Mikaela B.

[paradoxicalloopy]

As the big master said once

ReVAMP!!

Mikaela B.

My absolute darling, could do no wrong, Mikaela, got a few bites taken out of her by that.. at maximum, tolerable shepherd, that she's been spotted talking to.

And after her small identity crisis, while maaaybe her entire body was struggling on a line of non existence and existence, she got out of that state of depression and leveled up! Good for you Mikaela!

Anyway, continue your girlbossy manipulating in peace!! Ripley is still on the chopping block for you :D Just this time it's very personal.

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hums, silent for a moment. He's practiced this before. It's basically a daily routine when it comes to talking to anyone, like washing your hands before a meal.]

"Well, I've been doing fine. Just fine, really,"

[A pause, a sigh.]

"I'm not that interesting. The days are structured and pretty simple, I just follow orders or clean up the outside. Rather monotonous."

[There's a small shift in her posture, voice light and almost sweet, the visor making it rather difficult to look into her dull eyes and understand how she's feeling. He's trying to be more excited about things, really, but he feels so stale.]

"I don't go out with many people, so this is nice! Being cooped up all day, only going to the store every now and then, making any sort of friend is..." difficult."

[Please be enough.]

[mikaela-b]

"Not many people?"

[Never enough.]

"I would assume you'd get along with atleast some of your coworkers."

[Mika hadnt actually seen a lot of people ever leave the estate. But something rubbed her wrong about the place.]

[She hadnt gotten her usual satusfaction watching the Mannor. It had felt more like, she was at the front of a room, being dissected by sheer eye alone.]

[Lets say, Mikaela hurried off rather quickly.]

[And she'll trust her gut on things, afterall its never done her wrong. Even if she begged to differ on some days.]

"I mean! Livia always found you sooo cute, Enano! I'd assume you'd have that effect on atleast someone else."

[Her voice strains audibly at the mention.]

[Well. Atleast everythings a lot easier if the- Ripley doesnt have any closer friends.]

[ripley-guthound]

"Um, thanks?"

[Ripley tilted his head, feeling a faint warm rise in his face. Cute? He didn't even feel nice or decent. Anyone he talked to would call him mean, hollow, rarely ever anything kind.]

"Cute.........."

[One time they compared her to a mouse. Mice are alright, but a mouse? The kind you trap and toss into the garbage? Vermin?]

"But my coworkers prefer to stick to themselves, we only ever talk at maybe lunch... They're all about getting work done quickly so we can move onto our own business."

[They being like, maybe five other people. Excluding the Silvercains, who were some of the few people that actually willingly talked to her.]

"Honestly, they'd like you more than me..."

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela considered it. Except a few detached friendships and- Grimm, she'd never bothered to seem approachable.]

"Because of my charming smile, ofcourse."

[Chuckling, they came to a halt.]

[It was somewhere in the outskirts of town, street thin and deserted of mostly all people.]

"Here we are!"

[The building she motioned to looked normal, barely smaller than the ones around it. The windows were those colored mosaics you couldnt peer into, and the door had a warranty letter taped to it.]

[The only indicator that this was even a shop came from a foldable sign that read:]

["Closed thursdays"]

[How vague.]

[She nudged him to get off before she herself stepped onto the pavement.]

"Its my favorite Cafe!"

[Mika explained, with a type of fond tone you'd associate with childhood memories.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shifted off the motorcycle, stumbling for a moment before looking up at the cafe, lips tightening into a thin line.]

"It's certainly quaint."

[Would she have to use her sick days after eating anything from here?]

"How many health inspectors visit a day?"

[She followed in after Mikaela, hands now in her pockets, her head spinning in almost every direction. Should she report this ...? My goodness.]

"...I'm kidding, it's cute!"

[Ripley fidgets with her phone.]

"I usually make my coffee at home, do you have any suggestions for what I should order?"

[Why did she say that, she's gonna order the fucking— rat shit sprinkle-whip wrap.]

[mikaela-b]

[It was quite cozy actually. It looked pretty clean even.]

[From the entrance she could see almost all the tables, which were completely empty.]

[A younger girl with ginger hair swept the floor at the other end of the room, who promptly froze seeing Mikaela, before leaving as soundlessly as possible.]

[Not her problem, nope, nope.]

[Mika leaned forward against the counter, ringing the bell a few times.]

"Depends."

[She glanced at the menu that was pinned to thr wall.]

"I usually get the daily drink."

[Something rustles in the room behind the counter, before an elder woman steps out on cue.]

[Her face seems to go through all 5 stages of grief before settling on tired acceptance.]

"Mikaela."

...

"..You're back. ....Again."

"...Aaaaand ...i'd like my usual! ...Wwwith one of those chocolate croissants?"

[Mikas smirk is wide, taunting and clearly having the upper hand in whatever situation is unfolding infront of Ripley.]

"And you?"

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley blinked, watching the girl leave the room in quite a rush once Mikaela entered. Alright, that adds to her deck of topics. With deep breath, she smiled and fixed her posture, hands folded in front of her as she peered at the menu. It's a cafe, for Christ's sake—]

"May I just have a coffee, please?"

[He glances over at Mikaela. Play it up.]

"Oh, uh, Just black, with.. maybe a... a couple of cookies? I.. I can pay for my own, Mikaela..."

[Grin and bear it. You've lived through the worst things imaginable, a damn cookie from a sketchy joint won't hurt you.]

"...You know each other?"

[Getting a bit of information wouldn't hurt either. Curiosity killed the cat, but so did health code violations.]

[mikaela-b]

[The woman looked at him like he just asked the stupidest but also most offending question.]

[There were a few moments of silence before the ladies face softened and she sighed.]

[Mikaela took that as a sign to nudge Ripley, guiding the pair to sit at a table in the back, next to one of thr mosaic windows.]

"That lady really knows how to hold a grudge i'll tell you that much."

[She chuckled.]

[The woman had dissapeared back into the room she came out of. The place was entirely quiet, except for a light tune coming from somewhere, and the distant noise of a coffee machine.]

"Didnt kniw you're a black coffee type of person, i would've dubbed you for a sweeter kind."

[ripley-guthound]

"I'm unpredictable."

[Ripley lets out a soft laugh, hands folded in front of him. For a moment, she just stares. Her eyes were hollow, deep, much like an empty well. Her plain, mild-bloodied lips were curved in a smile that even an experienced mortician couldn't bring life into. The deep bags under her eyes and the minor scarring around her face... The silence was so uncomfortable.]

[Then, the smile grew bigger. She flicked a small, rolled up ball of paper at Mika, the light in her eyes returning.]

"How's your life going, Mikaela? I feel like I barely know anything about you too, I mean seeing an old face it's..."

[It's horrifying. You're not supposed to be here.]

"... It's just great."

[mikaela-b]

[She tapped the table, a steady rhythm. A habit?]

"Theres not much to me."

[For someone like Mikaela you would assume that she'd love to boast about her achievements- or just talk about herself in general.]

[If anything the returned question seems to throw her off.]

[The silence stretched akwardly until she decided that she probably cant leave it at that.]

"..."

[She sighed.]

"...I've had a rough couple of weeks, ..but everythings turning out fine."

[Next time she'll pick someone thats.. actually it really hadnt even been her fault. It was wrong time and wrong place, if anything.]

"This guy i knew? Found half dead slumped over in a backstreet by some- nobody whore- but he died in his coma a few days ago now."

[In no way or situation can her tone be interpretated as sorrow or grief. She's not even trying to hide it. Why bother?]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hummed, nodding along with a faint smile. She was holding herself together pretty well, letting out an almost amused huff at the mention of the crime.]

"How unfortunate, losing that friend of yours. Loss is such an awful thing..."

[Desensitization, chapter... 14?]

"And the... Whore? Poor thing."

[He noted the tapping, counting in 4/4. Where was that coffee? He skipped breakfast... If he had slept properly for once, maybe he wouldn't have the heaviest eyelids. Or maybe he was just bored.]

"Moving to the city has its pros and cons— but I only have to worry about the wildlife getting curious, living in the woods and all. I'm honestly just glad things are getting better for both of us... Back then, everything was so awful. But..."

[Manipulation, chapter 2.]

"At least we have each other again, hm? It's hard being so alone... I was worried I'd go crazy or somethin'! I'm... I'm glad it's you and not anyone else..."

[mikaela-b]

"You-"

[Her face lights up with actual emotion.]

"Really?.."

[Honestly, she was sure Ripley wasnt that fond of her, afterall she hadnt been the kindest to the ravenette in their childhoof.]

[She clasps her hands infront of her, thinking for a moment.]

[Ofcourse. Anyone would be glad that you out of all people lived. Afterall, none of them wouldve had the dedication she has.]

[And anyone else would've atleast beat the man infront of her bloody for the betrayal. But not her! Isnt she gracious? Kind? Ofcourse anyone would be glad!]

"I think it was for the better that we met, and that we did so now."

[The older woman brings out their coffees, only Ripleys still steaming. Mikaela didnt seem to pick up on the passive aggressive nature of it as she took a sip.]

[A small plate with a few cookies was placed infront of him, they looked homemade.]

"I mean, you're gonna help keep the legacy alive right?"

[It sounded less like a question and more like her back checking.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley thanked the woman and looked at her coffee, wondering if she should worry about any spit. Who cares, she's consumed worse...]

"The legacy?"

[He takes a sip of the coffee, feeling the bitter, molten liquid burn down her throat, yet leaving a warm feeling all around her.]

