality?

What is the character's relationship with their grandparents? Do they play an active role in their life?

Does the character feel pressure to meet family expectations? How do they deal with it?

How would the character describe their childhood in terms of family support and love?

Is the character's family traditional or more open to different lifestyles?

Has the character ever had a serious disagreement with a family member? How did this affect their relationship?

How does the character define the concept of family? Who do they consider to be part of their "family" apart from their biological relatives?

How does the character feel about their role in the family? Do they take on responsibilities, do they seek to be the link between the members or do they prefer a more independent approach? How does this influence their identity within the family?

[noizudesu]

[seravph]

Mitski, cop car / art by @ink-the-artist / Nicole Dollanganger, dog teeth

[flashingmarkii]

( cont. | @cosmocaller )

When you're stuck with a line up of machines that demand attention, who do you leave all your workload to? The only fool who can't seem to say no, not even to save her own life.

It's even more tough when you're the odd one out, the newbie, or—plainly, desperately trying to fit in.

That's Melissa's predicament, that's exactly what lead her to leaving at an ungodly hour. It's exactly what's lead her to having to settle for a convenience store meal. To begin with, it wasn't like she was going to do much cooking as soon as she got to her so-brand-new-it's-technically-empty apartment.

Right, the only thing waiting at home were... boxes. And boxes. And even more boxes piled on top of even more boxes that clearly had FRAGILE written all over it.

(Of course, she didn't bother to speak up on that, either.)

What was she here for, again? Dinner. Right, dinner. At least the combini here isn't packed to the brim with nothing but junk food, upon closer examination to the fridges, she finds a pretty decent variety of food—most on discount, after all, it is late. Most of these things will be thrown out if they stay here.

Just as her basket is decently filled with anything that caught her eye (call that a balanced meal), Melissa turns and drags her feet towards the register. Except she doesn't even make it there, the only thing she feels as she walks with her eyes half-closed is a bump, and the loss of balance, she can't even throw her arms back to stop her fall—she's left waiting for the inevitable to happen—except it doesn't.

Turns out the inevitable was... well, actually more evitable than she would've thought.

"... Huh? W-What?" It still hasn't registered. When she properly opens her eyes, she almost wishes she hadn't. This is mortifying. In fact, she's starting to wish he had just let her fall, and maybe then it would've been less embarrassing.

"N-No! No, I'm sorry, I didn't see where I was going... it's my fault."

[flashingmarkii]

That sounds like an understatement, however, Melissa is too tired to argue semantics. At this point, she's debating on simply putting everything she was intending on purchasing back where it went and going straight home, straight to the small spot on the floor she'd call her bed that night.

However, there's always inherently shameful about entering a store, being asked did you need something? and walking out empty-handed.

Once again, she nods, and—finally—decides that it's time she gets going.

"I'll do so, Aoba, I think your partner is getting... upset, I should get going myself, so... I'll see you around?"

There's no use in saying goodbye if they'll run into each other again, right?

[cosmocaller]

Aoba can tell Ren is getting restless, if the way his snout continues to subtly nudge up into his hand, a sort of "let's go, now" that only he can understand. It's both Ren and Melissa's cues that the conversation is over that get him to collect himself and stop going on and on about the island.

"...Right! I'll see you around, Melissa. It was nice meeting you!"

Refusing to let the awkward conversation last any longer—and to permit them both to go home—Aoba is the first to bow and walk away.

[flashingmarkii]

( cont. | @cosmocaller )

When you're stuck with a line up of machines that demand attention, who do you leave all your workload to? The only fool who can't seem to say no, not even to save her own life.

It's even more tough when you're the odd one out, the newbie, or—plainly, desperately trying to fit in.

That's Melissa's predicament, that's exactly what lead her to leaving at an ungodly hour. It's exactly what's lead her to having to settle for a convenience store meal. To begin with, it wasn't like she was going to do much cooking as soon as she got to her so-brand-new-it's-technically-empty apartment.

