Shuuichi rubbed his palm into his eyes, just…already so done…

He appreciated the guests. He did. He appreciated that people were stopping by to help.

...but fuck, leave them alone…

He didn’t really mean that. He was just, well…in the middle of being sad and angry and weepy and it was the first time in a while without an audience, Kaito helping Timothy with some homework a few doors down (Tim still didn’t want to come into the room), and he just…wanted to be sad for awhile, okay?

But he couldn’t turn anyone away. What, he was going to tell people, no? You can’t come see Kokichi? What kind of fucking asshole…

Grabbing a tissue cloth, he shoved his face into it, groaned for a second… “One second! Sorry, give me a minute… Putting clothes on!” Shuuichi called out, immediately rolling his eyes at himself. Really? Did he have to provide a specific example? Why? For whose benefit? Ugh… he just wanted to dry his face real quick…

Drake perked, dithering for a moment before he called back through the door. “Um! Take your time, Shuuichi! I…”

...what if Shuuichi didn’t want to see him? Sure, they were friends, and Shuuichi had invited him out for non-school things, so it wasn’t just a friendship of convenience but… Oh no, what if he just...reminded Shuuichi of school? Like...he would always have the option to go back, but he couldn’t go right now and...maybe it was a sore spot? He knew the family was excited for their daughter, but the physicality of pregnancy had always annoyed Shuuichi and…

“U-um, I’m sorry I didn’t...send a message or anything beforehand… If you’re busy or...just don’t want to see me, I can go...but I did bring you a drink! If you want it…”

“...Drake?” 

Shuuichi quickly finished wiping up his face, gave the room around them a worried look-- was it a mess? Well… yeah, actually, nevermind, it was full of flowers and puzzle pieces and the endless beat of the heart monitor, clean was out of the question-- before giving Kokichi an equally worried look, but, well… he doubted Kokichi would mind.

“No, no, you’re fine, sending messengers is a hassle…” Shuuichi opened the door, giving Drake a small smile. “Oh, hey… um, sorry, everything’s a mess right now, um… you can come in, just…”

Shuuichi’s eyes trained on the drink. The familiar aroma filling the air tantalizingly. “...does that have any caffeine in it?” Shuuichi asked, half-hopeful.

Drake smiled as his friend opened the door, though his eyes widened when we saw what was inside. “Whoa… I-I mean, like, a good whoa? This isn’t a bad mess, or, really, something I would consider a mess? But...um. Nice flowers.”

So that’s what that had been… He’d been confused by the images of the indoor garden, trying to guess exactly where it was. 

Laughing softly, Drake offered out the drink. “Ostensibly, though I’m not sure how much that’s actually true… The syrup had a caffeinated tea steeped in it, so...it technically should? I remember that tea you told me about but the cafe I went to didn’t have it, so I asked what was the most caffeinated thing I could get that would be safe for a pregnant person to have and...well. I hope you like it.”

It...seemed to be just the two...well, the three of them, counting the sleeping prince, in the room, but Drake looked around for a moment just to make sure. “I got a drink for Kaito too, but, um…” ...he didn’t know where to go from there. 

It had been hectic. The news from Luminary had been unbelievable, especially when Drake confirmed that it was an entirely human-aware endeavor. There was a part of him that worried about how long this direction could last without the Flora dealt with, but...for the most part? It was incredible. 

And going from that, to Prince Kokichi’s heart attack?

Drake gave his friend a worried look. “...I’m sure you have enough people asking, but...how are you holding up? I...I wanted to ask if you wanted to sit and talk somewhere but…” he laughed awkwardly. “I mean, I’m happy being a drink delivery person if you just want some time to yourself.”

“Here, you can just put his drink down…” Shuuichi looked around, “I guess just put it on the vanity desk. Thank you… Kaito’s helping his son with homework, I’m not sure when he’ll be finished, but I’m sure he’ll appreciate seeing the gesture when he gets back.”

“And, no, if you’re not, you know… rushing off to do something? You can sit down if you want to, it’s good to see you,” Shuuichi said, this more or less being true. Shuuichi… liked everyone who came by to visit well enough. In the sense that most of those people were nice enough folks who cared about Kokichi. But, well… Drake was a friend. It was good to see him.

Taking his drink, Shuuichi thanked him again, gratefully taking a sip-- mmmm… that almost caffeinated goodness-- before sitting on the edge of the bed, gesturing Drake to take a seat at any of the multitudes of chairs that now were a semi-permanent fixture around their bed, lots of people taking the opportunity to write something on the puzzle when they came to visit now. A ‘theme’ developing on it, as it were. It was nice… Shuuichi kept trying to work at it when he could muster the energy. He sort of wanted the puzzle to be done by the time Kokichi woke up, but…

Well, he’d honestly prefer Kokichi wake up, puzzle be damned.

“I’m… I’m alright. Things are going about as well as the circumstances allow, you know? Kokichi’s vital signs have been steady, no dangerous dips or anything like that, so… he could be up any minute. Or, any day… though he probably won’t be entirely coherent when he wakes up. But that’s okay. One step at a time. That’s what Kaito keeps saying,” Shuuichi said, a notably tired look in his eye… though he asked, “How’s your final project for class going? Not a lot of time left for it.”

Drake nodded and took an offered seat, honestly...really relieved that Shuuichi didn’t want him to go. The man looked tired and stressed, and while that was entirely understandable for the situation...it still sucked. And Drake didn’t want to be a performance his friend needed to put on. 

He looked at the puzzle with some interest, recognizing Shuuichi’s handwriting on some of the pieces, but none of the others. The flowers filling the room made for a strong floral scent, nothing particularly obnoxious, but inescapable. 

Nodding at the update of Kokichi’s condition, Drake...kind of wanted to ask how Shuuichi was again, but… He groaned, dropping his head. “Don’t remind me… I’m on pace, and I know I am, but...things go wrong! All the time! And I’m half worried that...I don’t know, something will happen and I’ll be late, but that if I hurry to get it done early I’ll rush and make avoidable mistakes…”

He sighed, rubbing his forehead as he looked up with a slight smile. “I’m glad you’re taking time to yourself, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss you in class… The professor said that you’d just have to do a final project outside of a class sometime to get credit, right? Since you were there for nearly the whole semester…”

“Mmhm. I was gonna try to work on it a bit here, but… haven't gotten started on it yet,” Shuuichi said simply, shrugging a little, before giving Drake a small smirk. “As for you, I think you’re worrying about it too much. You’re a smart guy, Drake. Even if you hurried, I doubt there’d be much you’d miss.”

Sipping again at his coffee, Shuuichi… tried to think of something to talk about. Anything. Anything that wasn’t… all of the things. Shuuichi had been doing so well, general anxiety wise, lately, that for a little bit, it had been like late highschool, the early years of his career. The panic attacks coming so infrequently that he had almost felt like he was ‘cured’ of them. Everything had felt… stable. Predictable. Easier to manage. He had been getting back into that feeling, the last few months, with some relief.

Now?

Kokichi’s heart attack had been a bleak reminder of how fragile this stability was. Kaito was back to coping with difficult things by not directly addressing them. Maki was gone. Kokichi was gone. Both of them could easily stay gone. Shuuichi, logically, knew Kaito would still be there to help Shuuichi raise Miyako and, let’s face it, Timothy, but Kaito’s mental stability wasn’t always that strong to begin with, and with his parents dead, brother disgraced, and his best friend gone and husband dead??

Nothing felt stable or safe or for sure anymore and Shuuichi was stressing the fuck out. 

And he didn’t know what to talk about.

So he said after a sip, “Otherwise, how are things with you? Anything new happening recently?”

Drake laughed bashfully, but that was something about hanging out with Shuuichi that he’d missed. He was a wreck but...sometimes he actually felt kind of competent around his friend. It was nice, being able to be that for someone. 

“Not particularly,” Drake hummed, trying to think of something interesting to share with his friend. “I’m planning on making a trip soon to the Hanamiya Nursery, since I heard they usually have sales in spring. I haven’t managed to kill any of my succulents yet, so I’m thinking of getting another…”

...it wasn’t really a secret, and people talked about their families all the time. Chances were Shuuichi wouldn’t see them at all either. 

Drake perked a little, like he’d just remembered. “Oh, my aunt--er, she lives in the city too--a friend of hers is coming from out of town and she wanted to introduce us. I think she’s supposed to arrive in a few weeks? So...meeting new people. That’ll be exciting.”

Really, Nell was calling on a favor. It wasn’t really like Drake owed her, since it was safer for everyone involved to feign relations, but...well, he was happy to help out his elder vampire, and a few other magic folk as well. Even if Usami was a Flora...but she was a Flora that needed help going against the queen, so she seemed alright. He wasn’t sure what he’d be able to do for the group, but he’d be willing to lend his assistance if they needed it.

Oh, right. Shuuichi had never verified Nell. Which meant he had never verified Drake. References were only good so long as the reference could be trusted.

...ugh. Drake wasn’t hiding anything. Shuuichi had too many other problems to want to muster up the energy to go looking for more.

“Oh, yeah?” Shuuichi asked, glancing over his shoulder, checking on Kokichi. “That’s interesting. She tell you anything about the friend? Also, sorry, I’m still not super familiar with the surrounding area. Hanamiya?”

Drake followed Shuuichi’s gaze over to the sleeping prince. The leaps in technology really had been amazing… They could monitor his heartbeat constantly from afar, without needing to time it. Kokichi smelled...weak. Low iron, his blood pressure was slow, moving slowly around his body in sleep...but he was undoubtedly alive. 

“She’s another healer--apparently she and my aunt met as colleagues some time back, though while Aunt Nell is a GP, Miss Usami, er,” Drake chuckled, giving his friend a sheepish look, “She’s an obstetrician. Swear I didn’t bring it up just for that! But apparently she’s gotten some time off from the clinic she works at up north and is coming to visit for a while.”

...it had seemed a little too convenient that a Flora OB was coming to town just as Shuuichi was due, and while Drake respected Nell a lot, he’d asked about it. And...she had admitted that originally, she had asked Usami to come to Dicea for Shuuichi. But then he ended up going to Elodie, and would be in good hands so...she’d nearly asked Usami to just call it off, but to her surprise, the Flora had still asked to come. To see her old friend, of course, but...because of other business. 

...he hadn’t been sure how far his vision had gone. If the child he’d seen with who he imagined to be Usami, from Nell’s description, was coming with her now, or was someone they’d meet farther in the future. 

Taking a drink of his own coffee that he’d brought, Drake tried outlining a vague map of the city in the air, pointing to a spot on the far east side. “The Hanamiya Nursery is a, er, plant nursery almost on the outskirts. They have a lot of things, but they specialize in flowers--a-as opposed to, like, grasses or saplings or fruit or vegetable plants… Apparently the family that runs it are descendants of one of the old Dicean queens--I only know since they have a big cherry tree in the middle of the store that’s named after her.”

Shuuichi listened to all of this, nodding along… “Oh. That’s the next place then. No doubt… Kaito and I talk a lot about trying to visit places in the future. Kokichi hasn’t gotten to travel much, most of his life, and he still hasn’t traveled much since he began really doing so. But a plant nursery run by, essentially, distant cousins of his? I bet he would love that… How long will it take you to get there?”

And, then, because he thought he should comment on it, “Oh, Dr. Nell. She’s your aunt, then? Or a different Dr. Nell?”

Aww… Drake smiled softly. That was really sweet… It wasn’t so much of a trip, but if they wanted to make it soon? Going with a baby and...however recovered Prince Kokichi was by then, it would be a good experience. “I’m walking from my place, so...probably about two hours? I’m kinda counting on not hurrying and...maybe an incident or two, though. I thought about biking but, uh…” Drake scratched his cheek. “Don’t wanna leave too much to chance if I’m bringing home a new plant.”

Drake blinked in surprise, confused for a moment before- “...oh, duh, of course you probably know her… Yeah, my aunt works here as a healer.” Laughing a little sheepishly, giving Shuuichi an apologetic look, he tried to explain. “She’s really my dad’s cousin? Like, I’d never met her before I moved out here. But the university wanted an emergency contact and...I think my parents felt better about me being here with family in the city, even if she’s a little distant.”

“It...really didn’t occur to me that you might know her. I guess with Kokichi being...kind of acquainted with everyone in the medical wing here, though...yeah.” Drake’s smile strained a little bit as his shoulders dropped. “...is that weird?”

“Oh, absolutely.” Shuuichi said, looking at Drake deadpan, “Really, Drake… how dare you move where you have relatives. Outrageous. You make me sick.”

Then Shuuichi laughed lightly, shaking his head at his own stupid joke, before shrugging, “No, not really. It’s a bit of a coincidence, but nothing worth writing home about. Do you have a lot of family members in the medical field? What about your parents, what do they do?”

… 

Drake smiled, laughing softly as he relaxed. He knew Shuuichi was paranoid enough to think that...he didn’t know, that he’d used his connections with Nell to get information about him. Which he didn’t, for the record! But he’d genuinely been worried if Shuuichi was uncomfortable from that. So...it was a relief that Shuuichi didn’t seem to care.

“No, actually,” he shook his head, this lie practiced not just for this ‘life’. “My mom’s a...well, she calls it a ‘mail-in tailor’? But a lot of people end up coming by personally. Basically, people send her things they want mended or hemmed or...whatever that they don’t need fittings for, and she does it and sends it back. Honestly, one of the best skills I think I picked up from my folks, even if I’m not quite on her level. She can seriously make stitches just disappear!”

“And my dad does contract work for farms, though he’s always kept it to the farms nearby our town. I can only remember a handful of times where he was far enough away he couldn’t make it back home at night. But most of the time if you do contract work, the farm owners will give you some of the crop? Not enough to sell, really, but...like getting to enjoy the sometimes literal fruits of your labor, you know? Even though he’d work long hours, my dad was the cook in our family and...man.” Drake chuckled fondly. “It’s kind of gotten me to think about making a patio garden for myself, because there’s nothing like a meal made of ingredients you harvested that day… My dad’s a good cook, but I really think it made a huge difference.”

Drake blinked, then laughed awkwardly. “Ah, ha… Sorry, rambled for a bit there…”

Shuuichi felt himself relax a little. He wasn’t sure if it was the drink or Drake’s company or the nice imagery of being raised on a farm-- or, at the very least, near farms-- but… “Don’t be sorry, I asked. And it sounds nice…”

Taking another sip, Shuuichi couldn’t help but say, “Growing up in Dicea… it sort of sounds amazing. I hope Miya will be happy here… I really, genuinely can’t imagine what kind of life she’ll have here. Everything’s still so… strange and ‘other’ to me, you know? I’m always slightly off-step here… but it won’t be that way for Miyako. She’ll be a native. Growing up in it, she’ll understand this place in a way I’ll probably never be able to manage. I hope she’ll be happy in it.”

Giving Drake a small smile, he asked, “Alright, so, what’s it like? What kind of things can I expect for Miyako? What was school like for you, growing up?”

Drake nodded a bit, probably...more understanding than Shuuichi would ever know. He had lived in Dicea for a long time now, but still sometimes he just...couldn’t believe it. How people genuinely didn’t believe in nobility. How much people were willing to help strangers, just because you were from the same town, or even just because you needed help. 

The Hanamiya Nursery...the fact that they were descended from a queen was a point of pride! In the Luminary Drake had grown up in, if a noble family ended up selling flowers for a living? It would be the biggest disgrace, hidden at all costs because it was better to just be thought that your family had always been a lower class. 

He wasn’t caught off guard by it all these days, but...when he took a step back to look at it, it was astounding. And for the people who were born in it? It was completely natural. 

Drake gave Shuuichi a slightly surprised look before laughing quietly. “I mean, I know just saying that it’s ‘normal’ doesn’t describe much, but that’s really how it felt… And you have a kid in elementary school right now, so you’re even more up to date than I am.”

Thinking for a moment, Drake tried to wrack his brain for what the school system was like these days. “I guess… It really rewards curiosity? But that’s more of a ‘looking back’ sort of thing. I always felt kind of intimidated when we’d be brought together as a class, getting big group lessons or working on projects...but a lot of the time, I was just allowed to read whatever I was interested in, or work with one of the teacher’s aides for smaller group lessons. They really want to make sure kids get personal attention, even if they’re a little shy,” he laughed. 

“I wasn’t really, yanno, a social butterfly, but...sometimes people would be interested in whatever I was working on, and we’d talk and...I never really felt like an outcast or anything. Pretty much all of my primary school days were pretty peaceful.”

“Ah, Timothy’s having a bit more trouble. Shockingly enough, not for any of the reasons you’d expect.” Shuuichi rolled his eyes, about to spill that elementary school drama tea. “He happened to make a friend that, the way they tell it, one of the more popular kids in the class seems to have some sort of personal vendetta against. Something about them being art rivals, I guess. So, being the good kid he is, he’s sticking with his friend, but apparently it’s made it difficult to make other friends in the class. Mind you, Tim can be a little anti-social to start with, so I’m not sure how much he ‘can’t make friends’ or that he just decided it wasn’t worth the additional effort.”

“Still, he doesn’t seem unhappy about it. If anything, I think he’s just bored by it. Time will probably make that better… I don’t know. I’m happy that they’re growing up somewhere nice. I’m happy you got to grow up somewhere nice. I think a part of me is just always waiting for this place’s true colors to show. It kind of keeps me on edge,” Shuuichi admitted, shrugging. “Just my paranoid nature, I guess. Our relationship therapist would probably laugh to hear that: she’s always saying we already have a bunch of ridiculous, absurd problems. What shoe is there left to drop?”

“...sorry, I don’t mean to be grim.” Shuuichi sighed, glancing over his shoulder at Kokichi again. Still asleep. Still barely alive… “Things have been kind of grim lately. It’s hard to get out of the mindset.”

It was kind of precious, hearing about kid drama, but Drake’s smile was approving. “It’s good that he’s sticking by his friend… And...while I was never a social butterfly, it was still something I found interesting… How many people in school you were just friends with because you saw each other every day? It doesn’t mean the time you spent together didn’t mean anything, but...if you can come out of it with a few deep friendships, that’s something special. That Tim has found a couple people he’s close with is good.”

And while Dicea was peaceful...it didn’t mean bad things never happened. And Shuuichi knew that personally. 

Drake followed his gaze to Kokichi again and he softly sighed, though he gave his friend a gentle look. “It’s alright. If it’s something you want or need to talk about, I’m not here just to only hear about good things, you know? But I’m not going to push for it, if you wanted a distraction.” Even if the constant beeping and the flowers all over their room were hard to forget about. 

“...I’m sorry if this is...too much but…” Drake’s eyebrows drew in, his mouth turned down in a worried line. “...are you okay with all this? I know you love Kokichi, but...I mean...I’m assuming you and Kaito didn’t buy all these flowers. To be around people stopping by for him all the time, and…”

...he sighed. “...sorry. It’s insensitive to ask something like this… I’m just worried about you--it’s hard when there’s struggles in the family.”

“...it can be a lot.” Shuuichi admitted, looking around at the flowers with a wary eye. “It’s… conflicting. I appreciate the people want to visit Kokichi, and honestly, the help is needed. Kaito and I don’t want to leave Kokichi alone when he’s like this, but leaving him exclusively with healers… back when we first got here it was absolutely not an option, for a variety of reasons. It didn’t feel safe. Now, that’s not as big of an issue, but it still feels… wrong.”

“So, having a bunch of friends and family willing to sit with him for a few hours, watch over him, while we step out, or, honestly, more often then not bringing us things so we don’t have to step out… it’s been a huge help. But…”

“I’m exhausted.” Shuuichi confessed, rubbing his eyes lightly, just the strain on them starting to get to him the more he thought about it. “People in and out, constantly, when I was never… I’m not a hugely social person. I like spending time with people I like, but just spending time with people in general drains me. Maybe it’d help if the time spent alone was… less stressful than it is, but Kaito and Kokichi are, well… spending time with them is kind of my alone time, right now, and both of them, as much as I love them… neither of them are exactly in good places, right now.” Shuuichi sighed, “And neither am I, really… it’s just a lot of things all happening at once again. Kokichi’s health issues, Kaito’s family drama, my pregnancy… it’s all coming to it’s breaking point all at the same time. I’m exhausted and nervous and anxious because our kids about to pop out of me in a little over a month, Kaito, I’m pretty sure, has a mental breakdown just sort of put on ‘hold’ right now, and Kokichi… well.”

Shuuichi gestured to Kokichi. “...I’m terrified he won’t be able to… to come to the hospital when Miya’s born. That he’ll still be on bedrest by then. I’m scared he’ll be on bedrest for the first month or so of her life. I heard one attack put him on bedrest for three months. I’ll be on bedrest for a little while, most likely...an infant who will need feeding every few hours and won’t be able to sleep through the night… Kaito might make the hard decision and just move himself and her to the nursery, trying to take care of all three of us at once, separating us to help our recovery…”

“...fuck it’s all so depressing.” Shuuichi admitted, lowering the hat on his head, “I’m sorry… it’s all so much. It’s all happened all at once… it’s hard…”

Shuuichi lamented into the brim of his hat for a moment, collecting himself… before sighing. Raising it up a little and giving Drake a dry look as he said, “Sorry. That was a lot to dump onto you. I didn’t realize I had that much to say, and it just sort of spilled out of me before I could think about it.”

Drake nodded slowly before gently reaching out to put a hand on Shuuichi’s shoulder for a moment. Just briefly. “I asked, you don’t need to apologize. And...that is a lot. No one can say what you and your family are going through isn’t...insane, really.”

The vampire sighed. He wanted to protect Shuuichi, and while he knew Dicea was generally peaceful, he’d always imagined that protection as physical. Against enemies that were people and had motives and...all that stuff. But the stresses of life were things people needed protection from just as much, and...Drake wasn’t sure what to do. 

“...do you have a space that isn’t here that’s yours to just...chill out in?” Drake asked. “Even if it feels wrong to have the healers take over looking after Kokichi...you said that friends come by. It might give you some time to recharge if you could step out for a bit and...you know, genuinely be by yourself.”

Scratching his cheek, Drake knew that Shuuichi wasn’t exactly looking for advice, but...maybe thinking of a plan would help him feel less down. And this, at least, was something Shuuichi did have control over.

Shuuichi did seem to consider that, mostly just grateful Drake wasn’t treating his complaints like a nuisance. He sort of felt like a nuisance. Kokichi literally was laying behind him in a coma, and Shuuichi was here, talking like his boyfriends heart attack was some sort of… ‘inconvenience’. He didn’t exactly feel proud of his stress…

Nor was he proud of the appeal of the advice, as he said, “We talked about that once. Back when I first moved into this room. About getting me a room somewhere that was just for me… I think things just sort of got away from us and we never revisited the idea…”

A thought occurred to Shuuichi, not for the first time, probably not or the last, about… how badly he wished things had been different, when he first entered this relationship. Not because he regretted or resented the relationship. Kaito and Kokichi were two of the best things to ever happen to him… he just…

He just wished he hadn’t been on drugs. Or under house arrest. Or somewhat out of his mind and almost entirely out of control of his life, when it had all started. He had… thought about talking to Miss Crystal, about it, but he was terrified it’d paint the prince’s in the wrong light. Neither of them had been trying to take advantage of him. Of his situation. It had all been so strange. None of them had known what they were doing, taking that whirlwind day by day. 

Shuuichi just had hurt feelings, sometimes, about all of it. Feelings he didn’t know how to express to anyone without causing more pain then he intended. 

Besides, now between Nao, and John…

Shuuichi hadn’t intended any of those consequences either. He wasn’t about to put Kokichi or Kaito at risk, talking to anyone about it.

(...he’d like to talk to Maki about it, someday.)

(If she ever came home.)

“... maybe that would be a… a nice idea. Though…” Shuuichi gave Drake a somewhat sheepish look, “Do you think it sounds selfish? Asking for some sort of… I don’t know. Study or something, at a time like this? I don’t want Kokichi to wake up and think I was trying to get away from him. I want to be here for him…”

Drake’s eyes widened as he shook his head. “No way! And...I mean especially if you all talked about it before. I’ll admit I don’t know Kokichi that well, but...he’d know that you’re not the type that thrives having people come by all the time, right? And what I do know is that people benefit a lot by having their own spaces.”

Blushing lightly, he gave his friend a sheepish look. “There...uh. There was actually a study, a while back, trying to look into why incidents between partners happened. And there was a piece of it that referred to another trend study about...how people who lived together at large started to have an easier time resolving arguments once they stopped sleeping in the same room? And just having your own space in general seems to contribute to that… It’s just that...even if you’re really social, you need time alone, and a space to reflect that.”

“You are here for him. But...being there for your boyfriend doesn’t mean putting every bit of your own energy towards him,” Drake said. “You can look after him without doing it 24/7. Letting yourself rest and recharge and...honestly, live a little on your own? Will let you come back with a better head to handle everything you need to.”

“...a-at least, that’s what I think.”

“Yeah, I suppose that’s true… I think I might take your advice then. I… honestly, I think getting a break sometimes will make me less intolerable to be around.” Shuuichi admitted with a small laugh, shaking his head a little, “I haven't felt like it in a long time, but I used to be… somewhat on the sweet side, in my own way. Not the rainbow beam of Kokichi sort of sweet, just… sort of soft and nice in my own, quiet way. Lately? I feel like sometimes I hear things come out of my mouth that sound straight from Maki. My friend from Luminary, the one on vacation.”

He said all of this with a sort of self-disparaging smile, but shrugged as the smile fell a bit, “I’m not exactly fond of all the changes I’ve gone through. I don’t like being the kind of person who snaps at people or can’t handle helping people through their own crisis’. It’s… probably going to be a long, uphill battle, but I’d like to return to my idea of ‘normal’ someday… oh well. Maybe someday.”

“For now, I suppose you just get the pregnant, spastic version of me. Though… really, Drake, thank you for coming to visit me during this. When everything’s calmed down? I’d love for us to hang out under less stressful circumstances. Maybe do more things like the art exhibit… thing? We went to? That was weird. The more I remember that, the weirder that was, right?”

If people were placed under constant stress, they adapted to...well, be under constant stress. It didn’t mean things were good--it meant that they would survive. That meant maybe being paranoid or snippy or aloof or purposefully ignorant or any number of things that would keep them sane and alive. But...it wasn’t necessarily good for them. People needed to be given a break, room to breathe. Otherwise...surviving was all they did. 

Drake shook his head a little, offering a smile. “For what it’s worth, I like the you I’ve known these past few months.”

“But yeah, I’d like to go hang out with you when things are steadier. I mean...I like your company, so I’ll probably come by anyway, but…” He laughed softly, scratching his cheek. “I think back on it, every now and then? And I still have...no clue how they pulled it off. Weird kind of feels like an understatement.”

Really, he had no idea how a bunch of fairies decided to be so blatantly bold with hundreds of humans going through. The release form was a contract, obviously, but...it was so risky! Using magic so obviously like that! What were they thinking?!

...but it had been kind of cool, if he hadn’t been so worried. 

Shuuichi laughed, taking another sip of of his drink, before saying fondly, “Yeah, it was something. It was a lot of fun though. I’m glad we did it… thanks again, Drake. I honestly… you showed up at a good time. I needed a friend right now.”

-

Kaito was washing Kokichi. 

He did this once a day. He didn’t want Kokichi to wake up sticky and dirty or smelling bad, and so, carefully, he gave Kokichi a… well, he supposed they were called ‘sponge baths’, but he used a few rags himself. He pulled the blanket aside and, making certain the door was locked, he’d strip Kokichi, part by part, never leaving his husband entirely naked because, well… Kaito worried he’d get cold. 

Careful to not jostle any of the tubes or wires, Kaito was working on Kokichi’s arms first, wiping carefully up and down Kokichi’s right arm and over his shoulder, making idle conversation as he observed, “Well, babe… I think it might be time to change out the sheets. Between the three of us,we’re all sweating into it, and I almost feel like cleaning ya and then putting back onto them is kind of a waste...hmmm… shoot, I don’t actually know where to find more sheets. One of the drawbacks of not having to make your own fresh bed, huh? Harder to do it yourself when ya just decide ya want too… I’ll have Waku show me where all that stuff is. Change it out later today, babe. Sorry you gotta be on dirty sheets all clean for an hour, but once I’ve got my hands on them? It’s gonna be clean bed city. That’s exciting to think about! I bet Shuuichi will appreciate it too.”

Wiping down Kokichi’s other side, Kaito continued, “Shuuichi’s not here cause he’s in his study. Ehhhh? Doesn’t that sound cool, Kokichi? Our Shuuichi has a study. He literally asked for one this morning, and the castle got him set up literally in, like, two hours. He’s still gotta, like, make the room his own, but he seemed so happy to have it… I’m happy for him. I think he was stressed out by the people all excited to see you every day, babe… heh. It’s got a desk in there. Shuuichi isn’t sure he can use it much in his current state, but he seemed to be excited to use it for school stuff in the future. I’m hoping he might make the foolish, foolish mistake of letting me in there with him with some chocolate and wine.” Kaito chuckled. “Help him study some anatomy and physical education.”

As Kaito chuckled over his own stupid joke, he, carefully, grasped the back of Kokichi’s neck, and brought him up a bit, wiping down his back as he cradled Kokichi to his shoulder, his husband entirely limp against him… he sighed. Grabbing a dry washcloth and drying his back, before carefully placing him back down, “...I’m mostly kidding. Haven't exactly been feeling all that frisky lately. Turns out, Kokichi, without you around to indulge my worst habits, I suddenly lack interest in… well, a lot of things… the world’s darker and duller, without you bouncing around in it, babe…”

Putting Kokichi’s shirt back on, he moved onto the legs. Wiping them down, Kaito hummed idly to himself for a bit…

“Kaede’s queen.” He told Kokichi. “Has anyone told you that yet? It’s not that big of news around here, but man, there’s a lot going on in Luminary. Lot going on… yeah, Kaede’s queen. Good for her. I’m sure she’s happy. I think a part of her has always wanted to be queen… heh. ‘Think’.” Kaito laughed, wiping down Kokichi’s feet, “I keep forgetting Kaede literally asked Maki to assassinate Byakuya. Man...I knew she was ambitious, but I didn’t think… oh well. Ooooh weellll~.”

More humming. Kaito started working on the other leg. 

“...Byakuya’s alive. That’s a good thing. To me. It’s good to me. I know everyone else wants him dead. Everyone in the wh~ooole wide world… heh. I’m happy. I’m thrilled! I’m thrilled, really. Byakuya’s alive, he and his family are going to Novoselic… I tried to… talk to him? Before he started traveling? H~eee refused my call. You know… maybe he’s mad at me? Because I lied about Maki’s intentions. And she… Maki made Kaede q~ueeen… I’d probably be mad at me too. Garbage Momota boy, lying to his own brother… what if he had died? ‘Kichi, what was I thinking? If he had died and I lied? I’d be… phew. Your Kaito would be a mess~.” 

Kaito laughed. It wasn’t a happy sound.

The red-headed prince finished Kokichi’s leg, and he started to work around his hips, his groin, his ass. Cleaning his husband everywhere. At one point he said, out of nowhere, “Thank god you weigh nothing, that makes this so much easier.” and then he just started laughing hysterically. He actually had to pause, stop and sit down for a second, just putting his hand on his face, giggling. 

Then he calmed down and, dropping his hand, murmured, “That’s not funny.”

He continued his work, humming some half remembered song to himself, finishing up Kokichi’s bottom half before putting his husbands drawers back on. Tubes undisturbed. Sooo many tubes, in so many places. 

“Kids coming soon. Couple of days. We got a message about it yesterday. They’re making great time… I’m hoping… maybe Maki’s coming too? Maybe? Wars over. Kaede’s queen. My family’s entirely destroyed. What else is there to do? Guess Kaede’s not entirely destroyed. Guess that’s a good thing. I love Kaede. She’s my cousin. I grew up with her. Grew up with Maki. My brother’s not dead. That’s… that’s good enough… he’s just, ya know. De-throned and disgraced and banished and…”

Kaito stilled, in the middle of taking a fresh rag and wiping down Kokichi’s face, his gaze distant and lost. “...man… the history books are going to have a field day with us… well, maybe historians won’t remember me at all. Just the crazy younger brother to the overthrown regicide tyrant. An interesting historical footnote. That’s your Kaito…”

Kaito blinked, struggling to pull himself back together, for a moment… before looking down at Kokichi. Relaxing a little, returning to finishing wiping down Kokich’s face, before leaning forward and placing a small kiss on his husbands forehead. “It’s okay. It’s all okay. I’m fine. I’ll be fine. You’ll be fine. Our Shuuichi will be fine. Everything’s fine. I’ll take care of us. I promise.”

Straightening up, Kaito made sure Kokichi looked comfortable, put the blanket back on on, and waited for someone to come back so he could go ask Waku where to find new sheets.

-

At some point, Kokichi had found the strength to put his hand over Alter Ego. And, hey! Every now and then, he managed to give the cat a few pets. And, and, more often now, you could actually see the edges of his bed, even if the rest of the room hadn’t quite come into view. But sometimes one of the drops would bring a splash of color--a beam of sunlight from the window, some miscellaneous items on their desk, a comfortable sitting chair…

Kokichi didn’t ‘wake’ that often. He needed the rest. But every now and then he would, and he and Alter Ego would share a few words about the persistent smell of flowers, or vague snippets of voices that filtered through his consciousness. Most often was Kaito’s, and Kokichi’s heart ached to see him again while being touched that his husband was so often at his side. Shuuichi was there quite a lot too, and Kokichi was quietly pleased to note Denji and Lake’s voices time to time. And...there were others on top of them too. He knew Temp came by, since he stopped by later to give Kokichi a clearer visit, but he heard Stacy and Amber, Waku and Hajime, he even caught a hum once that was definitely Ikuo. Lucky, since while Kokichi was sure his dad was there, it would be hard to pick out his voice and know for sure. 

...he was really loved. He had a lot of people waiting for him to wake up. He wanted to, but...it felt out of reach. And...there was nothing he could do but rest and wait. Maybe thankfully for Kokichi’s sanity, he often wasn’t ‘awake’ enough to be annoyed by that. 

“...how many flowers are even in my room?” he murmured. “The smell hasn’t faded at all…”

“Mmm… no idea…” Alter Ego stretched, their, ever so slightly, more solid body pressed tightly into Kokichi’s side, yawning. “Someone was singing earlier. Couldn’t tell who. And it rained… it’s nice. Rain and flowers and singing… it’ll be good when you get back. A nice environment, I think…wait.”

Alter Ego, for the first time in awhile, opened their golden eyes, raising their head, the impression of ears straight up, “...something’s out in the dark… did you make something?”

There was a… patter sound. Small, quick footsteps. Out in the distant dark, like someone was running a great distance. Each patter sound sounding a little wet, something running through the watercolor dribbles that was Kokchi’s not entirely solid or stable mindscape…

...a distant bell sound…

...bells?

Oh.

With extreme dedication, Chibi Kaito, the second his eyes had opened again, hearing Kokichi’s call, as faint as it was… he held the memory in his arms and, just, undaunted, navigated his way through the unstable and strange landscape, and felt his little heart soar as he realized he had actually made it without phasing out again, as he had every other time he had tried.

Ε=ε=ε=ε=ε=ε=┌(;　･`ー･´）✿

Huffing for his breath, Chibi Kaito, working out where the bed was, determinedly climbed up it, before with a proud, stern look on his face, he presented the small flower in his hand to the ball of light that was his Kokichi, giving him the requested memory. He had done it! He had made it! He hadn’t phased out!!

Alter Ego blinked at that… before saying softly, “That’s a good sign… your defenses are starting to come back, Kokichi. You’re getting stronger…”

The rain had been nice… It was so faint he could barely hear it, but when he could...it was very calming. He wished he could go over to the window and press his forehead against the glass, listen to it all afternoon...or whatever time it was. 

...but the sound now?

Kokichi responded with the feeling of, no, he hadn’t made anything--he could barely stay awake in his own mind, how could he make anything?--before… Kokichi ‘turned’, ‘looking’ out into the darkness around his bed, seeing distant little ripples come closer, listening to...to soft bell sounds. 

And…

“Kai-chan…”

A few drops fell on the bed, illuminating Kokichi’s hand reaching out, cupping Chibi Kaito’s head, and revealing his face, Kokichi’s smile wide though there were happy tears in his eyes. “Kai-chan...thank you…”

...what was Chibi Kaito doing all alone in the dark? He was part Alter Ego, so he had some structure, but...was he phased out too? He knew his husband was brave, but that sounded so horrible…

“Hun...do you want to stay here with us?” The color faded, the outlines of Kokichi’s body going away again, though the light of his being didn’t dim. “I’m sorry for leaving you alone… As soon as I can, I’ll fix space for you, alright?”

(￣▽￣)♥️

(　･`ー･´）

(　･`ー･´)_✿

Chibi Kaito was thrilled to see Big Kokichi again, as phasing in and out of existence for the last few days had been an… experience. But! As happy as he was, he was a defense with purpose! A mechanism! He had a job to do, dammit, and now that he was stable enough to not keep blipping entirely out of existence, he was going to do it! 

...after he rubbed his face against Kokichi’s hands for a bit.

Okay! Back to determined! 

Kokichi wasn’t strong enough to take the flower from Kaito, so the creature focused on it for a bit, exerting some ‘will’ of its own, before… finally the flower changed, flickering into a weak, small screen, which Kaito proudly displayed to Kokichi.

The image lit up, and in it, Kokichi took another hesitant little step, a baffled, somewhat overwhelmed look on his puffy little face, wide eyes mildly alarmed. Still, despite how strange it felt, two year old Kokichi determinedly tottered over to the flower patch, wanting to go inspect the colorful little plants, while behind him towered Ikou, carefully watching him, stepping closer behind him every time Kokichi managed any distance, ready to catch him if he needed it. Which he might. Walking was still coming slow, for the toddler, but he was getting there. 

As Kokichi managed to get to the little flower bed, he stood in front of it, a little… confused as to what he should do next, before finally settling on, with a thump, falling onto his butt, sitting in front of the plants before reaching forward to grab some, wanting a closer inspection. Ikou chuckled at this. He probably shouldn’t let Kokichi touch, the toddler likely to rip the flowers out of the soil… ah, well, a few bald spots in the flower bed wasn’t gonna hurt nobody. He’d replant something new there later.

As Kokichi did his inspection, Ikou looked around, sniffing the air… it was gonna rain soon. Could smell it. Would be able to see it in a moment. Ah well… it had been a nice day regardless…

Kokichi, in turn, marveled at a little pink flower he had managed to get his hands on. He had, literally, never seen anything like it before. It was stunning… above him, his caretaker started to hum to himself, and Kokichi was undisturbed as a few drops of water started to pat onto his head, still marveling at the pink flower… before the little toddler smiled wide. A delighted look on his face. He liked it. All of it. The flower, the hum, even the little cold patters. He liked it! 

Kokichi laughed. A happy, joyous giggle…

And then he pulled the flower and put it in his mouth. Easier to understand things, when they’re in your mouth.

With that the memory faded. Chibi Kaito letting it go, the flower returning to the collective. Proud of his delivery.

Kokichi couldn’t quite understand what Chibi Kaito wanted to give him the flower for--though it was a lovely gesture--but showing a memory was not even on the board of guesses. A memory he was only able to recall like this, its formation a little too early for Kokichi to think of naturally. 

...his dad… Seeing nature, being outside with people he loved, discovering things…

The ball of light went brighter briefly as Kokichi laughed, gaining enough strength for a moment to pull Chibi Kaito close and run a comforting hand down Alter Ego’s body. “Thank you...that was a lovely memory. And you came all this way to give it to me… I think we’re going to be spending a good bit of time here so...when I’m strong enough, what do you think about watching memories together? It would be a nice way to pass the time, I think…”

He wanted to get back to the physical world so badly...but there were things he could enjoy in his mind too. When he was tired of resting and wanted something a little brighter… There were plenty of simple, happy days to draw on.

ల(*´= ◡ =｀*)

Chibi Kaito leaned into the hold, incredibly pleased with this idea, cheerfully affirming his approval with soft, though excited, bell sounds. Big Kokichi was… both there and so… far away. Both the light and the room and the void Chibi Kaito had just barely managed to navigate. Big Kokichi was everywhere and nowhere, at once… but the strongest sense of him was right here. In the barest impression of a bed, next to that lilac light that, occasionally, outlined his husband again. 

And if Kaito wanted to be anywhere, it was with his husband.

So, he nestled in beside Alter Ego, who went back to laying down, closing their eyes, small purs coming through each breath. And as Chibi Kaito settled in, he thought happily of more memories he could bring up to comfort his ‘Kichi with. To ease his mind and bring him peace in the void.

Because it was his job. And because he loved him very much.

-

It was evening, just the two of them, Shuuichi off spending a little time in his office after seeing visitors all day. And...Ikuo wasn’t sure. He could tell that Kokichi hadn’t gotten the chance to talk to Kaito about it, but...he wasn’t sure if his son would be happy about him intervening. If it was something Kaito would even want to talk about, considering everything happening. 

...but sometimes when he had been on watch late at night, hoping for a group to return that they weren’t sure about...it had eased his mind to start planning out meals his comrades would enjoy. 

Ikuo had been quiet for a while, sitting by Kokichi’s bedside, when he tipped his head up a little, looking at Kaito. “...you good ta talk, son?”

