#caligulasacquisition

[taskforcetumut]

ATRIUM SECURITY RECORDING 0409

[THE SHIP HAS LEFT LOMAT. GOODBYE BEACH FUN TIMES :( ]

 LIFERA: -It's been days since she boarded, but only now is she stepping out into the open. There's still a clear lack of effort into her appearance that hadn't been present when she was empress, but most notably, it's with her hair. Being that most of it is gone, chopped off into short, messy curls that frame her face. The sign of scarring on her arms is still just slightly there, and she's making no attempt to hide anything. Just walking slowly into the atrium with the kind of stiff resignation one might reserve for a funeral march.-

DIRK: -there had been a great deal of tension for the new captain since lifera's arrival, and it's no secret that he's always been more than a little paranoid... he'd been watching security camera feed closely in his... spare time, so it doesn't take long for him to catch a glimpse of lifera entering the atrium. in the same instance of his heart stopping, he makes his way there as well, though he's lacking the words when he does see her again in the flesh.-

DIRK: Uh-- You...

DIRK: Left your room.

REDGLARE: -IS THERE, SUDDENLY. One finger to an earpiece like the president's secret service. WATCHING.-

LIFERA: -She looks at Dirk, a sort of apologetic expression for just a moment before it returns to resignation.- Yes.

LIFERA: I think it's time I did.

REDGLARE: -eyeing Dirk.- Th3r3 h4sn't b33n 4n off1c14l 4nnounc3m3nt 4s of y3t.

DIRK: -glances back at redglare- I know.

DIRK: -settles on lifera again- Why do you say that? -or rather, why do you put it like that...-

LIFERA: There is no reason you should have to hide me.

LIFERA: Or that I should not face whatever has to come.

LIFERA: My being here is my responsibility, now.

ERIDAN: -WHEELS ON IN, it's been awhile since he's hung out in here- -uh. stares at lifera- -he kinda looks at dirk like UM-

DIRK: -he wishes that hearing that could be a relief to him, but it's not. he glances at eridan too, feeling even more on the spot, before he looks at her once more.-

DIRK: It... isn't actually. As long as you're here, I'm responsible for keeping you safe.

REDGLARE: Du3 r3sp3ct, but 1t w1ll c4us3 gr34t3r d1scord 1f th1s b3g1ns to l34k out through unoff1c14l ch4nn3ls. Th3 4lt3rn4t1v3 1s conf1n3m3nt to qu4rt3rs.

ERIDAN: wwhat do you mean unofficial channels do you mean spies

REDGLARE: Rumors, mor3 l1k3.

RAJANI: -hidden and out of sight. do you mean spies-

REDGLARE: Word g3ts 4round.

DIRK: ... Yeah. If everyone on board heard about this on their own, and not from one of us-- -runs his hand over his forehead nervously-

DIRK: It could get bad.

LIFERA: Then we do not have to let it develop into rumors.

LIFERA: We tell them now.

DIRK: -fidgets. damn his anxiety. but he nods.- If... that's what you want. -he supposes he can't really argue. he doesn't like to keep secrets among the crew, and he trusts everyone enough that the information of her being here wont pass beyond these walls.-

DIRK: -looks at eridan and redglare again. he wants to say something, but he isn't quite sure what. he hates how useless this whole thing has rendered him.- We'll, uh—

DIRK: Have to prepare for any backlash.

DIRK: I don't anticipate anything extreme, but... -trails off-

LIFERA: I am prepared for that, and I can handle it.

LIFERA: I am also prepared to tell everyone why I am here, so that the responsibility does not rest solely on you, Dirk.

LIFERA: You have always been kind to me. I appreseate that more than I can express. I would not ask more of you now.

DIRK: -he isn't sure she understands. that he owes it to his uncle who brought her here, to the rebels who need her safe. to her, by obligation of having people under his care. but then again... maybe she does understand. he somehow doubts she asked to be put in this position as much as he had.-

DIRK: ... -exhales- It's probably best they hear from you, anyway.

REDGLARE: -Nods.-

ERIDAN: wwhat no wwell make a fuckin announcement ovver the speakers

ERIDAN: dirk wwe cant do it like this

ERIDAN: wwell havve a goddamned mutiny

DIRK: We can... make an annoucement. And then she can say her peace over the intercom, as well. -he's very tense, brows knitted at the mention of a mutiny.-

LIFERA: Then let us do so.

DIRK: -expects further objection from eridan, or perhaps some kind of excuse not to go through with it, one that he can rationalize so they can avoid this some more. but he's almost certain this is the only way to handle this with less chance for a mess.- ... Alright.

ERIDAN: -he's still NERVOUS about it but at least this way theres SOME control over the situation- lets go right noww wwe gotta get this done

REDGLARE: 1t w1ll b3 b3tt3r 1n th3 long run. 1 b3l13v3 th4t.

DIRK: -gestures for lifera to follow as he starts leading the troup up to the bridge so that the announcement can be made.-

LIFERA: -she's following closely.-

REDGLARE: -Shes inviting herself to follow. She's pretty sure the order was implied, anyways.-

DIRK: -we need you, redglare, in case someone tries to tackle lifera on the way there-

DIRK: -and within a matter of moments (some of which were spent staring at the button, unsure of what to even say) dirk can be heard over the intercom.-

DIRK: I have an annoucement to make. So please, everyone give me your attention.

DIRK: Days ago, a new addition had been brought to the ship. Her arrival is as monumentally important as it is delicate, and I implore you all to consider what we are about to tell you very carefully, as I expect this news will not easily be received by a good portion of those of you on board.

DIRK: ... It is her Imperial Consolation of Beforus. And she... would like to explain the circumstances of her being here. -nervously passes the attention on to her-

PIP: -HERE COMES THAT BIRB-

PIP: -Lands on a Dirk and caws gently-

DIRK: -WHO LET THIS BIRD ON THE BRIDGE-

DIRK: -CONTAINS HIS SCREAMS-

LIFERA: -She's used to this kind of thing, but it's more bitter than sweet now. In fact, she sort of dreads doing this, but she's resigned to that feeling, too.-

LIFERA: ... I am Lifera Peixes.

LIFERA: And I was, for a time, imprisoned on an Alternian military base. With the situation in which I have escaped from, I would like to offer aid in any and all information I have, and under these circumstances, Dirk has graciously accepted my offer.

LIFERA: I do not, however, expect that kindness from any of you, nor even your respect.

LIFERA: I will be in the atrium, should you wish to speak to me directly.

LIFERA: -With that, she gives up the mic. That's all she can bring herself to say.-

DIRK: -if she's returning to the atrium, then he figures he should probably be with her... and he will take this bird with him.-

CRONUS: -HES WAITING IN THE ATRIUM, slouching at a table, munching donuts-

REDGLARE: -She eyes Eridan and Dirk, and even Pip for a moment there.-

REDGLARE: -Then she sweeps out to follow her, hands folded neatly behind her back to stand guard. It's one thing to face the music, but a whole other one to directly invite an indignant fist to the face.-

LIFERA: -she's heading right back down and... Of course there's Cronus. She's almost a little relieved, but she can't really afford to be.-

DIRK: -HE'S HERE, hanging with lifera, waiting for an inevitable shitstorm. maybe it wont happen now... but it will happen... he can feel it.-

DAELOS: - As soon as he hears her voice on the intercom, he started limping this direction. He arrives with a slightly flushed face since he was in a hurry, but doesn't do anything more than calmly cross the atrium to join her, warily eyeing everyone else. -

CRONUS: -woah, who's this stud?-

CRONUS: -oh wait. it's that guy who hates him-

LIFERA: -she stands there still, hair cropped short, and she sort of freezes again to see him moving toward her. But it's different than last time. Everything is different, everything keeps changing. She wants to reach out to him, but she doesn't let herself. Not here, not now. But him being here, there's a quiet strength in it that she couldn't give to herself.-

DAELOS: - Her hair is a shock, and it actually does give him pause, if only because it makes her look that much more vulnerable and lonely. He just sits at one of the adjacent tables away from the captain and co. by himself, eyeing her... and then focusing on the door. -

RUFIOH: -he's obligated to make an appearance, expecting everything just as it was. A goddamn funeral march and tension thick enough to cut the air with. And this had all started off as such a nice day.- RUFIOH: -flutters into the Atrium, expression steely as he hovers for a second. And then lands.-

PIP: -Flaps over to Lifera's shoulder-

CRONUS: -heeeeeeeeeey look who it is! He hops up excitedly and smarms over to rufioh- hey rufioh, crazy seeing you here. did you knowv her conchiness too?

LIFERA: -That is... An unexpectedly familiar face, but she says nothing. She sort of glances at the bird on her shoulder, resisting touching him even for comfort.-

RUFIOH: -doesn't smile or act any kind of friendly towards Cronus. In fact, he's looking kind of pale. Ill, even.- we met once. maybe more. -openly staring at her. The look of her and how it didn't fit any of the surroundings. It was as surreal as the hallucination he remembered.-

DIRK: -definitely tenses a little worse seeing rufioh here, but he continues to sit with his hands folded on the table. he's cool.-

CRONUS: -UH his reaction didn't make him feel all that great, but he tries to keep up his nos shaking grin- oh yeah? i used to see her all the time. her and my guardian had like, a thing? hey, though, she knowvs about my music. i didnt think she vwould havwe evwen seen it but hey, maybe she sensed it vwas mine.

CRONUS: -he's nervously looking between lifera and rufioh at this point as he keeps babbling-

DIRK: -what a nerd-

RUFIOH: 1 bet she d1d. -mutters and then pushes past Cronus like nothing, heading straight for Dirk.-

CRONUS: -CRUSHED-

DIRK: -notices rufioh is coming at him and isn't sure what to do about it-

LIFERA: -She can't help feeling a strange pang of concern for Dirk, all of a sudden, but she knows she can't interfere now. There's really nothing she can do anymore.-

RUFIOH: -approaches him with intent.- so.

RUFIOH: what the fuck 1s th1s about.

CRONUS: -shuffles up behind him, looking at a LOSS for once-

DIRK: -tries not to look away, straightening up his posture.- ... The resistance extracted her from an Alternian military base, as she said. She's being kept here for now. -he isn't sure what else to say without accusing anybody of anything. he certainly isn't about to mention he had very little say in all this.-

RUFIOH: -giving Dirk such a hard stare.- alr1ght... sorry. lemme ask that quest1on aga1n.

RUFIOH: who the fuck sa1d th1s was okay. that 1t 1s okay.

RUFIOH: you know how fucked up th1s 1s? to see her? stand1ng around l1ke she's got bus1ness be1ng.

RUFIOH: 1 wanna know what ya'll thought was gonna happen.

PIP: -Cocks his birb head. He caw quietly.-

CRONUS: -looks between lifera and rufioh again before quickly muttering- hey nowv, shes not that bad.

DAELOS: - He watches Rufioh closely but doesn't find it appropriate to interfere. Obviously they anticipated this reaction. He just wants to ensure Lifera is safe. -

DIRK: ... I'm not naive, Rufioh. I know full well how everyone would respond to this.

DIRK: This is a complicated situation that I have to deal with as it progresses now that she's here. I knew we had to address this with everyone before word got around on it's own. We couldn't keep it a secret.

DIRK: No one is expecting you or anyone else to be alright with it. Certainly not her. She made that clear.

RUFIOH: well f1ne. -fingers tighten into fists.- then 1'm gonna say whatever the hell 1s on my m1nd cuz... honestly?

RUFIOH: th1s makes me fuck1ng s1ck. -venom drips from his tone now, the kind he's never tasted in his life.-

RUFIOH: th1s parade or whatever the hell th1s 1s. there some k1nda honor 1n th1s? are ya'll stand1ng around here to protect her?

RUFIOH: from what.

RUFIOH: her just dues?

DAVE: -after that announcement it's about time security got here, so here he is, walking on in near Dirk just in case-

CRONUS: -he's at such a loss for what to do. Normally what he does in a situation like this is he throws rocks or trash at it before hiding behind a trash can, but he has no idea if that'd work now. the gears turn in his head as his eyes just keep darting around at everyone, trying so hard to keep his smile up, but it's very noticeably quivering as he looks like he's going to explode-

MITUNA: -This announcement was absolutely WHAT. Mituna is making his way into the atrium, pausing as he catches a glimpse of her, his pusher in his throat. He just quietly shuffles up to this hubbub-

REDGLARE: Y3s. -She says, bluntly, eyeing Rufioh.-

REDGLARE: Th1s h4s noth1ng to do w1th honor of 4ny d3scr1pt1on. 1f th1s sh1p d3sc3nds 1nto mob v1ol3nc3 ov3r h3r pr3s3nc3-- wh1ch r3m41ns t4ct1c4lly 4dv4nt43gous to us-- th3n th3r3 1s l1ttl3 3nough hop3 for us cont1nu1ng to work tog3th3r.

DAVE: -he's going to call a couple of guards in with his communicator to hang back should anyone take it too far-

DAVE: were not exactly made up of upstanding citizens of the universe

DAVE: idk if anyone noticed

ERIDAN: -is DEFINITELY sipping his drank from afar. He'll swoop in if necessary, but for now he's just watching and waiting-

REDGLARE: W3 n33d h3r. Th3r3's no on3 on our s1d3 4nd for 4ll w3 kn3w, 1t could'v3 b33n th3 3mp1r3 th4t k1ll3d h3r. But 1t w4sn't, 4nd sh3 1s now h3r3.