Right, the only thing waiting at home were... boxes. And boxes. And even more boxes piled on top of even more boxes that clearly had FRAGILE written all over it.

(Of course, she didn't bother to speak up on that, either.)

What was she here for, again? Dinner. Right, dinner. At least the combini here isn't packed to the brim with nothing but junk food, upon closer examination to the fridges, she finds a pretty decent variety of food—most on discount, after all, it is late. Most of these things will be thrown out if they stay here.

Just as her basket is decently filled with anything that caught her eye (call that a balanced meal), Melissa turns and drags her feet towards the register. Except she doesn't even make it there, the only thing she feels as she walks with her eyes half-closed is a bump, and the loss of balance, she can't even throw her arms back to stop her fall—she's left waiting for the inevitable to happen—except it doesn't.

Turns out the inevitable was... well, actually more evitable than she would've thought.

"... Huh? W-What?" It still hasn't registered. When she properly opens her eyes, she almost wishes she hadn't. This is mortifying. In fact, she's starting to wish he had just let her fall, and maybe then it would've been less embarrassing.

"N-No! No, I'm sorry, I didn't see where I was going... it's my fault."

[cosmocaller]

Truthfully, part of Aoba had wanted to assume that she wasn't new, that she was just some kind of shut-in and that was why he hadn't seen her. It's not really easy for people to get used to the culture of Midorijima—Rib and Rhyme, all the gangs that go along with it, the yakuza and police... it's a lot for people who aren't really used to that kind of stuff on the mainland.

He's not the type to worry about someone just because they're a girl, or expect them to be able to fend for themselves because they're a dude—but there's plenty of reason to be concerned for her safety.

She just... doesn't really look like the type to associate with that sort of thing.

"Ah, is that so..." he tries not to sound too startled by her answer, but... well, he's exhausted and his head hurts. He hasn't taken his medicine in a while...

Work, she said work. It's a little interesting to hear that, slightly concerning too. He told himself he shouldn't really try to get into her business and just let the poor girl go about her day, but...

"You said work? If you don't mind... what is it that you do?"

[flashingmarkii]

A warm bed, a fluffy pillow, silk pajamas.

Those three things circle her thoughts over and over, and she wants to imagine how nice it'd be. Even though she knows all that awaits her is a folded futon she's not used to. A pair of cotton shorts and a plain, oversized tee.

(What was she talking about?)

Work, right. There's a spike of anxiety all of the sudden. But, she manages, not because she always can, but more like because she has to.

"—Oh! Yeah," it's like she's snapping in and out of the conversation, her head tilts to the side without her meaning to, though, she catches herself—as she straightens her posture to try and wake herself up—she swears she can see light rustling underneath his jacket. She chalks it up to her mind playing tricks on her.

"I'm a mechanic, nothing special, really... ehe, I guess I don't really look like one, do I...?"

[cosmocaller]

Aoba almost forgets how tired he is, and it's only upon focusing on her appearance again that he remembers he feels the way she looks like she feels. He's tired enough to hardly register the way Ren shifts in his bag, clearly poking his head out of the top to nudge at his side.

Ren's attempts at gaining his attention are sadly ignored, at first.

"A mechanic?" Someone who worked for Toue wouldn't outright state it, but... well, she doesn't really look the corporate type.

(Does anyone really look like the "corporate type"...?)

"Well...! Not really, but... I don't think there's a way mechanics are supposed to look. Everyone I know that works with any kind of machine looks super different... even I don't think I look like I dabble in Allmate repair stuff."

Aoba feels a little flustered when he realizes he's kind of rambling a bit. He said a lot, didn't he...? Ah, it's just so late. He's tired. He really should be going home—

『 Aoba. 』

The deep voice coming from under Aoba's arm startles him. Even though it's so familiar, he just wasn't expecting Ren to speak in public without being prompted.