"I suppose you mean having a family, huh?"

[Ripley hums, feet tapping under the table. He took another sip, setting the cup back down in silence before looking up at Mikaela, giving her the stupidest little smile he could muster up.]

"I haven't met anyone... A-And I don't think I'd be good at it..."

[She shrinks in her seat, rubbing the back of her neck with a soft sigh, trying to force a little tear to help her eyes give that sad, kicked puppy shine.]

"I'm sure that's not what you want to hear, is it...? What would you do, Mikaela? You know— in my place?"

[mikaela-b]

[She almost chocked on her coffee, mqnaging to swallow everything down before coighing into her ellbow.]

"Thats not-"

[Mika was astonished.]

[Flicking against his forehead, she let out a heavy sigh.]

"The circle? ...of.."

[She seemed unsure of herself, trailing off. Resuming the tapping again, Mika was quite easily read.]

"I mean i know you werent.. there for most of it, but his blood still runs in your veins, and that makes you just as pure as me."

[Shaking her head, she reached forward clasping Ripleys hand in hers, the smile, although straining somewhat, returned.]

"Everything will be so much easier now that we are together!"

"If I was in your place i'd be grateful that im still getting the chance.. after everything."

[ripley-guthound]

"Pure?"

[Ripely tilted his head to the side, before smiling again, a soft glow to his cheeks. Pure, after everything I've done? Pure, after all my sins? Pure, after— She shakes her head, taking a long swing of coffee.]

"Ah! I suppose that's a good way to look at it, huh? You have a better way of looking at everything, I'm way too negative... another chance, with you."

[He takes another sip of his coffee, gripping Mikaela's hands tighter and squeezing, thumb running across her knuckles.]

"Remember how everyone used to complain about how I cried too much, was a downer, acting like I have a big stick up my ass?"

[She laughed, foot tapping under the table again. Change the subject, change the subject.]

"You especially hated my sobbing, calling me a big baby... Runt of the litter, I suppose?"

[They typically kill the runts, knowing they won't survive.]

[mikaela-b]

[Mika recalled the memory fondly. God- his face HAD looked funny back then.]

[She clicks her tongue.]

"I really did! I never understood how such a small body could make this much noise!"

[Chuckling, it's clearly amused by the recall of memories. Even if she was forced to apologize far too many times than her liking.]

"You were always so emotional over things- but, well- look at you now!"

[She motioned at Ripley, leaning forward. Mikaela spoke with genuine amazement.]

"You lived! The others didnt! That proves something doesnt it?

[Clasping his hand between both of hers now, she was pretty much on the table at this point.]

"You're changed! You're better than any of them."

[Mika didn't express any regret over how she had treated Ripley before, I mean.. she's always been very closed minded, so that her view on her action hasnt changed isnt surprising.]

[Yet she's still trying to make an attempt to restart their relationship.]

[There was no way the elder woman did not pick up what conversation they were having. She was sorting something behind the counter, but her face showed no reaction to anything she must be hearing.]

[ripley-guthound]

"You really think so ...?"

[Ripley sighed softly, looking at her coffee cup and swirling around whatever was left. He wondered, had his emotional self faded? Or had she run herself dry of tears?]

"I'm sorry I was so bitter in our other interactions, really, it's just hard for me to connect with people. It seems like you've changed, too..."

[Fuck you.]

"My work doesn't allow me to go out much, and we rarely spoke on kinder terms as kids, but I'll try and ... Fix things, between us."

[She gave a small tilt of her head, wondering just how far she could push her luck. How far can she keep playing this stupid game of "the lost and hopeless lamb."]

"Next meet up is on me, alright?"

[You're not going to hurt me again. None of you will.]

"And... This place isn't as bad as I thought it would be."

[mikaela-b]

[Mika clicks her tongue. A habit she must've picked up from her mother. Although taught not to judge, Mikaelas specific lineage must've had some special treatment.]

[She leans back into the cushioned seat.]

"Dont fret about it."

[You'll be fixed sooner than later.]

[You and your wretched cousin.]

['Just as pure' how gullible. But its okay. You have the potential. ...and just because Livia messed up.. you're not unsalvegable.]

"I cant imagine that you earn a lot working for some snobby rich folks. So, I wont mind paying next time too."

[Tracing the rim of her mug, she flashes Rupley a sly grin.]

"But dont say.. you're trying to cut this short?"

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hums, silent for a moment. He's practiced this before. It's basically a daily routine when it comes to talking to anyone, like washing your hands before a meal.]

"Well, I've been doing fine. Just fine, really,"

[A pause, a sigh.]

"I'm not that interesting. The days are structured and pretty simple, I just follow orders or clean up the outside. Rather monotonous."

[There's a small shift in her posture, voice light and almost sweet, the visor making it rather difficult to look into her dull eyes and understand how she's feeling. He's trying to be more excited about things, really, but he feels so stale.]

"I don't go out with many people, so this is nice! Being cooped up all day, only going to the store every now and then, making any sort of friend is..." difficult."

[Please be enough.]

[mikaela-b]

"Not many people?"

[Never enough.]

"I would assume you'd get along with atleast some of your coworkers."

[Mika hadnt actually seen a lot of people ever leave the estate. But something rubbed her wrong about the place.]

[She hadnt gotten her usual satusfaction watching the Mannor. It had felt more like, she was at the front of a room, being dissected by sheer eye alone.]

[Lets say, Mikaela hurried off rather quickly.]

[And she'll trust her gut on things, afterall its never done her wrong. Even if she begged to differ on some days.]

"I mean! Livia always found you sooo cute, Enano! I'd assume you'd have that effect on atleast someone else."

[Her voice strains audibly at the mention.]

[Well. Atleast everythings a lot easier if the- Ripley doesnt have any closer friends.]

[ripley-guthound]

"Um, thanks?"

[Ripley tilted his head, feeling a faint warm rise in his face. Cute? He didn't even feel nice or decent. Anyone he talked to would call him mean, hollow, rarely ever anything kind.]

"Cute.........."

[One time they compared her to a mouse. Mice are alright, but a mouse? The kind you trap and toss into the garbage? Vermin?]

"But my coworkers prefer to stick to themselves, we only ever talk at maybe lunch... They're all about getting work done quickly so we can move onto our own business."

[They being like, maybe five other people. Excluding the Silvercains, who were some of the few people that actually willingly talked to her.]

"Honestly, they'd like you more than me..."

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela considered it. Except a few detached friendships and- Grimm, she'd never bothered to seem approachable.]

"Because of my charming smile, ofcourse."

[Chuckling, they came to a halt.]

[It was somewhere in the outskirts of town, street thin and deserted of mostly all people.]

"Here we are!"

[The building she motioned to looked normal, barely smaller than the ones around it. The windows were those colored mosaics you couldnt peer into, and the door had a warranty letter taped to it.]

[The only indicator that this was even a shop came from a foldable sign that read:]

["Closed thursdays"]

[How vague.]

[She nudged him to get off before she herself stepped onto the pavement.]

"Its my favorite Cafe!"

[Mika explained, with a type of fond tone you'd associate with childhood memories.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shifted off the motorcycle, stumbling for a moment before looking up at the cafe, lips tightening into a thin line.]

"It's certainly quaint."

[Would she have to use her sick days after eating anything from here?]

"How many health inspectors visit a day?"

[She followed in after Mikaela, hands now in her pockets, her head spinning in almost every direction. Should she report this ...? My goodness.]

"...I'm kidding, it's cute!"

[Ripley fidgets with her phone.]

"I usually make my coffee at home, do you have any suggestions for what I should order?"

[Why did she say that, she's gonna order the fucking— rat shit sprinkle-whip wrap.]

[mikaela-b]

[It was quite cozy actually. It looked pretty clean even.]

[From the entrance she could see almost all the tables, which were completely empty.]

[A younger girl with ginger hair swept the floor at the other end of the room, who promptly froze seeing Mikaela, before leaving as soundlessly as possible.]

[Not her problem, nope, nope.]

[Mika leaned forward against the counter, ringing the bell a few times.]

"Depends."

[She glanced at the menu that was pinned to thr wall.]

"I usually get the daily drink."

[Something rustles in the room behind the counter, before an elder woman steps out on cue.]

[Her face seems to go through all 5 stages of grief before settling on tired acceptance.]

"Mikaela."

...

"..You're back. ....Again."

"...Aaaaand ...i'd like my usual! ...Wwwith one of those chocolate croissants?"

[Mikas smirk is wide, taunting and clearly having the upper hand in whatever situation is unfolding infront of Ripley.]

"And you?"

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley blinked, watching the girl leave the room in quite a rush once Mikaela entered. Alright, that adds to her deck of topics. With deep breath, she smiled and fixed her posture, hands folded in front of her as she peered at the menu. It's a cafe, for Christ's sake—]

"May I just have a coffee, please?"

[He glances over at Mikaela. Play it up.]

"Oh, uh, Just black, with.. maybe a... a couple of cookies? I.. I can pay for my own, Mikaela..."

[Grin and bear it. You've lived through the worst things imaginable, a damn cookie from a sketchy joint won't hurt you.]

"...You know each other?"

[Getting a bit of information wouldn't hurt either. Curiosity killed the cat, but so did health code violations.]

[mikaela-b]

[The woman looked at him like he just asked the stupidest but also most offending question.]

[There were a few moments of silence before the ladies face softened and she sighed.]

