who gave the clown a job @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian - Tumblr Blog

This mcdonalds is doomed.

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*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*Hero rushes over to them, yet stops about a foot away.*

Hero: What- you- are you ok??-

Cheated: Yeah, seriously, what hap-

*Suddenly, Smitten scoops Connie up, doing a little spin with them in his arms.*

Smitten: What does the past matter when you've finally returned to us!

Hero: I think the past matters quite a bit, actually-

*They squeak in surprise as they're scooped, and yet almost immediately they melt into Smitten's feathers, the tears pooling in their eyes dampening them.*

I missed you guys-

Hero: We missed you too.

Cheated: I didn't-

*Smitten swiftly sets Connie down and turns to face Cheated.*

Smitten: How dare you say such a thing!

*Hunted pads over, moving on all fours.*

Hunted: Ignore him. We missed you.

*They try to wipe the tears from their eyes only for them to immediately be replaced.*

I..

*But what is there to say? What words could possibly communicate the aching hole in their chest, or the countless nights they spent alone, dreaming of being found?*

*So why rely on words at all? Instead, they throw themself at Hero, clinging to him like he might disappear all over again.*

Hero: Oh-

*His arms wrap around them in turn, holding them close.*

*What happened to them..?*

*But that thought is interrupted as Smitten's arms wrap around them both. And while Hunted doesn't join the hug, it stays close to it, a fond look in their eyes.*

*cold listens from where he stands out in the hall. he's not fond of waiting, but connie should get some time to meet their flock before adding him to the equation. actually...*

...

*he turns to look at poppy, still out here with him.*

...

*yeah okay he's not that patient. he picks up poppy and pretty much just shoves her through the apartment door.*

*She's stood there, just staring at the scene inside the apartment. Her knuckles are starting to go white from how hard she's gripping her cane.*

*She-*

AH-

*She stumbles as she's thrown into the apartment, only barely managing to catch herself and maintain balance.*

*Also the cat ears are gone now bc yeah.*

*And suddenly, all eyes in the room are on her.*

Hero: Oh- you're here too.

Smitten: Do you realize what this means? At long last, our flock is whole once more!

*He squeezes Hero and Connie tighter.*

Hero: Ack- Smitten, I can't breath-

Smitten: Oh, my deepest apologies!

*He lets go of the two of them..*

Yes- sorry for not showing myself sooner, I just thought I'd give Connie a moment with you all first, that's all-

Cheated: Of course the first thing out of your mouth is an excuse..

*Smitten lightly bonks him.*

Cheated: Hey, what the hell was that for?!-

Smitten: I won't stand for you continuing to be rude to our recently returned flockmates!

Cheated: Well I'm sorry I'm not too excited to see the guy who lies a lot and then one who threw our only method of defending ourself out the window when facing a princess literally made of knives!!

*Connie shrinks back slightly.*

Ok, in my defense, the timeline where we did have the knife didn't exactly go any better for us-

Cheated: It's about the principle of it.

*thump. thump. thump.*

*someone — or something — stands in the doorway, only visible from the chest down.*

*it has to stoop down low to get under the doorframe, and even once it's in the apartment proper, it has to keep its neck partly scrunched to fit in the room, its plumicorns grazing the ceiling.*

*bright white eyes lock onto cheated, but the something — or someone — makes no move to attack. yet.*

Cheated: Wait, but- oh fuck-

*He, and pretty much everyone else in this room, stares at the frankly oversized bird now in the apartment.*

Hero: Um.. hello..?

Oh, yeah, that's Cold- a different Cold, obviously- there are kind of multiple versions of all of us?

...

*a sharp-clawed hand emerges from beneath his wings and waves at hero. still, his eyes remain fixed on cheated.*

Cheated: Ok, first of all, what, second of all, why won't he stop staring at me-

I don't think he's very happy about you being mean to me-

Cheated: What-

*But before Cheated can finish that thought, Smitten steps out in front of the group, wings spread wide to block them from view. He glares daggers at Cold.*

Smitten: I don't know what could've possibly possessed you to think you could show your face here after all that you've done, but I'll have you know that I will not tolerate the likes of you in our midst.

*Cold chuckles softly in the background.*

*"You make me sick."*

...

*he shoves the memory smitten aside to stand closer to his connie.*

*But Smitten doesn't budge.*

What, do you have nothing to say for yourself?

Hey, uh, can we all maybe stop fighting?- Please?-

...perhaps. But I doubt you'd listen.

*he glances over at connie, a twinge of guilt running through his heart at the tone of their voice. his gaze lands sharply back on smitten.*

You heard them. No fighting.

Smitten: But-

*Hunted baps him with their paw.*

Hunted: Opportunist is missing.

Hero: What?-

*And it's true. It seems like at some point during that argument, Poppy just.. left.*

*he takes advantage of the distraction to go to connie, draping one of his lower wings over their shoulder. in a soft whisper, one meant only for their ears, he says:*

...sorry...

*They lean into his feathers and look up at him, a smile on their face.*

It's ok.

*Hunted's ear twitches.*

I'll find him.

*And without waiting for an answer, he takes off.*

*There's a pause.*

Cheated: Ok, so can I ask why he's here now?

*He gestures at Cold.*

And why are you two cuddling now???

So- we're actually dating-

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*Hero rushes over to them, yet stops about a foot away.*

Hero: What- you- are you ok??-

Cheated: Yeah, seriously, what hap-

*Suddenly, Smitten scoops Connie up, doing a little spin with them in his arms.*

Smitten: What does the past matter when you've finally returned to us!