『 It's 12:45 A.M. 』

He looks down to meet the Allmate's characteristically deadpan gaze—as if a "dog" could really emote much anyway—before glancing up at the woman in front of him.

"A-ah! I hadn't even realized, I'm so sorry," he stammers, but his quick glancing between both the dog and the girl make it slightly... unclear, who he's directing his apology toward.

[flashingmarkii]

They're simply existing, it seems. Standing awkwardly, they're lucky it's this late and they're not in anyone's way. Even the cashier seems to be ignoring them.

It's for the best.

Turns out the rustling wasn't her imagination, and, as soon as Ren pops his head out. Honestly, she doesn't find it in her to do much more than breathe out a small 'ah'.

"Cute..." She doesn't do much more than nod in acknowledgement. Once, twice.

... 12:45? Is it really that late already?! There's a sudden sense of urgency as she turns to look at her wristwatch. Indeed, it is now 12:46 A.M.

The realization makes her gasp, and this time it's way more audible. She was already freaking out at getting out at work at 11:30 P.M.

This is worse.

"I-It's okay!" Is it?! Is it really?! Isn't this dangerous?! What if she gets lost?! Well, really, her apartment is only a block away, but, the worst things always happen when you let your guard down, right?! You become complacent with your situation, and think it probably won't happen to you - but then it does!

... Oh. She never even ask his name, did she?

"I-I'm Melissa, by the way! It was very nice to meet you, um...?"

She really should be going! But, it'd be rude, right?!

[cosmocaller]

Ren seems to ruffle a bit at being called cute, but it's nothing new. He doesn't take very well to strangers, much less compliments... but he's probably just more worried about how late Aoba is out. Once they're on their own, Aoba will probably get an earful about his medicine or something...

"I-I really should've kept a better eye on the time...!" His complaint is mostly whispered to himself, and he can feel Ren's blank eyes watching him as he shifts on his feet.

He's brought out of his anxious overthinking by the woman—Melissa, he learns—introducing himself, and he quickly realizes doing the same is the normal thing to do in this situation.

"A-Aoba! It was nice to meet you, too, Melissa. And this is, uh... my Allmate, Ren." He makes an awkward gesture toward the bundle of fur in his bag, laughing softly.

"Uh... if you need help getting around town or anything..." he knows he probably shouldn't do this, but better him than someone that might have less pure intentions—or god forbid, Koujaku's chivalrous ass.

Aoba pulls a small memo card out of his pocket (he can't even remember why he has it, it's just... there) and a pen. He quickly scribbles his Coil number and the shop cell number on it, handing it to her.

"Just—this place can be a little, uh... difficult to get around, so,"

Oh, this is awkward.

[flashingmarkii]

Fesity. She quietly nods, as though to silently apologize for her perceived impertinence. Though, Aoba's voice quickly snaps her out of it, for a second, she can't help but think that he compliments him.

Is she overthinking? Most likely. It's bad to try and analyze people, even if you don't mean it. It can turn into a pretty nasty habit.

His sudden straightforwardness seems to startle her, finally, but—almost immediately, her expression softens. It's like she's awake all of the sudden, this time—for real. Her hand reaches to take hold of the memo card, gives it a quick glance and puts it in her wallet, treating it with surprising care.

"... Thank you," she means it, too, and it's that gratefulness that dispels the awkwardness, even if just a little bit. "I've been... kind of going through the motions, really. I'm not used to this rhythm of life at all."

Conversations really do flow better when neither party is trying too hard to be too polite. Even if she's still somewhat embarrassed by their initial encounter, her expression seems way softer, as though she's grateful that she seems to have found such a kind person out in the wild.

"I-If you don't mind... I'll take you up on that offer," it's followed by a courteous bow. "Again, thank you!"