[Mikaela took that as a sign to nudge Ripley, guiding the pair to sit at a table in the back, next to one of thr mosaic windows.]

"That lady really knows how to hold a grudge i'll tell you that much."

[She chuckled.]

[The woman had dissapeared back into the room she came out of. The place was entirely quiet, except for a light tune coming from somewhere, and the distant noise of a coffee machine.]

"Didnt kniw you're a black coffee type of person, i would've dubbed you for a sweeter kind."

[ripley-guthound]

"I'm unpredictable."

[Ripley lets out a soft laugh, hands folded in front of him. For a moment, she just stares. Her eyes were hollow, deep, much like an empty well. Her plain, mild-bloodied lips were curved in a smile that even an experienced mortician couldn't bring life into. The deep bags under her eyes and the minor scarring around her face... The silence was so uncomfortable.]

[Then, the smile grew bigger. She flicked a small, rolled up ball of paper at Mika, the light in her eyes returning.]

"How's your life going, Mikaela? I feel like I barely know anything about you too, I mean seeing an old face it's..."

[It's horrifying. You're not supposed to be here.]

"... It's just great."

[mikaela-b]

[She tapped the table, a steady rhythm. A habit?]

"Theres not much to me."

[For someone like Mikaela you would assume that she'd love to boast about her achievements- or just talk about herself in general.]

[If anything the returned question seems to throw her off.]

[The silence stretched akwardly until she decided that she probably cant leave it at that.]

"..."

[She sighed.]

"...I've had a rough couple of weeks, ..but everythings turning out fine."

[Next time she'll pick someone thats.. actually it really hadnt even been her fault. It was wrong time and wrong place, if anything.]

"This guy i knew? Found half dead slumped over in a backstreet by some- nobody whore- but he died in his coma a few days ago now."

[In no way or situation can her tone be interpretated as sorrow or grief. She's not even trying to hide it. Why bother?]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hummed, nodding along with a faint smile. She was holding herself together pretty well, letting out an almost amused huff at the mention of the crime.]

"How unfortunate, losing that friend of yours. Loss is such an awful thing..."

[Desensitization, chapter... 14?]

"And the... Whore? Poor thing."

[He noted the tapping, counting in 4/4. Where was that coffee? He skipped breakfast... If he had slept properly for once, maybe he wouldn't have the heaviest eyelids. Or maybe he was just bored.]

"Moving to the city has its pros and cons— but I only have to worry about the wildlife getting curious, living in the woods and all. I'm honestly just glad things are getting better for both of us... Back then, everything was so awful. But..."

[Manipulation, chapter 2.]

"At least we have each other again, hm? It's hard being so alone... I was worried I'd go crazy or somethin'! I'm... I'm glad it's you and not anyone else..."

[mikaela-b]

"You-"

[Her face lights up with actual emotion.]

"Really?.."

[Honestly, she was sure Ripley wasnt that fond of her, afterall she hadnt been the kindest to the ravenette in their childhoof.]

[She clasps her hands infront of her, thinking for a moment.]

[Ofcourse. Anyone would be glad that you out of all people lived. Afterall, none of them wouldve had the dedication she has.]

[And anyone else would've atleast beat the man infront of her bloody for the betrayal. But not her! Isnt she gracious? Kind? Ofcourse anyone would be glad!]

"I think it was for the better that we met, and that we did so now."

[The older woman brings out their coffees, only Ripleys still steaming. Mikaela didnt seem to pick up on the passive aggressive nature of it as she took a sip.]

[A small plate with a few cookies was placed infront of him, they looked homemade.]

"I mean, you're gonna help keep the legacy alive right?"

[It sounded less like a question and more like her back checking.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley thanked the woman and looked at her coffee, wondering if she should worry about any spit. Who cares, she's consumed worse...]

"The legacy?"

[He takes a sip of the coffee, feeling the bitter, molten liquid burn down her throat, yet leaving a warm feeling all around her.]

"I suppose you mean having a family, huh?"

[Ripley hums, feet tapping under the table. He took another sip, setting the cup back down in silence before looking up at Mikaela, giving her the stupidest little smile he could muster up.]

"I haven't met anyone... A-And I don't think I'd be good at it..."

[She shrinks in her seat, rubbing the back of her neck with a soft sigh, trying to force a little tear to help her eyes give that sad, kicked puppy shine.]

"I'm sure that's not what you want to hear, is it...? What would you do, Mikaela? You know— in my place?"

[mikaela-b]

[She almost chocked on her coffee, mqnaging to swallow everything down before coighing into her ellbow.]

"Thats not-"

[Mika was astonished.]

[Flicking against his forehead, she let out a heavy sigh.]

"The circle? ...of.."

[She seemed unsure of herself, trailing off. Resuming the tapping again, Mika was quite easily read.]

"I mean i know you werent.. there for most of it, but his blood still runs in your veins, and that makes you just as pure as me."

[Shaking her head, she reached forward clasping Ripleys hand in hers, the smile, although straining somewhat, returned.]

"Everything will be so much easier now that we are together!"

"If I was in your place i'd be grateful that im still getting the chance.. after everything."

[ripley-guthound]

"Pure?"

[Ripely tilted his head to the side, before smiling again, a soft glow to his cheeks. Pure, after everything I've done? Pure, after all my sins? Pure, after— She shakes her head, taking a long swing of coffee.]

"Ah! I suppose that's a good way to look at it, huh? You have a better way of looking at everything, I'm way too negative... another chance, with you."

[He takes another sip of his coffee, gripping Mikaela's hands tighter and squeezing, thumb running across her knuckles.]

"Remember how everyone used to complain about how I cried too much, was a downer, acting like I have a big stick up my ass?"

[She laughed, foot tapping under the table again. Change the subject, change the subject.]

"You especially hated my sobbing, calling me a big baby... Runt of the litter, I suppose?"

[They typically kill the runts, knowing they won't survive.]

[mikaela-b]

[Mika recalled the memory fondly. God- his face HAD looked funny back then.]

[She clicks her tongue.]

"I really did! I never understood how such a small body could make this much noise!"

[Chuckling, it's clearly amused by the recall of memories. Even if she was forced to apologize far too many times than her liking.]

"You were always so emotional over things- but, well- look at you now!"

[She motioned at Ripley, leaning forward. Mikaela spoke with genuine amazement.]

"You lived! The others didnt! That proves something doesnt it?

[Clasping his hand between both of hers now, she was pretty much on the table at this point.]

"You're changed! You're better than any of them."

[Mika didn't express any regret over how she had treated Ripley before, I mean.. she's always been very closed minded, so that her view on her action hasnt changed isnt surprising.]

[Yet she's still trying to make an attempt to restart their relationship.]

[There was no way the elder woman did not pick up what conversation they were having. She was sorting something behind the counter, but her face showed no reaction to anything she must be hearing.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hums, silent for a moment. He's practiced this before. It's basically a daily routine when it comes to talking to anyone, like washing your hands before a meal.]

"Well, I've been doing fine. Just fine, really,"

[A pause, a sigh.]

"I'm not that interesting. The days are structured and pretty simple, I just follow orders or clean up the outside. Rather monotonous."

[There's a small shift in her posture, voice light and almost sweet, the visor making it rather difficult to look into her dull eyes and understand how she's feeling. He's trying to be more excited about things, really, but he feels so stale.]

"I don't go out with many people, so this is nice! Being cooped up all day, only going to the store every now and then, making any sort of friend is..." difficult."

[Please be enough.]

[mikaela-b]

"Not many people?"

[Never enough.]

"I would assume you'd get along with atleast some of your coworkers."

[Mika hadnt actually seen a lot of people ever leave the estate. But something rubbed her wrong about the place.]

[She hadnt gotten her usual satusfaction watching the Mannor. It had felt more like, she was at the front of a room, being dissected by sheer eye alone.]

[Lets say, Mikaela hurried off rather quickly.]

[And she'll trust her gut on things, afterall its never done her wrong. Even if she begged to differ on some days.]

"I mean! Livia always found you sooo cute, Enano! I'd assume you'd have that effect on atleast someone else."

[Her voice strains audibly at the mention.]

[Well. Atleast everythings a lot easier if the- Ripley doesnt have any closer friends.]

[ripley-guthound]

"Um, thanks?"

[Ripley tilted his head, feeling a faint warm rise in his face. Cute? He didn't even feel nice or decent. Anyone he talked to would call him mean, hollow, rarely ever anything kind.]

"Cute.........."

[One time they compared her to a mouse. Mice are alright, but a mouse? The kind you trap and toss into the garbage? Vermin?]

"But my coworkers prefer to stick to themselves, we only ever talk at maybe lunch... They're all about getting work done quickly so we can move onto our own business."

[They being like, maybe five other people. Excluding the Silvercains, who were some of the few people that actually willingly talked to her.]

"Honestly, they'd like you more than me..."

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela considered it. Except a few detached friendships and- Grimm, she'd never bothered to seem approachable.]

"Because of my charming smile, ofcourse."

[Chuckling, they came to a halt.]

[It was somewhere in the outskirts of town, street thin and deserted of mostly all people.]

"Here we are!"

[The building she motioned to looked normal, barely smaller than the ones around it. The windows were those colored mosaics you couldnt peer into, and the door had a warranty letter taped to it.]

[The only indicator that this was even a shop came from a foldable sign that read:]

["Closed thursdays"]

[How vague.]

[She nudged him to get off before she herself stepped onto the pavement.]

"Its my favorite Cafe!"