Kaito looked up, mildly startled. At Ikou’s insistence, he had been sent off to do… something. Anything. Beyond fussing with the cleanliness of Kokichi, the room, the bathroom. Waku had shown him where to find the linen, and out of curiosity, Kaito had asked to see where they kept cleaning products too, and…

It was a little like that sense of peace he had found washing dishes at midnight for Chako. It had taken a bit of learning, Kaito having only a limited knowledge of cleaning products, but once he had read the labels? 

The bathroom was spotless. 

Literally spotless! He had checked! He had checked twice! Around the back of the toilet, under the lid, under the cabinets, in that little divider line near the top of the shower. Oh, sure, some things were taking a little more elbow grease than Others. There was some rust beneath the sink that seemed determined to elude him, but Kaito was planning to tackle that guy again later, with a damn metal brush. He just had to get his hands on one. And maybe some acid. 

Okay, fine, the bathroom was almost spotless then. He’d get that rust…

And, honestly, now he saw there were plenty of things to clean, when he really looked around. The window seal? Between where the window closed and the wall met? That could use some touching up… probably had dust on top of the bookcases… who knew what was behind the bed headboard…

But he wasn’t doing any of that, right now. He was taking a break, sitting by the window carefully painting one of his little figurines. It was a little fish person with a trident and a crown on its head. He had decided to paint the fish person red. It was a good color.

So, again, a little startled to be pulled out of red fish land, but… he grinned, “Course, Ikou. What’s up? Need me to fetch something?”

The man shook his head. “Nah. Jus’...” His voice trailed for a moment before returning. “Bunny came ta talk ta me ‘bout somethin’. Before his attack. ‘E said he was excited ‘bout talkin’ with you ‘bout it, but jus’ never found the righ’ time.”

Ikuo sat back in his chair, fingers drumming lightly on the armrest. “He was startin’ ta make plans fer Shuuichi’s birthday. Was plannin’ up a whole scavenger hunt ‘round th’ castle. Clues leadin’ ta places, ‘n such, an’ wanted it ta lead back here for a celebration.” He grunted softly, a fond laugh. “Had a whole map an’ was workin’ on the clues, last we talked.”

“...he’d prolly still wanna do it, when he wakes up. I can do footwork fer y’all, but...the ideas were ‘spposed ta be yours an’ his.”

“Oh… oh! Oh, uh… wow! That’s a great idea! Aw, ‘Kichi…” Kaito laughed, giving his husband a fond, if exasperated look, “That’s such a cute idea. What a sweetheart… well, um, shoot… do you know how far he got with it? If he wrote down his ideas anywhere?”

“He was workin’ in his journal. I think he got stuck on places ta write about, since he wanted ta talk ta you ‘bout if Shuuichi weren’t feelin’ up ta mosein’ ‘round,” Ikuo nodded to the journal on the bookshelf in the corner. Things had gotten shifted around to make room for the flowers and Kokichi’s equipment, and...well. It wasn’t like he was writing in it right now. 

“Bunny really loves birthdays,” Ikuo hummed. “Always tried ta go all out fer folks, despite insistin’ that it weren’t a big deal. He likes makin’ people feel special an’ like the anniversary of their life is worth celebratin’. Always sent me a letter an’ a drawin’ fer mine while I was away… Little sunshine.”

“Heh, yeah. We went walking around for mine, and half the time I think he was worried it wouldn’t be enough. Jokes on him, I had a fucking blast.” Kaito chuckled, getting up and, putting down his figurine carefully, grabbing the journal from the book shelf, opening it up and saying aloud, “Probably the last few pages, right?”

Shuffling through, curious about the little doodles and pages and pages of notes Kokichi had written to himself, but not quite willing to read through them without his husbands permission, Kaito found…

He frowned a little. “Man.. this is a little more than a few ideas. I’m surprised Kokichi was working this much at it and never got around to telling me… little guys full of surprises, huh.” He mused, going to grab one of the chairs at the side of the bed, leaning back in it and, with a small whistle, reading through them, “Hmmm...oh, I see what you mean. Almost everything’s inside the castle. Kokichi wasn’t sure Shuuichi would be up to going into town, huh?”

Ikuo adjusted his hat, giving a nod. “Said he thought it’d turn inta more of a chore if everything was real spread out. Gives more of a pattern fer Shu’chi ta find, but that was a point Bunny was willin’ ta concede. Didn’ wanna have y’all goin’ up and down th’ castle all day either, fer the same point.”

...Ikuo had the mind to not mention that Kokichi had come to him after they had gotten the news about the food in Luminary. Kokichi had wanted to talk to Kaito for a while, but...right then, it really didn’t feel like a good time. Even now Ikuo wasn’t sure, but...he loved his son, and he knew that even if he wasn’t up to snuff, Kokichi still wanted Shuuichi to have a fun birthday. 

“He left Shuuichi’s gift with me, so I can deliver ‘em whenever. Think this’d be somethin’ yer guy’d like?”

“Normally? Absolutely. Shuuichi would love this idea, I think it’d tickle him pink.” Kaito grinned, liking clue number three. That was cute… then he conceded, “Right now? Especially if Kokichi…” Kaito glanced at Kokichi, before adjusting his thoughts, “Well, of course Kokichi will be awake by then. But, I think some of the fun in it for Shuuichi would be getting to show off to Kokichi him solving his puzzles, more than anything. I think if Kokichi couldn’t enjoy it too, Shuuichi wouldn’t really get anything out of it. My guy… heh. He’s the proudest insecure person you’ve ever met. He’d adore getting to show off how clever he is… what a good idea…”

Kaito looked fondly over at Kokichi-- his other, clever man-- before sighing, “If Kokichi’s not up and awake by Shuuichi’s birthday though? He’s just gonna reuse to do it. I can already tell. Too much effort… still! Nothing wrong with preparing for the best case scenario, right? I’ll go ahead and polish this up, you and I will set it up the day of, and if everyone’s up and able to do it? Hell yeah, a scavenger hunt birthday is a great idea!”

It would be...scary if Kokichi was still in his coma by the time Shuuichi’s birthday rolled around. Not out of the question, but every day that Kokichi still didn’t stir was scary. But even if he woke up tomorrow, he’d likely still need help getting around to do the scavenger hunt. Easy enough to set up, though. 

Fixing his cap again, Ikuo grunted. “Got it. Jus’ lemme know any supplies or set up ya might need, an’ I’ll do what I can ta make it happen. ...hm. He’s still gon’ pout that he didn’t get ta help set it up, even with it bein’ his idea. Jus’ loves gettin’ his li’l mitts over everything.”

“...he’ll wake up. He always has.”

“Yeah, of course he will.” Kaito agreed immediately, honestly, no real doubt in the statement. He knew Kokichi was going to wake up. He was stable and alive and he’d wake up… and, well…

If it was anything like all the other times Kaito’s seen so far, there’s be a period of time where Kokichi was up but… kind of only just. In and out, randomly falling asleep, looking at you but not really hearing what you were saying. Kokichi would wake up, and then they’d start that process. That was what Kaito was really worried about, when it came to Kokichi missing some events.

...but! 

“He will, but he doesn’t need to hurry. Our ‘Kichi just needs more rest. Sure, some of that rest might keep him away from some stuff he’d really like to do… but! There will be more opportunities to do fun, amazing things! And he won’t miss all of them! Just maybe a few, when he needs to take it easy. There’s nothing wrong with that. He’s okay, either way.” Kaito said, mostly assuring himself, as he rested the journal on his lap, leaning back and looking at the ceiling with a small, “Mhm...we’re gonna take our time and be careful and be supportive and get him back to 100%. No problem.”

Looking up at the ceiling for a bit… “I imagine it was challenging, raising Kokichi. For a lot of reasons.”

There were always more things to look forward to...but it hurt Kokichi every time he had to miss one. When he’d be excited for a festival, because he’d missed the last one, only to get sick again. But looking forward to the future was all they could do. 

“Rewardin’,” Ikuo said without hesitation. “But raisin’ a kid is hard. Ain’t everybody suited fer it. Still…’Kich’ has his own complications.”

“But he’s a good kid. An’ no tantrum or collapse or hurtful thing has made me regret it. Now, I couldn’ imagine my life without Bunny in it. He’s my kid an’ I wouldn’ have it any other way.”

Ikuo sighed softly, watching the peaceful look on his son’s face. “...used ta eat flowers all the time as a tot. Fine most of th’ time, but damn near scared th’ life outta me when he almost ate a bee.”

Kaito snorted at that. “Can’t convince the guy to eat brustle sprouts without making a face at me first, here you are telling me he was eating bees. Ridiculous.”

“...was going to war worth it?” Kaito asked softly. Staring up at the ceiling.

Honestly, Ikuo was amazed Kokichi ate vegetables with only minimal cajoling these days. Little brat didn’t mind the taste at all and just wanted the drama. Unbelievable. 

...he sighed. “Goin’ at all? Yea. But I shouldn’t’ve been gone for as long as I was, an’ I shouldn’ve left when I did.” Ikuo sighed again, giving the still form of his son a guilty look. “I did my part an’ I’m proud ta have. But...Bunny needed me more here. An’ I hated every day I was away.”

“I should’ve waited ‘til he was older, an’ only stayed fer a year or two. I felt like I needed ta protect him that way...but his heart needed more protectin’ at home. Ain’t the same now that he’s all grown, but...he still has room fer his dad, so I wanna keep bein’ it. Never too late ta love someone.”

Kaito nodded, “Yeah… sorry, I know that was a weird question. Stuff like that has been on my mind a lot lately. The difference between, like… love and duty and who needs you and what matters and… stuff. I feel like my mind changes about it every few seconds. Miyako coming up sometimes only makes me more confused…”

“...Kokichi loves you. Like, the guy loves you… but I found myself in a position once where I had to assure him that you leaving was a good thing. I really believed it when I said it too. I told him we would have burned you all, had you not gone to defend him from us… I was in a weird headspace. Angry at…” Kaito waved vaguely, “everything. Everyone. So, yeah. I told him you had to go, or we would have burnt you all.”

“...I thought, for a long time, that going away at the call of duty? Quests, war, adventure, whatever… that it was the greatest thing a person could do. That choosing to leave behind the ‘comforts’ of home and family to fight the good fight was the bravest, most noble decision a person could make. That it trumped everything else.”

“...now just the idea of Kokichi even just… emotionally leaving the family behind to go chase some duty or another scares the fucking shit out of me… and Maki leaving makes me resent her… it sounds selfish and self-centered to me, now… but when my brother surrendered? I was both… proud and disappointed, in him. Proud because he did his duty and saved the city at his own detriment. Disappointed because he turned away from his duty to save his own life, fleeing the country… I think a part of me wanted him to insist he’d die before giving up the throne…”

Kaito blinked, before straightening up. Giving Ikou a strained, sheepish grin. “Sorry! Sorry! That’s too much information. My bad man. I was cleaning a lot earlier, then painting… think the fumes have gotten to me a bit.”

“S’difficult. Don’ think anyone has a perfect answer.” Ikuo looked at his son. Still such a youthful face, but...ten years. He’d missed ten years of growth and while it hadn’t been for nothing, it had been something that someone else could’ve done. His presence hadn’t been a decision maker. Had he still been at Kokichi’s side...it probably would’ve been there. 

“Sometimes, leavin’ fer duty is the right thing. It’s hard...but lotta folks comfort themselves with the notion that if it’s hard, then what they’re leavin’ is worth protectin’. And sometimes...the threat yer protectin’ against is at yer door. So you shouldn’t leave. Sometimes the threat just...ain’t threatenin’ enough ta weigh ‘gainst home an’ family. The answer’s different fer ev’ryone an’ every sit’tation ‘cause everybody got different scales.” Ikuo crossed an ankle over his knee, the look in his eyes, if you could see beyond the shadow, was thoughtful. “Gotta consider what’cha find worth fightin’ for. And what you’d actually achieve with that fightin’.”

For him, the first question was incredibly easy. It had just taken him far too late to figure out the second. 

Ikuo gave his son-in-law a considering look. “...he’s goin’ ta stay with yer folks in Novoselic, right? That’s enough info ta send a letter. Ain’t pretendin’ ta know yer relationship, but it sounds ta me y’all need ta talk.”

“What? Tell him I kinda thought he should die instead of give up his claim? Ikou, man, I appreciate ya, but that sounds crazy to me.” Kaito said dryly, shaking his head, “More than that… it’s cruel, ya know? A letter from his brother, saying you should have opted for execution… I don’t know if I even actually feel that way. I was just… philosophising. Talking aloud. I don’t know. I shouldn’t have said it in the first place.”

Kaito rubbed the back of his neck, annoyed with himself now. He really shouldn’t have said that out loud. What was he thinking… it was a cruel thing to think, let alone say. Especially to Ikou. The man was nice, and Kaito was fond of him as his husbands father, but the two of them weren’t close. And that had been a bombshell to drop on the older man out of nowhere. Dumb…

“Well… while I agree you probably shouldn’t have been gone a decade, I’ll still argue you were right to go to battle. We really were setting out to do some damage. But you guys did a really good job keeping us held up at the border. Seriously, for fifteen years? It’s insane how good of a fight you all put up. Diceans are something else.”

Ikuo huffed, a good-natured chuckle. “I’m sure a talk like that would be nuts, but I didn’ mean sayin’ that literally, kiddo. I’m sayin’ that at least from what it sounds like ta me? You two have real different view of what the world looks like. I know Bunny don’ much like yer brother, but if you wanted ta keep up a relationship, that’s a big thing ta know ‘bout someone. Might be worth talkin’ about.”

Then again...it had taken a threat of mass starvation to get Kaito’s brother to listen to the revolutionaries. If he was anything like the more high-falutin folk Ikuo had seen...maybe it would be more like Kaito trying to reach out to a brick wall. 

The older man sighed, thinking about his time in the war. By the time it had broken into a war, the Luminary forces had started to take the terrace farms in the mountains. And little by little, the two forces had pushed back against each other, swaying from side to side but...pretty much staying around the border. The mountains helped, and the Diceans knew the area well, but…

“Stubborn to a fault, some might say,” Ikuo hummed. “Desperate ta keep things locked. Really, if anything had been different, could’ve seen us losin’ badly… But we’re here now, an’ tryin’ ta build forward. All folks can hope for, after a war.”

Kaito nodded at that. “Yeah, guess that’s all you can do… I’ll be honest, everything I know about the war comes from textbooks and the war board ranting about what giant pains in the asses you guys are.” Kaito chuckled, giving Ikou a somewhat mischievous look. “Like, I don’t know if this would make you happy, but you definitely raised the blood pressure of a lot of powerful people.” 

“I remember, when I was… I don’t know… thirteen? I was wandering around near the war tower, and General Juuzo came out, looked around, saw me? And just grabbed me. Pulled me up the tower by my arm, threw me into the war room, and made these three brigade leaders and made them explain to me the mission specs they were reporting? And I was really confused, wondering why everyone was so angry as this one brigade general showed the route these figurines were supposed to go through on this big, detailed map of the border we had in there? The man’s face was bright red and he was sweating buckets, and I couldn’t tell if he wanted to scream at us or piss himself, but either way he was furious. So I’m listening to the plan, and Juuzo put his hand on the back of my neck and said, Prince Kaito, can you see the major issue with this plan? Take a good long look at the board, don’t overthink it…”

Kaito rubbed the back of his neck subconsciously, as he recalled, “And the general pushed his thumb into the back of my nape and I could feel the direction he was silently pointing me to look…” Kaito laughed, raising his eyes brow at Ikou, “You guys broke a whole dam?? And completely flooded out our ambush?? I found out later that was why everyone was so freaked out and pissed, because the ambush had already gone bad and the general was trying to prove that even a ‘child’ could see what would have gone wrong. Like… I don’t know if I would have realized there was a dam reservoir right above the ambush sight if General Juuzo hadn’t been literally shoving my face into it, but still! I thought that was clever! Drown the ambush by breaking the dam… wow. That was really clever… actually! Oh, I wonder if I asked, if anyone would tell me who your informants were? I’m so curious!”

Kaito looked, genuinely, excited as he said, “It always seemed like you guys always knew exactly when and where our troops were going, all our plan specs, everything. We tried everything to contain the information and there were a thousand theories how it was getting through, but nothing was ever proven. I don’t know if you have any idea? It can’t hurt for me to know now, right? I mean, it’s probably classified… still, man… what a pain in the ass it was, fighting you guys.” Kaito laughed, leaning back… before admitting, “Glad I didn’t have to do it. I’d have never spotted that dam myself.”

There was something satisfying about knowing what pains in the ass the Dicean militia had managed to be to an organized military. Ikuo didn’t begrudge the soldiers he’d fought against--especially after becoming a little more familiar with those that defected--but the leadership? He could be happy about sticking it to them. 

Sighing, Ikuo shook his head a little. “After the first few years, we were...less concerned ‘about causin’ surroundin’ damage. ‘Course tried not to involve the folks not fightin’, but...we knew what a disadvantage we were at. So usin’ somethin’ like a dam to our advantage was jus’...what we had ta do. Gon’ take a while to repair everything now, though…”

Huffing an empty note of a laugh, Ikuo lifted the brim of his cap a little to give Kaito a look. “Wish I could trade some secrets to ya, but I never found out about our informants, an’ I still don’t know who all th’ admins are talkin’ to in Luminary. But the messages we always got from Mikaku and folks were always...harebrained. Crazy stuff. But...it kept us in the race.”

“...glad I didn’t fight’cha either, kid. I like’cha much more as family than as an enemy.” He hated seeing kids on the battlefield period. Kids like Kaito, just young people that were likely conscripted right out of school, and...literal kids like Tim. The sort of sight that had always made the militia members’ blood run cold. Everyone had done things they regretted in that war. Made moral sacrifices, knew that, if they returned home at all, they’d be different people. But no one wanted to kill a kid…

Yeah, a lot of people died over that plan failing. Including, Kaito knew, that brigadier, though officially the man had died to food poisoning. Juuzo didn’t like losing entire squads to stupidity.

Kaito didn’t feel much of anything, about that memory. He wondered if he should. 

“Yeah, same.” He said, sighing. He looked the older man over. Hmmm… “So, Ikou. Traveling performer turned… housekeeper, then nanny, then soldier, then housekeeper again. Kind of an interesting life path. Seems sort of all over the place. Why go from performer to housekeeper at the castle?”

“Learnt my lesson, ‘sppose ya could say,” the older man hummed, sensing the end of the conversation. “Took up with th’ Bunny Men fer adventure an’ excitement. Wanted more than farmlife. Then got a li’l older an’ realized I wanted more stability. Hours I knew an’ an address ta call my own--an’ coworkers that weren’t all aboard th’ drama train. Housekeepers have their own gossip, ‘a course, but it’s easier ta live with.”

“Knew I didn’ wan’ head back home, so I came ta th’ capital, an...well, the castle’s always hirin’. Specially in those days. Knew I didn’ have the brain fer paperwork, so I chose ta work with my hands. Got past the interviews an’ jus’...worked. Can’t tell ya what made Aiichi an’ Miyako look at me more when they were makin’ more plans fer Kokichi.” But he was thankful for it. Ikuo had no idea what his life would’ve looked like if he hadn’t become a nanny. 

Maybe he would’ve tired of housekeeping and swung back on the pendulum to excitement, finding a new section of his life anyway. Maybe not. Regular life these days had enough excitement for him, though he could concede that his ‘regular’ life was rather uncommon. 

Kaito thought of the way Kokichi carefully said ‘nanny’ when he was referring to Ikou with other people. Kokichi had explained it to him, once. Their fear that Aiichi or someone else would think… something. Kaito couldn’t recall. Just a general sense of ‘bad thing’ if people knew Kokichi actively called Ikou ‘daddy’. He wondered if it had been Ikou who had insisted they needed to hide the familiar relationship, or if that was something his husband had decided for himself. He wondered, if they were still hiding it, if Aiichi knew that he had actively been replaced, in Kokichi’s mind. Kaito sometimes got the sense everyone else knew. 

Kaito thought of Miyako just… deciding that someone else was her parent, and dismissing Kaito entirely, and Kaito felt uneasy at the idea. Sad… how had Aiichi let it get that bad? How?? Kokichi had seemed to have virtually no one in his life, growing up, and out of the mere handful of people he was competing with, Aiichi still hadn’t placed in the ‘parent’ category. 

How do you fail that badly?

Ikou had left for a decade and Aiichi still hadn’t been able to compete. Kokichi calling Ikou ‘daddy’ a decade later while Aiichi had been referred to with open scorn and resentment. Literally no competition through Kokichi’s entire teen years… and still hadn’t managed a place in Kokichi’s life.

...Kokichi wasn’t going to be like Aiichi. He had already promised. He had sworn. Miyako wasn’t going to grow up openly resenting him and denouncing him. 

Kaito could just…. Hope he didn’t give their daughter a reason to replace him with a nanny someday too. He doubted Aiichi had done it on purpose. He doubted his own father (and, well, mother) had been there so little for him on purpose too. Everyone probably thought they were going to be a great parent, when the kid was first being born. Devoted. Available. A teacher and a protector… right? Certainly they had all felt this way about their own children too. What other way was there to feel?

How do you fail that badly?

“You’re an easy to like guy. Reliable. I imagine it was easy to trust you with their child.” Kaito mused. Before grinning, “Besides, you come with a bunch of, like, handmade toys and stuff. That’s a deal, man. Smug Rabbit has lasted forever.”

Ikuo grunted, bashfully covering his face more with his cap, though it did take him a second to figure out what the hell Kaito meant by ‘Smug Rabbit’. “Kids need toys,” he shrugged. “Sure, the ones ya can buy are fine, and someone made ‘em, but…”

But there was a feeling that welled up inside him when he thought about a child that needed a toy, or a blanket, or any number of little things kids needed, because people needed things, and kids most of all. And that feeling spurred him to create, making seams he could hide so they wouldn’t be rough and choosing soft, bright, friendly fabrics and making sure the stuffing would squish just right when a kid held it close and… There wasn’t much a greater joy that he had watching Kokichi cuddle and hug the stuffed animals he made him. 

“Hm,” he grunted. “Think that’s more on Bunny’s end. Kids’ll be rough, but he was always careful with his toys. Brought ‘em to be cleaned immediately if ‘e spilled juice on ‘em durin’ a tea party, was always gentle if they got ripped. He was a sensitive, gentle kid.”

There was a certain twitch in Ikuo’s lips as he looked over at Kokichi--a wide grin. “Not much has changed, as ya can see.”

“Pf. Tea parties.” Kaito chuckled, “I am absolutely teasing Kokichi with that one when he wakes up. Gonna set up a whole damn tea party. Invite all of his stuffed animals. Start spreading some mean rumors between them, spike Smug Rabbits drink, watch the inevitable fireworks.”

“Kid loved tea parties,” Ikuo snorted, amused with Kaito’s plan. “Dunno if he’d find that hilarious or heartbreakin’.”

He looked back over at his son. “Guess we’ll find out soon.”

-

It started small. Kokichi’s expression had been blank and unmoving since they brought him home, but that morning, there was a small crease between his eyebrows. His expression furrowing slightly almost like...he was focused on something. 

The way the heart monitor started to pick up was a more obvious clue. 

...the smell of flowers, still fresh. He felt kind of...numb. And tired. And weak… But he wanted to wake up. He wanted to see his family, even if he just went back to sleep. 

...he wanted to turn that weird beeping off. 

Kokichi’s eyes fluttered, once, twice, not quite able to open, until they did a sliver, his eyes unfocused and bleary in the light. He sighed, about as close as he could get to calling out. 

...Kaito? Shuuichi?

Kaito was in that hazy ‘maybe awake, maybe asleep’ phase. It was the middle of the night. Shuuichi was curled up next to Kokichi, and Kaito was sitting at the window seat, not wanting to allow himself to drowse off too deeply. Something could go wrong. They couldn't all be asleep if it did. And Kaito was not about to ask his pregnant boyfriend to stay awake all night. 

So Kaito’s solution was to be asleep, but in positions that made it too difficult to sleep deeply. Like the window seat. 

As he was pulled out of a hectic, confusing dream where he was struggling to hold onto a wall while an incredibly fierce wind blew, while two nearby puppets made idle and often sarcastic commentary on his progress, Kaito blinked awake, something disturbing his sleep. What was…

Heart monitor. 

Shaking the sleep off, Kaito was up in a heartbeat, literally. Rushing over to the bed, his eyes checked over Kokichi, glancing at the heart monitor, a fear gripping him. Change could be bad. Was he regressing?

But, no, the beap was still steady. Just a little faster. Like… “‘Kichi?” Kaito called gently, now that he was calmed down looking closer at Kokichi’s face.

His heart fucking leapt into his throat when he saw the barest slivers of purple looking back at him. Kaito leaned down, placing a gentle, somewhat shaky hand against the side of his husbands face, as he said, “Oh my god… hey!” He said. Not loud enough to alarm, but just… overwhelmed as he felt a shaky grin spread over his face, his eyes burning already as he said, “H-hey. Hey, babe… Kokichi… good morning, beautiful. Hey, you’ve been… can you hear me? Y-you’ve been asleep for a bit, beautiful...”

Kaito had so many things he needed to do next. He had to wake Shuuichi. He had to go tell the healers. He had to start prepping the tea… but Kokichi might not be able to stay awake, and Kaito just wanted too… “Hey, beautiful… I love you so much… everything’s okay…”

...Kaito…

“...K…” Kokichi’s throat, dry and unused for the past week, could only make a click as he tried to call out to the slightly blurry red figure of his husband. Kokichi wished so badly to reach out and cup Kaito’s cheek, to rub his thumb against his face and start smoothing away that worried look--why was he so worried?--but… His limbs didn’t seem to work. His arm barely twitched. 

As it was, Kokichi could barely press into the warmth of Kaito’s hand against his cheek. So warm… 

Kokichi blinked slowly, taking in a breath and trying to speak again. “...ov… K… t...u…”

Oh god dammit, don’t cry, you have shit to do.

“Okay… alright, you don’t have to stay awake, beautiful, but Shuuichi’s gonna stay with you, and I’m gonna go get your healers. They might want to look at you. You’re okay. Everything’s okay. We’re just gonna double check you and you can get some more rest. I’ll be right back, beautiful.” Kaito promised, leaning in and placing a kiss against Kokichi’s temple, despite what he was saying just… hoping this wouldn’t be the last time he’d see Kokich awake for awhile, before he pulled himself away.

Quickly, Kaito went to the other side of the bed, shaking Shuuichi awake, “Handsome, Shuuichi, bud. Wake up, wake up-”

Grumbling.

“Kokichi’s awake. Stay with him, I’m running for the healers.”

This got Shuuichi up, golden eyes immediately looking up at Kaito, his body already shifting up as, far more alert, Shuuichi said, “Kokichi’s up?”

Kaito nodded, but didn’t have time, already heading out. Rushing downstairs, determined to get whoever was on duty.

Shuuichi, in turn, shifted over. Pushing Kokichi’s bangs out of his face and looking him over, Kokichi’s eyes currently closed, but his face clearly different. Not as still, the lids fluttering and his mouth pressing against itself, likely thirsty. 

Unlike Kaito, Shuuichi led with the kiss, pressing it gently against the center of his forehead, before whispering, “Welcome back, Kokichi. We missed you.”

There was a flurry of activity, and...really, it was too much for Kokichi to keep track of. Darkness fell over his gaze again, but...he didn’t want to go back to the void. It was comfortable with Alter Ego and Chibi Kaito, and there had been more color lately, but...he wanted to be awake. 

Kokichi’s eyes fluttered open again as he felt soft lips against his forehead, Shuuichi’s voice feeling like an anchor to the physical world. Chibi Kaito wasn’t quite the same as Big Kaito, but he’d been a comfort. Kokichi hadn’t had Shuuichi at all in the void. 

A bit of a squeak came out of Kokichi’s throat as he tried to lean into Shuuichi’s touch, wanting so badly to embrace his boyfriend. “...huu...t… love...ng…”

“...wha...nd…”

“It’s been seven days. Almost eight.” Shuuichi said matter of factly, feeling like he had a limited amount of time to fill Kokichi in. “You had a heart attack during yoga with Dr. Cedar, but Nazumi got you to Seiko within minutes, who took very good care of you. You are in recovery and stable. You are okay, there is nothing to worry about.”

Shuuichi leaned his head against Kokichi’s. Just wanting to give him body heat, affection, without smothering his boyfriend beneath his heavy body. “We’re going to watch over you. Kaito is right. Take all the time you need to rest, there’s no hurry. I love you Kokichi.”

...he had an attack? But… All the sessions were supposed to stop something like this. The months of feeling like garbage and having her do such weird things...it was supposed to be so...he wouldn’t worry his family anymore. Eighty...so he could make it to eighty…

Kokichi’s eyes slipped closed again, his mouth pulling down into a frown and, for a moment, the heart monitor sped up, but with a dry swallow that provoked a light cough and a deep breath, it evened. 

“N...s’rry… Wan… Love ou…”

Shuuichi felt his own heart uptick when the monitor did, but he kept the anxiety off his face, saying evenly and softly, “You don’t have to be sorry. Nothing to be sorry for. You just need to rest…”

Shuuichi, unfortunately, was immediately proven wrong as in suddenly swept the healers on duty, Kaito trailing behind them as Shuuichi was shoo’d away from Kokichi so that they could start the process of looking over him. Kaito coaxed Shuuichi to sit over by the window seat with him as the two watched, Shuuichi leaning his head against Kaito’s shoulder, just sort of sad and tired now, while Kaito stiffened, swallowing with anger as, once again, he felt irrationally frustrated watching them all over his husband. Checking his temperature, the monitor, the tubes, asking him simple questions and shining a light in his eye.

After a moment, one of the doctors took out a needle and, swiftly, injected it into his arm. Explaining as they went, “Just something light to help with the pain he’ll start to feel in his back. Your body being completely still for this long comes with some aches and pains. Once he can manage to move his limbs, they’ll start complaining at him.”

“How soon can we start to take that stuff off of him?” Kaito asked, indicating the various tubes.

“Not yet. Give it another day. Maybe tomorrow afternoon, depending on how he’s doing.” Said the same healer, before turning to their companion, “I’m gonna go send a messenger to Dr. Kimura. You have it from here?”

“Got it,” the other healer nodded, already in the process of ever so slowly and carefully feeding Kokichi some water. The prince kept tensing his throat, pressing his lips together, and the rasps of his breaths...he was thirsty, and, well, getting a little water into him would probably make it easier for Kokichi to answer any questions. 

Mostly, Kokichi just needed to rest, and take his medicine when he was awake. But especially after being comatose for so long, they needed to make sure there wasn’t any extra damage being done to his body. Not every test could be done, but they could get a ballpark to work from. 

The prince seemed about as aware as you could expect, and while he said his body was numb, it wasn’t totally devoid of sensation, so that was relieving. He could feel poking in his fingers and toes, but when the healer was testing his reflexes… They frowned, before finally leaving Kokichi be. “We’ll check in on this later… It’s good to see you again, Prince Kokichi. Please rest well.”

Turning to Kaito and Shuuichi, the healer gave them a respectful nod. “We’ve given him a concentrated amount of his medicine, so he should be set through the rest of the night, and you shouldn’t have to scramble in the morning either. Like usual, feed him his tea every time he wakes up, about every four hours if he’s awake more often. He’ll likely be particularly dehydrated this time, so making sure he has water as well is a priority. You already know the rest of his care plan so…”

They sighed softly, offering the two a hopeful smile. “We’ll send someone with a teapot in the morning, so you two can rest. Please let us know if anything unusual happens, or if you need help. Goodnight, Prince Kaito, Mr. Shuuichi.”

Kaito walked the healers out, thanking them again, before sighing as he closed the door, Shuuichi carefully crawling back into bed with Kokichi.

“...we should let him go back to sleep.” Kaito said softly, watching Shuuichi go immediately back to gently petting Kokichi’s hair out of his face, gazing down at him.

“He’ll go to sleep on his own.” Shuuichi said, leaning in to place another kiss against his forehead, “I just want to look at him for a bit. Do you mind, Kokichi?”

Kaito had to suppress another sigh. Asking Kokichi questions was specifically what he was worried about. Kokichi needed to be allowed to go back to sleep. Kaito was acutely aware that the next time Kokichi opened his eyes, Kaito was going to have to coax him into staying awake long enough to drink his tea. It was gonna be a whole process that broke his heart, every damn time, again. He wanted Kokichi to relax while Kaito was in a position to let him.

Kokichi had laid through the healers’ poking and prodding...maybe not admirably, since he couldn’t do anything, but he did his best to comply with whatever they needed. That’s just...what life had been for a long time. Doing whatever the healers said. Not having a choice otherwise, unless he wanted to cause a scene, and even if he did he still lost. 

Then things had changed and he did have a choice. And...because of that…

Kokichi sighed softly as he felt Shuuichi’s fingers in his hair again, lips twitching into a soft smile. “...wanna be with...Shuu-chan an’...Kai-chan… I dreamt Kai-chan gave me a flower…”

That was too much for Kaito. 

He didn’t make a sound. But he leaned back against the door and covered his face with his hands, gripping the roots of his hair, trying not to make any sound or breath or anything that would clue Kokichi in that tears were streaming down his face. His shoulders tense and shaking and just-

While Kaito had his quiet meltdown at the door, Shuuichi glanced at him, but following his cue, tried not to draw any attention to it, looking back at Kokichi evenly, still playing with Kokichi’s hair as he gave him a small, soft smile. “Yeah? That sounds nice… probably all the flowers we have around here. You’ve been very popular this last week. Amber, Stacy and Temp decided to make it some personal goal to change our room into a forest. You’ll be able to see it better in the light, tomorrow. Our room looks like a garden…”

“Love flowers… That’s really...nice of them…” Kokichi sighed, his eyes closed as he let himself just focus on the fingers in his hair, letting other things fall away. “...ate the one in the dream… Someone was humming… It was raining…”

A few soft breaths before they were replaced with snuffles, the heart monitor slowing down again. 

“Those sound like good dreams…” Shuuichi complimented softly, still keeping up the gentle pets as he watched Kokichi fall away. Leaning in to give him another kiss against his forehead. Somehow finding it easier to be the calm and strong one, while Kaito fell apart at the door. Easier to rise to the call, when you realize no one else could do it. Made you feel brave…

“...Kaito, you should come to bed.” Shuuichi said softly after a while.

Kaito just glumly nodded, wiping off his face, feeling dizzy and exhausted and just… overwhelmed. But! But… Kokichi had woken up. That was a good thing. That was a great thing. Kokichi had woken up… the first part was done. This next part, however long it’d last, would be done someday too. They’d get through it. Back to repair work! They had this! They could do it! Everything would be okay!

Kaito took a shaky, somewhat too deep breath, before heading off to bed. Still not quite sure if it was really okay to sleep, and not really having a say in it one way or another, his body never quite letting him stay awake, never quite letting him truly drift off, as he listened carefully to the beep of the machine, and felt the warmth of Kokichi’s arm in his hand, laying beside him.

-

It really was more or less textbook, how the next few days went. Kokichi would stir every few hours, sometimes more coherent than others, and either Kaito or Shuuichi, generally, would get some tea into him and he’d try to talk for a little bit, but would drift off before too long. But, gradually, he was waking up more often, able to stay up for longer. Able to wiggle his fingers and toes, though haltingly, to the healers’ relief. And, after a little while, he was staying awake long enough that they could do away with the feeding tube, though Kokichi wasn’t always thrilled to eat. 

It was the middle of the afternoon, about a week and a half after his attack, when Kokichi sighed, already a dose of tea down but not looking like he was heading right back off to sleep. 

“...We’ve missed two weeks of sessions with Dr. Mariah now, haven’t we. I don’t even remember what I was supposed to do…”

“We were meant to take each others advice, I believe. Or at the very least ask each other for advice.” Shuuichi recited immediately, only because he remembered immediately, looking up from his book as he laid in bed next to Kokichi, just chilling out with him for now. “And discuss it at the next session… I imagine after three weeks, or however long it’s going to be, she’ll want to talk about something else.”

“I don’t know. Dr. Mariah’s always stressing that her sessions are meant to be like one long, continues conversation. She might not care there was such a break.” Kaito mused, putting the tea back on the desk, before starting to wipe down the areas around the flowers. Amber and Stacy had been by yesterday to water them, and this time had actually managed to see Kokichi when he was awake, but it had literally just been for about five minutes before the guy was out again. They were hoping for better luck next time.

Hajime had been by this morning, delivering the mail, asking how things were. Kaito had looked at the mail and twitched, not really wanting Kokichi to even think about working right now, but resisted the urge to just tell Hajime to bring them to Nadya instead. Poor Nadya had had the office to herself for a long minute now. 

Kaito would bring the letters up later, and hopefully Kokichi himself would just be like ‘bring them to Nadya’ or to the admin team. 

Wiping down the area a little, Kaito headed back to Kokichi, giving him a bright grin as he asked, “How we feeling, babe? Need anything specific?”

Advice… Well, talking about how to keep each others’ hopes up when they got the news about Luminary might count. But for other things...hopefully she would be understanding that, well, Kokichi couldn’t really ask things of people when he was unconscious. 

And...it might be even more time until they saw her, unless Kaito and Shuuichi wanted to go, which, to Kokichi slight fondness and slight exasperation, he knew they wouldn’t, because they hated leaving him alone. But he just...didn’t feel up to deep conversations like that. Deep diving into his perceptions and expectations of his partners felt...way too exerting right now. He just wanted to remind them that he loved them, and ask for immediate needs. 

Like now. 

Kokichi smiled up at his husband, indeed feeling cheerier with all the flowers around. “Could you hold my hand for a little bit? Don’t wanna keep you to one area, but...I’d like it.” He still couldn’t reliably lift his arms, but he could gently hold a hand back, and the warmth of his partners’ hands eased the chill in his fingertips. 

“Of course babe… just  hand holding? Could do a little hand massage, if you want?” Kaito asked, taking Kokichi’s hand and-- not thinking too hard about the fact that Kokichi’s arm still felt a little bit like deadweight, his husband not exactly mobile yet in even the barest sense of the word-- bring it up to his mouth, giving it a small kiss.

“The current reigning theory, is that the very first color babies see, arrrreeee… red.” Shuuichi read aloud, raising an eyebrow, “So, Kaito, looks like you’ll have an edge on us, there.”

Kaito frowned. “...are babies colorblind?”

“They’re either colorblind, or the hues are too blurred to distinguish for infants.” Shuuichi read, “And the first ones they seem to recognize is red. So, if our kid seems weirdly obsessed with Kaito for awhile, it’s not because she loves him more.”

“Well, let’s not discount it.” Kaito huffed.

“M’okay. Just like holding hands with ya,” Kokichi truthfully hummed, his fingers gently curling around Kaito’s. He smiled at the kiss, wishing he could do the same...but he hoped Kaito knew just from the slight stroke of Kokichi’s fingers he managed. 

He did manage to turn his head a little, looking over at Shuuichi with a surprised expression before it faded into consideration. “Hm… On average, I’ve always heard that men tend to see fewer colors than women… I wonder if that factors into infantile colorblindness. That by large women just...keep developing distinctions as they grow.”

Might be interesting to see if there were any studies about it…

“But Miya’s gonna adore you anyway.” He smiled back at Kaito. “She’ll just get to be excited that her dad’s a cool color, before she discovers it for me and Shuu-chan.” 

“The last two colors?” Shuuichi continued, deadpan. “Blue and purple.”

Kokichi paused. “...waaaay before she discovers it for me and Shuu-chan. I’m half tempted to go back to that salon we went to for Kai-chan’s birthday and get my hair dyed… But I’ve heard that changing up your look can freak a baby out. They need to learn about object permanence sometime, but it just seems mean to try it superfluously early on. I want my daughter to be able to recognize me, even if she thinks my hair isn’t very interesting.”

“...she’s gonna be able to see Shuu-chan’s eyes before mine or Kai-chan, though. I think she’ll love peek-a-boo best from you. With a prize like getting to see Shuu-chan’s eyes, it’d be my favorite game too.”

“I am going to own that infant at peek-a-boo. She’s never going to know what hit her.” Shuuichi continued on dryly, turning to the next page, “Every time she lets her guard down, thinks I’m gone forever… bam. Peek-a-boo, kid.”

Kaito snorted a bit at that, raising his eyebrow at Shuuichi, “Are you about to get competitive in games with a three week old, handsome?”

“Gotta do it while I still can. She’ll get older and be running circles around me eventually.” Shuuichi blinked, “Want to know on average how many diapers she’ll go through the first year?”

“Nnnnn… no? Kaito guessed.

She was going to be running circles around all of them. Quick, barefoot circles, while Kaito cried about all the cute little animal socks he got her…

“...so many,” Kokichi sighed, closing his eyes and doing some quick math. “...2400? The books say that their poops stabilize after, like, seven months, but...being generous? Changing her seven to eight times a day…”

“Nnnnn.” Kaito chuckled after making a face, shaking his head as, with a dry laugh, he said, “It’s gonna be an eventful couple of months soon.”

“About to be an eventful thirteen years.”

“Twenty years.”

“An eventful twenty years.” Shuuichi corrected himself, chuckling. “But, well, it’s not like we’ve had an uneventful year yet. We’re used to it.”

“What was the number in the book, by the way?”