Hero: I think the past matters quite a bit, actually-

*They squeak in surprise as they're scooped, and yet almost immediately they melt into Smitten's feathers, the tears pooling in their eyes dampening them.*

I missed you guys-

Hero: We missed you too.

Cheated: I didn't-

*Smitten swiftly sets Connie down and turns to face Cheated.*

Smitten: How dare you say such a thing!

*Hunted pads over, moving on all fours.*

Hunted: Ignore him. We missed you.

*They try to wipe the tears from their eyes only for them to immediately be replaced.*

I..

*But what is there to say? What words could possibly communicate the aching hole in their chest, or the countless nights they spent alone, dreaming of being found?*

*So why rely on words at all? Instead, they throw themself at Hero, clinging to him like he might disappear all over again.*

Hero: Oh-

*His arms wrap around them in turn, holding them close.*

*What happened to them..?*

*But that thought is interrupted as Smitten's arms wrap around them both. And while Hunted doesn't join the hug, it stays close to it, a fond look in their eyes.*

*cold listens from where he stands out in the hall. he's not fond of waiting, but connie should get some time to meet their flock before adding him to the equation. actually...*

...

*he turns to look at poppy, still out here with him.*

...

*yeah okay he's not that patient. he picks up poppy and pretty much just shoves her through the apartment door.*

*She's stood there, just staring at the scene inside the apartment. Her knuckles are starting to go white from how hard she's gripping her cane.*

*She-*

AH-

*She stumbles as she's thrown into the apartment, only barely managing to catch herself and maintain balance.*

*Also the cat ears are gone now bc yeah.*

*And suddenly, all eyes in the room are on her.*

Hero: Oh- you're here too.

Smitten: Do you realize what this means? At long last, our flock is whole once more!

*He squeezes Hero and Connie tighter.*

Hero: Ack- Smitten, I can't breath-

Smitten: Oh, my deepest apologies!

*He lets go of the two of them..*

Yes- sorry for not showing myself sooner, I just thought I'd give Connie a moment with you all first, that's all-

Cheated: Of course the first thing out of your mouth is an excuse..

*Smitten lightly bonks him.*

Cheated: Hey, what the hell was that for?!-

Smitten: I won't stand for you continuing to be rude to our recently returned flockmates!

Cheated: Well I'm sorry I'm not too excited to see the guy who lies a lot and then one who threw our only method of defending ourself out the window when facing a princess literally made of knives!!

*Connie shrinks back slightly.*

Ok, in my defense, the timeline where we did have the knife didn't exactly go any better for us-

Cheated: It's about the principle of it.

*thump. thump. thump.*

*someone — or something — stands in the doorway, only visible from the chest down.*

*it has to stoop down low to get under the doorframe, and even once it's in the apartment proper, it has to keep its neck partly scrunched to fit in the room, its plumicorns grazing the ceiling.*

*bright white eyes lock onto cheated, but the something — or someone — makes no move to attack. yet.*

Cheated: Wait, but- oh fuck-

*He, and pretty much everyone else in this room, stares at the frankly oversized bird now in the apartment.*

Hero: Um.. hello..?

Oh, yeah, that's Cold- a different Cold, obviously- there are kind of multiple versions of all of us?

...

*a sharp-clawed hand emerges from beneath his wings and waves at hero. still, his eyes remain fixed on cheated.*

Cheated: Ok, first of all, what, second of all, why won't he stop staring at me-

I don't think he's very happy about you being mean to me-

Cheated: What-

*But before Cheated can finish that thought, Smitten steps out in front of the group, wings spread wide to block them from view. He glares daggers at Cold.*

*Cold chuckles softly in the background.*

*"You make me sick."*

...

*he shoves the memory smitten aside to stand closer to his connie.*

*But Smitten doesn't budge.*

What, do you have nothing to say for yourself?

Hey, uh, can we all maybe stop fighting?- Please?-

...perhaps. But I doubt you'd listen.

*he glances over at connie, a twinge of guilt running through his heart at the tone of their voice. his gaze lands sharply back on smitten.*

You heard them. No fighting.

Smitten: But-

*Hunted baps him with their paw.*

Hunted: Opportunist is missing.

Hero: What?-

*And it's true. It seems like at some point during that argument, Poppy just.. left.*

*he takes advantage of the distraction to go to connie, draping one of his lower wings over their shoulder. in a soft whisper, one meant only for their ears, he says:*

...sorry...

*They lean into his feathers and look up at him, a smile on their face.*

It's ok.

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*Hero rushes over to them, yet stops about a foot away.*

Hero: What- you- are you ok??-

Cheated: Yeah, seriously, what hap-

*Suddenly, Smitten scoops Connie up, doing a little spin with them in his arms.*

Smitten: What does the past matter when you've finally returned to us!

Hero: I think the past matters quite a bit, actually-

*They squeak in surprise as they're scooped, and yet almost immediately they melt into Smitten's feathers, the tears pooling in their eyes dampening them.*

I missed you guys-

Hero: We missed you too.

Cheated: I didn't-

*Smitten swiftly sets Connie down and turns to face Cheated.*

Smitten: How dare you say such a thing!

*Hunted pads over, moving on all fours.*

Hunted: Ignore him. We missed you.

*They try to wipe the tears from their eyes only for them to immediately be replaced.*

I..

*But what is there to say? What words could possibly communicate the aching hole in their chest, or the countless nights they spent alone, dreaming of being found?*

*So why rely on words at all? Instead, they throw themself at Hero, clinging to him like he might disappear all over again.*

Hero: Oh-

*His arms wrap around them in turn, holding them close.*

*What happened to them..?*

*But that thought is interrupted as Smitten's arms wrap around them both. And while Hunted doesn't join the hug, it stays close to it, a fond look in their eyes.*

*cold listens from where he stands out in the hall. he's not fond of waiting, but connie should get some time to meet their flock before adding him to the equation. actually...*

...