[cosmocaller]

"Yeah, this place is kind of... much, if you're used to calmer places like the mainland. It's easy to get lost, too, with all the backroads and alleyways..." he sort of laughs, and this feels a lot lighter than their conversation started. It's still awkward... but that's probably because they're so tired.

As if to anxiously stimulate himself, Aoba's hand idly reaches to comb its fingers through Ren's fur. The Allmate takes well to being pet—by Aoba, at least—and pushes up into his hand.

"I don't mind...! If you don't have an Allmate or a Coil for GPS, it's a bit tough to get around—so if you need help getting anywhere, or anything... let me know."

Melissa's bow is met with one of his own, a soft smile crossing his face. It's nice to... well, be nice—and even more so to know he was the one to talk to her before... well, maybe one of the guys from Scratch or Ruff Rabbit.

[flashingmarkii]

( cont. | @cosmocaller )

When you're stuck with a line up of machines that demand attention, who do you leave all your workload to? The only fool who can't seem to say no, not even to save her own life.

It's even more tough when you're the odd one out, the newbie, or—plainly, desperately trying to fit in.

That's Melissa's predicament, that's exactly what lead her to leaving at an ungodly hour. It's exactly what's lead her to having to settle for a convenience store meal. To begin with, it wasn't like she was going to do much cooking as soon as she got to her so-brand-new-it's-technically-empty apartment.

Right, the only thing waiting at home were... boxes. And boxes. And even more boxes piled on top of even more boxes that clearly had FRAGILE written all over it.

(Of course, she didn't bother to speak up on that, either.)

What was she here for, again? Dinner. Right, dinner. At least the combini here isn't packed to the brim with nothing but junk food, upon closer examination to the fridges, she finds a pretty decent variety of food—most on discount, after all, it is late. Most of these things will be thrown out if they stay here.

Just as her basket is decently filled with anything that caught her eye (call that a balanced meal), Melissa turns and drags her feet towards the register. Except she doesn't even make it there, the only thing she feels as she walks with her eyes half-closed is a bump, and the loss of balance, she can't even throw her arms back to stop her fall—she's left waiting for the inevitable to happen—except it doesn't.

Turns out the inevitable was... well, actually more evitable than she would've thought.

"... Huh? W-What?" It still hasn't registered. When she properly opens her eyes, she almost wishes she hadn't. This is mortifying. In fact, she's starting to wish he had just let her fall, and maybe then it would've been less embarrassing.

"N-No! No, I'm sorry, I didn't see where I was going... it's my fault."

[cosmocaller]

Truthfully, part of Aoba had wanted to assume that she wasn't new, that she was just some kind of shut-in and that was why he hadn't seen her. It's not really easy for people to get used to the culture of Midorijima—Rib and Rhyme, all the gangs that go along with it, the yakuza and police... it's a lot for people who aren't really used to that kind of stuff on the mainland.

He's not the type to worry about someone just because they're a girl, or expect them to be able to fend for themselves because they're a dude—but there's plenty of reason to be concerned for her safety.

She just... doesn't really look like the type to associate with that sort of thing.

"Ah, is that so..." he tries not to sound too startled by her answer, but... well, he's exhausted and his head hurts. He hasn't taken his medicine in a while...

Work, she said work. It's a little interesting to hear that, slightly concerning too. He told himself he shouldn't really try to get into her business and just let the poor girl go about her day, but...

"You said work? If you don't mind... what is it that you do?"

[flashingmarkii]

A warm bed, a fluffy pillow, silk pajamas.

Those three things circle her thoughts over and over, and she wants to imagine how nice it'd be. Even though she knows all that awaits her is a folded futon she's not used to. A pair of cotton shorts and a plain, oversized tee.

(What was she talking about?)

Work, right. There's a spike of anxiety all of the sudden. But, she manages, not because she always can, but more like because she has to.

"—Oh! Yeah," it's like she's snapping in and out of the conversation, her head tilts to the side without her meaning to, though, she catches herself—as she straightens her posture to try and wake herself up—she swears she can see light rustling underneath his jacket. She chalks it up to her mind playing tricks on her.