[Mika explained, with a type of fond tone you'd associate with childhood memories.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shifted off the motorcycle, stumbling for a moment before looking up at the cafe, lips tightening into a thin line.]

"It's certainly quaint."

[Would she have to use her sick days after eating anything from here?]

"How many health inspectors visit a day?"

[She followed in after Mikaela, hands now in her pockets, her head spinning in almost every direction. Should she report this ...? My goodness.]

"...I'm kidding, it's cute!"

[Ripley fidgets with her phone.]

"I usually make my coffee at home, do you have any suggestions for what I should order?"

[Why did she say that, she's gonna order the fucking— rat shit sprinkle-whip wrap.]

[mikaela-b]

[It was quite cozy actually. It looked pretty clean even.]

[From the entrance she could see almost all the tables, which were completely empty.]

[A younger girl with ginger hair swept the floor at the other end of the room, who promptly froze seeing Mikaela, before leaving as soundlessly as possible.]

[Not her problem, nope, nope.]

[Mika leaned forward against the counter, ringing the bell a few times.]

"Depends."

[She glanced at the menu that was pinned to thr wall.]

"I usually get the daily drink."

[Something rustles in the room behind the counter, before an elder woman steps out on cue.]

[Her face seems to go through all 5 stages of grief before settling on tired acceptance.]

"Mikaela."

...

"..You're back. ....Again."

"...Aaaaand ...i'd like my usual! ...Wwwith one of those chocolate croissants?"

[Mikas smirk is wide, taunting and clearly having the upper hand in whatever situation is unfolding infront of Ripley.]

"And you?"

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley blinked, watching the girl leave the room in quite a rush once Mikaela entered. Alright, that adds to her deck of topics. With deep breath, she smiled and fixed her posture, hands folded in front of her as she peered at the menu. It's a cafe, for Christ's sake—]

"May I just have a coffee, please?"

[He glances over at Mikaela. Play it up.]

"Oh, uh, Just black, with.. maybe a... a couple of cookies? I.. I can pay for my own, Mikaela..."

[Grin and bear it. You've lived through the worst things imaginable, a damn cookie from a sketchy joint won't hurt you.]

"...You know each other?"

[Getting a bit of information wouldn't hurt either. Curiosity killed the cat, but so did health code violations.]

[mikaela-b]

[The woman looked at him like he just asked the stupidest but also most offending question.]

[There were a few moments of silence before the ladies face softened and she sighed.]

[Mikaela took that as a sign to nudge Ripley, guiding the pair to sit at a table in the back, next to one of thr mosaic windows.]

"That lady really knows how to hold a grudge i'll tell you that much."

[She chuckled.]

[The woman had dissapeared back into the room she came out of. The place was entirely quiet, except for a light tune coming from somewhere, and the distant noise of a coffee machine.]

"Didnt kniw you're a black coffee type of person, i would've dubbed you for a sweeter kind."

[ripley-guthound]

"I'm unpredictable."

[Ripley lets out a soft laugh, hands folded in front of him. For a moment, she just stares. Her eyes were hollow, deep, much like an empty well. Her plain, mild-bloodied lips were curved in a smile that even an experienced mortician couldn't bring life into. The deep bags under her eyes and the minor scarring around her face... The silence was so uncomfortable.]

[Then, the smile grew bigger. She flicked a small, rolled up ball of paper at Mika, the light in her eyes returning.]

"How's your life going, Mikaela? I feel like I barely know anything about you too, I mean seeing an old face it's..."

[It's horrifying. You're not supposed to be here.]

"... It's just great."

[mikaela-b]

[She tapped the table, a steady rhythm. A habit?]

"Theres not much to me."

[For someone like Mikaela you would assume that she'd love to boast about her achievements- or just talk about herself in general.]

[If anything the returned question seems to throw her off.]

[The silence stretched akwardly until she decided that she probably cant leave it at that.]

"..."

[She sighed.]

"...I've had a rough couple of weeks, ..but everythings turning out fine."

[Next time she'll pick someone thats.. actually it really hadnt even been her fault. It was wrong time and wrong place, if anything.]

"This guy i knew? Found half dead slumped over in a backstreet by some- nobody whore- but he died in his coma a few days ago now."

[In no way or situation can her tone be interpretated as sorrow or grief. She's not even trying to hide it. Why bother?]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hummed, nodding along with a faint smile. She was holding herself together pretty well, letting out an almost amused huff at the mention of the crime.]

"How unfortunate, losing that friend of yours. Loss is such an awful thing..."

[Desensitization, chapter... 14?]

"And the... Whore? Poor thing."

[He noted the tapping, counting in 4/4. Where was that coffee? He skipped breakfast... If he had slept properly for once, maybe he wouldn't have the heaviest eyelids. Or maybe he was just bored.]

"Moving to the city has its pros and cons— but I only have to worry about the wildlife getting curious, living in the woods and all. I'm honestly just glad things are getting better for both of us... Back then, everything was so awful. But..."

[Manipulation, chapter 2.]

"At least we have each other again, hm? It's hard being so alone... I was worried I'd go crazy or somethin'! I'm... I'm glad it's you and not anyone else..."

[mikaela-b]

"You-"

[Her face lights up with actual emotion.]

"Really?.."

[Honestly, she was sure Ripley wasnt that fond of her, afterall she hadnt been the kindest to the ravenette in their childhoof.]

[She clasps her hands infront of her, thinking for a moment.]

[Ofcourse. Anyone would be glad that you out of all people lived. Afterall, none of them wouldve had the dedication she has.]

[And anyone else would've atleast beat the man infront of her bloody for the betrayal. But not her! Isnt she gracious? Kind? Ofcourse anyone would be glad!]

"I think it was for the better that we met, and that we did so now."

[The older woman brings out their coffees, only Ripleys still steaming. Mikaela didnt seem to pick up on the passive aggressive nature of it as she took a sip.]

[A small plate with a few cookies was placed infront of him, they looked homemade.]

"I mean, you're gonna help keep the legacy alive right?"

[It sounded less like a question and more like her back checking.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley thanked the woman and looked at her coffee, wondering if she should worry about any spit. Who cares, she's consumed worse...]

"The legacy?"

[He takes a sip of the coffee, feeling the bitter, molten liquid burn down her throat, yet leaving a warm feeling all around her.]

"I suppose you mean having a family, huh?"

[Ripley hums, feet tapping under the table. He took another sip, setting the cup back down in silence before looking up at Mikaela, giving her the stupidest little smile he could muster up.]

"I haven't met anyone... A-And I don't think I'd be good at it..."

[She shrinks in her seat, rubbing the back of her neck with a soft sigh, trying to force a little tear to help her eyes give that sad, kicked puppy shine.]

"I'm sure that's not what you want to hear, is it...? What would you do, Mikaela? You know— in my place?"

[mikaela-b]

[She almost chocked on her coffee, mqnaging to swallow everything down before coighing into her ellbow.]

"Thats not-"

[Mika was astonished.]

[Flicking against his forehead, she let out a heavy sigh.]

"The circle? ...of.."

[She seemed unsure of herself, trailing off. Resuming the tapping again, Mika was quite easily read.]

"I mean i know you werent.. there for most of it, but his blood still runs in your veins, and that makes you just as pure as me."

[Shaking her head, she reached forward clasping Ripleys hand in hers, the smile, although straining somewhat, returned.]

"Everything will be so much easier now that we are together!"

"If I was in your place i'd be grateful that im still getting the chance.. after everything."

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hums, silent for a moment. He's practiced this before. It's basically a daily routine when it comes to talking to anyone, like washing your hands before a meal.]

"Well, I've been doing fine. Just fine, really,"

[A pause, a sigh.]

"I'm not that interesting. The days are structured and pretty simple, I just follow orders or clean up the outside. Rather monotonous."

[There's a small shift in her posture, voice light and almost sweet, the visor making it rather difficult to look into her dull eyes and understand how she's feeling. He's trying to be more excited about things, really, but he feels so stale.]

"I don't go out with many people, so this is nice! Being cooped up all day, only going to the store every now and then, making any sort of friend is..." difficult."

[Please be enough.]

[mikaela-b]

"Not many people?"

[Never enough.]

"I would assume you'd get along with atleast some of your coworkers."

[Mika hadnt actually seen a lot of people ever leave the estate. But something rubbed her wrong about the place.]

[She hadnt gotten her usual satusfaction watching the Mannor. It had felt more like, she was at the front of a room, being dissected by sheer eye alone.]

[Lets say, Mikaela hurried off rather quickly.]

[And she'll trust her gut on things, afterall its never done her wrong. Even if she begged to differ on some days.]

"I mean! Livia always found you sooo cute, Enano! I'd assume you'd have that effect on atleast someone else."

[Her voice strains audibly at the mention.]

[Well. Atleast everythings a lot easier if the- Ripley doesnt have any closer friends.]

[ripley-guthound]

"Um, thanks?"

[Ripley tilted his head, feeling a faint warm rise in his face. Cute? He didn't even feel nice or decent. Anyone he talked to would call him mean, hollow, rarely ever anything kind.]

"Cute.........."

[One time they compared her to a mouse. Mice are alright, but a mouse? The kind you trap and toss into the garbage? Vermin?]

"But my coworkers prefer to stick to themselves, we only ever talk at maybe lunch... They're all about getting work done quickly so we can move onto our own business."

[They being like, maybe five other people. Excluding the Silvercains, who were some of the few people that actually willingly talked to her.]