“3360.”

“Nnnnnnn.”

“But! To our benefit, apparently infants don’t cry the first three weeks of their lives? They can’t. So, instead, they just scream.”

Kaito buried his face into the covers over Kokichi, laughing and groaning at the same time.

Kokichi huffed softly. “She may be a minor for the next twenty years, but she’s gonna be my daughter forever. Even if she can go out and travel the world or buy property without talking to us, I’m still gonna fuss and needle ‘cause I’m a nosy control-freak who wants the best for my kid…” As long as she still wanted him in her life, Kokichi was going to be present for Miya. And while he could take a year less eventful than this past one, he hoped there would still be nice surprises years and years down the line. 

3360… Kokichi sighed. At least the diaper bin they got sealed well. 

“We’re gonna be so tired… Little screaming baby… I can already see it--she’s gonna have a healthy set of pipes. I’m proud, but please, Miya…” Good thing the walls were insulated so well. And that Maki was coming back to a room one more away. 

“Maybe she’ll be a sweet, gentle baby who has mercy on her daddies and sleeps eight hours a night and comes out of the womb knowing her please and thank you’s.” Kaito mumbled, having settled into leaving his face in the covers of the blanket, over Kokichi’s thigh, quite comfortable really.

“Maybe if she comes out my kid. If she comes out you or Kokichi’s, we’re in for a rough ride. Way I hear it, literally the only reason a baby Kokichi wasn’t climbing up the walls was because he couldn’t. The second you could? You were up them. And Kaito’s tantrums were still talked about years later.”

“Heresy. Blasphemy. I was a perfect child. Anything else you hear is a smear campaign against me.” Kaito murmured, eyes closed, still holding Kokichi’s hand.

If he had the energy to, Kokichi would’ve nodded sagely, but as it was he just tilted his chin a little, letting his expression do most of the work. “I loved to explore. I was easy to look after only in that I didn’t move much. But even then it wasn’t always an easy bet, since if I managed to hide somewhere and fall asleep, then it was almost impossible.”

“No, if she’s Shuu-chan’s kid, we’ll just have to resign ourselves to knowing that we’ll never find anything we need every again. All of our belongings and hers will end up strewn about the castle, not in a chaotic rampage, but with the idle consideration of a true kleptomaniac.”

And if she was a klepto ninja with raging tantrums? God help them…

Kokichi opened his eyes, still not looking like he was headed for dreamland. “...did you guys ever end up finding my childhood portraits?”

“Pffff… I forgot about that… you used to just steal shit as a kid, didn’t you Shuuichi…” Kaito chuckled, his voice a little softer, a little slower. Eyes still closed.

“I honestly couldn’t tell you what I was thinking. I don’t remember why I did it. Just did.” Shuuichi chuckled, still reading his book of baby facts, “Infants don’t have kneecaps.”

“No.”

“They don’t. Not technically.”

“Miya’s dreams of being a kickboxer will never be realized.” Kaito sleepily mourned.

“And if she had been born a boy, in proportion to the rest of her body, her dick would have seemed huge.”

“Takes after her dad.” Kaito smirked.

“Oh… you know, I believe I talked to Ikou about getting some of your portraits, Kokichi. He had copies… Kaito, do you think you’d be able to grab them from him? That’d be nice to look at.”

“Mmmm. Yeah, I can go get them.” Kaito agreed, though not moving quite yet. “See itty bitty baby Kokichi...”

“Mm,” Kokichi hummed, gently moving his thumb along the side of Kaito’s hand. It was difficult, but it was good for him to exercise any little bit he could. “It’s weird, ‘cause babies have about a hundred more bones than an adult. They fuse together as you grow up… Maybe that’s why babies are so squishy.”

“...weird to think that Shuu-chan technically has over 500 bones in his body right now.”

Kokichi smiled slightly. Sleepy Kaito… It had been a long time since he looked at his old portraits too… It could be nice, looking at all the ways he used to look, even if Kokichi didn’t think he’d changed much. 

“My eyes were even bigger,” he taunted. “I bet I looked like an alien, some nocturnal species that needed to get all the light it could. Especially since everything else about me was so small…”

“According to Shuuichi’s book, not your dick.” Kaito murmured into the covers, “Apparently you were hoisting around a hammer.”

Shuuichi rolled his eyes, but he was laughing a little, this small, quiet moment… nice. They hadn’t had too many nice moments lately. Quiet ones, plenty, but that was mostly because Kokichi was passed out all the time and Kaito seemed to be juggling several different coping techniques he was trying out in loo of running off to the shrine, up to but not limited too- cleaning way too much, staring into the distance, and random emotional outbursts. Though, admittedly, he seemed to be calming down the more consistently awake Kokichi was. 

So, Shuuichi said, “Shut up, Kaito… come on, go get the portraits, please? It’ll be cute. And I don’t want to go all the way to the other wing.”

“Mmmmmm….nnnngaaah.” Kaito grunted as he got up, blinking a bit, squinting in the light, before bringing up Kokichi’s hand to kiss it again, “Alright. I’ll go grab them. Wait for me? Won’t run off the second I turn my back, will ya?”

“Sorry hun, this has all been an elaborate ploy. As soon as you step through the door, I’m hopping out of bed, hoisting Shuu-chan over my shoulder, and rappelling out the window, heading for the mountains. I’ve been planning this for weeks.” Kokichi smiled at the kiss to his hand, looking comfortable and happy. 

There was a lot to deal with. Kokichi’s recovery was slow. They were all in therapy, apart and together, and that would take a lot of time and effort. Maki’s siblings were coming soon, and Maki herself should be on her way back. Shuuichi’s birthday was coming up. Miya’s birthday was coming up.

But for now, they could just spend some easy time together and...be okay. 

“See ya soon… No sneak peeks until we can look at them together, alright?”

...Kaito loved the fantasy of Kokichi making some daring dash mistake in the night with a swooning, pregnant Shuuichi. Sure, the ‘not with Kaito’ part of it was kind of a bummer, but fantasy wise? Lots to work with, that particular scenario. Mmmm…

Kaito’s mind full of daydreams, he headed off.

Shuuichi watched him go… before asking Kokichi softly, “Are you okay?”

Carefully, Kokichi tilted his head to look over in Shuuichi’s direction, giving him a soft smile. “Considering things? Yeah. I’m not feeling too tired right now, so that makes me happy since I can spend time with you guys. I’m not in pain, I’m not hungry, I don’t have to use the bathroom...things are good.”

“...the fact that I had an attack at all?” Kokichi’s smile faded. Something sad and tired and...hurt in his eyes. “I’m never happy about that, Shuu-chan. But considering how little I can do...it helps to focus on the good stuff.”

Shuuichi eyed him for a moment… “Want to hear more terrifying infant facts?”

Kokichi’s grin returned. “Absolutely. Our little girl is gonna be the cutest monster in the world. Babies are weird.”

Shuuichi had just finished explaining that the reason babies ate so many times a day were because their stomachs were the size of a walnut, which was not super useful for retaining food, when Kaito returned with a large manilla envelope. “I have achieved it. He’s had copies ready for us to pick up for ages, apparently. Figured he’d wait till we asked for them. You guys ready for some baby Kokichi action?”

“Yeah, I think so. Maybe it’ll give us a clue what Miyako will look like.” Shuuichi smiled, resting his book onto his lap, before scooting himself a little closer to Kokichi.

Kaito headed to the other side of Kokichi, scooting into his side, leaning over to give him a kiss on the top of his forehead, where his hairline started. “Alright… let’s see..”

All the pictures were, again, drawn copies of official portraits over the years, Ikou paying for the copies made over the years of every picture he could get a copy reasonable made of. Pamphlets blown up for detail. Massive, wall portraits shrunk down for convenience. Some in full blown, detailed color, others looking little more than sketches. And the first one they saw was…

Apparently Ikuo had thought to sort the drawings by year, and the first sketch was clearly of an infant. The date at the bottom revealed it to be Kokichi just over a year old, peacefully sleeping among blankets, likely in a crib. He was...smaller than a one-year-old should be, his little round cheeks full, but the rest of him not quite looking right. But he looked comfortable, fists gripping the edge of a blanket and head sinking into a pillow, soft-looking purple curls starting to create a cloud around his head. 

Kokichi knew he’d had...pretty much no development the first year of his life. Instead of babbling out a few words and unsteadily starting to walk around, by his first birthday, he was still just...mostly sleeping. But...he was alive. He’d made it. And the rosy glow in his cheeks in the portrait were proof of that. 

“Awwwww… look at that.” Kaito grinned wide, already incredibly fond and warmed at the cute sight as he said, “You really do make an art out of the ‘sleep cute’ thing, ‘Kichi. You’ve clearly been a master at it your whole life.”

“Look at that fluff of hair.” Shuchi said, also something warm in his tone… though he suddenly blanched, “Oh no, do you think Miya’s going to come out full of hair?”

“Well, this is more than a bit after Kokichi’s escaped the womb, so his full head’s probably not an indication… but I don’t know? I kinda hope she has all her hair, or at least enough to see what color it’ll be.”

“...I could have hair in my stomach…” Shuuichi said, voice full of horror. 

The next picture… Kaito laughed. “Oh my god, what are you wearing?”

“I think… that’s an old school sailors outfit? But white instead of blue…” Shuuichi mused, before frowning, “Is this from a pamphlet? Why did they use a picture of you for a pamphlet for a voyage?”

On the picture itself, a slightly older, maybe late two, or early three-- though probably late two, even considering how underdeveloped Kokichi could be expected to look-- a smiling, excited Kokichi with a sailor hat slide somewhat down his head, a big, flamboyant bow on the back of his hat and on the front of his sailor shirt, with the bubble next to his face saying, “Have a good trip, Akira Crew!”

“I’ve had lots of practice,” Kokichi drawled, though...that was a cute picture of him. He had a feeling any sketch of Miya sleeping was going to be ten times cuter, though. 

He gave Shuuichi an amused look at his horror of their daughter already having hair--though he was kind of in Kaito’s camp. It would be cool to see immediately what Miya’s hair color was, even if Kokichi didn’t think they’d have any regrets over not naming her Ruby if she turned out to be a red-head. 

At the next picture, Kokichi snorted slightly, a little amused that his dad would’ve kept this one. ...it was cute though. 

“PR, if you can believe it,” Kokichi started to explain. “Especially considering the outcry of me being announced the heir, Aiichi thought it’d be a good idea to kinda...plaster my face where he could. Make me a sign of the country, good will and luck and all that, to get the association stuck in people’s heads. So there are a lot of old pamphlets ‘n stuff out there of me in weird outfits, wishing people good luck on the sea, or a good harvest, or for local fairs and stuff… It’s weird, but I never really saw any of the images when I got older, so it never really bothered me.”

The next picture was a little older still, and clearly more formal than the last two. Kokichi was wearing a small cloak, almost like a shrunk down version of the one he’d worn to Harvest that year, and while the drawing was just of Kokichi, their were arms around him, carrying him, and judging by the sleeves that were also obviously from the traditional fall-wear, it was more likely than not Aiichi holding his son for a portrait. 

In this, Kokichi looked a little less thrilled, more tired, but there was still a small smile on his face as he rested in his father’s arms, his hand holding onto the edge of Aiichi’s cloak. 

“Awww… man, they really love putting you in those robe things.” Kaito observed, admiring the little baby outfit. “Will we have to put Miya in the robe things? Like, is that an Ouma thing, or… like, a ‘Dicean’ thing?”

“It’s an Ouma thing, mostly…” Kokichi hummed. “What my dad and I wear during festivals are traditional Dicean clothes. I know there are a lot of people that take inspiration from ‘em to make new clothes, and I think there are a few places you can get just straight up traditional clothes…”

“And...honestly, it might not be a bad idea to get at least the Fall and Winter sets for her. They’re made to be really warm and the old techniques are...well, the foundation of all warm clothing.” Kokichi sighed softly, knowing that there were other pictures in the folder of the other seasons’ clothes. “The others...I won’t say no if she wants them. But wearing kimono and yukata are kind of annoying… At least the winter kimono is over other layers and has pants…”

“What was the kind you wore for the wedding?” Kaito asked.

“A summer yukata, though the print and style is, like, suuuuper old school traditional for weddings. Except for the purple sash.” Kokichi smiled a bit, his gaze softening. “That was just for my mom. She wore one a lot so...there was a little change to include that. The pins with the stars I wore in my hair were hers too.”

“...” Whoops. Kaito was pretty sure he literally threw those pins on the ground, that night… mmmm… “I need a picture of our wedding outfits. I don’t know why I haven't gotten one copied yet, I know there are portraits of us out there.”

“Lots happened since the wedding. Understandable it hasn’t crossed your mind till now.” Shuuichi observed, moving onto the next picture.

Kaito sighed, “You have to see what he looked like, Shuuichi… like one of the saints, straight out of the mosaics… absolutely breathtaking...”

“I want to see you in your outfit, Kaito. Your description of your hair sounds hilarious.”

“...yeah…” Kaito sighed, disappointed at that particular part of the memory.

The three had a bit of a laugh as they found more pics of Kokichi in clearly more propaganda outfits. Baby Kokichi in a farmer outfit digging a hole. Toddler Kokichi in what Kokichi explained was a fireman outfit that volunteer firefighters wore on the job, toddler Kokichi in an apron with a bowl encouraging the bakers to have fun in whatever competition the pamphlet was advertising. Then…

“Ah, I was wondering when he’d make an appearance.” Kaito chuckled. 

It was a simpler portrait, black and white, but it was of a slightly older Kokichi, maybe four, at youngest, in the arms of Ikou, posing loosely for the artists. Kokichi looked like a bundle of energy, Ikou just barely managing to keep him on his lap while the child seemed like he was giggling, mid kick, like he was rolling around in Ikou’s lap.

“Ask around, I’m sure someone will be able to send you in the right direction easy enough. Saying our wedding was highly publicized is an understatement.” And while the news of the treaty and that the war was over was more relevant to get out there, pictures of the two grooms tying the knot was right there alongside them. 

Kokichi grinned as they flipped past a chunk of pamphlet pieces--seriously, why did Ikuo have all these?--seeing a simple portrait, but… 

“Oh, I actually remember this… Barely. Daddy said that there were some people coming by to draw a picture of me, but I refused to pose for them unless Ikuo was in it too. But...yanno, I was a little kid, so I didn’t want to stay still. I don’t remember the artists being annoyed, but I’m sure it was frustrating. ...then again, if they were used to drawing kids…”

Kokichi chuckled. “It’s gonna be interesting, seeing how long Miya will compromise staying still for pictures… I’m gonna wanna draw her all the time, so hopefully I can offer some references.”

Ah, right… Kaito wasn’t sure why that in particular had reminded him of the profile portrait he had asked Shuuichi to make him. Still tucked away in his clothes drawer. Kaito… still not sure what to do with it. Probably nothing…

“I think it’s cute. A picture of a happy, fussy kid is better than a picture of a tired, dressed up kid… though, hopefully, Miya won’t be the type of kid worn down from dressing up a little. Man I hope she doesn’t mind dressing up a bit. I can’t wait to go out to town and strut with her, showing ourselves off.”

“Ugh, no. The last thing I need is one more person drawing in attention every time we go out.” Shuuichi mumbled, rolling his eyes, “She and I can wallflower together, it’ll be fine.”

However Miya turned out to be, Kokichi just hoped she’d be happy. A happy little girl running around the backyard, prodding at her older brother and a dog bigger than her to play…

Kokichi smiled, his eyes going a little far away at the thought as they turned to the next picture. Though, he chuckled a bit when he saw it. Another festival portrait, but this time Kokichi was standing on his own and grinning widely for the artists. Grinning widely with a mouth missing quite a few teeth, his curly hair having been attempted to be tamed back but failing miserably, and fluffed up all around his head. Thankfully, the sash of his yukata was done perfectly, so while the fabric billowed from some movement, Kokichi likely moving around, it was still snug around him. 

“Baby teeth...that’s going to be a thing, isn’t it.”

“Man, ‘Kichi, who punched you in the face?” Kaito joked, though he liked this picture. Again, he liked the pictures that showed his husband genuinely pleased with something, rather than well posed, and this Kokichi, while posing, was clearly entirely pleased with his own progress. So it counted. “Someone got you good.”

“Baby teeth will be a thing, yes.” Shuuichi sighed… before looking increasingly grave as he said, “I’m going to admit, if the kid starts teething while breastfeeding? She’s gonna very suddenly be a formula and pump only baby. Just… just saying. I might be food, but I’m not up to being chewed.”

“Very fair. I wonder if Miyako will be particularly fond of honey, growing up?” Kaito mused, before snickering, “I’m more fond of honey now.”

“Kaito…” Shuuichi scoffed tone disapproving, a small tint of red in his cheeks. “Don’t make it weird.”

“What! I’m just saying the nectar’s sweet! Milk tastes good too! What’s weird?”

Shuuichi rolled his eyes. Honestly…

Kokichi’s eyebrows raised in slight surprise. Shuuichi was...open to breastfeeding? Had they had that conversation while he was asleep. He...supposed it was just good to know…

“Very fair, Shuu-chan. You shouldn’t have to submit yourself to tiny baby teeth.” Skin-to-skin contact was really important for a baby, though so...Kokichi wondered if she’d start trying to teeth at him and Kaito too. Uuurg...good thing they already had some teething toys lined up for her. 

Rolling his eyes alongside Shuuichi, Kokichi sighed. “Inappropriate horniness--ten bonks.”

“I’ll add it to the list for Maki.” Shuuichi said gravely, nodding.

“What? What list? What bonks? Doesn’t a bonk mean, like… I don’t know, a blow to the head?”

“I’m afraid so.” Shuuichi sighed, “Ten blows to the head for inappropriate horniness. I hope she’ll hold back for the sake of our child…”

“What? She won’t! You know that! Bonk me yourself if that’s what we’re doing!”

“I think that’d be domestic abuse. I wouldn’t dare.” Shuuichi said sadly, before shrugging, “So I’ll leave it to Maki.”

While Kaito continued to plead his case that if there was some some of ‘bonk counter’ then he reserved the right to ask his partners to do it instead, Shuuichi continued to look through some of the pictures. A lot of pictures like the ones before, but Kokichi a little older in each one. Another festival picture… “Awww, look at this one. This one’s a bit… pfff.” Shuuichi shook his head. “That’s a choice, I guess.”

The picture was a caricature of what was… maybe a six year old Kokichi? Cartoonish and quick, Kokichi wearing one of his formal festival outfits, but with overly big, teary eyes, clearly pouting over a spilled ice cream cone over the front of his robe, half of his cheeks covered in ice cream.

“Look at that. A little messy Kokichi… man, did someone pay money for this? Why? I mean, you look adorable, but it looks like you’re crying over a spilled treat.” Kaito chuckled. “Pretty cute though…”

Kokichi sighed, though he laughed a bit, looking at the illustration. “Cause I was crying over a spilled treat. Sort of. You know how people like to feed me at festivals, and I got some ice cream. Just absolutely dropped it all over myself, and, sure, I was sad that I wasted it, but I seriously thought I was going to get in trouble over wasting it and ruining my clothes…”

“Ikuo took me back inside, picked out just some regular clothes to wear, and I was still kinda bummed out because I thought I’d let people down and I was gonna get yelled out… But when we came out, the artist that made this--I think they had a booth and were doing caricatures all day--showed off this drawing and...it kind sunk in then that no one was mad at me? It was just an accident, after all. And I loved this drawing, so my dad paid for it and...I guess he kept it, all these years.”

Kokichi just looked at the picture for another moment, fond of the memories surrounding it. “There were a few things I was able to participate in during holidays. I’ve gotten my face painted a few times.”

The next picture made Kokichi grin wider. It was just one of a set of pictures, he knew, though this seemed to be the only one of them in the folder. A much younger Lake, her hair barely to her shoulders and pulled back in a messy ponytail, was in the middle of a booming laugh he could practically hear, her arms thrown in the air as...right above them, Kokichi was soaring, skinny limbs splayed wide as he enjoyed weightlessness, his sister having tossed him in the air. The bottom of the picture provided a little more context, a title proclaiming Lake’s Acceptance into the Guardforce, 9/34/xx

“Oh, look at that. I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting to see a picture of Lake in here.” Kaito said, raising an eyebrow a little. “How old are you both in this?”

Double checking with the date, even though Kokichi knew, he answered, “She was nineteen, I was seven. She was getting some official sketches done, as a treat from Ikuo when she got accepted, but I ran into the session and she just...started playing with me. I was so proud for her...she’d worked so hard to get in.”

“Nineteen…” Kaito looked curiously at the picture, before asking, “Did she know Nazumi by this point?”

“...”

Kokichi was quiet for a moment. 

“Sorta, yeah. They’d spoken a few times, were friendly… They started to hit it off more after this. She was still a junior member, but Lake helped with Nazumi’s parole a bit, and while it was professional...they did start to get along. And outside of work, Lake started spending some time with Aunty too.”

“Parole?” Kaito asked, a curious look on his face.

“Some trouble in her youth. Ages ago, before the war even started.” Shuuichi said quickly, keeping his voice casual. “Was struggling with some undiagnosed chemical imbalances that exasperated some mental illness’s she already had. According to her files, anyway. She’s got it under control, these days. Maki knows about it.”

Shuuichi was quick to say all of this, because, well… Maki had put Kokichi’s safety in the hands of a serial killer whose motivations were ‘liking and protecting’ someone. Which, on paper… sounds insane. But… all of the papers had insisted Nazumi was more than successfully reformed, she had successfully helped Kokichi with his heart attack (even if Shuuichi was still a little ticked she hadn’t done what seemed like a basic job to him of sticking to the schedule), and, frankly… she was just too much of a fixture in Kokichi’s life to comfortably leave Kaito feeling uncomfortable around her, or afraid for Kokichi. It’d be better for everyone, for Kaito to not worry about it. So, Shuuichi was trying to make that easier.

Besides, again, Maki had approved of her. And Shuuichi trusted Maki’s opinion, when it came to stuff like that. Maki being her own kind of serial killer, even if unwilling, probably made it easier for the ex-assassin to look past Nazumi’s troubled history. Hell, maybe it gave Maki more faith in Nazumi’s ability to protect Kokichi… so long as the older woman didn’t feel compelled to murder Kaito or Shuuichi over it. Which, again, according to all the paperwork, wasn’t gonna be an issue anymore.

“Oh yeah? Huh…” Kaito grinned at the paper, “That’s sort of a fun story. A guard and a prisoner, falling in… friendship with each other. Would make a great dime novel.”

Kokichi nodded slightly at Shuuichi’s explanation--just a slight tip of his head, really--and...he was kind of surprised Kaito didn’t know. But...he supposed his husband hadn’t had a reason to go looking around for how Nazumi ended up in Usott. 

“Right?” he softly laughed. “Though...Aunty said Lake-nee was a big reason she was able to get back into regular life. The guards were just there to keep an eye on her and to...like, get her through the motions of getting back to regular life, but having a friend? Socially, Lake-nee was the first person to reach out to Aunty. That’s why they’re so special to each other.”

“And, I guess, having over a decade of that friendship, and living together for years too,” Kokichi snorted.

“‘Kichi, I’ve always been curious. What’s with the ‘nee’ you add to Lake’s name?” Kaito asked, “... actually, for that matter, what the hell is ‘chan’? I was too embarrassed to ask when I first met you, and just kinda accepted it cause you said it all the time. What does that mean? Does it mean anything, or do you just like making noises after half of people’s names?”

Kokichi blinked before he let out a breath. “Ooh...they do come from Tradean, I guess, so… You guys made comments about finding it funny I found you cute the first time I called you that, so I thought you knew…”

“They’re suffixes. The “nee” I add to Lake’s name is like...affectionately calling her ‘Big Sister Lake’, but saying it like that is kind of a mouthful, so I use the suffix,” Kokichi explained. “And the ‘chan’s…”

He smirked a bit. “Literally, it’s just a cute diminutive for someone. Like, an older person would see kids running around and call them ‘name-chan’, but used among peers it’s just...kind of a signifier that you’re close and affectionate. I started using it to catch people off guard and...it just kind of became habit. And now, I can’t really think of calling you guys anything else.”

“I knew what it meant?” Kaito asked, looking startled by that, “Did I?”

“Kaito, if you randomly being fluent in other languages and then immediately forgetting about it is going to become a habit… why?”

“I’m not fluent in any other language. Except for flags.” Kaito pouted.

“Sometimes I think you’re just fucking with us.”

“No, but sometimes I forget our ‘Kichi was fucking with us, when we first got here.” Kaito sighed, leaning over and giving his a soft kiss to his temple, before scolding, “You’re a jerk. You were sarcastic with people for so long that it became the default? You call literally everyone ‘chan’! ... Is there a suffix for ‘rugged and handsome’?”

Kokichi just grinned unashamedly at his husband. It wasn’t so much being sarcastic as...well, being almost obnoxiously familiar with people made them drop their guards. Made it so they wouldn’t think too hard about the kid hanging out around the market or going into museums by himself. And for folks that took themselves a little too seriously, it was a way to shut down and humble them without getting into a direct confrontation. 

“Hey, I did mean it when I called Shuu-chan cute when we met. That wasn’t fucking with him.” Kokichi winked at his boyfriend before putting his husband’s pouting question to actual thought. “...I don’t really think so? ‘Kun’ is...a little more rough and tumble than ‘chan’ but it was almost always used for boys and younger men. Besides, I think Kai-chan suits Kai-chan the best.”

“Tsk. A word for ‘cute’, no word for ‘hopelessly attractive’. Shame.” Kaito said, disapproval apparent.

A few more pictures, much like the others, but later in Kokichi’s life. There were much less candid pictures now, almost all formal sitdown pictures of Kokichi in similar looking robes, his face growing more and more ‘neutral’ with every painting. Until…

“Wow. Man… why even keep this one? You’re basically glaring into the portrait.”

It was a somewhat older Kokichi, maybe ten, maybe eleven. Sitting stiffly and looking mostly displeased, once again in one of his formal wear, a tired, frustrated look on his face. “Maybe Ikou got it copied just to have a picture of Kokichi at that age? There becomes a lot less drawings, after this.” Shuuichi noted, in comparison to the early years stack. “You do look upset though.”

“Judging by the date...I’d pretty much just gotten off of bedrest,” Kokichi sighed. “And...after my dad left, I really hated being drawn. I just never saw the point of it. It was always stuffy and boring and...it wasn’t like there was anyone looking at these after the fact anyway. It was just a formality…”

Kokichi frowned a bit. He was happy he had the portraits now, so he could show his family what he looked like at various ages, but...looking back, these were the start of some...really horrible years of his life. Sure, people weren’t coming to kill him anymore but...Aiichi was becoming more focused on the war, his dad was gone, it was really dawning on him that...he didn’t really have friends. Denji was new at the time, Lake was busy with her job, he was still wary of Waku then…

It was lonely, and he didn’t even have work to distract him. 

Kokichi sighed. “I think the rest of these, except for our wedding portrait, if Ikuo got a copy of it, are just going to be scattered festival portraits… I didn’t always get them done. And I don’t know how entertaining watching me be a sleepy teenager would be…”

Kaito shrugged, “Nothing wrong with just looking through them, while we have them.”

They did look through the rest, but Kokichi was right. It was just more festival portraits with Kokichi sporting a similarly bored look that grew more neutral and apathetic every picture. He stopped changing in appearance much portrait to portrait, and after a few of these, they ran out of copies to look at. Though, the very last portrait…

“Heyyyy, look at that.” Kaito grinned, looking fondly at the portrait, “I should have guessed he’d have this. See, Shuuichi? Doesn’t he look amazing?”

Shuuichi looked at the portrait of Kaito and Kokichi, finding the scene curious. It was a painting of Kokichi and Kaito, in their wedding outfit, walking down a grass path while a gathering happened around them. It was clearly some part of the wedding at the park, but the pose the artist chose to capture was oddly casual. Kaito was looking around at the guests, looking mildly confused, while Kokichi, hanging on his arm, seemed to be mid-conversation. For an elaborate, important, war ending wedding, the artist seemed perfectly content to make a painting of the royal couple just sort of looking like they were taking an overly dressed up walk through the park.

“...your hair looks ridiculous.”

“I knooooow.”

Kokichi wondered when Ikuo had gotten these copies. ...he wondered what his dad thought when he saw them. But for how difficult the time had been...there had been good moments too. And Kokichi had a feeling that the drawings he sent his dad during his years away were more fun to look at than some stuffy portraits. 

Smiling softly, Kokichi took in their wedding portrait, having not actually seen it himself. It had been...a very stressful day. And a horrible ending to the night. And there were things he regretted. But...for a few moments...it had been really nice. And the moment in the portrait, him and Kaito walking arm in arm to the podium as they talked, having just a little moment to themselves… Kokichi was glad this was the moment memorialized. 

“It was very silly. It was even more slicked back that morning. It’s almost like people don’t know Kai-chan is naturally supposed to look like a chicken.”

“Hero! Dashing, roguish, hero! Who looks like a chicken!?”

“The armor looks very well made.” Shuuichi appeased him a little, “Entirely worth lugging that heavy thing through three countries.”

“Yeah, it was pretty heavy to wear too, honestly… aw, the artists didn’t put the bandage on my wrist in the painting.” Kaito pouted, squinting as he looked more closely. “Come on, man… ah well. They probably thought they were doing me a favor.”

“Mmm… well, these were cute. I’d say it’s a shame we waited so long to look at them, but this seems like a pretty good time to do stuff like this, honestly. Like the puzzle.” Shuuichi gestured to the half finished milk puzzle, covered in various supportive messages to Kokichi from everyone who had stopped by, “Some things are best when you don’t have anything else going on and have some quiet moments to fill.”

“Mhmm…” Kokichi hummed, feeling settled and...for the most part, happy with the walk down memory lane. One day, he hoped to bring out an album and do something similar with Miya, laughing and chatting about all sorts of baby pictures and watching her grow up a snapshot at a time. And...hopefully there wouldn’t be a streak in hers where the light went out of her eyes. Hopefully whenever he drew her smile, it would be one that stretched across her face, or pressed into the corners of her mouth. 

“I’ll be excited to see the puzzle when it’s done,” Kokichi hummed, his blinks getting a little slower. “And hopefully there’ll still be a few pieces for me to fill. Feel like I barely worked on it at all…”

“If not, you can help with the next one, babe.” Kaito said softly, leaning in and kissing his temple again, “There’s always gonna be more. There’s no need to get all of them.”

It sounded like Kokichi didn’t have much left in him, this time. So, Kaito collected all the pictures and put them back in the envelope, assuring Shuuichi and Kokichi that he’d be back as soon as he dropped it off back to Ikou, and he was.

Kokichi and Shuuichi were both asleep by the time he got back, but that was alright. It was a slow, sleepy day for everyone.

-

Everything was in place. He and Kaito had nailed down the riddles, and--mostly to avoid suspicion--Ikuo had put them all in place. The presents were ready to be brought in on mark, and Kokichi had sent a message down to the kitchen about dinner. They had even gotten that fancy puff cake from Miss Andou’s candy shop, and it was being kept in a safe spot in the kitchen too. 

Now...they just had to see. If Shuuichi felt alright enough to get out of bed that day and...if Kokichi could stay awake for it. As it was, he’d had a hushed conversation with Kaito, pleading with his husband to wake him up in the morning so they could wish Shuuichi a happy birthday...and it wouldn’t even be early in the morning, since they were planning on sleeping in a bit as another present! So he was getting plenty of rest, c’mooooooon!

He just wanted it to be a nice, fun day spent with good times and loved ones…

Kaito had just finished his hair, and took a step back, looking himself up and down in the mirror. Shaved, trimmed, lotioned… clean, smelling good, looking good. Outfit was nice, but casual… he gave himself a grin in the mirror. Alright, nice. He raised his arms and, only feeling a little goofy, flexed… yeah! Alright! Looking good for Shuuichi’s birthday! 

Heading out of the bathroom, he considered his two men in bed, both still out like a light. That was alright, they had all talked about it, it was a sleep in day… though, he wanted to tell Shuuichi happy birthday before he left to take Tim to school…

Crawling back into bed, he looked between Kokichi and Shuuichi… before deciding to try waking Shuuichi first. Kokichi’s promise wouldn’t mean anything if Shuuichi wasn’t awake to be told happy birthday too. So, kissing against Shuuichi’s face, Kaito said gently, “Shuuuiiiiiichiiii… Haaaaapppy Biiiirthdaaaaay. Come on…”

“I’m sleeping in.” Shuuichi grumbled, swiping Kaito away like his boyfriend was annoying fly, before turning over, burying his head into Kokichi’s shoulder. “Nnnn.”

Kaito rolled his eyes, before leaning in and kissing Shuuichi’s neck, “I know, I know, but I’m gonna go bring Tim to school and then bring up breakfast-”

“-lunch.” Shuuichi mumbled, “Not getting up till lunch.”

“...okay, fiiine. Lunch. I’ll bring back lunch. But me and Kokichi wanna say happy birthday first. Indulge us, handsome…”

“....nnnn…”

That was not a ‘no’, so Kaito grinned, gave Shuuichi another little kiss, before crawling out of bed, trotting around it to get onto Kokichi’s side. 

More kisses against the face, a similar method to how he woke Shuuichi, as Kaito said softly, “‘Kichi… it’s our Shuuichi’s special day… you in there, babe?” Kaito joked, putting feather light kisses against his cheek, before, pressing slightly harder against his cheekbone, temple, forehead, “‘Kiiiiichiiii.”

Kokichi exhaled a little more forcefully before his face started to scrunch, his eyes moving beneath their lids before fluttering open. Awake…? Oh! 

Kokichi smiled, seeing his husband above him, and it didn’t take too long for him to remember what day it was. He raised a shaky hand, just barely touching his fingertips to Kaito’s cheek before he gently lowered his hand back down to the bed. It was a newer development in his recovery--he still couldn’t feed himself, but he could guide the cup for a few moments, and gently touch his partners. “G’mornin’, Kai-chan…”

And, with slight shifting, though Kokichi still couldn’t quite turn himself over, he gave Shuuichi’s head a light pet, smiling sweetly--and sleepily--down at his boyfriend. “Good morning, Shuu-chan… Happy birthday.”

Maybe it was a little anticlimactic, considering how much he’d planned for today, but for now? Before Shuuichi would be awake at all? It was nice. 

Looking over at Kaito, Kokichi squinted past him at the clock. “Should I have tea now, or wait ‘til you get back…?”

“Let’s do it now, babe, that way you can sleep in till lunch with Shuuichi.” Kaito decided, glancing at the clock… frowning a little as he realized, “Oh, well… I might not have time…”

“I can take on tea duty.” Shuuichi murmured sleepily. 

“No, no, it’s alright, go back to sleep Shuuichi. I still have time, worst comes to worst Tim will either be a few minutes late or we’ll walk a bit faster.” Kaito decided, giving Kokichi another soft kiss before admitting, “I like tea time with ‘Kichi. You ready for me to move you up the pillow a bit, babe?”

Kaito was in the habit of moving Kokichi a bit to sitting up, when it was tea time, to make it easier for him to drink. Kokichi could drink laying straight back, but it clearly wasn’t comfortable. So Kaito tried not to do it, if he could help it.

Kokichi frowned slightly, not liking the idea of being the reason Tim was late for school, but...Kaito said he was going to do it. And, honestly, if they aimed on doing it after Kaito got back, Kokichi might be fast asleep again. And Kaito could just wake him up again, but considering how much he wanted to be awake later in the day…

Sighing softly, Kokichi smiled up at his husband. “Yes, please. I’ve gotten better at keeping my head up...I might even be able to lie down by myself today!”

...maybe not, but he liked to think optimistically. This attack had...really done a number on his body, and Kokichi found himself so tired and weak feeling and…

...and the healers were still a little worried about his legs’ reflexes. It didn’t look like he had nerve damage but...it was looking like he’d be slower to start walking around again this time. Not to mention how dangerously low his weight was...but they were working on that. He could eat soft foods again!

Kokichi took a breath, preparing himself to be sat up.

Kokichi’s condition wasn’t a mystery to Kaito.

He was sitting there, quietly listening in, to everything the healers said to Kokichi. He sat there when they were doing ‘reflex’ tests, saw the way they frowned, the way they quietly talked to each other, looking at the results on their clipboards like it was a particularly frustrating puzzle… he saw the way Kokichi could still barely move almost two weeks later. He remembered it hadn’t taken that long last time…

Kaito knew this time was worse.

He was honestly a little concerned for his husband. Not physically, though of course also physically, but mentally. He wanted to talk to him about all of this, just, ask… ask where Kokichi’s head was at, these days. Just wanted to try to emotionally be there for him. Let Kokichi unload a bit…

But so far Kokichi didn’t seem to want to do that, and Kaito didn’t want to push his husband into an emotional outburst Kokichi didn’t want or need. Especially not in his current state.

So, Kaito kept his concerns to himself as, putting a hand on the back of Kokichi’s neck, and one hand firmly around his waist, Kaito did the practiced motion of picking Kokichi up all at once and bringing him up to the propped pillows in one motion-- Shuuichi rolling off of Kokichi’s shoulder and shifting onto his back with a small sigh-- before laying him down again. 

Shifting the blanket around to rest on Kokchi’s lap, Kaito leaned back to admire his handiwork, looking him over… before he said softly, admiring Kokichi being caught in the morning window light, “You look beautiful today, babe.”

Then he headed over to grab the tea itself.

Kokichi gave Kaito a soft smile. Knowing that Kaito’s compliments were his little ways of saying ‘I love you’, especially when he knew people were down. And Kokichi…

...well, today he was pretty happy. He was excited for Shuuichi to get his gifts and hopefully have fun with the scavenger hunt. He’d been looking forward to today for a while, even if it wasn’t going to go like how he’d originally thought. But...that was okay. 

Most days? Kokichi was thankful for his friends and family, appreciated the time they all devoted to him. Amber, Stacy, and Temp still came over semi-frequently, tending to the flowers they’d brought--and Kokichi had been amazed when he learned it had come with them; he’d...honestly teared up a bit--and Kokichi loved spending time chatting with them. Lake and Nazumi came over too. ...trying a few times to talk to him about Cedar, but...Kokichi still wasn’t sure what to think, and he wanted to trust in the courts for the time being. Of course, Ikuo was by often, and not just to plan for Shuuichi’s birthday. 

He had a very full life, and he was thankful for that. 

...and because Kokichi was in a much better mental space these days, he knew that even if he had a lot of people spending time with him that he loved, it was still fine to hurt. It was something he should probably talk to his partners about--Kaito had tried asking a few times already--but...he just wanted to think about it by himself for a little longer. Sort out his words. 

But! Today was good. 

As he’d been doing, Kokichi raised a shaky, thin hand to guide the cup to his mouth as Kaito started giving him his medicine, trying to drink it down efficiently without rushing himself.

Kaito glanced down at Shuchi’s-- maybe??-- sleeping form, before looking back at Kokichi and grinning, giving him a wink. “It’s gonna be a good day, babe. You excited?”

Kokichi took a breath as he finished his tea, letting his arm down to rest against the covers. However, the grin on his face was bright. “Of course! Today’s one of the best days of the year, ‘cause it’s the anniversary of Shuu-chan bein’ here. There’s still the very important matter of sleepin’ in, but after that? Just a day jam-packed with fantasticness.”

...they’d just have to figure out how they wanted to approach it.

“....Nnnnnnn.” Shuuichi grumbled, saying something indistinguishable.

Kaito let Kokichi see him roll his eyes a little before, taking the cup back to the desk, he said, “Sorry, Shuuichi, didn’t catch that.”

“‘Irthday ‘s sleep day.” Shuuichi grumbled, “No jam. Just sleep.”

“He won’t feel the same way later.” Kaito assured Kokichi, rolling his eyes again, as he hesitated at the side of the bed, “...do you wanna try to do it yourself, babe?”

Letting out a tooootally beleaguered sigh, Kokichi smirked down at his snoozing lover. “No jam? Damn, then I guess we need to figure out something to do with the birthday cake we got you…”

Snickering softly to himself, Kokichi looked back over at Kaito as his expression sobered, becoming hesitantly determined. “...yeah. I wanna try…”

Just...had to slide his hips forward. It didn’t matter if his shirt rode up. Carefully, Kokichi put his hands on either side of himself, bending slightly at the elbows and...trying not to put too much pressure on his shoulders… Press his heels into the bed…

“...unf! ...ha. Ung…”

...he’d slid a little but…

Kokichi panted lightly, his arms trembling, and he shook his head a little. “...s...sorry… I can’t…”

“Damn good try!” Kaito praised, stepping in quickly, taking the nape of Kokichi’s neck again and his waist again, putting him back in his laid back position, fixing his shirt, bringing the blanket back up. Before he had barely put Kokichi back down, Shuuichi had turned back over, putting his arms around him and shuffling back into his side, murmuring something about how it better be damn good cake, to interrupt sleep day.

“Damn good try. You’re getting better every day, babe.” Kaito praised again, giving Kokichi a small kiss on the mouth, this time, chaste and loving, before a louder, more obnoxious kiss against his cheek, before doing the same to Shuuichi, “Alright, get your sleep, you two lazy bums. I’ll be back at lunch. Lova ya both!”

“N-nrmn.” Shuuichi mumbled in response.