RUFIOH: why doesn't everyone just shut the fuck up and let the beforan talk.

DAVE: cool it

DAVE: chill

DIRK: Dave.

DIRK: It's fine. -looks at mituna tho-

REDGLARE: Th4t 1sn't n3c3ss4ry, D4v3. You 4sk3d 4 qu3st1on. Th4t w4s your 4nsw3r, Ruf1oh.

REDGLARE: You'r3 fr33 to 4sk 4ny oth3rs th4t spr1ng to m1nd.

RUFIOH: y'know. all 1 see 1s.... the system do1ng what 1t does best.

RUFIOH: mostly a fuck1ng h1ghblood talk1ng.

RUFIOH: and more. cuz obv1ously she knows best.

MITUNA: -He's just kind of staring at her, a storm of emotions. She had done so much and yet, she was all of home that was left. The memories of hugs and laughs overriding those of this the ailing psionics. She was more than her sins right? She wasn't a monster, he knew the real lif, right? The lady obsessed with fish puns and telling him to stop giving kankri wedgies. He lets out a soft shudder-

TEREZI: -Around this time, Dirk receives two image files. One is of a much younger-looking Sollux. The other is a semi-accurate MS Paint representation of the aftermath of the night the UU landed on Beforus almost two years ago. HELLO CARNAGE.-

DIRK: -WELP-

DIRK: -he's just gonna pretend he didn't see that-

DIRK: -or that he isn't horribly shaken now. why does he have to have stupid computer shades that make it impossible to ignore messages...-

CRONUS: heeeey, so, vwhy dont vwe just.. -waves his arms at lifera, stepping in front of rufioh slightly- so he just vwants to talk to her right? let him talk to her.

REDGLARE: -She doesn't really say anything, at that, expression stony.-

DIRK: I—

DIRK: She's only reinforcing points I've already made and decided on.

DAVE: -glances at Dirk because something seems off but then keeps his eyes on the rest of them-

RUFIOH: cool for you, d1rk. you're the man w1th a plan.

CRONUS: -oh god, is HE BEING IGNORED?? he doesn't know how to deal with this-

DIRK: I'm-- 

DIRK: Doing what I can. This isn't...

DIRK: I'm sorry, Rufioh.

RUFIOH: -stares Dirk down before sweeping his gaze out to everyone else.- 1 used to be scared sh1tless of people l1ke you. people who had words to say. and wanted the1r way cuz 1t was the r1ght way.

RUFIOH: 1 d1dn't know better. 1 just wanted to l1ve my l1fe.

RUFIOH: now 1 could care two rubb1ng sh1ts what any of ya'll th1nk.

RUFIOH: bet you all want to l1ve your l1ves too.

RUFIOH: well too bad. 1'm gonna be as real as 1 fuck1ng want to be.

RUFIOH: you're not gonna make me stop talk1ng. 1'm probably the only one around LEFT to talk.

RUFIOH: you shut me up and you're no better than her. or them out there.

CRONUS: -winces and steps away-

DIRK: -swallows- I'm not-- Saying that you should... No one is... I... -what does he do he doesn't know-

REDGLARE: Str1d3r.

REDGLARE: -She shakes her head at him.-

REDGLARE: -And with that she looks up again, silent and expression rather blank.-

RUFIOH: -looking directly at Redglare now.- she don't belong to th1s sh1p. she doesn't belong anywhere but beforus.

RUFIOH: we do what we gotta sure but after that.

RUFIOH: they got a word for that.

RUFIOH: 1t's called h1gh treason.

REDGLARE: -She waits a few ticks before responding. It's taking some effort-- she's doing her best to remain as neutral as she can manage in these affairs.- Do you sugg3st w3 4rr4ng3 4 tr14l?

RUFIOH: 1 say we get a fuck1ng f1gure on how she's go1ng to answer to what she d1d to her own emp1re. yeah.

RUFIOH: people who put her 1n power. trust1ng her.

RUFIOH: masses of people who a1n't even around to g1ve the1r thoughts cuz they d1dn't get the chance.

DAELOS: And what of the slavers pirates and murderers we all so easily rub elbows with on this ship?

DAELOS: Would you put them on trial

REDGLARE: -yes-

REDGLARE: - i mean is this an open forum suggestion because yes-

RUFIOH: -shoots a rather hateful glare at Daelos.-

DIRK: -at this point, he's reverting back to another time and a place. highbloods debating around him with lowbloods speak in defiance. and regardless of what he thinks or feels, he's on the outside. he's nothing to any of them. they could do what they would with him in a matter of seconds.-

DIRK: -but he just looks like he's being quiet.-

UNCLE BRO: -Suddenly Davenforth-

DAELOS: - And he's staring back with just as much hostility, however veiled.-

UNCLE BRO: -Puts a hand on Dirks shoulder-

RUFIOH: what part of "she was trusted 1n power" d1d you not get, motherfucker.

CRONUS: -he really sin't sure where this is coming from but something stirs in him and he finds himself speaking up again- isnt this the opposite of anything vwe should be doing right nowv i mean... heh... id ont think fighting betvween ourselvwes is going to help us survwivwe anything, you knowv?

CRONUS: -can i please just play a song and make this tension go away-

UNCLE BRO: Kids got a point but regardless this aint dirks fault

DIRK: -fucking GASPS when he feels a hand on his shoulder and startles so bad he almost falls out of his chair-

UNCLE BRO: I made the decision to bring her here

UNCLE BRO: Solo

REDGLARE: -TENSES-

RUFIOH: -ignoring Cronus blatantly in favor of fixing the hatred on his face at bruncle.-

RUFIOH: why.

UNCLE BRO: -His face is steeled, looking at the young troll. Truly, the decision was selfish wasn't it? But even if it wasn't, where would she go? She'd do nothing but rot in isolation anywhere else. She still didn't deserve that.-

DIRK: -he's having a hard time processing any words right now, but his uncle being here sets off another chain of panicked feelings.- (Don't--)

CRONUS: -arrrg he can TELL rufioh is ignoring him on purpose, so he does the thing HE KNOWS BEST... the keytar is coming out-

UNCLE BRO: She deserves somewhere safe she deserves that much what happened to our your home was the result of multiple people and she cant be held solely to blame she tried her best as ruler and the worst happened and shes owning that

UNCLE BRO: But if anyone deserves this shitstorm its me

REDGLARE: -GOD FRIGGIN DAMN IT-

DAVE: -he's a little worried about his brother, so he steps up- this aint the time for this shit

DAVE: theres gotta be a more organized way to do this

DAVE: a meeting or something right

DAVE: no use gettin all worked up in the atrium when shes clearly not a threat at this point in time to anyone

DAVE: -why does his uncle have to be so strider-

UNCLE BRO: If youre gonna put anyone on trial for their misgivings then well

RUFIOH: and who the fuck are you to dec1de that. -hisses it out-

RUFIOH: you're nobody. and you're gonna BE nobody 1f you keep talk1ng. RUFIOH: everyone.

RUFIOH: all of you are full of such BULLSH1T.

UNCLE BRO: -He just looks at Rufioh-

DAVE: you really wanna start layin down threats right now

CRONUS: evweryone SHUT UP.

REDGLARE: -She takes a deep breath. Then she looks over at Cronus.-

UNCLE BRO: Dont sweat it d--

RUFIOH: 1 dunno, dumbass. then a—

RUFIOH: -as Cronus raises his voice, Rufioh loses the little grip on his temper that he had and reaches for a chair.-

RUFIOH: -SLAMS IT into the ground with all his strength-

RUFIOH: YOU ALL WANNA MAKE ME SHUT UP. MAKE ME.

CRONUS: -starts strumming something lightly on his keytar, trying to make it as SOOTHING AS POSSIBLE- -STARING HARD AT RUFIOH-

CRONUS: calm dowvn, okay? youre not going to get vwhat you vwant by losing it like that.

DIRK: -LOUD NOISES. he does end up out of his chair now, away from the table, trying very hard not to descend into the survival instincts of his youth. he can't PUNCH AWAY HIS PROBLEMS ANYMORE.-

CRONUS: -the soothing song probably sounds a bit like a certain black eyed peas song called where is the LOVE-

RUFIOH: -he doesn't want to calm down but the music playing and the high tension twisting in his bloodpusher just has angry tears springing up against his will.- 1've been calm all my fuck1ng l1fe.

CRONUS: yeah and youll get your time to talk, but not vwith these guys, they dont knowv vwhat liferas intentions vwere, not really. the only ansvwers youll get are from her and arguing vwith anyone else is pointless. -the calmness starts to weigh down on everyone whether they want to feel it or not. Cronus is unaware of his HOPE POWERS at work, but this feels right regardless, as he's certainly calming HIMSELF down-

LIFERA: -She may have been silent, but more than anything, it was in horror. Again, things spiraled around her, people trying to defend her, and she didn't want it. The time for that had long passed. Now, she just wanted to listen.-

LIFERA: -With Cronus' song filling the previously tense space, she steps toward Davenforth, speaking low.- Let me do this. I do not want you here.

LIFERA: -More importantly, she's looking at Rufioh, and she steps a little closer to him.-

RUFIOH: -the jolt he should feel isn't there but he does know he doesn't want to be near her. He takes a step back, slicks of copper still staining his cheeks.-

CRONUS: -steps over to rufioh himself, continuing to play, and gives him a reassuring pat-

DIRK: -the music at least helps him think a little more clearly, but that gives way to more conscious emotions he doesn't really want to deal with.-

RUFIOH: -why is anybody touching him right now. Do not. He steps further back.-

LIFERA: -And she stops. For a long moment, she doesn't know whether or not she should speak.-

LIFERA: ...I am listening.

CRONUS: -winces again, but just continues to play, trying to ignore the sick feeling in his stomach-

RUFIOH: then you know 1t's only a matter of t1me. -speaks, unable to look away.-

RUFIOH: 1f not me, somebody else.

RUFIOH: nobody 1s go1ng to let you l1ve w1th th1s.

LIFERA: ... That is not the reality that I mind.

RUFIOH: 1 don't see you as gett1ng a say 1n what you m1nd.

LIFERA: -She doesn't say anything to this. There's nothing to be said.-

DAELOS: - When he sees Rufioh start to lash out he growls and almost stands up, but absurdly the stupid keytar music pokes a hole through his anger. As ridiculous it us that it's there at all. He's still tense, but not yet on the verge of interfering. -

REDGLARE: -She's almost... relieved that the feeling of the room has shifted so dramatically. She finally steps forward again.- ...Th1s 1s 4. D1v1s1v3 1ssu3.

REDGLARE: Would you cons1d3r 4 tr14l 1n 3rn3st?

REDGLARE: 1f 1t could b3 4rr4ng3d. -She glances at Dirk, not yet sure that he's all there quite yet.-

CRONUS: -as he continues to play and his own emotions shift from being more about calming things, and more to worry and sickness, the very same transfers in very small doses on everyone listening to his song. Not large enough to affect the calmness, but enough to poke lightly-

RUFIOH: -as the calmness disappates, so does the ugly surge of feeling come to replace it. But outwardly, he is unmoved. Watching motherfuckers delegate.-

DIRK: -he isn't really. it takes a moment to process the words.- Trial... -he's had a lot to say about them being a community, and that is what communities do in situations like this, isn't it? still, he's unsure if it's really his place, knowing what the outcome of such a trial might be. the judgement of someone's life... this is more responsibility then he ever anticipated.-

DIRK: I... would like to discuss that with our council... Before a decision is made. -should he have done that in the first place? his brain is so addled he can't even decide if he should be mad at himself for not knowing what to do sooner.-

DAVE: -paying more attention to Dirk now through his shades- good call

CRONUS: -he.... really cant be here anymore, and leaves-

LIFERA: -She still isn't saying anything. If that's what they want to do with her, she's not going to argue.-

DAELOS: - looks at Dirk and Redglare- What would a trial accomplish? What would the sentencing be? - he's not interested in any of the emotional chaos, he's focused. -

RUFIOH: -the surge is only building.-

REDGLARE: 4 m34sur3d d1scuss1on of 4ll f4cts 4v41l4bl3. W3 c4nnot s3ttl3 th1s m4tt3r l1k3 th1s.

DAVE: you know what would be perfect for this

DAVE: a council

DAVE: oh shit we have one

DAVE: oh shit dirk just said that

DAVE: cool

UNCLE BRO: -He grits his teeth at her words, with a sinking stomach. She didn't want him here, want him to defend her. Eventually he swallows it down, runs his fingers through his hair. He's just quiet for now-

DAELOS: If you want this public forum to dissipate then end it here - he sounds scathing-

RUFIOH: -glancing at Lifera. Bruncle. Daelos. The feeling isn't going away.-

REDGLARE: -She grits her teeth. Whatever feeling was in the air before is gone now, and this is testing every bit of patience she's got.- REDGLARE: 1 4m try1ng v3ry3 h4rd to f1nd som3 sort of comprom1s3 h3r3.

REDGLARE: 4nd th3 l4st th1ng 1 4m go1ng to 4llow 1s for th1s to b3com3 th3 mom3nt l1n3s 4r3 dr4wn.

REDGLARE: You do not sp34k for 4nyon3 but yours3lf. Not for m3, th4t's for d4mn3d sur3. So 1 don't g1v3 4 d4mn wh4t you 4ssum3 4bout my d3s1r3s.

DAELOS: I want to know what you plan to do with the prisoner we put on trial

RUFIOH: -and then he speaks- what the fuck.