"Honestly, they'd like you more than me..."

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela considered it. Except a few detached friendships and- Grimm, she'd never bothered to seem approachable.]

"Because of my charming smile, ofcourse."

[Chuckling, they came to a halt.]

[It was somewhere in the outskirts of town, street thin and deserted of mostly all people.]

"Here we are!"

[The building she motioned to looked normal, barely smaller than the ones around it. The windows were those colored mosaics you couldnt peer into, and the door had a warranty letter taped to it.]

[The only indicator that this was even a shop came from a foldable sign that read:]

["Closed thursdays"]

[How vague.]

[She nudged him to get off before she herself stepped onto the pavement.]

"Its my favorite Cafe!"

[Mika explained, with a type of fond tone you'd associate with childhood memories.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shifted off the motorcycle, stumbling for a moment before looking up at the cafe, lips tightening into a thin line.]

"It's certainly quaint."

[Would she have to use her sick days after eating anything from here?]

"How many health inspectors visit a day?"

[She followed in after Mikaela, hands now in her pockets, her head spinning in almost every direction. Should she report this ...? My goodness.]

"...I'm kidding, it's cute!"

[Ripley fidgets with her phone.]

"I usually make my coffee at home, do you have any suggestions for what I should order?"

[Why did she say that, she's gonna order the fucking— rat shit sprinkle-whip wrap.]

[mikaela-b]

[It was quite cozy actually. It looked pretty clean even.]

[From the entrance she could see almost all the tables, which were completely empty.]

[A younger girl with ginger hair swept the floor at the other end of the room, who promptly froze seeing Mikaela, before leaving as soundlessly as possible.]

[Not her problem, nope, nope.]

[Mika leaned forward against the counter, ringing the bell a few times.]

"Depends."

[She glanced at the menu that was pinned to thr wall.]

"I usually get the daily drink."

[Something rustles in the room behind the counter, before an elder woman steps out on cue.]

[Her face seems to go through all 5 stages of grief before settling on tired acceptance.]

"Mikaela."

...

"..You're back. ....Again."

"...Aaaaand ...i'd like my usual! ...Wwwith one of those chocolate croissants?"

[Mikas smirk is wide, taunting and clearly having the upper hand in whatever situation is unfolding infront of Ripley.]

"And you?"

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley blinked, watching the girl leave the room in quite a rush once Mikaela entered. Alright, that adds to her deck of topics. With deep breath, she smiled and fixed her posture, hands folded in front of her as she peered at the menu. It's a cafe, for Christ's sake—]

"May I just have a coffee, please?"

[He glances over at Mikaela. Play it up.]

"Oh, uh, Just black, with.. maybe a... a couple of cookies? I.. I can pay for my own, Mikaela..."

[Grin and bear it. You've lived through the worst things imaginable, a damn cookie from a sketchy joint won't hurt you.]

"...You know each other?"

[Getting a bit of information wouldn't hurt either. Curiosity killed the cat, but so did health code violations.]

[mikaela-b]

[The woman looked at him like he just asked the stupidest but also most offending question.]

[There were a few moments of silence before the ladies face softened and she sighed.]

[Mikaela took that as a sign to nudge Ripley, guiding the pair to sit at a table in the back, next to one of thr mosaic windows.]

"That lady really knows how to hold a grudge i'll tell you that much."

[She chuckled.]

[The woman had dissapeared back into the room she came out of. The place was entirely quiet, except for a light tune coming from somewhere, and the distant noise of a coffee machine.]

"Didnt kniw you're a black coffee type of person, i would've dubbed you for a sweeter kind."

[ripley-guthound]

"I'm unpredictable."

[Ripley lets out a soft laugh, hands folded in front of him. For a moment, she just stares. Her eyes were hollow, deep, much like an empty well. Her plain, mild-bloodied lips were curved in a smile that even an experienced mortician couldn't bring life into. The deep bags under her eyes and the minor scarring around her face... The silence was so uncomfortable.]

[Then, the smile grew bigger. She flicked a small, rolled up ball of paper at Mika, the light in her eyes returning.]

"How's your life going, Mikaela? I feel like I barely know anything about you too, I mean seeing an old face it's..."

[It's horrifying. You're not supposed to be here.]

"... It's just great."

[mikaela-b]

[She tapped the table, a steady rhythm. A habit?]

"Theres not much to me."

[For someone like Mikaela you would assume that she'd love to boast about her achievements- or just talk about herself in general.]

[If anything the returned question seems to throw her off.]

[The silence stretched akwardly until she decided that she probably cant leave it at that.]

"..."

[She sighed.]

"...I've had a rough couple of weeks, ..but everythings turning out fine."

[Next time she'll pick someone thats.. actually it really hadnt even been her fault. It was wrong time and wrong place, if anything.]

"This guy i knew? Found half dead slumped over in a backstreet by some- nobody whore- but he died in his coma a few days ago now."

[In no way or situation can her tone be interpretated as sorrow or grief. She's not even trying to hide it. Why bother?]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hummed, nodding along with a faint smile. She was holding herself together pretty well, letting out an almost amused huff at the mention of the crime.]

"How unfortunate, losing that friend of yours. Loss is such an awful thing..."

[Desensitization, chapter... 14?]

"And the... Whore? Poor thing."

[He noted the tapping, counting in 4/4. Where was that coffee? He skipped breakfast... If he had slept properly for once, maybe he wouldn't have the heaviest eyelids. Or maybe he was just bored.]

"Moving to the city has its pros and cons— but I only have to worry about the wildlife getting curious, living in the woods and all. I'm honestly just glad things are getting better for both of us... Back then, everything was so awful. But..."

[Manipulation, chapter 2.]

"At least we have each other again, hm? It's hard being so alone... I was worried I'd go crazy or somethin'! I'm... I'm glad it's you and not anyone else..."

[mikaela-b]

"You-"

[Her face lights up with actual emotion.]

"Really?.."

[Honestly, she was sure Ripley wasnt that fond of her, afterall she hadnt been the kindest to the ravenette in their childhoof.]

[She clasps her hands infront of her, thinking for a moment.]

[Ofcourse. Anyone would be glad that you out of all people lived. Afterall, none of them wouldve had the dedication she has.]

[And anyone else would've atleast beat the man infront of her bloody for the betrayal. But not her! Isnt she gracious? Kind? Ofcourse anyone would be glad!]

"I think it was for the better that we met, and that we did so now."

[The older woman brings out their coffees, only Ripleys still steaming. Mikaela didnt seem to pick up on the passive aggressive nature of it as she took a sip.]

[A small plate with a few cookies was placed infront of him, they looked homemade.]

"I mean, you're gonna help keep the legacy alive right?"

[It sounded less like a question and more like her back checking.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hums, silent for a moment. He's practiced this before. It's basically a daily routine when it comes to talking to anyone, like washing your hands before a meal.]

"Well, I've been doing fine. Just fine, really,"

[A pause, a sigh.]

"I'm not that interesting. The days are structured and pretty simple, I just follow orders or clean up the outside. Rather monotonous."

[There's a small shift in her posture, voice light and almost sweet, the visor making it rather difficult to look into her dull eyes and understand how she's feeling. He's trying to be more excited about things, really, but he feels so stale.]

"I don't go out with many people, so this is nice! Being cooped up all day, only going to the store every now and then, making any sort of friend is..." difficult."

[Please be enough.]

[mikaela-b]

"Not many people?"

[Never enough.]

"I would assume you'd get along with atleast some of your coworkers."

[Mika hadnt actually seen a lot of people ever leave the estate. But something rubbed her wrong about the place.]

[She hadnt gotten her usual satusfaction watching the Mannor. It had felt more like, she was at the front of a room, being dissected by sheer eye alone.]

[Lets say, Mikaela hurried off rather quickly.]

[And she'll trust her gut on things, afterall its never done her wrong. Even if she begged to differ on some days.]

"I mean! Livia always found you sooo cute, Enano! I'd assume you'd have that effect on atleast someone else."

[Her voice strains audibly at the mention.]

[Well. Atleast everythings a lot easier if the- Ripley doesnt have any closer friends.]

[ripley-guthound]

"Um, thanks?"

[Ripley tilted his head, feeling a faint warm rise in his face. Cute? He didn't even feel nice or decent. Anyone he talked to would call him mean, hollow, rarely ever anything kind.]

"Cute.........."

[One time they compared her to a mouse. Mice are alright, but a mouse? The kind you trap and toss into the garbage? Vermin?]

"But my coworkers prefer to stick to themselves, we only ever talk at maybe lunch... They're all about getting work done quickly so we can move onto our own business."

[They being like, maybe five other people. Excluding the Silvercains, who were some of the few people that actually willingly talked to her.]

"Honestly, they'd like you more than me..."

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela considered it. Except a few detached friendships and- Grimm, she'd never bothered to seem approachable.]

"Because of my charming smile, ofcourse."

[Chuckling, they came to a halt.]

[It was somewhere in the outskirts of town, street thin and deserted of mostly all people.]

"Here we are!"

[The building she motioned to looked normal, barely smaller than the ones around it. The windows were those colored mosaics you couldnt peer into, and the door had a warranty letter taped to it.]

[The only indicator that this was even a shop came from a foldable sign that read:]

["Closed thursdays"]

[How vague.]

[She nudged him to get off before she herself stepped onto the pavement.]

"Its my favorite Cafe!"