*he turns to look at poppy, still out here with him.*

...

*yeah okay he's not that patient. he picks up poppy and pretty much just shoves her through the apartment door.*

*She's stood there, just staring at the scene inside the apartment. Her knuckles are starting to go white from how hard she's gripping her cane.*

*She-*

AH-

*She stumbles as she's thrown into the apartment, only barely managing to catch herself and maintain balance.*

*Also the cat ears are gone now bc yeah.*

*And suddenly, all eyes in the room are on her.*

Hero: Oh- you're here too.

Smitten: Do you realize what this means? At long last, our flock is whole once more!

*He squeezes Hero and Connie tighter.*

Hero: Ack- Smitten, I can't breath-

Smitten: Oh, my deepest apologies!

*He lets go of the two of them..*

Yes- sorry for not showing myself sooner, I just thought I'd give Connie a moment with you all first, that's all-

Cheated: Of course the first thing out of your mouth is an excuse..

*Smitten lightly bonks him.*

Cheated: Hey, what the hell was that for?!-

Smitten: I won't stand for you continuing to be rude to our recently returned flockmates!

Cheated: Well I'm sorry I'm not too excited to see the guy who lies a lot and then one who threw our only method of defending ourself out the window when facing a princess literally made of knives!!

*Connie shrinks back slightly.*

Ok, in my defense, the timeline where we did have the knife didn't exactly go any better for us-

Cheated: It's about the principle of it.

*thump. thump. thump.*

*someone — or something — stands in the doorway, only visible from the chest down.*

*it has to stoop down low to get under the doorframe, and even once it's in the apartment proper, it has to keep its neck partly scrunched to fit in the room, its plumicorns grazing the ceiling.*

*bright white eyes lock onto cheated, but the something — or someone — makes no move to attack. yet.*

Cheated: Wait, but- oh fuck-

*He, and pretty much everyone else in this room, stares at the frankly oversized bird now in the apartment.*

Hero: Um.. hello..?

Oh, yeah, that's Cold- a different Cold, obviously- there are kind of multiple versions of all of us?

...

*a sharp-clawed hand emerges from beneath his wings and waves at hero. still, his eyes remain fixed on cheated.*

Cheated: Ok, first of all, what, second of all, why won't he stop staring at me-

I don't think he's very happy about you being mean to me-

Cheated: What-

*But before Cheated can finish that thought, Smitten steps out in front of the group, wings spread wide to block them from view. He glares daggers at Cold.*

*Cold chuckles softly in the background.*

*"You make me sick."*

...

*he shoves the memory smitten aside to stand closer to his connie.*

*But Smitten doesn't budge.*

What, do you have nothing to say for yourself?

Hey, uh, can we all maybe stop fighting?- Please?-

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*Hero rushes over to them, yet stops about a foot away.*

Hero: What- you- are you ok??-

Cheated: Yeah, seriously, what hap-

*Suddenly, Smitten scoops Connie up, doing a little spin with them in his arms.*

Smitten: What does the past matter when you've finally returned to us!

Hero: I think the past matters quite a bit, actually-

*They squeak in surprise as they're scooped, and yet almost immediately they melt into Smitten's feathers, the tears pooling in their eyes dampening them.*

I missed you guys-

Hero: We missed you too.

Cheated: I didn't-

*Smitten swiftly sets Connie down and turns to face Cheated.*

Smitten: How dare you say such a thing!

*Hunted pads over, moving on all fours.*

Hunted: Ignore him. We missed you.

*They try to wipe the tears from their eyes only for them to immediately be replaced.*

I..

*But what is there to say? What words could possibly communicate the aching hole in their chest, or the countless nights they spent alone, dreaming of being found?*

*So why rely on words at all? Instead, they throw themself at Hero, clinging to him like he might disappear all over again.*

Hero: Oh-

*His arms wrap around them in turn, holding them close.*

*What happened to them..?*

*But that thought is interrupted as Smitten's arms wrap around them both. And while Hunted doesn't join the hug, it stays close to it, a fond look in their eyes.*

*cold listens from where he stands out in the hall. he's not fond of waiting, but connie should get some time to meet their flock before adding him to the equation. actually...*

...

*he turns to look at poppy, still out here with him.*

...

*yeah okay he's not that patient. he picks up poppy and pretty much just shoves her through the apartment door.*

*She's stood there, just staring at the scene inside the apartment. Her knuckles are starting to go white from how hard she's gripping her cane.*

*She-*

AH-

*She stumbles as she's thrown into the apartment, only barely managing to catch herself and maintain balance.*

*Also the cat ears are gone now bc yeah.*

*And suddenly, all eyes in the room are on her.*

Hero: Oh- you're here too.

Smitten: Do you realize what this means? At long last, our flock is whole once more!

*He squeezes Hero and Connie tighter.*

Hero: Ack- Smitten, I can't breath-

Smitten: Oh, my deepest apologies!

*He lets go of the two of them..*

Yes- sorry for not showing myself sooner, I just thought I'd give Connie a moment with you all first, that's all-

Cheated: Of course the first thing out of your mouth is an excuse..

*Smitten lightly bonks him.*

Cheated: Hey, what the hell was that for?!-

Smitten: I won't stand for you continuing to be rude to our recently returned flockmates!

Cheated: Well I'm sorry I'm not too excited to see the guy who lies a lot and then one who threw our only method of defending ourself out the window when facing a princess literally made of knives!!