LIFERA: Daelos-- That's enough.

RUFIOH: -finds himself snarling- th1s 1s so... FUCKED. GOD DAMN 1T.

DAELOS: - He twitch. He stop. But he's angry. -

UNCLE BRO: Chill out

RUFIOH: fuck you, nobody.

RUFIOH: fuck, fuck. you.

DIRK: -finally draws back towards the table. things can't go on like this. he has to pull himself together, if only for a moment.- That's enough.

DIRK: I've made my decision. We're going to discuss this as a crew at the next council meeting. If we agree to a trial together, then... We will discuss how to carry that out.

DIRK: But. All of you need to disperse. Now.

DIRK: Go to your quarters.

DIRK: And if any of you can't wait to say your peace, then you can kindly be escorted to detainment until the time comes.

DIRK: Which I assure you, it will.

DIRK: We will come to a conclusion together.

LIFERA: -Now Davenforth is getting a look, too, but she looks at Dirk again when he speaks, hesitating, but only because it doesn't seem right that she would be the first to leave.-

UNCLE BRO: -Stop looking at him like that Lif, jeez. He just...He just wants to help-

DAVE: -well he's gonna make sure all your asses clear outta this room-

UNCLE BRO: -This is a mess-

DAELOS: - He's so furious, his jaw is twitching. But he's looking away, slowly drawing himself to. his feet. -

UNCLE BRO: -He can't be in here anymore, his mind is a fog of personal feelings and moral dilemmas. He's just gonna turn to go.-

RUFIOH: -it's really not fair how people were STILL siding with her after all that happened. The tears are springing fresh and raging all over again and he hates this. None of this was in his control but then again. Why didn't he just make it be in his control.-

RUFIOH: -It happens very fast, triggered most likely by the secret look Lifera shot the guy. As Dave makes a move to escort everyone out, Rufioh makes his. His wings spread and he hovers for a second, a cold white feeling spreading throughout his limbs. And like a gust, he disappears.-

RUFIOH: -and appears to face Davenforth.-

UNCLE BRO: -Suddenly a lost boy-

UNCLE BRO: Need somethin

DIRK: -blinks and tries to see what became of rufioh until he sees him before his uncle- ...

RUFIOH: -there's no answer or debating the sword getting driven through his middle.-

REDGLARE: -!

DAELOS:!

REDGLARE: -Her wings jolt, upright, and that feeling in her chest is cold as hell, and gripping like a vice.-

CRONUS: -HAPPENS to walk back in and.... UH.....-

DAVE: -he has no time to think about what's just happened so he flashsteps to disarm rufioh from behind-

ERIDAN: -IMMEDIATELY down there-

RUFIOH: -nothing else matters to him, he's already dropping the blood soaked sword.-

UNCLE BRO: -It's all too sudden, piercing and hot. White hot lightning shot through every synapse. He could feel something wet, from his middle. Words were lost to gurgling, a sloshing and spitting up of the red liquid in his mouth. The world swam, his knees hitting the floor hard-

CRONUS: vwhat did you do?!

REDGLARE: -She flips open her communicator, hands shaking as she pounds on the button for the medical department.- Som3on3's com1ng 1n. Pr3p4r3 4 sp4c3. 1t's 4 st4b 4nd h3's bl33d1ng f4st-- god D4MN 1T--! -and she smashes it onto the ground, pieces of it scattering across the room.-

LIFERA: -She isn't sure whether the shriek she hears comes out of her own mouth or not, but the blood in her veins is ice-cold. She can't move. It's too natural. It's all too honest. She can't see it, and yet, she can't see anything else.-

DIRK: -his blood runs cold, and though his immediate thought -- instinct -- is to smother the life out of rufioh's scrawny little body, he instead drops to catch davenforth before he falls completely to the floor.-

DAVE: -pushes all of his emotions down like they don't even exist as he goes to take his arms and cuff him immediately. he doesn't seem to be fighting yet, thankfully, but he's prepared if he changes his mind-

RUFIOH: -standing there, willing and accepting to recieve his own fate. He knows what he did and he knows why. He only stares onward. Cold.-

REDGLARE: 1F YOU 4R3 N31TH3R S3CUR1TY NOR M3D1C4L 1 W1LL P3RSON4LLY D3T41N 3V3RY S1NGL3 P3RSON WHO DO3S NOT R3TURN TO TH31R D4MN3D QU4RT3RS 1MM3D14T3LY!!!

WQ: -BUSTS A ROOM READY PRONTO-

CRONUS: -oh god, he feels like he's going to be sick and he ends up just standing there-

ERIDAN: -nods nods at redglare APPROVING of how the situation is being handled and.... leaves again-

DIRK: -thank you eridan. he is in no position to give any commands or approval right now.-

DAVE: -gets on to escorting rufioh to detainment, just PRESSING ON. his uncle just got stabbed and this is fine. he isn't going to let it hit him yet- do i gotta even ask what the fuck that was

RUFIOH: -nope. No words. He got the blood he came for.-

REDGLARE: -glares at Cronus- R1GHT NOW.

UNCLE BRO: -He can't feel himself fall into Dirks arms. In fact, he can't feel much of anything, just cold creeping into his veins and fire in his lungs as he gasps uselessly for air-

REDGLARE: G44444H!!! -she grabs a table and flips it over.-

LIFERA: -She's still standing there, too, deaf to everything. She can't move toward him, and she can't cry.-

JOHN: - probably also helping WQ. They are dream team. -

CRONUS: -he stares at redglare, his face very pale, but he's still not moving-

WQ: -internal SCREAMING-

DIRK: W--we got you. John and Qirin are here. 

DIRK: They patched me up before. I know they'll do the same for you-- -welp he's sobbing suddenly. why is this happening?-

UNCLE BRO: -There's no response. He's limp.-

WQ: -also she's quickly wheeling in a crash cart cuz John has probably got the hospital gurney/stretcher/whatever the hell-

DIRK: -no no, this ISN'T happening. he has a hard time letting go of him, but he does manage it so the doctors can do their thing.-

REDGLARE: -she SCREAMS again, completely indistinct, one arm grabbing at Cronus' collar and the other at Daelos. SURE, ONE IS HEAVY AS HELL but she's absolutely livid and her blood is like 90% adrenaline right now ANYWAYS. they're both going back to their rooms -

REDGLARE: -DRAG-

JOHN: - he's using the windy thing to make them go FASTER. -

WQ: =Thank you, John, she always knew you were ace. Her heart is racing, but she managed to retain her calm and briefly glanced at Dirk. How? Hell if she knew!=

WQ: Captain. =And then more urgently.= Dirk. =She firmly squeezed his shoulder. 'Trust us,' the squeeze says.=

CRONUS: -he is dragged, and he doesn't really put much of a fight-

DIRK: -a trembling hand reaches for hers and clasps it, which unfortunately means more blood getting spread around. he isn't looking at her, though, just staring ahead at the spilled red.-

WQ: Dirk. =She says again, more force behind her words as her hard shelled hand squeezes his shoulder tighter.= John, Mitzi, and I are going to do phenomenally. You are our Captain. Take the lead here.

WQ: -and with that, her hand is gone and she is hurriedly making damn sure Davenforth doesn't go into shock while lightly tapping his face so he stays awake.-

JOHN: - He thinks it's a weird choice to try to comfort dirk BEFORE helping the guy who got stabbed but hey, as long as it gets done. He's working on stopping the bleeding enough do they can move him. -

WQ: -she knew John has her covered. (Also mun had a serious brainfart)-

DIRK: -he's their captain... and this is where he lead them. he can't bring himself to move for another few painful moments, but he isn't even sure what is left to do, or where he should even go. whenever he gets up, and wherever he goes, it's in a hurry.-

JOHN: - eventually they get Davenforth onto the gurney and on the way to the infirmary, once again using the wind to speed them. The goal is getting him stable.-

WQ: -is dave even breathing?! HOW IS YOUR PULSE DAVE, TELL ME-

UNCLE BRO: -Very faint pulse. Itty bitty pulse.-

WQ: -THEN YOU GET A SHOT OF ADRENALINE-

WQ: -in the IV. Not the heart, because that is a common misconception and would have caused more bleeding. And then you would have died. Which would be bad-

[taskforcetumut]

ATRIUM SECURITY RECORDING 0390

JOHN: -he's stapling INFORMATIVE HEALTH POSTERS all over the atrium-

DAVE: -right behind John- nerd

JOHN: -STAPLES HIS HAND. just kidding.-

JOHN: -flips him off- hey dude.

DAVE: what kind of greeting is that

JOHN: -keeps flipping him off- idk what you're talking about this how i chat with my bffs.

DAVE: -gives him double bird- youre slackin

JOHN: i have a stapler in my other hand SIR.

JOHN: hey you should use your ninja moves to put it on the ceiling so people have to look up at it.

JOHN: or i could do that because i can literally float.

JOHN: jesus... does cloned equal inbred?

-keeps stapling in shame-

ROSE: There is certainly a similar frequency of birth defects. -She pulls one of the posters that JUST got stapled to the wall to read it.-

JOHN: just in time to offend my demographic. i am a real comedian! -dave and rose at the same time? hot dog!-(edited)

ROSE: I am, to a fair degree, far more offended by your choices in graphic design.

DAVE: guess so -glances over at rose- thats it shes ruining shit better get the laminator DAVE: get those motherfuckers all shiny

JOHN: hey, i haven't done this stuff since college. take it easy.

JOHN: -IT REALLY IS VERY BAD. HE USED PAPYRUS.-

JOHN: -its all about drugs and overdosing and where to seek help on the ship.-

ROSE: I'm almost positive that I would find the words "medical supplies clip art" in your search history were I so inclined to check.

JOHN: ...isn't that what its there for?

ROSE: Gods help us all.

JOHN: good thinking on the lamination, dave.(edited)

JOHN: next time.

DAVE: how bout i just design the flyers DAVE: youll get help from a professional

JOHN: well you are more talented but i'm not sure if you can be trusted with that kind of responsibility.

JOHN: remember A Very Special Episode Of SBAHJ?(edited)

MITUNA: -Here he comes, skating in. He screeches to a halt at one of the posters. Mituna reads this.-

DAVE: how could i forget DAVE: i made a masterpiece DAVE: -looks at Mituna- sup

MITUNA: Y0 WH05 7H3 N3RD 7URD PU771NG 7H353 UP

MITUNA: L0L 8L4Z3 17(edited)

JOHN: i am the nerd! hi! -LARGE WAVING-

MITUNA: -Squints. He look like a man. A Jake man-

JOHN: :D? -why the fuck is he looking at me like that-

MITUNA: -Him wave-

ROSE: I don't suppose you have any questions about the ambulatory syringe on the bottom left.

ROSE: The one shouting in impact font, Needle Safety, with no less than three exclamation marks.

ROSE: One could say he really stuck with me.

JOHN: ooh hoo hoo. drug puns...

JOHN: uh yeah but seriously if you have any questions i will personally answer them! -HE IS FIELD TESTING!-

ERIDAN: -hes been very not around as of late and floats in here on his hover chair his wifesprit lovingly crafted for him- -stares at posters- the fucks this about

JOHN: dude sweet hoverchair! -instantly distracted.-

MITUNA: 4PP4R3N7LY P33P5 4R3 D1CK1NG 7H3 D4NK

MITUNA: 4DD1C73D

DAVE: yo eridan DAVE: we are studying what not to do in graphic design DAVE: this is a solid example

ERIDAN: -UH!--sweats because he danks some og with dirk every now and then- huh you dont say

DAVE: -same. Dirk you bad influence-

JOHN: -floating up to check out Dan's sweet ride, but frowns- fuck you, dude its not THAT bad.

JOHN: -he doesn't know all his friends are drug users yet.-

DAVE: it looks like the devil shit on a page

MITUNA: -He too, vapes the dank og bud-

JOHN: -LITERALLY EVERYONE-

DAVE: and said what i have created shall be called microsoft clip art

JOHN: you are so uninvited to my pj party.

DAVE: it will be endless and look fuckin ridiculous

DAVE: not even ironic

DAVE: it will haunt pc users for days to come

MITUNA: LM40 7H475 FUCK1NG G4Y DUD3

DAVE: consider this cyber judgment day

DAVE: this is the end folks

JOHN: don't rap about how shitty my posters look, you horse's ass! -yELLS-

MITUNA: -Still cackling about pj party tbh-

DAVE: -shrugs- because you told me not to im thinkin you do want me to bust out a rap DAVE: somebody throw me a beat

ERIDAN: -hes inspecting these posters- this looks like somethin rox wwould make

JOHN: -just...facepalms-

DAVE: wow way to diss your wife

DAVE: disrespectful

ERIDAN: wwhat she makes em shitty on purposr

JOHN: ->8(-

ROSE: Yes, but are they making you consider the importance of drug awareness?

MITUNA: W3R3 4W4R3

MITUNA: -beatboxes enthusiastically-

JOHN: ah jeez...

