Xipe, Atlas And Iris Totec

A vampire deity and his kids

[totecs-throne]

Intro~

∰I am Xipe, a vampiric demon who is worshipped as a deity. I exist. Pronouns are he/it∰

ΨI’m Atlas and I don’t wanna be here. I’m eighteen almost nineteen. I don’t care what pronouns you useΨ

♬I’m Iris and I’m twelve! She/her please!♬

I’ll add more info and appearances and stuff later but here for now.

I’m not adding an appearance for Xipe bc he has no skin

Atlas:

Iris:

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 8)

☕︎Your—☕︎

*He switches to English, accent way thicker than all of his siblings combined as he mocks*

☕︎Your title? ☕︎

*Vince switches back to Vampiric*

☕︎good to know what you say about me. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

Why would me being the worst ever have anything to do with talking about you-? I have an award for it that’s probably older than you-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko sighs*

𖢻Wonky translation. Liz stop fucking with him. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Huh??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko closes his eyes, taking a slow breath*

𖢻Yes he deserves it, but I’m not alive enough to deal with you both being petty and we all know that’s his permanent state of being. 𖢻

*Elizabeth opens and closes her hand as he talks, miming a mouth, rolling her eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*Blink blonk*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Just… stop. If you don’t, you’re having to deal with Olive and Hen alone next time. 𖢻

*Elizabeth glares at Nieko*

𖢻He didn’t screw up enough for that to apply, you shit. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…I am gonna need so much context for this later

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko points to Elizabeth, his eyes still closed*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*He then points to Vince*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*Nieko points to himself*

𖢻the one who has to deal with both of their bitching and moaning when one of them does something eldritch-horror-y. There’s your damn context𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…righhtttt.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron comes outside, and Elizabeth already looks like she’s been scolded as soon as he gets through the door. Vince seems amused*

𖢻Oh wooo number three’s here. Amazing. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just look so very confused*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Bají, Jachi, apologise to Azrael. 𖡎

*Elizabeth mumbles an apology, but Vince does not. Mitichó switches to Vampiric, speaking fast*

𖡎You will apologise for running off, you scared Kannika and Jachi and you failed to get Nieko to safety while you were out. 𖡎

☕︎He’s alive, ain’t he? ☕︎

𖡎Bají. Now. 𖡎

☕︎I ain’t apologising to that pig-for-brains, jam-spined fuckwit. ☕︎

*A few seconds pass, and Vince looks at Nieko*

☕︎Sorry for not finding you. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

*They just sit there*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó switches back to English*

𖡎Jachi decided to just barely change what Bají was hearing when you spoke, changed the meaning more than the words, even. Sorry about that. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Right…uh…changed to what-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron stares down Elizabeth and she ducks her head*

𖡎Good question. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Sorry I’m just very confused.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎You should probably get used to that. 𖡎

*Vince laughs*

[angels-maybe]

Probably. Liz, kiddo, could I know what you changed my words to?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She squeaks something that’s too quiet to make out*

[angels-maybe]

I didn’t quite catch that?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Her shoulders are almost to her ears*

[angels-maybe]

*They frown*

You’re safe, and I’m not upset with you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I won’t tell Cass, but you can’t keep doing this. 𖡎

*She hesitates but nods*

[angels-maybe]

Are we okay Liz?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods again, not even trying to speak*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry I pushed you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrugs, and Vince very tentatively starts walking over to Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer Elizabeth a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth doesn’t smile back, watching as Vince somehow ends up being thrown into the forest by Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

Holyshit-is he okay?!

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻He’s fine. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They stare at Mitichó as though he’s just murdered and eaten a baby bunny*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎What? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You threw him.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Yes..? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s just a baby you can’t do that what if he gets hurt-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen. If he got hurt, it would be his own damn fault. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But you can’t be mean to him he’s too precious

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko laughs, then quickly tries to stifle it*

[angels-maybe]

*Azrael just looks out the window to see if Vince is okay*

What if he like-died. Or scraped his knee. Or inhaled a bug-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen, if he still managed to bungle it up that badly… it’s a miracle he’s still alive. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But why would you do that

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he shrugs*

𖡎Catharsis. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You could’ve hurt him though

*they look very upset, still staring at Mitichó like he’s committed a war crime*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Do you need to take your meds? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Probably but you could’ve hurt my baby. Evil child. I still love you but evil evil child.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I had to talk him out of trying to kill you three times this week. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s still precious baby

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻threes gotta be a record low. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

What if you killed him? How am I supposed to live without him? Miti why would you do this?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron sighs*

[angels-maybe]

I’m gonna go take my meds now but then I’m gonna come back and be very dramatic about this.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They head back into the kitchen*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains with Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They dig out of the medicine cabinet and take their meds*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry about Ron and Vince… and Liz… and probably Pyro if he shows up… 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It’s all good, you kids make my life entertaining.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Entertaining’s… one word for it. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They huff a laugh*

Oh for sure, I’d be so bored without you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmm, you’d still have Purple to give you heart attacks 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

But you’re all so fun and awesome and stuff

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Weren’t you just scolding Ron for throwing Vince into the trees? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Yeah so?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko huffs, rolling his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

I can scold you guys and still think you’re awesome.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sounds fake 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Why?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He just shrugs one shoulder*

[angels-maybe]

I’m pretty sure part of parenting is loving your kids even if you’re upset with them

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Well yeah but loving is different to liking-𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Fair, but I’m pretty sure liking your kids is also part of parenting

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He rolls his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*boop*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Baffled blinking*

[angels-maybe]

Adorable

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mhm

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko stares off into space*

[angels-maybe]

You alive?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻uuunfortunately 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Do you want a snack?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…No thanks. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Pain meds?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Took some already… had liz set a timer. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Alright. If you’re hurting too bad I can take some of it.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’ll be fine… just wasn’t expecting a headache. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mkay. Cold packs sometimes help with headaches?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I know. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*It grabs a cold pack*

Where do you wanna go?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Home. 𖢻

*Its said without any time to actually be thought about*

[angels-maybe]

And where’s that, bud?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He tears up, closing his eyes and taking a shaky breath*

𖢻Nothin’ nevermind. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just hold him closer.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

There’s nothing to be sorry about

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He shakes his head*

[angels-maybe]

Hey, it’s okay to cry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻’s stupid. He’s been gone for… for so long…𖢻

[angels-maybe]

I know buddy…those feelings though, they’re always gonna be there. And there’s nothing wrong with having them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They kiss his head*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He scrubs at his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*It summons a box of tissues*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he takes a few, drying his eyes even though no tears had properly fallen*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…huh? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It sucks, to lose someone like that.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Pin needed savin’… happens… ‘sides, I got a bes’frien’ outta it 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…yeah.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmmhm… ‘m so fuckin’ tired. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Let’s get you to bed then hm?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They take Nieko back to his bed, curling up with him and rubbing his back.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He falls asleep pretty quickly, though the room is an absolute tip*

[angels-maybe]

*They look around the room but don’t touch anything*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Half of the pieces of paper have scribbles on them that are illegible, there’s somewhat-organised piles of books and binders and loose papers… but also just way over half of the floor is covered in stationary or loose paper*

[angels-maybe]

*They take a deep breath, tuck Nieko in, and leave the room*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains dead asleep*

[angels-maybe]

*It finds a spot on the couch and mumbles something about messes and tornados*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó and Vince are talking quietly, though their tones are vicious, as they come in from outside, Elizabeth trailing behind them looking equal parts annoyed and amused*

[angels-maybe]

That room. A mess. Absolute wreck.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth pales rapidly*

[angels-maybe]

*It glances up at her and softens*

Hey kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry- I was reorganising my school stuff- I’ll go fix it-❅

[angels-maybe]

No don’t worry about it. Just uh-maybe keep the door shut when it looks like that-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅The door was shut-? ❅

[angels-maybe]

Was it? I dunno my brain is screaming-nevermind it’s all good-how can you function like that-??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrinks into herself*

❅Sorry-❅

*Vince’s expression drops from the playfully-annoyed into something completely blank, moving to block Elizabeth from Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

No-no you have nothing to be sorry for. My brain being weird shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. It’s your room. Keep it how you want to.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

[☕︎I distracted her in the middle of her organising everything she needs for school. There’s probably some of my stuff mixed in, knowing Jachi, so that’s a lot. Exams are next week, so it’s necessary for the organisation to happen now since she’s been putting it off in case you did a room check. ☕︎]

[angels-maybe]

It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just gonna stay out of there for a few days.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince nods once, still looking like he’s half a second away from attacking Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer a small smile*

It’s like having double Atlas’s. I just can’t go in his room period though.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince doesn’t smile back*

𖡎I’ll warn you the next time she’s organising. We’re all usually exiled from the blast radius when she starts anyway. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Alright.

ΨI heard my name?Ψ

*Atlas peeks out of his room.*

Yeah I’m talking about you being a walking tornado.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Lizzy decided to take a page out of your book in room decoration𖡎

*Elizabeth sends Mitichó a very half-hearted glare*

[angels-maybe]

ΨOhhh. Is mom being weird about it? They called my room a pigsty-Ψ

Yeah all it’s missing is the pig

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎A little, Liz got nervous so she’s got a bodyguard now 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

ΨAh.Ψ

*Atlas makes his way over.*

ΨI guarantee you that my room is worse, I’ve learned that as long as it stays in my room this psycho won’t reorganize it.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅’s just lots of paper- made sure everyone normally in there knew- didn’t think-❅

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas kneels down*

ΨHey, I don’t think you’re in any trouble with my mom. She doesn’t look mad. And you don’t owe them shit.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She stares at Atlas in confusion*

[angels-maybe]

ΨDo you wanna see my room? Mom knows what it looks like and I’m not in trouble, and I’m sure yours isn’t nearly as messy.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas leads her to his room…which is only missing a pig. Every surface is covered in clutter, there are month old dishes sitting on the floor, and his dirty clothes have overflowed so much that you could swim in them.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince goes to follow but Mitichó stops him with just one look. Elizabeth looks torn between wonder and horror*

[totecs-throne]

ΨIf I’m not in trouble, you’re definitely not in troubleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods slowly, eyes wide*

[totecs-throne]

*He huffs a laugh*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅How can Miti even get through that ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨNo clue.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…So weird. ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨIt’s my jungleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨYou’re all good.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Thanks ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨAnything for you sisΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She wrinkles her nose*

❅You’re dating my brother. ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨYeah okayΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*nod*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 8)

☕︎Your—☕︎

*He switches to English, accent way thicker than all of his siblings combined as he mocks*

☕︎Your title? ☕︎

*Vince switches back to Vampiric*

☕︎good to know what you say about me. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

Why would me being the worst ever have anything to do with talking about you-? I have an award for it that’s probably older than you-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko sighs*

𖢻Wonky translation. Liz stop fucking with him. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Huh??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko closes his eyes, taking a slow breath*

𖢻Yes he deserves it, but I’m not alive enough to deal with you both being petty and we all know that’s his permanent state of being. 𖢻

*Elizabeth opens and closes her hand as he talks, miming a mouth, rolling her eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*Blink blonk*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Just… stop. If you don’t, you’re having to deal with Olive and Hen alone next time. 𖢻

*Elizabeth glares at Nieko*

𖢻He didn’t screw up enough for that to apply, you shit. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…I am gonna need so much context for this later

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko points to Elizabeth, his eyes still closed*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*He then points to Vince*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*Nieko points to himself*

𖢻the one who has to deal with both of their bitching and moaning when one of them does something eldritch-horror-y. There’s your damn context𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…righhtttt.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron comes outside, and Elizabeth already looks like she’s been scolded as soon as he gets through the door. Vince seems amused*

𖢻Oh wooo number three’s here. Amazing. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just look so very confused*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Bají, Jachi, apologise to Azrael. 𖡎

*Elizabeth mumbles an apology, but Vince does not. Mitichó switches to Vampiric, speaking fast*

𖡎You will apologise for running off, you scared Kannika and Jachi and you failed to get Nieko to safety while you were out. 𖡎

☕︎He’s alive, ain’t he? ☕︎

𖡎Bají. Now. 𖡎

☕︎I ain’t apologising to that pig-for-brains, jam-spined fuckwit. ☕︎

*A few seconds pass, and Vince looks at Nieko*

☕︎Sorry for not finding you. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

*They just sit there*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó switches back to English*

𖡎Jachi decided to just barely change what Bají was hearing when you spoke, changed the meaning more than the words, even. Sorry about that. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Right…uh…changed to what-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron stares down Elizabeth and she ducks her head*

𖡎Good question. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Sorry I’m just very confused.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎You should probably get used to that. 𖡎

*Vince laughs*

[angels-maybe]

Probably. Liz, kiddo, could I know what you changed my words to?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She squeaks something that’s too quiet to make out*

[angels-maybe]

I didn’t quite catch that?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Her shoulders are almost to her ears*

[angels-maybe]

*They frown*

You’re safe, and I’m not upset with you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I won’t tell Cass, but you can’t keep doing this. 𖡎

*She hesitates but nods*

[angels-maybe]

Are we okay Liz?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods again, not even trying to speak*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry I pushed you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrugs, and Vince very tentatively starts walking over to Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer Elizabeth a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth doesn’t smile back, watching as Vince somehow ends up being thrown into the forest by Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

Holyshit-is he okay?!

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻He’s fine. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They stare at Mitichó as though he’s just murdered and eaten a baby bunny*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎What? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You threw him.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Yes..? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s just a baby you can’t do that what if he gets hurt-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen. If he got hurt, it would be his own damn fault. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But you can’t be mean to him he’s too precious

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko laughs, then quickly tries to stifle it*

[angels-maybe]

*Azrael just looks out the window to see if Vince is okay*

What if he like-died. Or scraped his knee. Or inhaled a bug-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen, if he still managed to bungle it up that badly… it’s a miracle he’s still alive. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But why would you do that

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he shrugs*

𖡎Catharsis. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You could’ve hurt him though

*they look very upset, still staring at Mitichó like he’s committed a war crime*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Do you need to take your meds? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Probably but you could’ve hurt my baby. Evil child. I still love you but evil evil child.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I had to talk him out of trying to kill you three times this week. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s still precious baby

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻threes gotta be a record low. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

What if you killed him? How am I supposed to live without him? Miti why would you do this?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron sighs*

[angels-maybe]

I’m gonna go take my meds now but then I’m gonna come back and be very dramatic about this.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They head back into the kitchen*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains with Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They dig out of the medicine cabinet and take their meds*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry about Ron and Vince… and Liz… and probably Pyro if he shows up… 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It’s all good, you kids make my life entertaining.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Entertaining’s… one word for it. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They huff a laugh*

Oh for sure, I’d be so bored without you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmm, you’d still have Purple to give you heart attacks 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

But you’re all so fun and awesome and stuff

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Weren’t you just scolding Ron for throwing Vince into the trees? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Yeah so?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko huffs, rolling his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

I can scold you guys and still think you’re awesome.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sounds fake 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Why?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He just shrugs one shoulder*

[angels-maybe]

I’m pretty sure part of parenting is loving your kids even if you’re upset with them

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Well yeah but loving is different to liking-𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Fair, but I’m pretty sure liking your kids is also part of parenting

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He rolls his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*boop*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Baffled blinking*

[angels-maybe]

Adorable

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mhm

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko stares off into space*

[angels-maybe]

You alive?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻uuunfortunately 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Do you want a snack?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…No thanks. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Pain meds?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Took some already… had liz set a timer. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Alright. If you’re hurting too bad I can take some of it.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’ll be fine… just wasn’t expecting a headache. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mkay. Cold packs sometimes help with headaches?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I know. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*It grabs a cold pack*

Where do you wanna go?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Home. 𖢻

*Its said without any time to actually be thought about*

[angels-maybe]

And where’s that, bud?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He tears up, closing his eyes and taking a shaky breath*

𖢻Nothin’ nevermind. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just hold him closer.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

There’s nothing to be sorry about

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He shakes his head*

[angels-maybe]

Hey, it’s okay to cry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻’s stupid. He’s been gone for… for so long…𖢻

[angels-maybe]

I know buddy…those feelings though, they’re always gonna be there. And there’s nothing wrong with having them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They kiss his head*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He scrubs at his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*It summons a box of tissues*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he takes a few, drying his eyes even though no tears had properly fallen*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…huh? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It sucks, to lose someone like that.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Pin needed savin’… happens… ‘sides, I got a bes’frien’ outta it 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…yeah.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmmhm… ‘m so fuckin’ tired. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Let’s get you to bed then hm?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They take Nieko back to his bed, curling up with him and rubbing his back.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He falls asleep pretty quickly, though the room is an absolute tip*

[angels-maybe]

*They look around the room but don’t touch anything*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Half of the pieces of paper have scribbles on them that are illegible, there’s somewhat-organised piles of books and binders and loose papers… but also just way over half of the floor is covered in stationary or loose paper*

[angels-maybe]

*They take a deep breath, tuck Nieko in, and leave the room*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains dead asleep*

[angels-maybe]

*It finds a spot on the couch and mumbles something about messes and tornados*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó and Vince are talking quietly, though their tones are vicious, as they come in from outside, Elizabeth trailing behind them looking equal parts annoyed and amused*

[angels-maybe]

That room. A mess. Absolute wreck.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth pales rapidly*

[angels-maybe]

*It glances up at her and softens*

Hey kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry- I was reorganising my school stuff- I’ll go fix it-❅

[angels-maybe]

No don’t worry about it. Just uh-maybe keep the door shut when it looks like that-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅The door was shut-? ❅

[angels-maybe]

Was it? I dunno my brain is screaming-nevermind it’s all good-how can you function like that-??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrinks into herself*

❅Sorry-❅

*Vince’s expression drops from the playfully-annoyed into something completely blank, moving to block Elizabeth from Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

No-no you have nothing to be sorry for. My brain being weird shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. It’s your room. Keep it how you want to.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

[☕︎I distracted her in the middle of her organising everything she needs for school. There’s probably some of my stuff mixed in, knowing Jachi, so that’s a lot. Exams are next week, so it’s necessary for the organisation to happen now since she’s been putting it off in case you did a room check. ☕︎]

[angels-maybe]

It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just gonna stay out of there for a few days.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince nods once, still looking like he’s half a second away from attacking Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer a small smile*

It’s like having double Atlas’s. I just can’t go in his room period though.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince doesn’t smile back*

𖡎I’ll warn you the next time she’s organising. We’re all usually exiled from the blast radius when she starts anyway. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Alright.

ΨI heard my name?Ψ

*Atlas peeks out of his room.*

Yeah I’m talking about you being a walking tornado.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Lizzy decided to take a page out of your book in room decoration𖡎

*Elizabeth sends Mitichó a very half-hearted glare*

[angels-maybe]

ΨOhhh. Is mom being weird about it? They called my room a pigsty-Ψ

Yeah all it’s missing is the pig

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎A little, Liz got nervous so she’s got a bodyguard now 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

ΨAh.Ψ

*Atlas makes his way over.*

ΨI guarantee you that my room is worse, I’ve learned that as long as it stays in my room this psycho won’t reorganize it.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅’s just lots of paper- made sure everyone normally in there knew- didn’t think-❅

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas kneels down*

ΨHey, I don’t think you’re in any trouble with my mom. She doesn’t look mad. And you don’t owe them shit.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She stares at Atlas in confusion*

[angels-maybe]

ΨDo you wanna see my room? Mom knows what it looks like and I’m not in trouble, and I’m sure yours isn’t nearly as messy.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas leads her to his room…which is only missing a pig. Every surface is covered in clutter, there are month old dishes sitting on the floor, and his dirty clothes have overflowed so much that you could swim in them.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince goes to follow but Mitichó stops him with just one look. Elizabeth looks torn between wonder and horror*

[totecs-throne]

ΨIf I’m not in trouble, you’re definitely not in troubleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods slowly, eyes wide*

[totecs-throne]

*He huffs a laugh*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅How can Miti even get through that ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨNo clue.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…So weird. ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨIt’s my jungleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨYou’re all good.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Thanks ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨAnything for you sisΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She wrinkles her nose*

❅You’re dating my brother. ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨYeah okayΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 8)

☕︎Your—☕︎

*He switches to English, accent way thicker than all of his siblings combined as he mocks*

☕︎Your title? ☕︎

*Vince switches back to Vampiric*

☕︎good to know what you say about me. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

Why would me being the worst ever have anything to do with talking about you-? I have an award for it that’s probably older than you-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko sighs*

𖢻Wonky translation. Liz stop fucking with him. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Huh??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko closes his eyes, taking a slow breath*

𖢻Yes he deserves it, but I’m not alive enough to deal with you both being petty and we all know that’s his permanent state of being. 𖢻

*Elizabeth opens and closes her hand as he talks, miming a mouth, rolling her eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*Blink blonk*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Just… stop. If you don’t, you’re having to deal with Olive and Hen alone next time. 𖢻

*Elizabeth glares at Nieko*

𖢻He didn’t screw up enough for that to apply, you shit. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…I am gonna need so much context for this later

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko points to Elizabeth, his eyes still closed*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*He then points to Vince*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*Nieko points to himself*

𖢻the one who has to deal with both of their bitching and moaning when one of them does something eldritch-horror-y. There’s your damn context𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…righhtttt.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron comes outside, and Elizabeth already looks like she’s been scolded as soon as he gets through the door. Vince seems amused*

𖢻Oh wooo number three’s here. Amazing. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just look so very confused*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Bají, Jachi, apologise to Azrael. 𖡎

*Elizabeth mumbles an apology, but Vince does not. Mitichó switches to Vampiric, speaking fast*

𖡎You will apologise for running off, you scared Kannika and Jachi and you failed to get Nieko to safety while you were out. 𖡎

☕︎He’s alive, ain’t he? ☕︎

𖡎Bají. Now. 𖡎

☕︎I ain’t apologising to that pig-for-brains, jam-spined fuckwit. ☕︎

*A few seconds pass, and Vince looks at Nieko*

☕︎Sorry for not finding you. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

*They just sit there*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó switches back to English*

𖡎Jachi decided to just barely change what Bají was hearing when you spoke, changed the meaning more than the words, even. Sorry about that. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Right…uh…changed to what-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron stares down Elizabeth and she ducks her head*

𖡎Good question. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Sorry I’m just very confused.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎You should probably get used to that. 𖡎

*Vince laughs*

[angels-maybe]

Probably. Liz, kiddo, could I know what you changed my words to?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She squeaks something that’s too quiet to make out*

[angels-maybe]

I didn’t quite catch that?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Her shoulders are almost to her ears*

[angels-maybe]

*They frown*

You’re safe, and I’m not upset with you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I won’t tell Cass, but you can’t keep doing this. 𖡎

*She hesitates but nods*

[angels-maybe]

Are we okay Liz?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods again, not even trying to speak*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry I pushed you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrugs, and Vince very tentatively starts walking over to Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer Elizabeth a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth doesn’t smile back, watching as Vince somehow ends up being thrown into the forest by Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

Holyshit-is he okay?!

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻He’s fine. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They stare at Mitichó as though he’s just murdered and eaten a baby bunny*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎What? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You threw him.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Yes..? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s just a baby you can’t do that what if he gets hurt-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen. If he got hurt, it would be his own damn fault. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But you can’t be mean to him he’s too precious

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko laughs, then quickly tries to stifle it*

[angels-maybe]

*Azrael just looks out the window to see if Vince is okay*

What if he like-died. Or scraped his knee. Or inhaled a bug-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen, if he still managed to bungle it up that badly… it’s a miracle he’s still alive. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But why would you do that

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he shrugs*

𖡎Catharsis. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You could’ve hurt him though

*they look very upset, still staring at Mitichó like he’s committed a war crime*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Do you need to take your meds? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Probably but you could’ve hurt my baby. Evil child. I still love you but evil evil child.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I had to talk him out of trying to kill you three times this week. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s still precious baby

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻threes gotta be a record low. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

What if you killed him? How am I supposed to live without him? Miti why would you do this?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron sighs*

[angels-maybe]

I’m gonna go take my meds now but then I’m gonna come back and be very dramatic about this.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They head back into the kitchen*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains with Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They dig out of the medicine cabinet and take their meds*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry about Ron and Vince… and Liz… and probably Pyro if he shows up… 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It’s all good, you kids make my life entertaining.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Entertaining’s… one word for it. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They huff a laugh*

Oh for sure, I’d be so bored without you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmm, you’d still have Purple to give you heart attacks 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

But you’re all so fun and awesome and stuff

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Weren’t you just scolding Ron for throwing Vince into the trees? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Yeah so?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko huffs, rolling his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

I can scold you guys and still think you’re awesome.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sounds fake 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Why?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He just shrugs one shoulder*

[angels-maybe]

I’m pretty sure part of parenting is loving your kids even if you’re upset with them

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Well yeah but loving is different to liking-𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Fair, but I’m pretty sure liking your kids is also part of parenting

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He rolls his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*boop*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Baffled blinking*

[angels-maybe]

Adorable

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mhm

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko stares off into space*

[angels-maybe]

You alive?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻uuunfortunately 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Do you want a snack?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…No thanks. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Pain meds?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Took some already… had liz set a timer. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Alright. If you’re hurting too bad I can take some of it.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’ll be fine… just wasn’t expecting a headache. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mkay. Cold packs sometimes help with headaches?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I know. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*It grabs a cold pack*

Where do you wanna go?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Home. 𖢻

*Its said without any time to actually be thought about*

[angels-maybe]

And where’s that, bud?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He tears up, closing his eyes and taking a shaky breath*

𖢻Nothin’ nevermind. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just hold him closer.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

There’s nothing to be sorry about

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He shakes his head*

[angels-maybe]

Hey, it’s okay to cry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻’s stupid. He’s been gone for… for so long…𖢻

[angels-maybe]

I know buddy…those feelings though, they’re always gonna be there. And there’s nothing wrong with having them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They kiss his head*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He scrubs at his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*It summons a box of tissues*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he takes a few, drying his eyes even though no tears had properly fallen*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…huh? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It sucks, to lose someone like that.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Pin needed savin’… happens… ‘sides, I got a bes’frien’ outta it 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…yeah.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmmhm… ‘m so fuckin’ tired. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Let’s get you to bed then hm?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They take Nieko back to his bed, curling up with him and rubbing his back.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He falls asleep pretty quickly, though the room is an absolute tip*

[angels-maybe]

*They look around the room but don’t touch anything*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Half of the pieces of paper have scribbles on them that are illegible, there’s somewhat-organised piles of books and binders and loose papers… but also just way over half of the floor is covered in stationary or loose paper*

[angels-maybe]

*They take a deep breath, tuck Nieko in, and leave the room*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains dead asleep*

[angels-maybe]

*It finds a spot on the couch and mumbles something about messes and tornados*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó and Vince are talking quietly, though their tones are vicious, as they come in from outside, Elizabeth trailing behind them looking equal parts annoyed and amused*

[angels-maybe]

That room. A mess. Absolute wreck.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth pales rapidly*

[angels-maybe]

*It glances up at her and softens*

Hey kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry- I was reorganising my school stuff- I’ll go fix it-❅

[angels-maybe]

No don’t worry about it. Just uh-maybe keep the door shut when it looks like that-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅The door was shut-? ❅

[angels-maybe]

Was it? I dunno my brain is screaming-nevermind it’s all good-how can you function like that-??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrinks into herself*

❅Sorry-❅

*Vince’s expression drops from the playfully-annoyed into something completely blank, moving to block Elizabeth from Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

No-no you have nothing to be sorry for. My brain being weird shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. It’s your room. Keep it how you want to.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

[☕︎I distracted her in the middle of her organising everything she needs for school. There’s probably some of my stuff mixed in, knowing Jachi, so that’s a lot. Exams are next week, so it’s necessary for the organisation to happen now since she’s been putting it off in case you did a room check. ☕︎]

[angels-maybe]

It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just gonna stay out of there for a few days.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince nods once, still looking like he’s half a second away from attacking Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer a small smile*

It’s like having double Atlas’s. I just can’t go in his room period though.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince doesn’t smile back*

𖡎I’ll warn you the next time she’s organising. We’re all usually exiled from the blast radius when she starts anyway. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Alright.