*Connie shrinks back slightly.*

Ok, in my defense, the timeline where we did have the knife didn't exactly go any better for us-

Cheated: It's about the principle of it.

*thump. thump. thump.*

*someone — or something — stands in the doorway, only visible from the chest down.*

*it has to stoop down low to get under the doorframe, and even once it's in the apartment proper, it has to keep its neck partly scrunched to fit in the room, its plumicorns grazing the ceiling.*

*bright white eyes lock onto cheated, but the something — or someone — makes no move to attack. yet.*

Cheated: Wait, but- oh fuck-

*He, and pretty much everyone else in this room, stares at the frankly oversized bird now in the apartment.*

Hero: Um.. hello..?

Oh, yeah, that's Cold- a different Cold, obviously- there are kind of multiple versions of all of us?

...

*a sharp-clawed hand emerges from beneath his wings and waves at hero. still, his eyes remain fixed on cheated.*

Cheated: Ok, first of all, what, second of all, why won't he stop staring at me-

I don't think he's very happy about you being mean to me-

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*Hero rushes over to them, yet stops about a foot away.*

Hero: What- you- are you ok??-

Cheated: Yeah, seriously, what hap-

*Suddenly, Smitten scoops Connie up, doing a little spin with them in his arms.*

Smitten: What does the past matter when you've finally returned to us!

Hero: I think the past matters quite a bit, actually-

*They squeak in surprise as they're scooped, and yet almost immediately they melt into Smitten's feathers, the tears pooling in their eyes dampening them.*

I missed you guys-

Hero: We missed you too.

Cheated: I didn't-

*Smitten swiftly sets Connie down and turns to face Cheated.*

Smitten: How dare you say such a thing!

*Hunted pads over, moving on all fours.*

Hunted: Ignore him. We missed you.

*They try to wipe the tears from their eyes only for them to immediately be replaced.*

I..

*But what is there to say? What words could possibly communicate the aching hole in their chest, or the countless nights they spent alone, dreaming of being found?*

*So why rely on words at all? Instead, they throw themself at Hero, clinging to him like he might disappear all over again.*

Hero: Oh-

*His arms wrap around them in turn, holding them close.*

*What happened to them..?*

*But that thought is interrupted as Smitten's arms wrap around them both. And while Hunted doesn't join the hug, it stays close to it, a fond look in their eyes.*

*cold listens from where he stands out in the hall. he's not fond of waiting, but connie should get some time to meet their flock before adding him to the equation. actually...*

...

*he turns to look at poppy, still out here with him.*

...

*yeah okay he's not that patient. he picks up poppy and pretty much just shoves her through the apartment door.*

*She's stood there, just staring at the scene inside the apartment. Her knuckles are starting to go white from how hard she's gripping her cane.*

*She-*

AH-

*She stumbles as she's thrown into the apartment, only barely managing to catch herself and maintain balance.*

*Also the cat ears are gone now bc yeah.*

*And suddenly, all eyes in the room are on her.*

Hero: Oh- you're here too.

Smitten: Do you realize what this means? At long last, our flock is whole once more!

*He squeezes Hero and Connie tighter.*

Hero: Ack- Smitten, I can't breath-

Smitten: Oh, my deepest apologies!

*He lets go of the two of them..*

Yes- sorry for not showing myself sooner, I just thought I'd give Connie a moment with you all first, that's all-

Cheated: Of course the first thing out of your mouth is an excuse..

*Smitten lightly bonks him.*

Cheated: Hey, what the hell was that for?!-

Smitten: I won't stand for you continuing to be rude to our recently returned flockmates!

Cheated: Well I'm sorry I'm not too excited to see the guy who lies a lot and then one who threw our only method of defending ourself out the window when facing a princess literally made of knives!!

*Connie shrinks back slightly.*

Ok, in my defense, the timeline where we did have the knife didn't exactly go any better for us-

Cheated: It's about the principle of it.

*thump. thump. thump.*

*someone — or something — stands in the doorway, only visible from the chest down.*

*it has to stoop down low to get under the doorframe, and even once it's in the apartment proper, it has to keep its neck partly scrunched to fit in the room, its plumicorns grazing the ceiling.*

*bright white eyes lock onto cheated, but the something — or someone — makes no move to attack. yet.*

Cheated: Wait, but- oh fuck-

*He, and pretty much everyone else in this room, stares at the frankly oversized bird now in the apartment.*

Hero: Um.. hello..?

Oh, yeah, that's Cold- a different Cold, obviously- there are kind of multiple versions of all of us?

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*Hero rushes over to them, yet stops about a foot away.*

Hero: What- you- are you ok??-

Cheated: Yeah, seriously, what hap-

*Suddenly, Smitten scoops Connie up, doing a little spin with them in his arms.*

Smitten: What does the past matter when you've finally returned to us!

Hero: I think the past matters quite a bit, actually-

*They squeak in surprise as they're scooped, and yet almost immediately they melt into Smitten's feathers, the tears pooling in their eyes dampening them.*

I missed you guys-

Hero: We missed you too.

Cheated: I didn't-

*Smitten swiftly sets Connie down and turns to face Cheated.*

Smitten: How dare you say such a thing!

*Hunted pads over, moving on all fours.*

Hunted: Ignore him. We missed you.

*They try to wipe the tears from their eyes only for them to immediately be replaced.*

I..

*But what is there to say? What words could possibly communicate the aching hole in their chest, or the countless nights they spent alone, dreaming of being found?*

*So why rely on words at all? Instead, they throw themself at Hero, clinging to him like he might disappear all over again.*

Hero: Oh-

*His arms wrap around them in turn, holding them close.*

*What happened to them..?*

*But that thought is interrupted as Smitten's arms wrap around them both. And while Hunted doesn't join the hug, it stays close to it, a fond look in their eyes.*

*cold listens from where he stands out in the hall. he's not fond of waiting, but connie should get some time to meet their flock before adding him to the equation. actually...*

...