JOHN: -VENGEFULLY CONTINUES TO STAPLE THEM. NEVERMIND I'LL FIND SOMEONE LIKE YOUUUUUUU-

ROXY: =Rolls in, looks at all the activity= ROXY: are we watchin john do work? im here for that

ERIDAN: wwhy wwould i need to be drug awware im already awware a the shit i do

ERIDAN : -scratches head- pretty fuckin sure im not addicted am i addicted rox

DAVE: -bobs his head and starts rapping as background music because I can't keep up enough to write out a whole rap so just use ur imagination.-

ROXY: addicted to junkfood =pats him face=

JOHN: people might not know the dangers or they may not know where to get help if it goes too far!!! -he's talk shouting aggressively over dave-

ERIDAN: fuck do i need help for that -BLUSHING, whyd you reveal his dirty secret, roxy-

MITUNA: -Beatboxing so hard rn- 420 8L4Z3 4ND PR4153 7H3 D4NK 0G GL4Z3

ERIDAN: -stares at mituna-

DAVE: wikka wikka

ROXY: nah thats for more serious stuff ROXY: im glad ur puttin these up john

ERIDAN: oh pheww okay

JOHN: ...here, you get a free piece of sugar free candy for being a treasure. -hands her sort of an offbrand tootsie roll type thing-

ROXY: ooooh sugar free candy =takes it and unwraps it= i hope it has that neat after taste :P

CRONUS: -also walks in now, and sees one of the posters- -looks over and stares john DEAD IN THE EYE-

JOHN: it does...actually i don't like them. -takes out the entire bag and gives it to her-

ROSE: Do you really think the honorable makers of Goodie Twist would let you down?

ROXY: =then there's this asshole=

JOHN: -aaaaaaaaaugh-(edited)

ROXY: OH SHIT

ROXY: =takes the whole bag= score

ROSE: -PEEPS-

ERIDAN: wwhy the hell wwould anyone eat that sugarfree garbage

ROXY: for many reasons for one no onell steal it ROXY: and some of its kinda good

MITUNA: D0ND3 3574 L4 818L1073C4 M3 LL4M0 7UN4 8UN5 L4 4R4N4 D15C073C4

ROXY: =gives Mituna a handful of sugarfree tootsie rolls, let her see that tootsie roll=

CRONUS: -rips the poster he was looking at down and crumples it into a wad before............ putting it in his sylladex. FOR THROWING AWAY... ELSEWHERE.... OBVIOUSLY... HES NOT KEEPING THIS AND PLANNING TO USE IT NOPE-

MITUNA: -Looks at Roxy like she pissed on Blob. Woman how dare you he needs sugar-

DAVE: discoteca muñeca la biblioteca es en bigote grande perro manteca(edited)

JOHN: -he almost gets pissed because he thinks Cronus is just destroying his poster but then he sees him put it away and feels better.-

JOHN: ...what about libraries???

ROXY: cmon just take it ROXY: you know you dont want to

CRONUS: -and with that he shoves his hands in his pockets and quietly leaves-(edited)

ERIDAN: rox stop tryin to poison him

ERIDAN: hes already sufferin enough

JOHN: -guess who instantly feels better about his posters? this guy.-

ROXY: everyone needs this kinda suffering every once in a while

MITUNA: M4N73C4 81G0735 G1G4N73 P3QU3N0 L4 C483Z4 35 N13V3 C3RV354 35 8U3N0

DAVE: buenos dias me gusta papas frías bigote de la cabra es cameron diaz

MITUNA: -Explosion noise-

MITUNA: Y34H 801

DAVE: boi DAVE: yeah DAVE: what

MITUNA: 175 N07 CHUCK 73574 4ND 175 N07 7W0 7H0U54ND N1N3

DAVE: word

[taskforcetumut]

ATRIUM SECURITY RECORDING 0374

DIRK: -passing through the cafeteria, messing with a few projects on his computer shades while he goes to grab himself some fud.-

DAVE: -purposely bumps into dirk from the side- whoa sorry didnt see you there

DIRK: -stands there, unphased- Who threw that piece of paper at me?

DAVE: piece of paper my ass

DAVE: sup

DIRK: Grabbing sustenance. -but now that he's looking at food instead of his shades, he's feeling indecisive-

DAVE: ok robot

DAVE: ob tai ning subs ten ance

DAVE: 50% complete DAVE: buffering DAVE: to look like an id i ot

DIRK: You know, you'd sound even more cliched if you did the robot at the same time.

DAVE: yeah whatever

DAVE: im gettin pizza and aj

DAVE: you cant stop me

DIRK: That's the worst combination. -he says, while getting pizza and orange soda-

ERIDAN: -slowly rolls on in here, looking kinda haggard-

DAVE: -oh here's eridan. hopefully he doesn't leave again this time. he's distracted at dirk as he sup nods toward the fish troll- hey

DIRK: -also nods at him- ... You look a little rough. DIRK: Eat too much sushi last night?

ERIDAN: as if thats any a your goddamned business wwhether i did or not -HE TOTALLY DID.-

DIRK: So, that's a yes.

KANAYA: -distantly- Yes

DIRK: I knew it.

DAVE: you gonna eat with us

ERIDAN: maybe

ERIDAN: -goes to get fooooood-

DAVE: -sits with his tray- hey eridan

DAVE: aj goes better with pizza than orange soda right

DIRK: Don't be ridiculous. -finishes loading stuff onto a tray-

ERIDAN: wwhy wwould i wwant any a those things -is of course just getting fish-

DAVE: but aj goes better with pizza than orange soda right

[taskforcetumut]

ATRIUM SECURITY RECORDING 0369

 7:13 PM

DAD: -is conducting an obligatory Memorial Day cookout out in the cafeteria, minus a bbq pit. There will be many hot dogs, hamburgers, steaks, and other various meats for people to help themselves to. Not to mention grilled seasoned veggies for people who don't do meat, and lots and lots of home made desserts. Cupcakes, pies, and ice cream. James himself is wearing an apron with the simple words APRON on it. Happy holiday, folks.-

7:14 PM

ERIDAN: -he is going to eat himself into a food coma off of all these meats-

ERIDAN: -meat coma-

7:15 PM

DAD: -Excellent.-

7:22 PM

NEPETA: :33 < =PEEPS LOUDLY, she's stuffing steak into her pockets, also cupcakes, also everything else=

7:22 PM

DAD: -discreetly passes a tray of ribs to Nepeta from under the table-

7:24 PM

NEPETA: :33 < =gentle gasp, secret food= :00 (thank mew!!) NEPETA: :33 < =puts ice cream on the ribs and sits right on the table to eats them=

7:25 PM

DAD: PLEASE REMOVE YOUR FEET FROM THE TABLE SURFACE, NEPETA. I ALSO HOPE YOU KEPT IN MIND TO WASH YOUR HANDS BEFORE DIGGING IN.

7:30 PM

NEPETA: :33 < my f33t apawrnt on the table, my butt is! h33h33h33 =Also James, please, we both know the answer to that. She's biting into this sweet and savory deliciousness and kicking her feet over the edge of the table=

7:32 PM

DAD: -he is appeased that she kicks her feet off at least. He will leave a pile of moist towelettes for her.-

7:37 PM

NEPETA: :33 < =They'll do to sop up the dairy and dripping sauce because that's what's pouring on them=

7:39 PM

DIRK: -peers into the cafeteria. Oh yeah, he always seems to forget that holidays like Memorial Day are a Thing for humans. He can certainly appreciate it whenever he does remember. He awkwardly shuffles over to get some FOOD.-

7:40 PM

DAD: -Please enjoy all the foods. Don't forget the potato salad.-

7:40 PM

DIRK: -oh fuck salad of potate-

7:41 PM

NEPETA: :33 < =She's gonna dip a steak in the whole bowl=

7:42 PM

EQUIUS: D --> -No she is not. He's grabbing that steak hand-

7:43 PM

DAD: -Sir. You do not come between a lady and her steak.-

7:43 PM

NEPETA: :33 < !! =A horse!= hi equihiss!

7:43 PM

DIRK: -goes to sit with Equius and nepeta with his BIG OL PLATE-

7:47 PM

EQUIUS: D --> Hello Nepeta, Dirk, Sir James -Returns Neps steak to her plate and gives her a hearty scoop of potato salad-

7:47 PM

NEPETA: :33 < hi dirk! would mew like some steak in purr pawtato salad?

7:48 PM

DAVE: -missing one of James' cookouts is out of the question. there's only one smell associated with that alluring food aroma and it's unmistakably the best around. He first approaches James and the food- hey sir

7:49 PM

DIRK: -looks at the steak on his plate... Looks at the potato salad.- That doesn't sound too bad.

7:50 PM

ERIDAN: -nom nom nom schlorping meat in his corner of the world-

7:51 PM

JADE: -she has a baby. She's sleepy. BUT SHES HERE. HELLO WORLD.-

7:51 PM

EQUIUS: D --> -He will have some veggies, and a small side of potato salad-

7:51 PM

DAD: HELLO DAVE. I HOPE YOU ARE ENJOYING YOUR EVENING. -have some potato salad, Dave-

7:53 PM

DAVE: -THAT MY BABY. He takes some potato salad- yeah its pretty solid DAVE: better now with this fuckin ace potato salad

7:54 PM

NEPETA: :33 < thank mew! =Dips her steak into her OWN potato salad, puts feet on Equius= hi dave eridan and jade and dove! oh! (sorry) =takes a big bite=

7:54 PM

DAVE: sup nepeta

7:55 PM

JADE: hi!

7:55 PM

ERIDAN: -nods at nepeta, his mouth too full to give her a real reply-

7:55 PM

DAD: -dips his hat and lets the children mingle- HELLO JADE.

7:55 PM

JADE: -hovers over the potato salad... She could think of a song to this food probably...- hi dad!

JADE: -she's given up correcting that... Just let it go...-

7:56 PM

DAD: -It's correct. You are his daughter now.-

7:56 PM

DIRK: -cuts up his steak and combines pieces with potato salad. Om. OH SHIT ITS HIS NIECE.-

DIRK: -waves at family-

7:58 PM

DOVE: -THAT UNCLE. She's staring at him specifically.-

JADE: -meanwhile she doesn't even notice Dirk. Owned...-

7:58 PM

EQUIUS: D --> Hello, neighbors -Coos at Dove a little before politely pushing Nepeta's feet off him-

7:59 PM

JADE: ... you made veggies too?

8:00 PM

DAD: YES. I RECALL YOU DO NOT EAT TRADITIONAL BARBEQUED MEAT. OR ANY KIND OF MEAT. DAD: PLEASE HELP YOURSELF TO A KEBAB.

8:00 PM

DOVE: habluh

JADE: thank you!!

8:01 PM

DIRK: -suddenly beside Jade-

8:02 PM

JADE: --dirk!!

8:02 PM

NEPETA: :33 < =Rude, she scoots that much closer to him=

8:02 PM

DIRK: This is mine now. -he's going to snatch this child-

8:02 PM

JADE: oh jeez!! haha

8:02 PM

DAVE: -SNUBS DIRK jk have a sup nod. He's loading up his plate- wow child thief

8:03 PM

EQUIUS: D --> -Neighbor baby no come back-

8:03 PM

DOVE: -chewing on her fingers and flapping the other hand at her uncle as he steals her-

8:04 PM

DIRK: Hello Dove. -snuggles this baby-

8:04 PM

DAD: -That is adorable. It is worthy of a picture, which he is quickly taking.-

8:04 PM

DOVE: habrada

DOVE: -squeezes Dirk's chin in her free hand-

8:05 PM

DAVE: shes telling you to shut up

8:05 PM

JADE: -she is grabbin veg-

8:05 PM

WQ: -Having already known a long time ago what human Memorial Day was, here she be. TEREZI: -After having looked up what human Memorial Day was so she wouldn't make an ass of herself, here she be.-

8:07 PM

DIRK: Too bad. I've got too much to say, like how cute she is. -carries her away and back to his seat, placing her on his knee-

8:08 PM

DAVE: CHILD THIEF

8:08 PM

DOVE: -she's leaning and trying to grab Dirk's food with her tiny fat baby fingers-

8:08 PM

EQUIUS: D --> -Grazes gently-

8:09 PM

DIRK: -at Dave- Try and stop me bitch. -offers dove a bit of mushy potato salad-

8:09 PM

ERIDAN: -exits-

8:09 PM

DOVE: -NOM-

8:13 PM

DIRK: -cries-

8:15 PM

WQ: -approaches the spread and greets F'ther.- WQ: Tireless preparation again, I see. The set up is quite lovely, so organized. WQ: -SO DELICIOUS-LOOKING-

8:17 PM

DAD: THANK YOU, QIRIN. IT IS VERY NICE THAT YOU COULD JOIN THE FESTIVITIES. DAD: PLEASE HELP YOURSELF TO ANYTHING THAT YOU WOULD LIKE.

8:17 PM

DAVE: -internally frowns at Eridan leaving. He might be feeling SLIGHTLY responsible for this. He's a little distracted so he sets his food on the table and starts to EAT-

8:18 PM

NEPETA: :33 < =Leans over to eat some of Equius' food with her saucy mug= what have mew b33n doing today?

8:20 PM

WQ: Thank you, James, I shall. -begins to put together a hamburger. This...is the first time she's ever had one, so she might be side-eyeing others' food for examples- WQ: Have you gotten the chance to try this food for yourself?

8:21 PM

EQUIUS: D --> Working in tandem with Bec, to ensure the optimization of the ships engines -He was petting him. Oh look, it's time to play No Nepeta no, and push her away from his food-

8:21 PM

DAD: I WILL SIT AND EAT WHEN I AM SURE EVERYONE HAS HAD THEIR FILL.

8:24 PM

NEPETA: :33 < h33h33 oh rrrrreeeeeaaaallllyyy??? =Leans back momentarily then leans back in quickly to take a big mouthful of his dumb salad=

8:25 PM

WQ: -what is proper hamburger anatomy? Help. She might be stacking it backwards. At least she can differentiate that the bottom bun goes on the bottom.- WQ: That is thoughtful of you. WQ: But with all that work you must be hungry too, no?