It was embarrassing, not to even be able to lie down by yourself. But Kokichi was in an unusual circumstance, and every bit of strength he regained mattered. Until he was able to do things himself, he had people to help. That was community. That was love. 

Kokichi kissed Kaito back before settling back down in bed, putting a light arm over Shuuichi’s as he closed his eyes. “See ya, Kai-chan. I love you. Tell Tim good morning from me.”

And, in preparation for a busy afternoon, Kokichi went back to sleep, comfortable in his boyfriend’s arms. 

-

“...can I invite Cali and Kimiko?” Tim asked, after Kaito explained what they were doing that afternoon.

“Mmmm yeah? Yeah. You think they’d be up to holding some of the clues or something?”

“Yeah, I’d say so.”

“Does this mean you’d be up to seeing Kokichi?”

“Why wouldn’t I be?”

“You haven't been up to visiting him yet… It's been a few weeks now, kid.”

“He’ll be asleep. Why should I come see him?”

Kaito sighed, rubbing the back of his neck, “...it’s mostly just to show support, Tim. When someone you care about gets sick, even if you can’t make them better, supporting them makes things feel a little better. Either now or later.”

“... I don’t know if I care about uncle Kokichi.”

“...”

Tim walked with Kaito in silence, his face impassive, but his shoulders squared. Tense. Knowing what he had said and ready for some sort of fight about it. Feeling angry and defiant and ready to pick that fight…

“...what are you doing at school today?”

“...I don’t know. Nothing, probably.” Tim muttered.

“We’ll talk to your teacher, see if you can’t take half a day. Let’s go sit down somewhere and have breakfast, kid.”

“... you’re mad at me.”

“No. I just want to sit down and talk with ya, kid.” Kaito sighed, “Probably overdue, at this point. Let’s go talk about how things are.”

Tim shrugged. “‘Kay.”

-

Shuuichi hates proving Kaito right. Today was a sleep day! He had already decided! He was NEVER going to change his mind!!

...except, right around lunch, he woke up his eyes and was just… awake.

...uuuuuuughhhhh… come on body, just go back to sleeeeeeep… it’s his daaaaaaaaaay… sleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay…

...nope.

He was awake.

Dammit.

Still, purely out of stubborness, Shuuichi laid in bed for another half hour, staring at the ceiling, entirely vegging out… and again, purely out of contradictory stubbornness, Shuuichi closed his eyes and pretended to still be asleep when Kaito opened the door, bringing with him warms, lovely scents. “Lunch time, you guys… guys?” Kaito gently called out, looking over to the bed, before sighing.

Still out, huh?

But, Kaito couldn’t let them sleep through both breakfast and lunch, so, putting down the tray on the desk, prepping Kokichi’s tea first, everything set up, he once again he headed over to Shuuichi, about to start his kissing wake up routine… but…

… Shuuichi always drooled a little, if he was sleeping too late into the day. Kaito had no idea why. Maybe something to do with the heat? Right now though…

Kaito leaned down, raising an eyebrow at his boyfriends still face, before saying, “Shuuichi? We playing games?”

“No.” Shuuichi said, eyes still closed. “I’m sound asleep.”

“I see that… you hungry?”

“No.” Gurgle, “...sleeping.”

“I see, I see… well, when you wake up, there’s food ready and hot and waiting for you. Hopefully you wake up in time to enjoy some nice, warm rice sandwiches… fish… can you smell it?”

Gurgle. “Mm.” Shuuichi said non-committedly.

“With some salad and cashews… poached eggs… I even got a little bit of ride pudding to go with it all…”

Increasingly aggressive gurgle. “Maybe I’ll get up in a minute.” Shuuichi said non-committedly, but he finally opened his eyes, giving his boyfriend a somewhat amused look as he said, “Don’t be smug.”

“Who’s smug?” Kaito asked smugly.

“Go wake Kokichi, you smug jerk.”

Kaito laughed, giving Shuuichi a small kiss, before heading over to Kokichi. Reconsidering, he went and grabbed Kokichi’s tea, bread and soup, rice pudding and fruit (it was probably too much food, but Kaito would rather Kokichi stop eating because he was full, not because he was out of food), putting it on the night stand before he gently ran a thumb over Kokichi’s cheek. “Lunch time, ‘Kichi~”

Again, Kokichi went through the song and dance of deeper sighs and subtle twitches until he cracked his eyes open, mildly stretching under the covers as he smiled up at Kaito. “Already…? Could’ve sworn it was still morning…”

He took a deeper breath, reaching up to gently rub his eyes. “Smells good… You guys having fish for lunch? Mm...smells like there’s some sorta sauce with it...might be good for a vinegar day…”

Blinking over at his side, Kokichi gave Shuuichi an adoring, sleepy look. “Happy birthday, Shuu-chan… Did you sleep well?”

Shuuichi sighed, fiiiinally sitting up and stretching a little, before leaning over and giving Kokichi a small kiss as he said, “Good morning, Kokichi… or, good afternoon?”

“Good afternoon.” Kaito agreed, already in the process of shifting Kokichi back into a sitting position, tea time imminent. 

“I slept good. Kaito’s too fussy, though.”

“I feel like you’re using that word wrong… unless ‘fussy’ means, ‘extremely considerate, available, ruggedly handsome’...”

“So fussy.” Shuuichi sighed, shifting himself off the bed and heading over to fetch his food, bringing it back over to the bed with another, urgent gurgle coming from Miya’s house. It did actually smell amazing… maybe it was a vinegar day. Mmmmmmm. “How about you, Kokichi? Any dreams?”

Kokichi hummed, pleased that Shuuichi slept well, though he acquiesced quickly to tea time, drinking his medicine down without complaint. Was he sick of the taste? Absolutely. Was there any way around it? Not really, unless he wanted to get a shot once a day, which, even if he was asleep for it, he definitely did not. 

Besides, the miso soup and sliced apricots he could see that Kaito had brought for him were more than enough to get the taste out of his mouth, and delicious to boot. 

“I slept well,” Kokichi hummed once he was done with his tea. “It’s always comfy with Shuu-chan’s arms around me. And...kinda… It felt like that forest we spent the night in when we went to the coast, but...I was watching this… I think it was a panther? But it was colored like an orange cat. And it was stalking and playing with butterflies in the clearing… Not a lot happened for a dream, but I might’ve forgotten. It was nice…”

“How was your morning, Kai-chan? Did Tim say if he wanted to hang out with us this afternoon?” ...he honestly hadn’t been sure. He hadn’t seen Tim at all since his attack and...he had a feeling it wasn’t just because he’d missed him while sleeping. He missed seeing his nephew, but...he understood if it was too boring hanging around someone’s sickbed. 

Kaito got the apricots ready to feed Kokichi, wondering how much he should say… “I actually only dropped Tim off to school a little less than an hour ago.” He said, giving the two of them a somewhat sheepish grin, “We ended up going to that diner over at the end of third? Sat down, ate some breakfast, had a really long talk about a lot of things. Walked around town a bit. Just… felt like Tim needed a morning with me, ya know?”

“Something wrong?” Shuuichi asked, eating through his sandwich. 

“No, no, not really… if anything, the only thing wrong is I just gotta remember I need to spend more time with the kid.” Kaito sighed, “I think I’m gonna start taking him out to breakfast more. Not during the school days, but I don’t know… sitting with him and just talking over food more regularly might do loads of good.”

“So is he spending time with us today?” Shuuichi repeated Kokichi’s question, “What are we doing today anyway? You two keep talking around something. Dinner and gifts?”

“Yeah, Tim’s going to join us. Cali and Kimiko might stop by and say happy birthday as well, Shuuichi, you okay with that?”

“Yeah, of course. Always nice to see the girls, and I see a lot less of them now that we’re not training in the morning.”

Kokichi eyes the apricots with interest, though he gave Kaito something of a surprised look. It was up to his discretion, naturally, being Tim’s dad, but… ...they were spending less time together now. Before, even when both Shuuichi and Kokichi slept in, Kaito still ran training for the kids--apparently Lake came by every now and then too now--but since his attack...he knew they hadn’t had it. Kaito took Tim to school but...otherwise was just with him. 

Swallowing his mouthful, Kokichi gave his husband a soft look. “That sounds great for the two of you. After a while, I’ll definitely be asking for a ranking of breakfast places in the city.”

Kokichi brightened a little at the prospect of seeing the girls--he hoped he wouldn’t worry them, seeing him like this--but he got a bit of a shifty grin as he glanced to Kaito before turning his smile onto Shuuichi. “Well, dinner and gifts are involved but…”

“I mean, if you don’t wanna do it, that’s totally fine!” Kokichi quickly prefaced. “It’s Shuu-chan’s birthday, so he can do what he wants! But...Kai-chan and I, with some help from my dad, put together a little something extra for you.”

Kokichi reached over, carefully pulling a little slip of paper out from a hidden spot under his pillow, handing it over to Shuuichi. It read, We made fearsome creatures of the night here once. The spice of life is easy to find, but you better bring your own protein.

Grinning bashfully, Kokichi explained, “...we set up a scavenger hunt for you. It’s all places in the castle, so there’s a limit, but… And it’s really no big deal if you’re not interested. Just thought it could be fun…”

Kaito startled a little, not having realized they were starting right away… they had made tons of clues though. Hopefully the kids would be able to join in near the end… well, if they did it at all. Shuuichi not saying anything yet, just staring at the paper. 

After a moment, Kaito said, “Shuuichi? What do you think, handsome, you up for th-”

Shuuichi put a finger up to his mouth, noiselessly shushing Kaito, brow slightly furrowed. Still staring at the paper… before murmuring aloud, “...made fearsome creatures of the night… fearsome creatures of the night… protein…” Shuuichi raised an eyebrow, “Who made this question?”

Kaito grinned, “Kokichi did, handsome.”

“...you can’t mean the sauna?” Shuuichi asked, cheeks tinting a little. 

Kokichi smiled a little as Shuuichi seemed to be putting serious thought to his clue. The kids wouldn’t be by for a bit, but...since Shuuichi was asking, Kokichi thought it couldn’t hurt to broach the subject. Figure out if this was something he actually wanted to do so they could make a plan for when the kids did come by. 

Besides, they still had to finish lunch. 

Kokichi let Kaito feed him a little more, and it was just luck that there was nothing in his mouth as he sputtered at Shuuichi’s guess, his own cheeks turning pink. “No! Like, I didn’t really wanna give you yes or nos for your guesses, but no, Shuu-chan! I did not make any questions like that!”

“...were we not supposed to make questions like that?” Kaito asked, blinking slightly, still holding the spoon full of Miso soup near Kokichi’s mouth, waiting for him to be ready for it. “I made a question like that.”

Shuuichi’s brow furrowed harder at this, staring daggers at the paper…

...before he looked up, a tad hopefully, “Did you guys make lots of these?”

“Not all of them are equally clever, but… yeah!” Kaito grinned, “You want to do it?”

Shuuichi’s eyes were lit up, clearly more than up for it as he asked, “How is this going to work?”

“So! We don’t have to do it like this, but this is the current idea,” Kaito said, clapping his hands together, “Like Kokichi said, Ikou’s already helped us set this all up. Now, our Kokichi came up with the idea of a scavenger hunt a few weeks ago, because’s he’s clever and considerate and charming and sexy like that, but… obviously we need to approach the idea of a ‘scavenger hunt’ in a different way, right now. So! When you're really ready to start? We’ve taken all the questions, and we’re going to give them all to you for you to look through however you see fit, either all at once or question by question, however ya want to do it! In various rooms around the castle, are pieces of your party today! Some rooms have your gifts, some rooms have your desserts, some just have decorations!-”

Some of those things would also come with people, hopefully, if the people Kaito had invited managed to arrive on time and were willing to wait to be ‘found’. Since he wasn’t sure about either of those things, he didn’t add that to the description, continuing to go-

“You’ll guess, and even if I know you’re wrong? Still gonna go check the room, cause maybe you’ll accidently guess another question’s answer and I’ll come back with one of your prizes! Or, I’ll come back empty handed… and, when they get off school? You can make multiple guesses, since I think the kids would be up to fetching your guesses too.”

Kaito paused, glancing at Kokichi, “Am I forgetting anything?”

Kokichi sighed, then ate his next spoonful of soup. Maybe those were riddles Shuuichi could solve before the kids came… But...it was looking like Shuuichi did want to solve them. In fact...he looked pretty excited. 

It wasn’t quite like lighting up, but light did start to glow in Kokichi’s face as it became apparent he’d thought of something his boyfriend genuinely seemed to like. 

Nodding along with Kaito’s explanation, Kokichi looked over at their clock before giving Shuuichi something of a sheepish look. “That’s pretty much it for the “rules”, but...sorry to tease ya so much Shuu-chan. Got kind of excited to see if you wanted to do this… There are a couple guesses that...aren’t quite ready yet, so I’m not handing those over just yet. And maybe giving them will be a clue on their own, but, well, it’s a concession I’m willing to make.”

“I would go to help fetch your prizes but…” Kokichi sighed softly, but didn’t look too down. “I’m gonna be help moderating your guesswork, I suppose! I’m gonna be stingy with hints, just ‘cause I know Shuu-chan can figure them out, but if you want clarification on something? Ask away!”

“...aaaaand I’ll get to spend all day at Shuu-chan’s side, while you send Kai-chan on a fetch quest all throughout the castle,” Kokichi smirked. “Makes up for missing training, in my eyes.”

Kaito pouted at that a bit, “Hey come on, everyone’s missing training right now. It’s not just me!”

Shuuichi leaned into Kokichi’s side, saying softly, “Losing a bit of his muscle definition, have you noticed?”

“What!?”

Kokichi swallowed another spoonful, smugly smiling at Kaito. “Think of today like leg day, hun. Though, I’m sure you could find ways to work out the rest of your body too. Use it or lose it, as I’ve heard you say.”

Kaito subconsciously flexed his arms and legs… he wasn’t losing that much definition… was he? It had been a few weeks… gah! Maybe he should do some pushups right now… darn it keep feeding Kokichi, stop rising to Shuuichi’s bait! 

Though he pouted as he said, “Just you wait… gonna be running your guesses faster than you can think them… gonna be like teleportation…”

Shuuichi snickered at that… before saying gently, “I love this idea, you guys. Thank you. I’m actually really excited to play… when can we start?”

“How about three? I’m fairly confident you’ll figure out the questions faster rather then slower, and that will be close enough to dinner time that by the time everything’s finished, we’ll all be ready to eat! Yeah?”

Honestly, despite the great faith Kokichi had in Shuuichi, he was expecting some wrong guesses. He and Kaito had done their best to make riddles that weren’t just blatantly obvious so...some of them were probably kind of misleading. But! Other than dinner, which was one of the last guesses that Kokichi was holding out on, none of the prizes were particularly time-sensitive, so it’d work out. 

Kokichi glanced at the clock again, trying to do a little bit of math, before he nodded, giving both his partners a grin. “Three sounds about right. And the kids will get here right at the beginning too. Hopefully we can get some helpers when Shuu-chan locates the decorations--as funny as it’d be to just have everything sit on a table, we did try to pick out things that would be nice.”

“And! That’s plenty of time after lunch,” Kokichi punctuated by eating another spoonful, “Tha’ if you find food first, we can eat without issue. Even if I don’t think that’d be an issue for you, Shuu-chan. Second stomach for sweets, right?”

“Better not be just feeding Miya sweets. Second stomach better be for healthy proteins and fresh vegetables.” Kaito grumbled, filling the spoon again… before, purely on impulse, when Kokichi went to take that bite, Kaito pulled it back and leaned in to steal a kiss. 

The kiss ended up having a bit more tongue than what Kokichi usually went for with surprise kisses. It wasn’t bad, of course, but he whined, deprived of soup. “Kaiii-chaaan. You just said no extra sweets. What a raging hypocrite, taking away my healthy food and just giving me sweets.”

Kato snickered, “No extra sweets for Miya, ‘Kichi. Kai-chan gets all the sweets he wants. I’m a tyrant like that. One more, than soup?” Kaito asked hopefully, leaning in for another kiss.

Kokichi gave Kaito a haughty, appraising look for a moment before sighing. “Well alright, if you insist. But only because I’m so magnanimous. And because I know I’m going to sneak our daughter sweets all the time.” He leaned forward slightly, giving Kaito another kiss before relaxing back against the pillows.

Kaito grinned, stomach fluttering slightly, entirely pleased by the kiss… though, “Hell no. If you think I’m not calling you out every time I see ya ruining our girls dinners, you got another thing coming, buddy. Shuuichi, you’ll back me up on this, right?”

“Mmmm…” Shuuichi thought about it, chewing thoughtfully, “Depends on if I want sweets, I guess. Spice… it’s not the kitchen, right? When did we… the kitchen Kaito cooks in?”

“We haven't actually started, handsome.” Kaito chuckled.

“Goooo loooook…” Shuuichi whined, still frowning at the paper.

“Food first.”

Kokichi sighed. “There’s nothing wrong with having dessert first, as long as you don’t fill up on it. It’s not like I’m gonna give her a whole cake before dinner--sweet things are just nice! A little candy here and there’s not gonna screw up her macros, or whatever.”

And he wasn’t above bargaining through bribery. Of course he wanted to be able to reason and listen to his daughter, but...sometimes kids were stubborn for actually no reason, and a little bribery would make things easier. 

Carefully chewing through his bread, Kokichi smirked a bit at Shuuichi. “We’re waiting ‘til three! So Shuu-chan can actually get the prizes from his guesses. It’d be a bummer if he gets everything right, but Kai-chan still has to come back empty handed just ‘cause we jumped the gun.”

“Though,” he sighed, “I know this is my fault, giving you a clue so early. I’ll submit myself to Shuu-chan’s impatient ire.”

“We have three hours still…” Shuuichi pouted…

Kaito chuckled, “It’s nice to see you excited. How about, to kill time, I share some old Shuuichi birthday stories? Most of them were pretty tame, but a few had some story worthy moments.” Kaito grinned.

Shuuichi rolled his eyes, “Whatever he says about my thirteenth birthday, you should know, Kokichi, it’s not my fault, that horse was ridiculously stubborn.”

With that, Kaito started to regale Kokichi with the story of how Kaito had gotten one of the horse trainers to take himself, Shuuichi and Maki out to the fields to run around full speed with the horses, only for Shuuichi to entirely lose control of his and everyone unable to catch up to him till they literally found him in the middle of the next town, looking increasingly hassled and annoyed as the horse took a break from its break speed run to sip at some other horses water barrel parked outside of a seedy looking pub.

Though, the seedy folks inside weren’t that bad, and bought the three drinks for Shuuichi’s birthday, before the somewhat frightened and overwhelmed horse-trainer finally managed to coax the teenagers away.

And while none of the other stories were quite as outrageous as the first one, more time was spent reminiscing over birthdays past.

It didn’t take long for Kaito to finish up feeding Kokichi as he told the story of the horse-riding trip gone funky, and Kokichi was free to laugh and gasp and grin in sympathy as the story went on. It was just another example of the crazy lives his friends lived, even if it was crazy by their own standards. Kokichi got the picture of how quietly Shuuichi would prefer to spend his birthdays, but...the things Kaito and Maki did for him always sounded fun. They sounded like lovely memories. 

And before they knew it--and, unfortunately, Kokichi did doze off a little at one point, but he stubbornly woke himself up, griping at his partners for letting him sleep--it was just about three-’o-clock. The kids should be by at any minute, and...hopefully other guests too. It was a really loose plan, since they hadn’t been sure if it was something Shuuichi would want, so it wasn’t like they--or, really, Kaito--told them to hang around if they had other things to do, but...it would be nice if some of them were able to swing by. 

Sitting himself up against the pillows a little more, Kokichi grinned at his boyfriend. “Well, it’s about time to put in a guess. Where are you sending Kai-chan off to?”

“Kaito, go check the practice kitchen!” Shuuichi barked, suddenly very excited, having just finished getting actually properly dressed for the day, actually looking very, very nice. And his determined, excited gleam in his eyes made him practically glow as he said, “I’m timing you! If you’re not back in two minutes you lose!”

“Lose? Lose what!?”

“You’re running out of time!”

“Gah!” Kaito bolted, heading out of the room at a breakneck speed, bee-lining for the practice kitchen.

Shuuichi laughed lightly as he watched Kaito run, before giving Kokichi a pleased, happy look, as he asked, “Can I see the questions now? Just start working through them?”

Kokichi giggled, almost getting a slap in the face of nostalgia for when Maki and Kaito goaded Shuuichi on in their first ever (and only) game of Prince Hefting. It had been a lot of fun then… And right now, Shuuichi looked so happy and excited…

Nodding, Kokichi brought out the rest of the hidden clues, looking through them himself for a moment before picking a few out--the clue for the kitchens most notable, since that was where they were gonna get dinner--and handing the rest over to Shuuichi. “So Kai-chan and I each wrote about half of them. Like I said, I have a cheat sheet, but I’m gonna be sparing since I know Shuu-chan’s a genius. How you wanna work through them is up to you--and as a freebie, the prize you get isn’t necessarily correlated to the room it’s in, so it’s gonna be a total surprise what you get!”

Shuuichi nodded, immediately opening up several of the notes, spreading them around himself and giving them all a brief glance. Some of them were long, some of them were really short, and based on handwriting, it was quick to tell who had written what. Hmmm… this really long one looked like a written logic puzzle, the sort of thing you’d get in school… Shuuichi would have to account for Kaito accidently not understanding his own logic… fourteen feet was roughly the average length of a floor of a building…

As Shuuichi puzzled over some of the riddles, Kaito busted into the practice kitchen, breathing heavily, looking around. What had Ikou put into here… oh! “Kirumi. Good day.” Kaito said, pausing and glancing around the room, “Uh, have you… seen any…”

“Good day, Prince Kaito. Your streamers are over in the corner. Ikou informed me of your game. I offered to make chocolate biscuits for the event, and while I wasn’t expecting you to arrive so early, thankfully, I have just taken them out of the oven.” Kirumi informed him simply, having just finished putting the cookies onto a nice plate. 

“Oh, um… thank you, Kirumi!” Kaito said, heading over to the corner and grabbing some of the streamers, before heading over to the woman and… sort of stopping a few feet away from her. Inexplicably too nervous to approach her as he said, “I’ll uh… I’ll let Shuuichi know you wished him a happy birthday!”

Kirumi put the plate down, putting her hands in front of her waist and bowing her head slightly, “Of course. Let me know if there’s anything else I can provide.” before heading out of the kitchen.

Grabbing the biscuits, Kaito ran back. “I have streamers and cookies!” Kaito called out.

“Hot tub! Go to the hot tub! You’re already losing, that took forever!”

“Gah!”

Before Kaito could head out again though, there was a knock at the door, “Mister Kaito! Prince Kokichi! We’re here! May we come in?” Kimiko called through the door.

Kokichi looked over at the cookies in slight surprise, though...he should’ve figured his dad would make this a little more interesting. Though...he could smell them all the way from the bed! They smelled fresh, all nice and chocolatey and good…

Mmm… It would be hard to hold back so he still had room for cake later. 

Laughing a little as Shuuichi immediately tried to send Kaito back out, Kokichi perked at the knock on the door, his smile growing warmer as he heard a voice he hadn’t heard for a bit. “Come right in! You guys are in luck, we just started the scavenger hunt!”

Kokichi smiled warmly as the kids came in. He hadn’t realized how much he’d missed them… He raised a gentle hand, managing to keep steady enough to avoid shaking as he gave the kids a wave. “Kimiko, Tim, Cali; hey! It’s nice to see you!”

“Kooookiiiichiii!”

Kaito, who had opened the door, giving a warm nod to Haneda and immediately leaning forward to pat Chase on the head, who had come up to his leg looking for said pats, bolted forward just in time, catching Cali mid-air as the nine-year old, excited and entirely unself aware of her own weight, had tried to leap full body onto the bed and onto Kokichi. 

Wiggling in Kaito’s arms, Cali grinned, before saying excitedly, “Hi, Kokichi! I heard you were dead!”

“What was it like? Was it weird?” Kimiko asked, though she had immediately bolted to Shuuichi, throwing her arms around him and, as he gave her a small pat on the back, squishing her face into his stomach and saying, “Hello, Miyako~ Happy birthday, Mister Shuuichi~”

“He didn’t die, he was just asleep for a couple of weeks.” Tim corrected them, rolling his eyes as he walked in, “Happy birthday, Uncle Shuuichi. Hello, Uncle Kokichi.”

Kokichi laughed softly, though he was thankful for Kaito’s interference. He wasn’t a bird, Cali wouldn’t break anything on him, but...it would hurt a lot, most likely. “I can’t really say it was that weird… It was just like going to sleep normally, I guess. I had a few dreams, mostly about flowers,” he gently gestured to the garden around him, “But it was just like a heavy sleep.”

Kokichi gave his nephew a softer smile, just...happy to see him. It was silly, since Kokichi was an adult now, but...that sting of having kids avoid him because they thought he was contagious...or even just because there was something wrong with him, and they didn’t want to be by him… He didn’t think that was why Tim hadn’t been by at all. But it was still kind of...relieving to see him. 

Sighing at the kids’ rambunctious natures, Haneda stepped into the room, giving Shuuichi a nod before she thrust out a small, neatly wrapped package at him, turning partly away. “Happy birthday. Don’t think you’re sending me on a wild goose chase today--I’ll have enough of it running after people who have...way too much energy still after school.”

Inside the present was a simple, but high-quality pocket cloth, the corner fancily emblemed with an “S.S.” Nothing too special, but Haneda had noticed that the Luminaries tended to carry around napkins so...she thought a personalized one would make a decent gift. Not like she really knew anything else to get the guy.

As Kaito took the three kids aside and asked them how they’d be willing to help, runners, decorators, Shuuichi opened it up and smiled, before giving Haneda a grateful bow of his head, “Thank you, Haneda, this is very nice. I appreciate you, and, I’d never dare ask you to run for the guesses. You already do so much with-”

“I’M GONNA BE A RUNNER!” Cali shouted at the top of her lungs, laughing as Kaito shushed her, giving everyone else in the room an apologetic look.

By the time Kaito and the kids had finished discussing, Tim and Kimiko had volunteered for decorating, though Tim was up to running when there wasn’t enough decorating to be put up, and Kaito and Cali were runners.

“So, any new guesses?” Kaito asked, “Did you say hot tub earlier? For which question?”

“The hot tub came to mind for a different question, but when I opened up ‘This room stands as testament that Kaito is the worst’, I realized that was the hot tub. Because you are the worst.”

“Heh heh. Yeah, I know.”

“Winter, Kaito.”

“Yeah.

“All of winter.”

“Yep! Alright, I’ll check the hot tub! Cali, await orders!” Kaito ordered her, heading out.

“Aye aye!” Cali shouted back, while Kimiko and Tim started working on the streamers, Chase going to sit by Shuuichi’s feet, the black dog looking up at Shuuichi with wide, black eyes, her tail thumping every now and again when Shuuichi glanced down at her.

Giving Chase a small pat-- more tail wagging-- Shuuichi said, “Sun, rain, snow, wind--it doesn’t matter here. As long as I get a little sun and a shower, no one will go hungry? That’s one of Kokichi’s, definitely, and I’m thinking it’s the greenhouse. Cali, do you know where the-oh, there she goes.”

Cali ran off, for some reason shouting some sort of battle yell the entire way down the hall.

Haneda sighed and headed out after Cali, relieved that Tim and Kimiko had opted to stay in the princes’ room for the most part. All three of them could get into trouble, but with Shuuichi and Kokichi there, not to mention a task at hand, she could trust Tim and Kimiko to just hang out. 

Cali? Would probably be fine, but Haneda was going just in case. 

Kokichi giggled softly as he watched Cali and Haneda go, not disappointed in the slightest that Shuuichi had found out his clue in an instant. He didn’t want to spell things out, but he was trying not to be as esoteric as possible. 

He turned to watch Tim and Kimiko’s progress on the decorations, smiling as he saw Kimiko explaining to Tim the best way to twist the streamers as you put them up so they hung all fancy on the walls. “Looking good, you guys. If you end up needing it, we have a step-stool in the bathroom, though it looks like you have things covered.”

Kimiko and Tim both blinked at Kokichi, Kimiko having just stepped one foot onto the chair, Tim starting to bend down… glanced at each other… “Eh, we’ll grab it if this doesn’t work.” Tim shrugged, as Kimiko started to crawl onto his shoulders.

Shuuichi rolled his eyes, “No, down. Go grab the step stool.”

Both of the kids seemed very disappointed with this development, though Kimiko got down and Tim went to grab it from the bathroom. 

Cali yelled all the way up the stairs and into the greenhouse, before immediately stopping, looking around… and, spotting a mildly confused Hajime, continued yelling as if she had never stopped as she bee-lined to him, “AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH hi Hajime! Are you part of the scavenger hunt?!”

“Oh, uh… yes, I am. Why were you yelling?”

“For energy!”

“Alright then. I’ve brought some gifts. I was just going to drop it off at the princes’ room, but Kaito thought it might be fun for me to wait in the room? So I said I would, but if Shuuichi isn’t coming, then what are we-ah!”

“COME ON! YELL WITH ME! ENERGY! LET’S GO!!” Cali shouted, grabbing Hajime’s elbow and tugging him, and his gifts, along.

And, because Hajime did have a bit of a sense of humor, he followed after her, both yelling, running past Haneda on the way back.

Aw...he wanted to see if they could do it. They both knew how to fall safely, and while their bedroom floor wasn’t exactly padded like the room they practiced tumbling in, Kokichi believed in them. Buuuuut it was responsible and safe to use the step stool. 

Adjusting himself a little in bed, Kokichi looked over at Shuuichi, enjoying the focused determination in his eyes. He really was such a striking guy… “Considering you’ve sent our runners to some of the farthest parts of the castle, we might have a little bit. Got any thoughts about where you’re thinkin’ next?”

Meanwhile, two floors up, Haneda just groaned as she watched Cali and now Hajime run past, and she promptly turned around. Luckily it was the middle of the afternoon--unlikely for anyone to try and be sleeping right now. 

Geez...did Cali really need extra energy?

“Let’s see…” Shuuichi mused, looking through more of the questions… before snickering, “I feel like I can tell when Kaito started just thinking of riddles he already knew and trying to make them fit a room. Some of these sound personal, some sound like right out of a kids book for riddles. Let’s see…”

“It’s too much! We can’t have something like this! It’ll destroy us!...” Shuuichi read aloud, raising an eyebrow. “This is the one I first thought was the hot tub? Like, maybe Kaito was just being dramatic about enjoying it? But then I saw the other question and realized you guys likely hadn’t done the hot tub twice...I know something about this is familiar… for some reason, I keep hearing this in Maki’s voice-oh!’

Shuuichi suddenly laughed, “The letter… when you sent us, or, Kaito, a letter after, uh…” Shuuichi glanced at Tim, who was taking the tape from Kimiko, the one on the top of the ladder, “The first time he was on bed rest here? I think all of us were a little tired and in a giggly mood, because we almost lost our minds at how cute that letter was. Maki tried to destroy it, saying it was gonna be the end of us, and Kaito had to physically stop her. It was… it was pretty funny.” Shuuichi said, with a fond smile. “So, I’m assuming it’s the room we read it in. The guest room Kaito was sleeping in.”

Kokichi’s eyes widened, but then he giggled, the sound tinkling and light. “Is that what that’s about? I was wondering…” He shook his head a little, a fond smile sticking to his lips. “You thought it was that cute, huh? I don’t really remember my mindset, honestly, but… I think I was just trying to be playful?”

His smile softened a bit, and Kokichi felt his gaze go far as he reminisced, lying back against the pillows. “It was after the first step I ever took in understanding Kai-chan, and...it was when you and Maki-chan first started playing with me too. For once, I didn’t feel jealous...I was just happy, spending time with you and...knowing that it’d continue. I had already gotten a good feeling about you and Maki-chan, but...I really started to like you guys after that.”

“Kinda funny my letter left that much of an impression.”

Shuuichi shrugged, his smile still warm, as he said, “That letter was a solid step in the right direction, as far as my impression of you. Or… to be more accurate, my impression of you as someone who wasn’t going to actively make Kaito miserable. There weren’t a lot of early signs that you two could actually make this work. You two are both so emotional, but in almost entirely different ways. The letter from you was the first time since I met you that Kaito looked actually, genuinely pleased about any of it. It was reassuring…”

“And, also, you are, just, very cute. It catches me off guard a lot less now cause I know you, but back then? It was like you had come in out of nowhere and vomited pink cotton candy onto the paper. Way caught us off guard.”

Shuuichi was going to go on, but there was sudden yelling coming down the hallway… “Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!! I found him!” Cali shouted, bringing in an equally yelling Hajime, who was breathing heavily, holding a gift.

“Ahhhhhhhh, hello!” Hajime said, giving them a somewhat sheepish smile, “Happy birthday, Shuuichi!”

In fairness, it would’ve been a long time from that day until Kokichi and Kaito knew enough about each other to make things work. That first fight in the greenhouse had been important, had cemented the fact that both of them wanted to try. But...it had also been incredibly damaging. Mostly on Kokichi’s end, at least from his own perspective now. It had been a slap in the face of just how horrible his mental health had been, but without him knowing either, it was phrased as reality and…

...well, they had achieved devotion. And any step was a first step. 

...it occurred to Kokichi that he should apologize to his husband for that fight. Not today, since they were in the middle of other stuff, but...soon. It might be too little too late, but he wanted to apologize anyway. Kaito hadn’t deserved to deal with all of that. 

Kokichi grinned a bit at Shuuichi calling him cute, but then looked to the door when he heard yelling, a little surprised to hear Hajime’s voice too, but he beamed as the man came forward. “Hi Hajime!”

Haneda came trailing by moments later, though she stayed out of the room, not wanting to crowd, and knowing Cali would likely be coming back out in just a moment.

“Cali! Head to the music room! Second floor, west wing!” Shuuichi called to her, and without missing a beat, Cali started shouting, heading out, running past Haneda again. 

Exchanging warm greetings with Hajime, the man gave Shuuichi his gift-- it was a board game, mostly picked by Chiaki, he confessed, that they had thought Shuuichi might enjoy. A settlement resource management game, Hajime passed on from his girlfriend her well wishes as well, and asked that if Shuuichi ever wanted to play but lacked players, the two of them would be more than happy to play, if invited. 

“I can’t stay, I have work today. But Kaito said it’d be fun if I hid in the greenery… I guess maybe you can expect other people as well?” Hajime asked, “Though, it’s a little weird for us to hide if you’re not actually going to the rooms…”

“Kaito and Kokichi kind of had to adjust this idea as they went. I’m sure Kaito just thought it’d be cute for people to randomly show up with gifts… though, I don’t envy anyone who’s waiting too long cause I can’t figure out a room.” Shuuichi laughed. “Thanks for stopping by Hajime, I appreciate you.”

“Shuuichi! I’m back! I’ve brought back gifts-”

“Throw them in, the guest room you slept in when you first got here next!”

“Ahhhh, got it!” Kaito shouted, throwing the small gifts onto the bed and bolting out again.

Opening up the small gifts… “Fancy soaps and bath bombs… nice.” Shuuichi decided, nodding in approval, sniffing one of the bathbombs, “Were these ones you or Kaito?”

Kokichi was definitely eyeing that game, even if the time he could reliably hold onto cards or game pieces was...not now, at least. But it still looked like it would be fun to play--it was a nice gift. And it would be fun to play with Hajime and Chiaki sometime too, even if Chiaki would inevitably whoop all their asses at it. 

“Sorry,” Kokichi chuckled sheepishly. “We had a few different ideas for how we wanted this scavenger hunt and party to go… But I’m glad you could make it, Hajime-chan. Hope your workday goes well!”

Peering over at the gifts Shuuichi got from Kaito, Kokichi was a bit curious about them too. “Kai-chan, unless they’re from someone else entirely. But considering that Kai-chan was okay throwing them in, I think it’s safe to say they’re from him. Mmm, our bathroom’s gonna smell so good when you use those!”

“We need more decorations.” Tim called out, heading over to the bed, “We put the streamers up.”

“They look very nice, thank you both. Why don’t you…” Shichi checked the questions, before scoffing slightly, “It’s nearby, why don’t you both go pick up whatever’s in Kaito’s Shrine, would you?”

“Ooooh, I haven't been in there yet! Let’s do it, Tim!” Kimiko said cheerfully.

Tim nodded, glancing at Chase, who seemed perfectly content to sit by Shuuichi, though he still said, “Stay, girl. Sure, let’s go see the shrine. He has all these posters of the saints up, they’re kind of interesting to look at, and he might have a bowl with some blood in it. Also, I can show you the hole I stabbed into the-” the door closed behind him.

“Don’t touch the bowl, it’s a sacred object!” Shuuichi called out behind them, before sighing, “Well, Tim knows that. Hopefully they won’t mess with it, I know it’d upset Kaito.”

For a moment, Kokichi was hesitant about the kids going to the shrine, but...well. It was really only him that had an issue with it. Kimiko wasn’t completely immune from being freaked out or scared, and thinking her love of horror meant that was a mistake, but she had never seemed to have an issue with blood, even real blood. And the context of the shrine wasn’t scary. Really, in the dark, it was quite comfortable. 

Nodding, Kokichi offered his partner a smile. “They can be hooligans at times, but they’re good kids. I’d hope they wouldn’t want to touch blood that isn’t theirs anyway, but since Tim knows that it’s for religious purposes, I think they’ll be alright.”

“...I’m glad you did read that clue out loud though,” he sighed, seeing the clue over by Shuuichi as he put it to the side. “I don’t think they’d catch it, but...Kai-chan… He did say he had clues like that…”

Looking over at the ones Shuuichi had left, Kokichi hummed softly. “...mine aren’t too easy, are they? I thought they would be a fun challenge, but looking at Kai-chan’s, I think I might’ve gone a little too literal…”

“Please don’t say that, I’ve been scratching my head about the pumpkin one for ages now.” Shuchi groaned, squinting at that particular clue, “I keep thinking it has something to do with the fall festival, but you all said it was all in the castle…”

“Besides, with all the love in the world towards Kaito? He tends to overcompensate for these sorts of things.” Shuuichi shrugged, looking with some amusement at the frog logic puzzle, “He thinks he’s stupid, so he probably thought he had to try twice as hard to not have all his riddles immediately guessed. Thus, we’ve got somewhat mathematical frog logic puzzles. Honestly, I just think it was incredibly sweet you two went to all this trouble. And your riddles are pretty sweet…” Shuuichi showed Kokichi the ‘Sparring, scheming, talking, running, squats and push ups… This place is really versatile, but my favorite thing to do here is sit under a tree with you.’ and smiled fondly, “The courtyard, right? I miss the tree. There was nothing more relaxing than dozing off watching everyone else running laps,” he laughed. “I like that. It’s a nice riddle.”

Kokichi smiled sheepishly. That one was a little misleading, he knew, especially since he had already referenced the time they carved pumpkins with his kitchen workshop clue. But it had been one of the first projects he had Shuuichi work on for him and...it had just been what came to mind. 

Grinning at the frog question, Kokichi laughed softly. He’d been a little confused at first, not sure what sort of riddle his husband had been going for at first. But it was still a good question. Among sweet, personal things, and...very personal things. 

Kokichi reached his arm out to touch against Shuuichi’s arm briefly before his energy left him, just...total adoration and love in his eyes. “I miss the tree too. But...it’ll still be there later. And as the weather warms up, it’ll be even sweeter to sit in the shade and watch the kids tire Kai-chan out.”

“...I had a dream once, I think,” Kokichi hummed, letting his eyes close. “Not recently. But...it was summer, and I was sitting under the tree. You were about to join me, just making sure Miya had her sun hat on. And I could hear Kai-chan and Maki-chan and Tim doing something in the yard. I was talking to someone else too, about how good things were, but I don’t remember who they were. Someone I really trusted, I know…”

“...It’s getting a little easier to look forward to Miya being born,” Shuuichi admitted. Before, equally confessing, “It hasn’t always been. There have been times where I’ve been… really, really dreading it. Like, just entirely full of fear at the thought. Just… scared she’d come out and I’d feel nothing for her. Or, even worse, like… feel actively resentful. Mentally, I haven't always been in a good place, when it comes to this pregnancy…”

“But, lately, my daydreams about it have gotten more pleasant. Stuff like your dream. Just… little, nice moments. Putting a sunhat on her is a new one, but I can so easily picture it now. And the mental image makes me happy, rather than anxious... it’s not consistent. I still have low, frightened moments. But it’s been getting better.”

Kokichi opened his eyes, giving Shuuichi a soft, understanding look. Because while he could never know exactly how it felt for Shuuichi...he did understand to an extent. And it was just...amazing how far they’d come from there. 

“I’m happy that you feel happy now. Even if you didn’t, even in the moments where it’s more scary than happy...that’s okay. But...I am excited to raise our daughter together.” Again, Kokichi reached out towards Shuuichi, though this time he just trailed his fingertips against his boyfriend for a short moment. “I think it’s lucky, that she’s gonna have the three of us. Among everyone else too… We’re not perfect, but...when we have low, frightened, anxious moments...we have the space to be those things. And people to help us up so we can get going again. And other people can hold down fort for a bit while we get there.”

Shuuichi was half tempted to make some sarcastic comment about Miya getting three broken parents for the price of one… but honestly, he didn’t really feel that way. So he just softly agreed, “Yeah. We’re lucky.”