*he turns to look at poppy, still out here with him.*

...

*yeah okay he's not that patient. he picks up poppy and pretty much just shoves her through the apartment door.*

*She's stood there, just staring at the scene inside the apartment. Her knuckles are starting to go white from how hard she's gripping her cane.*

*She-*

AH-

*She stumbles as she's thrown into the apartment, only barely managing to catch herself and maintain balance.*

*Also the cat ears are gone now bc yeah.*

*And suddenly, all eyes in the room are on her.*

Hero: Oh- you're here too.

Smitten: Do you realize what this means? At long last, our flock is whole once more!

*He squeezes Hero and Connie tighter.*

Hero: Ack- Smitten, I can't breath-

Smitten: Oh, my deepest apologies!

*He lets go of the two of them..*

Yes- sorry for not showing myself sooner, I just thought I'd give Connie a moment with you all first, that's all-

Cheated: Of course the first thing out of your mouth is an excuse..

*Smitten lightly bonks him.*

Cheated: Hey, what the hell was that for?!-

Smitten: I won't stand for you continuing to be rude to our recently returned flockmates!

Cheated: Well I'm sorry I'm not too excited to see the guy who lies a lot and then one who threw our only method of defending ourself out the window when facing a princess literally made of knives!!

*Connie shrinks back slightly.*

Ok, in my defense, the timeline where we did have the knife didn't exactly go any better for us-

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*Hero rushes over to them, yet stops about a foot away.*

Hero: What- you- are you ok??-

Cheated: Yeah, seriously, what hap-

*Suddenly, Smitten scoops Connie up, doing a little spin with them in his arms.*

Smitten: What does the past matter when you've finally returned to us!

Hero: I think the past matters quite a bit, actually-

*They squeak in surprise as they're scooped, and yet almost immediately they melt into Smitten's feathers, the tears pooling in their eyes dampening them.*

I missed you guys-

Hero: We missed you too.

Cheated: I didn't-

*Smitten swiftly sets Connie down and turns to face Cheated.*

Smitten: How dare you say such a thing!

*Hunted pads over, moving on all fours.*

Hunted: Ignore him. We missed you.

*They try to wipe the tears from their eyes only for them to immediately be replaced.*

I..

*But what is there to say? What words could possibly communicate the aching hole in their chest, or the countless nights they spent alone, dreaming of being found?*

*So why rely on words at all? Instead, they throw themself at Hero, clinging to him like he might disappear all over again.*

Hero: Oh-

*His arms wrap around them in turn, holding them close.*

*What happened to them..?*

*But that thought is interrupted as Smitten's arms wrap around them both. And while Hunted doesn't join the hug, it stays close to it, a fond look in their eyes.*

#wholesome birdsssssss

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*Hero rushes over to them, yet stops about a foot away.*

Hero: What- you- are you ok??-

Cheated: Yeah, seriously, what hap-

*Suddenly, Smitten scoops Connie up, doing a little spin with them in his arms.*

Smitten: What does the past matter when you've finally returned to us!

Hero: I think the past matters quite a bit, actually-

*They squeak in surprise as they're scooped, and yet almost immediately they melt into Smitten's feathers, the tears pooling in their eyes dampening them.*

I missed you guys-

Hero: We missed you too.

Cheated: I didn't-

*Smitten swiftly sets Connie down and turns to face Cheated.*

Smitten: How dare you say such a thing!

*Hunted pads over, moving on all fours.*

Hunted: Ignore him. We missed you.

*They try to wipe the tears from their eyes only for them to immediately be replaced.*

I..

*But what is there to say? What words could possibly communicate the aching hole in their chest, or the countless nights they spent alone, dreaming of being found?*

*So why rely on words at all? Instead, they throw themself at Hero, clinging to him like he might disappear all over again.*

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*Hero rushes over to them, yet stops about a foot away.*

Hero: What- you- are you ok??-

Cheated: Yeah, seriously, what hap-

*Suddenly, Smitten scoops Connie up, doing a little spin with them in his arms.*

Smitten: What does the past matter when you've finally returned to us!

Hero: I think the past matters quite a bit, actually-

*They squeak in surprise as they're scooped, and yet almost immediately they melt into Smitten's feathers, the tears pooling in their eyes dampening them.*

I missed you guys-

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

Cheated: Ok, is no one going to question what that- oh shit-

*All eyes (except Cold's, of course) turn to see what exactly caught Cheated's attention- a bird, standing in the doorway. Unfamiliar, and yet not a stranger.*

Hero: Contrarian?-

Hey, uh- long time no see..?

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

Of course they'll like you.

*another nibble.*

You're you.

#time to play dolls with myself✨

*They giggle softly.*

Ok, fine-

*They breath in.*

I can do this.

*And finally, they step into the apartment.*

*The apartment door swings open, and Cold unceremoniously walks in. Smitten shoots him a glare.*

Hero: Oh- you're back earlier than usual.

Cold: I know.

[@stp-frycook-mrthecold @stp-minimum-wage-contrarian @stp-minimum-wage-opportunist]

[yes I did just mention myself twice]

[and yes Cold did just leave the others at the door without explaining that they're there.]

*heavy, thudding footsteps. something — or someone — is approaching.*

*he stops just outside the door, setting connie down gently next to him. he gives them a gentle nibble for encouragement, then gestures at the door.*

You first.