8:30 PM

DAD: TRUST WHEN I SAY I HARDLY THINK ABOUT IT. DAD: BUT NEVER FEAR. I WILL BE PARTAKING IN THE DINNER IN DUE TIME.

8:34 PM

DOVE: -she is just a potato salad mess-

8:35 PM

DAVE: -that my girl-

8:42 PM

WQ: -puts the meat patty on top of everything- WQ: That is only slightly reassuring, but I will hold you to that. ^_^

8:45 PM

DAD: THANK YOU. -offers small pleasant smile right back at her-

8:46 PM

WQ: -Shimmies down the line to get some veggies-

[taskforcetumut]

ATRIUM SECURITY RECORDING 0363

JAKE: -is compiling himself a delicious waffle breakfast. So much syrup and egg is going to be distributed today. There will be no survivors.-

BREAKFAST: =SPEAKING OF ME HERE I COME!! A three-headed hound comes running into the cafeteria. Tail wagging and two heads barking while the other ruffs softer but still excited=

JAKE: -Oh gosh! A real life hellhound! Jake is also excited and sets his plate aside.- And who is this handsome character??? Hello! Bark and bark to you too! Would you like some breakfast???

BREAKFAST: =BARKx2 ruffx1 !!! That's them they heard their name and gets up to lick Jake excitedly. THey're here, what's up!!?=

JAKE: -is lick!!! And he is laughing.- What a good pooch you are! Excellent! JAKE: Youre deserving of a treat i think. -Breakfast is going to be fed some breakfast sausage links.- Now keep in mind to share yes? Theres enough to go around!

BREAKFAST: !!! =They know how to share, more or less. The head on the far right doesn't inhale the sassage as quickly as the others. The far left sniffs at the bits left over and the middle head barks protectively at the left but eventually nudges heads against it while the right eats=

JAKE: -So much is happening with this doge. Jake is delighted and so many treats are distributed.-

KARKAT: =He can't keep up so much with Breakfast, his fast-walking slowed down to a moderate stride. But in he walks. Devoid of his dark bags. His skin is glowing, pores clean, crops flourishing. A fresh ass Vantas=

JAKE: -glances up when he sees movement and feels his stomach fall out from under him. He fucking DROPS the plate of bacon and sausage he was holding.- HOLY FUCKIN G EASTER SUNDAY????????????? KARKAT??????????????????

JAKE: -there is now a messy broken breakfast plate on the ground for the happy doge.-

BREAKFAST: =FIRST COME FIRST SERVES! Just two eager maws and one more hesitant head going for them breakfast meats. Also it's a mutant dog so maybe the jaws/stomach are strong enough for shards of ceramic=

KARKAT: =Makes a face at them gorging themselves= .... YEAH. HI. =This whole conversation again=

JAKE: Youre alive! And its really you!!!!!!!! -idiot gigantus is beginning to blubber, big old fat tears pooling out from behind his glasses. No time to waste, he is rapidly crossing the cafeteria for a body slam of a hug. Scooping him up and everything.-

KARKAT: =OH GOD NO. But his reunions have been more or less various degrees of tears, snot and tight embraces. He thinks Willou broke his ribs but if she didn't Jake definitely is. He wheeze from his mouth and sides and puts his hand on Jake's blubbery face because that's tight= HHHFUCK! YES, IT HHH, IS!

JAKE: Youre like a dream come true! -WEEPY and refuses to set him down- Last time i saw you we were buckass nude in the hellish land of slime and the serpentine gods of douchebaggery!!!!

JAKE: -He does register the wheezing and puts the flailing Vantas on the ground again. Sniffs grossly.-

KARKAT: =He's set back down and tries to catch his breath= IT. HHH. FEELS LIKE A DREAM. BUT, I'M BACK.

JAKE: -regarding him with such watery-eyed hero worship.- You look fantastic. Vantastic even!

KARKAT: I FEEL THAT. FANTASTIC. NOT THE OTHER THING. =Finally stands up straight and gestures to himself= BODY WISE ANYWAY. IT'S FUCKING WEIRD.

JAKE: Body wise? -giving him... a once over?? He looks pretty fine to Jake.-

KARKAT: IT'S WEIRD. IT DOESN'T. HAVE ALL THE WEAR OF TEN SWEEPS I GUESS.

JAKE: Do you feel stronger? Better?? Faster?? STRONGER?? -goofy grins-

KARKAT: =Rolls eyes= KIND OF. IT'S HARD TO EXPLAIN.

JAKE: Explain away! I want to learn every detail. -remembers his plate of waffles which has to be soggy by now but Jake gives no shits.-

KARKAT: =He's not su sure if there's a lot of it he wants to get into but he goes to get breakfast= JUST. I DON'T KNOW MAN. KARKAT: I FEEL FINE WITH EVERYTHING. (hhh) MY BODIES NEVER FELT THIS LOOSE? KARKAT: (hhh) I GUESS, IT'S SOME SHITTY CONSOLATION PRIZE FOR (hhh) DYING AND COMING BACK WITH A FUCKED UP BODY.

JAKE: Youre... -gives him a very concerned glance as he is putting the waffle plate down- Are you having trouble breathing?

KARKAT: =grabs up some fruit because he's not really hungry still= MORE LIKE THE UNIVERSE FELT THE NEED TO FUCK ME UP EVEN MORE (hhh). KARKAT: I'VE GOT FUCKING GILLS NOW. SO THAT'S (hhh) GREAT. KARKAT: I DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW THE FUCKING THINGS WORK.

JAKE: Oh! Gills? -Is this not a normal thing? Jake is picturing Karkat with the whole fins and gill combination clear in his mind.- Like the seadweller fish fellows? JAKE: Shouldnt that be considered an upgrade? In fact i should say it does! -laughs heartily- Youre a brand new fish troll now!

KARKAT: YES. LIKE (hhh) THAT. =It got that much harder to breathe, he felt like he was losing more air than before the wheeze a bit louder as he leaned on the table, and what do you know he now has earfins Jake. Look at this. C'mon=

JAKE: ...Wait. Huh?? -rapid blinking. He imagined it so flippant and offhanded that Jake has no idea the possibility of what he might have done right now.- Wait. JAKE: What. JAKE: ... JAKE: Karkat?

KARKAT: =There's all this extra sensory information buzzing around in his head now, things he doesn't know what to do with or how to process. Something strange tickling his hair, or being tickled by that and they flick. He feels the rush of air on something foreign on himself= KARKAT: (hhhh) WHAT. =He's halfassed responding because there's no way in hell his hands aren't going to touch the sensitive webbing and frills of bright red earfins= (hhhh)

JAKE: This is... what the fuck!!!! -AGHAST and panicked- Were those always there????

KARKAT: =No shit. These were, the pads of his fingers follow the spines down to his face. Attached. and he can feel the same weird openness on his neck like on his sides. Still hissing out that air. What?? What the-- he's dizzy now. Time to pass the fuck out. Bye=

JAKE: SHIT. OH MY GOD. -There he goes. Jake is left to flail and attempt to catch him.- WHAT HAVE I DONE?????? JAKE: MEDIC?? IS THERE SOMEONE AROUND??????? HELP!!!!

KARKAT: =You killed him. That's what you did=

KARKAT: =AGAIN=

BREAKFAST: =Is also concerned, this is a lot of yelling. Whines x3=

ERIDAN: -HAPPENS to be wheeling nearby when he hears jake screaming... ???- -wheels on over- the fuck is goin- ERIDAN: wwhat the shit is kars body doin in here

JAKE: -He is panicking severely and attempting to scoop up Karkat's unconscioius body. He is halfway through the act when Eridan wheels over.- I DONT- HE- I- JAKE: -has dissolved into incomprehensible wheezing and shaking. He can't talk anymore and is just trying to pick him up.-

KARKAT: =He is the slightly wheezey rag doll=

ERIDAN: -WHEELS CLOSER- wwait hes fuckin breathin ERIDAN: -time to inS-WOAH WHAT- this isnt kar kar doesnt havve fins

JAKE: I-C-cant- -Well enough of this Jake is going to summon ALL OF THE MANGRITS and take off running with Karkat. Infirmary bound he is!!!!!!!!!!!! SORRY ERIDAN. He's bolting past him.-

DIRK: -enters to see jake running off- ...

DIRK: -looks at eridan-

KARKAT: =BYE=

DIRK: -JAKE BETTER NOT HAVE BEATEN SOMEONE ELSE UP AGAIN SO HELP ME-

ERIDAN: -....... watches jake go- -looks at dirk- wwhat the fuck is goin on

DIRK: Beats me. I just got here.

ERIDAN: -he FEELS like he should be following jake wherever the hell he just ran off to but it's hard to go fast in this chair- he had kar or wwell an imposter kar this one had fins

DIRK: ... Wait, Karkat? What?

ERIDAN: yeah he had fake kar i dont knoww wwhy but he did he wwas breathin an evverythin

DIRK: That don't make any sense. -concerned noises- ... I guess I should investigate further.

ERIDAN: wwait im comin too *FROWN-

DIRK: Alright. I won't stop you.

[taskforcetumut]

ATRIUM SECURITY RECORDING 0362

REDGLARE: -She throws a few datapads on one of the tables in the atrium. The Firefly Biome her room has slowly become over the past few months can be a little distracting, and having accidentally squashed one recently, she has decided to just move on to find a different place to do her work. Not that she was expecting Dirk to be as diligent about the filing of prompt. Doubly so when such reports tend to consist of little more than "Stardate five twenty-one, all is well." It's more a matter of habit than anything else.-

FEFERI: -snooping in on Redglare with a big smile on her face.- 38) FEFERI: Water you )(ave t)(ere, Miss Pyrope? Some files?

REDGLARE: -EYES HER-

REDGLARE: Y3s. F1l3s of n3gl1g4bl3 1mport4nc3, mostly. Som3 1nclud1ng r3ports on your tr4nsf3r to th3 n3w d3p4rtm3nt.

REDGLARE: Cons1d3r1ng th3y don't cont41n 4nyth1ng not 4lr34dy w3ll known, wouldn't worry too much 4bout wh4t 1t s4ys.

FEFERI: Usually paperwork is pretty boring... but maybe not in t)(is case! -peering at the datapads anyway. Very curious about the file formats.- It's good to keep track of w)(at's going on in t)(e department! FEFERI: I could even go as far as say it'... efis)(ient. )(e)(e)(e! FEFERI: Can I )(elp in any way?

REDGLARE: 1 usu4lly do th3s3 on my own. But. 4ctu4lly.

REDGLARE: -She picks up one of the pads. The others have... essays. Very long essays. Bullet points. A graph or too. It all seems HIGHLY unnecessary.-

REDGLARE: You w3r3 pr3s3nt for our tr41n1ng dr1lls for th3 f1rst t1m3. T3ll m3. D1d you, 1n your own op1n1on, h4v3 4ny d1ff1culty f4ll1ng 1n l1n3 w1th th3 oth3r sh1pm3n?

FEFERI: Nope! -replies promptly- T)(e routines were pretty standard and easy to follow. FEFERI: I'm actually conc)(erned T)(-EY can't keep up wit)( M-E. I'm ready for more action! -bounces a little-

REDGLARE: You could 3l4bor4t3 on th4t thought. Not n3c3ss4ry to n4m3 n4m3s. -SHE WILL KNOW ANYWAYS-

REDGLARE: Po1nts 1n n33s of 1mprov3m3nt would h3lp.

FEFERI: )(mmm! Well. -taps her chin as she considers this- FEFERI: -Everyone's working )(ard as it is. T)(e drills work, I know we're getting new equipment soon... Like armor and stuff. FEFERI: Maybe we can do simulation exercises in t)(e VR room? And pinpoint weaknesses in rank t)(roug)( action! FEFERI: Sea w)(ere we can improve and )(ow?

REDGLARE: Not3d.

REDGLARE: Know w3'r3 go1ng to h4v3 to ch4ng3 our str4t3gy wh3n th3 n3w 3qu1pm3nt 4rr1v3s.

FEFERI: I t)(ink it's -EXCITING. -fin wiggles- Do you need )(elp planning stuff out?? FEFERI: Maybe we can do somefin wit)( an obstacle course! To c)(allenge t)(e group on t)(eir timing versus t)(e terrain! FEFERI: We can also take t)(e winged trolls into account and plan some aerial formations and strategies! FEFERI: T)(ere's no -END to w)(at we can do!

REDGLARE: Th4t's tru3. 4r3 you look1ng for 4n off1c3r pos1t1on?

FEFERI: ACTUALLY, yes. 38) FEFERI: I )(ave certain SKRILLS t)(at I would like to make use of! FEFERI: I reely don't want to lie. It's not fun pretending like I don't )(ave t)(at kind of ambition.

REDGLARE: No, 1t's p3rf3ctly f1n3. 1t 1s good h4v1ng som3on who... m4y 1n f4ct be qu4l1f13d for the rol3.

REDGLARE: 1 w1ll note th4t 1n my r3port.

FEFERI: T)(ank you for taking me into consideration! FEFERI: I guess all I need are good recommendations.

FEFERI: And a test! I'd love to take a test! -starry eyes-

REDGLARE: Th3 oth3r offc3rs w1ll h4v3 to g1v3 th31r 4pprov4l. 4nd you would n33d som3 mor3 3xp3r13nc3 w1th th3 t34m.