[Mika explained, with a type of fond tone you'd associate with childhood memories.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shifted off the motorcycle, stumbling for a moment before looking up at the cafe, lips tightening into a thin line.]

"It's certainly quaint."

[Would she have to use her sick days after eating anything from here?]

"How many health inspectors visit a day?"

[She followed in after Mikaela, hands now in her pockets, her head spinning in almost every direction. Should she report this ...? My goodness.]

"...I'm kidding, it's cute!"

[Ripley fidgets with her phone.]

"I usually make my coffee at home, do you have any suggestions for what I should order?"

[Why did she say that, she's gonna order the fucking— rat shit sprinkle-whip wrap.]

[mikaela-b]

[It was quite cozy actually. It looked pretty clean even.]

[From the entrance she could see almost all the tables, which were completely empty.]

[A younger girl with ginger hair swept the floor at the other end of the room, who promptly froze seeing Mikaela, before leaving as soundlessly as possible.]

[Not her problem, nope, nope.]

[Mika leaned forward against the counter, ringing the bell a few times.]

"Depends."

[She glanced at the menu that was pinned to thr wall.]

"I usually get the daily drink."

[Something rustles in the room behind the counter, before an elder woman steps out on cue.]

[Her face seems to go through all 5 stages of grief before settling on tired acceptance.]

"Mikaela."

...

"..You're back. ....Again."

"...Aaaaand ...i'd like my usual! ...Wwwith one of those chocolate croissants?"

[Mikas smirk is wide, taunting and clearly having the upper hand in whatever situation is unfolding infront of Ripley.]

"And you?"

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley blinked, watching the girl leave the room in quite a rush once Mikaela entered. Alright, that adds to her deck of topics. With deep breath, she smiled and fixed her posture, hands folded in front of her as she peered at the menu. It's a cafe, for Christ's sake—]

"May I just have a coffee, please?"

[He glances over at Mikaela. Play it up.]

"Oh, uh, Just black, with.. maybe a... a couple of cookies? I.. I can pay for my own, Mikaela..."

[Grin and bear it. You've lived through the worst things imaginable, a damn cookie from a sketchy joint won't hurt you.]

"...You know each other?"

[Getting a bit of information wouldn't hurt either. Curiosity killed the cat, but so did health code violations.]

[mikaela-b]

[The woman looked at him like he just asked the stupidest but also most offending question.]

[There were a few moments of silence before the ladies face softened and she sighed.]

[Mikaela took that as a sign to nudge Ripley, guiding the pair to sit at a table in the back, next to one of thr mosaic windows.]

"That lady really knows how to hold a grudge i'll tell you that much."

[She chuckled.]

[The woman had dissapeared back into the room she came out of. The place was entirely quiet, except for a light tune coming from somewhere, and the distant noise of a coffee machine.]

"Didnt kniw you're a black coffee type of person, i would've dubbed you for a sweeter kind."

[ripley-guthound]

"I'm unpredictable."

[Ripley lets out a soft laugh, hands folded in front of him. For a moment, she just stares. Her eyes were hollow, deep, much like an empty well. Her plain, mild-bloodied lips were curved in a smile that even an experienced mortician couldn't bring life into. The deep bags under her eyes and the minor scarring around her face... The silence was so uncomfortable.]

[Then, the smile grew bigger. She flicked a small, rolled up ball of paper at Mika, the light in her eyes returning.]

"How's your life going, Mikaela? I feel like I barely know anything about you too, I mean seeing an old face it's..."

[It's horrifying. You're not supposed to be here.]

"... It's just great."

[mikaela-b]

[She tapped the table, a steady rhythm. A habit?]

"Theres not much to me."

[For someone like Mikaela you would assume that she'd love to boast about her achievements- or just talk about herself in general.]

[If anything the returned question seems to throw her off.]

[The silence stretched akwardly until she decided that she probably cant leave it at that.]

"..."

[She sighed.]

"...I've had a rough couple of weeks, ..but everythings turning out fine."

[Next time she'll pick someone thats.. actually it really hadnt even been her fault. It was wrong time and wrong place, if anything.]

"This guy i knew? Found half dead slumped over in a backstreet by some- nobody whore- but he died in his coma a few days ago now."

[In no way or situation can her tone be interpretated as sorrow or grief. She's not even trying to hide it. Why bother?]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hums, silent for a moment. He's practiced this before. It's basically a daily routine when it comes to talking to anyone, like washing your hands before a meal.]

"Well, I've been doing fine. Just fine, really,"

[A pause, a sigh.]

"I'm not that interesting. The days are structured and pretty simple, I just follow orders or clean up the outside. Rather monotonous."

[There's a small shift in her posture, voice light and almost sweet, the visor making it rather difficult to look into her dull eyes and understand how she's feeling. He's trying to be more excited about things, really, but he feels so stale.]

"I don't go out with many people, so this is nice! Being cooped up all day, only going to the store every now and then, making any sort of friend is..." difficult."

[Please be enough.]

[mikaela-b]

"Not many people?"

[Never enough.]

"I would assume you'd get along with atleast some of your coworkers."

[Mika hadnt actually seen a lot of people ever leave the estate. But something rubbed her wrong about the place.]

[She hadnt gotten her usual satusfaction watching the Mannor. It had felt more like, she was at the front of a room, being dissected by sheer eye alone.]

[Lets say, Mikaela hurried off rather quickly.]

[And she'll trust her gut on things, afterall its never done her wrong. Even if she begged to differ on some days.]

"I mean! Livia always found you sooo cute, Enano! I'd assume you'd have that effect on atleast someone else."

[Her voice strains audibly at the mention.]

[Well. Atleast everythings a lot easier if the- Ripley doesnt have any closer friends.]

[ripley-guthound]

"Um, thanks?"

[Ripley tilted his head, feeling a faint warm rise in his face. Cute? He didn't even feel nice or decent. Anyone he talked to would call him mean, hollow, rarely ever anything kind.]

"Cute.........."

[One time they compared her to a mouse. Mice are alright, but a mouse? The kind you trap and toss into the garbage? Vermin?]

"But my coworkers prefer to stick to themselves, we only ever talk at maybe lunch... They're all about getting work done quickly so we can move onto our own business."

[They being like, maybe five other people. Excluding the Silvercains, who were some of the few people that actually willingly talked to her.]

"Honestly, they'd like you more than me..."

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela considered it. Except a few detached friendships and- Grimm, she'd never bothered to seem approachable.]

"Because of my charming smile, ofcourse."

[Chuckling, they came to a halt.]

[It was somewhere in the outskirts of town, street thin and deserted of mostly all people.]

"Here we are!"

[The building she motioned to looked normal, barely smaller than the ones around it. The windows were those colored mosaics you couldnt peer into, and the door had a warranty letter taped to it.]

[The only indicator that this was even a shop came from a foldable sign that read:]

["Closed thursdays"]

[How vague.]

[She nudged him to get off before she herself stepped onto the pavement.]

"Its my favorite Cafe!"

[Mika explained, with a type of fond tone you'd associate with childhood memories.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shifted off the motorcycle, stumbling for a moment before looking up at the cafe, lips tightening into a thin line.]

"It's certainly quaint."

[Would she have to use her sick days after eating anything from here?]

"How many health inspectors visit a day?"

[She followed in after Mikaela, hands now in her pockets, her head spinning in almost every direction. Should she report this ...? My goodness.]

"...I'm kidding, it's cute!"

[Ripley fidgets with her phone.]

"I usually make my coffee at home, do you have any suggestions for what I should order?"

[Why did she say that, she's gonna order the fucking— rat shit sprinkle-whip wrap.]

[mikaela-b]

[It was quite cozy actually. It looked pretty clean even.]

[From the entrance she could see almost all the tables, which were completely empty.]

[A younger girl with ginger hair swept the floor at the other end of the room, who promptly froze seeing Mikaela, before leaving as soundlessly as possible.]

[Not her problem, nope, nope.]

[Mika leaned forward against the counter, ringing the bell a few times.]

"Depends."

[She glanced at the menu that was pinned to thr wall.]

"I usually get the daily drink."

[Something rustles in the room behind the counter, before an elder woman steps out on cue.]

[Her face seems to go through all 5 stages of grief before settling on tired acceptance.]

"Mikaela."

...

"..You're back. ....Again."

"...Aaaaand ...i'd like my usual! ...Wwwith one of those chocolate croissants?"

[Mikas smirk is wide, taunting and clearly having the upper hand in whatever situation is unfolding infront of Ripley.]

"And you?"

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley blinked, watching the girl leave the room in quite a rush once Mikaela entered. Alright, that adds to her deck of topics. With deep breath, she smiled and fixed her posture, hands folded in front of her as she peered at the menu. It's a cafe, for Christ's sake—]

"May I just have a coffee, please?"

[He glances over at Mikaela. Play it up.]

"Oh, uh, Just black, with.. maybe a... a couple of cookies? I.. I can pay for my own, Mikaela..."

[Grin and bear it. You've lived through the worst things imaginable, a damn cookie from a sketchy joint won't hurt you.]

"...You know each other?"

[Getting a bit of information wouldn't hurt either. Curiosity killed the cat, but so did health code violations.]

[mikaela-b]

[The woman looked at him like he just asked the stupidest but also most offending question.]

[There were a few moments of silence before the ladies face softened and she sighed.]

[Mikaela took that as a sign to nudge Ripley, guiding the pair to sit at a table in the back, next to one of thr mosaic windows.]

"That lady really knows how to hold a grudge i'll tell you that much."