#lil bit of Connie burger before the fluff

*They hesitate.*

What if they don't like me..?

*There is someone awfully familiar in the fry kitchen. Someone who is sitting on the floor and eating raw fries right out of their packaging.*

@stp-minwage-the-other-voices

...

*if this were not mctabby's, and mr the cold was not mr the cold, he might demand to know what this person is doing here, or perhaps forcibly remove them from the premises.*

*but this is mctabby's, and he is mr the cold, and so instead he simply takes a ladle of hot oil from the fryer and holds it over their head.*

*a single drop of hot oil falls from it.*

*The drop lands on him, and he looks up. For a moment, he doesn't speak, idly taking in the others appearance. The only hint at what might be going on in its mind is a slight head tilt.*

*Finally, he speaks.*

Cold: You're me.

Hm. Thought so.

*behind his wings, his head tilts to the same side as the other cold's.*

...

Why are you here?

*the ladle remains still, for now.*

I was bored. This place looked interesting.

*He eats another uncooked fry.*

Not particularly. But perhaps I'm simply used to it.

...

*the ladle shifts to the side slightly, but no more oil falls. not yet.*

Well? Do you find it interesting?

Hm. Somewhat. Meeting you is interesting. It's not everyday you meet another of yourself after all.

Hm. Perhaps not from your perspective.

*the ladle moves a little further away, a bit of oil splashing onto the floor.*

Do you meet other versions of yourself often?

I don't. But some of the others...

*the corner of his smile peeks out over his wings.*

...my Connie has nearly half a dozen counterparts, if I recall correctly.

Really?

*There's the smallest hint of a glimmer of interest in his eyes. Or maybe its just a trick of the light.*

My flock is still missing its Contrarian.

Oh?

...

*"When I first appeared out of the construct.. no one was there. I thought.. I thought they'd eventually find me, but they- they just never showed up-"*

...

Have you been searching very long?

Hero's been searching for everyone since the beginning. A few others help.

*"Chances are they're still looking for you."*

...

*he unceremoniously grabs cold, throwing him over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. a pause to stick the ladle back in the fryer, and then he's off to go find connie.*

*It's not hard to pick him up. He's surprisingly light despite his height.*

Oh. Ok.

*without a word, he leaves the fry kitchen and heads up front to the registers.*

Connie?

@stp-minimum-wage-contrarian

*Their face lights up the second they hear his voice, and they look over and see-*

Uh- what do you have there?

*he does not answer, plopping cold down on the ground in front of them.*

Tell them what you just told me.

*But instead it turns to look back at the other Cold.*

And why should I?

...

I just think you'll find their reaction interesting.

Hm..

*It turns back to look at Connie, eyes slowly trailing across their form.*

*They shrink under his gaze.*

Ok, seriously, what's going on-

I think you're our Contrarian.

What-

*Their brain stumbles over the information.*

You- wait, "our-" does that mean- do you know where the rest of the flock is?-

Of course I do.

*cold is just watching connie, grinning as wide as he can.*

*Their flock.*

*They're going home.*

*They're actually going home.*

*Their composure snaps in two, and they cling onto Cold- their flocks' Cold- and sob.*

Oh.

*He just stands awkwardly in the hug.*

*Their sobbing soon slows to a few hiccupped tears, and they reluctantly pull away.*

Sorry about that, I just- I can't believe- you actually found me-

Hm. I suppose I did.

*For a moment, he's silent. Then he turns and walks away as if he didn't just give Connie world shaking news.*

Wait where are you going-

Somewhere else.

*oh no you don't!*

*cold flaps his wings, kicking up gusts of air that send napkins and sandwich wrappers flying. and himself, of course, though he doesn't go very far. just enough to tackle the other cold and stop him from leaving.*

*He doesn't bother to resist getting tackled, simply letting himself crash into the floor.*

And what was that for?

Where is the rest of your flock?

Another town. It isn't far.

Take us there.

Do I have to? I just got here. Besides, I flew here, and that one-

*One of his headwings gestures at Connie while the other continues to keep the lower half of his face mostly hidden.*

Clearly can't fly.

Oh-

*They visibly wilt. Their wings- the ones remaining, that is- pull in closer to their body.*

*he hoists himself to his feet, keeping a firm grip on the other cold's arm.*

I'll carry them. We're going. Now.

*It looks at him, head tilting slightly once more.*

Why do you care so much?

...

*his silence speaks for itself.*

*Two can play at that game- he silently stares right back at him.*

Um- ok, so I should probably mention that I kinda figured out that the Opportunist who works here is also part of my flock- I should probablyyy go get him for this-

*a nod.*

Go ahead. We'll be here.

Thank you-

*They run off.*

Hopefully that one can actually fly.

...

*he says nothing, but his grip on his other self tightens.*

Come on come on come on!

*Connie's voice echoes down the hall. A second later, they appear, dragging Poppy behind them. The point at their own flock's Cold, their grin back in full force.*

Look, I told you, it's him! And he can take us to the rest of the flock!

*Her eyes fall on Cold.*

Oh- wow, you were actually telling the truth-

*Despite that, her smile still looks like cardboard, and her ears (which are still, unfortunately, cat ears) are pressed back against her head.*

*he gives opportunist a curt nod, then looks back down at the other cold.*

Let's go, then.

*he hefts cold over his shoulder once more and makes his way for the exit.*

Yeah, let's go!

*They follow him, continuing to pull her along.*

*once outside, he finally lets go of cold, immediately scooping connie up bridal-style.*

Lead the way.

*It lands on its feet and briefly shakes out its feathers.*

If you insist.