ΨI heard my name?Ψ

*Atlas peeks out of his room.*

Yeah I’m talking about you being a walking tornado.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Lizzy decided to take a page out of your book in room decoration𖡎

*Elizabeth sends Mitichó a very half-hearted glare*

[angels-maybe]

ΨOhhh. Is mom being weird about it? They called my room a pigsty-Ψ

Yeah all it’s missing is the pig

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎A little, Liz got nervous so she’s got a bodyguard now 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

ΨAh.Ψ

*Atlas makes his way over.*

ΨI guarantee you that my room is worse, I’ve learned that as long as it stays in my room this psycho won’t reorganize it.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅’s just lots of paper- made sure everyone normally in there knew- didn’t think-❅

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas kneels down*

ΨHey, I don’t think you’re in any trouble with my mom. She doesn’t look mad. And you don’t owe them shit.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She stares at Atlas in confusion*

[angels-maybe]

ΨDo you wanna see my room? Mom knows what it looks like and I’m not in trouble, and I’m sure yours isn’t nearly as messy.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas leads her to his room…which is only missing a pig. Every surface is covered in clutter, there are month old dishes sitting on the floor, and his dirty clothes have overflowed so much that you could swim in them.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince goes to follow but Mitichó stops him with just one look. Elizabeth looks torn between wonder and horror*

[totecs-throne]

ΨIf I’m not in trouble, you’re definitely not in troubleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods slowly, eyes wide*

[totecs-throne]

*He huffs a laugh*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅How can Miti even get through that ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨNo clue.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…So weird. ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨIt’s my jungleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨYou’re all good.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Thanks ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨAnything for you sisΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 8)

☕︎Your—☕︎

*He switches to English, accent way thicker than all of his siblings combined as he mocks*

☕︎Your title? ☕︎

*Vince switches back to Vampiric*

☕︎good to know what you say about me. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

Why would me being the worst ever have anything to do with talking about you-? I have an award for it that’s probably older than you-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko sighs*

𖢻Wonky translation. Liz stop fucking with him. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Huh??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko closes his eyes, taking a slow breath*

𖢻Yes he deserves it, but I’m not alive enough to deal with you both being petty and we all know that’s his permanent state of being. 𖢻

*Elizabeth opens and closes her hand as he talks, miming a mouth, rolling her eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*Blink blonk*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Just… stop. If you don’t, you’re having to deal with Olive and Hen alone next time. 𖢻

*Elizabeth glares at Nieko*

𖢻He didn’t screw up enough for that to apply, you shit. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…I am gonna need so much context for this later

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko points to Elizabeth, his eyes still closed*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*He then points to Vince*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*Nieko points to himself*

𖢻the one who has to deal with both of their bitching and moaning when one of them does something eldritch-horror-y. There’s your damn context𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…righhtttt.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron comes outside, and Elizabeth already looks like she’s been scolded as soon as he gets through the door. Vince seems amused*

𖢻Oh wooo number three’s here. Amazing. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just look so very confused*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Bají, Jachi, apologise to Azrael. 𖡎

*Elizabeth mumbles an apology, but Vince does not. Mitichó switches to Vampiric, speaking fast*

𖡎You will apologise for running off, you scared Kannika and Jachi and you failed to get Nieko to safety while you were out. 𖡎

☕︎He’s alive, ain’t he? ☕︎

𖡎Bají. Now. 𖡎

☕︎I ain’t apologising to that pig-for-brains, jam-spined fuckwit. ☕︎

*A few seconds pass, and Vince looks at Nieko*

☕︎Sorry for not finding you. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

*They just sit there*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó switches back to English*

𖡎Jachi decided to just barely change what Bají was hearing when you spoke, changed the meaning more than the words, even. Sorry about that. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Right…uh…changed to what-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron stares down Elizabeth and she ducks her head*

𖡎Good question. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Sorry I’m just very confused.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎You should probably get used to that. 𖡎

*Vince laughs*

[angels-maybe]

Probably. Liz, kiddo, could I know what you changed my words to?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She squeaks something that’s too quiet to make out*

[angels-maybe]

I didn’t quite catch that?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Her shoulders are almost to her ears*

[angels-maybe]

*They frown*

You’re safe, and I’m not upset with you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I won’t tell Cass, but you can’t keep doing this. 𖡎

*She hesitates but nods*

[angels-maybe]

Are we okay Liz?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods again, not even trying to speak*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry I pushed you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrugs, and Vince very tentatively starts walking over to Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer Elizabeth a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth doesn’t smile back, watching as Vince somehow ends up being thrown into the forest by Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

Holyshit-is he okay?!

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻He’s fine. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They stare at Mitichó as though he’s just murdered and eaten a baby bunny*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎What? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You threw him.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Yes..? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s just a baby you can’t do that what if he gets hurt-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen. If he got hurt, it would be his own damn fault. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But you can’t be mean to him he’s too precious

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko laughs, then quickly tries to stifle it*

[angels-maybe]

*Azrael just looks out the window to see if Vince is okay*

What if he like-died. Or scraped his knee. Or inhaled a bug-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen, if he still managed to bungle it up that badly… it’s a miracle he’s still alive. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But why would you do that

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he shrugs*

𖡎Catharsis. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You could’ve hurt him though

*they look very upset, still staring at Mitichó like he’s committed a war crime*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Do you need to take your meds? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Probably but you could’ve hurt my baby. Evil child. I still love you but evil evil child.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I had to talk him out of trying to kill you three times this week. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s still precious baby

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻threes gotta be a record low. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

What if you killed him? How am I supposed to live without him? Miti why would you do this?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron sighs*

[angels-maybe]

I’m gonna go take my meds now but then I’m gonna come back and be very dramatic about this.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They head back into the kitchen*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains with Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They dig out of the medicine cabinet and take their meds*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry about Ron and Vince… and Liz… and probably Pyro if he shows up… 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It’s all good, you kids make my life entertaining.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Entertaining’s… one word for it. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They huff a laugh*

Oh for sure, I’d be so bored without you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmm, you’d still have Purple to give you heart attacks 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

But you’re all so fun and awesome and stuff

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Weren’t you just scolding Ron for throwing Vince into the trees? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Yeah so?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko huffs, rolling his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

I can scold you guys and still think you’re awesome.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sounds fake 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Why?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He just shrugs one shoulder*

[angels-maybe]

I’m pretty sure part of parenting is loving your kids even if you’re upset with them

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Well yeah but loving is different to liking-𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Fair, but I’m pretty sure liking your kids is also part of parenting

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He rolls his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*boop*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Baffled blinking*

[angels-maybe]

Adorable

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mhm

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko stares off into space*

[angels-maybe]

You alive?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻uuunfortunately 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Do you want a snack?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…No thanks. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Pain meds?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Took some already… had liz set a timer. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Alright. If you’re hurting too bad I can take some of it.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’ll be fine… just wasn’t expecting a headache. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mkay. Cold packs sometimes help with headaches?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I know. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*It grabs a cold pack*

Where do you wanna go?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Home. 𖢻

*Its said without any time to actually be thought about*

[angels-maybe]

And where’s that, bud?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He tears up, closing his eyes and taking a shaky breath*

𖢻Nothin’ nevermind. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just hold him closer.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

There’s nothing to be sorry about

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He shakes his head*

[angels-maybe]

Hey, it’s okay to cry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻’s stupid. He’s been gone for… for so long…𖢻

[angels-maybe]

I know buddy…those feelings though, they’re always gonna be there. And there’s nothing wrong with having them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They kiss his head*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He scrubs at his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*It summons a box of tissues*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he takes a few, drying his eyes even though no tears had properly fallen*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…huh? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It sucks, to lose someone like that.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Pin needed savin’… happens… ‘sides, I got a bes’frien’ outta it 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…yeah.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmmhm… ‘m so fuckin’ tired. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Let’s get you to bed then hm?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They take Nieko back to his bed, curling up with him and rubbing his back.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He falls asleep pretty quickly, though the room is an absolute tip*

[angels-maybe]

*They look around the room but don’t touch anything*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Half of the pieces of paper have scribbles on them that are illegible, there’s somewhat-organised piles of books and binders and loose papers… but also just way over half of the floor is covered in stationary or loose paper*

[angels-maybe]

*They take a deep breath, tuck Nieko in, and leave the room*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains dead asleep*

[angels-maybe]

*It finds a spot on the couch and mumbles something about messes and tornados*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó and Vince are talking quietly, though their tones are vicious, as they come in from outside, Elizabeth trailing behind them looking equal parts annoyed and amused*

[angels-maybe]

That room. A mess. Absolute wreck.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth pales rapidly*

[angels-maybe]

*It glances up at her and softens*

Hey kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry- I was reorganising my school stuff- I’ll go fix it-❅

[angels-maybe]

No don’t worry about it. Just uh-maybe keep the door shut when it looks like that-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅The door was shut-? ❅

[angels-maybe]

Was it? I dunno my brain is screaming-nevermind it’s all good-how can you function like that-??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrinks into herself*

❅Sorry-❅

*Vince’s expression drops from the playfully-annoyed into something completely blank, moving to block Elizabeth from Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

No-no you have nothing to be sorry for. My brain being weird shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. It’s your room. Keep it how you want to.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

[☕︎I distracted her in the middle of her organising everything she needs for school. There’s probably some of my stuff mixed in, knowing Jachi, so that’s a lot. Exams are next week, so it’s necessary for the organisation to happen now since she’s been putting it off in case you did a room check. ☕︎]

[angels-maybe]

It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just gonna stay out of there for a few days.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince nods once, still looking like he’s half a second away from attacking Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer a small smile*

It’s like having double Atlas’s. I just can’t go in his room period though.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince doesn’t smile back*

𖡎I’ll warn you the next time she’s organising. We’re all usually exiled from the blast radius when she starts anyway. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Alright.

ΨI heard my name?Ψ

*Atlas peeks out of his room.*

Yeah I’m talking about you being a walking tornado.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Lizzy decided to take a page out of your book in room decoration𖡎

*Elizabeth sends Mitichó a very half-hearted glare*

[angels-maybe]

ΨOhhh. Is mom being weird about it? They called my room a pigsty-Ψ

Yeah all it’s missing is the pig

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎A little, Liz got nervous so she’s got a bodyguard now 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

ΨAh.Ψ

*Atlas makes his way over.*

ΨI guarantee you that my room is worse, I’ve learned that as long as it stays in my room this psycho won’t reorganize it.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅’s just lots of paper- made sure everyone normally in there knew- didn’t think-❅

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas kneels down*

ΨHey, I don’t think you’re in any trouble with my mom. She doesn’t look mad. And you don’t owe them shit.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She stares at Atlas in confusion*

[angels-maybe]

ΨDo you wanna see my room? Mom knows what it looks like and I’m not in trouble, and I’m sure yours isn’t nearly as messy.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas leads her to his room…which is only missing a pig. Every surface is covered in clutter, there are month old dishes sitting on the floor, and his dirty clothes have overflowed so much that you could swim in them.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince goes to follow but Mitichó stops him with just one look. Elizabeth looks torn between wonder and horror*

[totecs-throne]

ΨIf I’m not in trouble, you’re definitely not in troubleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods slowly, eyes wide*

[totecs-throne]

*He huffs a laugh*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅How can Miti even get through that ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨNo clue.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…So weird. ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨIt’s my jungleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨYou’re all good.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 8)

☕︎Your—☕︎

*He switches to English, accent way thicker than all of his siblings combined as he mocks*

☕︎Your title? ☕︎

*Vince switches back to Vampiric*

☕︎good to know what you say about me. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

Why would me being the worst ever have anything to do with talking about you-? I have an award for it that’s probably older than you-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko sighs*

𖢻Wonky translation. Liz stop fucking with him. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Huh??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko closes his eyes, taking a slow breath*

𖢻Yes he deserves it, but I’m not alive enough to deal with you both being petty and we all know that’s his permanent state of being. 𖢻

*Elizabeth opens and closes her hand as he talks, miming a mouth, rolling her eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*Blink blonk*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Just… stop. If you don’t, you’re having to deal with Olive and Hen alone next time. 𖢻

*Elizabeth glares at Nieko*

𖢻He didn’t screw up enough for that to apply, you shit. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…I am gonna need so much context for this later

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko points to Elizabeth, his eyes still closed*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*He then points to Vince*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*Nieko points to himself*

𖢻the one who has to deal with both of their bitching and moaning when one of them does something eldritch-horror-y. There’s your damn context𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…righhtttt.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron comes outside, and Elizabeth already looks like she’s been scolded as soon as he gets through the door. Vince seems amused*

𖢻Oh wooo number three’s here. Amazing. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just look so very confused*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Bají, Jachi, apologise to Azrael. 𖡎

*Elizabeth mumbles an apology, but Vince does not. Mitichó switches to Vampiric, speaking fast*

𖡎You will apologise for running off, you scared Kannika and Jachi and you failed to get Nieko to safety while you were out. 𖡎

☕︎He’s alive, ain’t he? ☕︎

𖡎Bají. Now. 𖡎

☕︎I ain’t apologising to that pig-for-brains, jam-spined fuckwit. ☕︎

*A few seconds pass, and Vince looks at Nieko*

☕︎Sorry for not finding you. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

*They just sit there*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó switches back to English*

𖡎Jachi decided to just barely change what Bají was hearing when you spoke, changed the meaning more than the words, even. Sorry about that. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Right…uh…changed to what-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron stares down Elizabeth and she ducks her head*

𖡎Good question. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Sorry I’m just very confused.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎You should probably get used to that. 𖡎

*Vince laughs*

[angels-maybe]

Probably. Liz, kiddo, could I know what you changed my words to?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She squeaks something that’s too quiet to make out*

[angels-maybe]

I didn’t quite catch that?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Her shoulders are almost to her ears*

[angels-maybe]

*They frown*

You’re safe, and I’m not upset with you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I won’t tell Cass, but you can’t keep doing this. 𖡎

*She hesitates but nods*

[angels-maybe]

Are we okay Liz?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods again, not even trying to speak*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry I pushed you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrugs, and Vince very tentatively starts walking over to Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer Elizabeth a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth doesn’t smile back, watching as Vince somehow ends up being thrown into the forest by Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

Holyshit-is he okay?!

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻He’s fine. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They stare at Mitichó as though he’s just murdered and eaten a baby bunny*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎What? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You threw him.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Yes..? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s just a baby you can’t do that what if he gets hurt-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen. If he got hurt, it would be his own damn fault. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But you can’t be mean to him he’s too precious

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko laughs, then quickly tries to stifle it*

[angels-maybe]

*Azrael just looks out the window to see if Vince is okay*

What if he like-died. Or scraped his knee. Or inhaled a bug-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen, if he still managed to bungle it up that badly… it’s a miracle he’s still alive. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But why would you do that

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he shrugs*

𖡎Catharsis. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You could’ve hurt him though

*they look very upset, still staring at Mitichó like he’s committed a war crime*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Do you need to take your meds? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Probably but you could’ve hurt my baby. Evil child. I still love you but evil evil child.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I had to talk him out of trying to kill you three times this week. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s still precious baby

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻threes gotta be a record low. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

What if you killed him? How am I supposed to live without him? Miti why would you do this?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron sighs*

[angels-maybe]

I’m gonna go take my meds now but then I’m gonna come back and be very dramatic about this.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They head back into the kitchen*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains with Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They dig out of the medicine cabinet and take their meds*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry about Ron and Vince… and Liz… and probably Pyro if he shows up… 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It’s all good, you kids make my life entertaining.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Entertaining’s… one word for it. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They huff a laugh*

Oh for sure, I’d be so bored without you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmm, you’d still have Purple to give you heart attacks 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

But you’re all so fun and awesome and stuff

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Weren’t you just scolding Ron for throwing Vince into the trees? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Yeah so?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko huffs, rolling his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

I can scold you guys and still think you’re awesome.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sounds fake 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Why?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He just shrugs one shoulder*

[angels-maybe]

I’m pretty sure part of parenting is loving your kids even if you’re upset with them

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Well yeah but loving is different to liking-𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Fair, but I’m pretty sure liking your kids is also part of parenting

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He rolls his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*boop*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Baffled blinking*

[angels-maybe]

Adorable

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mhm

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko stares off into space*

[angels-maybe]

You alive?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻uuunfortunately 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Do you want a snack?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…No thanks. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Pain meds?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Took some already… had liz set a timer. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Alright. If you’re hurting too bad I can take some of it.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’ll be fine… just wasn’t expecting a headache. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mkay. Cold packs sometimes help with headaches?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I know. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*It grabs a cold pack*

Where do you wanna go?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Home. 𖢻

*Its said without any time to actually be thought about*

[angels-maybe]

And where’s that, bud?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He tears up, closing his eyes and taking a shaky breath*

𖢻Nothin’ nevermind. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just hold him closer.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

There’s nothing to be sorry about

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He shakes his head*

[angels-maybe]

Hey, it’s okay to cry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻’s stupid. He’s been gone for… for so long…𖢻

[angels-maybe]

I know buddy…those feelings though, they’re always gonna be there. And there’s nothing wrong with having them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They kiss his head*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He scrubs at his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*It summons a box of tissues*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he takes a few, drying his eyes even though no tears had properly fallen*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…huh? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It sucks, to lose someone like that.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Pin needed savin’… happens… ‘sides, I got a bes’frien’ outta it 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…yeah.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmmhm… ‘m so fuckin’ tired. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Let’s get you to bed then hm?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They take Nieko back to his bed, curling up with him and rubbing his back.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He falls asleep pretty quickly, though the room is an absolute tip*

[angels-maybe]

*They look around the room but don’t touch anything*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Half of the pieces of paper have scribbles on them that are illegible, there’s somewhat-organised piles of books and binders and loose papers… but also just way over half of the floor is covered in stationary or loose paper*

[angels-maybe]

*They take a deep breath, tuck Nieko in, and leave the room*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains dead asleep*

[angels-maybe]

*It finds a spot on the couch and mumbles something about messes and tornados*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó and Vince are talking quietly, though their tones are vicious, as they come in from outside, Elizabeth trailing behind them looking equal parts annoyed and amused*

[angels-maybe]

That room. A mess. Absolute wreck.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth pales rapidly*

[angels-maybe]

*It glances up at her and softens*

Hey kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry- I was reorganising my school stuff- I’ll go fix it-❅

[angels-maybe]

No don’t worry about it. Just uh-maybe keep the door shut when it looks like that-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅The door was shut-? ❅

[angels-maybe]

Was it? I dunno my brain is screaming-nevermind it’s all good-how can you function like that-??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrinks into herself*

❅Sorry-❅

*Vince’s expression drops from the playfully-annoyed into something completely blank, moving to block Elizabeth from Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

No-no you have nothing to be sorry for. My brain being weird shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. It’s your room. Keep it how you want to.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

[☕︎I distracted her in the middle of her organising everything she needs for school. There’s probably some of my stuff mixed in, knowing Jachi, so that’s a lot. Exams are next week, so it’s necessary for the organisation to happen now since she’s been putting it off in case you did a room check. ☕︎]

[angels-maybe]

It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just gonna stay out of there for a few days.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince nods once, still looking like he’s half a second away from attacking Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer a small smile*

It’s like having double Atlas’s. I just can’t go in his room period though.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince doesn’t smile back*

𖡎I’ll warn you the next time she’s organising. We’re all usually exiled from the blast radius when she starts anyway. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Alright.

ΨI heard my name?Ψ

*Atlas peeks out of his room.*

Yeah I’m talking about you being a walking tornado.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Lizzy decided to take a page out of your book in room decoration𖡎

*Elizabeth sends Mitichó a very half-hearted glare*

[angels-maybe]

ΨOhhh. Is mom being weird about it? They called my room a pigsty-Ψ

Yeah all it’s missing is the pig

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎A little, Liz got nervous so she’s got a bodyguard now 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

ΨAh.Ψ

*Atlas makes his way over.*

ΨI guarantee you that my room is worse, I’ve learned that as long as it stays in my room this psycho won’t reorganize it.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅’s just lots of paper- made sure everyone normally in there knew- didn’t think-❅

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas kneels down*

ΨHey, I don’t think you’re in any trouble with my mom. She doesn’t look mad. And you don’t owe them shit.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She stares at Atlas in confusion*

[angels-maybe]

ΨDo you wanna see my room? Mom knows what it looks like and I’m not in trouble, and I’m sure yours isn’t nearly as messy.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas leads her to his room…which is only missing a pig. Every surface is covered in clutter, there are month old dishes sitting on the floor, and his dirty clothes have overflowed so much that you could swim in them.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince goes to follow but Mitichó stops him with just one look. Elizabeth looks torn between wonder and horror*

[totecs-throne]

ΨIf I’m not in trouble, you’re definitely not in troubleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods slowly, eyes wide*

[totecs-throne]

*He huffs a laugh*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅How can Miti even get through that ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨNo clue.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…So weird. ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨIt’s my jungleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 8)

☕︎Your—☕︎

*He switches to English, accent way thicker than all of his siblings combined as he mocks*

☕︎Your title? ☕︎

*Vince switches back to Vampiric*

☕︎good to know what you say about me. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

Why would me being the worst ever have anything to do with talking about you-? I have an award for it that’s probably older than you-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko sighs*

𖢻Wonky translation. Liz stop fucking with him. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Huh??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko closes his eyes, taking a slow breath*

𖢻Yes he deserves it, but I’m not alive enough to deal with you both being petty and we all know that’s his permanent state of being. 𖢻

*Elizabeth opens and closes her hand as he talks, miming a mouth, rolling her eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*Blink blonk*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Just… stop. If you don’t, you’re having to deal with Olive and Hen alone next time. 𖢻

*Elizabeth glares at Nieko*

𖢻He didn’t screw up enough for that to apply, you shit. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…I am gonna need so much context for this later

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko points to Elizabeth, his eyes still closed*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*He then points to Vince*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*Nieko points to himself*

𖢻the one who has to deal with both of their bitching and moaning when one of them does something eldritch-horror-y. There’s your damn context𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…righhtttt.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron comes outside, and Elizabeth already looks like she’s been scolded as soon as he gets through the door. Vince seems amused*

𖢻Oh wooo number three’s here. Amazing. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just look so very confused*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Bají, Jachi, apologise to Azrael. 𖡎

*Elizabeth mumbles an apology, but Vince does not. Mitichó switches to Vampiric, speaking fast*

𖡎You will apologise for running off, you scared Kannika and Jachi and you failed to get Nieko to safety while you were out. 𖡎

☕︎He’s alive, ain’t he? ☕︎

𖡎Bají. Now. 𖡎

☕︎I ain’t apologising to that pig-for-brains, jam-spined fuckwit. ☕︎

*A few seconds pass, and Vince looks at Nieko*

☕︎Sorry for not finding you. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

*They just sit there*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó switches back to English*

𖡎Jachi decided to just barely change what Bají was hearing when you spoke, changed the meaning more than the words, even. Sorry about that. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Right…uh…changed to what-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron stares down Elizabeth and she ducks her head*

𖡎Good question. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Sorry I’m just very confused.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎You should probably get used to that. 𖡎

*Vince laughs*

[angels-maybe]

Probably. Liz, kiddo, could I know what you changed my words to?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She squeaks something that’s too quiet to make out*

[angels-maybe]

I didn’t quite catch that?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Her shoulders are almost to her ears*

[angels-maybe]

*They frown*

You’re safe, and I’m not upset with you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I won’t tell Cass, but you can’t keep doing this. 𖡎

*She hesitates but nods*

[angels-maybe]

Are we okay Liz?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods again, not even trying to speak*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry I pushed you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrugs, and Vince very tentatively starts walking over to Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer Elizabeth a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth doesn’t smile back, watching as Vince somehow ends up being thrown into the forest by Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

Holyshit-is he okay?!