When Cali got back first, she had a record player, which Haneda was helping her carry, Cali herself carrying the records. “We weren’t sure if these were for the party! We may have stolen them!” Cali cheerfully announced, looking entirely pleased with herself.

Tim and Kimiko were next, each of them holding a large bag filled with already blown balloons. “When did Kaito even find time to do this?” Shuuichi wondered aloud, staring in mild horror as the kids immediately started spreading the balloons around, Chase suddenly getting excited, bumping the balloons against her nose. It had taken such a long time for the balloons to disappear last time… there had been complaints… Kaito really liked blowing balloons…

Kaito, in turn, brought back clothes. “I know it’s not the style you usually wear,” Kaito confessed, looking at the sweatpants and nice t-shirts and hoodie, “But I thought after the surgery you’d want something a little soft and loose to wear, and I thought maybe I’d splurge on getting you something both practical and that would look really nice… oh! You guys went to the shrine!” Kaito realized, looking at the balloons… before turning red and saying somewhat urgently, “You haven't opened the gift from there yet, right?”

“There was a gift? We didn’t see it.” Kimiko said curiously, “I can go back and get it, Mister Kai-”

“Nope! Quite alright! I’ll give it to him later! Thank you Kimiko!”

Kokichi giggled softly, though as Haneda set up some music to play, fiddling with the record player so it was soft enough to rest under them talking, but still filling the room with music… Something peaceful came over his face, and every now and then someone might’ve been able to catch Kokichi humming under his breath. 

Paired with the balloons soon filling their room, along with all the plants? Their room really started to feel like somewhere magical. 

Though Kaito was there to bring him back down to earth. 

He gave Kaito a somewhat exasperated look but smoothed it quickly, looking over the clothes he’d gotten Shuuichi. It really was a thoughtful gift. “Kai-chan’s really put a lot of thought into Shuu-chan’s birthday, huh. Between the clothes and the soaps, it’s like he’s trying to make a web of comfort.”

“A web of comfort. You make it sound nefarious, ‘Kichi.” Kaito grinned, “I’m allowed to want to spoil you guys.” He seemed to consider saying something else, but considered the children in the room, “Where next?”

The next guesses were-

Cali, to the study for the frog question: A frog, valiant and skilled, manages to jump fourteen feet at a time! To show off to his friends, the front agrees to jump not once, but three times, all in succession, without touching the floor again, in the morning. But to avoid the sun in his face, the frog moves around the castle till the sun is comfortably just on the left side of his face. As he said he would, the jump leaps up three times, aiming for the window ledges! What room window does the frog end up outside of?

Kaito, to the courtyard, for the tree question. 

And, because they offered, Kimiko and Tim headed to the library, for: What’s in a name? A lot of letters, which is what’s here too!

And literally five seconds after Tim and Kimiko left… “The mailroom! Dammit!”

Kokichi snickered, contextual hints be damned. “To be fair, there are a lot of letters in the library too. I hope they don’t try and interrogate Malcolm too much--the guy’s organized, but only just.”

Kokichi shook his head a little, thinking of their librarian. “Really, I’ve never seen someone so disoriented that has everything down pat. It’s a unique skill I don’t think has ever been theorized before.”

For a moment, Kokichi was just happy to listen to the music and watch Chase mess around with the balloons...but even with dinner, cake, and more goodies waiting, those cookies looked real good. “Hey, Shuu-chan? Do you wanna split a cookie?”

“Let’s eat all of the cookies and if Kaito asks we’ll blame it on the dog.”

“I think Haneda-chan would actually kill us for insinuating we’d feed a dog chocolate,” Kokichi smirked. Though, it soon softened into a sheepish smile. “...plus I think it’ll be the most solid thing I’ll have eaten in a while. As good as they look, I think I can really only handle half…”

“I’d hate to face Haneda’s wrath… alright then…” Shuuichi leaned over and ran a thumb across Kokichi’s cheek, before leaning forward and placing a kiss on his forehead. “I won’t be upset if you fall asleep. I hope you know that. Today’s already been lovely.”

He went to go grab a cookie and, taking off a small piece, offered to feed it to Kokichi.

“I’m glad…” That’s all he had wanted, really. For Shuuichi to smile and laugh and snicker and joke and...look so happy and excited… He wanted today to be good for his boyfriend. That it was succeeding, despite some of the snags they’d hit along the way, was all Kokichi could ask for. 

That said…

Kokichi hummed happily as he carefully munched through the cookie, his jaw getting a bit of a workout, though the cookie was soft and the chocolate melted in his mouth. “There’s no way I’m sleeping through the cake, though. And Shuu-chan still has to find my present to him.”

Cali came back first, holding a small stack of books with a ribbon on it. Shuuichi raised an eyebrow at the books, not recognizing the series, but immediately recognizing why Kaito might have decided to risk this kind of present. “A series of light novels about a handsome detective investigating criminals who have fallen in love with him, half mystery/half romance/half satire… I think Kaito literally just bought himself a present and is disguising it as a gift to me… Also I think whoever wrote the summary to this book doesn’t understand what ‘half’ means…” Shuuichi raised an eyebrow, “Unless that’s the joke…”

Tim and Kimiko came back with… an extremely confused looking Drake. Who Kaito hadn’t managed to get word to in time to set him up in a room, not actually knowing where he lived or how to get a hold of him. Tim recognized him though from him visiting Shuuichi a few times the last few weeks as he said, “This is one of yours, right? He didn’t seem to know what we were talking about.”

Kaito came back with Kokichi’s gift, huffing, before saying, “Oh! There you are Drake! Hey, glad word made it to you! Um, speaking of that… How are the rest of those questions coming, handsome? There’s one more person waiting and I’m starting to feel a bit bad about it-”

“OFFICE!” Shuuichi suddenly shouted, after giving Drake an excited hello, glad to see his friend for his birthday, “I did work on pumpkins in the office!!”

“Oh thank god I’ll be right back,” Kaito said quickly, running off.

For a moment, Kokichi had almost thought Cali had returned with his gift, though the spines of the books were completely different. And, apparently, the genre too, as Shuuichi read out the synopsis on the back. “Huh… Well, whichever one of you ends up reading it, I wanna read at least the first one next. It sounds terrible, but I’m kind of intrigued…”

Though, Kokichi was half convinced Kaito just got them out of roleplay potential. 

Drake...was confused. He knew he had to be at the castle today, and he knew to bring something with him, but...he actually had no idea that it was Shuuichi’s birthday, and that they were sort of throwing him a surprise party until Shuuichi’s nephew explained everything. Now he was glad he’d brought the book he’d gotten for his friend. 

He startled at Shuuichi’s sudden outburst, still a little fuzzy on the specifics of the...game? They were playing, but he gave his friend a smile. “Um, it’s not wrapped, but I did get this book for you. Happy birthday, Shuuichi.”

It was one of a series, though they weren’t in any particular chronological order, called ‘History’s Mysteries’, written by a high profile name in the vampire community, a person who had dedicated their work--among other unrelated projects--to debunking supernatural-seeming mysteries, pointing out more plausible theories for what was happening. Sir Cox wasn’t covering up magical interference, as much as some of his peers wished him to do so, but found genuinely natural mysteries to cover…though he did have a sister series with the same premise, but going into magical mysteries and debunking myths that were prevalent even in the community. 

It was just...weird and pragmatic and something Drake had thought his friend would enjoy. 

Meanwhile, Kokichi strained a bit on the bed, trying to adjust the stack of books--shit… Shuuichi was getting so many books… Would he like them?--to present them to his boyfriend. Though...it was difficult when he couldn’t sit up by himself.

As Shuuichi sent off Kaito, Cali, Kimiko, and Tim again, he laughed in delight at Drake’s gift, looking it over. “You got me a gift and you didn’t know I was having a party? That’s incredibly sweet for you to do that on your own, Drake, thank you. And this looks interesting. Sort of book I’d enjoy reading just to regale Kaito and Kokichi with random historical false supernatural trivia. Thank you.”

Looking over to Kokichi, he saw with… well, some amusement as Kokichi struggled with his stack, but… only if he didn’t think about why Kokichi was struggling too hard-- which would make him sad-- before reaching over. “May I have my gift, Kokichi? I’m excited for it. Everything you’ve ever gotten me has been really nice… you’ve set a high bar, I’m afraid,” he laughed gently.

Drake grinned, shrugging a bit. “Call it a happy coincidence? I really like this series and I thought you would too, so I picked up one of them to give to you sometime...and then I ran into your nephew and...well. You’re welcome.”

Sighing, Kokichi gave up trying to reach out for the books, though he gave his boyfriend a soft smile. “I hope this lives up to it… I didn’t wanna keep giving you pens forever, even if they are helpful gifts, so I tried something a little different.”

“I’ve never read these myself, but I’ve read others by the same author and they were really engaging… I thought it’d be nice to have something entertaining on slow days, you know?” ...if Shuuichi didn’t like them, felt a little over encumbered with books, Kokichi didn’t mind going out some time in the future to find a new present. It just...might be a bit until he could. It was incredibly lucky that he’d bought the books before his attack…

Shuuichi smiled, reading the description on the inside of the cover… before laughing lightly. “You would get me the ‘serious’ version of what Kaito got. You’re both kind of cute like that… I imagine the mysteries in these books will be a bit more interesting than Kaito’s thinly veiled dime romances.” Shuuichi smirked, reading the descriptions with interest, before smiling, “I love it. Thank you Kokichi.”

Giving his boyfriend a kiss, Kaito came back with Nadya, who seemed mildly amused it had taken so long to ‘find’ her. Accepting her gift and giving her a warm welcome, Cali came back next from the study-- “It’s small! I bet it’s gold!!”-- before cheerfully delivering a small white envelope to Shuuichi that, strangely enough, in Kaito’s handwriting, had the big, bold letters WITH CONDITIONS!!!

Shuuichi raised an eyebrow at that, giving Kaito a curious look, who just looked… a little pale, actually. Like he kind of wanted to snatch the envelope back and say ‘sike, nevermind!’ and was just barely holding back. “What on earth could this be-”

Before Shuuichi could open it though, Tim and Kimiko came back, Tim holding a small, similarly sized stack, holding it up like a prize. “Uncle Shuuichi! You have mail!”

Distracted by the stack, Shuuichi put the WITH CONDITIONS!!! envelope aside, taking the stack and looking over it curiously… before his face softened. “Oh…”

...just… lots of letters from friends at home.

Much like with Kaito, their mutual friend group had decided to reach out for Shuuichi’s birthday. He didn’t have nearly as many as Kaito had gotten, but Shuuichi was more than touched to see how many of them had reached out regardless. There was a letter from Yuta. Fuyuhiko and no doubt Peko. Tabitha had written, that was nice of her… Secretary Cole? Very kind of him to reach out, Shuuichi had always hoped the secretary had been as fond of their talks as Shuuichi had been… Micheal, Keaton…

… his eyes widened.

She had written.

Well, her and Maki’s mentor, according to the envelope, had both written… maybe Mr. Nidai had forced her to put her name on it as well… that sounded like him…

...sighing, Shuuichi smiled. Putting the letters aside and saying, “I’ll go through those later. But that’s lovely to get.”

...he liked them. Kokichi smiled into the kiss, his heart set at ease. And it was kind of emblematic of them, Kaito getting a fun, sexy parody while Kokichi did the same premise in earnest. It could be fun if they found a novel and a light novel with the same premise, and read them side by side. 

Kokichi gave Nadya a weak wave when she entered, trailing Kaito. They had seen each other since he’d woken up, Nadya wishing him well on recovery and gifting him a nice heating pad, but for the most part, she spent her working hours alone in the office. It was still very nice to see her. 

Nadya had two small gifts to give, though the first one, what looked to be a tin of mints, she gave with a small warning. “I would not try these today, since your partners went through the trouble of acquiring food you quite enjoy. These are a sort of gag treat, known as Miracle Berries. They change how one’s tongue senses taste, and can be quite fun to try different foods with.”

Her other gift was a thin silver chain bracelet, elegant, but simple. Nadya explained that she knew Shuuichi didn’t tend to wear similar accessories, but she thought there would be something about this one he could enjoy. 

...and in a subtle, quiet moment, she explained to him in hushed words what the chain really was. A simple protection charm. Her magic was not strong enough to ward against life-changing disasters, but it should be enough to provide some defence against things that would spark mundane anxieties. 

She wasn’t overly worried about the fairies, they had been quite polite. But if there were other magic folk that liked to bring humans in for sneaky games...this would keep Shuuichi out of it. 

As Shuuichi got all his envelopes, Kokichi smiled softly. “It’s not much of a present we set up, but...Kai-chan and I thought it could be fun to make just getting your mail a game too. I’m sure you can kinda figure it out now, but...does Shuu-chan want the last riddle?”

Shuuichi had looked at the charm with more than a little surprise-- the existence of magic, while sort of reality shaking in its own right… hadn’t really affected Shuuichi much, personally (that he knew of) and honestly he found himself going long stretches of time never thinking about it. Still, the gesture left him feeling curiously touched, a little startled that Nadya would go to the trouble to get him something that would protect him, and he gave her an extremely sincere thank you for the gesture, promising to put her gift to use and wear it.

Putting it on, Shuuichi looked around his party… and it really did look like a party now. Streamers everywhere, balloons, music playing, the scent of warm cookies as he was surrounded by friends, family and presents. 

“Please do,” Shuuichi said, even as he knew he was already going to miss this. His desired day of sleep would have been nice… but he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t enjoying this greatly. “What’s the last riddle?”

With a shaking hand, Kokichi reached over into his hiding place and brought out one last slip of paper. It was dinner time, and while they’d be bringing up other treats as well, everything should be ready. Chako had given Kaito a rough estimate of what to expect, and she said that the rest of the kitchen staff had agreed to set aside some food specifically for their party, instead of just making up plates of what was going to be made for everyone. 

A few of us SINK time in here, though it never PANned out. 

It was a simple one, but...well, that was okay. It hadn’t been about stumping Shuuichi. And getting that pasta and olive oil, a baguette with various accoutrements, like butter or a spicy pepper spread or balsamic vinegar, a pickled salad, a spinach salad too, and of course the puff cake… It was going to be a good haul. 

Kaito couldn’t help but pout. “Allll the reasons we could have referenced that place… so many references… had to be that one.”

Shuuichi, in turn, chuckled, giving Kaito a fond look. “It makes a cute riddle, Kaito. And, considering what I’m expecting to get from it… Cali, Kimiko, Tim? Would you all mind going down with Kaito to the kitchens?”

“To the kitchen! AHHHHHHH!!!!” Cali screamed, running out of the room, and without missing a beat, Kimiko and Tim followed suit, both of them shouting as well as they trailed after her.

“Guys, guys, do NOT run through the whole castle yelling, hey! Come back here!” Kaito shouted, running after them, Chase getting excited and, barking, running after behind him.

Kokichi grinned with only a slight bit of bashfulness. “The puns held me hostage, hun. They needed to be made. My brain wouldn’t leave me alone about it.” Though, he had tried to think of more puns to fit in, making more references to the kitchen. But...nothing else really came to mind, in any way that wasn’t just saying the names of things that were in a kitchen. 

He watched Kaito run after the kids fondly, and...it was just him, Shuuichi, Nadya, and Drake. Which wasn’t uncomfortable in any sense, though Drake, after a moment, rubbed the back of his neck, looking around at all the flowers and decorations. “Er...I know how it is for the castle in general, but...do you want me to stay for food? Like...I don’t know if this was supposed to be a family thing…”

“... I mean, neither of you have to stay if you have other things you’d rather do…” Shuuichi smiled, “But, if you wish to stay, I just got a new board game that seems a bit interesting…”

Nadya grinned, giving Drake a kind look. “Shuuichi in a competitive setting is quite the sight to behold. I for one would relish the opportunity to put my hand into the ring against him, as they say.”

Drake gave his friend an interested look. He’d known Shuuichi could be almost scarily competitive, but that had mostly been in debates in class. “Let’s give it a go, then. We...we’d all be learning at the same time, right?”

Shuuichi had nodded earnestly, bringing the puzzle table over to the bed, after a brief debate deciding to just try to play over the puzzle itself, taking out the rule book and the three of them starting to set up, reading through the book as, after a while, there was the sound like a stampede, and Shuuichi was surprised when the door opened, Kaito calling out, “We’ve got food!”

“We’ve got ALL THE FOOD!” Cali agreed loudly, hurrying in with a genuinely impressive amount of food on her tray, Tim carefully holding the cake as Kaito held a tray of even more food, Kimiko holding the door for all of them. 

“We’ve got cake too! And Miss Chako said Happy Birthday, Mister Shuuichi!” Kimiko called out, before her eyes lit up, “Are you playing a game?”

“We’re trying to, yes. We’re not sure how to play it yet,” Shuuichi said gently. 

“Can I watch?” Kimiko asked, scooting in to Shuuichi’s side, eyes wide with interest. Cali and Tim didn’t look as interested, the two collecting their own food and, Chase following, heading over to the window seat, Cali regalling Timothy with some observation she had made down in the kitchens, Tim listening attentively, though his expression was unimpressed and neutral.

Kaito brought Kokichi his portion of the meal, giving him a kiss before saying, “More tea, handsome? Just to top you off before bed tonight? Then soup and cake?”

Kokichi smiled into the kiss, excited for dinner. Usually his appetite wasn’t all there when he was in recovery, but being awake for much longer than he usually was today got his stomach going. “That sounds great, hun. Can you prop me up a little higher so I can watch the game?”

Friends hanging out together, the kids occupied and engaged, even Haneda looked at peace as she ate dinner, keeping an eye on everyone else--though mostly the kids. The music was still playing and under the scent of the food, the smell of flowers was still ever-present. 

This wasn’t exactly how Kokichi imagined Shuuichi’s birthday going, but the mood in the room was friendly and happy, and Kokichi was content with it all.

-

Kaito was in the middle of cleaning up-- they had agreed that this time, they wouldn’t leave the balloons to figure themselves out, and that Kaito would actually deflate and dispose of them-- when he turned to Shuuichi, who was looking idly through the book Drake had gotten him and grinned, saying quietly, “Wanna see if I can inhale this entire balloon in one breath?”

“You can’t,” Shuchi said simply, also keeping his voice quiet, Kokichi having nodded off a little bit after cake, snuffling softly against the pillow propped up against Shuuichi’s arm. He had a bit of icing on his cheek that Kaito was planning to clean off in a bit, but had found it too adorable when he saw it and decided to leave it till the balloons were done. “But I want to see you try.”

“I totally can.”

“You really can’t.”

“Okay, watch.”

Kaito pinched a hole into the balloon, put it to his mouth, starting to rapidly breathe in…

Cough, cough cough!

“I told you.” Shuuichi smirked, as the rest of the balloon blew out rapidly around Kaito’s coughing face.

Kokichi’s snuffles abruptly cut off, and he sleepily blinked his eyes opened, awakened by the sound of coughs. Really...he wasn’t too sure when he had fallen asleep in the first place, but considering the darkened sky, the lack of company, and that it looked like Kaito was cleaning up...he’d slept through the rest of the party. 

Which was alright, and he genuinely meant it. He had been awake and alert for hours that afternoon, and had been able to participate in the majority of the party. Able to witness Shuuichi figuring out their clues and see him get all their presents, watching the board game, getting a nice slice of a decadent cake… It had been a good party, and it didn’t feel dampened by his health. 

He probably should just go back to sleep, but Kokichi cleared his throat softly, looking over at his partners. “...’vrything good?”

“S-sorry-” cough, cough, “Sorry ‘Kichi! Everything’s fine, just got something in my throat.”

“Got a whole balloon in his throat.” Shuuichi rolled his eyes, though he placed his book down and said, “Are you awake, Kokichi? I wanted to open up my last gift while you were awake, but it can wait till tomorrow if you’re going right back to sleep.”

Last gift? ...oh! The conditional letter! Kokichi actually didn’t know what that was about either, so he was rather curious what Kaito had proposed. 

Adjusting himself a little, trying not to sink into the pillows so much, Kokichi reached up to rub his eyes of sleep, He was awake and staying that way! “Open it now! While it can be nice to draw out birthday celebrations, I’m curious. ‘N I’m awake enough. Can still spend a little more time with you guys tonight…”

Kaito, who had cheerfully given Shuuichi his gift from the shrine after everyone else had left, had greatly preferred giving Shuuichi his sexy underwear-- “Kaito, these are huge. I’m not going to wear these while I’m pregnant, and they’re not going to fit me afterwards.” “I’ll get them tailored!” “You will not.”-- to, uh… this. “Look, I’m just saying, when you open it? If you decide you don’t want it, that’s fine! That’s more than fine! I am super okay with that, don’t worry about the gold, alright? We can consider it a donation to the-”

Shuuichi, who had reached over to grab the envelope from the top of the stack of letters as soon as Kokichi had said he was up for it, had opened it up regardless of Kaito’s ramblings, and reading it over, lit up, “-Reptile Wildlife Rehabilitation and Preservation Society? You got me a snake?!”

“No! I mean… kind of? Yes? Sort of! I got you a snake with conditions! Conditional snakes! Snakes with precautions!”

Kokichi’s eyes widened as his expression softened, smiling up at his husband. “That’s incredible, Kai-chan. And as much as I’d immediately wanna start making plans for a nice, cozy terrarium...what are the conditions?”

As much as Kokichi had encouraged his lovers to get pets...it really had been something they’d put by the wayside. Every time Kokichi remembered, he vowed to start making plans to look up reptile breeders or head to an aquarium shop, but...it never happened. 

That Kaito, who definitely had more than a few reservations about snakes, had gone out of his way to put the wheels in motion to get Shuuichi his snake? Kaito had really gone above and beyond for this birthday. 

Kaito sighed, rubbing the back of his neck-- what was he thinking?? This was a terrible idea… but he had known Shuuichi would be so excited… it had been too hard to resist making his boyfriend happy…-- he started to explain, “So, I’ve gone and spoken to the guys over at this reptile society place. Horrible, by the way, half their animals are just… out… staring at you… like they wanna swallow you whole…” Kaito shivered, but continued on valiantly, “I’ve paid for a terrarium thing to be installed and delivered when we’re ready for it. And it is not being installed in here, by the way. That’s one of the conditions. It’s going into your study, okay?”

Shuuichi nodded, though frowned as he asked, “I only just got the study. When did you set this up?”

“Hajime’s been helping me, actually. I went down to the actual location just to verify things, sign the paperwork and pay the fees for a few hours the other morning, but he was the one who did the research and everything when I told him what I was trying to get done. You getting the study in time was a happy coincidence, we were trying to work out a plan with the castle to let the terrarium be installed in public somewhere as some sort of display, or more likely a room just for the snake… just knew it couldn’t be in the nursery or our room.”

Shuuichi, though he found the idea of a snake just… ‘around’ in one of the hallways a little amusing, preferred the idea of his snake not being a ‘public display’ and just nodded. “Okay, I can agree to that. In my study. What else?”

“We’re picking a snake that was already raised as a pet with other children. No baby snakes, no untested snakes. Apparently this severely limits our choices, but I don’t want you spending years getting attached to a growing snake that, once it’s full grown, decides a five-year-old looks like a snack. I want an older snake we can trust… relatively,” Kaito finished grimly.

“Okay…” Shuuichi nodded again. He liked the idea of having a bigger snake anyway. No baby snakes. Got it.

“That said! Third condition! I don't care if the snake is amazing with children. It is not allowed out of its terrarium around Miya. Just… no. If I see a snake curling around our infant daughter, I’m going to vomit all of my insides out of me. No.” Kaito paused, before saying, “And, honestly, if any of the kids say the snake tried anything funny with them? I’m taking the kids’ side. The snake gets no benefits of the doubt. It tries to eat any of our kids, it’s out.”

Shuuichi was fairly certain that wasn’t going to be an issue, so more to reassure Kaito than anything else, he nodded, “Certainly. If that’s all-”

“And you have to find someone you can trust who would be willing to take care of it if we’re all out of commission, before we get the snake,” Kaito added in, squaring his shoulders at Shuuichi’s mildly annoyed look at that. “I’m just being practical here. If I’m put in a position where you and Kokichi both need bedside assistance, or one of you is away somewhere and the others out of commission, and I’m taking care of Miya and Tim? In competition with all of that, the needs of a snake in your study are going to take a backseat, whether I mean to or not. You need to have someone not afraid of snakes who’s willing to take up the slack if anything happens. Okay?”

Shuuichi… hesitated. Not sure who he could ask to do that…

Kokichi smiled slightly, looking a bit dreamy at the thought of a bunch of reptiles being out in the Society headquarters. A place to go see a bunch of snakes and cute little geckos and elegant bearded dragons...all without having to walk past a bunch of tarantulas and scorpions. “I think I’d like to go visit the society some time… Guess not when we’re getting Shuu-chan’s snake, but it’d be a fun afternoon, I think.”

Though, for all he was absolutely for getting Shuuichi a snake...he could live without it being in their room. Wouldn’t have to adjust to having its heat lamp on, and wouldn’t get startled in the middle of the night from it moving around. And, honestly, Kaito’s other conditions were reasonable. They wouldn’t have to work from the ground up socializing the snake, and...well, there were rules about pets hurting people. And getting someone to look after the snake if they were indisposed…

Seeing Shuuichi’s hesitation, Kokichi reached out and placed his hand on his boyfriend’s arm. “No harm in asking around. There are a lot of people we can ask--it’s kind of like asking someone to pet sit, you know? Can’t say it’s a question that’s come up a lot, but...I mean, there are wild snakes I’ve seen sometimes in the backyard. I don’t think there’s anyone who’s particularly scared.”

Kaito felt like an asshole as Shuuichi continued to look somewhat uncertain, but refused to take it back. Those were his conditions, and he was sticking to them.

“Yeah, I’ll ask around… maybe Hajime won’t mind? He helped you find the snakes in the first place, I doubt he’s afraid of them then… I’ll find someone. When can I go pick my snake?”

Kaito sighed, letting his shoulders deflate a little. “With the payment already put through, we basically have a terrarium on hold indefinitely. So, whenever you’re ready to do it. We can even wait till after Miya’s born, if we need to… can wait forever if we need to...”

Shuuichi wanted to do it right away. He was more than willing to make the shitty, awful journey out into town and back up all these damn stairs if he was promised a snake by the end of it. But… he laughed. 

“Thank you, Kaito. This is a very nice gift. I’ll admit… knowing how much you don’t want this to happen kind of makes it sweeter. I appreciate you being willing to do something like this…”

Kaito waved his hand slightly, shrugging. “I mean...look, in theory? I know that snakes aren’t that dangerous. If I actually thought they were dangerous, it’d be a hard no. They just… fucking give me the willies, man. But, if having a snake would actually, you know… I don’t know, give you a sense of comfort? Fine, I’m all about it… if it eats Miya though, we’re getting a divorce.”

“We’re not married.”

“Like, in general. Long term threat. Thirty-year-old snake eats thirty-year-old Miya? Kaito’s out. Gonna go live in the woods somewhere, be an anti-snake hermit. Wear nothing but snake leather in vengeance. Stop showering. You guys wouldn’t want to be around me anyway, trust me, it’d be a bad time.”

Kokichi laughed softly at Kaito’s blatant reluctance, but...well, Shuuichi said it well. Giving a gift you both could enjoy was wonderful. Giving a gift you hated, but knew that the recipient would be over the moon? It was really something selfless and special. Just another among hundreds of reasons why Kaito was the best. 

And, also, snakes were just cool. As long as they were socialized and fed regularly, there shouldn’t be any problem at all with one getting aggressive. Faintly, Kokichi could imagine Miya touching Shuuichi’s snake for the first time, being amazed at the cool feeling of scales… Another member of their family. 

Kokichi hummed happily, leaning over a little to rest his head against Shuuichi’s side. “I wouldn’t wanna imagine a Kai-chan-less life, but if he’s gonna be so smelly… Do you have an idea what you wanna name your snake, Shuu-chan? Or are ya gonna wait until you meet it?”

“I think I’d want to wait to meet it first. A name might just call out to me, you know? I think I’d want to give it a name with some weight, though. A name of legend… not something like ‘Snakey McSnake Face’.”

“Mmm… No Adderline, or Anguis? Belinda or Donelle? Noodle?”

Kaito perked up at this. “Noodle? I like noodle… a snake named Noodle is kinda cute.”

“I just said I want a name with weight. I’m not naming my cool snake ‘Noodle’.”

“Noodle Snakey McSnake Face the third?”

“Even the implication that we’ve made that same mistake twice before is horrifying…”

Kaito grinned, finishing up with the balloons he was deflating, putting them in the bin before heading over and giving Shuuichi a small kiss. “Happy Birthday, handsome.”

-

In one sense, things hadn’t changed much in Kokichi’s sleeping consciousness. Color and form were back and didn’t waver, but it had just become the same thing Kokichi saw when he was awake--his room. Not to the extent they were in reality, but Kokichi had even added some flowers to his mindscape, filling in his reasoning for the smell that accompanied him in sleep. 

Kokichi figured Chibi Kaito’s universe was back in action, but...the creature had decided to stay with him for the time being. As had Alter Ego, for a long time, though they left to go back to their own space in Hiro’s mind more now, particularly when Kokichi was awake. Really, he was glad he was doing better to the point his friend felt alright leaving, though the weeks they’d spent with him were… Kokichi barely knew how to express how thankful he was. 

Instead of a long, confusing, lonely stretch in the dark, Kokichi had spent the most unstable time of his recovery surrounded by friends and reminiscing about happy times. It meant the world to him. 

But even so, as Kokichi woke up in his mind, he wasn’t quick to call out to his mentor, figuring that they would appreciate the rest from constantly being around him. For the time being, he simply stretched out in bed luxuriously, shifting beneath the sheets with much more ease than his real body had. 

三⊂( っ⌒◡|

Chibi Kaito, who had been entertaining himself on the bed, noticed Kokichi moving around and, running across the bed, smushed his face into Kokichi’s side, rubbing his face back and forth into his side. 

Kokichi was, technically, always ‘there’. He never really went away… but Kaito could tell the difference between when Kokichi was merely existing, and when he was actually aware and paying attention to his own inner mechanics. Backing up, Chibi Kaito sang out his little bell sound to Kokichi, excited to show off what he had managed to learn how to do during his alone time this time.

Giving Kokichi a small, ‘watch, wait, watch this’ motion with his small hands, Chibi Kaito put himself into a running position, took a breath… and ran at the pillows propped up next to the head board, leaping onto them and, being bounced off of them, did a backflip!!

...But did not stick the landing. Essentially flopping down onto his stomach and face, bouncing against the mattress, eventually settling entirely on the front side of his body…

He looked up. °˖ ✧◝(○ ヮ ○)◜✧˖ ° Success!!

“Awww, h-hey! Hi!” Kokichi giggled as he reached around to cup Chibi Kaito’s back in a hug. That was one nice thing about ‘existing’ in the same space--Kokichi always got a wonderful welcome when he ‘woke up’. 

He got lovely welcomes when he woke up in the real world too, but it was nice to be able to appreciate them without a weak, tired body. 

Kokichi sat up as Chibi Kaito indicated to him to watch, eyes widening as the doll version of his husband tried to do a backflip. And...it was close. But very, very cute and endearing, especially with his excitement. Laughing, Kokichi gave a round of applause, leaning down to give Chibi Kaito a kiss on his oversized head. “Well done! A bit easier to do in 0G, I’m guessing. But very good for trying it out here!”

Nothing felt ‘off’, so Kokichi didn’t really need to ask, but...he did anyway. “I’m guessing you held down the fort real well while I was awake, huh? It was our Shuu-chan’s birthday today, so it was really important for me to be there. The big version of you was really sweet all day…”

Gently, Kokichi offered his memories of the day to his tiny husband, figuring that Chibi Kaito would enjoy them.

Chibi Kaito… didn’t feel envy. His existence didn’t quite allow for a feeling like that. He was too much actually Kokichi to feel ‘left out’, because in a very real way, he wasn’t. The creature was just as much as part of Kokichi’s ‘collective’ as Kokichi himself was, and so being jealous of Kokichi’s waking life didn’t really make sense to the creature. He was there just as much as Kokichi himself was. 

So, it wasn’t envy, as he watched the memory of the birthday… but there was a certain sense of longing, as he nestled into Kokichi’s lap and watched the memory for a bit. Shuuichi looked handsome and happy… Big Kaito had a good idea there, with the snake, Chibi Kaito could tell. Big Shuuichi’s face lit up reading the letter and realizing what it meant. Awww… 

… Damn. Big Kokichi hadn’t been there to see Shuuichi open up his sexy underwear. Kokichi only heard the story afterwards. Chibi Kaito would have loved to have seen what Big Kaito picked out. Damn.

As for ‘holding down the fort’, Chibi Kaito, once he was done watching the memory, tugged at Kokichi’s arm, excited to show him something. 

Jumping off the bed, he ran to the front door of the bedroom, and tapping against it, the door opened, showing a black void past it… but Kaito excitedly pointed up to the top of the door. While Kokichi had been awake, his lobby defense had started to restructure! The confetti was back!! 

Kokichi cuddled Chibi Kaito as the creature took in the memories, happy to share the events of the day, even if he was technically just sharing them with himself. But while Chibi Kaito certainly wasn’t actually Kaito, and Kokichi wasn’t going to make the mistake of thinking about him like that, he was enough like Kaito that talking and spending time with Chibi Kaito felt like socializing. 

Enough to keep Kokichi from feeling lonely. 

Letting himself be led to the door, Kokichi looked up, laughing slightly. “Yes! Though...man, I really should work on this some more, huh. Especially since I’m starting to remember more… I can be a little more bold in making things that I’d sense while I’m awake, try to make an actual deterrent, more than just my door being locked…”

After a moment, he snorted to himself, giving Chibi Kaito a look. “Think I’d freak myself out too bad if I made an alarm that was a baby crying?”

Kaito paused, giving it a thought… before shaking his little head, crossing his arms into an X. Making the motion for a paper and pen, once granted them, he drew out an alarm making a waah sound on the left, a baby making a waaah sound on the right, and a simple Kokichi stick figure in the center, looking endlessly confused.

He shouldn’t make his alarm for his mind the same sound that was, essentially, Miya’s alarm for him too.  It’d confuse things, in the creatures opinion.

Taking in Chibi Kaito’s drawing, Kokichi nodded after a moment. “That’s true. It’d definitely get me to pay attention, but it’d send me looking after Miya all the time. And I’m already starting to think I’m going a little crazy--I don’t need phantom baby cries to make it worse.”

He took another look at Chibi Kaito’s paper before humming, looking back at his door. “...maybe I could leave a note. Like a ‘Kokichi’s not here right now, please leave your contact information so we can get in touch’. For friends, at least. So far I haven’t had to deal with people with ill intentions trying to get in my head so...I need to figure out what I’d even want to do about them. Hmmm…”

Chibi Kaito, ‘remembering’ where Shuuichi would have put it in the real world, climbed up onto the desk and, rooting around for it, found Shuuichi’s new cloth handkerchief with the embroidery. Tying it around his neck to make a cape, Kaito took the pencil he had written with and waved it with a flourish, leaping off the desk and, only stumbling a little bit, ran to the door with a little battle bell.

Valiantly, he stood at the door, tiny with his cloth cape and a pencil weapon, grinning fiercely and ready to stand guard! All one foot-whatever of him! Bring it on!!

...oh my god…

Kokichi covered his mouth, trying not to laugh in his tiny husband’s face, but...oh no that’s too cute! 

Shaking his head, Kokichi gave Chibi Kaito a pat on his, smiling adoringly down at his husband. “Hun, I appreciate it, but… Maybe one day, alright? You’re still pretty new, and this isn’t what we made you for…”

Plus, he felt a little...weird, having a construct of Kaito be the one to defend his mind. 

“How about this--I can make a shortcut from space to the door, so you can keep an eye on it easily, alright? And you know the people who’re just coming to visit. But if an intruder comes, just be an alarm, okay?”

Kaito openly pouted at the pat, the chibi creature a little annoyed. It wasn’t his fault Alter Ego had made him tiny and adorable!! It was tough being ruggedly handsome and doll sized! Chibi Kaito was still working it out! 

Though, it eagerly nodded its head at the new assignment. It could do that! Chibi Kaito would keep a valiant eye out! No intruder was going to get past his watchful, beady little eyes! 

Chest swelling with pride, Chbi Kaito nodded… before gesturing Kokichi to come down closer! 

Well, that was an alarm sorted, he supposed. Ideally, his door would hold, but...well. He’d think of further methods to either stall or push out any intruders. It seemed much more feasible to conceptualize now than it had way back when he’d first visited Mikado. 

Kokichi was just thinking about making that note on the door when he noticed Chibi Kaito beckon him closer. Little guy probably wanted more kisses… Just as insatiable as Big Kaito, though less sex focused. Or, at least, not sex focused in any way Kokichi could understand. 

Smiling, Kokichi got onto his knees, coming closer to the tiny version of his husband.

(づ￣ ³￣)づ Chyuu~

It took Chibi Kato standing on his tippy-toes to get the kiss, but he managed it! Heck yeah! 

(Being tiny, when it comes to kisses and, well… almost all other forms of affections, was the worst. Big Kaito had no idea what he had! He could just scoop Kokichi up and kiss him whenever!! And other things!! Giant jerk, getting to hog all the ‘Kichi goodness.)

Kokichi grinned, absolutely calling it. And, for Chibi Kaito’s troubles, he gently kissed back, before laying another kiss on the creature’s forehead. Kaito would be so pouty if he knew that another version of him was getting kisses while they were asleep. Maybe one day, after he told his partners, but even then...Kokichi didn’t feel good about going into their minds, and not even just because of the defences. 

Though, the thought of Saint Madison or Griffin watching while he smooched his boys...wasn’t the best. 

Rubbing Chibi Kaito’s cute cheek with his thumb, Kokichi straightened back up. “Okay. Well, I have some projects to work on tonight, it seems, but Alter Ego wanted me to let them know when I went to sleep so… I think I’ve probably left them hanging long enough.”

Closing his eyes, Kokichi sent out a small ping to his mentor, shifting to sit cross-legged in front of his door.

It barely took a moment after Kokichi’s ping, that Alter Ego appeared, stretching their thin, gilden body a bit as they trotted across the bed, laying down at the edge of it and looking at Kokichi and Chibi Kaito with a small, kitty yawn, tail flicking behind them, “Hello, Kokichi. How are we feeling today? I see your defenses are still feeling strong.” Alter Ego noted, looking out Chibi Kaito’s new self constructed ‘outfit’.

Kokichi looked over with a grin, amused that Alter Ego forwent going through the door. Though, he supposed his mentor had been here so often, the need for dramatics was pretty low. “Mentally, I’m pretty good. We celebrated Shuu-chan’s birthday today, and I was able to be awake for almost the whole thing.”

“Physically…” Kokichi sighed, his smile falling. “Not much has changed since yesterday. I can shift a little, but any major movements of my body are still out of reach. I did get to eat a cookie, though, so I think I might be able to move back onto solid foods again soon.”

...it was frustrating. But unlike his mind, there wasn’t much Kokichi could do for his body that he wasn’t already doing. 

“Chibi Kaito and I were talking about my defences, since they’re back. I’m thinking of making, like...a call sheet on my door, for people to leave information if they catch me when I’m awake.”

Alter Ego laughed a little at that, though not unkindly. “Sounds practical. It couldn’t hurt anything, and it might dissuade any empaths with the flare for the dramatic leaving behind a more elaborate message if they found they couldn’t get in. Chihiro, back when he was a new empath and still learning? Was once reached out to by this nobile woman, a Lady Scone, who’s nobility crest had an elephant on it as a symbol of her family? So, you can imagine Chihiro’s shock when he returned to his lobby and found a full sized elephant there, Lady Scone deciding that alone would be enough to clue him in that she was trying to get into contact with him.”

Kokichi snorted, laughing a bit. “Oh my gosh… Yeah, I could probably do without that. I’d rather just check in and see a name and maybe a clue to find them. Lemme just…”

Looking over at his door, Kokichi focused in for a moment, creating the ‘not here’ message he wanted, and a copy of the telephone message ledger down below it, but with applicable edits.

...and he had to focus for another moment. And another, before the paper finally manifested correctly on the door, Kokichi feeling...a little worn out by something he thought would’ve been easy. 

Taking a deep breath, he put a hand to his forehead, rubbing it a bit. “...hard to remember how fucked I really am when I’m in here, sometimes…”

“I’ve been asking around again. There’s shockingly little out there, about how to rehabilitate an empath after a coma period, but I did find this older…” Alter Ego paused, thinking, “... translating the language is sort of tricky. We talked entirely in Intents, but the word she used for her species was Orklah, I believe… but I think you’d recognize the word ‘orc’. They live up in the mountains, over in Orthain. I was pointed in her direction, and she told me she experienced the same thing when a horse kicked her in the head and threw her off the side of a mountain when she was young.”

Leaping off the bed, Alter Ego walked up to Kokichi, sitting as he said, “She said that of all the things that helped when she was recovering, this particular ‘stretch’ made it easier for her to gauge every day what she was capable of, without actually ‘testing’ it and exhausting herself or giving her a migraine. Would you be up to trying it?”

Closing his eyes, Alter Ego passed on what the elder Orc woman had passed on to him….