"I'm a mechanic, nothing special, really... ehe, I guess I don't really look like one, do I...?"

[cosmocaller]

Aoba almost forgets how tired he is, and it's only upon focusing on her appearance again that he remembers he feels the way she looks like she feels. He's tired enough to hardly register the way Ren shifts in his bag, clearly poking his head out of the top to nudge at his side.

Ren's attempts at gaining his attention are sadly ignored, at first.

"A mechanic?" Someone who worked for Toue wouldn't outright state it, but... well, she doesn't really look the corporate type.

(Does anyone really look like the "corporate type"...?)

"Well...! Not really, but... I don't think there's a way mechanics are supposed to look. Everyone I know that works with any kind of machine looks super different... even I don't think I look like I dabble in Allmate repair stuff."

Aoba feels a little flustered when he realizes he's kind of rambling a bit. He said a lot, didn't he...? Ah, it's just so late. He's tired. He really should be going home—

『 Aoba. 』

The deep voice coming from under Aoba's arm startles him. Even though it's so familiar, he just wasn't expecting Ren to speak in public without being prompted.

『 It's 12:45 A.M. 』

He looks down to meet the Allmate's characteristically deadpan gaze—as if a "dog" could really emote much anyway—before glancing up at the woman in front of him.

"A-ah! I hadn't even realized, I'm so sorry," he stammers, but his quick glancing between both the dog and the girl make it slightly... unclear, who he's directing his apology toward.

[flashingmarkii]

They're simply existing, it seems. Standing awkwardly, they're lucky it's this late and they're not in anyone's way. Even the cashier seems to be ignoring them.

It's for the best.

Turns out the rustling wasn't her imagination, and, as soon as Ren pops his head out. Honestly, she doesn't find it in her to do much more than breathe out a small 'ah'.

"Cute..." She doesn't do much more than nod in acknowledgement. Once, twice.

... 12:45? Is it really that late already?! There's a sudden sense of urgency as she turns to look at her wristwatch. Indeed, it is now 12:46 A.M.

The realization makes her gasp, and this time it's way more audible. She was already freaking out at getting out at work at 11:30 P.M.

This is worse.

"I-It's okay!" Is it?! Is it really?! Isn't this dangerous?! What if she gets lost?! Well, really, her apartment is only a block away, but, the worst things always happen when you let your guard down, right?! You become complacent with your situation, and think it probably won't happen to you - but then it does!

... Oh. She never even ask his name, did she?

"I-I'm Melissa, by the way! It was very nice to meet you, um...?"

She really should be going! But, it'd be rude, right?!

[cosmocaller]

Ren seems to ruffle a bit at being called cute, but it's nothing new. He doesn't take very well to strangers, much less compliments... but he's probably just more worried about how late Aoba is out. Once they're on their own, Aoba will probably get an earful about his medicine or something...

"I-I really should've kept a better eye on the time...!" His complaint is mostly whispered to himself, and he can feel Ren's blank eyes watching him as he shifts on his feet.

He's brought out of his anxious overthinking by the woman—Melissa, he learns—introducing himself, and he quickly realizes doing the same is the normal thing to do in this situation.

"A-Aoba! It was nice to meet you, too, Melissa. And this is, uh... my Allmate, Ren." He makes an awkward gesture toward the bundle of fur in his bag, laughing softly.

"Uh... if you need help getting around town or anything..." he knows he probably shouldn't do this, but better him than someone that might have less pure intentions—or god forbid, Koujaku's chivalrous ass.

Aoba pulls a small memo card out of his pocket (he can't even remember why he has it, it's just... there) and a pen. He quickly scribbles his Coil number and the shop cell number on it, handing it to her.

"Just—this place can be a little, uh... difficult to get around, so,"

Oh, this is awkward.