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻He’s fine. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They stare at Mitichó as though he’s just murdered and eaten a baby bunny*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎What? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You threw him.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Yes..? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s just a baby you can’t do that what if he gets hurt-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen. If he got hurt, it would be his own damn fault. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But you can’t be mean to him he’s too precious

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko laughs, then quickly tries to stifle it*

[angels-maybe]

*Azrael just looks out the window to see if Vince is okay*

What if he like-died. Or scraped his knee. Or inhaled a bug-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen, if he still managed to bungle it up that badly… it’s a miracle he’s still alive. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But why would you do that

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he shrugs*

𖡎Catharsis. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You could’ve hurt him though

*they look very upset, still staring at Mitichó like he’s committed a war crime*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Do you need to take your meds? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Probably but you could’ve hurt my baby. Evil child. I still love you but evil evil child.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I had to talk him out of trying to kill you three times this week. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s still precious baby

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻threes gotta be a record low. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

What if you killed him? How am I supposed to live without him? Miti why would you do this?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron sighs*

[angels-maybe]

I’m gonna go take my meds now but then I’m gonna come back and be very dramatic about this.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They head back into the kitchen*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains with Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They dig out of the medicine cabinet and take their meds*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry about Ron and Vince… and Liz… and probably Pyro if he shows up… 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It’s all good, you kids make my life entertaining.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Entertaining’s… one word for it. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They huff a laugh*

Oh for sure, I’d be so bored without you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmm, you’d still have Purple to give you heart attacks 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

But you’re all so fun and awesome and stuff

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Weren’t you just scolding Ron for throwing Vince into the trees? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Yeah so?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko huffs, rolling his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

I can scold you guys and still think you’re awesome.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sounds fake 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Why?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He just shrugs one shoulder*

[angels-maybe]

I’m pretty sure part of parenting is loving your kids even if you’re upset with them

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Well yeah but loving is different to liking-𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Fair, but I’m pretty sure liking your kids is also part of parenting

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He rolls his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*boop*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Baffled blinking*

[angels-maybe]

Adorable

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mhm

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko stares off into space*

[angels-maybe]

You alive?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻uuunfortunately 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Do you want a snack?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…No thanks. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Pain meds?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Took some already… had liz set a timer. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Alright. If you’re hurting too bad I can take some of it.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’ll be fine… just wasn’t expecting a headache. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mkay. Cold packs sometimes help with headaches?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I know. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*It grabs a cold pack*

Where do you wanna go?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Home. 𖢻

*Its said without any time to actually be thought about*

[angels-maybe]

And where’s that, bud?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He tears up, closing his eyes and taking a shaky breath*

𖢻Nothin’ nevermind. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just hold him closer.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

There’s nothing to be sorry about

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He shakes his head*

[angels-maybe]

Hey, it’s okay to cry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻’s stupid. He’s been gone for… for so long…𖢻

[angels-maybe]

I know buddy…those feelings though, they’re always gonna be there. And there’s nothing wrong with having them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They kiss his head*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He scrubs at his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*It summons a box of tissues*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he takes a few, drying his eyes even though no tears had properly fallen*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…huh? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It sucks, to lose someone like that.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Pin needed savin’… happens… ‘sides, I got a bes’frien’ outta it 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…yeah.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmmhm… ‘m so fuckin’ tired. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Let’s get you to bed then hm?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They take Nieko back to his bed, curling up with him and rubbing his back.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He falls asleep pretty quickly, though the room is an absolute tip*

[angels-maybe]

*They look around the room but don’t touch anything*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Half of the pieces of paper have scribbles on them that are illegible, there’s somewhat-organised piles of books and binders and loose papers… but also just way over half of the floor is covered in stationary or loose paper*

[angels-maybe]

*They take a deep breath, tuck Nieko in, and leave the room*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains dead asleep*

[angels-maybe]

*It finds a spot on the couch and mumbles something about messes and tornados*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó and Vince are talking quietly, though their tones are vicious, as they come in from outside, Elizabeth trailing behind them looking equal parts annoyed and amused*

[angels-maybe]

That room. A mess. Absolute wreck.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth pales rapidly*

[angels-maybe]

*It glances up at her and softens*

Hey kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry- I was reorganising my school stuff- I’ll go fix it-❅

[angels-maybe]

No don’t worry about it. Just uh-maybe keep the door shut when it looks like that-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅The door was shut-? ❅

[angels-maybe]

Was it? I dunno my brain is screaming-nevermind it’s all good-how can you function like that-??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrinks into herself*

❅Sorry-❅

*Vince’s expression drops from the playfully-annoyed into something completely blank, moving to block Elizabeth from Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

No-no you have nothing to be sorry for. My brain being weird shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. It’s your room. Keep it how you want to.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

[☕︎I distracted her in the middle of her organising everything she needs for school. There’s probably some of my stuff mixed in, knowing Jachi, so that’s a lot. Exams are next week, so it’s necessary for the organisation to happen now since she’s been putting it off in case you did a room check. ☕︎]

[angels-maybe]

It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just gonna stay out of there for a few days.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince nods once, still looking like he’s half a second away from attacking Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer a small smile*

It’s like having double Atlas’s. I just can’t go in his room period though.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince doesn’t smile back*

𖡎I’ll warn you the next time she’s organising. We’re all usually exiled from the blast radius when she starts anyway. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Alright.

ΨI heard my name?Ψ

*Atlas peeks out of his room.*

Yeah I’m talking about you being a walking tornado.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Lizzy decided to take a page out of your book in room decoration𖡎

*Elizabeth sends Mitichó a very half-hearted glare*

[angels-maybe]

ΨOhhh. Is mom being weird about it? They called my room a pigsty-Ψ

Yeah all it’s missing is the pig

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎A little, Liz got nervous so she’s got a bodyguard now 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

ΨAh.Ψ

*Atlas makes his way over.*

ΨI guarantee you that my room is worse, I’ve learned that as long as it stays in my room this psycho won’t reorganize it.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅’s just lots of paper- made sure everyone normally in there knew- didn’t think-❅

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas kneels down*

ΨHey, I don’t think you’re in any trouble with my mom. She doesn’t look mad. And you don’t owe them shit.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She stares at Atlas in confusion*

[angels-maybe]

ΨDo you wanna see my room? Mom knows what it looks like and I’m not in trouble, and I’m sure yours isn’t nearly as messy.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas leads her to his room…which is only missing a pig. Every surface is covered in clutter, there are month old dishes sitting on the floor, and his dirty clothes have overflowed so much that you could swim in them.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince goes to follow but Mitichó stops him with just one look. Elizabeth looks torn between wonder and horror*

[totecs-throne]

ΨIf I’m not in trouble, you’re definitely not in troubleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods slowly, eyes wide*

[totecs-throne]

*He huffs a laugh*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅How can Miti even get through that ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨNo clue.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…So weird. ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨIt’s my jungleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 8)

☕︎Your—☕︎

*He switches to English, accent way thicker than all of his siblings combined as he mocks*

☕︎Your title? ☕︎

*Vince switches back to Vampiric*

☕︎good to know what you say about me. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

Why would me being the worst ever have anything to do with talking about you-? I have an award for it that’s probably older than you-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko sighs*

𖢻Wonky translation. Liz stop fucking with him. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Huh??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko closes his eyes, taking a slow breath*

𖢻Yes he deserves it, but I’m not alive enough to deal with you both being petty and we all know that’s his permanent state of being. 𖢻

*Elizabeth opens and closes her hand as he talks, miming a mouth, rolling her eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*Blink blonk*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Just… stop. If you don’t, you’re having to deal with Olive and Hen alone next time. 𖢻

*Elizabeth glares at Nieko*

𖢻He didn’t screw up enough for that to apply, you shit. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…I am gonna need so much context for this later

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko points to Elizabeth, his eyes still closed*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*He then points to Vince*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*Nieko points to himself*

𖢻the one who has to deal with both of their bitching and moaning when one of them does something eldritch-horror-y. There’s your damn context𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…righhtttt.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron comes outside, and Elizabeth already looks like she’s been scolded as soon as he gets through the door. Vince seems amused*

𖢻Oh wooo number three’s here. Amazing. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just look so very confused*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Bají, Jachi, apologise to Azrael. 𖡎

*Elizabeth mumbles an apology, but Vince does not. Mitichó switches to Vampiric, speaking fast*

𖡎You will apologise for running off, you scared Kannika and Jachi and you failed to get Nieko to safety while you were out. 𖡎

☕︎He’s alive, ain’t he? ☕︎

𖡎Bají. Now. 𖡎

☕︎I ain’t apologising to that pig-for-brains, jam-spined fuckwit. ☕︎

*A few seconds pass, and Vince looks at Nieko*

☕︎Sorry for not finding you. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

*They just sit there*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó switches back to English*

𖡎Jachi decided to just barely change what Bají was hearing when you spoke, changed the meaning more than the words, even. Sorry about that. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Right…uh…changed to what-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron stares down Elizabeth and she ducks her head*

𖡎Good question. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Sorry I’m just very confused.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎You should probably get used to that. 𖡎

*Vince laughs*

[angels-maybe]

Probably. Liz, kiddo, could I know what you changed my words to?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She squeaks something that’s too quiet to make out*

[angels-maybe]

I didn’t quite catch that?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Her shoulders are almost to her ears*

[angels-maybe]

*They frown*

You’re safe, and I’m not upset with you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I won’t tell Cass, but you can’t keep doing this. 𖡎

*She hesitates but nods*

[angels-maybe]

Are we okay Liz?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods again, not even trying to speak*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry I pushed you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrugs, and Vince very tentatively starts walking over to Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer Elizabeth a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth doesn’t smile back, watching as Vince somehow ends up being thrown into the forest by Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

Holyshit-is he okay?!

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻He’s fine. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They stare at Mitichó as though he’s just murdered and eaten a baby bunny*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎What? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You threw him.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Yes..? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s just a baby you can’t do that what if he gets hurt-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen. If he got hurt, it would be his own damn fault. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But you can’t be mean to him he’s too precious

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko laughs, then quickly tries to stifle it*

[angels-maybe]

*Azrael just looks out the window to see if Vince is okay*

What if he like-died. Or scraped his knee. Or inhaled a bug-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen, if he still managed to bungle it up that badly… it’s a miracle he’s still alive. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But why would you do that

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he shrugs*

𖡎Catharsis. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You could’ve hurt him though

*they look very upset, still staring at Mitichó like he’s committed a war crime*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Do you need to take your meds? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Probably but you could’ve hurt my baby. Evil child. I still love you but evil evil child.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I had to talk him out of trying to kill you three times this week. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s still precious baby

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻threes gotta be a record low. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

What if you killed him? How am I supposed to live without him? Miti why would you do this?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron sighs*

[angels-maybe]

I’m gonna go take my meds now but then I’m gonna come back and be very dramatic about this.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They head back into the kitchen*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains with Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They dig out of the medicine cabinet and take their meds*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry about Ron and Vince… and Liz… and probably Pyro if he shows up… 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It’s all good, you kids make my life entertaining.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Entertaining’s… one word for it. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They huff a laugh*

Oh for sure, I’d be so bored without you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmm, you’d still have Purple to give you heart attacks 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

But you’re all so fun and awesome and stuff

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Weren’t you just scolding Ron for throwing Vince into the trees? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Yeah so?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko huffs, rolling his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

I can scold you guys and still think you’re awesome.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sounds fake 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Why?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He just shrugs one shoulder*

[angels-maybe]

I’m pretty sure part of parenting is loving your kids even if you’re upset with them

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Well yeah but loving is different to liking-𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Fair, but I’m pretty sure liking your kids is also part of parenting

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He rolls his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*boop*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Baffled blinking*

[angels-maybe]

Adorable

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mhm

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko stares off into space*

[angels-maybe]

You alive?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻uuunfortunately 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Do you want a snack?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…No thanks. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Pain meds?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Took some already… had liz set a timer. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Alright. If you’re hurting too bad I can take some of it.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’ll be fine… just wasn’t expecting a headache. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mkay. Cold packs sometimes help with headaches?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I know. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*It grabs a cold pack*

Where do you wanna go?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Home. 𖢻

*Its said without any time to actually be thought about*

[angels-maybe]

And where’s that, bud?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He tears up, closing his eyes and taking a shaky breath*

𖢻Nothin’ nevermind. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just hold him closer.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

There’s nothing to be sorry about

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He shakes his head*

[angels-maybe]

Hey, it’s okay to cry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻’s stupid. He’s been gone for… for so long…𖢻

[angels-maybe]

I know buddy…those feelings though, they’re always gonna be there. And there’s nothing wrong with having them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They kiss his head*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He scrubs at his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*It summons a box of tissues*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he takes a few, drying his eyes even though no tears had properly fallen*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…huh? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It sucks, to lose someone like that.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Pin needed savin’… happens… ‘sides, I got a bes’frien’ outta it 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…yeah.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmmhm… ‘m so fuckin’ tired. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Let’s get you to bed then hm?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They take Nieko back to his bed, curling up with him and rubbing his back.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He falls asleep pretty quickly, though the room is an absolute tip*

[angels-maybe]

*They look around the room but don’t touch anything*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Half of the pieces of paper have scribbles on them that are illegible, there’s somewhat-organised piles of books and binders and loose papers… but also just way over half of the floor is covered in stationary or loose paper*

[angels-maybe]

*They take a deep breath, tuck Nieko in, and leave the room*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains dead asleep*

[angels-maybe]

*It finds a spot on the couch and mumbles something about messes and tornados*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó and Vince are talking quietly, though their tones are vicious, as they come in from outside, Elizabeth trailing behind them looking equal parts annoyed and amused*

[angels-maybe]

That room. A mess. Absolute wreck.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth pales rapidly*

[angels-maybe]

*It glances up at her and softens*

Hey kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry- I was reorganising my school stuff- I’ll go fix it-❅

[angels-maybe]

No don’t worry about it. Just uh-maybe keep the door shut when it looks like that-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅The door was shut-? ❅

[angels-maybe]

Was it? I dunno my brain is screaming-nevermind it’s all good-how can you function like that-??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrinks into herself*

❅Sorry-❅

*Vince’s expression drops from the playfully-annoyed into something completely blank, moving to block Elizabeth from Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

No-no you have nothing to be sorry for. My brain being weird shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. It’s your room. Keep it how you want to.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

[☕︎I distracted her in the middle of her organising everything she needs for school. There’s probably some of my stuff mixed in, knowing Jachi, so that’s a lot. Exams are next week, so it’s necessary for the organisation to happen now since she’s been putting it off in case you did a room check. ☕︎]

[angels-maybe]

It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just gonna stay out of there for a few days.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince nods once, still looking like he’s half a second away from attacking Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer a small smile*

It’s like having double Atlas’s. I just can’t go in his room period though.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince doesn’t smile back*

𖡎I’ll warn you the next time she’s organising. We’re all usually exiled from the blast radius when she starts anyway. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Alright.

ΨI heard my name?Ψ

*Atlas peeks out of his room.*

Yeah I’m talking about you being a walking tornado.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Lizzy decided to take a page out of your book in room decoration𖡎

*Elizabeth sends Mitichó a very half-hearted glare*

[angels-maybe]

ΨOhhh. Is mom being weird about it? They called my room a pigsty-Ψ

Yeah all it’s missing is the pig

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎A little, Liz got nervous so she’s got a bodyguard now 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

ΨAh.Ψ

*Atlas makes his way over.*

ΨI guarantee you that my room is worse, I’ve learned that as long as it stays in my room this psycho won’t reorganize it.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅’s just lots of paper- made sure everyone normally in there knew- didn’t think-❅

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas kneels down*

ΨHey, I don’t think you’re in any trouble with my mom. She doesn’t look mad. And you don’t owe them shit.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She stares at Atlas in confusion*

[angels-maybe]

ΨDo you wanna see my room? Mom knows what it looks like and I’m not in trouble, and I’m sure yours isn’t nearly as messy.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas leads her to his room…which is only missing a pig. Every surface is covered in clutter, there are month old dishes sitting on the floor, and his dirty clothes have overflowed so much that you could swim in them.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince goes to follow but Mitichó stops him with just one look. Elizabeth looks torn between wonder and horror*

[totecs-throne]

ΨIf I’m not in trouble, you’re definitely not in troubleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods slowly, eyes wide*

[totecs-throne]

*He huffs a laugh*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅How can Miti even get through that ❅

[totecs-throne]

ΨNo clue.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 8)

☕︎Your—☕︎

*He switches to English, accent way thicker than all of his siblings combined as he mocks*

☕︎Your title? ☕︎

*Vince switches back to Vampiric*

☕︎good to know what you say about me. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

Why would me being the worst ever have anything to do with talking about you-? I have an award for it that’s probably older than you-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko sighs*

𖢻Wonky translation. Liz stop fucking with him. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Huh??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko closes his eyes, taking a slow breath*

𖢻Yes he deserves it, but I’m not alive enough to deal with you both being petty and we all know that’s his permanent state of being. 𖢻

*Elizabeth opens and closes her hand as he talks, miming a mouth, rolling her eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*Blink blonk*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Just… stop. If you don’t, you’re having to deal with Olive and Hen alone next time. 𖢻

*Elizabeth glares at Nieko*

𖢻He didn’t screw up enough for that to apply, you shit. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…I am gonna need so much context for this later

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko points to Elizabeth, his eyes still closed*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*He then points to Vince*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*Nieko points to himself*

𖢻the one who has to deal with both of their bitching and moaning when one of them does something eldritch-horror-y. There’s your damn context𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…righhtttt.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron comes outside, and Elizabeth already looks like she’s been scolded as soon as he gets through the door. Vince seems amused*

𖢻Oh wooo number three’s here. Amazing. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just look so very confused*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Bají, Jachi, apologise to Azrael. 𖡎

*Elizabeth mumbles an apology, but Vince does not. Mitichó switches to Vampiric, speaking fast*

𖡎You will apologise for running off, you scared Kannika and Jachi and you failed to get Nieko to safety while you were out. 𖡎

☕︎He’s alive, ain’t he? ☕︎

𖡎Bají. Now. 𖡎

☕︎I ain’t apologising to that pig-for-brains, jam-spined fuckwit. ☕︎

*A few seconds pass, and Vince looks at Nieko*

☕︎Sorry for not finding you. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

*They just sit there*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó switches back to English*

𖡎Jachi decided to just barely change what Bají was hearing when you spoke, changed the meaning more than the words, even. Sorry about that. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Right…uh…changed to what-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron stares down Elizabeth and she ducks her head*

𖡎Good question. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Sorry I’m just very confused.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎You should probably get used to that. 𖡎

*Vince laughs*

[angels-maybe]

Probably. Liz, kiddo, could I know what you changed my words to?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She squeaks something that’s too quiet to make out*

[angels-maybe]

I didn’t quite catch that?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Her shoulders are almost to her ears*

[angels-maybe]

*They frown*

You’re safe, and I’m not upset with you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I won’t tell Cass, but you can’t keep doing this. 𖡎

*She hesitates but nods*

[angels-maybe]

Are we okay Liz?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods again, not even trying to speak*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry I pushed you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrugs, and Vince very tentatively starts walking over to Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer Elizabeth a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth doesn’t smile back, watching as Vince somehow ends up being thrown into the forest by Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

Holyshit-is he okay?!

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻He’s fine. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They stare at Mitichó as though he’s just murdered and eaten a baby bunny*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎What? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You threw him.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Yes..? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s just a baby you can’t do that what if he gets hurt-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen. If he got hurt, it would be his own damn fault. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But you can’t be mean to him he’s too precious

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko laughs, then quickly tries to stifle it*

[angels-maybe]

*Azrael just looks out the window to see if Vince is okay*

What if he like-died. Or scraped his knee. Or inhaled a bug-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen, if he still managed to bungle it up that badly… it’s a miracle he’s still alive. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But why would you do that

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he shrugs*

𖡎Catharsis. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You could’ve hurt him though

*they look very upset, still staring at Mitichó like he’s committed a war crime*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Do you need to take your meds? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Probably but you could’ve hurt my baby. Evil child. I still love you but evil evil child.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I had to talk him out of trying to kill you three times this week. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s still precious baby

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻threes gotta be a record low. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

What if you killed him? How am I supposed to live without him? Miti why would you do this?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron sighs*

[angels-maybe]

I’m gonna go take my meds now but then I’m gonna come back and be very dramatic about this.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They head back into the kitchen*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains with Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They dig out of the medicine cabinet and take their meds*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry about Ron and Vince… and Liz… and probably Pyro if he shows up… 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It’s all good, you kids make my life entertaining.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Entertaining’s… one word for it. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They huff a laugh*

Oh for sure, I’d be so bored without you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmm, you’d still have Purple to give you heart attacks 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

But you’re all so fun and awesome and stuff

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Weren’t you just scolding Ron for throwing Vince into the trees? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Yeah so?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko huffs, rolling his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

I can scold you guys and still think you’re awesome.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sounds fake 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Why?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He just shrugs one shoulder*

[angels-maybe]

I’m pretty sure part of parenting is loving your kids even if you’re upset with them

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Well yeah but loving is different to liking-𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Fair, but I’m pretty sure liking your kids is also part of parenting

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He rolls his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*boop*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Baffled blinking*

[angels-maybe]

Adorable

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mhm

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko stares off into space*

[angels-maybe]

You alive?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻uuunfortunately 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Do you want a snack?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…No thanks. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Pain meds?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Took some already… had liz set a timer. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Alright. If you’re hurting too bad I can take some of it.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’ll be fine… just wasn’t expecting a headache. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mkay. Cold packs sometimes help with headaches?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I know. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*It grabs a cold pack*

Where do you wanna go?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Home. 𖢻

*Its said without any time to actually be thought about*

[angels-maybe]

And where’s that, bud?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He tears up, closing his eyes and taking a shaky breath*

𖢻Nothin’ nevermind. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just hold him closer.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

There’s nothing to be sorry about

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He shakes his head*

[angels-maybe]

Hey, it’s okay to cry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻’s stupid. He’s been gone for… for so long…𖢻

[angels-maybe]

I know buddy…those feelings though, they’re always gonna be there. And there’s nothing wrong with having them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They kiss his head*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He scrubs at his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*It summons a box of tissues*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he takes a few, drying his eyes even though no tears had properly fallen*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…huh? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It sucks, to lose someone like that.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Pin needed savin’… happens… ‘sides, I got a bes’frien’ outta it 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…yeah.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmmhm… ‘m so fuckin’ tired. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Let’s get you to bed then hm?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They take Nieko back to his bed, curling up with him and rubbing his back.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He falls asleep pretty quickly, though the room is an absolute tip*

[angels-maybe]

*They look around the room but don’t touch anything*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Half of the pieces of paper have scribbles on them that are illegible, there’s somewhat-organised piles of books and binders and loose papers… but also just way over half of the floor is covered in stationary or loose paper*

[angels-maybe]

*They take a deep breath, tuck Nieko in, and leave the room*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains dead asleep*

[angels-maybe]

*It finds a spot on the couch and mumbles something about messes and tornados*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó and Vince are talking quietly, though their tones are vicious, as they come in from outside, Elizabeth trailing behind them looking equal parts annoyed and amused*

[angels-maybe]

That room. A mess. Absolute wreck.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth pales rapidly*

[angels-maybe]

*It glances up at her and softens*

Hey kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry- I was reorganising my school stuff- I’ll go fix it-❅

[angels-maybe]

No don’t worry about it. Just uh-maybe keep the door shut when it looks like that-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅The door was shut-? ❅

[angels-maybe]

Was it? I dunno my brain is screaming-nevermind it’s all good-how can you function like that-??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrinks into herself*

❅Sorry-❅

*Vince’s expression drops from the playfully-annoyed into something completely blank, moving to block Elizabeth from Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

No-no you have nothing to be sorry for. My brain being weird shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. It’s your room. Keep it how you want to.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

[☕︎I distracted her in the middle of her organising everything she needs for school. There’s probably some of my stuff mixed in, knowing Jachi, so that’s a lot. Exams are next week, so it’s necessary for the organisation to happen now since she’s been putting it off in case you did a room check. ☕︎]

[angels-maybe]

It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just gonna stay out of there for a few days.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince nods once, still looking like he’s half a second away from attacking Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer a small smile*

It’s like having double Atlas’s. I just can’t go in his room period though.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince doesn’t smile back*

𖡎I’ll warn you the next time she’s organising. We’re all usually exiled from the blast radius when she starts anyway. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Alright.