{You create a comfortable, cool, dark spot in your mind, separate from everything else. And, setting in a meditation pose, slowly but surely, you reach out to feel the outline of the rest of your mind. Spreading your sense of personal awareness as far and as deeply as you can. Not ‘using’ the muscle or space, just making yourself consciously aware of them. Making yourself aware of the state their in, how they feel, how they would feel if you were to try to actually use them… just entirely aware of as much of your own mind as you could reasonably stretch…}

Orklah… Kokichi’s eyes widened a little. After everything he’d seen and learned, it would probably be most helpful to assume that every magical species he’d read about was real. But...still, it was...amazing, learning that Orcs were real. And that Alter Ego had met one that was an empath too. 

Ohh… And had gone through something that would’ve killed many other species. Still, Kokichi winced in sympathy. But...it was an experience that may help him. 

Considering the wisdom Alter Ego passed on, after a moment, Kokichi slowly nodded. “I think I can do that, yeah… It’s been a while since you had me try to feel the...more physical parts of my mind. But gauging the state of everything…”

Kokichi took a deep breath, and...tried to create a separate, comfortable spot in his mind. A place he could start from… 

Around them, Kokichi’s room faded away. And...interestingly enough, the void returned, though this time the little watercolor drops were absent. Just that feeling of peaceful silence. 

Chibi Kaito felt himself start to fade, and darted to Alter Ego, steadying himself by latching onto the cats neck, throwing himself onto the felines back. “Must you?” Alter Ego asked the creature, as Chibi Kaito sighed in relief, the side of himself born from Alter Ego stabilizing and gaining a new sense of ‘solidness’ at the touch. 

Plus! Now he had a cape and a weapon and a horse! A furry, grumbling horse! 

 Alter Ego, in turn, lowered themselves down, trying to make themselves still and calm. Closing this eyes and following Kokichi’s movements.

{Remember.}

{You are not separate from anything around you.}

{...except me.}

{You are not the body you present yourself as when you come here.}

{You do not ‘come’ here.}

{You do not leave.}

{The void is you.}

{The landscape is you.}

{The air is you.}

{You are everything.}

{This is you.}

It was like Alter Ego themself. They weren’t really a cat. But it was easier to conceptualize themself as a cat, and interact with others through that body. Kokichi was the version of himself in his mind, but he was also...everything else there too. The body was like a little idol in a playhouse, something to speak through and for others to focus on. 

But all the memories and landscapes, every version of his friends that he’d pulled...it was all him. 

Kokichi took a breath, his body in the real world deeply breathing in. 

And he tried to...feel.

...mm. So that’s what the healers were worried about. ...he’d pushed himself a little much today, he’d need extra rest to make up for it, and even then he wasn’t going to be able to skip the impending headache. 

...he needed to tell Kaito and Shuuichi. About his sadness and anger. 

...was this spot ever going to heal? The lonely boy who never felt like enough… He should talk to his therapist about it more next time he went. 

This aching spot would be alright. Maki was coming home, and...they’d figure out life from there. 

This one...he refused to go into Tim’s mind and find out himself. But without doing that...there was no way to know how his nephew felt. Maybe he should talk to Kaito, then, about his worries that his nephew resented him. He wasn’t sure what to do if Tim did, but...well. He would have help figuring that out. 

...Kokichi opened his eyes, his room fading back in as he tugged on the back of his hair with a self-deprecating smile. “...I’m glad I’m already in therapy, because damn do I have a lot of emotional issues…”

“Yeah. But to be fair, the fact that you keep a doll version of your husband around to kiss was probably the only real indication you needed that you have a ton of emotional issues.” Alter Ego teased gently, as Chibi Kaito gave an offended bell sound, tugging at the base of his neck and kicking at his sides. ‘Giddy up! Come on, ride! 

“But, honestly, Kokichi, I think being aware of this stuff puts you leagues above most other twenty year olds. You should be proud of yourself… Chibi Kaito, if you don’t stop kicking me, I’m going to eat you-ow! ”

Kaito, having just whacked Alter Ego in the head with his pencil, huffed. (¬､¬) Rude cat… insulting his existence and not playing along with the furry horse bit… rude.

Kokichi sighed a bit, but reached over to pick Chibi Kaito up by the back of his little shirt, bringing him over to sit in his lap again rather than continue to torment Alter Ego. “Give it a rest, okay? I can admit that it’s a little weird to have you here, but I enjoy your company, and you’re someone I know I can trust to help me around my mind.”

Shaking his head a little, Kokichi shrugged. “Maybe. And I am proud of how far I’ve come...but there’s still a lot to do.”

“...and to do it, I need to let myself rest,” he sighed, closing his eyes in knowing defeat. “The emotional stuff is kind of secondary, unless I was doing something big, but...physically, I overdid it today. I’m tired, and my mind is feeling taxed… And…”

...Kokichi frowned a little more, opening his eyes. “It doesn’t seem severe to me, and the healers don’t seem to think so either. But...there is a little damage to...like, my motor functions, I guess. I’m...probably going to need some physical therapy before I’m up and running around without a care again… Though considering how long I’ve been in bed, I’d probably need help getting my body moving again anyway.”

“...I’m probably not going to be able to walk by the time the kids get here.”

“...” Alter Ego sighed, before walking up, putting himself in Kokichi’s lap, rubbing his head under his chin. 

“I’ve never had a physical body. I can’t really understand the frustration you must be feeling.” The cat confessed, while Chibi Kaito, after fixing his shirt with a huff, leaned back into Kokichi’s stomach, resting his head on his chest. “How long do you think it’ll take you to be recovered? Has anything like this ever happened to you before? I mean, to this extent?”

“It can really depend…” Kokichi sighed. “I had an attack at the end of summer last year. I was still a little unsteady for a few days after, but I was back on my feet in a little over a week. It was...one of the kinder ones I’ve ever had.”

“Then...there was one I had when I was fourteen. Kind of...like now, I wasn’t in a good place with my health anyway, and...I was still feeling peaky at times almost six months later...though, I don’t really know if that was because of my attack, or just...general illness.” Kokichi placed a loose, but affectionate hand over Chibi Kaito’s front. “I think this might be more like that… Though for when I can actually get out of bed? Who knows. I think...it might be another three or four weeks, if I really had to put down a guess.”

Chibi Kaito frowned at that… Big Kaito better be making sure Kokichi gets his meals. And his tea and his rest and, just, lots of hugs! And, and… honestly, more food! 

Alter Ego, in turn, just sighed, “Three to four weeks, and that’s just to get out of bed… I know you’re excited and eager to help, Kokichi, but if doing anything empath wise delays that already long timeframe for recovery? It’s not worth it. I can say that as both your friend and your mentor. I want to err on the side of caution, while you’re still in recovery.”

Thinking about it… “For now? I think we should keep on as we’ve been doing. Stay in your mind, keep you mostly rested, and when you’re restless, we do simple, relaxing things to help you keep a grasp of your abilities. I think now is a good time to keep an eye on Kaito and Shuuichi, looking for long term side effects and effectiveness, and...well, honestly? With your baby coming up soon, not to mention all the other little stresses in your waking life? I think slow and steady, for now, when it comes to our empath stuff…”

Kokichi frowned...but he nodded. He had promised both his father and Shuuichi that he wasn’t going to kill himself doing this. Being an empath, or trying to help people. And as much as it didn’t sit right with him to stop when they were really onto something...what good was he to people dead? What good was he to his family if he was so injured and exhausted he could barely stay awake?

How could he face himself if he destroyed himself?

“Alright…” Kokichi relented, but he did give Alter Ego a more serious look. “But I do want to talk with you and Temp sometime about you guys keeping up the experiments. I think it is a good call to keep an eye on my partners, and that still is working...but if we’re farther down that road, and I’m still not in a place where I can help make defences? Especially as people start being freed… It’s not something they’d know about, but I still don’t want to leave them hanging. Not if there’s something we can do.”

“I’m okay with that. Though, you have to keep in mind, Temp’s about to be a single parent for a baby himself pretty soon too. He hasn’t said anything about it, but I’m going to assume he’s also going to need a bunch of breathing room to take care of his waking world stuff. As for me… well, in theory, I can definitely keep practicing actual defenses’s.” Alter Ego mused, tail flicking a little, “But it’d still be smart for me to wait until one or both of you can at least observe me doing it. If something goes wrong, I have a much… looser anchor to the real world to hide away in to recover. If I pass out in another person’s consciousness, I don’t automatically bounce back to Hiro. I can just end up stuck there until I recover. Which I’d rather not have happen.”

A few small, bell sounds from Chibi Kaito. Alter Ego sighed, “I’m sorry, I can’t understand your bell anymore. You’re too much Kokichi now. What are you trying to say?”

Chibi Kaito, taking his pencil, concentrated, pushing it through the air… and little by little, a little glowing word in the air Maki?

“She doesn’t have one of our defenses. She’s just… a dragon. So observing her won’t be helpful.”

Maki help?

Alter Ego frowned, “...she’s not an Empath, and Temp thinks she’s dangerous for us to interact with. Frankly, I agree with him. I’m not sure how she’d be able to help anyway.”

That was true, and while it wasn’t very fair, Kokichi had just kind of...put Temp and Bonus in a space in his head that said they’d have an easier time of things than he and his boys were going to have with Miya. With Temp always knowing that his kid was a Flora, and not also taking care of a partner that had just had surgery… But even if he ended up having an ‘easier’ time by any margin...babies were time and focus-consuming. Temp had experience in a lot of things, but it wasn’t fair to expect more from him when he was about to have a child too. 

And there was no way Kokichi wanted any of them to try and make defences on their own. He trusted Temp and Alter Ego to respect the minds they were in but...like Alter Ego said. If something went wrong? It was important to have another Empath there to watch your back. 

So...they might really have to put everything but observation on hold…

Kokichi sighed softly, but soon narrowed his eyes at the glowing letters in the air, trying to understand what Chibi Kaito was asking. “...Temp said that dragons could be dangers to consciousnesses. I mean…” Kokichi smirked a little. “If what we needed was to just get rid of the manifestation of conditioning? I think Maki-chan would do it with glee. But helping the person through their own impulses is...something I don’t know if she has the capability to do.”

Offering a smile to Chibi Kaito, Kokichi bent down to place a kiss on his forehead. “Also? Maki-chan’s getting her memories back slowly. By the time she remembers her dragon-ing days, I might already be back in action. But...you’re right that we have other people we can ask. And if there’s anything that we’d need Maki-chan for, I don’t think she’d be opposed to helping someone get rid of their conditioning.”

“...for what it’s worth now, Kai-chan and Shuu-chan seem okay. Though considering they’ve been worried over me, I don’t know how good of an indication that is. But...Shuu-chan’s been open with me, and Kai-chan hasn’t spent a whole day in his shrine so...I think that’s good.”

Chibi Kaito thought about writing the word Protection? But… as much faith as the manifestation of Kaito made tiny had in Maki, maybe asking his friend to use her new dragon...equeness to play as ‘escort’ to his husband was maybe overkill in his protective tendencies.  He knew Kokichi would be safer with her there, but… he probably didn’t actually need ‘dragon’ level protection, so long as the three empaths kept what they were doing secret.

(Besides.)

(Chibi Kaito was a little worried about Maki.)

(She might need...a few less responsibilities on her shoulder for awhile, after everything that had just happened.)

“Well, that is why you all are going to therapy, right? If Kaito were to end up in the shrine, I imagine that’d be a bad sign.” Alter Ego observed, “Though, based on the stories you tell me? I have noticed that the bigger the issue, the better you all seem to cope with it… maybe you just put more effort into it, when the consequences for failing are bigger?”

Chibi Kaito rolled his eyes. Alter Ego: armchair psychiatrist.

Kokichi sighed, sitting back a little, though he made sure to keep Chibi Kaito steady. “That’s pretty much it, though I’m not sure if we recognize it as effort. But...I don’t know if saying we cope is all that true. In the immediate, sure. If it’s a matter of life and death, we think fast, put things on the wayside to deal with what’s happening.”

“...but we put things on the wayside, and all that stress just comes back to us when things are calmer and...historically, none of us have been very good with processing through it. Whether through Shuu-chan bottling something, Kai-chan trying to physically hide from it, or me just...melting down.”

“But that’s why we’re in therapy, together and apart. So we can process things in a better way, understand ourselves a little more, and...maybe when the big things happen and we have to push other things to the side? It won’t be as much to push, and we’ll know what to do with it when things calm.”

Kokichi ran a hand through his hair, looking a bit tired, but at peace. “...I can only speak for myself, but...it’s hard. It takes a lot of work. But we’re young and early on so...that’s okay. It’s something we’ve all decided is worth pursuing, and as long as we don’t give up? We’ll deal when we stumble.”

“...it does make it hard to tell if the defences are influencing things, though. Kai-chan being able to be blunt about things is a good indicator, but...it’s pretty much the only one I’ve seen.”

“It can’t help that your waking self is already so used to censoring himself to not trigger their conditioning.” Alter Ego said, looking up at him curiously, fairly certain he was right about that. “And, considering conditioning seems to make its bread and butter acting as a sort of ‘thought guard’ for the people it’s affecting? Not being an actual mind reader likely makes it more difficult for you to see the effects, so more likely than not, it’s changing their thought process more than anything.”

“Personally, I’m extremely curious about Griffin, specifically… our defenses are meant to be adaptional. That’s how they’re meant to deal with the complexity of the conditioning that’s put in and reinforced for years… but Griffin’s job should be both complex and simple. Gatekeep Shuuichi’s information so that only he has access to it, and keep the man in the shadows from punishing him for it. Fighting the man should be simple enough, but gatekeeping the information… we put them in charge of a serious part of Shuuichi’s consciousness. It’s important we keep an eye out that they're doing their job as intended, and doesn’t reason out some difficulties for him… has he had any ‘info dumps’ since we’ve done it?”

Kokichi nodded a bit sadly. It was no problem for him to not asking things in a demanding way of his boyfriend, but Kaito… There were two moments, in his head, that served as the base examples of him triggering Kaito’s conditioning. And both of them had been Kokichi pleading with his husband not to kill someone. There were smaller things, and Kaito’s views about marriage hierarchy probably didn’t help, and...little by little they were getting through them. Honestly, Kaito getting mad at him for that horrible weapons training conversation was probably a good indication that his conditioning was leaving him alone. But...for the most part, Kokichi really tried to be careful not to demand things of his husband. 

At least, in a non-joking way. But that had never seemed to trigger his conditioning anyway. 

Thinking back, Kokichi hummed for a moment. “...you know? There were a few times Shuu-chan talked at length about a subject...but it didn’t seem compulsive. I’ve seen when someone triggers an info dump, and unfortunately, that person was me a few times, but...it didn’t seem like that at all. Just...Shuu-chan wanting to explain what he knew about a subject. Which...might’ve been a result from having conditioning, but...it does just seem like Shuu-chan.”

“It really never occured to me when we started this that working out if we’ve succeeded was going to be the tricky part…” Alter Ego laughed a little, shaking their head. “Obviously I’m biased, but I really do think visiting them and triggering their conditioning to see what happens is the surest way to test how it’s working out. But, I personally can’t observe anyone in the waking world, so…” the cat shrugged, “Like I said. Biased.”

“Well, we already tested it with Kai-chan,” Kokichi sighed, subconsciously protectively crossing his arms over Chibi Kaito. “We know Saint Madison makes quick work of the ribbons. I think for him, the rest is just...seeing how he works things out without conditioning giving him dead ends all the time. ‘Course, gotta be on the look out for long-term effects...but that’s solely observation.”

Kokichi frowned a bit. “...I really don’t want to trigger Shuu-chan’s conditioning in his mind again… But...later, if we really can’t tell if anything’s happening… Maybe. We could check in with Griffin first. They know what they’re looking for, after all, so they’d be able to tell us how things have been.”

(*˘︶˘*).｡.:*♡

( ｡_｡)

(ᇂ_ᇂ|||)

Chibi Kaito adored Big Kokichi holding onto him, but… he kind of agreed with Kokichi. He’d rather they didn’t stress out Shuuichi… though Big Kaito? That dude was fair game. Go nuts on him, as far as Chibi Kaito was concerned. 

But, Big Shuuichi? Yeah. Be gentle on his guy, he was stressing out for two right now! 

“It can wait, either way. Honestly, I’d rather wait to do anything with Shuuichi until after he’s had your daughter, and recovered a bit. Putting him through more stressors than he’s already on by this point feels needlessly reckless, now that his conditioning is potentially under control.”

Alter Ego looked around the room… before asking gently, “You can’t stay up all night. How are you feeling?”

Kokichi smiled a bit. That was something he could agree to. The last thing Shuuichi needed right now was to get stressed out--Miya’s due date was so soon! Then...they’d get to meet their precious little daughter, and Shuuichi could finally get some good rest without her kicking him all the time and, yanno, with the weight of an entire baby pressing on him. In some ways, Miya’s birth would be them letting go of a breath they’d been holding for a while. 

...things were...steady. If not okay, they were steady. His partners were okay, and the state of the world could wait until he recovered. It would be alright. 

Sighing, Kokichi looked over at his bed. “...tired. I’m already going to be sleeping a lot tomorrow, I can tell. I should probably get some real rest so I don’t just sleep through the whole day…”

“I’ll definitely keep doing that ‘stretch’ you told me about, though,” Kokichi promised as he got up, already going to miss the easy way his limbs moved. He held Chibi Kaito in his arms, giving him a lift over to the bed. “And I’m glad you came over tonight. You sticking with me through this...it means a lot to me. Even just chatting for a little is huge, yanno?”’

“Honestly? It’s been a pleasure.” The cat confessed, following them over to the bed, watching with some amusement as Kaito leapt out of Kokichi’s arms and bounced onto the mattress, trying and failing to get the momentum he needed for a backflip. “I haven't had too many opportunities in my life yet to just… be with a person. It’s calming… with that said, before we send you off to sleep. Would you like to watch a memory? Something soothing and cute… Chibi Kaito? Any recommendations?”

Chibi Kaito seemed to consider it, before heading to the pillows, looking beneath them, disappearing for a moment… and when he returned, he came back with a small, toy tea cup. Offering it to Kokichi, a childhood memory of playtime with his stuffed animals hidden away inside.

Kokichi grinned, watching Chibi Kaito try to perform his new trick. Probably by the next time he ‘woke up’, his tiny husband would be able to pull it off no problem. He climbed into bed, getting comfortable under the covers; he thought he’d get sick of it, considering that’s all his reality was at the moment, but...there was still something comforting about getting into bed before going to sleep. 

Chuckling lightly at the memory Chibi Kaito chose, Kokichi settled against the pillows before lifting the cup, letting it spill out a screen of a mundane, but sweet memory for the three of them to enjoy before Kokichi let himself fall back into darkness. 

And, maybe, a few of his old toys manifested on the bed as well, lying comfortably against his body. 

-

Kaito was currently wearing an overly fuzzy forehead sweat band, a maroon muscle shirt that he had (extremely carefully, to get that perfect stylish edge) ‘ripped’ the sleeves off of, and shorts. Fitness coach mode! Activate! 

Clapping his hands together, Kaito said enthusiastically, “Alright! Exercise time! You ready to put those muscles to the test, babe!?”

Kaito was, maybe a bit overly so, trying to keep the air light for something that he was, personally, a little nervous about. The healers had, this morning after another examination, told them that Kokichi needed to seriously start working on physical therapy, if he wanted his full mobility back (at all) sooner. Then they had taken Kaito aside and told him that he could help, if he wanted to, with Kokichi’s therapy, though if he didn’t feel up to it, they’d hire a professional physical therapist to do it instead.

If he could help it, Kaito would rather not add even more new healers into Kokichi’s routine, especially considering everything. So! He was going to do his best! To help Kokichi do his best! 

Shuuichi, in turn, had wished them both good luck, gave Kokichi a kiss and told him he was looking forward to returning to see Kokichi all buff and ripped, kissed Kaito and told him sternly to not push too hard, and had gone to hide in his study.

Kokichi was lying in bed, looking up at Kaito fondly and with a certain kind of determination. He could slide himself around their bed alright now, and he could sit up all by himself sometimes, but...full mobility, even gently, was out of his reach. That’s what this whole thing was about, helping him use his muscles so he could gain back the strength to move. 

He’d had a filling breakfast--though not too filling--and Kaito had washed and helped him change into a fresh pair of pajamas, a loose tee shirt and shorts, and...he was about as ready as he’d ever be. 

Giving his husband a double thumbs up and a grin, Kokichi started shifting, assuming that he’d need to be sitting up. “Absolutely! Work me until I’m jelly, coach! What’s first on our docket? If it’s wiggling my fingers and toes, I have that down pat.”

Kaito grinned, giving his husband a thumbs up, before thumbing through the, honestly, shockingly thin picture book that Seiko had given him to reference. Okay, okay… she had said that if Kokichi couldn’t physically move himself, Kaito moving him would actually still have benefits for his muscles. So! 

Though, “Hey babe, let’s not have you shift up just yet. In fact, it’s looking like you should be laying fully flat on your back, for most of this.” Kaito observed, having already moved the comforter off the bed, giving Kokichi a once over as he said, “Let me take the pillows and put them aside. Do you think you can shift down a bit?”

Kokichi paused, feeling his core tremble a little already from being held in a strained position, but he nodded, slowly starting to reverse his trajectory. He knew this was going to be difficult. He wasn’t always going to be able to bounce back from his bouts of illness, let alone his attacks. But he had promised eighty, so he needed to put the work in. 

Sliding down the mattress, Kokichi adjusted himself to be laying flat on his back, limbs not starfishing, but away from each other and his body, ready for whatever his routine was going to be. And, thankfully, he was short enough that his feet still weren’t even close to the bottom of the bed even with his head being clear of the pillows. 

...he’d be okay. These stretches were approved by a board of healers, specifically meant for therapy. Nothing about this was new or foreign. 

“Hell yeah! Look at you go. Crabbing along, backwards! That’s tricky by itself, really.” Kaito praised idly, taking the pillows and tossing them to the other side of the bed, giving Kokichi plenty of room now. 

Okay… okay…

“Let’s start with legs and feel it out from there.” Kaito decided, looking through the picture book and reading through the descriptions, “It’s alright if we don’t get through all of these, ‘Kichi. We’re just starting after all! Let’s see where we’re at! Now… do you want to try to lift your leg yourself? This motion?” Kaito asked, showing Kokichi the page he was looking at, the drawn figure lifting their knee to their chest, kicking out into the air, “It’s fine if you can’t do it yourself. If I move your legs for you, your muscles will still tear and stretch from the movement! Still getting improvement from it!”

“It’s more like...wiggle-slithering,” Kokichi mused. He wasn’t exactly lifting himself up, but...it was better than where he’d been even a few days ago so he’d accept the progress. Hopefully soon he’d really be crabbing. 

He was almost disappointed they were going with legs first, but...Kokichi knew that wasn’t the right way to think about it. His legs needed the most work, so it was best to try to work on them first while he had the energy. There was no point in...trying to show off for Kaito--the best thing he could do to make his husband proud would be to heal. 

Taking a deep breath, Kokichi tried to lift his thighs up to his chest, deciding to just take the exercise one part at a time. 

...and…

“...nnnph!” Kokichi grunted, trying to cheat a little and use his arms as leverage too against the bed. But, still, his knees just bent a little, not coming close to his chest. 

“Strong start, ‘Kichi.” Kaito praised, giving Kokichi a minute to try before stepping in, taking advantage of the small bend in his knee to tuck his thumb under Kokichi’s knee, rest of his hand around his thigh, and his other hand grasping onto Kokichi’s ankle. 

Grinning down at him, he said, “Really strong start. Like I said, we’re literally only just getting started, so any lift at all is awesome, babe! Alright… so let’s start with a rep of ten, and see how we feel. Be vocal, babe. Let me know if anything hurts or you need me to stop. I’m gonna bring your leg to your chest, point it out into the sky, and back into your chest ten times. Then we’ll do the other one. Slow and steady…”

Moving slowly and gently, Kaito moved Kokichi’s leg into his chest, watching his face carefully. Does he look troubled? Does he look in pain…

Kokichi tried to give Kaito a smile, but it was clear he was disappointed. Even if he knew Kaito wasn’t wrong. Taking a breath, Kokichi tried to let Kaito take the majority of the work, just trying to follow his movements without straining himself. As they kept doing this, he could put more effort into it, but just getting used to the movement first and, like Kaito said, just allowing his muscles to stretch without him putting the power behind them and tiring himself out was...day one. 

In some ways, Kokichi was given an advantage from having been working out with Kaito, Shuuichi, and the kids these past months--before he stopped going more days than not, anyway. Being able to breathe well was important for exercising! So as Kaito gently started him on his reps, Kokichi kept up a rhythm of deep breaths, following the movements with his inhale and exhale. 

Kokichi face was focused, a little strained but just from the fact he was doing something difficult. Still, he tried to talk around his breaths. “...m okay. Startin’ to...burn a little… But it’s like when we’d do laps...s’okay.”

“That’s right. My ‘Kichi’s strong…” Kaito grinned, though a part of him was alarmed that Kokichi was already breathing heavily. That was alright. That was alright. It was the first day and Kokichi had been basically immobile for literally weeks now. Kokichi would be okay.

“Looking forward to watching you run laps again someday.” Kaito said idly, counting the reps in his head, pulling Kokichi’s leg out to the ceiling, feeling the thin leg start to shake in his hands, “You’re so quick, ‘Kichi. It’s one of your super powers. My quick-footed Koh, bolting off… annnd ten. Good job!” 

Kaito kissed against Kokich’s trembling ankle, before gently laying his leg down. “Next one. Are you good? Do you need a breath?”

...he hoped he’d be quick again one day. It didn’t really matter in his life, but...it was fun to zip around and run circles around his partners, playfully calling them slowpokes. It had...made him really proud that he could keep up with Maki when it came to short bursts of speed. 

He probably shouldn’t expect to be as fast as he was, but...he could get to a place where he could run again. And skip and prance and everything else. 

Kokichi let out a slow breath, just barely not a sigh from his sheer determination to keep up a steady breathing pattern, as Kaito lowered his leg back down to the bed. He wasn’t red-faced and sweating or anything, but...he could feel a strain in his leg now, could feel it trembling. 

...good. That meant he’d gotten a workout. 

“...just one sec, then we can move onto my other leg,” Kokichi decided after a moment, catching his breath. 

Kaito nodded, putting his chin in his hand, giving Kokichi an openly admiring look. “...You’re really impressive, ya know that? I’d be such a whiner, in your position. Maki would call me pathetic. I can hear it so clearly in my head. ‘Stop being pathetic, Kaito, it’s annoying’... I’d want little kisses for every bit of progress. Still gonna want kisses for every bit of progress, but that’s entirely me indulging myself.” Kaito winked.

Taking his other leg, he said, “Alright. Next one! You’ve got this babe. Ten lifts, then on to the next rep!”

“That’s...absolutely what you’d do,” Kokichi laughed, so easily able to imagine Kaito needling for kisses every step of the way. And, of course, he’d indulge Kaito. Anything that made therapy easier? For sure, he’d be all about it. Until Kaito started trying to vie for a little more, but even then…

...soon they’d be able to hear Maki in person. Shutting them down for all sorts of trivial complaints…

Kokichi smiled a bit and he took a breath, giving Kaito another determined look, his drive not having waned, but certainly restoked. “Let’s do this! I’m good to go!”

As Kaito gently moved Kokichi’s other leg towards his chest, having it kick out towards the ceiling, he tried to think of something they could talk about that would get his husbands mind off the exercise. 

“...So, you think Miya’s gonna be a dog person, or a cat person?” Kaito asked, enjoying feeling the small tension in his husbands muscles. There we go… strong husband… “I think, knowing our luck, she’s gonna be a cat person. If she was a dog person, we’d already be set, no new animals needed. But you watch. She’d gonna be begging us for a cat someday. Where on earth will we keep a cat…”

In, and out...a steady, strong rhythm, make sure you have plenty of oxygen to feed your working muscles… Don’t let yourself get out of breath…

Kokichi grinned slightly, keeping his gaze on the ceiling. “I think she’ll love Chase regardless. She’s excitable, but Tim’s done such a good job training her that she knows how...how to be gentle. Like...with the balloons at Shuu-chan’s party. Chase was playing with them a ton, but...she didn’t pop any. A dog like that can make anyone...fall in love with her, and I doubt Miya’s gonna be an exception…”

“...do like cats though…”

Cats were good friends. Could be just as cuddly or playful as dogs, but just expressed themselves in different ways. 

“If...if she wants a cat, then...we should wait until she’s old enough to take...responsibility for it. Like...not just it being her cat in name, but her really able to look after it.” Kokichi managed a small laugh as he pushed his leg. “No whining about the litter box, or if it throws up...though I’d be willing to help out.”

“Dunno ‘bout where to keep it, though… Cats like to roam, but we can’t let it have the whole castle as...as its territory. Couldn’t keep it from goin’ outside, and...we try to have spaces that are friendly to people with allergies… Maybe we could lead train a cat…”

“You want to put a cat on a lead? Oh man…” Kaito snickered, “This cat’s gonna hate us. Ah well, maybe if we start young enough it won’t know any better. We’ll have to… hmm…”

Kaito paused, doing Kokichi’s exercise with him, mentally counting in his head nine… ten… “Annnnd, rest.” Kissing Kokichi’s other ankle, he said, “Good job, babe… take a breath, we’ll start work on the second set in a minute… I was going to say that if we’re trying to teach her pet responsibility, we can’t let her ask the staff to do it for her. But that’s not really her place here, in the castle. I think I’ll have a harder time remembering that then she will.”

“Did you ever have a pet, Kokichi? I wanna say you haven't, but I can’t remember if we’ve had this conversation before or you just inferred that once.”

Kokichi giggled. “It definitely depends on the cat, sure, but I’ve met a few cats that seemed totally fine on a lead. If you’re going to bring your cat out and about and you don’t have...like, one of those cool cat backpacks, then a lead’s the way to go. The ones I’ve seen mostly just chill on their owners’ shoulders… Kinda the same with people who bring out their pet birds or lizards…”

Letting out a breath as Kaito laid his leg down, Kokichi was...kind of proud that he’d gotten through a rep. And he still had the energy for another, even if his legs were already starting to get kind of sore. 

He gave Kaito a sort of confused look for a moment, though. “I mean...that’s still a good thing to keep in mind. It’s fine to ask someone where cleaning supplies are, or how to do a certain thing, but she really should do it herself at the end of it. And asking someone to pet sit is a different matter entirely… But it’d still be good to teach her that...while she might see Hajime-chan mopping the halls, that doesn’t mean she can just leave a pile of cat vomit and assume it’ll be taken care of… It’s still a point to consider…”

Taking a deeper breath, preparing himself, Kokichi shook his head a little. “I haven’t no. When I was little, it never seemed fair to take responsibility for a creature I wouldn’t be able to care for more than just some of the time...and when I got older, I was just...too busy to think about getting a pet. Even with fish, you have to feed them daily and clean their tank...and some fish even like to play, and I’d feel bad not being able to be there for them…”

Kaito grinned, waiting for Kokichi to collect himself, giving him a somewhat sympathetic look as he said, “Aw… my poor ‘Kichi. Well, we’ll make up for it, apparently. A human child is maybe a strong start for the first thing you’ve ever had to take care of, but whoever said you had to learn to crawl before you start to run? Alright! Rep two!”

Taking the original leg, Kaito started to push Kokichi’s leg back up into his chest, as he said, “I, technically, have had three pets growing up. I technically had a horse, and I technically had a messenger hawk. I say technically, because I didn’t take care of either of them. The horse I considered ‘mine’ was this lovely dark red-furred Cydasal horse with these beautiful big brown eyes. Strong horse, good temperament, but she got sick. Didn’t know she was sick until I came down to the stables one day and was introduced to my ‘new’ horse. The new horse was also nice, beautiful, good temperament, but after that I sort of stopped thinking of the horses as ‘mine’, since I had to go out of my way to find out my first horse had died. Can’t really consider them ‘yours’ if you’re that out of the loop, ya know?”

“And the hawk…” Kaito shuddered, “Theadore. What an asshole that thing was. Scared the shit out of me as a kid. My… parents? Someone, anyway, decided that taking care of Theadore was gonna be how I learned discipline with animals? I shook like a damn leaf every time that asshole was on my arm, waiting for a peck or a scratch or a screech. He could smell my fear. He’s still alive and well too. I was more than glad to leave him behind.”

...well, technically Kokichi had the whole country to take care of, but personally taking care of someone was different. He had the will to be the best he could for Miya, but...Kokichi knew that it’d be a trial by fire. He would likely struggle, both with her physical needs, and with her...social and emotional ones, he supposed. He enjoyed talking with kids, but before Tim, it had always been in brief, impersonal bursts. Kokichi knew that his distance with his nephew wasn’t all just because of ‘kid stuff’ but...he wanted to be better. Both for Tim’s current sake, and for Miya’s future one. 

Kokichi quietly listened to Kaito talk about his pets, just keeping his breathing pattern up, though...he frowned slightly, hearing about Kaito’s horse. Things like that happened, but it was still sad...especially since Kaito didn’t even know at first. And having a messenger hawk… 

He knew where the aviary in town was, knew that a lot of the birds had been used in the war, to deliver quick news to and from the frontlines, but Kokichi had never really had a reason to go. There was a certain sort of admiration he had for the birds, though, and Kokichi let out a soft, ‘Whoa…” as Kaito explained about Theadore, even with how temperamental the bird seemed. 

“...that’s… You said three? Was the...horse after the Cydasal the third?”

“...eight… nine… ten! Halfway done with your second rep, Kokichi! You’re doing great!” Kaito cheered, a moment of genuine elation as, kissing Kokichi’s knee, he put his leg down, looking over his husband. A little red in the face, a bit of sweat, but he seemed focused and clear headed… hell yeah! Kaito was so proud! “We’ll move on in one second. But you’re doing great!”

“And, nah. I had a fish for a little while as a kid... “ Kaito grinned, something a little sheepish in his grin, as he said, “Betty. I named him Betty. I couldn’t help it. The name got into my head, I started laughing, fell in love with Little Betty, my Betta fish. He was beautiful, ‘Kichi. This amazing contrast of blue and red, a halfmoon Betta fish. He looked painted. And he was intelligent, I’m convinced of it! Maybe I was projecting, but I felt like he could recognize me, and he’d get excited when I came near, swimming around a bit more, coming closer to the glass… I don’t know, I was young when I had him, really could have just been all in my head. But Betty was my only ‘real’ pet because I took care of him all by myself, and I did a damn good job of it! I got him when he was a month old, and I had him for six months. I picked out and decorated his aquarium, kept him fed, kept him clean. I was super proud of him!”

“...He was a gift from the Head Secretary. Sort of.” Kaito shrugged sadly, taking the other leg, “It’s a story with kind of a bummer ending. Byakuya got one too. His was also beautiful, I have to admit. All white, with these really long, sharp edges… grew up big.  Lived for a little over four years. He named his Aphrael, eventually. Genuinely a beautiful fish.”

The conversation was really helping--Kokichi barely noticed that they’d gone through the entire set on that leg. Nice. He wasn’t sure how many reps they were doing, but at this rate he might still have energy for another exercise. 

He smiled a bit as Kaito talked about his fish, fond that Kaito would name his Betta fish Betty. “Fish are smarter than I think people give them credit for… Not like they can problem solve but...animals have emotions. And just because their intelligence isn’t like ours doesn’t mean that their lives aren’t full. I can only take your word for it, but...I think Betty did recognize you, and was happy you were there.”

...if Tengan was involved, Kokichi could figure it wasn’t a happy story, but...he was glad that Kaito had those six months of pride and affection for a life. 

Sucking in a breath, carefully letting it out, Kokichi let out a short hum, more just trying to get the sound out despite it not really working with his form. “I’ll admit I’m a little more fond of colorful fish...but I can imagine that your brother’s was pretty too. Do you think...when you set up your aquarium, you’ll wanna get another Betta?”

“Nah. I think I’d want to get a lot of pretty little ones, like how Dr. Mariah has. Betta fish you can’t put with other fish. Their other name is ‘fighting fish’. Viscous little things, when you put them with other fish. Still… absolutely beautiful. Alright… how are we feeling?” Kaito asked, taking Kokichi’s other leg and moving it up to his chest… out to the ceiling… up to his chest. “I was planning to do three reps for each exercise, but if you don’t think you can hold out, we can move onto some arm stuff. What do you think? It’s okay to be honest.”

“That would be nice… I kind of wish I could just watch her aquarium for a while, but...but it’s good to stay focused on whatever we’re...talking about. Maybe I’ll come...bother you in your shrine more, so I can wa...watch your fish…”

A deeper breath, starting on the next set. 

“...I think I can do one more rep...especially if we’re done with legs after it…” Kokichi closed his eyes for a moment, his cheeks a little flushed from the exercise, but not in a bad way. “...It’s a little embarrassing to be so...worn out from this...but I’m happy I can do it. Thanks for helping me, sweets.”

“Don’t be embarrassed. I’m super proud of you. I’ve never had to start exercising from literally 0, before. This looks hard. Like I said, I’d be a mess in your place,” Kaito confessed, going to the original leg as he said, “Alright! Last rep. Ten for this leg, ten for the other! You got this!”

“...oh god, if Miya’s a ‘bird’ chick, we’re gonna have to steer her away from that, babe. Birds are the worst. They’re so mean! And dirty. And they live forever. We can’t let her do that to herself. If she asks for a bird, we gotta get her, like, a bird stuffed animal or something.”

Kokichi smiled lightly and prepared for the rep. With Kaito’s encouragement, it wasn’t so bad…

Snorting, Kokichi raised an eyebrow at his husband. “They are high maintenance...not really a beginner pet. But I think you might be projecting a little… There’s...someone in town, that has a pet raven… It let me pet it...and apparently, it brings little gifts to its owner all the time...like misplaced coins and...other shiny things… It seemed pretty affectionate…”

“Hopefully...Miya’s enriched enough with...her brother and dads and uncles and aunts and people coming and going in the castle...and Chase, Shuu-chan’s snake, and your fish, of course… But if she wants a friend responsibility...then we can talk about it… Not a bird, though,” he agreed. “Something easier for a beginner…”

“I’m telling ya, Theadore would hear my daughter had a bird through the bird rumor mill, show up, and corrupt it. Just cause he’s an asshole like that. Malicious bird…”

As they got through more exercise, Kaito asked, “So, babe? Not taking into account our bouncing baby girl… anything coming up that you’re looking forward to?”

Kokichi let out a huff of a laugh, but quickly regained his breathing pattern, really trying to get through the last stretch here. Not really that Theadore would come all the way to Dicea, but birds did have their own communication networks. It was plausible that other birds would have a concept of Miya’s being hers. 

“Aunh… Well…” he breathed. “All the kids coming in a couple days, for sure… Then Hanami’s just the week after. D...Devoted’s day is at the end of the month, but...we’re so busy I dunno that we’d do anything… Never really celebrated it...before so I’m not that...attached to it…”

And, not really thinking that his husband would have much to say, other than maybe about the kids, Kokichi innocently asked, “You?”

“Haaaaaa, yeah. The kids showing up is going to be… something! I’m a little nervous about it, personally. I’m not really sure what to expect with that. I’ve known a lot of these kids honestly… most of their lives? But that was always through Maki. I don’t know how they’re going to react to me, in this environment… it’ll be a thing! We will figure it out as we go!”

“Whaaaat issss…” nine, ten! Kiss against the knee, leg down. Let him breathe for a moment. “Hanami and Devoted day?”

It was...going to be daunting. The plan was that the caravans the kids were travelling in would stop at the castle and they, and the guardians they’d been travelling with--minus Maki, though Maki had only seen the exchange, really--would come into the entrance hall. They had put out notices, asking people to steer clear when the kids arrived, leave business for a bit--hopefully people would respect that. Then he, Aiichi, Kaito, Tim, and Shuuichi would be there to greet the kids and, after the initial, ‘you’re here!’, lead them to one of the large meeting rooms, which would be set up for a party, food and games and places just to rest from a long journey. That particular room also had an exit into the east garden, so if any of the kids wanted to play outside, they could. 

The kids would have the option of meeting some of the foster families that evening, or waiting until the next day, and any who didn’t feel comfortable going with one of the families would have a room in the castle for the night. A lot of the options were just...everyone playing by ear, trying not to freak the kids out. They could do things as slowly as the kids wanted. 

It was certainly going to be a thing. 

Breathing, Kokichi gave Kaito a slightly surprised look, though...well, he’d had to re-explain holidays before. “Hanami is...our spring festival. Though...a lot of it is more focused on...spending time in smaller groups, rather than going through big events, like for Harvest. The big thing for it is...going to the park and watching all the flowering plants… Though there are performances and banquet tables too… It was the holiday I was...talking about in my first lie to you…”

“And Devoted’s day is...a lovers’ holiday. I know a lot of people plan fancy dates for it, but since...places tend to get crowded because of that, some people just plan to have a nice night in. Traditionally, you’d get your partner, or a crush, though I think that’s more of a school thing...some special chocolates, usually in a fancy box...or just with nice decoration.” Kokichi shrugged a bit against their bed. “I’ve never really celebrated it myself, though, so…”

Kaito kept the frown off his face, but internally sighed. It’d be challenging to get Kokichi out and enjoying a festival right now… Kaito was willing to try, of course. And if it was mostly plant watching and performances, maybe it’d be fine to put him in a wheelchair, a warm blanket on his leg, just take it slow and easy… though, even sitting in a wheelchair might be challenging right now. Maybe Kaito could find a wheelchair that leaned back a little, so Kokichi didn’t have to sit up the whole time…

They’d work something out. There’d be more festivals. It was okay.