FEFERI: T)(at's very fair! -She's... not too concerned. It's Dualscar and Darkleer. Both of them are Alternian traditionalists and also it's Dualscar. She's pretty sure she has this in the bag.- I'll s)(rimply keep up t)(e good work! 38)

REDGLARE: V3ry w3ll. M1ght b3 good to p1ck out 4 f3w 4ux1l14ry off1c3rs.

FEFERI: Yea)(! T)(e c)(ain of command after t)(e First Officers doesn't appear very clear. FEFERI: It's just somet)(ing else we s)(ould definitely improve on!

REDGLARE: Th4t'd p4rt of th3 probl3m. The JOs w3r3 r4nk3d 4s such und3r TUMUT. W3 d1dn't h4v3 4 th1rd th3 st4ff 4s w3 do now.

FEFERI: Yea)(... -scritches her chin in thought.- And we're training so muc)( but for w)(at exactly? Wit)( a community t)(is small, everyone else also needs to be prepared to defend t)(emselves! T)(e only problem is guaranteeing t)(at t)(ey CAN.

FEFERI: T)(ese are questions we s)(ould probably bring up to Dirk at some point.

REDGLARE: Y3s. Soon. Soon3r th4n l4t3r, pr3f3rr4bly.

FEFERI: W)(y don't we message )(im rig)(t now? I mean we're bot)( )(-ER-E, rig)(t?

FEFERI: Let's get somefin done! 38D -pulls out her shell shaped comm-

REDGLARE: ...4l. R1ght. -SHE DIDN'T PREPARE AN ESSAY FOR THIS-

FEFERI: -You have to be prepared for the worst always! She is ringing up Dirk. RING RING, GLUBSUCKER.-

REDGLARE: -She would want TWO OR THREE ALTERNARIVES TO PROPOSE but too late for that now-

DIRK: -IS BEING RUNG??-

FEFERI: )(i Dirk! -pips EXCITABLY whenever he answers- Do you )(ave a minute? It's Redglare and I.

DIRK: -he does sound a little distracted- Oh, uh... Yeah. What do you need?

FEFERI: Just to sc)(edule a meeting. I know you're busy so I won't bore you wit)( details. -hand on her hip as she speaks- FEFERI: We )(ave to discuss some concerns we )(ave about t)(e s)(ipmen department?

FEFERI: W)(enever you're available! T)(e sooner t)(e better.

DIRK: Um... Hmm. DIRK: I could do that now. Just give me a moment.

REDGLARE: T4k3 your t1m3.

DIRK: Ok. I'm good. Where are you? I'll be right there.

FEFERI: T)(e atrium! Again, feel free to take your time.

DIRK: -NEVER. he forgets to say goodbye when he hangs up.-

FEFERI: ... FEFERI: I guess )(e's coming! -snaps comm shut and beams at Redglare-

FEFERI: S)(ould I bring us snacks?

ERIDAN: -rolls in here as if he was the one who got called, except he has no idea what's going on-

REDGLARE: ...1f th4t's how you conduct m33t1ngs, go 4h34d.

FEFERI: It's more like a concerned discussion rig)(t?? -Also.- )(i -Eridan! -waves at him-

ERIDAN: -looks over at feferi and redglare. HUH. are they friends???? he can't remember. he gives them a curt nod before getting some FISH to eat first before joining them-

REDGLARE: -she glances over at Eridan, nods-

FEFERI: Coming out for a snack too? -eyes that fish... eyes it.-

ERIDAN: not a snack its my goddamned lunch ERIDAN: -sets plate in front of himself and starts munching-

[gulescamisade]

TEREZI: -Well, after the first time she 'visited' 3ridan, she's kind of felt guilty about literally dumping all that information on him. So here she was knocking at his door for round two.-

ERIDAN: *he was dozing, having one of his off days, when he heard the knock at the door. He lifts his head slightly and glances over to it* come in

TEREZI: -Here she comes! Quietly. Holding the door so it didn't slam, she then walked over to his bedside and dumped a care package onto the table. There are varied hues of violet daisies (made of glass; she can't bear gifting anyone something that is going to die just yet), the book "4lternian Conquests and Civil Wars Before the Reign of Her 1mperious Condescension," some fuzzy fish slippers (the feet holes are the mouth; though she heard he can't really feel anything waist down, body parts still get cold), and a couple of scented vials for aromatherapy. She spent all day alchemizing this since she clearly had nothing better to do with her time.-

TEREZI: -pulling out her whiteboard again, she wrote "sorry" and underlined it three times.-

ERIDAN: *blinks several times as he looks over the care package. Okay, why does everyone keep doing shit he doesn't expect? And NICE shit at that.* fuck wwhats all this for *starts with setting up the daisies to sit on his side table immediately, as well as the scented vials*

TEREZI: -Writes: "short answer: because"-

ERIDAN: wwell shit

ERIDAN: i really fuckin appreciate alla this honest

ERIDAN: *he's just going to slip the slippers on his hands for now since he can't even really sit up to put them on his feet*

TEREZI: -she taps "sorry" again. and oh, she did feel sorry. Not just with the severed heads, but with everything from before. She should have taken his word from the start. He was right. He'd been right since they were branded traitors. This crew couldn't afford mercy. Her hand drops as she watched him, and she couldn't help but feel the tug of a smile. When had he ever done something goofy like that in her presence? Or if he had, was this the first time she noticed it?-

TEREZI: -gives him a thumbs up-

TEREZI: -he looks baller-

ERIDAN: *puffs his chest smugly, although he's not entirely sure why that was his reaction to her thumbs upping him for his fashion disaster*

TEREZI: -Well now at that air passed through her nose as her mouth twisted from trying to prevent herself from laughing. 4t least his hands are warm. She settled into the chair these rooms always provided at the beside and watched him. He seemed...happier? Was that even a status 3ridan allowed himself to show in public? Maybe not happier but...to her he seemed like he could carry it all better now. Despite everything.-

ERIDAN: *it was definitely easier for him to act happy. It really was nice having less worries piling on his shoulders...* so is this a vvoww a silence or did you wwreck your fuckin vvocal chords

TEREZI: -she winced and held up one finger. The first one.-

ERIDAN: wwhy

TEREZI: -She stared at him for one long hard moment, her face tensing as she remembered. 1f she'd just shut the fuck up about taking prisoners and interrogating them and keeping them alive, then maybe 3ridan wouldn't have bled concord grapes all over the floor. 1f she'd shut the fuck up about staying kind to show the universe their true intentions..that they were innocent and could prove it through their actions, then maybe Karkat would still be alive. She put her face in her hands and curled her fingers, leaving scratches on her forehead.-

ERIDAN: uh okay stare if you gotta but can you stare at not me

TEREZI: -she pressed her face into her hands further in response, hating that this was where her choices had brought her. She was such a goddamn idiot to think there could be righteousness and justice out here. That had been stripped from all members of this crew sweeps before they'd known it. War was lawless. 1t was unfair. 1t played dirty. They should have too, if they had wanted to live. She was such a fool. She knew it NOW, of course. 4nd that knowledge came too late.-

ERIDAN: wwell that wworks i suppose *kinda tilts his head, his brows knitting*

TEREZI: -She'd stood in the rubble of her beliefs before: that if one tried hard enough and stood tall against injustice that there would be people who would listen. Her teammates listened, and so did others. 4nd those others decided they should die for trying. 1n a way, this fall was worse. 1t left her utterly unscathed. 4nd here she stood in the rubble of what she thought was the right thing to do.-

TEREZI: -She made a hissing sound and what almost sounded like the first half of "sorry" came out whispered and soft, either cut off by her or the hitching in her throat.-

ERIDAN: i didnt fuckin catch that youre gunna havve to try again *narrows his eyes slightly*

TEREZI: -She stopped there. Words were meaningless here. 1t wouldn't bring Karkat back, it wouldn't help 3ridan regain the use of his legs, it wouldn't save the lives of everyone they had already lost. 1t didn't matter how sorry she was; it wouldn't save any of them now.-

TEREZI: -Her tears were pointless. 4s pointless as her apology. But they came anyway and she turned away from 3ridan, curling her arms over her head as tears kept coming even while she told herself to G3T 4 GR1P.-

ERIDAN: wwait wwhat are you doin noww are you cryin

TEREZI: -Yes, she is now crying, and a small whimper is proof of that. Rather than the hot, burning, stinging kind she had shed within the past someodd weeks, these were cold and bitter and empty. She was utterly overwhelmed, emotionally spent, and feeling pieces of her die all over again.-

TEREZI: -But she soon leveled out her breathing, shoving those broken pieces of her deep down into a place where things didn't hurt. Soon she was wiping her face with her sleeve and erasing all evidence of her breakdown. When she could bear to face 3ridan again, Terezi's face was devoid of any moisture or teal. 1t looked tired. Tired and drained and done.-

ERIDAN: you knoww wwhat youre doin isnt gunna fuckin wwork right *frowns*

ERIDAN: kar wwas my quad too an you dont see me goin mute ovver his dead carcass

ERIDAN: i highly doubt hed evven wwant that anywway

TEREZI: -she stared at him flatly, then without looking away, she scribbled a few things on the whiteboard before turning it around.-

TEREZI: -"words are dangerous"-

ERIDAN: bull fuckin shit

TEREZI: -"are too"-

ERIDAN: do you honestly believve anythin youvve said caused any a this cuz i nevver saww you goin up to the enemy an provvokin this

TEREZI: -"suggestions"-

TEREZI: -"words hold weight"-

TEREZI: -"they can make people die without lifting a finger"-

TEREZI: -"you know this"-

ERIDAN: *glares at her* i dont need wwords to murder an youvve done zero murderin wwith your owwn i dont fuckin get this

ERIDAN: youre bein wweak

TEREZI: -"sure"-

TEREZI: -"but until i know i wont"-

TEREZI: -Terezi bit her lip, pressing her forehead into the edge of the whiteboard-

TEREZI: -"hurt anyone with them"-

TEREZI: -"my flap stays trapped"-

TEREZI: -squeezes her lips together with her fingers so they're smushed flat-

ERIDAN: thats fuckin stupid an if kar comes back hes just gunna tell you the same goddamend thing

ERIDAN: be stubborn all you wwant but dont be a fuckin idiot

TEREZI: -"i wont be anymore"-

TEREZI: -"no hesitation this time"-

TEREZI: -"crew comes first"-

TEREZI: -"they always should have"-

ERIDAN: you need wwords to do that an its kinda counter productivve wwhen youre writin em dowwn anywway your wwords are still gettin out there

ERIDAN: youre just not sayin em out loud

ERIDAN: so if youre tryin to avvoid tragedy you might as wwell not evven do that

ERIDAN: i say dont fuckin bother

ERIDAN: speak the fuck up

TEREZI: -"you dont hear the tone"-

TEREZI: -"there is no emotion this way"-

TEREZI: -"and theyre easier to erase"-

TEREZI: -and with that she clears the filled board with her sleeve-

ERIDAN: yeah fuckin right theres emotion spurtin all ovver the place wwith howw youre behavvin

ERIDAN: no one goes emotionless unless they got an emotional reason to

ERIDAN: an besides showwin youvve got emotions is the mark of a good leader or so ivve read

TEREZI: -her face softened and she smiled.-

TEREZI: -"thanks for saying so but once was enough for me"-

ERIDAN: you didnt evven hear wwhat i just said did you

ERIDAN: if once wwas enough yould still be talkin

TEREZI: -"once was enough when i lost more than just my eyes"-

TEREZI: -"i may have been indirectly responsible now, but then?"-

TEREZI: -"they died like meat, but at least their murderers gave us the opportunity to fight back"-

ERIDAN: youre bein a goddamned idiot *scowls*

TEREZI: -"ok then"-

TEREZI: -"what would you have done?"-

ERIDAN: not this fuckin fake mute thing youre playin thats for fuckin sure cuz again if its really your wwords causin harm you shouldnt evven be wwritin this shit on a board an i dont get wwhats so fuckin hard to understand wwhy this pity party youre throwwin is fuckin stupid

ERIDAN: if youre gunna do it you gotta commit an go the full wway

TEREZI: -poof there it goes, back in her sylladex. She slowly leaned back in her chair and pulled her legs up to cross them, folding her hands over her ankles.-

ERIDAN: lets see howw long you can keep that up *crosses his arms and stares at her*

TEREZI: -she doesnt move except for the small motion of lightly pressing her lips together.-

ERIDAN: *narrows his eyes* an if i suddenly started convvulsin you wwouldnt be able to say a goddamned wword because youvve taken a vvoww a silence because wwords kill

TEREZI: -Terezi eyed him, then slowly moved one hand to open the drawer of the bedside table before quickly slamming it shut a couple times. She also picked up the nurse call cord and waggled it around.-

ERIDAN: theyre gunna try askin you wwhat you wwitnessed though you do fuckin realize that

ERIDAN: an youll havve to givve a report

ERIDAN: in fact

ERIDAN: youre our communications officer

ERIDAN: youre not doin your goddamned job

TEREZI: -ironic that bit-

TEREZI: -she frowned when he said that. Terezi had always wondered why TUMUT had even hired her when she was fresh out of schooling with barely any experience as it was. 4nd after finding out they were space criminals, her view of her usefulness on the bridge had met a serious downturn. That, and Jade had taken over on occasion, so...it was really disheartening that her fears were somewhat true and not unfounded.-