*With a woosh of his wings, he takes flight.*

*Connie immediately relaxes in Cold's arms, snuggling into his feathers. Where they are right now is more than they ever could've dreamed of- they're finally reuniting with their flock, and they have a wonderful partner to do it with-*

*A partner that never once seemed to question if they'd leave him as soon as they were reunited.*

. . .

*oh.*

*he gives connie a quick nuzzle as he spreads his wings. a glance over his shoulder at opportunist —*

Come on.

*— and he takes off, following close behind his counterpart.*

#can i throw you out the window?

*For a second, she hesitates.*

Yes, of course- I'm right behind you!

*And then she's off, trailing slightly behind the others.*

so is this a bad time to mention you've actually met two of cold's flockmates

Wait what do you mean two-

#weird customers

*There is someone awfully familiar in the fry kitchen. Someone who is sitting on the floor and eating raw fries right out of their packaging.*

@stp-minwage-the-other-voices

...

*if this were not mctabby's, and mr the cold was not mr the cold, he might demand to know what this person is doing here, or perhaps forcibly remove them from the premises.*

*but this is mctabby's, and he is mr the cold, and so instead he simply takes a ladle of hot oil from the fryer and holds it over their head.*

*a single drop of hot oil falls from it.*

*The drop lands on him, and he looks up. For a moment, he doesn't speak, idly taking in the others appearance. The only hint at what might be going on in its mind is a slight head tilt.*

*Finally, he speaks.*

Cold: You're me.

Hm. Thought so.

*behind his wings, his head tilts to the same side as the other cold's.*

...

Why are you here?

*the ladle remains still, for now.*

I was bored. This place looked interesting.

*He eats another uncooked fry.*

Not particularly. But perhaps I'm simply used to it.

...

*the ladle shifts to the side slightly, but no more oil falls. not yet.*

Well? Do you find it interesting?

Hm. Somewhat. Meeting you is interesting. It's not everyday you meet another of yourself after all.

Hm. Perhaps not from your perspective.

*the ladle moves a little further away, a bit of oil splashing onto the floor.*

Do you meet other versions of yourself often?

I don't. But some of the others...

*the corner of his smile peeks out over his wings.*

...my Connie has nearly half a dozen counterparts, if I recall correctly.

Really?

*There's the smallest hint of a glimmer of interest in his eyes. Or maybe its just a trick of the light.*

My flock is still missing its Contrarian.

Oh?

...

*"When I first appeared out of the construct.. no one was there. I thought.. I thought they'd eventually find me, but they- they just never showed up-"*

...

Have you been searching very long?

Hero's been searching for everyone since the beginning. A few others help.

*"Chances are they're still looking for you."*

...

*he unceremoniously grabs cold, throwing him over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. a pause to stick the ladle back in the fryer, and then he's off to go find connie.*

*It's not hard to pick him up. He's surprisingly light despite his height.*

Oh. Ok.

*without a word, he leaves the fry kitchen and heads up front to the registers.*

Connie?

@stp-minimum-wage-contrarian

*Their face lights up the second they hear his voice, and they look over and see-*

Uh- what do you have there?

*he does not answer, plopping cold down on the ground in front of them.*

Tell them what you just told me.

*But instead it turns to look back at the other Cold.*

And why should I?

...

I just think you'll find their reaction interesting.

Hm..

*It turns back to look at Connie, eyes slowly trailing across their form.*

*They shrink under his gaze.*

Ok, seriously, what's going on-

I think you're our Contrarian.

What-

*Their brain stumbles over the information.*

You- wait, "our-" does that mean- do you know where the rest of the flock is?-

Of course I do.

*cold is just watching connie, grinning as wide as he can.*

*Their flock.*

*They're going home.*

*They're actually going home.*

*Their composure snaps in two, and they cling onto Cold- their flocks' Cold- and sob.*

Oh.

*He just stands awkwardly in the hug.*

*Their sobbing soon slows to a few hiccupped tears, and they reluctantly pull away.*

Sorry about that, I just- I can't believe- you actually found me-

Hm. I suppose I did.

*For a moment, he's silent. Then he turns and walks away as if he didn't just give Connie world shaking news.*

Wait where are you going-

Somewhere else.

*oh no you don't!*

*He doesn't bother to resist getting tackled, simply letting himself crash into the floor.*

And what was that for?

Where is the rest of your flock?

Another town. It isn't far.

Take us there.

Do I have to? I just got here. Besides, I flew here, and that one-

*One of his headwings gestures at Connie while the other continues to keep the lower half of his face mostly hidden.*

Clearly can't fly.

Oh-

*They visibly wilt. Their wings- the ones remaining, that is- pull in closer to their body.*

*he hoists himself to his feet, keeping a firm grip on the other cold's arm.*

I'll carry them. We're going. Now.

*It looks at him, head tilting slightly once more.*

Why do you care so much?

...

*his silence speaks for itself.*

*Two can play at that game- he silently stares right back at him.*

Um- ok, so I should probably mention that I kinda figured out that the Opportunist who works here is also part of my flock- I should probablyyy go get him for this-

*a nod.*

Go ahead. We'll be here.

Thank you-

*They run off.*

Hopefully that one can actually fly.

...

*he says nothing, but his grip on his other self tightens.*

Come on come on come on!

*Connie's voice echoes down the hall. A second later, they appear, dragging Poppy behind them. The point at their own flock's Cold, their grin back in full force.*

Look, I told you, it's him! And he can take us to the rest of the flock!

*Her eyes fall on Cold.*

Oh- wow, you were actually telling the truth-

*Despite that, her smile still looks like cardboard, and her ears (which are still, unfortunately, cat ears) are pressed back against her head.*

*he gives opportunist a curt nod, then looks back down at the other cold.*

Let's go, then.