ΨI heard my name?Ψ

*Atlas peeks out of his room.*

Yeah I’m talking about you being a walking tornado.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Lizzy decided to take a page out of your book in room decoration𖡎

*Elizabeth sends Mitichó a very half-hearted glare*

[angels-maybe]

ΨOhhh. Is mom being weird about it? They called my room a pigsty-Ψ

Yeah all it’s missing is the pig

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎A little, Liz got nervous so she’s got a bodyguard now 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

ΨAh.Ψ

*Atlas makes his way over.*

ΨI guarantee you that my room is worse, I’ve learned that as long as it stays in my room this psycho won’t reorganize it.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅’s just lots of paper- made sure everyone normally in there knew- didn’t think-❅

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas kneels down*

ΨHey, I don’t think you’re in any trouble with my mom. She doesn’t look mad. And you don’t owe them shit.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She stares at Atlas in confusion*

[angels-maybe]

ΨDo you wanna see my room? Mom knows what it looks like and I’m not in trouble, and I’m sure yours isn’t nearly as messy.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas leads her to his room…which is only missing a pig. Every surface is covered in clutter, there are month old dishes sitting on the floor, and his dirty clothes have overflowed so much that you could swim in them.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince goes to follow but Mitichó stops him with just one look. Elizabeth looks torn between wonder and horror*

[totecs-throne]

ΨIf I’m not in trouble, you’re definitely not in troubleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods slowly, eyes wide*

[totecs-throne]

*He huffs a laugh*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 8)

☕︎Your—☕︎

*He switches to English, accent way thicker than all of his siblings combined as he mocks*

☕︎Your title? ☕︎

*Vince switches back to Vampiric*

☕︎good to know what you say about me. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

Why would me being the worst ever have anything to do with talking about you-? I have an award for it that’s probably older than you-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko sighs*

𖢻Wonky translation. Liz stop fucking with him. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Huh??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko closes his eyes, taking a slow breath*

𖢻Yes he deserves it, but I’m not alive enough to deal with you both being petty and we all know that’s his permanent state of being. 𖢻

*Elizabeth opens and closes her hand as he talks, miming a mouth, rolling her eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*Blink blonk*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Just… stop. If you don’t, you’re having to deal with Olive and Hen alone next time. 𖢻

*Elizabeth glares at Nieko*

𖢻He didn’t screw up enough for that to apply, you shit. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…I am gonna need so much context for this later

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko points to Elizabeth, his eyes still closed*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*He then points to Vince*

𖢻Eldritch horror. 𖢻

*Nieko points to himself*

𖢻the one who has to deal with both of their bitching and moaning when one of them does something eldritch-horror-y. There’s your damn context𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…righhtttt.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron comes outside, and Elizabeth already looks like she’s been scolded as soon as he gets through the door. Vince seems amused*

𖢻Oh wooo number three’s here. Amazing. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just look so very confused*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Bají, Jachi, apologise to Azrael. 𖡎

*Elizabeth mumbles an apology, but Vince does not. Mitichó switches to Vampiric, speaking fast*

𖡎You will apologise for running off, you scared Kannika and Jachi and you failed to get Nieko to safety while you were out. 𖡎

☕︎He’s alive, ain’t he? ☕︎

𖡎Bají. Now. 𖡎

☕︎I ain’t apologising to that pig-for-brains, jam-spined fuckwit. ☕︎

*A few seconds pass, and Vince looks at Nieko*

☕︎Sorry for not finding you. ☕︎

[angels-maybe]

*They just sit there*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó switches back to English*

𖡎Jachi decided to just barely change what Bají was hearing when you spoke, changed the meaning more than the words, even. Sorry about that. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Right…uh…changed to what-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron stares down Elizabeth and she ducks her head*

𖡎Good question. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Sorry I’m just very confused.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎You should probably get used to that. 𖡎

*Vince laughs*

[angels-maybe]

Probably. Liz, kiddo, could I know what you changed my words to?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She squeaks something that’s too quiet to make out*

[angels-maybe]

I didn’t quite catch that?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Her shoulders are almost to her ears*

[angels-maybe]

*They frown*

You’re safe, and I’m not upset with you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I won’t tell Cass, but you can’t keep doing this. 𖡎

*She hesitates but nods*

[angels-maybe]

Are we okay Liz?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods again, not even trying to speak*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry I pushed you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrugs, and Vince very tentatively starts walking over to Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer Elizabeth a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth doesn’t smile back, watching as Vince somehow ends up being thrown into the forest by Mitichó*

[angels-maybe]

Holyshit-is he okay?!

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻He’s fine. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They stare at Mitichó as though he’s just murdered and eaten a baby bunny*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎What? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You threw him.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Yes..? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s just a baby you can’t do that what if he gets hurt-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen. If he got hurt, it would be his own damn fault. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But you can’t be mean to him he’s too precious

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko laughs, then quickly tries to stifle it*

[angels-maybe]

*Azrael just looks out the window to see if Vince is okay*

What if he like-died. Or scraped his knee. Or inhaled a bug-

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎He knew what was going to happen, if he still managed to bungle it up that badly… it’s a miracle he’s still alive. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

But why would you do that

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he shrugs*

𖡎Catharsis. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

You could’ve hurt him though

*they look very upset, still staring at Mitichó like he’s committed a war crime*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎…Do you need to take your meds? 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Probably but you could’ve hurt my baby. Evil child. I still love you but evil evil child.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎I had to talk him out of trying to kill you three times this week. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

He’s still precious baby

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻threes gotta be a record low. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

What if you killed him? How am I supposed to live without him? Miti why would you do this?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Ron sighs*

[angels-maybe]

I’m gonna go take my meds now but then I’m gonna come back and be very dramatic about this.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They head back into the kitchen*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains with Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They dig out of the medicine cabinet and take their meds*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry about Ron and Vince… and Liz… and probably Pyro if he shows up… 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It’s all good, you kids make my life entertaining.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Entertaining’s… one word for it. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They huff a laugh*

Oh for sure, I’d be so bored without you

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmm, you’d still have Purple to give you heart attacks 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

But you’re all so fun and awesome and stuff

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Weren’t you just scolding Ron for throwing Vince into the trees? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Yeah so?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko huffs, rolling his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

I can scold you guys and still think you’re awesome.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sounds fake 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Why?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He just shrugs one shoulder*

[angels-maybe]

I’m pretty sure part of parenting is loving your kids even if you’re upset with them

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Well yeah but loving is different to liking-𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Fair, but I’m pretty sure liking your kids is also part of parenting

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He rolls his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*boop*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Baffled blinking*

[angels-maybe]

Adorable

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mhm

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko stares off into space*

[angels-maybe]

You alive?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻uuunfortunately 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Do you want a snack?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…No thanks. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Pain meds?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Took some already… had liz set a timer. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Alright. If you’re hurting too bad I can take some of it.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’ll be fine… just wasn’t expecting a headache. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Mkay. Cold packs sometimes help with headaches?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I know. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*It grabs a cold pack*

Where do you wanna go?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Home. 𖢻

*Its said without any time to actually be thought about*

[angels-maybe]

And where’s that, bud?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He tears up, closing his eyes and taking a shaky breath*

𖢻Nothin’ nevermind. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

*They just hold him closer.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

There’s nothing to be sorry about

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He shakes his head*

[angels-maybe]

Hey, it’s okay to cry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻’s stupid. He’s been gone for… for so long…𖢻

[angels-maybe]

I know buddy…those feelings though, they’re always gonna be there. And there’s nothing wrong with having them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They kiss his head*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He scrubs at his eyes*

[angels-maybe]

*It summons a box of tissues*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he takes a few, drying his eyes even though no tears had properly fallen*

[angels-maybe]

I’m sorry kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…huh? 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

It sucks, to lose someone like that.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Pin needed savin’… happens… ‘sides, I got a bes’frien’ outta it 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

…yeah.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Mmmhm… ‘m so fuckin’ tired. 𖢻

[angels-maybe]

Let’s get you to bed then hm?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko nods*

[angels-maybe]

*They take Nieko back to his bed, curling up with him and rubbing his back.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He falls asleep pretty quickly, though the room is an absolute tip*

[angels-maybe]

*They look around the room but don’t touch anything*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Half of the pieces of paper have scribbles on them that are illegible, there’s somewhat-organised piles of books and binders and loose papers… but also just way over half of the floor is covered in stationary or loose paper*

[angels-maybe]

*They take a deep breath, tuck Nieko in, and leave the room*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko remains dead asleep*

[angels-maybe]

*It finds a spot on the couch and mumbles something about messes and tornados*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Mitichó and Vince are talking quietly, though their tones are vicious, as they come in from outside, Elizabeth trailing behind them looking equal parts annoyed and amused*

[angels-maybe]

That room. A mess. Absolute wreck.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth pales rapidly*

[angels-maybe]

*It glances up at her and softens*

Hey kiddo.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Sorry- I was reorganising my school stuff- I’ll go fix it-❅

[angels-maybe]

No don’t worry about it. Just uh-maybe keep the door shut when it looks like that-?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅The door was shut-? ❅

[angels-maybe]

Was it? I dunno my brain is screaming-nevermind it’s all good-how can you function like that-??

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She shrinks into herself*

❅Sorry-❅

*Vince’s expression drops from the playfully-annoyed into something completely blank, moving to block Elizabeth from Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

No-no you have nothing to be sorry for. My brain being weird shouldn’t be something you have to worry about. It’s your room. Keep it how you want to.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

[☕︎I distracted her in the middle of her organising everything she needs for school. There’s probably some of my stuff mixed in, knowing Jachi, so that’s a lot. Exams are next week, so it’s necessary for the organisation to happen now since she’s been putting it off in case you did a room check. ☕︎]

[angels-maybe]

It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it, I’m just gonna stay out of there for a few days.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince nods once, still looking like he’s half a second away from attacking Azrael*

[angels-maybe]

*They offer a small smile*

It’s like having double Atlas’s. I just can’t go in his room period though.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince doesn’t smile back*

𖡎I’ll warn you the next time she’s organising. We’re all usually exiled from the blast radius when she starts anyway. 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

Alright.

ΨI heard my name?Ψ

*Atlas peeks out of his room.*

Yeah I’m talking about you being a walking tornado.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎Lizzy decided to take a page out of your book in room decoration𖡎

*Elizabeth sends Mitichó a very half-hearted glare*

[angels-maybe]

ΨOhhh. Is mom being weird about it? They called my room a pigsty-Ψ

Yeah all it’s missing is the pig

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖡎A little, Liz got nervous so she’s got a bodyguard now 𖡎

[angels-maybe]

ΨAh.Ψ

*Atlas makes his way over.*

ΨI guarantee you that my room is worse, I’ve learned that as long as it stays in my room this psycho won’t reorganize it.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅’s just lots of paper- made sure everyone normally in there knew- didn’t think-❅

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas kneels down*

ΨHey, I don’t think you’re in any trouble with my mom. She doesn’t look mad. And you don’t owe them shit.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She stares at Atlas in confusion*

[angels-maybe]

ΨDo you wanna see my room? Mom knows what it looks like and I’m not in trouble, and I’m sure yours isn’t nearly as messy.Ψ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She hesitates, but nods*

[angels-maybe]

*Atlas leads her to his room…which is only missing a pig. Every surface is covered in clutter, there are month old dishes sitting on the floor, and his dirty clothes have overflowed so much that you could swim in them.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Vince goes to follow but Mitichó stops him with just one look. Elizabeth looks torn between wonder and horror*

[totecs-throne]

ΨIf I’m not in trouble, you’re definitely not in troubleΨ

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 6)

༒︎Grounded forever when I go home. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

∰I’m sure you’ll get cut some slack∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin tilts his head, and the gesture is so similar to how Vince does it that Nieko winces*

[totecs-throne]

∰Aza is very good at convincing people to go easy on kids∰

Imma what now?

*Azrael gets through the front door and immediately trades their cane for a wheelchair, taking off their shoes and gloves*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin waves at Azrael, smiling shyly*

[totecs-throne]

Oh hi kiddo, how are you doing? Good I hope?

*Azrael smiles at Alin*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Got lost. Gonna grounded forever. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Oh no. Well I’m sure you won’t be grounded forever, it was an accident after all. How about I help you get back?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Forever and ever. ༒︎

*He pouts, crossing his arms*

❅…You know the way back..? ❅

༒︎Was there! Met momma and uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Yeah I know how to get there. Alin, kiddo, I’ll save you from being grounded forever and ever. Don’t worry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin nods, still pouting*

[totecs-throne]

You wanna head out or wait a minute?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin puts two fingers up, then very slowly tries to poke Elizabeth, who seems completely and entirely unbothered… until his finger actually pokes her, and she jumps away*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael nods and grabs a bottle of soda.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin laughs, delighted, as Elizabeth is suddenly across the room, glaring at him*

[totecs-throne]

Alin, Liz doesn’t like being touched.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Didn’t think… would work? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Understandable. Just for future reference since apparently it did work

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He nods, but doesn’t seem happy about the new rule. Nieko squints at the ghost… resulting in Alin flipping him off*

[totecs-throne]

*Theres a sigh from Azrael. Xipe huffs a laugh.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Was rude first. ༒︎

𖢻Liz doesn’t get freaked out by things she made. Holy shit you’re actually a ghost. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

I think my no swearing rule died at this point

♬Oh it’s long dead♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko winces, muttering an apology to Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

It’s fine I gave up on it

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

*Elizabeth frowns*

[totecs-throne]

No need, you’re all good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko hesitates, but doesn’t say anything more*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris curls up in Azrael’s lap as they start a crochet project*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Is Lavina okay? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Yeah, she’s probably gonna be in trouble when she gets home but she’s safe.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Why? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Parties don’t give her a free pass to drink and smoke, and she somehow forgets that fact half the time.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*slow nod*

[totecs-throne]

∰Za has her though right?∰

Yeah I trust him to keep her alive

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth glances at Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

Has everyone eaten?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I think so? ❅

*Elizabeth seems slightly surprised at how loud her own voice is, even as it still isn’t synced to her mouth*

[totecs-throne]

Mkay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Why were you gone? ❅

[totecs-throne]

One of your cousins got spooked and Vivi got worried and I felt it. When I actually got there, there was no danger. Then after that was settled I had to deal with Vivi being an idiot.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Which one? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Baph.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I have a cousin named Bath?? ❅

[totecs-throne]

B A P H.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Who names their kids that? Does their parents hate them? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Probably, I don’t know.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She frowns a little*

[totecs-throne]

I mean, I have a kid named worm so I can’t say much.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Yeah, but Vince named them. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Fair point.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Wait, did they know Vince named them? Because I learned that- like- yesterday? 𖢻

*Elizabeth shrugs*

[totecs-throne]

I don’t remember if I knew that or not but I’m sure if I did know it’s written down somewhere

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…right. 𖢻

*Elizabeth stares at Nieko*

𖢻I didn’t hit my head that hard, shut up. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael squints at Neiko*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glares at Azrael flatly*

𖢻I don’t have a concussion. Shut up, Liz-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

…you get next week off school just in case.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻If I had a concussion, I would’ve noticed while I was healing myself-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Eh either way you’re still hurt. No school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems somewhere between confused and disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

∰Agreed.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’m fine-𖢻

*both Alin and Elizabeth make a noise of disagreement*

[totecs-throne]

You’re still not going to school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko grumbles*

[totecs-throne]

You’ll appreciate it eventually.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He flops back against the couch, mumbling something that Azrael doesn’t catch… but judging by the glare Elizabeth gives Nieko, she does*

[totecs-throne]

Yknow most kids are happy to skip school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻How? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Basically free vacation.

∰If you’re concerned about the work I’m sure I could run and grab it from your teacher?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He drags a hand down his face*

𖢻Liz’ll get it. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Alright.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth raises an eyebrow*

𖢻It’s fine, I just won’t sleep. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

If you need help with it either Xipe or I could help out.

∰I’m very good at being a teacher. All I need is a cardigan and corny glasses.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

We’ll figure it out

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Hm. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰It’ll be good father son bonding time anyhow∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Or not, if you don’t want my invasion.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I- uh-𖢻

*Nieko’s eye twitches and he turns around to shout at Elizabeth*

𖢻Oh my stars, SHUT UP! 𖢻

*She stares at him with wide eyes*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael winces but doesn’t say anything.*

∰Do you think we could maybe be just a tad quieter?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻You’re telling me to be quieter? She’s been shouting into my skull for the past— since the concussion thing got brought up! 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Okay, okay. Liz, please don’t shout into Nieko’s skull. Neeks, take a breath please.∰

*Azrael sighs and grabs a paper towel to stop their left ear from bleeding.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth looks away from Nieko and every bit of tension drains from him instantly*

[totecs-throne]

∰Thank you Liz. You okay bud?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something entirely unintelligible*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe just sits next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*a drop of blood drips from his head onto the couch*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe immediately looks for the source of the blood*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches away, and suddenly his hair is completely saturated with blood*

[totecs-throne]

∰Can I take a look there buddy?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He slams his hands over his ears*

❅…stop looking at him. ❅

*Her voice is the quietest it’s been since Alin showed up, shaking a little*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe looks away*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*It takes a few seconds for the bleeding to slow to a stop, blood covering his hands and the majority of his face by the time it has*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael wets a towel and rolls over to Nieko, not looking at him as they wipe the blood from his face.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches at the wetness*

[totecs-throne]

*The towel dries in an instant.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Very slowly, he moves out from his defensive position, still covering his ears (like that’d do anything to help his mind-reading) as he takes a very shaky breath*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael just continues wiping away the blood, keeping their gaze on the air next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*His breaths slowly become less shaky*

[totecs-throne]

*They clean as much as they can without moving his hands.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth leaves the room, coming back with a stress ball and putting it on the coffee table in front of Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe offers her a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods to him*

❅Helped last time. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*He nods*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glances at the stress ball, but doesn’t reach for it*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael plants a kiss to his forehead, still keeping their gaze averted*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

You’re okay bud, I love you. It’s okay.

*Azrael pulls Nieko into an ever so gentle hug*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He leans into it*

[totecs-throne]

*They hold him close and rub his back*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

It’s okay Nieko, I’ve got you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he whines wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*They pull him fully into its lap, wrapping around him.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth smiles a little*

[totecs-throne]

I’ve got you Neeks. I love you, and everything is okay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something inaudible*

[totecs-throne]

*They just hold him closer*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko’s chest barely moves with his breaths*

[totecs-throne]

*Very gentle back rubs*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Through his thin shirt, they can feel bandages*

[totecs-throne]

*They frown but say nothing*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅He’s been worse. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*Slow nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅So he’ll be fine. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin fidgets*

[totecs-throne]

♬Wanna see all the animals?♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he nods rapidly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles and heads outside, motioning for Alin to follow*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He follows wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*She stops at the paddock to pet Sunny*

♬This is Sunny, he’s my mom’s♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head at Sunny*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He giggles*

༒︎Cǎluț! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles as Sunny sniffs at Alin*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to pet sunny but frowns when his hand passes right through*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He pouts a little*

༒︎…least you’re alive… being dead sucks.༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Sorry you’re dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin giggles*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Sound like… when Lizzy visits graves! Ack-ard?༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Ohh. Yeah I’m awkward I guess?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Footsteps appear in the grass and Alin’s face lights up*

[totecs-throne]

♬Who’s here-?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Uncle who?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters a few things*

༒︎Sad…kill? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬The one that messed up my hair that one time?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still beaming*

[totecs-throne]

♬Hi evil Tío-er-uncle-whichever side of the family you are…I should tell Abuelita. She’ll want to say hi.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin looks to where the footprints are, tilting his head*

༒︎Nooo! I don’t wanna! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Not home yet! Have friend and… and Sunny! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬And we were gonna see the rest of the animals and play!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at the air as the footsteps approach… then bites at something. Suddenly a humanoid creature appears, not looking all that dissimilar to when Satan tries to look more human, except with sharper teeth and dark stains crawling up his arms and down his horns*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris types something on her phone and Esme just…appears. Still with a half finished skirt in their hands.*

☾Zadkiel!☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel stares disapprovingly at Alin, before looking at Esme, voice a lot steadier than it had been in life*

°Arts and crafts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Yeah…I’m so glad to see you.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a face that looks almost like a grimace*

༒︎Fix your face. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin be nice. Or I’ll have an ostrich chase you☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin sputters indignantly, muttering in Romanian*

°He’s already going to be grounded for a year. No need to add torture.°

[totecs-throne]

☾A year? For what?☾

♬Playing with me while having evil uncle♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°For running off and getting lost. The only reason I was able to find him is because the… uh…groază… was loud about it. °

[totecs-throne]

*Esme huffs a laugh*

☾Well at least he ended up here?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a few noises that have Alin looking torn between laughter and dismay*

°—Even know where here is!°

[totecs-throne]

☾Az’s home. So, somewhere safe at least.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs, running a hand through hair that’s mostly grey*

[totecs-throne]

♬Can’t he stay?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No.°

༒︎But-༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure he can come visit another time, yeah? Just not today☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But ground! ༒︎

°You ran across the entire length of Heaven in the span of two minutes when I looked away from you.°

*Alin huffs*

[totecs-throne]

☾Next time maybe we tell adults where we’re going hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin scowls, mumbling something*

[totecs-throne]

*They huff a laugh, crouching down.*

☾What is it dear?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎He was being gross with other uncle. ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

°You ran off… because my partner and I held hands?°

*Alin huffs, crossing his arms*

[totecs-throne]

☾Scandalous, I say. Next time maybe don’t run away though?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎No, you don’t get it! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alright, could you maybe explain it to me then?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at Esme*

[totecs-throne]

☾You said I don’t get it, and I want to understand. Otherwise I can’t argue in your favor because I won’t get it.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters something in Romanian, to which Zadkiel sighs*

°I was not ignoring you. I looked away for less than a minute.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ah. Your feelings were hurt?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods*

[totecs-throne]

☾I think I get it, kiddo. I don’t like it when I feel ignored either.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He suddenly looks angry*

༒︎Who ignores you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No one in a very long time. Dont you worry about that☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still frowning*

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure that Zadkiel wasn’t trying to ignore you, though.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But he was! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Sometimes grown ups do things that come across in ways we don’t mean. I don’t think he wanted to hurt your feelings, but he did hurt them hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods, seemingly reluctantly*

[totecs-throne]

☾Is there anything we can do to make you feel better?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎you couuuuld… tell me who ignored you? ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

☾And how is that gonna help?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Make me feel better. ༒︎

°You’re not going to torment anyone, Alin, you’re grounded-°

*Alin makes mocking noises and Zadkiel just looks… so done*

[totecs-throne]

☾How about after you’re all done being grounded?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But they’ll all be dead by then! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Nuh uh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Yuh huh because you’re old and I’m gonna be grounded for hundred years! ༒︎

°…Is this because Tom joked you’d be grounded until college last time?°

*Alin nods seriously, and Zadkiel has to cover his mouth as he smiles*

[totecs-throne]

☾Okay yeah I’ll be dead by then but Azriel won’t be. You can pick on them.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Az…el ignore you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No but they ran away from me once when I hit them with a shoe.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

☾I told them ‘You can’t eat all my waffles’ and they did anyways so I took off my shoe and whacked their arm with it and they started running so I had to chase them and I’m way too old to do all that work.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares towards the house, and goes to stomp inside but Zadkiel scoops him up, getting punched and kicked as he did so*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin-don’t attack my precious baby-☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin screeches something in Romanian and Zadkiel rolls his eyes… putting him in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme laughs*

♬…I should have let that one guy kidnap me, then I wouldn’t have to deal with this♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Who tried to kidnap you?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Just some guy.♬

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Does that guy have a name?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Probably did, but I didn’t stop to ask. ♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just stares at him*

♬You know who raised me right? The bitch is dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Azrael didn’t exactly have self-preservation as an infant and I wasn’t allowed near them much after that.°

*He deadpans*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris shrugs*

♬They’re a vibe, I once watched her eat someone’s heart.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*approving nods*

[totecs-throne]

I hear you talking about me out here-

*Azrael comes to a dead halt halfway off the porch when they spot Zadkiel-and faceplant in the mud with their wheelchair landing on top of them.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel rushes over immediately… completely forgetting that he can’t actually help*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme is close behind, helping them back up into the chair*

☾Real smart Az☾

Well I was a tad shocked to see my dead brother-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°My nephew sprinted across heaven because I looked away from him for a second.°

[totecs-throne]

Sounds about right-OW-

*Azrael swats at Elliot, who is hitting him with their shoe*

☾Bad child, no falling while hurt.☾

You’re literally hitting me-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to make a break for it, getting all of two steps before he’s back in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

I was gonna bring Alin home eventually.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No kidding. He’d probably bolt as soon as you got distracted on the way.°

*Alin resumes flailing, trying to hit Zadkiel in any way possible while he seems bored*

[totecs-throne]

Yeah most likely.

♬Mom?♬

Hm?

♬Can I have hot chocolate?♬

Yeah go make some.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin finally goes limp in the air jail*

[totecs-throne]

♬No I want the hot chocolate that you make!♬

It’s the exact same as every other hot chocolate-

♬No it’s not!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel watches in amusement*

[totecs-throne]

Okay, okay. I’ll make hot chocolate when I go inside, deal?

♬Yay!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin mumbles something stroppily and Zadkiel moves him so he’s sat on his hip*

[totecs-throne]

What’s up kiddo?

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°He was saying he wanted some.°

*Zadkiel has the slightest hint of a smile, though it still doesn’t look right*

°Alin has had chocolate a total of once, and I am unfamiliar with hot chocolate myself.°

[totecs-throne]

☾So hot chocolate for you two then?☾

Woah woah woah a first experience with hot chocolate cannot be the monstrosity I make it has to be something that’s actually good-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…You both do realise we are ghosts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ghost hot chocolate.☾

♬That’s a thing?♬

☾I’ll make it a thing☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel continues to seem amused, but Alin perks up*

[totecs-throne]

How are we planning to do that?

☾I’ll either force it into existence myself or I’ll go up to Liz and get down on my knees and beg like a peasant. Duh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel glances towards the cabin, eyebrows furrowed*

[totecs-throne]

Well I don’t think you can just will ghost hot chocolate into existence-

☾Boy where do you think you came from?☾

…uh….the cabbage patch..? A stork? Santa clause? One of those things.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Try Gabriel’s teenage angst.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Somethin like that.☾

Nah cabbage patch sounds better.

♬Wait Auncle Gabriel had sex as a teenager? Does that mean I can have sex when I turn thirteen-♬

No! ☾Absolutely not!☾

*Azrael and Elliot speak in unison*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Not as far as I am aware, I was more referring to them doing… reckless things.°

*Alin tugs on Zadkiel’s shirt*

༒︎What sex? ༒︎

°That is a question for Hope.°

[totecs-throne]

Iris I’m going to kill you

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin laughs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just starts hopping around and Azrael chases her in circles*

♬Nananabooboo you can’t catch me!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°I’m sure they can.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Nuh uh!♬

*Azrael promptly grabs Iris and puts her in air jail*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris detaches her leg to hit Azrael with it.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°You should be nicer to your mother in their old age.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother isn’t here, dumbbutt-♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He stares at Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

I’m Mom. Mom Mama and Mother are separate people.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods slowly, albeit visibly confused*

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother is the strict one, Mom is the normal one, and Mama is the one who lets us do whatever we want.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Right.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mhm mhm. And then there’s Dad. He’s just kinda there. Oh and there’s Leo. He parents us sometimes when he’s bored and homeless♬

…Mother is my older sister Zyana, who helped me raise the kids when I was younger. Mama is my younger sibling Penny, who thinks since everything of mine is theirs that includes the kids.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods along slowly*

[totecs-throne]

In simple terms my kids decided my husband and I weren’t good enough and went off and got three more parents.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Well I haven’t met your current husband, but I don’t think he’d be that bad.°

[totecs-throne]

Well he’s definitely an upgrade from the last one.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Anyone would be, the last one was a cradlerobber.°

[totecs-throne]

Yeah. I stole his children in retaliation.