“Ah, right… the little lost girl you spotted in the crowd, and took care of while you sought out her parents… that’s such a nice story.” Kaito grinned, recalling it fondly. “... You’re such a strange young man. You told me immediately that story was a lie, and then waited for me to get upset with you. Why did you do that?”

As for Devoted day… “We have something a little like that back at home, but it’s in fall. Nothing to do with chocolates, but you’re meant to give your loved one a gift. Miltha day. Named after Saint Miltha, though my mentor told me Miltha actually wasn’t one of Atua’s saints, that we adopted the holiday and the saint after expanding over all of Luminary. It’s really more of a holiday to flex on all the other couples more than anything.” Kaito admitted with a small laugh, “Show off how well you’re doing by showering your spouse in a really nice gift… Devoted day, huh…”

Eight… nine… ten! “I’ll have to get you or someone else to explain more about ‘Devoted’ day to me. I wanna confess that I have a crush on someone~…” Kaito winked at Kokichi, kissing his ankle, before saying, “You finished, by the way! You did thirty in total! You literally kicked ass, Kokichi! Fuck yeah!”

Kokichi matched his husband’s smile, thinking back fondly to their afternoon in Sakura’s pub. “It’s more fun to see people’s reactions...when you tell them immediately they’ve been lied to. Fun, but people have always been upset with me so...that’s what I was expecting. Honestly...I was kind of waiting that entire day for you to get fed up with me and...tell me to fuck off. But you just seemed...genuinely interested in what I was saying, lie or not. It made me interested like nothing else!”

Grunting to show he was understanding what Kaito was saying, Luminary’s version of a lovers’ holiday was...honestly super in line with what he’d come to expect from social holidays. And while the flex wasn’t so pervasive in Dicea… “Uun. I think some people do gift-giving for Devoted’s day too…”

Kokichi let out a deep breath once Kaito brought his leg down, honestly feeling like he’d had a huge workout. And...for being almost entirely immobile in bed for almost three weeks, it was. That he could successfully complete an exercise… Kokichi grinned up at his husband as he breathed, pink and sweaty. “I dunno about literally… You’d have to be sitting above me for that.”

“Oh, trust me, I wish I was.” Kaito sighed, closing his eyes and placing a hand above his heart, “Seeing my Kokichi all strong and determined is sexy. But! I can’t get lost in my daydreams, we still got arm exercises to do!”

Taking a look at the picture book, Kaito picked one, before showing it to Kokichi, “It’s basically just moving your arm like a bird, flapping it above your head, then back down. 90 degree angle. What do you think, babe? Do you want to take a minute? Do it later? It’s up to you, tell me where you’re at, energy and head space wise.”

That was another bummer about being on bed rest. Kokichi wasn’t exactly getting hot and bothered in the first place, but...it still kind of sucked, not being able to have sex. Hopefully they could do something fun when he was doing better. 

Taking in the diagram, Kokichi took a breath, taking stock of his body. Reaching out into himself… “I think...I’m good to do it in just a sec. I want to finish a workout...but I’m not trying to push myself. My legs are exhausted, but in general I’m okay, and I feel like I have enough strength in my arms to do this next exercise…”

“...mm. After we’re done, do you think you could get me some juice?”

“Are you kidding? Juice, soup, whatever you want. I’ll even get you a pastry, if you think you’re up to it… though we should probably give you your tea before anything.” Kaito cautioned. They had already given Kokichi some tea, when he woke up earlier, but… after all of this? Another dose probably wouldn’t hurt.

Taking a moment, Kaito grabbed a clean hand towel and, sitting next to Kokichi, Kaito grinned down at him, dabbing gently at his forehead, cheeks and then his neck as he said, “All sweaty and red and hard working… you really are sexy, babe. It’s always cool to see you in the zone, regardless of whatever you’re working towards…”

Considering that breakfast hadn’t been that long ago, Kokichi wasn’t sure if he was up for eating again so soon, but...well, they’d see. He did need to make up for a lot of weight. 

He glanced at their clock, trying to see if it would be alright for him to take another dose, and...it was kind of soon. But after he finished the next exercise, and maybe after Kaito did a food run, it’d be about right. 

Kokichi closed his eyes as Kaito dabbed him of sweat, appreciating the gesture, laughing a little at Kaito’s amorous admiration. “It is nice to be working on something again, even if it’s working out. I have a feeling that I’m gonna start getting into the antsy part of recovery, where I’m alert enough to be bored, but still too weak to do much about it. But at least I have you and the others to keep me entertained. Can’t really be bored when I’m tired from light exercise.”

Taking a deep breath, Kokichi stretched his arms out to the sides before giving Kaito a focused look. “Alright. Ninety-degrees, wave like a bird.”

“Right! Let’s do this!”

Kaito, instead of just watching Kokichi try to raise his arm this time on his own, put a hand on his elbow and a hand on his wrist, but didn’t push up as he asked, “Do you wanna see how far you can go on your own first? Then I’ll take it from there?”

At first...Kokichi was a little disheartened to see Kaito immediately move to help him with his arms. It was well-meaning, and...even after Kaito’s explanation, which did make him feel a little better, was efficient, but… He was better with his arms than his legs, at least right now. And it just felt...better to have to ask for help later. 

But his husband was being kind without underestimating him so...Kokichi gave him a gentle smile and nodded. “Okay. It’s kind of like you’re spotting me, right?”

Taking another breath, Kokichi started to lift his arm, the movement smooth, though he was sure he’d start trembling before too long. Okay...first flap by himself...nice and easy…

Kaito grinned. Exactly. Spotting him. That was the perfect way to describe it. 

Following Kokichi’s movement, ready to catch his arm if he felt Kokichi lose his strength, Kaito grinned all the harder as Kokichi did the first wave all on his own, saying cheerfully, “Strong start… one down. Nice, nice… two… damn ‘Kichi, look at you go. Have you been lifting weights when I’m out of the room? Three…”

Kokichi smiled a bit as he breathed, making long, smooth motions with his arm. Nothing jarring or putting too much strain on his shoulder, just...trying to gently exercise his muscles. It helped that he’d been doing small things with his arms ever since he’d gotten any mobility back, whether it was asking for his hand to be held, following Kaito’s movements as he fed him, or trying to adjust himself in bed. 

He knew his legs were a bit fucked right now, but...it really was a big confidence boost, to see how much more capable he was with his arms. 

In fact, Kokichi was able to do the entire set on his own, though his arm was starting to feel a bit tired. 

“Ten! Fuck yeah! You killed it!” Kaito cheered, taking Kokichi’s arm and kissing at his wrist, once, twice, before giving him a bright, excited look as he said. “Well done, babe! That was flawless!”

Laying Kokichi’s arm down, Kaito moved off the bed, and with an exaggerated trot, headed to the other side, scooting in and, repeating the same placements of his hands on Kokichi’s left arm as he said, “Do you need a minute? Round two?”

Kokichi giggled a bit at Kaito’s trot and...really, with the time it took him to get settled on his other side… “Let’s go for it!”

Again, he started strong. His left hand, and thus arm, had always been a little weaker, just from the non-dominant bias, but Kokichi still felt capable. As he started the reps, he gave Kaito a cheeky look. “Don’t think I didn’t see that hustle. ...Kai-chan’s putting in work too. Think you’ll need...a nap after this yourself?”

“If it’s a nap with my ‘Kichi? That sounds nice. And I have to run, babe, Shuchi keeps making fun of me for my biceps. I know he’s fucking with me, but… what if I am becoming noodle armed!? Do you think I should get a pull up bar for the bathroom? Can I even do a pullup anymore?”

Kaito was lamenting with some exaggeration, but he was still keeping track of the reps, and Kokichi was still going strong. Good, good… Kaito supposed if he had to have a preference? He’d rather Kokichi’s upper body be functional over his lower body. Let his husband write and draw and hold a book or eat on his own… it’d be much more comfortable for his husband, for his arms to work. So any sign of progress on them was immensely relieving.

“You want to do any reading today? I’m a little curious about that series I got Shuuichi. It looked like fun to me… or we could read one of our Circleworld books? Those are always a good time.”

Mmm...a nice nap in his husband’s arms. That sounded like a wonderful late morning. 

Snickering, Kokichi gave Kaito an even look. “Hun, you regularly move around and pick up nearly ninety pounds--I think your arms are fine.” And then, because he was a shit, Kokichi immediately followed that up with, “I think it’s your abs that deserve your scrutiny. Personally, I like Kai-chan however his body is, but with the weather warming up, I know he’ll wanna show off his flat tummy.”

His left arm, while starting to tremble a little on the last few reps, was still able to do the set on his own, and by the time Kaito came back around to his other side, Kokichi figured he could start right away on his right arm again too, even if he wasn’t sure he could do all ten by himself this time. 

“Mm, it could be fun to read that light novel series… Even though I’ve read all the Circleworld books, I always feel like I can’t miss a second. So...it might be nice to read something that’s a little more low stakes for me…”

“Hey! Who knows what this light novel series will be like! Maybe it’ll be an edge of your seat, intellectual thrill ride! With sexy men doing sexy things and terrible, terrible jokes!” Kaito laughed, watching with admiration as Kokichi immediately went into the next rep. Four...five...six… that seventh one was a little slower. A little shakier. 

“I mean...it’s a possibility. I...I was…” Kokichi slowed down more on the eighth, his arm trembling. But to get through a rep and...over a half? A good sign. Slowly, Kokichi worked on the ninth, but before he put his arm down, he sighed. “Think I need a spot, hun…”

“...but...I was talking with Shuu-chan? And there’s a chance that...one of the books you got him...could be a direct spoof of one of the ones I got him… and…” Kokichi had to pause for a moment, just breathing, though there was a satisfied look on his face as he finished the rep on his right arm. “...and I thought it could be fun...to read them side by side… See how it goes when played straight, and...what the parody decides to mess with…”

Kaito immediately took the weight from Kokichi, giving him a small kiss on his wrist before carefully finishing the last one for him, before laying it down, “That was amazing, babe. Give that arm a rest, when we come back to it, let me go ahead and take the weight for ya. You did amazing. Let’s see how your left arm goes.”

Heading to the other side, taking his time this time to give Kokichi a minute to catch his breath, he laughed, “That's hilarious that we did that by accident. You got him a cool, interesting mystery series, and I got, at least in one instance, it’s sexy parody counterpart. That’s so… us, honestly.” Kaito laughed, placing his hands on Kokichi’s left arm, prepping to take the weight there a little sooner, since Kokichi was likely getting worn down. 

Kokichi laughed softly, sweat glimmering on his brow. “That’s exactly what Shuu-chan said.”

“Honestly...I got a little nervous when he got my books… You’d gotten him so much stuff, and...you and Drake both got him books too…” Kokichi only made it to stretch five before accepting Kaito’s help, his arm pausing for a moment in its movement. “I know that...doesn’t matter much. That it’s nice to get things because...it’s nice someone’s thinking about you… But I get insecure sometimes… It’s less these days...but I worry a lot about if I’m...good enough.”

“It’s something to get over… Focusing on just...doing my personal best is...a good shift. Though,” he smiled, “I like it when you compliment me too… I can’t...rely on that for my self-esteem, but it does feel nice.”

Kaito scoffed a little, starting to moving Kokichi’s arm after giving him a moment to collect himself, as he said, “If you’re not good enough, god help the rest of us. The world’s lucky no one has to directly compete with you, it’d be devastating, how quickly and efficiently you’d knock everyone else into the dirt. And you’d destroy people with this sweet, surprised, apologetic look on your face, like, whoops, did I annihilate the competition? Sorry, didn’t mean to, was just trying my best, hope it didn’t hurt… devastating.”

“And I only get you guys lots of gifts because… well, for one, I like to do it. But, two, the more genuinely nice gifts I get you guys, the more I can justify getting sexy underwear and funny joke books too, along with stuff I just kind of thought would be nice to have around in general.” Kaito confessed, glancing over at the almost finished milk puzzle, now covered in nice drawings and messages from their visitors, who had all taken some time to at least put one or two pieces in place. Kaito was planning to glue it and get it framed when it was done. He thought it was nice. Worth having it just hang around in the corner of the room for all that time. “You? You get people things you know they’d like. Hard to compete with that.”

Eight… nine… ten. “There we go! Second rep done! Go straight into the third? Need a minute?” Kaito asked, kissing his wrist before placing it down and heading to the other side, “...’Kichi, have people, like… told you? You’re not good enough? Or… is it your head being mean to you again? You’re so good… it just baffles me where that insecurity comes from.”

Stuff like that helped too. It was technically a compliment, but a more...grounded version of one, he supposed. It was hard to brush off something like that, even in a low. Kokichi snorted softly, grinning a bit bashfully as Kaito completely correctly judged how Kokichi would act if he was competing with someone in just...doing his job, he supposed. Though in a competition like that, everyone won, since it meant more people were being helped...but still. 

“I try,” he sighed. “It’s the thought that counts, but...it makes me happy when I can see someone putting my gifts to use, or that they enjoy them. That’s...kind of where I got the whole idea for Shuu-chan’s scavenger hunt. I thought he’d like the books, sure...but I thought that he’d really have fun solving a bunch of riddles, and having them amount to something… I like making people happy…”

And that was the crux of it, in a nutshell. Kokichi lived for ensuring happiness...and was devastated by their misery. 

Kokichi took a few breaths between sets, giving Kaito a nod when he was ready for the last round. “...it’s my brain, mostly. Sure, there are people who...who blame me and Aiichi when things go wrong, but for me...it’s more…”

“...I’ll see a disaster? Or just people hurting...and I’ll wonder what could’ve been done to avoid it. Even if it’s completely from chance...totally out of my hands… I’ll still feel like...I wasn’t good enough… That I could’ve helped them if I had been a little better…”

He sucked in a breath, flexing his hand as they came to the home stretch. “I know it’s not a healthy mindset...which is why I’m...trying to ease away from it… But it still gets me sometimes.”

Seven… eight… nine… “And, ten. You’re doing so good… you are so good. My compliments aren’t, like, just your husband gushing over you. It’s just me stating reality. With enthusiasm.” Kaito insisted, one last kiss to the right wrist. “Only ten more left, Kokichi. You’re doing great. Let’s end strong!”

Going around to his left, Kaito continued on, “Well, you know… if you knew how good you were? You’d probably be insufferable to be around. Maybe Atua nerfed you to make you likable.” Kaito laughed, giving Kokichi a small smirk, “Nothing more intolerable than someone who’s better than everyone else and is also emotionally self assured. How’s anyone supposed to talk to you without walking away feeling like shit about themselves? You’re too hard to compete with in everything else, might as well at least make people feel a bit better by not flaunting it. Atua gave you perpetual insecurity as a favor, my love… though, as your husband? I’m fine with you getting a big head. I fully support shoving off Atua’s nerf.” 

“It’s a little you gushing over me. You like to gush.” But it wasn’t empty flattery. Kaito meant everything he said, and knowing that? Knowing the kind of faith his husband had in him? Now that was a confidence boost like little else. 

Gently, Kokichi rolled his wrist, getting ready for the last bit of his exercise. Not bad for day one. 

Rolling his eyes, Kokichi sighed. “What a nerf… I was about to say I’d rather have more flaws and be more emotionally self-assured, but...I don’t mean that. I want to be the best I can for people, even if it means I’m always doubting myself in the grand scheme… But I’d argue that even without insecurity...someone who was really good would rather be spending...their time boosting other people up, than flaunting themselves… An example we should all follow Kai-chan for.”

For a moment, Kokichi thought about making a joke like, oh, going against god’s will, are we? But...it felt too mean. Especially for someone who didn’t believe, to a true believer. 

“This is...un. This is just my...journey as a person, I guess… Part of it. Walking the road of better mental health and self-confidence… I know how much Kai-chan enjoys those things so...I know I’ll have him cheering for me…”

“Heck yeah I will… speaking of which… eight… nine… TEN! FUCK YEAH! OUR HEAVY HITTER, RIGHT HERE! LIGHT OF DICEA, STUD OF POSTERS ON TEENAGE GIRLS WALLS EVERYWHERE, KOKICHI OUMA!! WOO!” Kaito crowed, holding Kokichi’s arm up like he was announcing a winner of a boxing match, before lacing his arm with small kisses, finally putting it down, and giving Kokichi a kiss on his cheek, laughing at the sweat, “You did great, babe! Hell yeah! Strong start! You killed the first day!”

Adjusting Kokichi to be laying back against the pillows again, taking a towel and cleaning off his sweat, Kaito grinned, “Alright, so, first thing I’ll do is go fetch juice, and anything else you want. When I get back, juice time, and then do you want a wash and a change of clothes?”

Kokichi was breathing a little heavy, was red and sweaty, but he giggled as his husband vamped him up to the nonexistent crowd, bellowing his accomplishments of finishing his first day of physical therapy. Kaito might’ve called him good...but Kaito was amazing. The world was alight with color and vibrancy because Kaito Momota was in it. 

Despite his rewarded determination, Kokichi was thankful to be set back against the pillows, his limbs feeling sore and tired, but with the warmth of being well-used. “That sounds great, hun. I feel okay now, but I think I’ll be happy to not be in sweaty clothes later… Then can we read a little, and take a nap together?”

“Sounds good. Tea too, though. You’ve been working hard today, I want to make certain your heavy little heart has what it needs.” Kaito insisted, giving Kokichi another kiss before saying, “Alright, I’ll be back. What kind of juice did you want? Don’t rush off with Shuuichi over your shoulder on me, I will be very annoyed.”

“Alright, I’ll have some when you get back,” Kokichi promised, gently kissing Kaito back. “Mmm...some orange juice, if we have some. If not, then grape. Thanks, hun. I love you.”

Settling down against the bed, Kokichi huffed softly. “That’s waaaay too predictable… Instead I’ll just follow you everywhere you go, but just out of eyesight. Hanging from rafters and matching you step for step… You could search everywhere in the world but never find me, never knowing I’m just over your shoulder…”

Kaito snorted, “Sure thing, Batman. Ah well, surprise me with a kiss every now and again, I’ll forgive you for being a weirdo…. Hey you were kidding about my abs earlier, right?” Kaito asked, rubbing his stomach with (exaggerated) uncertainty, “Like, I can do crunches instead of pullups, at least I wouldn’t have to hang up a bar… nevermind, nevermind, I’ll be back!”

And off he went.

-

Physical therapy was a routine that Kokichi could settle into, but he didn’t have much of a chance to do it. Finally, after months of planning and travel, seeing the end of a war, the children from Sunnyside, Maki’s siblings, all thirty of them, were going to arrive in Usott. 

Denji actually came by that morning, not dolling Kokichi up in his usual official way, but just to help everyone get ready. For the first time in a few weeks, Kokichi wasn’t wearing pajamas, though his clothes were still loose and light, and they had checked out a wheelchair from the med bay for him to spend...as much of the day as he was willing to in it. Denji picked out a nice, warm blanket to tuck around his legs and waist, they had breakfast and…

Amazingly enough, the entrance hall really was empty. It was...a little unnerving, actually, since Kokichi was so used to seeing it full and bustling with people. But they didn’t want to freak out the kids. It was scary enough being in a new country, having to meet new guardians--they were going to try easing the kids into seeing Diceans everywhere. Even if they’d likely gone through towns and, if not socialized, then had seen people out and about. 

Kokichi was sitting up in his chair, a little tired, probably...not the image of a prince the kids were imagining...but he had a soft, welcoming look on his face as he watched the doors, Aiichi standing passively by him. It was the moment of truth…

Kaito looked closer to how he looked when he first arrived to Dicea than he has since the wedding.

His cheaper earrings were all out, with the exception of the piece Amber made for him in his shell earing. He was wearing, for the first time since he got here, his ‘casual’ armor, a sturdy, flexible dark brown leather armor with a metal shoulder guard that clasped together his sturdy, green-lining cape (his wedding and proposal capes seemed too fancy, his red cape would be improper, considering it was a guard cape.). He even had his sword on his waist, entirely determined to look… familiar. Reassuring. 

And… he was worried about Shuuichi. Who was, dressed in his black, stiff suit, was visibly trembling… “Handsome?” Kaito whispered to him, unable to see his face beneath his hat, Shuuichi’s head dipped down. “...are you okay?”

Shuuichi didn’t answer… but there was a small, wet strangled sound… refusing to look up. 

Kaito glanced at everyone else in the hall, glanced at the doors… he didn’t have time to calm him down.

Putting his hand on Shuuichi’s back, he whispered into his ear, “It’s okay. Why don’t you go to the dining hall, drink some tea, see if you can’t find someone in there to help you upstairs when you’re ready.”

“...I’m sorry…”

“Don’t be sorry. You’re fine. You can see the kids later, okay? I’m sure some of them will want to see you, but I’ll warn them beforehand you’re… different looking now. Okay? No surprised looks.” Kaito whispered, guessing the issue.

Shuuichi nodded, letting out a shaky breath, before murmuring, “Okay…’m sorry.” before, keeping his head down, he hurried off to the direction of the dining. Kaito watched him go and sighed, running a hand over the back of his neck. He should have guessed that was going to come up before now… damn. They should have talked about that…

“Is Uncle Shuuichi okay?” Tim asked, also well dressed, standing at Kaito’s other side, a step back, his face… carefully blank the entire day. Kaito had asked him for help with this, hoping that seeing another Luminary kid, unarmed and unharmed being there, would be reassuring. Timothy had easily agreed, but there was clear aspects of his training kicking in, looking more like a soldier standing in waiting then a kid waiting for other kids. He wouldn’t look out of place with a spear in his hand.

“He’s fine. He just needed to get off his feet. He’ll be fine.” Kaito whispered back, certain the kitchen staff would take care of his boyfriend. At the very least if Chako, Waku, Hajime, Takashi… lots of people. Kaito could trust that lots of people in the staff would know how to help Shuuichi right now, and one of them would definitely be at the dining hall right now. It would be fine.

Kaito readied his stance and straightened his back. There were the sounds of voices outside the door…

Kokichi glanced over when he heard Kaito whispering, watching with concern as Shuuichi hurried away...his face hidden. He wanted to follow, but...the kids were nearly there. At least for the start… He had been devastated to think he’d still be fully bedridden when the kids came. Sure, he would’ve liked to have been stronger, but getting to be there at all was...amazing, really. At least for the start, Kokichi wanted to greet them. Hopefully convey that they were welcomed. 

...maybe once the kids were settled a bit, he’d ask someone to take him to Shuuichi…

But right now, there were other people who needed him there--to an extent, at least. 

The door opened, and Kokichi’s smile warmed, seeing the large group of kids, just as his friends had said, ranging from about Tim’s age--a few a little older, maybe--to toddlers who...didn’t really look like they knew what was going on. At his side, Aiichi waited for the kids to come in before speaking, using a much calmer tone than what he usually used to address crowds. “Our treasured guests have arrived. I’m sure we will get to know each other in time, but, for now, I am Aiichi Ouma, the king of Dicea.”

“This is my son, Prince Kokichi Momota Ouma,” he gestured to Kokichi, who gave the kids a wave, “And, as I’m sure some of you know, Prince Kaito Ouma Momota. And last but not least,” at least a change like this was easy to alter on the fly--Aiichi hoped Shuuichi was alright, “Prince Kaito’s son, Timothy Harukawa.”

“On behalf of us all, and Dicea at large,” the king nodded his head in the slightest of bows, having consulted with others to see what would be respectful, yet not alarming to the Luminous children, “Welcome to Dicea. We’re happy to have you here, and hope you find happiness as well.”

There were, all in all, thirty-two children here, and they were as follows.

There were five ‘older’ kids, eleven, twelve year olds, who were clearly trying to act as the ringleaders of the whole gaggle of children, standing near the front of the group, the toddlers hanging around their feet, the middle range kids standing a bit behind them and around them. One kid, a fiercely stern look in his face, his brow constantly furrowed, bowed low when the king nodded his head, and following specifically his lead, the other kids-- many who were, in fact, very confused, and not entirely certain what was actually happening-- followed his lead, most of them bowing low, with the exception of a few of the youngest children, who either couldn’t or weren’t aware or paying attention enough to keep up, and a few older kids who just… refused. Tense and wary, something angry or almost smug in their gazes.

Two of the older kids were both holding infants, and one of the middle range kids, maybe eight or nine, was wearing a baby holder, an infant sleeping against his chest. Three infants in total. Five older kids, three infants, nine toddlers, ranging from two to five, and the other fifteen children were kids between the ages of six and ten.

One of the kids, wearing overalls and sporting a black eye, was holding one of the older girls hands, practically bouncing at his feet as the king spoke, clearly full of energy… and his face lit up when he saw Kaito, who stepped forward as planned, and started to say, “As King Aiichi, said, welcome to Dicea, everyone. It’s been a long trip, and I’m sure you have que-”

“PRINCE KAITO!!” Jaime screamed, and to the older girl’s horror, he pulled away from her, bee-lining for the prince. Immediately following behind him four more kids around his age, all rushing to Kaito as the older girl demanded they return. Some of the younger kids, seeing Jaime and the others running to Kaito, followed suit, not wanting to miss out on the game, and suddenly half the damn group was making a run at Kaito.

And as they ran at him Kaito could only think - Ah. Shit. Right. Jaime. 

Damn.

On his credit, he grabbed Tim, and moved him backwards a bit, not wanting him to get caught in the stampede. And Tim, to his credit, immediately went to stand with Kokichi, eyes wide, whole body tense as it genuinely occurred to him he might have to defend the immobile prince-

And he raised an eyebrow as the kids freaking tackled Kaito, immediately trying to wrestle him down as Kaito shouted, “Jaime, not now, this is a bad time!”

“NEVER SAY DIE! GET HIM!” Jaime crowed, immediately trying to crawl to his shoulders, while the smaller kids went for his legs, the bigger ones going for his arms, the group doing their best to wrestle him down, while Kaito did his best to keep himself steady.

“Guys, guys, stop!  It’s not wrestling time!” the older girl, Piper, shouted, looking mortified, while Glen, the original kid who bowed, looked in alarm at King Aiichi. 

Kokichi’s eyes widened as the kids surged forward, but...it soon turned into a smile, one that if he hadn’t been so entrapped by the scene in front of him, he would’ve been mortified to see mirrored on his father’s face. Something soft and amused and proud. Aiichi was aware of how the older kids would be alarmed by this but...well. Even despite major cultural differences, kids will be kids. 

(And...it was really sweet, how Tim went to stand by Kokichi. That would be a moment he carried with him for a while.)

Despite himself, Kokichi laughed softly, absolutely adoring in how much the kids loved Kaito, though Aiichi got a hold of the situation a little sooner. There was still a calm look on his face, though he couldn’t wholly hide his amusement. “I’m glad to see you have the energy to start the festivities early, but your sister is correct. Wrestling time can continue later.”

Getting a hold of himself, Kokichi nodded at the remaining group of kids, figuring they’d be paying a little more attention--at least the older ones. “We prepared a bit of a gathering for you all. Food and drink and a space to relax after such a long journey, as well as get some answers. I know your sister Maki explained a little in Luminary, but I’m sure there’s a lot on your minds. We’ll do our best to answer.”

The only problem with a group of children this size, was that even if some of the kids could take a hint, a few of them either didn’t, couldn’t, or wouldn’t. A few of the kids got off and backed up when Kaito first told them to. A few more got off when Aiichi told them to. Two got off at Piper’s call, giggling and running back to her, hugging her hips. Jaime, and three of his friend group, however, didn’t care about any of that, determined to wrestle Kaito down…

Glen looked to Abel and Hannah, Abel the oldest of the kids and the biggest, Hannah ten but just made of sheer bulk, and said to them, “Go. Make them stop.”

Both of the kids, nodding, ran to Kaito, and with a sudden ruthlessness that might have startled some of the people in here that weren’t used to that sort of thing, one by one they grabbed the kids and threw them back to the group, Jaime in particular landing roughly on his back, the breath knocked out of him, before scurrying up, unphased, running back to the group and pouting, saying through some of his missing teeth to Glen, “What was that for?”

Glen scowled, grabbing Jaime’s ear and, squeezing it hard, said, “Shut up, you’re gonna get someone killed. Stay with Abel.”

Kaito sighed, brushing himself off, before giving the kids a wary grin. “Hey, hey, it’s okay. Time and place, guys, like King Aichi said, there will be time for stuff like that later! I promise! Everything’s okay! But, like Prince Kokichi said, we need to get you all settled in and questions answered!”

Tim, who had been watching where the kids were putting their hands during the tenser moments, narrowed his eyes… before tugging at Kaito’s cape. “Hmm?” Kaito hummed, leaning down so that his son could whisper in his ear, “...yeah, I know. I’ll talk to them about it. Thank you.”

While the kids were listening to King Aiichi and Kokichi, no one seemed to feel comfortable actually speaking up to anything they said, some looking nervous or wary, a few openly glaring. Kaito looked around at the nervous, uncertain faces, and said, “King Aiichi and Prince Kokichi have worked very hard to set up these rooms for us…” And realizing he needed to be more stern than this, or he was going to lose some of them, he suddenly straightened his shoulders, put his hand on his sword, and said, “Thank the king for his hospitality, and follow him to the room. No one wander off, we’re moving as a group, and we’re getting everything cleared up. Understand?”

Still a few frustrated looks... but some of the older kids said, “Yes, Prince Kaito,” and the more impressionable younger kids followed their lead, echoing the affirmation… though one of the smaller kids, maybe five, raised her hand and said urgently, “Can I go to the bathroom!?”

Kaito hesitated. “...how many of you have to go to the bathroom?”

Many hands.

Kokichi...tried not to look too shocked at how Jaime hit the ground. Tried to keep his expression to ‘mild surprise’ if anything, even if the casual roughness was...more than mild to him. Even watching Tim and the girls roughhouse hadn’t quite prepared him...but the last thing he wanted was to make these kids feel alien. They’d get enough of it already. 

And...some of getting them used to things, to making them feel safe and welcomed...meant being a little tougher, he supposed. Even if Kokichi knew he didn’t have the heart to order around a group of children. 

But he could offer some solutions. 

“Let’s do a bathroom trip first, then,” Kokichi decided, making eye contact with the travel guardians who were standing just off to the side of the kids, trying not to wall them in, but keeping close. “The rooms we’ve set up for you all have bathrooms nearby, so this will be a good way to let everyone know where they are.”

“So shall we go,” Aiichi agreed, stepping to take the handles on the back of Kokichi’s chair, going to wheel him as they led the way. “Everyone, please follow Prince Kaito’s instructions. Stay together--no one wants to get lost right at the end of a journey.”

While plenty of the kids openly looked around and gaped at the castle, impressed and a little distracted, some stopping and looking and others staring down hallways too long, a considering look on their faces, though no one actually managed to wander off between all the various eyes on them. Kaito, Tim, and the caretakers (who knew better, by now) kept a wary eye on the kids, looking for the ‘adventurous’ types who might not care about the warnings to stay together. Still, so many eyes, so few opportunities, and after getting everyone in and out of the bathrooms, they finally got the party rooms…

This was the first time the kids looked genuinely flummoxed. Almost alarmed as the middle of the road and older kids all grouped together tighter, wary and suspicious of something this nice being offered to them, expecting some sort of trick, while the smaller kids, seeing all the bright decorations and food, look at the CAKE, look, look!!

The seven and under crowd couldn’t really help themselves. They started jumping on their feet in excitement, some immediately running forward, others looking to Glen, wordlessly asking for permission. Glen looked nervous, but… eventually just nodded, and the kids rushed forward, some of them going for the balloons, most of them going for the food, a few of the kids heading to the fireplace, delighted with the crackling fire.

Kaito sighed, watching the kids spread around, looking at the variety of things the room had to offer, laughter and giggles starting to fill the room, the energy of the happier kids contagious to the more nervous ones. So far, so good… “Hey! See? Thank King Aiichi for his hospitality!”

Most of the kids paused, a few of them turning to bow before returning to their play, some of the kids calling out “Thank you, King Aiichi!” 

Kaito glanced at Aiichi and gave him a sheepish look. “I know, I know, you don’t need them to do that. But Luminaries respect, well… respect. If you don’t make them be polite now, they’re just going to get more aggressive. Like a sort of self-fulfilling prophecy, sort of thing… Maki would be able to explain it better.” Kaito sighed. She’d probably be able to do it better, too. Kaito had never had to make the kids act respectful before. He was just mimicking what she did and hoping he was doing it right.

At last, both Aiichi and Kokichi relaxed slightly, seeing the kids start to enjoy the party they’d planned. Kokichi had been wheeled over to the side of the room, not placed right in the kids’ way of anything, but open for interaction, and while he wasn’t really expecting any of them to want to talk to him, he was enjoying himself watching them. Seeing just...kids be excited and curious and full of energy to play and explore. 

Next to Kaito, Aiichi nodded a bit, giving the young man a grateful smile. “So I see. I can’t say I’m all that comfortable demanding certain behavior, but that is an invaluable tip for assuring our new friends. I will follow in your example, Kaito. But I think there are more than a few little ones who are getting a bit impatient to have your attention.”

“Yeah? Oh… hey!” Kaito’s face lit up, turning to see three very familiar faces, though… one of them… 

“P-Prince Kaito!” Savannah said, eyes red with unshed tears as, unable to hold back anymore, she ran into his arms, Kaito catching her with an increasingly shocked look on his face. Piper also seemed pleased to see him, while Glen was looking at him like he was some sort of lifeline, clearly stressing the fuck out and hoping the prince might have some answers. Though Savannah…

“Hey… what are you doing here?” Kaito said gently, rubbing her back, “Savannah, what happened?”

“Odette’s here too,” Glen said grimly, gesturing over to the table full of food, a slightly younger girl, nine, was helping the smaller kids get plates made up. Kaito’s eyes widened when he looked and saw Glen was right.

“Odette… Guys, what happened, you’re supposed to be… what happened?” Kaito asked gently, still rubbing the young girl’s back, Savannah stepped back after a moment, rubbing her eyes, “You and Odette should be Acolytes right now…”

“P-Priestess Gail said she saw all the new acolytes from our orphanage consorting with d-demons… we got sent back… I d-don’t know why she said it. I th-thought she liked us… we-we’re not allowed to be priestesses anymore… Atua d-disowned us-”

“Shhh, hey, hey, no he didn’t. Atua loves you… come on, come here… Odette? Oddette, come over here, I want to talk to you-”

“We don’t have time for that,” Glen insisted, glancing nervously at Aiichi before, pulling Kaito away a bit, he said urgently, “We’ve been training. All of us.”

Kaito blinked at him, glancing at Savannah, wanting to sit down and reassure her, but… this sounded urgent. “What?”

“Training. We’re ready. All of us. I swear it. We should do it now, while we’re all alone in a room with their leaders…” Glen glanced at Aiichi and Kokichi, before putting a hand on his shirt, he said, “On your word, Prince Kaito. We can take them out and make a run for it… we’re ready. I swear it.”

...Kaito blinked again. “...we’re not attacking the Oumas.”

“...what? Why not? We outnumber them. We can’t stay hostages. We can escape.”

“...kay. Um...Savannah, we’ll talk more later. I promise. Everyone! Everyone!” Kaito called out, “Find a seat somewhere, we all need to talk! Get some things cleared up!”

Meanwhile, two of the smaller kids, maybe four, had approached Kokichi curiously, holding plates full of food. “...are you cold?” one of them asked, looking at the blanket.

Kokichi had glanced up to where Kaito was calling the kids, but...well. These two seemed very young and...might need a refresher anyway. Smiling gently at them, Kokichi nodded. “I am, a bit. My big sibling worried about me getting cold during this party, so they gave me this blanket. It’s very soft and warm--I appreciate them looking out for me.”

“How do you like the food?” he gently asked. “We know Dicean food can be a bit different, but Kai-chan said many of our sweets are similar. I’m glad--cake is something I think everyone should enjoy.”

He had never heard it from Tim. And Kaito had never spoken the true reason. But Aiichi had a solid guess as to what really happened in the greenhouse all those months ago. Even if Maki initially explained that she had ensured their freedoms, Aiichi knew the kids would be far from jumping for joy. Those who were old enough to understand would be suspicious, nervous. Angry. 

And he was prepared for the possible outcome of those emotions. 

But, as he watched Kaito gather the kids, he hoped it wouldn’t come to that. 

The four-year-olds frowned at that, before one of them said, wisely, “The fire’s warm. We’re strong, we can push you to the fire.”

The other four-year-old, not waiting to get an answer, placed his plate clumsily onto Kokichi’s lap, before determinedly starting to try to turn the wheel of the chair- “Hey. What are you two doing?” Tim asked, coming over, “Don’t push his chair. Do you wanna die?”

The four-year-olds eyes widened. Grouping up tighter to each other, nervous and uncertain what they had done wrong.

“O-oh.” Kokichi scrambled to hold onto the four-year-old’s plate, making sure nothing would fall off, but before he could say he was alright where he was, Tim came over to chastise them. And...this situation really was too sweet. 

Maintaining his gentle look, Kokichi smiled at Tim. “It’s alright. They were asking about my blanket, and I mentioned I was a little cold, and, gosh, I’m sorry I don’t know your names,” he nodded to the younger kids, “They thought that if someone was cold, then they should sit by the fire. It was a good idea.”

“And thank you for that! It was very kind of you,” he grinned at the kids. “But it is also kind to ask someone before you move them, so let’s try asking next time, alright?”

“Gabel,” one of the kids said, while the other one half-shouted, “Mitchy!”

And the two kids looked up, wide eyed, at Kokichi, not… entirely understanding, but, okay. One of the kids sighing dramatically and saying, “Okay… I just thought, you can’t move very well,“ while the other one said, “We can push!”

Tim frowned, but forced himself to relax, as he said, “Fine… but you shouldn’t just let them approach you right now, Uncle Kokichi… a lot of them have-”

“Alright! To start with! No surprise weapons! I’m not taking them from you, but everyone who currently has a weapon in your clothes? Raise your hand!” Kaito insisted, crossing his arms, a stern look on his face. “Knives, sticks, acid vials, anything you’re carrying specifically to hurt someone. All of it counts!”

The younger kids, almost immediately, all raised their hands, to the absolute horror of the older kids… who reluctantly all started raising their hands as well. Glen looked furious. A few of the kids, excited to show off, took out their weapons, showing them to Kaito, who sighed. Knives, batons… okay, that looked like the range.

“Okay, alright, put them back. No secret weapons you guys, we’re not here to hurt any Diceans, and the people here trying to help you have a right to know that you’re carrying weapons. Alright… now, I know Maki told you guys you weren’t hostages. That this isn’t a hostage situation. So, Glen? Explain to me what happened between leaving Maki and getting here. Why are all of your siblings carrying weapons and ‘ready to strike?’”

“She…” Glen twitched, glancing furious at Aiichi. This was stupid. Why was Prince Kaito… were they forcing him to do this? “...she was speaking in code!” 

Tim rolled his eyes. “Civilians,” he muttered, the word clearly derogatory. 

“It’s nice to meet you, Gabel and Mitchy,” Kokichi grinned, bowing his head much in the same manner Aiichi had earlier. “My name is Kokichi--thank you for your consideration.”

It was probably a good idea that Tim interfered, but Kokichi didn’t want to intimidate the kids, especially a few so young, but… He looked over as...all the kids raised their hands, pulling out their weapons. A tired, slightly sad look on his face that he wasn’t quite able to hide right away. 

...sometimes it didn’t matter even if someone you trusted reassured you. You would make any sort of logical leap to get to the conclusion you wanted. 

...they were children. 

Sighing softly, Kokichi gave his nephew a look. “You’re a civvie now too, Tim.”

Tim tsked, clearly not convinced of that, as Glen explained to Kaito urgently, “Prince Kaito, you don’t have to do this. They’re going to separate all of us tomorrow, this is our last chance to strike as a unit! We can’t wait, we have to strike now!”

“No, because we don’t have any enemies here. And you’re sleeping in different homes, but you’re not all being separated; myself, Shuuichi Saihara, and your sister Maki, eventually, will be keeping in contact with you, you’ll have access to each other, and King Aiichi and Prince Kokichi are all ensuring that no one’s being taken out of the city-”

“You’ve been brainwashed! These fucking dirt-jumpers have gotten into your head! We’ve all been kidnapped by the enemy, and we have to ki-”

“You will not talk until I am finished.”

Glen’s whole body jumped, like a shock, and he took a step back, looking more like the child he was in that moment, alarmed and afraid. Kaito, gripping his teeth and glaring at him, took a breath… and relaxed himself a little. Going on, “We’re going to explain everything, and we’re going to address all your fears. But we’re not getting anywhere if you won’t have faith in Maki or my words. Now…” Kaito glanced at the rest of the kids in the room, all watching wide eyed and tense, “...Glen, we’ll start with your questions for now, and move on to everyone else. Now, what did Maki actually tell you?”