[flashingmarkii]

( cont. | @cosmocaller )

When you're stuck with a line up of machines that demand attention, who do you leave all your workload to? The only fool who can't seem to say no, not even to save her own life.

It's even more tough when you're the odd one out, the newbie, or—plainly, desperately trying to fit in.

That's Melissa's predicament, that's exactly what lead her to leaving at an ungodly hour. It's exactly what's lead her to having to settle for a convenience store meal. To begin with, it wasn't like she was going to do much cooking as soon as she got to her so-brand-new-it's-technically-empty apartment.

Right, the only thing waiting at home were... boxes. And boxes. And even more boxes piled on top of even more boxes that clearly had FRAGILE written all over it.

(Of course, she didn't bother to speak up on that, either.)

What was she here for, again? Dinner. Right, dinner. At least the combini here isn't packed to the brim with nothing but junk food, upon closer examination to the fridges, she finds a pretty decent variety of food—most on discount, after all, it is late. Most of these things will be thrown out if they stay here.

Just as her basket is decently filled with anything that caught her eye (call that a balanced meal), Melissa turns and drags her feet towards the register. Except she doesn't even make it there, the only thing she feels as she walks with her eyes half-closed is a bump, and the loss of balance, she can't even throw her arms back to stop her fall—she's left waiting for the inevitable to happen—except it doesn't.

Turns out the inevitable was... well, actually more evitable than she would've thought.

"... Huh? W-What?" It still hasn't registered. When she properly opens her eyes, she almost wishes she hadn't. This is mortifying. In fact, she's starting to wish he had just let her fall, and maybe then it would've been less embarrassing.

"N-No! No, I'm sorry, I didn't see where I was going... it's my fault."

[cosmocaller]

Truthfully, part of Aoba had wanted to assume that she wasn't new, that she was just some kind of shut-in and that was why he hadn't seen her. It's not really easy for people to get used to the culture of Midorijima—Rib and Rhyme, all the gangs that go along with it, the yakuza and police... it's a lot for people who aren't really used to that kind of stuff on the mainland.

He's not the type to worry about someone just because they're a girl, or expect them to be able to fend for themselves because they're a dude—but there's plenty of reason to be concerned for her safety.

She just... doesn't really look like the type to associate with that sort of thing.

"Ah, is that so..." he tries not to sound too startled by her answer, but... well, he's exhausted and his head hurts. He hasn't taken his medicine in a while...

Work, she said work. It's a little interesting to hear that, slightly concerning too. He told himself he shouldn't really try to get into her business and just let the poor girl go about her day, but...

"You said work? If you don't mind... what is it that you do?"

[flashingmarkii]

A warm bed, a fluffy pillow, silk pajamas.

Those three things circle her thoughts over and over, and she wants to imagine how nice it'd be. Even though she knows all that awaits her is a folded futon she's not used to. A pair of cotton shorts and a plain, oversized tee.

(What was she talking about?)

Work, right. There's a spike of anxiety all of the sudden. But, she manages, not because she always can, but more like because she has to.

"—Oh! Yeah," it's like she's snapping in and out of the conversation, her head tilts to the side without her meaning to, though, she catches herself—as she straightens her posture to try and wake herself up—she swears she can see light rustling underneath his jacket. She chalks it up to her mind playing tricks on her.

"I'm a mechanic, nothing special, really... ehe, I guess I don't really look like one, do I...?"

[cosmocaller]

Aoba almost forgets how tired he is, and it's only upon focusing on her appearance again that he remembers he feels the way she looks like she feels. He's tired enough to hardly register the way Ren shifts in his bag, clearly poking his head out of the top to nudge at his side.

Ren's attempts at gaining his attention are sadly ignored, at first.

"A mechanic?" Someone who worked for Toue wouldn't outright state it, but... well, she doesn't really look the corporate type.

(Does anyone really look like the "corporate type"...?)