*Azrael smiles like it’s the most normal sentence in the world*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Good, he didn’t deserve them. Or you.°

[totecs-throne]

Oh he definitely didn’t deserve those precious babies. I don’t even deserve them.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin climbs out of Zadkiel’s grasp, making a run towards the trees. Zadkiel looks to the sky as he mouths something before catching Alin, bringing the boy back over*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin, would you like to know something?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

*An ostrich appears and starts trying to eat Alin*

☾Ostriches eat bad children.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin shrieks and turns invisible*

[totecs-throne]

*the bird just starts biting Azrael instead*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel’s jaw tightens*

[totecs-throne]

Iris, dear, will you put Bolt back in his pen?

*Iris sighs dramatically but does as she’s told, struggling to drag the ostrich back behind the barn*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin is a lot more translucent than he was before, half-hiding from Esme behind Zadkiel*

[totecs-throne]

☾I didn’t mean to actually scare you kid, sorry. Ostriches don’t eat people.☾

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 6)

༒︎Grounded forever when I go home. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

∰I’m sure you’ll get cut some slack∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin tilts his head, and the gesture is so similar to how Vince does it that Nieko winces*

[totecs-throne]

∰Aza is very good at convincing people to go easy on kids∰

Imma what now?

*Azrael gets through the front door and immediately trades their cane for a wheelchair, taking off their shoes and gloves*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin waves at Azrael, smiling shyly*

[totecs-throne]

Oh hi kiddo, how are you doing? Good I hope?

*Azrael smiles at Alin*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Got lost. Gonna grounded forever. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Oh no. Well I’m sure you won’t be grounded forever, it was an accident after all. How about I help you get back?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Forever and ever. ༒︎

*He pouts, crossing his arms*

❅…You know the way back..? ❅

༒︎Was there! Met momma and uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Yeah I know how to get there. Alin, kiddo, I’ll save you from being grounded forever and ever. Don’t worry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin nods, still pouting*

[totecs-throne]

You wanna head out or wait a minute?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin puts two fingers up, then very slowly tries to poke Elizabeth, who seems completely and entirely unbothered… until his finger actually pokes her, and she jumps away*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael nods and grabs a bottle of soda.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin laughs, delighted, as Elizabeth is suddenly across the room, glaring at him*

[totecs-throne]

Alin, Liz doesn’t like being touched.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Didn’t think… would work? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Understandable. Just for future reference since apparently it did work

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He nods, but doesn’t seem happy about the new rule. Nieko squints at the ghost… resulting in Alin flipping him off*

[totecs-throne]

*Theres a sigh from Azrael. Xipe huffs a laugh.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Was rude first. ༒︎

𖢻Liz doesn’t get freaked out by things she made. Holy shit you’re actually a ghost. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

I think my no swearing rule died at this point

♬Oh it’s long dead♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko winces, muttering an apology to Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

It’s fine I gave up on it

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

*Elizabeth frowns*

[totecs-throne]

No need, you’re all good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko hesitates, but doesn’t say anything more*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris curls up in Azrael’s lap as they start a crochet project*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Is Lavina okay? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Yeah, she’s probably gonna be in trouble when she gets home but she’s safe.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Why? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Parties don’t give her a free pass to drink and smoke, and she somehow forgets that fact half the time.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*slow nod*

[totecs-throne]

∰Za has her though right?∰

Yeah I trust him to keep her alive

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth glances at Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

Has everyone eaten?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I think so? ❅

*Elizabeth seems slightly surprised at how loud her own voice is, even as it still isn’t synced to her mouth*

[totecs-throne]

Mkay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Why were you gone? ❅

[totecs-throne]

One of your cousins got spooked and Vivi got worried and I felt it. When I actually got there, there was no danger. Then after that was settled I had to deal with Vivi being an idiot.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Which one? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Baph.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I have a cousin named Bath?? ❅

[totecs-throne]

B A P H.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Who names their kids that? Does their parents hate them? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Probably, I don’t know.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She frowns a little*

[totecs-throne]

I mean, I have a kid named worm so I can’t say much.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Yeah, but Vince named them. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Fair point.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Wait, did they know Vince named them? Because I learned that- like- yesterday? 𖢻

*Elizabeth shrugs*

[totecs-throne]

I don’t remember if I knew that or not but I’m sure if I did know it’s written down somewhere

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…right. 𖢻

*Elizabeth stares at Nieko*

𖢻I didn’t hit my head that hard, shut up. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael squints at Neiko*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glares at Azrael flatly*

𖢻I don’t have a concussion. Shut up, Liz-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

…you get next week off school just in case.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻If I had a concussion, I would’ve noticed while I was healing myself-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Eh either way you’re still hurt. No school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems somewhere between confused and disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

∰Agreed.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’m fine-𖢻

*both Alin and Elizabeth make a noise of disagreement*

[totecs-throne]

You’re still not going to school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko grumbles*

[totecs-throne]

You’ll appreciate it eventually.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He flops back against the couch, mumbling something that Azrael doesn’t catch… but judging by the glare Elizabeth gives Nieko, she does*

[totecs-throne]

Yknow most kids are happy to skip school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻How? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Basically free vacation.

∰If you’re concerned about the work I’m sure I could run and grab it from your teacher?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He drags a hand down his face*

𖢻Liz’ll get it. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Alright.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth raises an eyebrow*

𖢻It’s fine, I just won’t sleep. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

If you need help with it either Xipe or I could help out.

∰I’m very good at being a teacher. All I need is a cardigan and corny glasses.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

We’ll figure it out

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Hm. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰It’ll be good father son bonding time anyhow∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Or not, if you don’t want my invasion.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I- uh-𖢻

*Nieko’s eye twitches and he turns around to shout at Elizabeth*

𖢻Oh my stars, SHUT UP! 𖢻

*She stares at him with wide eyes*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael winces but doesn’t say anything.*

∰Do you think we could maybe be just a tad quieter?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻You’re telling me to be quieter? She’s been shouting into my skull for the past— since the concussion thing got brought up! 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Okay, okay. Liz, please don’t shout into Nieko’s skull. Neeks, take a breath please.∰

*Azrael sighs and grabs a paper towel to stop their left ear from bleeding.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth looks away from Nieko and every bit of tension drains from him instantly*

[totecs-throne]

∰Thank you Liz. You okay bud?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something entirely unintelligible*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe just sits next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*a drop of blood drips from his head onto the couch*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe immediately looks for the source of the blood*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches away, and suddenly his hair is completely saturated with blood*

[totecs-throne]

∰Can I take a look there buddy?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He slams his hands over his ears*

❅…stop looking at him. ❅

*Her voice is the quietest it’s been since Alin showed up, shaking a little*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe looks away*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*It takes a few seconds for the bleeding to slow to a stop, blood covering his hands and the majority of his face by the time it has*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael wets a towel and rolls over to Nieko, not looking at him as they wipe the blood from his face.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches at the wetness*

[totecs-throne]

*The towel dries in an instant.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Very slowly, he moves out from his defensive position, still covering his ears (like that’d do anything to help his mind-reading) as he takes a very shaky breath*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael just continues wiping away the blood, keeping their gaze on the air next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*His breaths slowly become less shaky*

[totecs-throne]

*They clean as much as they can without moving his hands.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth leaves the room, coming back with a stress ball and putting it on the coffee table in front of Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe offers her a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods to him*

❅Helped last time. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*He nods*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glances at the stress ball, but doesn’t reach for it*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael plants a kiss to his forehead, still keeping their gaze averted*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

You’re okay bud, I love you. It’s okay.

*Azrael pulls Nieko into an ever so gentle hug*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He leans into it*

[totecs-throne]

*They hold him close and rub his back*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

It’s okay Nieko, I’ve got you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he whines wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*They pull him fully into its lap, wrapping around him.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth smiles a little*

[totecs-throne]

I’ve got you Neeks. I love you, and everything is okay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something inaudible*

[totecs-throne]

*They just hold him closer*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko’s chest barely moves with his breaths*

[totecs-throne]

*Very gentle back rubs*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Through his thin shirt, they can feel bandages*

[totecs-throne]

*They frown but say nothing*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅He’s been worse. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*Slow nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅So he’ll be fine. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin fidgets*

[totecs-throne]

♬Wanna see all the animals?♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he nods rapidly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles and heads outside, motioning for Alin to follow*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He follows wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*She stops at the paddock to pet Sunny*

♬This is Sunny, he’s my mom’s♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head at Sunny*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He giggles*

༒︎Cǎluț! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles as Sunny sniffs at Alin*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to pet sunny but frowns when his hand passes right through*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He pouts a little*

༒︎…least you’re alive… being dead sucks.༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Sorry you’re dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin giggles*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Sound like… when Lizzy visits graves! Ack-ard?༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Ohh. Yeah I’m awkward I guess?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Footsteps appear in the grass and Alin’s face lights up*

[totecs-throne]

♬Who’s here-?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Uncle who?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters a few things*

༒︎Sad…kill? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬The one that messed up my hair that one time?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still beaming*

[totecs-throne]

♬Hi evil Tío-er-uncle-whichever side of the family you are…I should tell Abuelita. She’ll want to say hi.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin looks to where the footprints are, tilting his head*

༒︎Nooo! I don’t wanna! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Not home yet! Have friend and… and Sunny! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬And we were gonna see the rest of the animals and play!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at the air as the footsteps approach… then bites at something. Suddenly a humanoid creature appears, not looking all that dissimilar to when Satan tries to look more human, except with sharper teeth and dark stains crawling up his arms and down his horns*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris types something on her phone and Esme just…appears. Still with a half finished skirt in their hands.*

☾Zadkiel!☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel stares disapprovingly at Alin, before looking at Esme, voice a lot steadier than it had been in life*

°Arts and crafts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Yeah…I’m so glad to see you.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a face that looks almost like a grimace*

༒︎Fix your face. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin be nice. Or I’ll have an ostrich chase you☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin sputters indignantly, muttering in Romanian*

°He’s already going to be grounded for a year. No need to add torture.°

[totecs-throne]

☾A year? For what?☾

♬Playing with me while having evil uncle♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°For running off and getting lost. The only reason I was able to find him is because the… uh…groază… was loud about it. °

[totecs-throne]

*Esme huffs a laugh*

☾Well at least he ended up here?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a few noises that have Alin looking torn between laughter and dismay*

°—Even know where here is!°

[totecs-throne]

☾Az’s home. So, somewhere safe at least.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs, running a hand through hair that’s mostly grey*

[totecs-throne]

♬Can’t he stay?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No.°

༒︎But-༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure he can come visit another time, yeah? Just not today☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But ground! ༒︎

°You ran across the entire length of Heaven in the span of two minutes when I looked away from you.°

*Alin huffs*

[totecs-throne]

☾Next time maybe we tell adults where we’re going hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin scowls, mumbling something*

[totecs-throne]

*They huff a laugh, crouching down.*

☾What is it dear?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎He was being gross with other uncle. ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

°You ran off… because my partner and I held hands?°

*Alin huffs, crossing his arms*

[totecs-throne]

☾Scandalous, I say. Next time maybe don’t run away though?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎No, you don’t get it! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alright, could you maybe explain it to me then?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at Esme*

[totecs-throne]

☾You said I don’t get it, and I want to understand. Otherwise I can’t argue in your favor because I won’t get it.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters something in Romanian, to which Zadkiel sighs*

°I was not ignoring you. I looked away for less than a minute.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ah. Your feelings were hurt?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods*

[totecs-throne]

☾I think I get it, kiddo. I don’t like it when I feel ignored either.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He suddenly looks angry*

༒︎Who ignores you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No one in a very long time. Dont you worry about that☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still frowning*

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure that Zadkiel wasn’t trying to ignore you, though.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But he was! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Sometimes grown ups do things that come across in ways we don’t mean. I don’t think he wanted to hurt your feelings, but he did hurt them hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods, seemingly reluctantly*

[totecs-throne]

☾Is there anything we can do to make you feel better?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎you couuuuld… tell me who ignored you? ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

☾And how is that gonna help?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Make me feel better. ༒︎

°You’re not going to torment anyone, Alin, you’re grounded-°

*Alin makes mocking noises and Zadkiel just looks… so done*

[totecs-throne]

☾How about after you’re all done being grounded?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But they’ll all be dead by then! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Nuh uh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Yuh huh because you’re old and I’m gonna be grounded for hundred years! ༒︎

°…Is this because Tom joked you’d be grounded until college last time?°

*Alin nods seriously, and Zadkiel has to cover his mouth as he smiles*

[totecs-throne]

☾Okay yeah I’ll be dead by then but Azriel won’t be. You can pick on them.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Az…el ignore you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No but they ran away from me once when I hit them with a shoe.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

☾I told them ‘You can’t eat all my waffles’ and they did anyways so I took off my shoe and whacked their arm with it and they started running so I had to chase them and I’m way too old to do all that work.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares towards the house, and goes to stomp inside but Zadkiel scoops him up, getting punched and kicked as he did so*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin-don’t attack my precious baby-☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin screeches something in Romanian and Zadkiel rolls his eyes… putting him in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme laughs*

♬…I should have let that one guy kidnap me, then I wouldn’t have to deal with this♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Who tried to kidnap you?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Just some guy.♬

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Does that guy have a name?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Probably did, but I didn’t stop to ask. ♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just stares at him*

♬You know who raised me right? The bitch is dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Azrael didn’t exactly have self-preservation as an infant and I wasn’t allowed near them much after that.°

*He deadpans*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris shrugs*

♬They’re a vibe, I once watched her eat someone’s heart.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*approving nods*

[totecs-throne]

I hear you talking about me out here-

*Azrael comes to a dead halt halfway off the porch when they spot Zadkiel-and faceplant in the mud with their wheelchair landing on top of them.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel rushes over immediately… completely forgetting that he can’t actually help*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme is close behind, helping them back up into the chair*

☾Real smart Az☾

Well I was a tad shocked to see my dead brother-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°My nephew sprinted across heaven because I looked away from him for a second.°

[totecs-throne]

Sounds about right-OW-

*Azrael swats at Elliot, who is hitting him with their shoe*

☾Bad child, no falling while hurt.☾

You’re literally hitting me-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to make a break for it, getting all of two steps before he’s back in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

I was gonna bring Alin home eventually.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No kidding. He’d probably bolt as soon as you got distracted on the way.°

*Alin resumes flailing, trying to hit Zadkiel in any way possible while he seems bored*

[totecs-throne]

Yeah most likely.

♬Mom?♬

Hm?

♬Can I have hot chocolate?♬

Yeah go make some.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin finally goes limp in the air jail*

[totecs-throne]

♬No I want the hot chocolate that you make!♬

It’s the exact same as every other hot chocolate-

♬No it’s not!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel watches in amusement*

[totecs-throne]

Okay, okay. I’ll make hot chocolate when I go inside, deal?

♬Yay!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin mumbles something stroppily and Zadkiel moves him so he’s sat on his hip*

[totecs-throne]

What’s up kiddo?

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°He was saying he wanted some.°

*Zadkiel has the slightest hint of a smile, though it still doesn’t look right*

°Alin has had chocolate a total of once, and I am unfamiliar with hot chocolate myself.°

[totecs-throne]

☾So hot chocolate for you two then?☾

Woah woah woah a first experience with hot chocolate cannot be the monstrosity I make it has to be something that’s actually good-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…You both do realise we are ghosts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ghost hot chocolate.☾

♬That’s a thing?♬

☾I’ll make it a thing☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel continues to seem amused, but Alin perks up*

[totecs-throne]

How are we planning to do that?

☾I’ll either force it into existence myself or I’ll go up to Liz and get down on my knees and beg like a peasant. Duh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel glances towards the cabin, eyebrows furrowed*

[totecs-throne]

Well I don’t think you can just will ghost hot chocolate into existence-

☾Boy where do you think you came from?☾

…uh….the cabbage patch..? A stork? Santa clause? One of those things.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Try Gabriel’s teenage angst.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Somethin like that.☾

Nah cabbage patch sounds better.

♬Wait Auncle Gabriel had sex as a teenager? Does that mean I can have sex when I turn thirteen-♬

No! ☾Absolutely not!☾

*Azrael and Elliot speak in unison*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Not as far as I am aware, I was more referring to them doing… reckless things.°

*Alin tugs on Zadkiel’s shirt*

༒︎What sex? ༒︎

°That is a question for Hope.°

[totecs-throne]

Iris I’m going to kill you

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin laughs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just starts hopping around and Azrael chases her in circles*

♬Nananabooboo you can’t catch me!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°I’m sure they can.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Nuh uh!♬

*Azrael promptly grabs Iris and puts her in air jail*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris detaches her leg to hit Azrael with it.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°You should be nicer to your mother in their old age.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother isn’t here, dumbbutt-♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He stares at Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

I’m Mom. Mom Mama and Mother are separate people.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods slowly, albeit visibly confused*

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother is the strict one, Mom is the normal one, and Mama is the one who lets us do whatever we want.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Right.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mhm mhm. And then there’s Dad. He’s just kinda there. Oh and there’s Leo. He parents us sometimes when he’s bored and homeless♬

…Mother is my older sister Zyana, who helped me raise the kids when I was younger. Mama is my younger sibling Penny, who thinks since everything of mine is theirs that includes the kids.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods along slowly*

[totecs-throne]

In simple terms my kids decided my husband and I weren’t good enough and went off and got three more parents.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Well I haven’t met your current husband, but I don’t think he’d be that bad.°

[totecs-throne]

Well he’s definitely an upgrade from the last one.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Anyone would be, the last one was a cradlerobber.°

[totecs-throne]

Yeah. I stole his children in retaliation.

*Azrael smiles like it’s the most normal sentence in the world*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Good, he didn’t deserve them. Or you.°

[totecs-throne]

Oh he definitely didn’t deserve those precious babies. I don’t even deserve them.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin climbs out of Zadkiel’s grasp, making a run towards the trees. Zadkiel looks to the sky as he mouths something before catching Alin, bringing the boy back over*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin, would you like to know something?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

*An ostrich appears and starts trying to eat Alin*

☾Ostriches eat bad children.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin shrieks and turns invisible*

[totecs-throne]

*the bird just starts biting Azrael instead*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel’s jaw tightens*

[totecs-throne]

Iris, dear, will you put Bolt back in his pen?

*Iris sighs dramatically but does as she’s told, struggling to drag the ostrich back behind the barn*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 6)

༒︎Grounded forever when I go home. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

∰I’m sure you’ll get cut some slack∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin tilts his head, and the gesture is so similar to how Vince does it that Nieko winces*

[totecs-throne]

∰Aza is very good at convincing people to go easy on kids∰

Imma what now?

*Azrael gets through the front door and immediately trades their cane for a wheelchair, taking off their shoes and gloves*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin waves at Azrael, smiling shyly*

[totecs-throne]

Oh hi kiddo, how are you doing? Good I hope?

*Azrael smiles at Alin*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Got lost. Gonna grounded forever. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Oh no. Well I’m sure you won’t be grounded forever, it was an accident after all. How about I help you get back?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Forever and ever. ༒︎

*He pouts, crossing his arms*

❅…You know the way back..? ❅

༒︎Was there! Met momma and uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Yeah I know how to get there. Alin, kiddo, I’ll save you from being grounded forever and ever. Don’t worry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin nods, still pouting*

[totecs-throne]

You wanna head out or wait a minute?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin puts two fingers up, then very slowly tries to poke Elizabeth, who seems completely and entirely unbothered… until his finger actually pokes her, and she jumps away*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael nods and grabs a bottle of soda.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin laughs, delighted, as Elizabeth is suddenly across the room, glaring at him*

[totecs-throne]

Alin, Liz doesn’t like being touched.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Didn’t think… would work? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Understandable. Just for future reference since apparently it did work

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He nods, but doesn’t seem happy about the new rule. Nieko squints at the ghost… resulting in Alin flipping him off*

[totecs-throne]

*Theres a sigh from Azrael. Xipe huffs a laugh.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Was rude first. ༒︎

𖢻Liz doesn’t get freaked out by things she made. Holy shit you’re actually a ghost. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

I think my no swearing rule died at this point

♬Oh it’s long dead♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko winces, muttering an apology to Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

It’s fine I gave up on it

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

*Elizabeth frowns*

[totecs-throne]

No need, you’re all good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko hesitates, but doesn’t say anything more*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris curls up in Azrael’s lap as they start a crochet project*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Is Lavina okay? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Yeah, she’s probably gonna be in trouble when she gets home but she’s safe.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Why? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Parties don’t give her a free pass to drink and smoke, and she somehow forgets that fact half the time.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*slow nod*

[totecs-throne]

∰Za has her though right?∰

Yeah I trust him to keep her alive

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth glances at Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

Has everyone eaten?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I think so? ❅

*Elizabeth seems slightly surprised at how loud her own voice is, even as it still isn’t synced to her mouth*

[totecs-throne]

Mkay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Why were you gone? ❅

[totecs-throne]

One of your cousins got spooked and Vivi got worried and I felt it. When I actually got there, there was no danger. Then after that was settled I had to deal with Vivi being an idiot.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Which one? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Baph.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I have a cousin named Bath?? ❅

[totecs-throne]

B A P H.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Who names their kids that? Does their parents hate them? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Probably, I don’t know.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She frowns a little*

[totecs-throne]

I mean, I have a kid named worm so I can’t say much.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Yeah, but Vince named them. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Fair point.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Wait, did they know Vince named them? Because I learned that- like- yesterday? 𖢻

*Elizabeth shrugs*

[totecs-throne]

I don’t remember if I knew that or not but I’m sure if I did know it’s written down somewhere

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…right. 𖢻

*Elizabeth stares at Nieko*

𖢻I didn’t hit my head that hard, shut up. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael squints at Neiko*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glares at Azrael flatly*

𖢻I don’t have a concussion. Shut up, Liz-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

…you get next week off school just in case.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻If I had a concussion, I would’ve noticed while I was healing myself-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Eh either way you’re still hurt. No school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems somewhere between confused and disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

∰Agreed.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’m fine-𖢻

*both Alin and Elizabeth make a noise of disagreement*

[totecs-throne]

You’re still not going to school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko grumbles*

[totecs-throne]

You’ll appreciate it eventually.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He flops back against the couch, mumbling something that Azrael doesn’t catch… but judging by the glare Elizabeth gives Nieko, she does*

[totecs-throne]

Yknow most kids are happy to skip school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻How? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Basically free vacation.

∰If you’re concerned about the work I’m sure I could run and grab it from your teacher?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He drags a hand down his face*

𖢻Liz’ll get it. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Alright.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth raises an eyebrow*

𖢻It’s fine, I just won’t sleep. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

If you need help with it either Xipe or I could help out.

∰I’m very good at being a teacher. All I need is a cardigan and corny glasses.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

We’ll figure it out

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Hm. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰It’ll be good father son bonding time anyhow∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Or not, if you don’t want my invasion.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I- uh-𖢻

*Nieko’s eye twitches and he turns around to shout at Elizabeth*

𖢻Oh my stars, SHUT UP! 𖢻

*She stares at him with wide eyes*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael winces but doesn’t say anything.*

∰Do you think we could maybe be just a tad quieter?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻You’re telling me to be quieter? She’s been shouting into my skull for the past— since the concussion thing got brought up! 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Okay, okay. Liz, please don’t shout into Nieko’s skull. Neeks, take a breath please.∰

*Azrael sighs and grabs a paper towel to stop their left ear from bleeding.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth looks away from Nieko and every bit of tension drains from him instantly*

[totecs-throne]

∰Thank you Liz. You okay bud?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something entirely unintelligible*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe just sits next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*a drop of blood drips from his head onto the couch*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe immediately looks for the source of the blood*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches away, and suddenly his hair is completely saturated with blood*

[totecs-throne]

∰Can I take a look there buddy?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He slams his hands over his ears*

❅…stop looking at him. ❅

*Her voice is the quietest it’s been since Alin showed up, shaking a little*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe looks away*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*It takes a few seconds for the bleeding to slow to a stop, blood covering his hands and the majority of his face by the time it has*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael wets a towel and rolls over to Nieko, not looking at him as they wipe the blood from his face.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches at the wetness*

[totecs-throne]

*The towel dries in an instant.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Very slowly, he moves out from his defensive position, still covering his ears (like that’d do anything to help his mind-reading) as he takes a very shaky breath*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael just continues wiping away the blood, keeping their gaze on the air next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*His breaths slowly become less shaky*

[totecs-throne]

*They clean as much as they can without moving his hands.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth leaves the room, coming back with a stress ball and putting it on the coffee table in front of Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe offers her a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods to him*

❅Helped last time. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*He nods*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glances at the stress ball, but doesn’t reach for it*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael plants a kiss to his forehead, still keeping their gaze averted*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

You’re okay bud, I love you. It’s okay.