TEREZI: -but the one thing she'd prided herself in was her work, and Terezi planned for that. She was going to rattle off things by their code numbers; that was going to be the only time anyone would hear her voice. On the bridge. Doing her job. Which her seven sweep old self would have found to be a waste of her talent as well as a demotion. But the ego of her eleven sweep old self had significantly dissipated in the course of half a decade.-

ERIDAN: you knoww im right an im pretty fuckin sure you knoww this wwhole entire things pointless that youre doin

TEREZI: -She still kept quiet despite what he said and let go of the knob of the drawer, albeit hesitantly and she placed the hand back over her ankle.-

ERIDAN: howw long are you plannin on evven keepin this up

TEREZI: -4s long as it took, really. 4s long as it took for her to feel she wasn't spouting poison. 4s long as it took for her stop hating the sound of her own voice. She shrugged one shoulder.-

ERIDAN: wwhats that supposed to mean

TEREZI: -She looked at him, or past him… to some distant future they would eventually be where everything was uncertain. 4nd then her gaze fell down to her hands that she was sure had done more harm in the course of her life than good. She sighed, but it came out ragged and uneven. She couldn’t say any of this without an explanation of some kind, so Terezi simply shrugged her shoulders again, the movement smaller this time and drooping after they had moved.-

ERIDAN: *he just observes her now, his brow furrowed. He really wished there was anything he could say to show her how stupid she was being, but in the end, he knew it wasn't really his place. He's not any of her quadrants, and they certainly weren't close... it just seemed so selfish to him now that he was opening his own mind to the world outside of what was immediately in front of him. He sighs and rubs his temples* youre dismissed if you wwanna be seein as youre not gunna listen to reason like alwways

TEREZI: -Her head lifted and she was suddenly on her feet, feeling a flash of anger surge in her as her brows furrowed. She wanted to fire back, "what if it was roxy who died? and what if it was your fault?" and her lips curled into what was the start of a snarl.-

TEREZI: -but....something in her took away the tension in her shoulders, the anger in her face. The fight drained from her heart and she let him say it, the words sinking in as her hands slowly unclenched. He was right. She knew that. He'd been right about almost everything, and Terezi hadn't listened.-

TEREZI: -Perhaps it was high time she did. She only looked sad now, but that too drifted into something impassive as she lifted her head and saluted him. She nodded slower this time rather than her customary curt one, her gaze locked on the floor.-

ERIDAN: *expression softens when she salutes him, and lets out a small sigh* ill see you later or somethin

TEREZI: -She forced a closed-lipped smile, and nodded once. Jerking her head towards the things she brought him like "hope you enjoy those," she paused briefly before turning heel and quickly leaving. On her way out, she gave one single wave then closed the door behind her.-

ERIDAN: *HE REALLY WILL ENJOY THEM. as soon as he can the slippers are going on his feet*

[taskforcetumut]

ATRIUM SECURITY RECORDING 0353

DIRK: -HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY. Dirk is here in the cafeteria, assembling a Mother's Day lunch for his own MOM.-

RILEY: -she is here for the Mother's Day lunch. ITS A WEIRD CONCEPT BEING A MOM FOR MOTHERS DAY, but here she is, nonetheless, letting Dirk do his thing because there's really no talking him out of it-

DIRK: -returns to the table and sets the plate down for her- Here you go. Strider style feast. -it's probably loaded nachos honestly.-

RILEY: -Perfect. This is fine cuisine in her eyes anyway. She's ready to eat and it's so nice to eat outside of her room- thanks, baby. looks fucking amazing.

DIRK: -sparkles and sits down next to her- No problem. DIRK: So... How are you enjoying the ship? Now that you can actually enjoy it.

RILEY: -takes a bite of these NACHOS- it's a lot bigger than i remembered. which is probably why i've been getting lost every time i leave the room.

DIRK: Do you need a map? I can install one onto your comm.

RILEY: does it include a gps because i am freakishly direction disoriented.

DIRK: Of course. -already holding his hand out for it-

JAKE: -trots into atrium like nobody's business while Porthos the robot puppy is tagging at his heels. BORK.- Aloha strider fam! -It's time for BREAKFAST.-

RILEY: -passes communicator to Dirk when Jake walks by and she greets him with a smile- hey, jake! fuck, is that a robot dog?

DIRK: It's Porthos. -fusses with the device-

JAKE: Ah yes! This is- Okay well. He is a very well behaved thank you! -Just as he speaks, Porthos goes for Dirk's shoelaces.-

PORTHOS: -nipping at shoes-

DIRK: ! DIRK: NO.

DIRK: -jerks away-

PORTHOS: >:O -BORK BOOF. He is so small Dirk and stumbles as he jerks away. His tail wags anyway.- JAKE: -is off getting himself a loaded breakfast plate.-

RILEY: -can't help but giggle at robot dog- that's so cool! who made that?

DIRK: Jake did. Dunno why he had to program him to always go for my shoes, though.

ROXY: =Beep beep= BEEP BEEP =wow that took a lot of energy actually. She was still tired but hey. Progress. Here comes fish on wheels=

ERIDAN: -HERE COMES THE FISH ON WHEELS-

PORTHOS: BARK!!!! -chasing Roxy and Eridan. His sensors smell cat.-

ERIDAN: the FUCK -WHY-

PORTHOS: -sniffing up Roxy and Eridan and logging their scent. Mostly their shoes. Theyre not nearly as fine quality as Dirk's so he doesn't chew them.-

RILEY: -fuck!!!! It's the fish guy. Slides under the table stealthily-

ERIDAN: -WOW, EXCUSE YOU???????????-

ROXY: =A POOCH. A ROBO POOCH, she stops she's gonna hug the fuck out of this dog with her barms= !!!

ERIDAN: -his shoes are VERY fine quality-

PORTHOS: -he wiggle and vibrates at the hug. Maybe piddles some oil a little. This is very exciting.-

ROXY: what a cutie snoot =lifts the pup seeing the oil her bfg has done worse piddles= awww he aint even ship trained yet

ERIDAN: fuckin gross

JAKE: -returns with a breakfast burrito in tow, munching.- Whos not ship trained? JAKE: -eyes the oil- Baaah porthos. Havent we been working on this???

JAKE: -throws his hands up anyway- Erijam! Youre home free of the infirmary!!!

JAKE: How are you feeling???

RILEY: -u can't see me my time is now-

DIRK: ... -looks down at his mom. There she goes.-

RILEY: -DONT LOOK AT ME YOULL GIVE IT AWAY- RILEY: -don't make me go back there ugh-

ERIDAN: -HE DONT EVEN CARE ABOUT RILEY RIGHT NOW- i dunno im feelin ERIDAN: -trying to keep himself from sliding around and sitting weirdly in t he chair due to not being able to feel much DOWN THERE*

RILEY: -u never know with trolls-

DIRK: (Mom, I think it's ok.)

RILEY: (when you say think how sure are you?)

JAKE: -doesn't notice the awkward way he's sitting and just beams at him.- Well damn if you dont look fresh! JAKE: And trot rox? How are you? -shuffling closer to her and looms, eyeing her with a crinkly eyed grin. He see you.-

DIRK: (Like 84% sure.)

RILEY: -sighs and slides back up- because of how specific that percentage was, i have no choice but to trust you.

DIRK: I'll take care of it if things go south. DIRK: ... For real this time.

ERIDAN: -blinks at riley before glancing at dirk, BUT DOESNT SAY ANYTHING-

RILEY: unless you go down with me.

RILEY: -SPOTTED-

DIRK: -looks back at Eridan- ... -sweats- DIRK: -peers over shades... WINKS????-

ERIDAN: -WHAT???????? flushes at the wink and looks up at roxy like DID U JUST SEE THAT????-

RILEY: -carefully eating nachos-

DIRK: -AHA the distraction ruse worked-

RILEY: -YES-(edited)

ROXY: =WHAT? Sorry she spaced out= oh im alright

JAKE: As opposed to all lefts? -nudges her like ey eyyyyyyyy?-

ERIDAN: .... -stares hard at jake-

DIRK: -babe plz-

JAKE: -hes trying to get her to smile, okay. Even at the cost of his own dorkiness!-

RILEY: -that girl looks weirdly like Roxanne-

DIRK: -dat me best friend-

ROXY: =snrks for jakes efforts. He's a good bean= whats all this up in here? =LIKE IT WASNT OBVIOUS but conversation=

JAKE: You know. I dont actually know? -Why IS everyone out and about?-

ROXY: =oh that makes sense= its a holiday celebrated on a buncha different days on earth but basically praising all the moms =pythia is likely on her back here also. Family outting=

DIRK: -watching his mom eat nachos-

DIRK:                        

JAKE: Ahhh.... -frowns and then just- HOLY CHEESE AND POTATOES. IS IT MOTHERS DAY???????????? -appalled-

DIRK: ... -Jake plz-

PYTHIA: -SHE SHORE IS, clinging like a precious child- ERIDAN: yeah somethin like that

RILEY: -snorts at jake's yelling- yeah, i guess so! -glances at Roxy and Pythia- she yours?

JAKE: -just standing there like an idiot. How does one even CELEBRATE mother's day??-

ROXY: yeah but its not over yet u still got time

ROXY: =sniles at riley a little= yeah she is her names pythia

DIRK: -give gma nachos obviously-

JAKE: -You cant give grandmas nachos! What about her frail old gums?-

DIRK: Isn't she cute?

RILEY: -NACHOS ARE A PERFECT WAY TO CELEBRATE. She grins at Roxy- she's gorgeous. -seriously the prettiest baby troll she's ever seen though- happy mothers day.

PYTHIA: :3 -chirpglubs. She knows she's pretty- ERIDAN: -hes PROUD OF THIS GRUB he had no part in creating-

ROXY: =shes very proud and smiles more reaching for pythia to come sit down with the gang while pushing eridan= happy mothers day 2 you too

RILEY: -wow she hasn't heard that in over 20 years. WEIRD- thanks.

JAKE: -still feels wrought with guilt for forgetting a holiday he never really celebrated before and draaags himself to sit at the table.- :(

ERIDAN: wwhats your fuckin damage

JAKE: -Sir are you talking to Jake.-

JOHN: -comes in wearing his Sunday best, tie and fixed collar and all.-

ERIDAN: -oh hai john-

DIRK: -looks at Jake in a way that says may I offer you a nacho my love-

JOHN: -friendly chatter- hey guys!

JAKE: Ahoy mister john bomb! -waving. He does not notice the nacho offer.-

JOHN: -plops down with his mates.-

DIRK: -wtf-

DIRK: Hey John. Have you met my mom?

JOHN: nope i have only heard of her in legend!

RILEY: -it me- hi. john, i'm guessing your name is?

JOHN: hey dave and dirks mom! im super jazzed to meet you. -goes in for excited hand shake.-

-TAILWAG-

DIRK: John is one of our doctors, as well as my neighbor and good buddy.

JOHN: -preens.-

JOHN: -I AM A GOOD BUDDY!-

ERIDAN: johns MY doctor

ERIDAN: -eyes everyone-

JOHN: -ERIDAN CALLED ME HIS DOCTOR.-

DIRK: -don't make me wink at you again-

JOHN: -sparkling-

RILEY: -extends hand to shake his, grinning- call me riley. i'm equally jazzed to meet you too. -listens to dirk's intro- ooh you grabbed a personal doctor gig, huh? awesome.

JOHN: -proudly puffs chest.- yup! that's definitely what happened!

RILEY: nice. you gotta be a good one. -it's good news that a doctor is living next to Dirk. Just in case-

DIRK: -mother please-

JAKE: -munching burrito, glancing between all these friends at once.-(edited)

ERIDAN: -he wants a food- -stares at jake's burrito-

DIRK: -pokes obnoxiously at Jake-

JAKE: Wh- -keep your hands to YOURSELF. Punches his hand out of the way.-

RILEY: -why are Dirk and Jake so cute it's not fair-

JAKE: -And now Eridan is staring at him. Why.-

DIRK: (Ouch.)

JOHN: -keeps futzing with his collar and probably messing it up more. mmmm >8/-(edited)

DIRK: -looks at Eridan ogling the burrito- Are you hungry?

ERIDAN: yeah a little *mumbles- john wwasnt lettin me eat nothin but garbage

JOHN: -owlturns at Eridan. no burrites you destroy ur tum.-

DIRK: -looks back at John-

RILEY: -these nachos are endless and it's a miracle-

JOHN: oh come on, its not garbage its just stuff that's easy on your stomach.

BRO: - there is a mysterious BLUR and Riley will suddenly find a pink smuppet replacing her endless nachos. The smuppet has a ribbon that says HAPPY MOTHERS DAY on it-

JOHN: you could have pancakes-(edited)

JAKE: -CHOKES. THAT'S A PENIS.-

ERIDAN: -.....................-

DIRK: -DEREK!!!!! Jk he loves smuppets-

JAKE: -Wheeze!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!-

RILEY: ...these fucking puppets.

JOHN: -DIRK YOUR DAD IS SO WEIRD!-

BRO: -flash steps again to return the nachos-

RILEY: why did you have to- thanks.

BRO: -but he definitely ate some-

RILEY: better watch out because i will hunt you DOWN. -for these nachos-

BRO: -Rihanna winking in the bg-

ERIDAN: fuckin interuptin john blessin me wwith pancakes wwhat a goddamned jerk

DIRK: Yeah he is.