"Well...! Not really, but... I don't think there's a way mechanics are supposed to look. Everyone I know that works with any kind of machine looks super different... even I don't think I look like I dabble in Allmate repair stuff."

Aoba feels a little flustered when he realizes he's kind of rambling a bit. He said a lot, didn't he...? Ah, it's just so late. He's tired. He really should be going home—

『 Aoba. 』

The deep voice coming from under Aoba's arm startles him. Even though it's so familiar, he just wasn't expecting Ren to speak in public without being prompted.

『 It's 12:45 A.M. 』

He looks down to meet the Allmate's characteristically deadpan gaze—as if a "dog" could really emote much anyway—before glancing up at the woman in front of him.

"A-ah! I hadn't even realized, I'm so sorry," he stammers, but his quick glancing between both the dog and the girl make it slightly... unclear, who he's directing his apology toward.

[flashingmarkii]

( cont. | @cosmocaller )

When you're stuck with a line up of machines that demand attention, who do you leave all your workload to? The only fool who can't seem to say no, not even to save her own life.

It's even more tough when you're the odd one out, the newbie, or—plainly, desperately trying to fit in.

That's Melissa's predicament, that's exactly what lead her to leaving at an ungodly hour. It's exactly what's lead her to having to settle for a convenience store meal. To begin with, it wasn't like she was going to do much cooking as soon as she got to her so-brand-new-it's-technically-empty apartment.

Right, the only thing waiting at home were... boxes. And boxes. And even more boxes piled on top of even more boxes that clearly had FRAGILE written all over it.

(Of course, she didn't bother to speak up on that, either.)

What was she here for, again? Dinner. Right, dinner. At least the combini here isn't packed to the brim with nothing but junk food, upon closer examination to the fridges, she finds a pretty decent variety of food—most on discount, after all, it is late. Most of these things will be thrown out if they stay here.

Just as her basket is decently filled with anything that caught her eye (call that a balanced meal), Melissa turns and drags her feet towards the register. Except she doesn't even make it there, the only thing she feels as she walks with her eyes half-closed is a bump, and the loss of balance, she can't even throw her arms back to stop her fall—she's left waiting for the inevitable to happen—except it doesn't.

Turns out the inevitable was... well, actually more evitable than she would've thought.

"... Huh? W-What?" It still hasn't registered. When she properly opens her eyes, she almost wishes she hadn't. This is mortifying. In fact, she's starting to wish he had just let her fall, and maybe then it would've been less embarrassing.

"N-No! No, I'm sorry, I didn't see where I was going... it's my fault."

[cosmocaller]

Truthfully, part of Aoba had wanted to assume that she wasn't new, that she was just some kind of shut-in and that was why he hadn't seen her. It's not really easy for people to get used to the culture of Midorijima—Rib and Rhyme, all the gangs that go along with it, the yakuza and police... it's a lot for people who aren't really used to that kind of stuff on the mainland.

He's not the type to worry about someone just because they're a girl, or expect them to be able to fend for themselves because they're a dude—but there's plenty of reason to be concerned for her safety.

She just... doesn't really look like the type to associate with that sort of thing.

"Ah, is that so..." he tries not to sound too startled by her answer, but... well, he's exhausted and his head hurts. He hasn't taken his medicine in a while...

Work, she said work. It's a little interesting to hear that, slightly concerning too. He told himself he shouldn't really try to get into her business and just let the poor girl go about her day, but...

"You said work? If you don't mind... what is it that you do?"

[flashingmarkii]

( cont. | @cosmocaller )

When you're stuck with a line up of machines that demand attention, who do you leave all your workload to? The only fool who can't seem to say no, not even to save her own life.

It's even more tough when you're the odd one out, the newbie, or—plainly, desperately trying to fit in.

That's Melissa's predicament, that's exactly what lead her to leaving at an ungodly hour. It's exactly what's lead her to having to settle for a convenience store meal. To begin with, it wasn't like she was going to do much cooking as soon as she got to her so-brand-new-it's-technically-empty apartment.