[She chuckled.]

[The woman had dissapeared back into the room she came out of. The place was entirely quiet, except for a light tune coming from somewhere, and the distant noise of a coffee machine.]

"Didnt kniw you're a black coffee type of person, i would've dubbed you for a sweeter kind."

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hums, silent for a moment. He's practiced this before. It's basically a daily routine when it comes to talking to anyone, like washing your hands before a meal.]

"Well, I've been doing fine. Just fine, really,"

[A pause, a sigh.]

"I'm not that interesting. The days are structured and pretty simple, I just follow orders or clean up the outside. Rather monotonous."

[There's a small shift in her posture, voice light and almost sweet, the visor making it rather difficult to look into her dull eyes and understand how she's feeling. He's trying to be more excited about things, really, but he feels so stale.]

"I don't go out with many people, so this is nice! Being cooped up all day, only going to the store every now and then, making any sort of friend is..." difficult."

[Please be enough.]

[mikaela-b]

"Not many people?"

[Never enough.]

"I would assume you'd get along with atleast some of your coworkers."

[Mika hadnt actually seen a lot of people ever leave the estate. But something rubbed her wrong about the place.]

[She hadnt gotten her usual satusfaction watching the Mannor. It had felt more like, she was at the front of a room, being dissected by sheer eye alone.]

[Lets say, Mikaela hurried off rather quickly.]

[And she'll trust her gut on things, afterall its never done her wrong. Even if she begged to differ on some days.]

"I mean! Livia always found you sooo cute, Enano! I'd assume you'd have that effect on atleast someone else."

[Her voice strains audibly at the mention.]

[Well. Atleast everythings a lot easier if the- Ripley doesnt have any closer friends.]

[ripley-guthound]

"Um, thanks?"

[Ripley tilted his head, feeling a faint warm rise in his face. Cute? He didn't even feel nice or decent. Anyone he talked to would call him mean, hollow, rarely ever anything kind.]

"Cute.........."

[One time they compared her to a mouse. Mice are alright, but a mouse? The kind you trap and toss into the garbage? Vermin?]

"But my coworkers prefer to stick to themselves, we only ever talk at maybe lunch... They're all about getting work done quickly so we can move onto our own business."

[They being like, maybe five other people. Excluding the Silvercains, who were some of the few people that actually willingly talked to her.]

"Honestly, they'd like you more than me..."

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela considered it. Except a few detached friendships and- Grimm, she'd never bothered to seem approachable.]

"Because of my charming smile, ofcourse."

[Chuckling, they came to a halt.]

[It was somewhere in the outskirts of town, street thin and deserted of mostly all people.]

"Here we are!"

[The building she motioned to looked normal, barely smaller than the ones around it. The windows were those colored mosaics you couldnt peer into, and the door had a warranty letter taped to it.]

[The only indicator that this was even a shop came from a foldable sign that read:]

["Closed thursdays"]

[How vague.]

[She nudged him to get off before she herself stepped onto the pavement.]

"Its my favorite Cafe!"

[Mika explained, with a type of fond tone you'd associate with childhood memories.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shifted off the motorcycle, stumbling for a moment before looking up at the cafe, lips tightening into a thin line.]

"It's certainly quaint."

[Would she have to use her sick days after eating anything from here?]

"How many health inspectors visit a day?"

[She followed in after Mikaela, hands now in her pockets, her head spinning in almost every direction. Should she report this ...? My goodness.]

"...I'm kidding, it's cute!"

[Ripley fidgets with her phone.]

"I usually make my coffee at home, do you have any suggestions for what I should order?"

[Why did she say that, she's gonna order the fucking— rat shit sprinkle-whip wrap.]

[mikaela-b]

[It was quite cozy actually. It looked pretty clean even.]

[From the entrance she could see almost all the tables, which were completely empty.]

[A younger girl with ginger hair swept the floor at the other end of the room, who promptly froze seeing Mikaela, before leaving as soundlessly as possible.]

[Not her problem, nope, nope.]

[Mika leaned forward against the counter, ringing the bell a few times.]

"Depends."

[She glanced at the menu that was pinned to thr wall.]

"I usually get the daily drink."

[Something rustles in the room behind the counter, before an elder woman steps out on cue.]

[Her face seems to go through all 5 stages of grief before settling on tired acceptance.]

"Mikaela."

...

"..You're back. ....Again."

"...Aaaaand ...i'd like my usual! ...Wwwith one of those chocolate croissants?"

[Mikas smirk is wide, taunting and clearly having the upper hand in whatever situation is unfolding infront of Ripley.]

"And you?"

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hums, silent for a moment. He's practiced this before. It's basically a daily routine when it comes to talking to anyone, like washing your hands before a meal.]

"Well, I've been doing fine. Just fine, really,"

[A pause, a sigh.]

"I'm not that interesting. The days are structured and pretty simple, I just follow orders or clean up the outside. Rather monotonous."

[There's a small shift in her posture, voice light and almost sweet, the visor making it rather difficult to look into her dull eyes and understand how she's feeling. He's trying to be more excited about things, really, but he feels so stale.]

"I don't go out with many people, so this is nice! Being cooped up all day, only going to the store every now and then, making any sort of friend is..." difficult."

[Please be enough.]

[mikaela-b]

"Not many people?"

[Never enough.]

"I would assume you'd get along with atleast some of your coworkers."

[Mika hadnt actually seen a lot of people ever leave the estate. But something rubbed her wrong about the place.]

[She hadnt gotten her usual satusfaction watching the Mannor. It had felt more like, she was at the front of a room, being dissected by sheer eye alone.]

[Lets say, Mikaela hurried off rather quickly.]

[And she'll trust her gut on things, afterall its never done her wrong. Even if she begged to differ on some days.]

"I mean! Livia always found you sooo cute, Enano! I'd assume you'd have that effect on atleast someone else."

[Her voice strains audibly at the mention.]

[Well. Atleast everythings a lot easier if the- Ripley doesnt have any closer friends.]

[ripley-guthound]

"Um, thanks?"

[Ripley tilted his head, feeling a faint warm rise in his face. Cute? He didn't even feel nice or decent. Anyone he talked to would call him mean, hollow, rarely ever anything kind.]

"Cute.........."

[One time they compared her to a mouse. Mice are alright, but a mouse? The kind you trap and toss into the garbage? Vermin?]

"But my coworkers prefer to stick to themselves, we only ever talk at maybe lunch... They're all about getting work done quickly so we can move onto our own business."

[They being like, maybe five other people. Excluding the Silvercains, who were some of the few people that actually willingly talked to her.]

"Honestly, they'd like you more than me..."

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela considered it. Except a few detached friendships and- Grimm, she'd never bothered to seem approachable.]

"Because of my charming smile, ofcourse."

[Chuckling, they came to a halt.]

[It was somewhere in the outskirts of town, street thin and deserted of mostly all people.]

"Here we are!"

[The building she motioned to looked normal, barely smaller than the ones around it. The windows were those colored mosaics you couldnt peer into, and the door had a warranty letter taped to it.]

[The only indicator that this was even a shop came from a foldable sign that read:]

["Closed thursdays"]

[How vague.]

[She nudged him to get off before she herself stepped onto the pavement.]

"Its my favorite Cafe!"

[Mika explained, with a type of fond tone you'd associate with childhood memories.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley hums, silent for a moment. He's practiced this before. It's basically a daily routine when it comes to talking to anyone, like washing your hands before a meal.]

"Well, I've been doing fine. Just fine, really,"

[A pause, a sigh.]

"I'm not that interesting. The days are structured and pretty simple, I just follow orders or clean up the outside. Rather monotonous."

[There's a small shift in her posture, voice light and almost sweet, the visor making it rather difficult to look into her dull eyes and understand how she's feeling. He's trying to be more excited about things, really, but he feels so stale.]

"I don't go out with many people, so this is nice! Being cooped up all day, only going to the store every now and then, making any sort of friend is..." difficult."

[Please be enough.]

[mikaela-b]

"Not many people?"

[Never enough.]

"I would assume you'd get along with atleast some of your coworkers."

[Mika hadnt actually seen a lot of people ever leave the estate. But something rubbed her wrong about the place.]

[She hadnt gotten her usual satusfaction watching the Mannor. It had felt more like, she was at the front of a room, being dissected by sheer eye alone.]

[Lets say, Mikaela hurried off rather quickly.]

[And she'll trust her gut on things, afterall its never done her wrong. Even if she begged to differ on some days.]

"I mean! Livia always found you sooo cute, Enano! I'd assume you'd have that effect on atleast someone else."

[Her voice strains audibly at the mention.]

[Well. Atleast everythings a lot easier if the- Ripley doesnt have any closer friends.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley gripped tighter, eyes squeezed shut as she felt the wind blow right through her layers. She swallowed, taking a moment to recollect herself.]

"No, I've never been... I've seen how the accidents end."

[He probably looked pathetic right now. Honestly, he can be a real wuss sometimes over the stupidest things... Eventually, he opened his eyes and looked around. She still had a snake-like grip on Mika. Despite her frail appearance (and even frailer mental state at times) was surprisingly strong, but then again she is one of the few employees.]

"And, licenses a way to avoid COPS!"

[Ripley was shouting again, but there was almost humor in her words. Maybe if her wasn't wearing the helmet, Mikaela would catch the smile that was slowly growing on him.]

"You were always the rebellious type, Mikaela, and now you're on the road— I pray for whoever catches you on a bad day! hehe!"