*Azrael pulls Nieko into an ever so gentle hug*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He leans into it*

[totecs-throne]

*They hold him close and rub his back*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

It’s okay Nieko, I’ve got you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he whines wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*They pull him fully into its lap, wrapping around him.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth smiles a little*

[totecs-throne]

I’ve got you Neeks. I love you, and everything is okay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something inaudible*

[totecs-throne]

*They just hold him closer*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko’s chest barely moves with his breaths*

[totecs-throne]

*Very gentle back rubs*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Through his thin shirt, they can feel bandages*

[totecs-throne]

*They frown but say nothing*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅He’s been worse. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*Slow nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅So he’ll be fine. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin fidgets*

[totecs-throne]

♬Wanna see all the animals?♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he nods rapidly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles and heads outside, motioning for Alin to follow*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He follows wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*She stops at the paddock to pet Sunny*

♬This is Sunny, he’s my mom’s♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head at Sunny*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He giggles*

༒︎Cǎluț! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles as Sunny sniffs at Alin*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to pet sunny but frowns when his hand passes right through*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He pouts a little*

༒︎…least you’re alive… being dead sucks.༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Sorry you’re dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin giggles*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Sound like… when Lizzy visits graves! Ack-ard?༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Ohh. Yeah I’m awkward I guess?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Footsteps appear in the grass and Alin’s face lights up*

[totecs-throne]

♬Who’s here-?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Uncle who?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters a few things*

༒︎Sad…kill? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬The one that messed up my hair that one time?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still beaming*

[totecs-throne]

♬Hi evil Tío-er-uncle-whichever side of the family you are…I should tell Abuelita. She’ll want to say hi.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin looks to where the footprints are, tilting his head*

༒︎Nooo! I don’t wanna! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Not home yet! Have friend and… and Sunny! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬And we were gonna see the rest of the animals and play!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at the air as the footsteps approach… then bites at something. Suddenly a humanoid creature appears, not looking all that dissimilar to when Satan tries to look more human, except with sharper teeth and dark stains crawling up his arms and down his horns*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris types something on her phone and Esme just…appears. Still with a half finished skirt in their hands.*

☾Zadkiel!☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel stares disapprovingly at Alin, before looking at Esme, voice a lot steadier than it had been in life*

°Arts and crafts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Yeah…I’m so glad to see you.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a face that looks almost like a grimace*

༒︎Fix your face. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin be nice. Or I’ll have an ostrich chase you☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin sputters indignantly, muttering in Romanian*

°He’s already going to be grounded for a year. No need to add torture.°

[totecs-throne]

☾A year? For what?☾

♬Playing with me while having evil uncle♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°For running off and getting lost. The only reason I was able to find him is because the… uh…groază… was loud about it. °

[totecs-throne]

*Esme huffs a laugh*

☾Well at least he ended up here?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a few noises that have Alin looking torn between laughter and dismay*

°—Even know where here is!°

[totecs-throne]

☾Az’s home. So, somewhere safe at least.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs, running a hand through hair that’s mostly grey*

[totecs-throne]

♬Can’t he stay?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No.°

༒︎But-༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure he can come visit another time, yeah? Just not today☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But ground! ༒︎

°You ran across the entire length of Heaven in the span of two minutes when I looked away from you.°

*Alin huffs*

[totecs-throne]

☾Next time maybe we tell adults where we’re going hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin scowls, mumbling something*

[totecs-throne]

*They huff a laugh, crouching down.*

☾What is it dear?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎He was being gross with other uncle. ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

°You ran off… because my partner and I held hands?°

*Alin huffs, crossing his arms*

[totecs-throne]

☾Scandalous, I say. Next time maybe don’t run away though?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎No, you don’t get it! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alright, could you maybe explain it to me then?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at Esme*

[totecs-throne]

☾You said I don’t get it, and I want to understand. Otherwise I can’t argue in your favor because I won’t get it.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters something in Romanian, to which Zadkiel sighs*

°I was not ignoring you. I looked away for less than a minute.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ah. Your feelings were hurt?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods*

[totecs-throne]

☾I think I get it, kiddo. I don’t like it when I feel ignored either.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He suddenly looks angry*

༒︎Who ignores you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No one in a very long time. Dont you worry about that☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still frowning*

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure that Zadkiel wasn’t trying to ignore you, though.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But he was! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Sometimes grown ups do things that come across in ways we don’t mean. I don’t think he wanted to hurt your feelings, but he did hurt them hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods, seemingly reluctantly*

[totecs-throne]

☾Is there anything we can do to make you feel better?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎you couuuuld… tell me who ignored you? ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

☾And how is that gonna help?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Make me feel better. ༒︎

°You’re not going to torment anyone, Alin, you’re grounded-°

*Alin makes mocking noises and Zadkiel just looks… so done*

[totecs-throne]

☾How about after you’re all done being grounded?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But they’ll all be dead by then! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Nuh uh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Yuh huh because you’re old and I’m gonna be grounded for hundred years! ༒︎

°…Is this because Tom joked you’d be grounded until college last time?°

*Alin nods seriously, and Zadkiel has to cover his mouth as he smiles*

[totecs-throne]

☾Okay yeah I’ll be dead by then but Azriel won’t be. You can pick on them.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Az…el ignore you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No but they ran away from me once when I hit them with a shoe.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

☾I told them ‘You can’t eat all my waffles’ and they did anyways so I took off my shoe and whacked their arm with it and they started running so I had to chase them and I’m way too old to do all that work.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares towards the house, and goes to stomp inside but Zadkiel scoops him up, getting punched and kicked as he did so*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin-don’t attack my precious baby-☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin screeches something in Romanian and Zadkiel rolls his eyes… putting him in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme laughs*

♬…I should have let that one guy kidnap me, then I wouldn’t have to deal with this♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Who tried to kidnap you?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Just some guy.♬

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Does that guy have a name?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Probably did, but I didn’t stop to ask. ♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just stares at him*

♬You know who raised me right? The bitch is dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Azrael didn’t exactly have self-preservation as an infant and I wasn’t allowed near them much after that.°

*He deadpans*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris shrugs*

♬They’re a vibe, I once watched her eat someone’s heart.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*approving nods*

[totecs-throne]

I hear you talking about me out here-

*Azrael comes to a dead halt halfway off the porch when they spot Zadkiel-and faceplant in the mud with their wheelchair landing on top of them.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel rushes over immediately… completely forgetting that he can’t actually help*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme is close behind, helping them back up into the chair*

☾Real smart Az☾

Well I was a tad shocked to see my dead brother-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°My nephew sprinted across heaven because I looked away from him for a second.°

[totecs-throne]

Sounds about right-OW-

*Azrael swats at Elliot, who is hitting him with their shoe*

☾Bad child, no falling while hurt.☾

You’re literally hitting me-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to make a break for it, getting all of two steps before he’s back in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

I was gonna bring Alin home eventually.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No kidding. He’d probably bolt as soon as you got distracted on the way.°

*Alin resumes flailing, trying to hit Zadkiel in any way possible while he seems bored*

[totecs-throne]

Yeah most likely.

♬Mom?♬

Hm?

♬Can I have hot chocolate?♬

Yeah go make some.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin finally goes limp in the air jail*

[totecs-throne]

♬No I want the hot chocolate that you make!♬

It’s the exact same as every other hot chocolate-

♬No it’s not!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel watches in amusement*

[totecs-throne]

Okay, okay. I’ll make hot chocolate when I go inside, deal?

♬Yay!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin mumbles something stroppily and Zadkiel moves him so he’s sat on his hip*

[totecs-throne]

What’s up kiddo?

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°He was saying he wanted some.°

*Zadkiel has the slightest hint of a smile, though it still doesn’t look right*

°Alin has had chocolate a total of once, and I am unfamiliar with hot chocolate myself.°

[totecs-throne]

☾So hot chocolate for you two then?☾

Woah woah woah a first experience with hot chocolate cannot be the monstrosity I make it has to be something that’s actually good-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…You both do realise we are ghosts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ghost hot chocolate.☾

♬That’s a thing?♬

☾I’ll make it a thing☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel continues to seem amused, but Alin perks up*

[totecs-throne]

How are we planning to do that?

☾I’ll either force it into existence myself or I’ll go up to Liz and get down on my knees and beg like a peasant. Duh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel glances towards the cabin, eyebrows furrowed*

[totecs-throne]

Well I don’t think you can just will ghost hot chocolate into existence-

☾Boy where do you think you came from?☾

…uh….the cabbage patch..? A stork? Santa clause? One of those things.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Try Gabriel’s teenage angst.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Somethin like that.☾

Nah cabbage patch sounds better.

♬Wait Auncle Gabriel had sex as a teenager? Does that mean I can have sex when I turn thirteen-♬

No! ☾Absolutely not!☾

*Azrael and Elliot speak in unison*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Not as far as I am aware, I was more referring to them doing… reckless things.°

*Alin tugs on Zadkiel’s shirt*

༒︎What sex? ༒︎

°That is a question for Hope.°

[totecs-throne]

Iris I’m going to kill you

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin laughs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just starts hopping around and Azrael chases her in circles*

♬Nananabooboo you can’t catch me!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°I’m sure they can.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Nuh uh!♬

*Azrael promptly grabs Iris and puts her in air jail*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris detaches her leg to hit Azrael with it.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°You should be nicer to your mother in their old age.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother isn’t here, dumbbutt-♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He stares at Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

I’m Mom. Mom Mama and Mother are separate people.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods slowly, albeit visibly confused*

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother is the strict one, Mom is the normal one, and Mama is the one who lets us do whatever we want.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Right.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mhm mhm. And then there’s Dad. He’s just kinda there. Oh and there’s Leo. He parents us sometimes when he’s bored and homeless♬

…Mother is my older sister Zyana, who helped me raise the kids when I was younger. Mama is my younger sibling Penny, who thinks since everything of mine is theirs that includes the kids.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods along slowly*

[totecs-throne]

In simple terms my kids decided my husband and I weren’t good enough and went off and got three more parents.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Well I haven’t met your current husband, but I don’t think he’d be that bad.°

[totecs-throne]

Well he’s definitely an upgrade from the last one.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Anyone would be, the last one was a cradlerobber.°

[totecs-throne]

Yeah. I stole his children in retaliation.

*Azrael smiles like it’s the most normal sentence in the world*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Good, he didn’t deserve them. Or you.°

[totecs-throne]

Oh he definitely didn’t deserve those precious babies. I don’t even deserve them.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin climbs out of Zadkiel’s grasp, making a run towards the trees. Zadkiel looks to the sky as he mouths something before catching Alin, bringing the boy back over*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin, would you like to know something?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

*An ostrich appears and starts trying to eat Alin*

☾Ostriches eat bad children.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin shrieks and turns invisible*

[totecs-throne]

*the bird just starts biting Azrael instead*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 6)

༒︎Grounded forever when I go home. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

∰I’m sure you’ll get cut some slack∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin tilts his head, and the gesture is so similar to how Vince does it that Nieko winces*

[totecs-throne]

∰Aza is very good at convincing people to go easy on kids∰

Imma what now?

*Azrael gets through the front door and immediately trades their cane for a wheelchair, taking off their shoes and gloves*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin waves at Azrael, smiling shyly*

[totecs-throne]

Oh hi kiddo, how are you doing? Good I hope?

*Azrael smiles at Alin*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Got lost. Gonna grounded forever. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Oh no. Well I’m sure you won’t be grounded forever, it was an accident after all. How about I help you get back?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Forever and ever. ༒︎

*He pouts, crossing his arms*

❅…You know the way back..? ❅

༒︎Was there! Met momma and uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Yeah I know how to get there. Alin, kiddo, I’ll save you from being grounded forever and ever. Don’t worry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin nods, still pouting*

[totecs-throne]

You wanna head out or wait a minute?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin puts two fingers up, then very slowly tries to poke Elizabeth, who seems completely and entirely unbothered… until his finger actually pokes her, and she jumps away*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael nods and grabs a bottle of soda.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin laughs, delighted, as Elizabeth is suddenly across the room, glaring at him*

[totecs-throne]

Alin, Liz doesn’t like being touched.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Didn’t think… would work? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Understandable. Just for future reference since apparently it did work

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He nods, but doesn’t seem happy about the new rule. Nieko squints at the ghost… resulting in Alin flipping him off*

[totecs-throne]

*Theres a sigh from Azrael. Xipe huffs a laugh.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Was rude first. ༒︎

𖢻Liz doesn’t get freaked out by things she made. Holy shit you’re actually a ghost. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

I think my no swearing rule died at this point

♬Oh it’s long dead♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko winces, muttering an apology to Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

It’s fine I gave up on it

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

*Elizabeth frowns*

[totecs-throne]

No need, you’re all good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko hesitates, but doesn’t say anything more*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris curls up in Azrael’s lap as they start a crochet project*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Is Lavina okay? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Yeah, she’s probably gonna be in trouble when she gets home but she’s safe.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Why? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Parties don’t give her a free pass to drink and smoke, and she somehow forgets that fact half the time.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*slow nod*

[totecs-throne]

∰Za has her though right?∰

Yeah I trust him to keep her alive

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth glances at Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

Has everyone eaten?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I think so? ❅

*Elizabeth seems slightly surprised at how loud her own voice is, even as it still isn’t synced to her mouth*

[totecs-throne]

Mkay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Why were you gone? ❅

[totecs-throne]

One of your cousins got spooked and Vivi got worried and I felt it. When I actually got there, there was no danger. Then after that was settled I had to deal with Vivi being an idiot.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Which one? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Baph.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I have a cousin named Bath?? ❅

[totecs-throne]

B A P H.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Who names their kids that? Does their parents hate them? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Probably, I don’t know.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She frowns a little*

[totecs-throne]

I mean, I have a kid named worm so I can’t say much.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Yeah, but Vince named them. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Fair point.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Wait, did they know Vince named them? Because I learned that- like- yesterday? 𖢻

*Elizabeth shrugs*

[totecs-throne]

I don’t remember if I knew that or not but I’m sure if I did know it’s written down somewhere

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…right. 𖢻

*Elizabeth stares at Nieko*

𖢻I didn’t hit my head that hard, shut up. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael squints at Neiko*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glares at Azrael flatly*

𖢻I don’t have a concussion. Shut up, Liz-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

…you get next week off school just in case.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻If I had a concussion, I would’ve noticed while I was healing myself-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Eh either way you’re still hurt. No school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems somewhere between confused and disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

∰Agreed.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’m fine-𖢻

*both Alin and Elizabeth make a noise of disagreement*

[totecs-throne]

You’re still not going to school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko grumbles*

[totecs-throne]

You’ll appreciate it eventually.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He flops back against the couch, mumbling something that Azrael doesn’t catch… but judging by the glare Elizabeth gives Nieko, she does*

[totecs-throne]

Yknow most kids are happy to skip school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻How? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Basically free vacation.

∰If you’re concerned about the work I’m sure I could run and grab it from your teacher?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He drags a hand down his face*

𖢻Liz’ll get it. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Alright.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth raises an eyebrow*

𖢻It’s fine, I just won’t sleep. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

If you need help with it either Xipe or I could help out.

∰I’m very good at being a teacher. All I need is a cardigan and corny glasses.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

We’ll figure it out

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Hm. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰It’ll be good father son bonding time anyhow∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Or not, if you don’t want my invasion.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I- uh-𖢻

*Nieko’s eye twitches and he turns around to shout at Elizabeth*

𖢻Oh my stars, SHUT UP! 𖢻

*She stares at him with wide eyes*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael winces but doesn’t say anything.*

∰Do you think we could maybe be just a tad quieter?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻You’re telling me to be quieter? She’s been shouting into my skull for the past— since the concussion thing got brought up! 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Okay, okay. Liz, please don’t shout into Nieko’s skull. Neeks, take a breath please.∰

*Azrael sighs and grabs a paper towel to stop their left ear from bleeding.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth looks away from Nieko and every bit of tension drains from him instantly*

[totecs-throne]

∰Thank you Liz. You okay bud?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something entirely unintelligible*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe just sits next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*a drop of blood drips from his head onto the couch*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe immediately looks for the source of the blood*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches away, and suddenly his hair is completely saturated with blood*

[totecs-throne]

∰Can I take a look there buddy?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He slams his hands over his ears*

❅…stop looking at him. ❅

*Her voice is the quietest it’s been since Alin showed up, shaking a little*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe looks away*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*It takes a few seconds for the bleeding to slow to a stop, blood covering his hands and the majority of his face by the time it has*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael wets a towel and rolls over to Nieko, not looking at him as they wipe the blood from his face.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches at the wetness*

[totecs-throne]

*The towel dries in an instant.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Very slowly, he moves out from his defensive position, still covering his ears (like that’d do anything to help his mind-reading) as he takes a very shaky breath*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael just continues wiping away the blood, keeping their gaze on the air next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*His breaths slowly become less shaky*

[totecs-throne]

*They clean as much as they can without moving his hands.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth leaves the room, coming back with a stress ball and putting it on the coffee table in front of Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe offers her a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods to him*

❅Helped last time. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*He nods*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glances at the stress ball, but doesn’t reach for it*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael plants a kiss to his forehead, still keeping their gaze averted*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

You’re okay bud, I love you. It’s okay.

*Azrael pulls Nieko into an ever so gentle hug*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He leans into it*

[totecs-throne]

*They hold him close and rub his back*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

It’s okay Nieko, I’ve got you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he whines wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*They pull him fully into its lap, wrapping around him.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth smiles a little*

[totecs-throne]

I’ve got you Neeks. I love you, and everything is okay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something inaudible*

[totecs-throne]

*They just hold him closer*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko’s chest barely moves with his breaths*

[totecs-throne]

*Very gentle back rubs*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Through his thin shirt, they can feel bandages*

[totecs-throne]

*They frown but say nothing*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅He’s been worse. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*Slow nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅So he’ll be fine. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin fidgets*

[totecs-throne]

♬Wanna see all the animals?♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he nods rapidly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles and heads outside, motioning for Alin to follow*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He follows wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*She stops at the paddock to pet Sunny*

♬This is Sunny, he’s my mom’s♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head at Sunny*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He giggles*

༒︎Cǎluț! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles as Sunny sniffs at Alin*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to pet sunny but frowns when his hand passes right through*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He pouts a little*

༒︎…least you’re alive… being dead sucks.༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Sorry you’re dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin giggles*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Sound like… when Lizzy visits graves! Ack-ard?༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Ohh. Yeah I’m awkward I guess?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Footsteps appear in the grass and Alin’s face lights up*

[totecs-throne]

♬Who’s here-?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Uncle who?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters a few things*

༒︎Sad…kill? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬The one that messed up my hair that one time?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still beaming*

[totecs-throne]

♬Hi evil Tío-er-uncle-whichever side of the family you are…I should tell Abuelita. She’ll want to say hi.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin looks to where the footprints are, tilting his head*

༒︎Nooo! I don’t wanna! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Not home yet! Have friend and… and Sunny! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬And we were gonna see the rest of the animals and play!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at the air as the footsteps approach… then bites at something. Suddenly a humanoid creature appears, not looking all that dissimilar to when Satan tries to look more human, except with sharper teeth and dark stains crawling up his arms and down his horns*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris types something on her phone and Esme just…appears. Still with a half finished skirt in their hands.*

☾Zadkiel!☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel stares disapprovingly at Alin, before looking at Esme, voice a lot steadier than it had been in life*

°Arts and crafts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Yeah…I’m so glad to see you.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a face that looks almost like a grimace*

༒︎Fix your face. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin be nice. Or I’ll have an ostrich chase you☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin sputters indignantly, muttering in Romanian*

°He’s already going to be grounded for a year. No need to add torture.°

[totecs-throne]

☾A year? For what?☾

♬Playing with me while having evil uncle♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°For running off and getting lost. The only reason I was able to find him is because the… uh…groază… was loud about it. °

[totecs-throne]

*Esme huffs a laugh*

☾Well at least he ended up here?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a few noises that have Alin looking torn between laughter and dismay*

°—Even know where here is!°

[totecs-throne]

☾Az’s home. So, somewhere safe at least.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs, running a hand through hair that’s mostly grey*

[totecs-throne]

♬Can’t he stay?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No.°

༒︎But-༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure he can come visit another time, yeah? Just not today☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But ground! ༒︎

°You ran across the entire length of Heaven in the span of two minutes when I looked away from you.°

*Alin huffs*

[totecs-throne]

☾Next time maybe we tell adults where we’re going hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin scowls, mumbling something*

[totecs-throne]

*They huff a laugh, crouching down.*

☾What is it dear?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎He was being gross with other uncle. ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

°You ran off… because my partner and I held hands?°

*Alin huffs, crossing his arms*

[totecs-throne]

☾Scandalous, I say. Next time maybe don’t run away though?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎No, you don’t get it! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alright, could you maybe explain it to me then?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at Esme*

[totecs-throne]

☾You said I don’t get it, and I want to understand. Otherwise I can’t argue in your favor because I won’t get it.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters something in Romanian, to which Zadkiel sighs*

°I was not ignoring you. I looked away for less than a minute.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ah. Your feelings were hurt?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods*

[totecs-throne]

☾I think I get it, kiddo. I don’t like it when I feel ignored either.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He suddenly looks angry*

༒︎Who ignores you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No one in a very long time. Dont you worry about that☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still frowning*

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure that Zadkiel wasn’t trying to ignore you, though.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But he was! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Sometimes grown ups do things that come across in ways we don’t mean. I don’t think he wanted to hurt your feelings, but he did hurt them hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods, seemingly reluctantly*

[totecs-throne]

☾Is there anything we can do to make you feel better?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎you couuuuld… tell me who ignored you? ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

☾And how is that gonna help?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Make me feel better. ༒︎

°You’re not going to torment anyone, Alin, you’re grounded-°

*Alin makes mocking noises and Zadkiel just looks… so done*

[totecs-throne]

☾How about after you’re all done being grounded?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But they’ll all be dead by then! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Nuh uh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Yuh huh because you’re old and I’m gonna be grounded for hundred years! ༒︎

°…Is this because Tom joked you’d be grounded until college last time?°

*Alin nods seriously, and Zadkiel has to cover his mouth as he smiles*

[totecs-throne]

☾Okay yeah I’ll be dead by then but Azriel won’t be. You can pick on them.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Az…el ignore you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No but they ran away from me once when I hit them with a shoe.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

☾I told them ‘You can’t eat all my waffles’ and they did anyways so I took off my shoe and whacked their arm with it and they started running so I had to chase them and I’m way too old to do all that work.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares towards the house, and goes to stomp inside but Zadkiel scoops him up, getting punched and kicked as he did so*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin-don’t attack my precious baby-☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin screeches something in Romanian and Zadkiel rolls his eyes… putting him in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme laughs*

♬…I should have let that one guy kidnap me, then I wouldn’t have to deal with this♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Who tried to kidnap you?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Just some guy.♬

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Does that guy have a name?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Probably did, but I didn’t stop to ask. ♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just stares at him*

♬You know who raised me right? The bitch is dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Azrael didn’t exactly have self-preservation as an infant and I wasn’t allowed near them much after that.°

*He deadpans*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris shrugs*

♬They’re a vibe, I once watched her eat someone’s heart.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*approving nods*

[totecs-throne]

I hear you talking about me out here-

*Azrael comes to a dead halt halfway off the porch when they spot Zadkiel-and faceplant in the mud with their wheelchair landing on top of them.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel rushes over immediately… completely forgetting that he can’t actually help*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme is close behind, helping them back up into the chair*

☾Real smart Az☾

Well I was a tad shocked to see my dead brother-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°My nephew sprinted across heaven because I looked away from him for a second.°

[totecs-throne]

Sounds about right-OW-

*Azrael swats at Elliot, who is hitting him with their shoe*

☾Bad child, no falling while hurt.☾

You’re literally hitting me-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to make a break for it, getting all of two steps before he’s back in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

I was gonna bring Alin home eventually.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No kidding. He’d probably bolt as soon as you got distracted on the way.°

*Alin resumes flailing, trying to hit Zadkiel in any way possible while he seems bored*

[totecs-throne]

Yeah most likely.

♬Mom?♬

Hm?

♬Can I have hot chocolate?♬

Yeah go make some.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin finally goes limp in the air jail*

[totecs-throne]

♬No I want the hot chocolate that you make!♬

It’s the exact same as every other hot chocolate-

♬No it’s not!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel watches in amusement*

[totecs-throne]

Okay, okay. I’ll make hot chocolate when I go inside, deal?

♬Yay!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin mumbles something stroppily and Zadkiel moves him so he’s sat on his hip*

[totecs-throne]

What’s up kiddo?

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°He was saying he wanted some.°

*Zadkiel has the slightest hint of a smile, though it still doesn’t look right*

°Alin has had chocolate a total of once, and I am unfamiliar with hot chocolate myself.°

[totecs-throne]

☾So hot chocolate for you two then?☾

Woah woah woah a first experience with hot chocolate cannot be the monstrosity I make it has to be something that’s actually good-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…You both do realise we are ghosts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ghost hot chocolate.☾

♬That’s a thing?♬

☾I’ll make it a thing☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel continues to seem amused, but Alin perks up*

[totecs-throne]

How are we planning to do that?

☾I’ll either force it into existence myself or I’ll go up to Liz and get down on my knees and beg like a peasant. Duh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel glances towards the cabin, eyebrows furrowed*

[totecs-throne]

Well I don’t think you can just will ghost hot chocolate into existence-

☾Boy where do you think you came from?☾

…uh….the cabbage patch..? A stork? Santa clause? One of those things.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Try Gabriel’s teenage angst.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Somethin like that.☾

Nah cabbage patch sounds better.

♬Wait Auncle Gabriel had sex as a teenager? Does that mean I can have sex when I turn thirteen-♬

No! ☾Absolutely not!☾

*Azrael and Elliot speak in unison*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Not as far as I am aware, I was more referring to them doing… reckless things.°

*Alin tugs on Zadkiel’s shirt*

༒︎What sex? ༒︎

°That is a question for Hope.°

[totecs-throne]

Iris I’m going to kill you

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin laughs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just starts hopping around and Azrael chases her in circles*

♬Nananabooboo you can’t catch me!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°I’m sure they can.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Nuh uh!♬

*Azrael promptly grabs Iris and puts her in air jail*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris detaches her leg to hit Azrael with it.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°You should be nicer to your mother in their old age.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother isn’t here, dumbbutt-♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He stares at Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

I’m Mom. Mom Mama and Mother are separate people.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods slowly, albeit visibly confused*

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother is the strict one, Mom is the normal one, and Mama is the one who lets us do whatever we want.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Right.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mhm mhm. And then there’s Dad. He’s just kinda there. Oh and there’s Leo. He parents us sometimes when he’s bored and homeless♬

…Mother is my older sister Zyana, who helped me raise the kids when I was younger. Mama is my younger sibling Penny, who thinks since everything of mine is theirs that includes the kids.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods along slowly*

[totecs-throne]

In simple terms my kids decided my husband and I weren’t good enough and went off and got three more parents.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Well I haven’t met your current husband, but I don’t think he’d be that bad.°

[totecs-throne]

Well he’s definitely an upgrade from the last one.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Anyone would be, the last one was a cradlerobber.°

[totecs-throne]

Yeah. I stole his children in retaliation.