Right, the only thing waiting at home were... boxes. And boxes. And even more boxes piled on top of even more boxes that clearly had FRAGILE written all over it.

(Of course, she didn't bother to speak up on that, either.)

What was she here for, again? Dinner. Right, dinner. At least the combini here isn't packed to the brim with nothing but junk food, upon closer examination to the fridges, she finds a pretty decent variety of food—most on discount, after all, it is late. Most of these things will be thrown out if they stay here.

Just as her basket is decently filled with anything that caught her eye (call that a balanced meal), Melissa turns and drags her feet towards the register. Except she doesn't even make it there, the only thing she feels as she walks with her eyes half-closed is a bump, and the loss of balance, she can't even throw her arms back to stop her fall—she's left waiting for the inevitable to happen—except it doesn't.

Turns out the inevitable was... well, actually more evitable than she would've thought.

"... Huh? W-What?" It still hasn't registered. When she properly opens her eyes, she almost wishes she hadn't. This is mortifying. In fact, she's starting to wish he had just let her fall, and maybe then it would've been less embarrassing.

"N-No! No, I'm sorry, I didn't see where I was going... it's my fault."

[cosmocaller]

"I don't think either of us were looking..."

HIs response is kind of awkward, resisting the urge to shamefully hang his head as he lets her go. First he bumps into a girl, and then he has to grab her so she doesn't fall... ack, Koujaku would practically die hearing about this.

"Still, ah... sorry about that. It's so late, I don't think anyone can pay attention to much of anything." He tries to laugh, hoping humor will help him distract from how hot he feels his face becoming.

She really does look exhausted, and Aoba is sure he doesn't look much better—but once he gets a better look at her... up close, she really doesn't look like she's from around here.

Maybe it's not right to ask, she's just some random woman he bumped into at the convenience store, but... it's really not often that new people move to Midorijima, since Toue's practically got the place under lock and key—and it's odd, since the Old Residential District isn't the most... desirable place to be.

"...Say, uh... this is probably a weird question, but... you're not from around here, are you? I've never seen you before."

[cosmocaller]

( 001, a convenience store past midnight ! )

It was a long day at work.

His shifts aren't really that long—not typically—but by the time he got done helping poor Junker and Mr. Haga clean up the shop after the kids came by and wrecked the place... it'd been pretty late. It didn't help that he had deliveries to run out after.

At first, Aoba doesn't even realize how late it is. It's not until he pats the small bundle of fur in his bag and asks Ren what time it is—(It's 12:30 AM, Aoba,)— that he realizes it's been ages since he's eaten, and he's exhausted to boot. It's way too late to come home and cook and he'd feel absolutely gut-wrenched asking Granny to make anything this late, even though she'd probably insist anyway. The lady would probably still be up, worrying, if he hadn't already told her work was keeping him late.

Aoba resolves to head to the nearest convenience store instead. He'll eat something proper in the morning—Granny will have his head if when she finds out he was buying packaged dinners, and she'll probably scowl at him while making breakfast tomorrow.

Truthfully, Aoba's not paying the greatest attention when he walks into the store. He catches sight of someone he's never seen around the Old Residential District before, but he doesn't give her more than a single glance. She doesn't necessarily look like she's out of place, so there's not much reason to talk to her.

...At least, not until he accidentally bumps into her as she's coming out of the aisle he's going into, and he has to lean forward to catch her so she doesn't tumble onto her ass.

Huh. She's... really short.

"S-Sorry...! I totally didn't see you there, that's my bad."

[rprnemes]

Send me a “👀 + a question” and my muse has to answer honestly!

[asarigg]

All "Koujaku"s Aoba has ever said

194 specifically

bitch actually beat THE simp, it's insane

NSFW 🤓

[cosmocaller]

" Yeesh... one more phone call, and I might just lose my mind. "