*he hefts cold over his shoulder once more and makes his way for the exit.*

Yeah, let's go!

*They follow him, continuing to pull her along.*

*once outside, he finally lets go of cold, immediately scooping connie up bridal-style.*

Lead the way.

*It lands on its feet and briefly shakes out its feathers.*

If you insist.

*With a woosh of his wings, he takes flight.*

#anyways the guilt has hit #yippee!

*A partner that never once seemed to question if they'd leave him as soon as they were reunited.*

. . .

*oh.*

*There is someone awfully familiar in the fry kitchen. Someone who is sitting on the floor and eating raw fries right out of their packaging.*

@stp-minwage-the-other-voices

...

*if this were not mctabby's, and mr the cold was not mr the cold, he might demand to know what this person is doing here, or perhaps forcibly remove them from the premises.*

*but this is mctabby's, and he is mr the cold, and so instead he simply takes a ladle of hot oil from the fryer and holds it over their head.*

*a single drop of hot oil falls from it.*

*The drop lands on him, and he looks up. For a moment, he doesn't speak, idly taking in the others appearance. The only hint at what might be going on in its mind is a slight head tilt.*

*Finally, he speaks.*

Cold: You're me.

Hm. Thought so.

*behind his wings, his head tilts to the same side as the other cold's.*

...

Why are you here?

*the ladle remains still, for now.*

I was bored. This place looked interesting.

*He eats another uncooked fry.*

Not particularly. But perhaps I'm simply used to it.

...

*the ladle shifts to the side slightly, but no more oil falls. not yet.*

Well? Do you find it interesting?

Hm. Somewhat. Meeting you is interesting. It's not everyday you meet another of yourself after all.

Hm. Perhaps not from your perspective.

*the ladle moves a little further away, a bit of oil splashing onto the floor.*

Do you meet other versions of yourself often?

I don't. But some of the others...

*the corner of his smile peeks out over his wings.*

...my Connie has nearly half a dozen counterparts, if I recall correctly.

Really?

*There's the smallest hint of a glimmer of interest in his eyes. Or maybe its just a trick of the light.*

My flock is still missing its Contrarian.

Oh?

...

*"When I first appeared out of the construct.. no one was there. I thought.. I thought they'd eventually find me, but they- they just never showed up-"*

...

Have you been searching very long?

Hero's been searching for everyone since the beginning. A few others help.

*"Chances are they're still looking for you."*

...

*he unceremoniously grabs cold, throwing him over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. a pause to stick the ladle back in the fryer, and then he's off to go find connie.*

*It's not hard to pick him up. He's surprisingly light despite his height.*

Oh. Ok.

*without a word, he leaves the fry kitchen and heads up front to the registers.*

Connie?

@stp-minimum-wage-contrarian

*Their face lights up the second they hear his voice, and they look over and see-*

Uh- what do you have there?

*he does not answer, plopping cold down on the ground in front of them.*

Tell them what you just told me.

*But instead it turns to look back at the other Cold.*

And why should I?

...

I just think you'll find their reaction interesting.

Hm..

*It turns back to look at Connie, eyes slowly trailing across their form.*

*They shrink under his gaze.*

Ok, seriously, what's going on-

I think you're our Contrarian.

What-

*Their brain stumbles over the information.*

You- wait, "our-" does that mean- do you know where the rest of the flock is?-

Of course I do.

*cold is just watching connie, grinning as wide as he can.*

*Their flock.*

*They're going home.*

*They're actually going home.*

*Their composure snaps in two, and they cling onto Cold- their flocks' Cold- and sob.*

Oh.

*He just stands awkwardly in the hug.*

*Their sobbing soon slows to a few hiccupped tears, and they reluctantly pull away.*

Sorry about that, I just- I can't believe- you actually found me-

Hm. I suppose I did.

*For a moment, he's silent. Then he turns and walks away as if he didn't just give Connie world shaking news.*

Wait where are you going-

Somewhere else.

*oh no you don't!*

*He doesn't bother to resist getting tackled, simply letting himself crash into the floor.*

And what was that for?

Where is the rest of your flock?

Another town. It isn't far.

Take us there.

Do I have to? I just got here. Besides, I flew here, and that one-

*One of his headwings gestures at Connie while the other continues to keep the lower half of his face mostly hidden.*

Clearly can't fly.

Oh-

*They visibly wilt. Their wings- the ones remaining, that is- pull in closer to their body.*

*he hoists himself to his feet, keeping a firm grip on the other cold's arm.*

I'll carry them. We're going. Now.

*It looks at him, head tilting slightly once more.*

Why do you care so much?

...

*his silence speaks for itself.*

*Two can play at that game- he silently stares right back at him.*

Um- ok, so I should probably mention that I kinda figured out that the Opportunist who works here is also part of my flock- I should probablyyy go get him for this-

*a nod.*

Go ahead. We'll be here.

Thank you-

*They run off.*

Hopefully that one can actually fly.

...

*he says nothing, but his grip on his other self tightens.*

Come on come on come on!

*Connie's voice echoes down the hall. A second later, they appear, dragging Poppy behind them. The point at their own flock's Cold, their grin back in full force.*

Look, I told you, it's him! And he can take us to the rest of the flock!

*Her eyes fall on Cold.*

Oh- wow, you were actually telling the truth-

*Despite that, her smile still looks like cardboard, and her ears (which are still, unfortunately, cat ears) are pressed back against her head.*

*he gives opportunist a curt nod, then looks back down at the other cold.*

Let's go, then.

*he hefts cold over his shoulder once more and makes his way for the exit.*