*Azrael smiles like it’s the most normal sentence in the world*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Good, he didn’t deserve them. Or you.°

[totecs-throne]

Oh he definitely didn’t deserve those precious babies. I don’t even deserve them.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin climbs out of Zadkiel’s grasp, making a run towards the trees. Zadkiel looks to the sky as he mouths something before catching Alin, bringing the boy back over*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin, would you like to know something?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

*An ostrich appears and starts trying to eat Alin*

☾Ostriches eat bad children.☾

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 6)

༒︎Grounded forever when I go home. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

∰I’m sure you’ll get cut some slack∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin tilts his head, and the gesture is so similar to how Vince does it that Nieko winces*

[totecs-throne]

∰Aza is very good at convincing people to go easy on kids∰

Imma what now?

*Azrael gets through the front door and immediately trades their cane for a wheelchair, taking off their shoes and gloves*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin waves at Azrael, smiling shyly*

[totecs-throne]

Oh hi kiddo, how are you doing? Good I hope?

*Azrael smiles at Alin*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Got lost. Gonna grounded forever. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Oh no. Well I’m sure you won’t be grounded forever, it was an accident after all. How about I help you get back?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Forever and ever. ༒︎

*He pouts, crossing his arms*

❅…You know the way back..? ❅

༒︎Was there! Met momma and uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Yeah I know how to get there. Alin, kiddo, I’ll save you from being grounded forever and ever. Don’t worry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin nods, still pouting*

[totecs-throne]

You wanna head out or wait a minute?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin puts two fingers up, then very slowly tries to poke Elizabeth, who seems completely and entirely unbothered… until his finger actually pokes her, and she jumps away*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael nods and grabs a bottle of soda.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin laughs, delighted, as Elizabeth is suddenly across the room, glaring at him*

[totecs-throne]

Alin, Liz doesn’t like being touched.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Didn’t think… would work? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Understandable. Just for future reference since apparently it did work

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He nods, but doesn’t seem happy about the new rule. Nieko squints at the ghost… resulting in Alin flipping him off*

[totecs-throne]

*Theres a sigh from Azrael. Xipe huffs a laugh.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Was rude first. ༒︎

𖢻Liz doesn’t get freaked out by things she made. Holy shit you’re actually a ghost. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

I think my no swearing rule died at this point

♬Oh it’s long dead♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko winces, muttering an apology to Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

It’s fine I gave up on it

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

*Elizabeth frowns*

[totecs-throne]

No need, you’re all good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko hesitates, but doesn’t say anything more*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris curls up in Azrael’s lap as they start a crochet project*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Is Lavina okay? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Yeah, she’s probably gonna be in trouble when she gets home but she’s safe.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Why? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Parties don’t give her a free pass to drink and smoke, and she somehow forgets that fact half the time.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*slow nod*

[totecs-throne]

∰Za has her though right?∰

Yeah I trust him to keep her alive

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth glances at Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

Has everyone eaten?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I think so? ❅

*Elizabeth seems slightly surprised at how loud her own voice is, even as it still isn’t synced to her mouth*

[totecs-throne]

Mkay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Why were you gone? ❅

[totecs-throne]

One of your cousins got spooked and Vivi got worried and I felt it. When I actually got there, there was no danger. Then after that was settled I had to deal with Vivi being an idiot.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Which one? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Baph.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I have a cousin named Bath?? ❅

[totecs-throne]

B A P H.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Who names their kids that? Does their parents hate them? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Probably, I don’t know.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She frowns a little*

[totecs-throne]

I mean, I have a kid named worm so I can’t say much.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Yeah, but Vince named them. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Fair point.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Wait, did they know Vince named them? Because I learned that- like- yesterday? 𖢻

*Elizabeth shrugs*

[totecs-throne]

I don’t remember if I knew that or not but I’m sure if I did know it’s written down somewhere

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…right. 𖢻

*Elizabeth stares at Nieko*

𖢻I didn’t hit my head that hard, shut up. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael squints at Neiko*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glares at Azrael flatly*

𖢻I don’t have a concussion. Shut up, Liz-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

…you get next week off school just in case.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻If I had a concussion, I would’ve noticed while I was healing myself-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Eh either way you’re still hurt. No school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems somewhere between confused and disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

∰Agreed.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’m fine-𖢻

*both Alin and Elizabeth make a noise of disagreement*

[totecs-throne]

You’re still not going to school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko grumbles*

[totecs-throne]

You’ll appreciate it eventually.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He flops back against the couch, mumbling something that Azrael doesn’t catch… but judging by the glare Elizabeth gives Nieko, she does*

[totecs-throne]

Yknow most kids are happy to skip school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻How? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Basically free vacation.

∰If you’re concerned about the work I’m sure I could run and grab it from your teacher?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He drags a hand down his face*

𖢻Liz’ll get it. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Alright.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth raises an eyebrow*

𖢻It’s fine, I just won’t sleep. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

If you need help with it either Xipe or I could help out.

∰I’m very good at being a teacher. All I need is a cardigan and corny glasses.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

We’ll figure it out

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Hm. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰It’ll be good father son bonding time anyhow∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Or not, if you don’t want my invasion.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I- uh-𖢻

*Nieko’s eye twitches and he turns around to shout at Elizabeth*

𖢻Oh my stars, SHUT UP! 𖢻

*She stares at him with wide eyes*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael winces but doesn’t say anything.*

∰Do you think we could maybe be just a tad quieter?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻You’re telling me to be quieter? She’s been shouting into my skull for the past— since the concussion thing got brought up! 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Okay, okay. Liz, please don’t shout into Nieko’s skull. Neeks, take a breath please.∰

*Azrael sighs and grabs a paper towel to stop their left ear from bleeding.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth looks away from Nieko and every bit of tension drains from him instantly*

[totecs-throne]

∰Thank you Liz. You okay bud?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something entirely unintelligible*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe just sits next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*a drop of blood drips from his head onto the couch*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe immediately looks for the source of the blood*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches away, and suddenly his hair is completely saturated with blood*

[totecs-throne]

∰Can I take a look there buddy?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He slams his hands over his ears*

❅…stop looking at him. ❅

*Her voice is the quietest it’s been since Alin showed up, shaking a little*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe looks away*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*It takes a few seconds for the bleeding to slow to a stop, blood covering his hands and the majority of his face by the time it has*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael wets a towel and rolls over to Nieko, not looking at him as they wipe the blood from his face.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches at the wetness*

[totecs-throne]

*The towel dries in an instant.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Very slowly, he moves out from his defensive position, still covering his ears (like that’d do anything to help his mind-reading) as he takes a very shaky breath*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael just continues wiping away the blood, keeping their gaze on the air next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*His breaths slowly become less shaky*

[totecs-throne]

*They clean as much as they can without moving his hands.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth leaves the room, coming back with a stress ball and putting it on the coffee table in front of Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe offers her a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods to him*

❅Helped last time. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*He nods*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glances at the stress ball, but doesn’t reach for it*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael plants a kiss to his forehead, still keeping their gaze averted*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

You’re okay bud, I love you. It’s okay.

*Azrael pulls Nieko into an ever so gentle hug*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He leans into it*

[totecs-throne]

*They hold him close and rub his back*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

It’s okay Nieko, I’ve got you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he whines wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*They pull him fully into its lap, wrapping around him.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth smiles a little*

[totecs-throne]

I’ve got you Neeks. I love you, and everything is okay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something inaudible*

[totecs-throne]

*They just hold him closer*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko’s chest barely moves with his breaths*

[totecs-throne]

*Very gentle back rubs*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Through his thin shirt, they can feel bandages*

[totecs-throne]

*They frown but say nothing*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅He’s been worse. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*Slow nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅So he’ll be fine. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin fidgets*

[totecs-throne]

♬Wanna see all the animals?♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he nods rapidly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles and heads outside, motioning for Alin to follow*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He follows wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*She stops at the paddock to pet Sunny*

♬This is Sunny, he’s my mom’s♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head at Sunny*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He giggles*

༒︎Cǎluț! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles as Sunny sniffs at Alin*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to pet sunny but frowns when his hand passes right through*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He pouts a little*

༒︎…least you’re alive… being dead sucks.༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Sorry you’re dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin giggles*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Sound like… when Lizzy visits graves! Ack-ard?༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Ohh. Yeah I’m awkward I guess?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Footsteps appear in the grass and Alin’s face lights up*

[totecs-throne]

♬Who’s here-?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Uncle who?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters a few things*

༒︎Sad…kill? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬The one that messed up my hair that one time?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still beaming*

[totecs-throne]

♬Hi evil Tío-er-uncle-whichever side of the family you are…I should tell Abuelita. She’ll want to say hi.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin looks to where the footprints are, tilting his head*

༒︎Nooo! I don’t wanna! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Not home yet! Have friend and… and Sunny! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬And we were gonna see the rest of the animals and play!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at the air as the footsteps approach… then bites at something. Suddenly a humanoid creature appears, not looking all that dissimilar to when Satan tries to look more human, except with sharper teeth and dark stains crawling up his arms and down his horns*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris types something on her phone and Esme just…appears. Still with a half finished skirt in their hands.*

☾Zadkiel!☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel stares disapprovingly at Alin, before looking at Esme, voice a lot steadier than it had been in life*

°Arts and crafts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Yeah…I’m so glad to see you.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a face that looks almost like a grimace*

༒︎Fix your face. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin be nice. Or I’ll have an ostrich chase you☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin sputters indignantly, muttering in Romanian*

°He’s already going to be grounded for a year. No need to add torture.°

[totecs-throne]

☾A year? For what?☾

♬Playing with me while having evil uncle♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°For running off and getting lost. The only reason I was able to find him is because the… uh…groază… was loud about it. °

[totecs-throne]

*Esme huffs a laugh*

☾Well at least he ended up here?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a few noises that have Alin looking torn between laughter and dismay*

°—Even know where here is!°

[totecs-throne]

☾Az’s home. So, somewhere safe at least.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs, running a hand through hair that’s mostly grey*

[totecs-throne]

♬Can’t he stay?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No.°

༒︎But-༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure he can come visit another time, yeah? Just not today☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But ground! ༒︎

°You ran across the entire length of Heaven in the span of two minutes when I looked away from you.°

*Alin huffs*

[totecs-throne]

☾Next time maybe we tell adults where we’re going hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin scowls, mumbling something*

[totecs-throne]

*They huff a laugh, crouching down.*

☾What is it dear?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎He was being gross with other uncle. ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

°You ran off… because my partner and I held hands?°

*Alin huffs, crossing his arms*

[totecs-throne]

☾Scandalous, I say. Next time maybe don’t run away though?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎No, you don’t get it! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alright, could you maybe explain it to me then?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at Esme*

[totecs-throne]

☾You said I don’t get it, and I want to understand. Otherwise I can’t argue in your favor because I won’t get it.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters something in Romanian, to which Zadkiel sighs*

°I was not ignoring you. I looked away for less than a minute.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ah. Your feelings were hurt?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods*

[totecs-throne]

☾I think I get it, kiddo. I don’t like it when I feel ignored either.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He suddenly looks angry*

༒︎Who ignores you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No one in a very long time. Dont you worry about that☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still frowning*

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure that Zadkiel wasn’t trying to ignore you, though.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But he was! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Sometimes grown ups do things that come across in ways we don’t mean. I don’t think he wanted to hurt your feelings, but he did hurt them hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods, seemingly reluctantly*

[totecs-throne]

☾Is there anything we can do to make you feel better?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎you couuuuld… tell me who ignored you? ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

☾And how is that gonna help?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Make me feel better. ༒︎

°You’re not going to torment anyone, Alin, you’re grounded-°

*Alin makes mocking noises and Zadkiel just looks… so done*

[totecs-throne]

☾How about after you’re all done being grounded?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But they’ll all be dead by then! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Nuh uh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Yuh huh because you’re old and I’m gonna be grounded for hundred years! ༒︎

°…Is this because Tom joked you’d be grounded until college last time?°

*Alin nods seriously, and Zadkiel has to cover his mouth as he smiles*

[totecs-throne]

☾Okay yeah I’ll be dead by then but Azriel won’t be. You can pick on them.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Az…el ignore you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No but they ran away from me once when I hit them with a shoe.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

☾I told them ‘You can’t eat all my waffles’ and they did anyways so I took off my shoe and whacked their arm with it and they started running so I had to chase them and I’m way too old to do all that work.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares towards the house, and goes to stomp inside but Zadkiel scoops him up, getting punched and kicked as he did so*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin-don’t attack my precious baby-☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin screeches something in Romanian and Zadkiel rolls his eyes… putting him in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme laughs*

♬…I should have let that one guy kidnap me, then I wouldn’t have to deal with this♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Who tried to kidnap you?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Just some guy.♬

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Does that guy have a name?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Probably did, but I didn’t stop to ask. ♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just stares at him*

♬You know who raised me right? The bitch is dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Azrael didn’t exactly have self-preservation as an infant and I wasn’t allowed near them much after that.°

*He deadpans*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris shrugs*

♬They’re a vibe, I once watched her eat someone’s heart.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*approving nods*

[totecs-throne]

I hear you talking about me out here-

*Azrael comes to a dead halt halfway off the porch when they spot Zadkiel-and faceplant in the mud with their wheelchair landing on top of them.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel rushes over immediately… completely forgetting that he can’t actually help*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme is close behind, helping them back up into the chair*

☾Real smart Az☾

Well I was a tad shocked to see my dead brother-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°My nephew sprinted across heaven because I looked away from him for a second.°

[totecs-throne]

Sounds about right-OW-

*Azrael swats at Elliot, who is hitting him with their shoe*

☾Bad child, no falling while hurt.☾

You’re literally hitting me-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to make a break for it, getting all of two steps before he’s back in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

I was gonna bring Alin home eventually.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No kidding. He’d probably bolt as soon as you got distracted on the way.°

*Alin resumes flailing, trying to hit Zadkiel in any way possible while he seems bored*

[totecs-throne]

Yeah most likely.

♬Mom?♬

Hm?

♬Can I have hot chocolate?♬

Yeah go make some.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin finally goes limp in the air jail*

[totecs-throne]

♬No I want the hot chocolate that you make!♬

It’s the exact same as every other hot chocolate-

♬No it’s not!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel watches in amusement*

[totecs-throne]

Okay, okay. I’ll make hot chocolate when I go inside, deal?

♬Yay!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin mumbles something stroppily and Zadkiel moves him so he’s sat on his hip*

[totecs-throne]

What’s up kiddo?

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°He was saying he wanted some.°

*Zadkiel has the slightest hint of a smile, though it still doesn’t look right*

°Alin has had chocolate a total of once, and I am unfamiliar with hot chocolate myself.°

[totecs-throne]

☾So hot chocolate for you two then?☾

Woah woah woah a first experience with hot chocolate cannot be the monstrosity I make it has to be something that’s actually good-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…You both do realise we are ghosts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ghost hot chocolate.☾

♬That’s a thing?♬

☾I’ll make it a thing☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel continues to seem amused, but Alin perks up*

[totecs-throne]

How are we planning to do that?

☾I’ll either force it into existence myself or I’ll go up to Liz and get down on my knees and beg like a peasant. Duh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel glances towards the cabin, eyebrows furrowed*

[totecs-throne]

Well I don’t think you can just will ghost hot chocolate into existence-

☾Boy where do you think you came from?☾

…uh….the cabbage patch..? A stork? Santa clause? One of those things.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Try Gabriel’s teenage angst.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Somethin like that.☾

Nah cabbage patch sounds better.

♬Wait Auncle Gabriel had sex as a teenager? Does that mean I can have sex when I turn thirteen-♬

No! ☾Absolutely not!☾

*Azrael and Elliot speak in unison*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Not as far as I am aware, I was more referring to them doing… reckless things.°

*Alin tugs on Zadkiel’s shirt*

༒︎What sex? ༒︎

°That is a question for Hope.°

[totecs-throne]

Iris I’m going to kill you

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin laughs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just starts hopping around and Azrael chases her in circles*

♬Nananabooboo you can’t catch me!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°I’m sure they can.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Nuh uh!♬

*Azrael promptly grabs Iris and puts her in air jail*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris detaches her leg to hit Azrael with it.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°You should be nicer to your mother in their old age.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother isn’t here, dumbbutt-♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He stares at Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

I’m Mom. Mom Mama and Mother are separate people.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods slowly, albeit visibly confused*

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother is the strict one, Mom is the normal one, and Mama is the one who lets us do whatever we want.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Right.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mhm mhm. And then there’s Dad. He’s just kinda there. Oh and there’s Leo. He parents us sometimes when he’s bored and homeless♬

…Mother is my older sister Zyana, who helped me raise the kids when I was younger. Mama is my younger sibling Penny, who thinks since everything of mine is theirs that includes the kids.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods along slowly*

[totecs-throne]

In simple terms my kids decided my husband and I weren’t good enough and went off and got three more parents.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Well I haven’t met your current husband, but I don’t think he’d be that bad.°

[totecs-throne]

Well he’s definitely an upgrade from the last one.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Anyone would be, the last one was a cradlerobber.°

[totecs-throne]

Yeah. I stole his children in retaliation.

*Azrael smiles like it’s the most normal sentence in the world*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Good, he didn’t deserve them. Or you.°

[totecs-throne]

Oh he definitely didn’t deserve those precious babies. I don’t even deserve them.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin climbs out of Zadkiel’s grasp, making a run towards the trees. Zadkiel looks to the sky as he mouths something before catching Alin, bringing the boy back over*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin, would you like to know something?☾

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 6)

༒︎Grounded forever when I go home. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

∰I’m sure you’ll get cut some slack∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin tilts his head, and the gesture is so similar to how Vince does it that Nieko winces*

[totecs-throne]

∰Aza is very good at convincing people to go easy on kids∰

Imma what now?

*Azrael gets through the front door and immediately trades their cane for a wheelchair, taking off their shoes and gloves*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin waves at Azrael, smiling shyly*

[totecs-throne]

Oh hi kiddo, how are you doing? Good I hope?

*Azrael smiles at Alin*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Got lost. Gonna grounded forever. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Oh no. Well I’m sure you won’t be grounded forever, it was an accident after all. How about I help you get back?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Forever and ever. ༒︎

*He pouts, crossing his arms*

❅…You know the way back..? ❅

༒︎Was there! Met momma and uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Yeah I know how to get there. Alin, kiddo, I’ll save you from being grounded forever and ever. Don’t worry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin nods, still pouting*

[totecs-throne]

You wanna head out or wait a minute?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin puts two fingers up, then very slowly tries to poke Elizabeth, who seems completely and entirely unbothered… until his finger actually pokes her, and she jumps away*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael nods and grabs a bottle of soda.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin laughs, delighted, as Elizabeth is suddenly across the room, glaring at him*

[totecs-throne]

Alin, Liz doesn’t like being touched.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Didn’t think… would work? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Understandable. Just for future reference since apparently it did work

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He nods, but doesn’t seem happy about the new rule. Nieko squints at the ghost… resulting in Alin flipping him off*

[totecs-throne]

*Theres a sigh from Azrael. Xipe huffs a laugh.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Was rude first. ༒︎

𖢻Liz doesn’t get freaked out by things she made. Holy shit you’re actually a ghost. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

I think my no swearing rule died at this point

♬Oh it’s long dead♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko winces, muttering an apology to Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

It’s fine I gave up on it

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

*Elizabeth frowns*

[totecs-throne]

No need, you’re all good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko hesitates, but doesn’t say anything more*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris curls up in Azrael’s lap as they start a crochet project*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Is Lavina okay? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Yeah, she’s probably gonna be in trouble when she gets home but she’s safe.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Why? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Parties don’t give her a free pass to drink and smoke, and she somehow forgets that fact half the time.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*slow nod*

[totecs-throne]

∰Za has her though right?∰

Yeah I trust him to keep her alive

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth glances at Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

Has everyone eaten?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I think so? ❅

*Elizabeth seems slightly surprised at how loud her own voice is, even as it still isn’t synced to her mouth*

[totecs-throne]

Mkay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Why were you gone? ❅

[totecs-throne]

One of your cousins got spooked and Vivi got worried and I felt it. When I actually got there, there was no danger. Then after that was settled I had to deal with Vivi being an idiot.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Which one? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Baph.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I have a cousin named Bath?? ❅

[totecs-throne]

B A P H.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Who names their kids that? Does their parents hate them? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Probably, I don’t know.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She frowns a little*

[totecs-throne]

I mean, I have a kid named worm so I can’t say much.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Yeah, but Vince named them. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Fair point.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Wait, did they know Vince named them? Because I learned that- like- yesterday? 𖢻

*Elizabeth shrugs*

[totecs-throne]

I don’t remember if I knew that or not but I’m sure if I did know it’s written down somewhere

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…right. 𖢻

*Elizabeth stares at Nieko*

𖢻I didn’t hit my head that hard, shut up. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael squints at Neiko*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glares at Azrael flatly*

𖢻I don’t have a concussion. Shut up, Liz-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

…you get next week off school just in case.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻If I had a concussion, I would’ve noticed while I was healing myself-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Eh either way you’re still hurt. No school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems somewhere between confused and disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

∰Agreed.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’m fine-𖢻

*both Alin and Elizabeth make a noise of disagreement*

[totecs-throne]

You’re still not going to school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko grumbles*

[totecs-throne]

You’ll appreciate it eventually.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He flops back against the couch, mumbling something that Azrael doesn’t catch… but judging by the glare Elizabeth gives Nieko, she does*

[totecs-throne]

Yknow most kids are happy to skip school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻How? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Basically free vacation.

∰If you’re concerned about the work I’m sure I could run and grab it from your teacher?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He drags a hand down his face*

𖢻Liz’ll get it. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Alright.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth raises an eyebrow*

𖢻It’s fine, I just won’t sleep. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

If you need help with it either Xipe or I could help out.

∰I’m very good at being a teacher. All I need is a cardigan and corny glasses.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

We’ll figure it out

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Hm. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰It’ll be good father son bonding time anyhow∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Or not, if you don’t want my invasion.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I- uh-𖢻

*Nieko’s eye twitches and he turns around to shout at Elizabeth*

𖢻Oh my stars, SHUT UP! 𖢻

*She stares at him with wide eyes*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael winces but doesn’t say anything.*

∰Do you think we could maybe be just a tad quieter?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻You’re telling me to be quieter? She’s been shouting into my skull for the past— since the concussion thing got brought up! 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Okay, okay. Liz, please don’t shout into Nieko’s skull. Neeks, take a breath please.∰

*Azrael sighs and grabs a paper towel to stop their left ear from bleeding.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth looks away from Nieko and every bit of tension drains from him instantly*

[totecs-throne]

∰Thank you Liz. You okay bud?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something entirely unintelligible*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe just sits next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*a drop of blood drips from his head onto the couch*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe immediately looks for the source of the blood*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches away, and suddenly his hair is completely saturated with blood*

[totecs-throne]

∰Can I take a look there buddy?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He slams his hands over his ears*

❅…stop looking at him. ❅

*Her voice is the quietest it’s been since Alin showed up, shaking a little*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe looks away*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*It takes a few seconds for the bleeding to slow to a stop, blood covering his hands and the majority of his face by the time it has*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael wets a towel and rolls over to Nieko, not looking at him as they wipe the blood from his face.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches at the wetness*

[totecs-throne]

*The towel dries in an instant.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Very slowly, he moves out from his defensive position, still covering his ears (like that’d do anything to help his mind-reading) as he takes a very shaky breath*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael just continues wiping away the blood, keeping their gaze on the air next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*His breaths slowly become less shaky*

[totecs-throne]

*They clean as much as they can without moving his hands.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth leaves the room, coming back with a stress ball and putting it on the coffee table in front of Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe offers her a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods to him*

❅Helped last time. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*He nods*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glances at the stress ball, but doesn’t reach for it*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael plants a kiss to his forehead, still keeping their gaze averted*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

You’re okay bud, I love you. It’s okay.