[mikaela-b]

"Well- It's because we've always known where we belong!"

['We']

[It rolled off her tongue way too easily; and way too quickly. Ripley knows what it reminds them off.]

[She bites back a smile, probably a grin.]

"But tell me more-, not just about about the silvercains, you!"

[All about you, everything. Anything.]

[Tell me Ripley, are you salvagable?]

[Can you still understand?]

[Speeding past the residential area, smaller skyscrapers rake in the distance.]

[Traffic is still quiet on this particular road, yet somehow, thats not comforting when Mika overtakes a car without any care or caution.]

"Please, I'd love to hear."

[Her tone stays soft, somewhat. Even through the yelling.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley shrunk under Mikaela's hand as she patted the helmet, wincing slightly as the sound hurt his ears.]

"That's a safety hazard, Mika. It's a miracle you haven't gotten hurt too badly."

[She huffed in annoyance, arms stiffly wrapping around Mikaela's waist. He hesitated for a moment before resting his head against her back.]

"You drive me crazy sometimes..."

[She grumbled, tensing as the engine grew louder and holding on even tighter. His heart was already thrumming in his chest, fear sinking heavy.]

"You at least have a license, right?! Oh my god, oh my god—"

[This is how he dies (again), a motorcycle crash. Great.]

[mikaela-b]

"Honestly.. Those are just for bragging rights."

[Chuckling, she sounded overconfident as she spoke.]

"The best people I knew didnt have licenses! Thats not telling of anything."

[She huffed, but before Ripley could protest further, they accelerated.]

[Mika made sure not to pick up speed too fast, settling in, what she hoped to be, a comfortable tempo for the other.]

[As much as she wouldve enjoyed her screaming and panic, she'd already considered it earlier, and the rarional part of her brain decided that it wouldn't benefit her in the long run.]

"Have you never been on a bike before?"

[She asked with a tone of curiosity.]

[Its not even all that surprising that this was Mikaelas vehicle of choice. It fit her character.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley stared at the helmet, hesitating for a moment before pulling it over her head. It was rather heavy—]

"I can't hear anything."

[She walked over, awkwardly settling down on the small seat. She looked at Mikaela, concern hidden by the helmets visor.]

"Are you sure you don't need the helmet?"

[He tried to ignore the tremble of his legs as he hopped on. He had never been on a motorcycle before— the fastest vehicle he'd ever been on was his own truck.]

[mikaela-b]

"No worries!"

[Mikaela patted the top of the helmet.]

"I dont even use it, i brought it specifically for you."

[She stayed turned to the ravenette for a moment longer, simply watching her.]

"And, I'll go slow.."

[Her tone was reassuring, maybe she'd smelled the nervosity on him.]

[Turning back around, she kicked on the engine, the motor springing to life with a, kind of concerning, rumble.]

"Hold on tight, or i might loose you somewhere along the way, Enano."

[Mika teased, not being able to hold back a little snicker that followed.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Ripley's eyes narrowed, lip twitching at Mikaela's words. Stupid.]

"You and I both know that more than anyone."

[He squeezed her hand, looking into her eyes as she picked the leaf out of her curls.]

"I guess we won't have to worry about loneliness anymore, hm? Though, I probably would've preferred someone a little nicer..."

[She grinned, clearly teasing.]

[The child had been digging in the dirt the entirety of his stay, fingernails filthy and sleeves stained. "What are you looking for?" He didn't respond. "Hey stupid, I'm talking to you." Without looking up, he was met with a face full of dirt. The child began wailing loudly, being scooped away.]

[Ripley shook his head, dirt flying out. He stared at Mikaela's hand, considering for a moment before continuing to walk.]

"Where are we headed exactly?"

[Looking up ahead, she could spot the clearing.]

[mikaela-b]

"Riiiiight... over there i think."

[Stepping onto the street, Mikaela glanced around, before scurrying back.]

[She picked up the bike from where she'd leaned it against the shadow side of a tree. Pulling it with her onto the road.]

"..There we go."

[Swinging her leg over the motorcycle, she kept it balanced quite easily while fishing in her pockets for the keys.]

"Although, I hope you're not claustrophic, because you're getting the helmet."

[See! Totally nice!]

[.. Mika went over this in her head a few times now.]

[Grabbing the helmet and dislodging it from where it was hung, she threw it towards Ripley.]

[There was a tiny star sticker in the corner of the visor.]

"C'mon."

[She patted the space behind her, where a smaller seat sat, giving him a small but genuine smile.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[ripley-guthound]

"Hm, I'd settle for safer."

[Ripley shrugged, thinking for a moment. She looked at Mikaela, her voice soft and distant as she folded her arms.]

"When I left, I had no place to stay. I was freezing outside, no one would hire me and..."

[He huffs, her voice filling with what almost seemed to be fondness, but her gaze remained distant.]

"They provided a safe place to stay for the night, then in return I did them some favors. I suppose that's when they decided to hire me."

[He stepped onto a log in the path, standing up tall with her heels rocking.]

"Free housing and a decent paycheck? I think I've won, Mika."

[She chuckled, only to fall backwards onto the ground. There was silence, then a sigh.]

[How long are you going to keep this up?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela stood over Ripley, her shadow casting over her as she smiled at the clumsy man with something akin to amusement.]

"But you're alone."

[As if she wasn't.]

[But that wasnt a choice. Thats what she tells herself atleast.]

[Mika held out her left hand, which made the getting up a bit harder, but she pulled her up nonetheless.]

"You're stupid."

[She chuckled softly, picking a brown leaf out from Ripleys hair.]

"Well.. I guess they seem like good people. Although, remember. People with power will always sought to abuse it."

[That sounded wrong coming from her, considering everything she believed in.]

[She hopped over the log, holding out her own hand to 'help' Ripley over, but it was more meant ironically.]

[ripley-guthound]

[Mikaela texted a while ago that 'she'll be there in a few minutes'.]

[2 quick knocks.]

[She's actually dressed for the weather this time, instead of looking like a poor orphan boy... Or someone thats about to rob you.]

[Mika went out of her way to dress nice. This was her favorite sweater. The jacket was relatively new too. Its even vegan! Not that she cares, but you should! It was cheaper.]

"Well!"

"I hope I'm on time, I know you're a busy person, afterall."

[Her hair was bundled together by a Hair claw, her bangs left untouched. She's retouched her roots, what a weird observation.]

[A loud crash could be heard from the inside, followed by a yelp and grumbled curses. For a moment, there was silence, then a shout.]

"Yeah, hold on!"

[Truth be told, Ripley had stayed up late the night before, hunting. It was part of the job.]

"I'm almost ready, just wait outside!"

[She had found herself stumbling in her untied boots, before sighing and kneeling down to tie them properly. Her hair was still a little wet, and under her sweater— spots of her skin went red from the harsh scrubbing.]

[He then opened the door ever so slightly, an awkward smile on his face, curls framing around her lightly scarred cheeks.]

"I'm sorry, I would've invited you in but...

[Another crash. Ripley did not waver.]

"My roof fell in."

[He forced a soft laugh, then grabbed her hat and yellow scarf. She stepped out of her house and shut the door firmly behind him, wearing a pair of patched up overalls with a jacket over, before wrapping the scarf around her neck and giving a curt nod.]

"You look—"

[He paused, trying to find the right word.]

"Nice."

[mikaela-b]

"Sure. But you dont look all that bad yourself."

[She forced a smile, trailing her eyes down, before coming back up to meet Ripleys.]

"I parked outside, 'didnt want to drive through the forest."

[She hummed]

[Mikaela couldnt help but glance back towards the house.]

[Curious, curious.]

[One of these days it'll kill the cat.]

[The forest was quiet as they walked along the path. It felt almost peaceful, in a way.]

[But the silence served only to echo her own thoughts.]

"So how long have you been working for the Silvercains? Never imagined you becoming an errand boy."

[She chuckled towards the end, trying to keep the mood light, while already prying.]

[ripley-guthound]

"A few years now."

[Ripley doesn't specify. He keeps walking, listening to the trees rustle against each other and the birds that flew overhead. She quickly zipped up her coat, not wanting to catch a cold or anything.]

"They're surprisingly nice compared to all the reports about them. Everyone's so intimidated, but they're just..."

["They're just really intimidating" he tries to refrain from saying. He doesn't really know how to describe them.]

"What kind of work do you do?"

[She wasn't one for small talk, but surprisingly there's a lot of articles on conversation starters. However, how do you continue conversations after starting them?]

[mikaela-b]

[Mikaela thought. She did a few things]

"Oh, i just do a few odd jobs here and there. I mostly help out in this one music shop though."

[Store owner's some.. anti capitalism enthusiast.]

[She chuckles, glancing over at the ravenette, a smirk tugging at her lips.]

"- just anything really that'll pay me cash. All of that.. legal stuff is no use to me."

[She couldnt care less if she was on a document somewhere. It's a blessing and a curse, really. Its much harder to track a person down if they- ]

[Mika spun the topic back to him, both curious, but also not enjoying being the focus. She has so much to say! And still so little she can say! Its awful.]

"But do say, how'd you end up there?"

[So close to the question she wants to ask, yet so far. She can't just derail a conversation at will.]

"I can't imagine this is the life you left us for.. I would've imagined something... greater!"

[wimdywhimper]

[malevolentram]

@paradoxicalloopy this is what I refer to s lot btw

[mikaela-b]

That guy looks like mumbo jumbo