JOHN: pancakes! I'll go get em. -eager to get away from adult strider weirdness.-(edited)

JOHN: -also his shirt isn't tucked in all the way dangit.-

RILEY: -okay at least it's pink and not AS hideous as the other ones but it's still hideous-

JOHN: -trots off, still messing with it.-

JAKE: -doing his best not to oogle the smuppet. How inappropriate... He hopes his grandma never sees one.-

GRANDMA: -WALKS IN- :)

ERIDAN: -WATCHES JOHN GO before glancing over at grandma-

GRANDMA: hi everybody!

JAKE: -N O.-

JOHN: -comes back with pancakes and bananas because they're good for you dammit. there's grandma now where dad...-

RILEY: -oh. more people. and a good looking older lady. she quickly puts away this goddamn smuppet because this will NOT be part of the first impression she gives-

JAKE: -he could pass out from relief. thank you, Riley.-

JOHN: -places plate before eridan-

JOHN: -he sit-

JAKE: Hello grandma! -rising up to give her a BIG HUG, hopefully she saw NOTHING.-

ERIDAN: oh thanks -DELICIOUS PANCAKES- -time to dig in-

GRANDMA: -SQUEEZES him back- hi jake!! how is everybody doing today?

JAKE: Fantastic! Or at least i thought so anyway. -he looks guilty- I am very apologetic to say i had no idea today was mothers day. :(

JOHN: -aww-.

RILEY: okay but to be fair neither did i. until this guy. -points at dirk-

GRANDMA: huh?? it's mother's day??

GRANDMA: :o

GRANDMA: then you must be dirk's mom!

JOHN: -AWWWW.-

JOHN: -his friends and their families.... Its so cute.-

GRANDMA: -ur my family too... She smile at John-

JAKE: Hehe. -well if grandma forgot, then it's not so bad.- :)

RILEY: -there is something oddly affirming about being pointed out as dirk's mom without having to say so first. she nods proudly- yeah. he's mine. i'm riley.

JOHN: -8) -he also doesn't really remember how they're supposed to be related BUT STILL CUTE.-

GRANDMA: i'm jolene! it's so nice to finally meet you.

RILEY: oh yeah! -she recalls a conversation she had with derek and davenforth and this jungle lady AND OH THAT'S WHO SHE IS. her smile widens- nice to meet you too. i've heard nothing but good things.

JAKE: -hovering by Grandma E.-

GRANDMA: hehe aww... i could say the same! i just wish i'd heard more. -smiles up at Jake but then slides into a seat at the table-

JAKE: -pulls out chair for Grandma to sit in.-

DIRK: -pushes Eridan's plate around just a little bit to annoy him-

GRANDMA: thank you, jake!!

ERIDAN: -EYES DIRK- the hell are you doin

DIRK: Nothing.

ERIDAN: -sQUINT-

JOHN: -maybe shifts eridans plate a little too while dirk distracts him.-

DIRK: -;)-

JOHN: -INNOCENT POSE.-

ERIDAN: ...............................

JAKE: -fiddles with his hands. gosh he wished he had a gift to give Grandma...- Ah... JAKE: Grandma?

GRANDMA: yes, jake? :o

JAKE: -This is embarrassing! And Jake isn't really one to draw attention to himself this way but. It's a special occasion! He squares up his shoulders, ulimately deciding to bite the bullet. Everyone witness him.- JAKE: Its no gift suitable for mothers day or anything such but! JAKE: I think you should know that dirk sollux and i... are committing to one another. We are engaged! -lets that sink in for a second, standing there sweatily.- JAKE: ... -Oh yeah. He shows her the gold banded, three colored ring on his hand.-

JOHN: -big eyes OMG!-

ERIDAN: -chokes on pancake-

JOHN: -VIBRATES AND WHIRLS AROUND AT ERIDIRK LIKE :D-

DIRK: -OH SHIT THAT JUST HAPPENED. He looks very flustered, but mostly because that announcement was directed at granny...- GRANDMA: -stares at Jake with wide eyes before looking at the ringed hand offered in her direction. She takes his hand, a big smile spreading across her face.- oh wow...! jake, that's so wonderful i...! -sniffle- i'm so happy for you!! :') GRANDMA: -looks at Dirk- and you too! congratulations!! -more sniffs while she squeezes Jake's hand.-

JAKE: -How adorable! He just squeezes her hands back, getting a little sniffly hiimself.- 8'O

GRANDMA: -admires the ring a little more before she pulls Jake into a hug-

JOHN: -AHH they're all so good...good family... he loves them. he also slaps dirk on the back and squeezes his shoulder- congratumolations, buddy!

DIRK: -tiny wheeze- Thanks.

ERIDAN: -COUGH COUGH CHOKE-

DIRK: ...

JOHN: -is he really choking-

DIRK: Eridan??

JOHN: -OWLTURNS-

ERIDAN: -COUGH COUGH COUGH HACK pancake piece gets coughed up-

JAKE: ...Holy smokes.

JOHN: -rubs his back- jesus!

DIRK: Uh... You ok?

ERIDAN: -squints- yes

ERIDAN: -...... quietly nibbles pancake now-

JOHN: -keeps patting him restlessly. PLEASE BE CAREFUL FRIENDS.-

DIRK: ... Ok.

DIRK: -anxiously playing with his own ring now. His new favorite thing to play with when he's feeling nervous.-

JOHN: -waits patiently for eridan to congratulate dirksoljake....???-

JAKE: -just keeping eyes on grandma, all big smiles and hand squeezes.-

ERIDAN: -keeps just BUSYING himself with these pancakes, not saying a word-

ERIDAN: - did JAKE SAY SOMETHING, HE DIDN'T HEAR ANYTHING-

JOHN: -HMM. this is awkward. and poor Dirk is twitching.-

GRANDMA: hehe... seeing you so happy really is the best gift i could even ask for. -starry eyed up at him- DIRK: -deflating the longer Eridan goes without saying anything-

JAKE: Golly what else can i say? -bashful laughing- We sure dont know what the future holds so why the blazes not the three of us?? -Glances hopefully towards Dirk like :D? Is he doing a good thing?-

DIRK: -snorts a little at that goofy smile, but he still seems pretty bummed-

JOHN: -smushed between these best friends like 8(-(edited)

JOHN: -but outwardly he's 8)-

GRANDMA: -why Dirk look like that- that's a great philosophy!

ERIDAN: -fins are starting to DROOP. he's done with his pancakes and is ready to leave-

JAKE: -leaning down to smooch grandma right on the head and envelope her in a big hug. He sniffles, having no idea whats going on with the others.-

GRANDMA: ! -doh Jake is SO CUTE- hehehe!

DIRK: Hey, I'm gonna... Brb? -gets up and ABSCONDS-

JAKE: -gesturing for Dirk??? Get in on this hu- Oh.-

JAKE: -standing there like...- Uh.

GRANDMA: ...

JOHN: -:-

ERIDAN: -WHEELS OFF-

JOHN: -he sees you, wheeling off.-

JAKE: ........... -shuffling his hands. Um. Okay. Kind of looks at John like help what happened??-

JOHN: uh! -WELL...WHAT...DO...-

JOHN: -stands up and gives Jake a firm hug- i'm really happy for you, dude. of course I already knew but ...shhh

JAKE: Oh ah. Sure. -Thank goodness for John. He was about to panic.-

JOHN: -rapid back patting- :D

JAKE: -big old watery eyes on him. Thank...-

JOHN: -as he finishes his pats he moves over to sit by Jake since everyone split.-

JAKE: -Guh, well. Since it's quiet all of a sudden, he's gonna focus on eating the rest of his cold burrito.-

JAKE: :(

JOHN: -just keeps him company and waits for his dad :-

GRANDMA: -PROBABLY BABBLING ABOUT SOMETHING-

DIRK: -sneaks back in and hovers over Jake and grandma- Hey.

JAKE: Mrrphph. -he's eating.-

RILEY: -she was absent for a second but now she has returned!!!!-

RILEY: -at least Dirk is still here and mostly everyone it looks like-

JAKE: -gently stress eating-

RILEY: what did i miss?

JAKE: Nothing!

JAKE: I am almost done with my lunch here.

DIRK: -drapes arms around them and gives them both a squeeze- DIRK: Oh. DIRK: Jake just declared our engagement to everyone.

JAKE: -Mrrrrrgh. Is squeezed.-

RILEY: !!!! -eyes widen- so it's official?

JAKE: More or less! Ahem. -stands up and gathers up his garbage.-

DIRK: ...

DIRK: -more or less????-

RILEY: -she's confused. looks at Dirk-

DIRK: ... Uh. Well... -shows her the ring on his hand-

JAKE: -He could be here for that, at least. Jake is just not feeling so well.-

RILEY: OH! -she's back to looking excited- congratulations! again. but officially, congratulations!

DIRK: -manages a smile- Thanks.

JAKE: -just hovering awkwardly. Don't look at him, Grandma.-

RILEY: to both of you! ...both of you or...?

JAKE: The three of us i believe! But oh jeez. JAKE: Would you look at the time?? I entirely forgot i was in the middle of something beforehand! JAKE: Shall we continue the discussion later? -he is scooting...- Yes? Okay. JAKE: Toodles everyone! -HE ESCAPED-

RILEY: -that was really fucking weird- okay?

JOHN: -GROANS LOUDLY.-

JOHN: ....sorry. -clears throat and drinks milk.-

GRANDMA: -hmm...- oh, it's fine, i'm sure! he's always all over the place haha. DIRK: -frowning tho-

RILEY: oh, okay! as long as he's good. -son why are you frowning-

DIRK: -HES NOT OOOOKAAAAAY- Hey mom, do you wanna go for a walk?

RILEY: -looks up and over at him- yeah, sure. i ate too many nachos anyway.

DIRK: Let's walk it out then. -looks at grandma and John- We'll catch you all later, alright? GRANDMA: take care, dirk! and it was nice meeting you, riley. :)

JOHN: -nods and sits there chinhandsing.-

RILEY: -stands up with Dirk- nice meeting you too! see you all later, i'm sure.

DIRK: -scrambles off with the mom-

GRANDMA: -looks at John. SMILES.-

JOHN: -waves at her. hello jake's grandma-

GRANDMA: -waves back- hi john! how are things?

JOHN: -WELL BESIDES THE OBVIOUS AWKWARD BULLSHIT THAT JUST HAPPENED.-

JOHN: i have no complaints! how are you?

GRANDMA: -shhh...- GRANDMA: oh, about the same...! i've been focusing on my skaianet plans since we've been grounded.

JOHN: huh. has it just been you working on 'em?

JOHN: -feels kind of embarassed because he almost forgot about skaianet. DUHHHH.-

DAD: -at the mention of Skaianet, here is James. With a tray of chocolate covered strawberries for Auntie Jolene.- HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY, AUNT JOLENE.

JOHN: -perks up! hey this is somethng!-

GRANDMA: !! GRANDMA: aw, james! -smiles up at him- you shouldn't have. -she's gonna PARTAKE anyway...-

DAD: -removes his hat and also produces a dozen bright blue flowers for her.-

GRANDMA: oh my gosh!! -now she's laughing. always full of surprises, this one- you are just too sweet.

JOHN: :) -this is definitley cheering him up.-

DAD: -He is most pleased with the reaction and has ONE MORE TRICK up his sleeve. With a quick flip of his hat, it appears to turn inside out and becomes a white sun hat, complete with bow and everything. He places it delicately on her head.- THANK YOU, DEAR AUNT.

DAD: YOU LOOK RAVISHING AS ALWAYS.

JOHN: eheheh! -claps and whistles-

DAD: -from his shirt pocket, he produces a tiny framed picture of Nanna. He puts it on the table.-

DAD: JOHN AND I WERE ABOUT TO ENGAGE IN A MOTHER'S DAY DINNER IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO JOIN US.

GRANDMA: -starry eyed over her beautiful new hat, and then notices the photo. Oh... Gosh. She's getting so emotional today. More sniffs.- i'd love to.

DAD: -puts a matching blue flower in John's shirt pocket. You look spiffy today son.-

JOHN: -this is kind of weird to witness. no one's ever had mother day's dinner with them except for dead grandma photo. but it's good weird! def. good weird.-

JOHN: -straightens flower proudly- yeah? i did my best to put in some extra spiff!

DAD: EXCELLENT WORK. NANNA WOULD BE PROUD OF YOU, SON.

JOHN: -HE HAS PLEASED DEAD GRANDMA PHOTO AGAIN ON THIS DAY. dad gets a thumbs up.-

DAD: -soon, he produces a macaroni cheese casserole for the three of them to partake in. It is beautiful.-

JOHN: -heck yes it is.-

DAD: -But also green beans because vegetables are good for you.-

JOHN: -ignores grean beans for now.- wow, you made a lot of this. can i save some for ruleus, aradia and feferi?

JOHN: and ananya.

JOHN: wow, a lot.

JOHN: actually maybe i shoudl just make my own.

JOHN: ehehhehe.

DAD: YOU MAY TAKE LEFTOVERS REGARDLESS.

JOHN: -singsong voice- ss-core...!

GRANDMA: -giggles at these nerds. Gosh... She's feeling so nostalgic...- everything looks delicious, james. :)

DAD: THANK YOU, AUNT JOLENE. DAD: THE DESSERT SLATED FOR THE EVENING IS CHOCOLATE MOUSSE PIE.

JOHN: ! -HE MADE A PIE INSTEAD OF A CAKE!-

DAD: -It's the only way John would eat it.-

JOHN: -raises fork- huzzah!

JOHN: -then stabs macaroni wedge.-