*Azrael pulls Nieko into an ever so gentle hug*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He leans into it*

[totecs-throne]

*They hold him close and rub his back*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

It’s okay Nieko, I’ve got you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he whines wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*They pull him fully into its lap, wrapping around him.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth smiles a little*

[totecs-throne]

I’ve got you Neeks. I love you, and everything is okay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something inaudible*

[totecs-throne]

*They just hold him closer*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko’s chest barely moves with his breaths*

[totecs-throne]

*Very gentle back rubs*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Through his thin shirt, they can feel bandages*

[totecs-throne]

*They frown but say nothing*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅He’s been worse. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*Slow nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅So he’ll be fine. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin fidgets*

[totecs-throne]

♬Wanna see all the animals?♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he nods rapidly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles and heads outside, motioning for Alin to follow*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He follows wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*She stops at the paddock to pet Sunny*

♬This is Sunny, he’s my mom’s♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head at Sunny*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He giggles*

༒︎Cǎluț! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles as Sunny sniffs at Alin*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to pet sunny but frowns when his hand passes right through*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He pouts a little*

༒︎…least you’re alive… being dead sucks.༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Sorry you’re dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin giggles*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Sound like… when Lizzy visits graves! Ack-ard?༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Ohh. Yeah I’m awkward I guess?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Footsteps appear in the grass and Alin’s face lights up*

[totecs-throne]

♬Who’s here-?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Uncle who?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters a few things*

༒︎Sad…kill? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬The one that messed up my hair that one time?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still beaming*

[totecs-throne]

♬Hi evil Tío-er-uncle-whichever side of the family you are…I should tell Abuelita. She’ll want to say hi.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin looks to where the footprints are, tilting his head*

༒︎Nooo! I don’t wanna! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Not home yet! Have friend and… and Sunny! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬And we were gonna see the rest of the animals and play!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at the air as the footsteps approach… then bites at something. Suddenly a humanoid creature appears, not looking all that dissimilar to when Satan tries to look more human, except with sharper teeth and dark stains crawling up his arms and down his horns*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris types something on her phone and Esme just…appears. Still with a half finished skirt in their hands.*

☾Zadkiel!☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel stares disapprovingly at Alin, before looking at Esme, voice a lot steadier than it had been in life*

°Arts and crafts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Yeah…I’m so glad to see you.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a face that looks almost like a grimace*

༒︎Fix your face. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin be nice. Or I’ll have an ostrich chase you☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin sputters indignantly, muttering in Romanian*

°He’s already going to be grounded for a year. No need to add torture.°

[totecs-throne]

☾A year? For what?☾

♬Playing with me while having evil uncle♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°For running off and getting lost. The only reason I was able to find him is because the… uh…groază… was loud about it. °

[totecs-throne]

*Esme huffs a laugh*

☾Well at least he ended up here?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a few noises that have Alin looking torn between laughter and dismay*

°—Even know where here is!°

[totecs-throne]

☾Az’s home. So, somewhere safe at least.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs, running a hand through hair that’s mostly grey*

[totecs-throne]

♬Can’t he stay?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No.°

༒︎But-༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure he can come visit another time, yeah? Just not today☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But ground! ༒︎

°You ran across the entire length of Heaven in the span of two minutes when I looked away from you.°

*Alin huffs*

[totecs-throne]

☾Next time maybe we tell adults where we’re going hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin scowls, mumbling something*

[totecs-throne]

*They huff a laugh, crouching down.*

☾What is it dear?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎He was being gross with other uncle. ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

°You ran off… because my partner and I held hands?°

*Alin huffs, crossing his arms*

[totecs-throne]

☾Scandalous, I say. Next time maybe don’t run away though?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎No, you don’t get it! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alright, could you maybe explain it to me then?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at Esme*

[totecs-throne]

☾You said I don’t get it, and I want to understand. Otherwise I can’t argue in your favor because I won’t get it.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters something in Romanian, to which Zadkiel sighs*

°I was not ignoring you. I looked away for less than a minute.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ah. Your feelings were hurt?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods*

[totecs-throne]

☾I think I get it, kiddo. I don’t like it when I feel ignored either.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He suddenly looks angry*

༒︎Who ignores you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No one in a very long time. Dont you worry about that☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still frowning*

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure that Zadkiel wasn’t trying to ignore you, though.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But he was! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Sometimes grown ups do things that come across in ways we don’t mean. I don’t think he wanted to hurt your feelings, but he did hurt them hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods, seemingly reluctantly*

[totecs-throne]

☾Is there anything we can do to make you feel better?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎you couuuuld… tell me who ignored you? ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

☾And how is that gonna help?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Make me feel better. ༒︎

°You’re not going to torment anyone, Alin, you’re grounded-°

*Alin makes mocking noises and Zadkiel just looks… so done*

[totecs-throne]

☾How about after you’re all done being grounded?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But they’ll all be dead by then! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Nuh uh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Yuh huh because you’re old and I’m gonna be grounded for hundred years! ༒︎

°…Is this because Tom joked you’d be grounded until college last time?°

*Alin nods seriously, and Zadkiel has to cover his mouth as he smiles*

[totecs-throne]

☾Okay yeah I’ll be dead by then but Azriel won’t be. You can pick on them.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Az…el ignore you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No but they ran away from me once when I hit them with a shoe.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

☾I told them ‘You can’t eat all my waffles’ and they did anyways so I took off my shoe and whacked their arm with it and they started running so I had to chase them and I’m way too old to do all that work.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares towards the house, and goes to stomp inside but Zadkiel scoops him up, getting punched and kicked as he did so*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin-don’t attack my precious baby-☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin screeches something in Romanian and Zadkiel rolls his eyes… putting him in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme laughs*

♬…I should have let that one guy kidnap me, then I wouldn’t have to deal with this♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Who tried to kidnap you?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Just some guy.♬

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Does that guy have a name?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Probably did, but I didn’t stop to ask. ♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just stares at him*

♬You know who raised me right? The bitch is dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Azrael didn’t exactly have self-preservation as an infant and I wasn’t allowed near them much after that.°

*He deadpans*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris shrugs*

♬They’re a vibe, I once watched her eat someone’s heart.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*approving nods*

[totecs-throne]

I hear you talking about me out here-

*Azrael comes to a dead halt halfway off the porch when they spot Zadkiel-and faceplant in the mud with their wheelchair landing on top of them.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel rushes over immediately… completely forgetting that he can’t actually help*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme is close behind, helping them back up into the chair*

☾Real smart Az☾

Well I was a tad shocked to see my dead brother-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°My nephew sprinted across heaven because I looked away from him for a second.°

[totecs-throne]

Sounds about right-OW-

*Azrael swats at Elliot, who is hitting him with their shoe*

☾Bad child, no falling while hurt.☾

You’re literally hitting me-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to make a break for it, getting all of two steps before he’s back in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

I was gonna bring Alin home eventually.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No kidding. He’d probably bolt as soon as you got distracted on the way.°

*Alin resumes flailing, trying to hit Zadkiel in any way possible while he seems bored*

[totecs-throne]

Yeah most likely.

♬Mom?♬

Hm?

♬Can I have hot chocolate?♬

Yeah go make some.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin finally goes limp in the air jail*

[totecs-throne]

♬No I want the hot chocolate that you make!♬

It’s the exact same as every other hot chocolate-

♬No it’s not!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel watches in amusement*

[totecs-throne]

Okay, okay. I’ll make hot chocolate when I go inside, deal?

♬Yay!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin mumbles something stroppily and Zadkiel moves him so he’s sat on his hip*

[totecs-throne]

What’s up kiddo?

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°He was saying he wanted some.°

*Zadkiel has the slightest hint of a smile, though it still doesn’t look right*

°Alin has had chocolate a total of once, and I am unfamiliar with hot chocolate myself.°

[totecs-throne]

☾So hot chocolate for you two then?☾

Woah woah woah a first experience with hot chocolate cannot be the monstrosity I make it has to be something that’s actually good-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…You both do realise we are ghosts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ghost hot chocolate.☾

♬That’s a thing?♬

☾I’ll make it a thing☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel continues to seem amused, but Alin perks up*

[totecs-throne]

How are we planning to do that?

☾I’ll either force it into existence myself or I’ll go up to Liz and get down on my knees and beg like a peasant. Duh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel glances towards the cabin, eyebrows furrowed*

[totecs-throne]

Well I don’t think you can just will ghost hot chocolate into existence-

☾Boy where do you think you came from?☾

…uh….the cabbage patch..? A stork? Santa clause? One of those things.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Try Gabriel’s teenage angst.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Somethin like that.☾

Nah cabbage patch sounds better.

♬Wait Auncle Gabriel had sex as a teenager? Does that mean I can have sex when I turn thirteen-♬

No! ☾Absolutely not!☾

*Azrael and Elliot speak in unison*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Not as far as I am aware, I was more referring to them doing… reckless things.°

*Alin tugs on Zadkiel’s shirt*

༒︎What sex? ༒︎

°That is a question for Hope.°

[totecs-throne]

Iris I’m going to kill you

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin laughs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just starts hopping around and Azrael chases her in circles*

♬Nananabooboo you can’t catch me!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°I’m sure they can.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Nuh uh!♬

*Azrael promptly grabs Iris and puts her in air jail*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris detaches her leg to hit Azrael with it.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°You should be nicer to your mother in their old age.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother isn’t here, dumbbutt-♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He stares at Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

I’m Mom. Mom Mama and Mother are separate people.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods slowly, albeit visibly confused*

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother is the strict one, Mom is the normal one, and Mama is the one who lets us do whatever we want.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Right.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mhm mhm. And then there’s Dad. He’s just kinda there. Oh and there’s Leo. He parents us sometimes when he’s bored and homeless♬

…Mother is my older sister Zyana, who helped me raise the kids when I was younger. Mama is my younger sibling Penny, who thinks since everything of mine is theirs that includes the kids.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods along slowly*

[totecs-throne]

In simple terms my kids decided my husband and I weren’t good enough and went off and got three more parents.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Well I haven’t met your current husband, but I don’t think he’d be that bad.°

[totecs-throne]

Well he’s definitely an upgrade from the last one.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Anyone would be, the last one was a cradlerobber.°

[totecs-throne]

Yeah. I stole his children in retaliation.

*Azrael smiles like it’s the most normal sentence in the world*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Good, he didn’t deserve them. Or you.°

[totecs-throne]

Oh he definitely didn’t deserve those precious babies. I don’t even deserve them.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

Where’s my little princess knight?

- @angels-maybe

*Kannika waves to Azrael, wearing her knight costume*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

(Lag reset 6)

༒︎Grounded forever when I go home. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

∰I’m sure you’ll get cut some slack∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin tilts his head, and the gesture is so similar to how Vince does it that Nieko winces*

[totecs-throne]

∰Aza is very good at convincing people to go easy on kids∰

Imma what now?

*Azrael gets through the front door and immediately trades their cane for a wheelchair, taking off their shoes and gloves*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin waves at Azrael, smiling shyly*

[totecs-throne]

Oh hi kiddo, how are you doing? Good I hope?

*Azrael smiles at Alin*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Got lost. Gonna grounded forever. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Oh no. Well I’m sure you won’t be grounded forever, it was an accident after all. How about I help you get back?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Forever and ever. ༒︎

*He pouts, crossing his arms*

❅…You know the way back..? ❅

༒︎Was there! Met momma and uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Yeah I know how to get there. Alin, kiddo, I’ll save you from being grounded forever and ever. Don’t worry.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin nods, still pouting*

[totecs-throne]

You wanna head out or wait a minute?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin puts two fingers up, then very slowly tries to poke Elizabeth, who seems completely and entirely unbothered… until his finger actually pokes her, and she jumps away*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael nods and grabs a bottle of soda.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin laughs, delighted, as Elizabeth is suddenly across the room, glaring at him*

[totecs-throne]

Alin, Liz doesn’t like being touched.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Didn’t think… would work? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

Understandable. Just for future reference since apparently it did work

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He nods, but doesn’t seem happy about the new rule. Nieko squints at the ghost… resulting in Alin flipping him off*

[totecs-throne]

*Theres a sigh from Azrael. Xipe huffs a laugh.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

༒︎Was rude first. ༒︎

𖢻Liz doesn’t get freaked out by things she made. Holy shit you’re actually a ghost. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

I think my no swearing rule died at this point

♬Oh it’s long dead♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko winces, muttering an apology to Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

It’s fine I gave up on it

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻sorry 𖢻

*Elizabeth frowns*

[totecs-throne]

No need, you’re all good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko hesitates, but doesn’t say anything more*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris curls up in Azrael’s lap as they start a crochet project*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Is Lavina okay? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Yeah, she’s probably gonna be in trouble when she gets home but she’s safe.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Why? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Parties don’t give her a free pass to drink and smoke, and she somehow forgets that fact half the time.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*slow nod*

[totecs-throne]

∰Za has her though right?∰

Yeah I trust him to keep her alive

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth glances at Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

Has everyone eaten?

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I think so? ❅

*Elizabeth seems slightly surprised at how loud her own voice is, even as it still isn’t synced to her mouth*

[totecs-throne]

Mkay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅…Why were you gone? ❅

[totecs-throne]

One of your cousins got spooked and Vivi got worried and I felt it. When I actually got there, there was no danger. Then after that was settled I had to deal with Vivi being an idiot.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Which one? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Baph.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅I have a cousin named Bath?? ❅

[totecs-throne]

B A P H.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Who names their kids that? Does their parents hate them? ❅

[totecs-throne]

Probably, I don’t know.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She frowns a little*

[totecs-throne]

I mean, I have a kid named worm so I can’t say much.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅Yeah, but Vince named them. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Fair point.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Wait, did they know Vince named them? Because I learned that- like- yesterday? 𖢻

*Elizabeth shrugs*

[totecs-throne]

I don’t remember if I knew that or not but I’m sure if I did know it’s written down somewhere

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…right. 𖢻

*Elizabeth stares at Nieko*

𖢻I didn’t hit my head that hard, shut up. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael squints at Neiko*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glares at Azrael flatly*

𖢻I don’t have a concussion. Shut up, Liz-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

…you get next week off school just in case.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻If I had a concussion, I would’ve noticed while I was healing myself-𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Eh either way you’re still hurt. No school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems somewhere between confused and disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

∰Agreed.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I’m fine-𖢻

*both Alin and Elizabeth make a noise of disagreement*

[totecs-throne]

You’re still not going to school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko grumbles*

[totecs-throne]

You’ll appreciate it eventually.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He flops back against the couch, mumbling something that Azrael doesn’t catch… but judging by the glare Elizabeth gives Nieko, she does*

[totecs-throne]

Yknow most kids are happy to skip school.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻How? 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

Basically free vacation.

∰If you’re concerned about the work I’m sure I could run and grab it from your teacher?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He drags a hand down his face*

𖢻Liz’ll get it. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Alright.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth raises an eyebrow*

𖢻It’s fine, I just won’t sleep. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

If you need help with it either Xipe or I could help out.

∰I’m very good at being a teacher. All I need is a cardigan and corny glasses.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko seems disbelieving*

[totecs-throne]

We’ll figure it out

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Hm. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰It’ll be good father son bonding time anyhow∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Right. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Or not, if you don’t want my invasion.∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻I- uh-𖢻

*Nieko’s eye twitches and he turns around to shout at Elizabeth*

𖢻Oh my stars, SHUT UP! 𖢻

*She stares at him with wide eyes*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael winces but doesn’t say anything.*

∰Do you think we could maybe be just a tad quieter?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻You’re telling me to be quieter? She’s been shouting into my skull for the past— since the concussion thing got brought up! 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

∰Okay, okay. Liz, please don’t shout into Nieko’s skull. Neeks, take a breath please.∰

*Azrael sighs and grabs a paper towel to stop their left ear from bleeding.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth looks away from Nieko and every bit of tension drains from him instantly*

[totecs-throne]

∰Thank you Liz. You okay bud?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something entirely unintelligible*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe just sits next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*a drop of blood drips from his head onto the couch*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe immediately looks for the source of the blood*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches away, and suddenly his hair is completely saturated with blood*

[totecs-throne]

∰Can I take a look there buddy?∰

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He slams his hands over his ears*

❅…stop looking at him. ❅

*Her voice is the quietest it’s been since Alin showed up, shaking a little*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe looks away*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*It takes a few seconds for the bleeding to slow to a stop, blood covering his hands and the majority of his face by the time it has*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael wets a towel and rolls over to Nieko, not looking at him as they wipe the blood from his face.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko flinches at the wetness*

[totecs-throne]

*The towel dries in an instant.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Very slowly, he moves out from his defensive position, still covering his ears (like that’d do anything to help his mind-reading) as he takes a very shaky breath*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael just continues wiping away the blood, keeping their gaze on the air next to Nieko.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*His breaths slowly become less shaky*

[totecs-throne]

*They clean as much as they can without moving his hands.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth leaves the room, coming back with a stress ball and putting it on the coffee table in front of Nieko*

[totecs-throne]

*Xipe offers her a small smile*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*She nods to him*

❅Helped last time. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*He nods*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko glances at the stress ball, but doesn’t reach for it*

[totecs-throne]

*Azrael plants a kiss to his forehead, still keeping their gaze averted*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻…Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

You’re okay bud, I love you. It’s okay.

*Azrael pulls Nieko into an ever so gentle hug*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He leans into it*

[totecs-throne]

*They hold him close and rub his back*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

𖢻Sorry. 𖢻

[totecs-throne]

It’s okay Nieko, I’ve got you.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he whines wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*They pull him fully into its lap, wrapping around him.*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth smiles a little*

[totecs-throne]

I’ve got you Neeks. I love you, and everything is okay.

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*He mumbles something inaudible*

[totecs-throne]

*They just hold him closer*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Nieko’s chest barely moves with his breaths*

[totecs-throne]

*Very gentle back rubs*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Through his thin shirt, they can feel bandages*

[totecs-throne]

*They frown but say nothing*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅He’s been worse. ❅

[totecs-throne]

*Slow nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

❅So he’ll be fine. ❅

[totecs-throne]

Good

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Elizabeth nods*

[totecs-throne]

*nod*

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*Alin fidgets*

[totecs-throne]

♬Wanna see all the animals?♬

[heavens-alive-little-ones]

*he nods rapidly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles and heads outside, motioning for Alin to follow*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He follows wordlessly*

[totecs-throne]

*She stops at the paddock to pet Sunny*

♬This is Sunny, he’s my mom’s♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tilts his head at Sunny*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He giggles*

༒︎Cǎluț! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris smiles as Sunny sniffs at Alin*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to pet sunny but frowns when his hand passes right through*

[totecs-throne]

*Sunny snorts again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He pouts a little*

༒︎…least you’re alive… being dead sucks.༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Sorry you’re dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin giggles*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Sound like… when Lizzy visits graves! Ack-ard?༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Ohh. Yeah I’m awkward I guess?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Footsteps appear in the grass and Alin’s face lights up*

[totecs-throne]

♬Who’s here-?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Uncle! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬Uncle who?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters a few things*

༒︎Sad…kill? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬The one that messed up my hair that one time?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still beaming*

[totecs-throne]

♬Hi evil Tío-er-uncle-whichever side of the family you are…I should tell Abuelita. She’ll want to say hi.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin looks to where the footprints are, tilting his head*

༒︎Nooo! I don’t wanna! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

*Iris tilts her head again*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Not home yet! Have friend and… and Sunny! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

♬And we were gonna see the rest of the animals and play!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at the air as the footsteps approach… then bites at something. Suddenly a humanoid creature appears, not looking all that dissimilar to when Satan tries to look more human, except with sharper teeth and dark stains crawling up his arms and down his horns*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris types something on her phone and Esme just…appears. Still with a half finished skirt in their hands.*

☾Zadkiel!☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel stares disapprovingly at Alin, before looking at Esme, voice a lot steadier than it had been in life*

°Arts and crafts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Yeah…I’m so glad to see you.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a face that looks almost like a grimace*

༒︎Fix your face. ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin be nice. Or I’ll have an ostrich chase you☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin sputters indignantly, muttering in Romanian*

°He’s already going to be grounded for a year. No need to add torture.°

[totecs-throne]

☾A year? For what?☾

♬Playing with me while having evil uncle♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°For running off and getting lost. The only reason I was able to find him is because the… uh…groază… was loud about it. °

[totecs-throne]

*Esme huffs a laugh*

☾Well at least he ended up here?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel makes a few noises that have Alin looking torn between laughter and dismay*

°—Even know where here is!°

[totecs-throne]

☾Az’s home. So, somewhere safe at least.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs, running a hand through hair that’s mostly grey*

[totecs-throne]

♬Can’t he stay?♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No.°

༒︎But-༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure he can come visit another time, yeah? Just not today☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But ground! ༒︎

°You ran across the entire length of Heaven in the span of two minutes when I looked away from you.°

*Alin huffs*

[totecs-throne]

☾Next time maybe we tell adults where we’re going hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin scowls, mumbling something*

[totecs-throne]

*They huff a laugh, crouching down.*

☾What is it dear?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎He was being gross with other uncle. ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

°You ran off… because my partner and I held hands?°

*Alin huffs, crossing his arms*

[totecs-throne]

☾Scandalous, I say. Next time maybe don’t run away though?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎No, you don’t get it! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Alright, could you maybe explain it to me then?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares at Esme*

[totecs-throne]

☾You said I don’t get it, and I want to understand. Otherwise I can’t argue in your favor because I won’t get it.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He mutters something in Romanian, to which Zadkiel sighs*

°I was not ignoring you. I looked away for less than a minute.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ah. Your feelings were hurt?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods*

[totecs-throne]

☾I think I get it, kiddo. I don’t like it when I feel ignored either.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He suddenly looks angry*

༒︎Who ignores you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No one in a very long time. Dont you worry about that☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin nods, still frowning*

[totecs-throne]

☾I’m sure that Zadkiel wasn’t trying to ignore you, though.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But he was! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Sometimes grown ups do things that come across in ways we don’t mean. I don’t think he wanted to hurt your feelings, but he did hurt them hm?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods, seemingly reluctantly*

[totecs-throne]

☾Is there anything we can do to make you feel better?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎you couuuuld… tell me who ignored you? ༒︎

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

☾And how is that gonna help?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Make me feel better. ༒︎

°You’re not going to torment anyone, Alin, you’re grounded-°

*Alin makes mocking noises and Zadkiel just looks… so done*

[totecs-throne]

☾How about after you’re all done being grounded?☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎But they’ll all be dead by then! ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾Nuh uh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Yuh huh because you’re old and I’m gonna be grounded for hundred years! ༒︎

°…Is this because Tom joked you’d be grounded until college last time?°

*Alin nods seriously, and Zadkiel has to cover his mouth as he smiles*

[totecs-throne]

☾Okay yeah I’ll be dead by then but Azriel won’t be. You can pick on them.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

༒︎Az…el ignore you? ༒︎

[totecs-throne]

☾No but they ran away from me once when I hit them with a shoe.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*he tilts his head*

[totecs-throne]

☾I told them ‘You can’t eat all my waffles’ and they did anyways so I took off my shoe and whacked their arm with it and they started running so I had to chase them and I’m way too old to do all that work.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin glares towards the house, and goes to stomp inside but Zadkiel scoops him up, getting punched and kicked as he did so*

[totecs-throne]

☾Alin-don’t attack my precious baby-☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin screeches something in Romanian and Zadkiel rolls his eyes… putting him in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme laughs*

♬…I should have let that one guy kidnap me, then I wouldn’t have to deal with this♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Who tried to kidnap you?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Just some guy.♬

*She shrugs*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Does that guy have a name?°

[totecs-throne]

♬Probably did, but I didn’t stop to ask. ♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel sighs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just stares at him*

♬You know who raised me right? The bitch is dead.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Azrael didn’t exactly have self-preservation as an infant and I wasn’t allowed near them much after that.°

*He deadpans*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris shrugs*

♬They’re a vibe, I once watched her eat someone’s heart.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*approving nods*

[totecs-throne]

I hear you talking about me out here-

*Azrael comes to a dead halt halfway off the porch when they spot Zadkiel-and faceplant in the mud with their wheelchair landing on top of them.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel rushes over immediately… completely forgetting that he can’t actually help*

[totecs-throne]

*Esme is close behind, helping them back up into the chair*

☾Real smart Az☾

Well I was a tad shocked to see my dead brother-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°My nephew sprinted across heaven because I looked away from him for a second.°

[totecs-throne]

Sounds about right-OW-

*Azrael swats at Elliot, who is hitting him with their shoe*

☾Bad child, no falling while hurt.☾

You’re literally hitting me-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin tries to make a break for it, getting all of two steps before he’s back in air jail*

[totecs-throne]

I was gonna bring Alin home eventually.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°No kidding. He’d probably bolt as soon as you got distracted on the way.°

*Alin resumes flailing, trying to hit Zadkiel in any way possible while he seems bored*

[totecs-throne]

Yeah most likely.

♬Mom?♬

Hm?

♬Can I have hot chocolate?♬

Yeah go make some.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin finally goes limp in the air jail*

[totecs-throne]

♬No I want the hot chocolate that you make!♬

It’s the exact same as every other hot chocolate-

♬No it’s not!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel watches in amusement*

[totecs-throne]

Okay, okay. I’ll make hot chocolate when I go inside, deal?

♬Yay!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin mumbles something stroppily and Zadkiel moves him so he’s sat on his hip*

[totecs-throne]

What’s up kiddo?

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°He was saying he wanted some.°

*Zadkiel has the slightest hint of a smile, though it still doesn’t look right*

°Alin has had chocolate a total of once, and I am unfamiliar with hot chocolate myself.°

[totecs-throne]

☾So hot chocolate for you two then?☾

Woah woah woah a first experience with hot chocolate cannot be the monstrosity I make it has to be something that’s actually good-

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…You both do realise we are ghosts?°

[totecs-throne]

☾Ghost hot chocolate.☾

♬That’s a thing?♬

☾I’ll make it a thing☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel continues to seem amused, but Alin perks up*

[totecs-throne]

How are we planning to do that?

☾I’ll either force it into existence myself or I’ll go up to Liz and get down on my knees and beg like a peasant. Duh.☾

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel glances towards the cabin, eyebrows furrowed*

[totecs-throne]

Well I don’t think you can just will ghost hot chocolate into existence-

☾Boy where do you think you came from?☾

…uh….the cabbage patch..? A stork? Santa clause? One of those things.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Try Gabriel’s teenage angst.°

[totecs-throne]

☾Somethin like that.☾

Nah cabbage patch sounds better.

♬Wait Auncle Gabriel had sex as a teenager? Does that mean I can have sex when I turn thirteen-♬

No! ☾Absolutely not!☾

*Azrael and Elliot speak in unison*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Not as far as I am aware, I was more referring to them doing… reckless things.°

*Alin tugs on Zadkiel’s shirt*

༒︎What sex? ༒︎

°That is a question for Hope.°

[totecs-throne]

Iris I’m going to kill you

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Alin laughs*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris just starts hopping around and Azrael chases her in circles*

♬Nananabooboo you can’t catch me!♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°I’m sure they can.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Nuh uh!♬

*Azrael promptly grabs Iris and puts her in air jail*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods approvingly*

[totecs-throne]

*Iris detaches her leg to hit Azrael with it.*

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°You should be nicer to your mother in their old age.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother isn’t here, dumbbutt-♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He stares at Azrael*

[totecs-throne]

I’m Mom. Mom Mama and Mother are separate people.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*He nods slowly, albeit visibly confused*

[totecs-throne]

♬Mother is the strict one, Mom is the normal one, and Mama is the one who lets us do whatever we want.♬

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°…Right.°

[totecs-throne]

♬Mhm mhm. And then there’s Dad. He’s just kinda there. Oh and there’s Leo. He parents us sometimes when he’s bored and homeless♬

…Mother is my older sister Zyana, who helped me raise the kids when I was younger. Mama is my younger sibling Penny, who thinks since everything of mine is theirs that includes the kids.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

*Zadkiel nods along slowly*

[totecs-throne]

In simple terms my kids decided my husband and I weren’t good enough and went off and got three more parents.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Well I haven’t met your current husband, but I don’t think he’d be that bad.°

[totecs-throne]

Well he’s definitely an upgrade from the last one.

[ghosts-of-dreamers]

°Anyone would be, the last one was a cradlerobber.°

[totecs-throne]

Yeah. I stole his children in retaliation.

*Azrael smiles like it’s the most normal sentence in the world*