Glen looked like he wanted to insist she was talking in code again… but said, “She said that we were being sent here as members of an exchange program, but that that was a lie, and to e-expect to live here from now on… she said she made a deal to move us with King Byakuya… b-but that makes no sense! Diceans are the enemy! If we were being sent to live here, it must be to keep us hostage and-”

“Glen, your sister already told you. No one made her say what she said. She made a deal because she wanted you guys here and safe… and she decided that would be best for you. As your prince, and her friend, I agree with her. And King Aiichi and Prince Kokichi have been kind enough to help her make that wish a reality. You’re here because Maki loves you. No other reason.”

“Then why didn’t she come back with us?” Piper called out, before flinching. “Sorry… I didn’t mean to interrupt…”

“No, no, you’re fine, that’s a good question… Maki brought you to the border because she wanted to make certain you were safe. She decided you were safe once you were in Dicea. That’s because she trusts Diceans to keep you safe, not because anyone made her leave you. Everything Maki told you was true. No one compelled her. No one is threatening us or forcing us to keep you here. You are here because Dicea is safe…” Kaito glanced at King Aiichi. 

Aiichi nodded, coming forward slightly from where he had been watching, but still not encroaching upon the kids. “Your sister Maki and I spoke at length when the opportunity to bring you all here came up. About what it would mean for you, and how we, as Diceans, should handle it.”

“When it was decided that we would send thirty of our citizens to Luminary in exchange for all of you, Luminary was at war. You all were being marked for the Indentured Program. This was unacceptable to Maki. She wanted you all to be safe, and to have as many opportunities for your future as you wish; and that is what I, as the leader of Dicea, am ensuring for you.” Thinking for a moment, Aiichi wasn’t sure how pervasive the knowledge was to young children, but… “And this was your sister’s decision. She is a free citizen of Dicea--I am not in her chain of command.”

“As of just about now, actually, you are all free citizens of Dicea as well.”

Most of the middle of the road kids and the younger kids didn’t… entirely understand any of this. They hadn’t for months now. Big Sis Maki had come by and said, ‘you’re all moving’.  Okay. Then a month or so ago Big Bro Glen had said ‘We have to train, they’re going to kidnap us, we need to be ready to strike and run as soon as we get where Prince Kaito and Shuuichi Saihara are.’ So, they had started to do that-- training could be loads of fun, really. The kids who nicked themselves on the knives all got sticks!-- even if most of them hadn’t really understood Glen meant for them to fight for their lives. And now… well, most of them guessed things were different again, and they were ready to accept that just as much as the previous things. Because, well… they didn’t really understand. They were just used to doing what they were told.

But the older kids look notably confused, because they did understand. And it just… made no sense…

Katio sighed, seeing the distrust and unease on their faces, and said more gently, “You don’t have to understand right away. This is a lot, all at once. And, I promise you, today isn’t your last day to understand. You’re not being blown to separate corners of the earth tomorrow. We’re not losing track of any of you. This castle is open to all of you, to come and go as you please, and my door, along with King Aiichi, is always open to all of you, if you have any fears or concerns or need information. You’re not being abandoned. Or hidden. Or kidnapped…” Well, they kind of were, but sort of for their own good, and it was more accurate to say Luminary had sold them to Dicea, rather than Dicea was actually kidnapping them, “... it’s okay. You’re not in danger here. King Aiichi is claiming you as his. And I’m still responsible for you as your prince. You are not among enemies here…”

It was Hannah, brow furrowed, who said, “Are we… not still in the Indentured program?”

“No.” Kaito said, “You’re standard civilians now.”

“...then, what’s our jobs?” Piper asked.

“You… will go to school! Tim! Kid, you mind…”

With a sigh, Tim went to the front now, and started dryly answering questions of what being a kid in Dicea actually looked like. Maybe it was because Tim was a Luminary child basically eight months ahead of the rest of them, maybe it was because his attitude made him easier for the other kids to trust-- he was so clearly uninterested in all of this, it made it easier to accept what he said as true-- but as Tim started answering questions, Kaito took a step back and sighed to Aiichi. “Fucking hell...we can’t take their weapons from them, they’ll freak. But you should warn the families that they have them and some of them thought they were coming to war… fuck. Sorry about all that...”

It was going to be a very confusing time. Everything that Tim went through, nearly, would be the next few months of these kids’ futures. But...they had this debriefing, and they had people who understood more now, and their guardians had been preparing for months. If Tim had gotten through it? Even with his steady resilience giving him a bonus, they could do it too. 

In some ways, it would be easiest for the youngests of the group. But they were not going to let down their vigilance on ‘should be’s. 

Taking a step back with Kaito, Aiichi nodded, though he gave his son-in-law a half-amused look. “I’ll be sure to pass on the specifics, but generally, they already know. We were expecting something along these lines… I suppose I should assume that Denji was rather subtle in putting Kokichi’s under armor on this morning?”

It was a risk to have Kokichi here, but...Aiichi couldn’t ask him to stay away. Instead, he could just equip his son the best he could for possible fallout. 

“All of the foster families are trained in combat, something they’ve had even before the cultural seminars. They will be able to demonstrate that they can protect their wards, as well as protect themselves and others from the children. We have asked that they do not bring weapons to the meeting today, though. Perhaps, if some of the children show interest, that can be something for tomorrow.”

And it wasn’t Aiichi’s place to say, even if it might reassure Kaito, but a few of the participating folks were older transplants from Luminary. Not necessarily refugees, though he knew a few were, but others were just people who had immigrated in the less secretive way. Apparently their insight had been invaluable to the seminars, even if some of the information was rather old.

“Kokichi’s wearing armor?” Kaito asked, entirely flummoxed, glancing at his husband, who seemed to be getting a gaggle of toddlers all drifting themselves around him. “...you know, you’d think he’d tell me? Like I wouldn’t have been thrilled to know he was taking a precaution like that… honestly…” Kaito sighed, rubbing a hand over his face, so worn down now…

As Tim started to explain that Diceans were kind of weird and you weren’t allowed to spar them, or spar each other in front of them, so you had to do it in secre- Kaito laughed a tad too loudly and, swooping up to take Tim’s shoulder and pull him closer to himself, said, “Thank you, Tim! Very informative! Very helpful! Alright… now, we’re all gonna be here for more individual questions! But, you’ve had a long journey and you all should relax and eat and take a minute, okay? Put some food into yourselves, all of this is yours to eat, and if you run out, we can bring in more. Just… take a minute.” Kaito said, looking to the older kids specifically, “Everything is fine.”

The kids recognized this as the dismissal it was, and some of the younger ones who had eaten during all of that started to get more rambunctious, playing tag with each other and some of them wrestling, while the older kids shuffled over to the banquet, whispering urgently to each other, trying to reason out to each other exactly what all of this meant. 

Deciding to check on his husband, Kaito headed over, giving him a wary grin as he said softly, “Hey, babe… that was a lot. How are you? How do you feel?”

Kokichi had been speaking gently with the young kids that came and went around him, just...trying to be kind but not too pushy, and engaging but not too invasive… It was hard, but seeing them run around all full of energy kept him in a bright mood, even as he was starting to get a bit worn down. 

He was thankful when Kaito came over, and he grinned tiredly up at his husband. Just...pale and small and ill...but bright and kind all the same. “Nice job, hun. I think it’ll take time, but...I think you’ve given them something to consider, at least.”

“...I’m alright. Getting a little tired, but...that’s kind of par for the course. I’ll be alright for a while.” He didn’t want to leave just yet…

Kaito nodded, about to make some joke about the under armor, when he felt a tug at his arm. “Oh, Savannah, Odette… hey girls… I’m sorry I yelled earlier.” Kaito sighed, seeing the wary, nervous looks on their faces, squatting down so that he wasn’t towering over them as he said, “Are you two ready to talk about what happened?”

“Atua denounced us-”

“He didn’t,” Kaito said quickly, “Who told you he did? He doesn’t do things like that.”

“Priestess Gail said we were consorting with demons,” Savannah explained again, once again her face wobbling, while Odette went and held her hand, “She couldn’t prove it, because we weren’t-”

“I know. I believe you,” Kaito said immediately.

“-but they kicked us out anyway. Just to be sure… Said we weren’t allowed to qualify as priestesses anymore, so there was no point to us being acolytes… we ended up back to the orphanage a couple of days before big sis showed up to say we were all moving…”

“I see… I’m sorry, girls… you were doing so well…”

“Did Atua tell you he hated us?” Odette asked, looking alarmed. “Can you ask him?”

“He does not hate you. Atua loves you. Regardless of what the priestesses might have said… No, he hasn’t said he hates you, Odette…” Kaito sighed, rubbing his hand over his face, before looking the girls over. “... I’m a Momota. I don’t care what they said. I say Atua loves you, and that you should still qualify… Do you guys still want to be priestesses?”

Odette shrugged, but Savannah nodded her head.

“Okay… Odette, you don’t have to be if you’ve changed your mind. That’s totally fine. You have lots of options here. Savannah? Diceans have Atuans too. At some point soon, I’ll introduce you to their priests and priestesses, we’ll ask them how it works here, okay? You can be a priestess still, I promise… hey, come here. I’m still very proud of you. I’m sorry Priestess Gail said that...”

Savannah, who had really wanted to be a priestess, and had been an acolyte for the last year and a half, ran into his arms, bubbling tears. Kaito rubbed her back, trying to think… why would Priestess Gail… he didn’t remember her specifically, but the priestesses didn’t take acolytes lightly, and they weren’t cruel to them. Why…

...ended up in the orphanage a few days before Maki showed up, huh?

Maybe another reason to spar with the woman. He could understand wanting a better life for her siblings, but Savannah and Odette had worked hard to be accepted into the temples. If she had sabotaged them to get them to Dicea… that wasn’t fair. That wasn’t her call to make. Hopefully Maki hadn’t done that…

Kokichi frowned softly, hearing the girls’ story. He knew demon panic in Luminary could get a little out of hand, but...on no proof, to just...send two young girls into an uncertain and possibly dangerous future? Maybe it was different, because it wasn’t an orphanage managed by the temples, but...to abandon and crush children like that…

He was glad Kaito could connect and comfort the girls. Kokichi’s heart ached to, but...it wouldn’t mean anything to them. Right now, to many of the kids, he didn’t mean anything, except maybe an odd enemy. And...that was okay. He didn’t need to be a figure in these kids’ lives. ...but he still wanted to give reassurance where he could. Maybe right now, all that meant was sitting off to the side and answering the idle questions of toddlers.

-

It was a few hours later, and one of the kids, a little more brave than the others, had figured out that not only was the door at the back of the room unlocked, but it led out into a whole damn garden.

Kaito had been a little nervous when the kids realized this. It wasn’t like the castle was ungated or unguarded, the thirty+ kids entirely allowed to run off wherever they saw fit, but… well, Kaito happened to know first hand that the castle was really, really terrible at keeping kids who wanted to leave inside of its walls. So, eyes darting around, trying to keep track of literally over thirty people as the energetic and rambunctious children darted to and fro, playing games with each other, finding quiet, isolated places to talk in, some of them clearly wanting to explore for exploring’s sake and Kaito knowing damn well if any of the kids get past the wall and into town the kids themselves weren’t going to know how to get back and it’d be so damn hard to find them…

For some reason, Kaito had a weird mental image of tiny tadpoles swimming in a lake. Had he had a dream about that? Something like that… “Jaime! Jaime, you guys don’t need to go out that far! Get back over here!” Kaito called out to the rambunctious eight-year-old, Jaime, as always, looking like a deer caught in a light, a totally innocent, ‘what, who me?’ look, as if he had no idea he was doing anything wrong. The frustrating thing was Kaito knew Jaime didn’t realize he was doing anything wrong, watching the kid and his friends coming back over to the group, and already knowing he’d have to call them back again later anyway. Jaime just… didn’t really get those sort of social cues. If it was fun for him, then the kid seemed to reason, it was fun for everyone, and no one would have a problem with it. No amount of correcting seemed to help. He’d just… forget. Hopefully whoever was fostering him was ready for that…

“You get that this is too good to be true, right?” Glen asked, walking up to him. It was the first thing the kid had said to him since the shouting match in the parlor. “They’ve tricked you.”

Kaito internally sighed… oh boy…

Again, it was a precaution Aiichi really hoped they didn’t have to take. They weren’t keeping guards by the interior doors, didn’t want the kids to feel like prisoners, even if they already felt that way. But they had scheduled an additional patrol route outside the walls around the east garden, had people stationed in the backlot and the south garden, though they hadn’t actually asked people to stay away from those areas, so hopefully the kids wouldn’t go anyway.

...but it was a genuinely beautiful day out. The sun was soft but warmed the earth and the flowers in the garden were blooming, filling the area with a sweet scent. The distant din of people in town going about their days could be heard, but it was just that--distant. Far enough away that the garden still felt like its own little area. 

Kokichi had asked his father to be wheeled out into the garden once the kids started going out, feeling that a bit of fresh air could do him well. And while he couldn’t be too much help actually wrangling the kids, he was another pair of eyes. Though...he found his gaze lingering on the boy who had taken up the leadership mantle for the group, coming up to Kaito. He wished he could explain things, but...well, the kid didn’t trust him at all, and, historically, Kokichi had been pretty awful at explaining life in Dicea to Luminaries. Hopefully Kaito could do a better job of it…

“...I haven't been tricked, Glen…” Kaito gave the kid, who was giving him an openly skeptical look, and sighed again, “What happened? I know it’s been… damn, I guess it’s almost a year and a half? Since I’ve seen you last, but you were the sweet one…”

“They took Abby to be a poison taster and Miss Harukawa left.” Glen scowled, narrowing his eyes at Kaito, “Someone had to start watching out for everyone. Who else is gonna do it? Abel?”

“Hey. Don’t say it like that. Abel’s a good kid.” He was. And Kaito was convinced he was a smart enough kid too. The big guy just couldn’t seem to talk that well and had given up trying years ago. All the older kids… there was a reason they hadn’t been put on career tracks yet. Abel didn’t communicate, Piper got frequently and violently nauseous, Glen… well, Glen had a tendency to pass out under stress. One second the kid would be fine, then next, he’d just crumble. Maki was convinced most of their problems came from conditioning gone wrong, though… “Did something else happen? I mean, I’m not thrilled you’re lashing out at me, but...you held up really well back there, Glen.”

“...I-I’ve figured out how to breathe through it.” Glen said, before bunching up his fists, “I had to figure it out! Someone had to figure it out! You and Maki left us!”

“Maki came back for you. She was always planning to come back for you.” Kaito told him, thinking of the plan Maki had agreed to with Kaede, long before she ever got to Dicea. Kaito should have realized Maki was up to something long before they told him, looking back at it. In hindsight, it was crazy to think Maki would have just been… okay with leaving them. Kaito guessed he had just been so distracted with his own shit, that he had been willing to take Maki’s agreement to come with him at face value… “And here you are.”

“...the caretakers keep saying that today we’re gonna choose where we’re going and who we’re staying with…”

“Yeah.”

“...I don’t understand… what does that mean?”

“...Okay, so.” Kaito ran a hand through his hair. The kids had already been explained this, he knew, and he also knew that most of them, like Glen (like Tim hadn’t) probably didn’t actually understand what was being told to them. But, well, Kaito was ready to help explain this over and over again, and hopefully it’d either get through, or, well… they’d just manage to muddle through the confusion, as he said, “A bunch of people, people we can trust-” Kaito hoped, “-have been asked to open up their homes to you guys. You’re going to be meeting them today, and we’re all going to try to match you up with people without forcing you kids into just going wherever you’re told. No one is going far. King Aiichi worked really, really hard to ensure that. You’re all staying in the capital, though some of the families are a little farther out… I know one of the foster families owns an apple farm near here. They gave me a wolf coat once. Nice people. Honestly, I think you’d like them, Glen…” A kid inclined towards anxiety seizures and passing out might do well in the calm routine of a farm… “... and that family alone has volunteered to take up to three kids. That means, if you and two of the kids decided you wanted to stick together, and liked the family, you could go with them today.”

“...we have to make a choice like that in a couple of hours?” Glen asked, eyes wide, face starting to pale, “What about the younger kids? They’re not going to know what the hell’s going on!”

“Relax, relax, it’s okay. None of this has to happen right away. We’re just starting to do this today. You can sleep at the castle tonight, if you don't feel comfortable with any of the Diceans-”

“Good, cause I won’t-”

“But… but but but…” Kaito sighed, looked down at the kid. This next part wasn’t fair, but… “Glen, a lot of the younger kids are going to decide what to do based on watching what you and the other older kids do. Your younger siblings all have a chance, starting today, of getting their own rooms, and having their own toys, and getting yards to play in and going to school and learning things… things you never got the opportunity to have growing up. Things kids really… probably need, growing up. Adults in their lives determined to take care of them...this is an amazing opportunity for all of them. And they’ll give it up if they see you don’t trust it. If you refuse, so will they… and it’s really not fair to them, Glen.”

Glen stilled at this… “What if it’s a trick? What if I say yes and they all go and someone hurts them… then it’s my fault…”

“That’s why there’s a ton of eyes on this situation. None of you kids are going off into bubbles. You’ll have access to each other, you’ll have access to me, the castle, everything. If there’s any issues, you can literally knock on my door, and King Aiichi is keeping an eye on everything anyway. If any of the kids are hurt with their new caretakers? I’ll personally take responsibility, Glen. I’ll make it right… and Maki’s going to come back. If you can’t trust me to do it, you know you can trust her…”

“... why can’t things just be normal?”

“Because… because our normal was bad, kid. Abby went to become a poison taster, on our normal. Things will be better here. That’s why Maki brought you… You should go start talking with the smaller kids, now that you understand what’s going on. Tell them to start picking buddies. Try to ensure every kid has picked at least one buddy. I think it’ll be easier if none of you are alone… okay? Go, get it done, Glen. You can do this.”

Nothing had really been resolved but… there was something about Kaito talking as if it had been, that Glen found it difficult to argue with. Giving the prince a still somewhat overwhelmed and baffled look… eventually he just nodded, before heading off to Piper. Ready to explain to her what had been explained to him, the two older kids spreading it out from there.

Exhausted, Kaito went to Kokichi, and sat down next to his chair. “...I have no idea what I’m doing.”

The boy, Glen, didn’t seem...happy, or at ease, or even fully understanding...but he went out with purpose to another older girl. At least given some direction, rather than stiff unease. 

Kokichi reached out as Kaito came near, gently tracing his knuckles along the back of Kaito’s head. “Maybe...but you’re able to reach out to them. And that counts for a lot. Even someone who could explain all this perfectly is useless if the kids won’t listen to them.”

Sighing softly, Kokichi just...rested his hand on Kaito’s shoulder. “Hopefully it’ll be a little easier to understand, at least for the immediate stuff, when the foster families come by. We set out a big map and circled all the households, so the kids will know exactly where they and each other will be… The parents are gonna talk a little bit about their homes and themselves. Do you think there’s anything in particular they could do to reassure the kids? There’s still enough time to make a few more plans.”

“I don’t know,” Kaito said honestly, watching the kids. “They’re not bad kids. Hell, I’d argue most of them are great kids. But these are kids who are used to just… being taken advantage of and sent into terrible situations and just being okay with it. They just think this is some new flavor of all of that. I think it’s just...gonna come down to fire control, really. Like… like how it was when me and the others got here. Most of our problems were caused by ourselves. Just fixing a bunch of stuff like that when it shows up… fuck I hope we can trust all the parents Aiichi picked out…”

Sadly, Kokichi understood. All of the paranoia he’d been learning about his partners and friends would belong to these kids too, without the wisdom of age...though, perhaps without repeatedly being let down, too. It was...going to be a difficult time, going forward. The current term of school was coming to an end, though, so the kids would have some time to adjust before being shoved in with a bunch of Dicean kids. Hopefully, like Tim had, they would have the chance to make some friends before the next term. 

There was...something a little more unsure in Kokichi’s heart, but for everyone’s sake, he locked it away. “All of these people have been under scrutiny for months now… A few of them have other kids, and those kids were interviewed too. With all the knowledge we have? They seem like good people, willing and able to take in and care for and protect all these kids… And they weren’t the only people who volunteered. These are the best of the best of that group…”

There were limits, like only looking within Usott and its surrounding farms, people who had a history of combat, and...well, there was self-selection in the volunteers, of people who were happy to take in Luminous children, and were willing to put in the work to understand and help them. Who would be willing to speak up against anyone who would try and treat the kids differently because of that. 

It was...a lot of expectations. But they had done everything they could to provide the best chances for these kids. Kids who had been used as a bribe, treated as commodities. And they refused to let that treatment continue. 

It was just...going to be an uphill battle convincing the kids of that too.

Kaito nodded, running his hand through his hair and sighing. This was stressful and kind of a lot, but… well, it wouldn’t be a lot forever. “The kids are going to get used to this,” Kaito decided, glancing over at Tim, who… sure, still had some moments. But ultimately he seemed okay, these days… same with Kaito himself. It’d take time and probably a few hurdles but, well, there was going to be plenty of help to deal with those hurdles. And Kaito just had to trust that time would solve most of the issues. Time and patience…

It was another hour or so, and Kaito was starting to see that Glen had taken his suggestion seriously. The kids had all started to bundle up, talking in groups, working out who was staying with who. Two of the kids started crying and getting into a fight with each other, and one of the caretakers had gone to break it up and see what the issue was, and apparently they both wanted this third kid to be their buddy, the poor third kid just looking panicked and uncertain who to choose. The caretakers had then started explaining to the kids which families were taking how many kids, and started showing them the maps, ensuring that it wasn’t like none of them couldn’t see each other anymore… the ball really seemed to be rolling on that, though there was an notable tension starting to run through the group as the time got sooner and sooner to meeting the prospective foster parents. 

Probably mostly out of nerves, the kids old enough to remember him started gravitating towards where Kaito and Kokichi were sitting, starting to come up to Kaito and telling him about what had been going on for the last year or so. To be entirely fair to the kids, their biggest bit of news was that they moved to Dicea, which Kaito listened attentively to over and over, but some of the kids wanted to show off their new fighting moves they had been working on on the trip over, and some wanted to show off the toys they had managed to hold onto over the trip, a few had drawings… an upsetting amount wanted to know when Maki was going to show up, apparently more than a few of the kids having assumed she was meeting them here. Kaito promised them later, the promise feeling like ash in his mouth. 

As one of the kids was proudly showing off her drawings-- all in one color, which was the blue crayon she hadn’t managed to lose or break at the beginning of the trip-- Piper came up and, with a shy smile, said, “I asked one of the caretakers, and I’m allowed to go get it from the luggage carts. Can I show you the latest songs I’ve learned?”

“Sure, Piper, I’d love that! I’m so glad they let you bring it… here, let me walk with you. I’ll be back, Kokichi.”

As Kaito left to walk Piper to the luggage carts back at the storage of the castle, the kids, still in a sharing mood and now with no Kaito to show off to, moved their attention to Kokichi. 

“This is a Lemur.” one of the kids explained, holding up their toy, which in theory, maybe was actually a Lemur, once upon a time, though now was missing both its button eyes and a tail. “His name’s Spotty,” she continued to explain, despite the distinct lack of spots on him, and continued matter of factly, “The neighbor dog got a hold of him, so I think he’s dead, but I love him anyway. Wanna hold ‘em?”

...if she didn’t delay, it...might still be another month before they saw Maki. Regrouping with all the exchange students, organizing travel back through the mountains… Once they got past the mountains it would be easy, even faster than it had been the other way since they wouldn’t have to contend with snow this time. But...it was still going to be a while. 

An absurdly easy wait for him, since he knew she was returning, and...really, a month wasn’t all that long. But for the kids? A month was an eternity. 

...it was really cute, seeing all the things the kids wanted to share with Kaito. Drawings and rambling stories and toys they’d brought along… Kokichi remembered the stuffed dinosaur that Maki had shown him, and he felt his heart grow fonder as each kid stepped forward. 

When Kaito and Piper left for...oh! She might be the one who could play that crank violin! Well, Kokichi was definitely looking forward to that...but he waved them a brief goodbye as they left to go to the kids’ luggage, pleasantly surprised that the other kids who had come around turned their attention to him. 

Kokichi nodded in interest at the story of Spotty the lemur, smiling softly as he put a hand over his heart. “I would be honored to hold Spotty--great name, by the way.” He held the tattered toy gently in his lap, easy enough for the child to take back whenever she wanted. Looking it over, Kokichi hummed a bit, nodding to himself. “Ah, I can see you’re telling the truth--there’s a lot of love in Spotty, the kind of love only someone who really loves their toys can grant. Even dead, that’s something very special.”

The girl, who had explained the status of her likely dead toy with calm indifference… giggled a little at that. A wide grin showing off a few missing teeth as she said, “He’s a zombie lemur! That’s pretty special!”

As Kaito returned with Piper, the two quietly talking, Piper telling Kaito about the trip a bit, the lingering kids who hadn’t been interested in Kaito saw Piper with her instrument and, knowing what was coming now, followed her to the side of the garden, kids settling in, ready to just linger around to listen to music. A nice treat that the kids had only grown more fond of during the long trip through the mountains.

Going to sit with Kokichi again, the girl taking her dead lemur back and running over to go watch Piper, Glen going to sit next to her, taking his turn to hold one of the infants, who seemed to be waking up a little, fussing for food, which the kids who had infant duty were taking care of while barely thinking about it. All of them clearly practiced at it.

Kaito watched with some fondness as Piper started to prep, taking her instrument out of its case, double checking it…

Kaito’s eyes widened, recognizing the first few notes of the song, before snorting a little. Funny… either Piper didn’t know what the song was, or she had learned it for this moment. Either way was kind of cute, if maybe a little misguided.

“In the red tipped strips of city

Where the girls are so pretty

I first set my eyes on sweet Molly Malone

She bid me come tarrow

Through streets broad and narrow

Crying, ‘Cockles and muscles, alive, alive, oh!’"

As the other kids started to echo, alive, alive oh! Alive, alive oh! Kaito hummed along a bit, before leaning into Kokichi’s side and whispering, “I don’t know if the kids know this, but this was a revolution song, once upon a time. I figured I should say something, in case they do know, and are trying to rile themselves up… they probably don’t though.” Kaito shrugged, “It’s niche information, these days.”

Kokichi laughed softly, touched by the little girl’s enthusiasm. And as the kids gathered round for the performance, the older kids taking care of the babies...he understood on a slightly deeper level how Maki’s resolve was so strong. He wanted to give everything for these kids, and he’d only been around them for a few hours. 

Eyeing the hurdy-gurdy, trying to understand it a bit more, since descriptions really didn’t compare to seeing one in person, Kokichi was...stunned by the sound that came out of it as Piper began to play. It was soft and beautiful and so full…

He managed to temper his face into a smile, though, as Kaito clued him in on the song in particular. They really were Maki’s siblings… Leaning over slightly to whisper back, Kokichi hummed. “If they don’t know, I can see why she still would’ve learned it. This is really beautiful…”

“She was a street walker

And sure 'twas no wonder

For so were her father and mother before

And they both went for water

Through streets broad and narrow

Crying, ‘Cockles and muscles, alive, alive, oh!’”

“Alive, alive oh, alive, alive oh, cockles, and muscles, alive, alive oh~” Kaito sang softly, a small grin on his face, getting a little caught up into it. It was an old fashioned song, but Kokichi was right… it was beautiful. The sort of song that could stick in the ear and spread…

“She died of a fever...

And no one could save her

And that was the end of sweet Molly Malone

But her ghost sings her tarrow

Through streets broad and narrow

Crying, ‘Cockles and muscles, alive, alive, oh!’”

The kids, knowing this was their last chance to really belt out the chorus, got louder, a few giggling, a few of the more excitable younger kids getting up and, while not ‘dancing’ per se, jumping over and over again, shouting at the top of their young lungs,

“Alive, alive, oh!!

Alive, alive, oh!!”

“Crying cockles and muscles!!” Jaime crowed.

“Alive, alive, oh." Glen said grimly, quietly to the infant in his arms.

“Alive, alive, oh!!

Alive, alive, oh!!

Crying ‘cockles and muscles, alive, alive, oh!!"

Knowing the context for it, Kokichi could see how this was a revolution song. A declaration of an undying will, something that could get people going in crying out its chorus… But on its own? It was still a lovely song, still getting people together. 

As the tune ended, Piper stopping the crank, Kokichi gently joined in on the applause, not able to put much pressure on his hands, and not able to move them very quickly, but absolutely moved by her music, and wanting to convey that in celebration. 

And, the part of him that was the ever-moving prince hoped that she would be able to continue to share her music. For her siblings, of course, but for the world, however large that turned out to be for her. A beautiful part of heritage that no one would be able to deny.

-

It was the moment of truth, really. 

The kids might not realize it yet, but it was. The foster parents were all outside the room and getting a final debrief by King Aiichi. They’d be coming in to meet the kids soon, who were now all eating an early dinner, having spent most of the day chilling out in the room and the garden… well, ‘chilling out’ being a relative term. There was always that underlying tension, but… honestly, this was probably the closest to calm the kids were going to get. Worn down and full after a full day of playing and settling in and eating. A lot of the kids were now entertaining each other, somewhat older kids putting on mock spars for the younger kids, or telling each other stories, or more quietly playing with their toys with each other.

Tim had finally felt comfortable enough to bring in Chase, and a lot of the smallest kids were napping against the large dog, who had been endlessly patient at the attention and rough housing of the children, most of whom were fascinated by the sudden availability of Dog.

Kaito was proud of Tim. Tim had also been endlessly patient through all this. The older kids kept going to him for more serious questions, mostly questions talking around the idea that they were here as hostages, or prisoners, or slaves, or something, trying to goade Tim into admitting it. The younger kids had also come to him with questions, mostly being some confusion about if he was a Momota or not. And if not, why not? The other guy said you were Kaito’s son, but you have Big Sis’s last name… 

Essentially many five-year-old equivalent of ‘the fuck is your situation??’ which Tim had handled… again, well. For the situation. Kaito was proud of him.

Now Kaito was watching the doors, waiting for the next bit…

There were eighteen foster families outside and ready to meet with the kids. Originally, they had tried to find thirty families, just in case the kids found it better to split up, and even now all the families knew that the kids might choose not to go with them. But...well, the admins hadn’t gone through this project looking for convenience. The eighteen families were people they had all agreed would work best for the incoming children, and no more than that. 

Kokichi knew a few of them, more than just names and descriptions. Mr. Kiyoshi, who had once been one of the top kendo masters in Dicea, before a severe knee injury took him out of practice. The man was, funnily enough, a physical therapist now, and lived with distant cousins who ran a vaunted nursery. Apparently Mr. Kiyoshi had helped raise his nieces, and had a calm but ‘hey, do not cross him’ attitude that his nieces loved. 

Mr. and Mrs. Shion, who were a chemical engineer and ex-guard turned school counsellor respectively. 

The Sashigakubos, who were very involved in the Yeuxist temple, but were also some of the best mushroom hunters and cultivators in the city.

And, of course, the family he had met at the orchard, the Kiginkos. Kokichi had been surprised to see their name on the list, but only because they had met. More of an interesting coincidence, than anything. 

All of the families were willing to take in more than one child, but the amount more than that varied, and that had been vetted quite a bit to make sure they could actually raise how many children they offered to take well. 

It was...it was going to be something. 

Aiichi came back into the party room, raising his voice a little more towards his usual ‘leader levels’. “Everyone! Your foster families have arrived. They would love to start getting to know all of you, and that’s what the purpose of this evening is. Eventually, you will choose a caretaker to go with, but you do not have to make that decision quickly. Anyone who wishes to think more may stay in the castle tonight.”

“Please do not hesitate to ask whatever you like.” 

With a few more flowery words, the families started to slowly come in, spreading out just a little to not seem like a mob to the children, but not giving the kids no place to back up into. 

...the moment of truth.

It wasn’t a reassuring start.

The kids had been more or less politely and attentively listening to King Aiichi, sort of understanding that something was going on-- the foster family thing they were talking about again-- and that was all well and good, in theory…

But the second the strange, new adults started to file into the room, the look of alarm and fear in the kids’ faces was immediate. 

Smaller kids tensed for a moment, the kids who had happened to be closer to the doors looking frozen, before watching the adults approach, running to the legs of the older kids, hiding themselves behind them. The older kids in turn had these grim, anxious looks on their faces, a few of them trying to make themselves smaller, a few bigger. Glen was looking pale, little, telling white spots on his cheeks, his eyes dilating… but Abel put his hand on Glen’s shoulder and, using his other hand, tapped Glen’s temple, startling the guy out of his developing panic.

Glen started to breathe, and looked around. Piper was holding her instrument to herself like it might protect her. Hannah’s face was getting red, like she might burst into tears…

… Kaito stood up, grinning wide. “Mr. Kiginko, the Mrs. Kiginko! It’s amazing to see you!”

The kids watched as Kaito-- with an almost manic cheer to him-- walked over to the familiar faces he knew, the apple orchard son and his elderly mothers both there to start meeting the kids and see if they could convince a few to come home with them. Kaito, even though he was a little wary of doing this and really hoped the older women wouldn’t mind, put his arms out and drew Diane first into a hug, who looked startled but gave him a warm pat on the back, before moving on to Danielle, who grinned sharply and snickered at her turn.

“Sure, sonny.” She whispered into his ear, “Let’s give this a try.”

Louder, she said, “Prince Kaito! It’s lovely to see you, my boy! I hope you don’t mind, we’ve brought some apples to pass around. Neil, bring out the basket. Kaito, would it be alright for the kids to have some apples? They’re our most delicious ones, we really went all out…”

The kids looked on in more interest, some of the smaller kids, even after a day filled with good food, looked keenly interested in the basket full of brightly colored fruit. Prince Kaito knew apple people…?

“Oh, it’s not really up to me. The kids can have apples if they want them… Glen!” Kaito called back, watching Glen jerk again, like his whole body was shocked. Still up, still keeping his breathing. Good lad… “This was the family I was telling you about before! Why don’t you come check out the basket, see if it’s okay for your siblings?”

Glen tensed, knowing what Kaito was doing… not sure if he really wanted to be a part of this…

He looked around at his all of his siblings. All of them looking to him now, waiting to see what he would do. Was it safe to approach the new adults? Should they stay away? Could they have an apple?

…

...was his fear going to sabotage them?

Were they really going to get their own rooms?

Toys?

...were people actually going to take care of them?

Feeling his stomach clench with fear, reminding himself he had his knife in his jeans, he shooks the kids off of himself that were hanging onto his legs and went up to the family, glancing at Kaito before bowing to the strange, older people, mumbling, “Thank you for the apples.”

“Awww… what a sweet boy,” Diane said softly, before saying, “Well go on then. You can pass them around. They’re yours now.”

And as Glen went to grab the basket, the other kids started approaching. Looking curiously at the families.

Kokichi held his breath as the families came in and the kids retreated--though just for a moment, in the literal sense, since it was hard to hold his breath--and...like he’d been doing all day, Kaito was making himself the bridge between Luminary and Dicea. Greeting the Kiginkos personally, making an opportunity for the kids…

And after Glen took the basket, the other families took the cue, some getting down on the floor, making themselves more approachable, others similarly bringing out small gifts they’d prepared for the kids--mostly food, honestly, but some brought stickers and small, brightly colored slap bracelets and...just things that the kids could take without being loaded down by items. Some members offered smiles to the group, waiting to be approached first, while others offered hellos, and others still called out, asking who in the group was interested in this or that…

Kokichi watched carefully, still keeping an eye that no one got too aggressive with the kids but...it seemed alright. 

Kaito’s new role, at the moment, was to be just overly enamored with all the foster families, going to the ones he noticed weren’t attracting any kids and drawing them into loud, easy to overhear conversations, asking about their homes and their lives and latching onto anything that sounded vaguely interested to a child and loudly gushing over it. If the kids weren’t already engaged with something else, this would draw a few in, curious to see what Prine Kaito was so enraptured by, and once the kids started talking to the parents, Kaito would move on. 

You have a pet rabbit? Oh my god, pet rabbits are so cute! Kids, have any of you ever seen a domesticated rabbit before? This couple has the pet rabbit, let them tell you all about it, go ahead, ask questions.

You’re the house next to the fishing river? Fishing is so much fun! Did anyone start fishing during the travel here? You did? Come over here, come ask about their river, he fishes there all the time.

You’re a… an ex-Kendo master? That’s fucking cool! Can I introduce you to Hannah? Hannah, come over here, she’s been teaching herself fighting techniques for years, maybe you can join the local Kendo groups, Hannah.

Ex-guard, now school counselor?? Amazing! Can I introduce you to a kid named Jaime… Jaime? Jaime come over here, I’ve got someone I want you to arm wrestle!

Kaito wasn’t sure if the matches he was encouraging would stick. They didn’t have to. It was just important to get the kids actually talking to the parents, and start seeing what would and wouldn’t work. And as the kids and parents talked, it started to come out that the kids had already picked ‘buddies’. After a certain point, one of the caretakers had the good idea of telling the kids to hold hands with their buddies, so that the prospective foster families could get an easier idea of who came with who…

After a while, Kaito finally backed off, finally getting to the point where he felt more in the way than helpful. As he backed up to where Kokichi was, watching the group from a distance, he saw Glen and Piper both talking to the Apple Orchard family, Piper having traded holding one of her instruments for one of the infants, the two older kids having learned that the family had been open for fostering an infant as well as older kids and trying to work out if they felt comfortable giving the apple family access to one of their smallest siblings… Kaito wouldn’t be surprised if all three of them together ended up at the orchard. Kaito hoped that would be how it worked out. The Kiginko family really did seem like the kind of people Glen would do well with, and Kaito bet Piper would be happy with all that space to play her music as loudly as she wanted without disturbing anyone else…

“...I think this is going okay,” Kaito whispered to Kokichi. Hoping he wasn’t jinxing it, saying it aloud.

“I hope so,” Kokichi murmured back, though there was less uncertainty that he usually said that phrase with. The kids really were opening up, at least a little, with all the families, finding places of common ground, recognition sparking in some of the adults of what certain kids might need. Amused, Kokichi watched as Mrs. Shion put on quite the spectacle, trying to arm wrestle Jaime. Not totally pandering to the kid, but making it look like a damn good fight. 

“...they all deserve to have a good life… Loved and secure...wanted. Able to make their own decisions in life for where they want to go…” Kokichi reached out for Kaito’s hand, his own slightly trembling as he watched the kids and adults interact with still sharp, but slightly misty eyes. It had been a long day, but...every moment cemented how badly he wanted the best for these kids. 

...Maki would be really proud to see them.

Kaito took Kokichi’s trembling hand and, giving it a small kiss, said gently to him, “Yeah… but, you know, this is probably going to go on for a bit more. It’s been a really, really long day for you, ‘Kichi… and I’m sure our Shuuichi misses us. This is as developed as it’s going to be. You wouldn’t be letting anyone down going to get some rest.”

…

Kokichi sighed, reaching up with a shaking hand to gently dab at his eyes. “...alright. But just take me to the hall, alright? You stay here… I’ll ask someone to help me back up to our room. If you need to stay late, I understand.”

Kaito nodded, kissing Kokichi’s hand again, before leaning down and kissing him on the forehead, “My poor, sweet ‘Kichi...all weighed down by your big, beautiful heart… alright. Let’s go. If you’re sure you can get a hand upstairs. Let’s get you back to our Shuuichi.”

-

Kokichi ended up hailing down Denji, about to head back to their own room, and, with minimal teasing, cajoled them into taking him up to the third floor. He talked about the kids, about Piper’s performance and how tight knit the kids were, and Denji teased him about his wet eyes and exhausted look. 

They collected the armor Kokichi had been wearing under his shirt and asked if he needed help changing, but...really, Kokichi just wanted some time with his boyfriend. He didn’t mind sleeping in day clothes. At the very least, though, Denji wanted to help him back into bed, figuring that Shuuichi wouldn’t be up for it, if he even was in their room, and they knocked on the princes’ door, while Kokichi called through. “Shuu-chan? Denji-chan and I are coming in.”

Shuuichi had finished crying and being hotly angry with himself ages ago, and he just sighed at the knock, adjusting himself at the window seat as he watched the door open, giving Kokichi a small, embarrassed wave as he said softly, “Hi, Kokichi. Good day, Denji. Kaito’s not with you?”

Kokichi waved back to Shuuichi--Denji giving a nod, and not choosing to comment on Shuuichi’s downcast appearance--as Denji wheeled him in. “No, the kids are still meeting with the foster families, so he’s stickin’ around. He’s probably gonna stay until they head for bed, if I had to guess.”

And...Kokichi wasn’t sure if some of the kids would ask Kaito to stay through the night. But if that’s what he needed to do, then Kokichi supported it. Months of preparation had been for today, for what was happening downstairs… All efforts were focused there. 

Gently, Denji moved Kokichi over onto their bed and folded the wheelchair to sit on the other side of the nightstand, near enough to use, but not in the way. When they had gotten it earlier, the healers had practically demanded that Kokichi keep it around until he was walking alright again. No reason to bring it back downstairs. 

Giving the two a wave and a goodnight, the stylist left the couple to each other. 

Sighing softly, Kokichi gave his boyfriend a gentle, tired smile. “...how are you?”

“That’s meant to be my question.” Shuuichi sighed, going to sit by Kokichi, giving him a look over as he observed, “You look like death warmed over. Were you awake the entire time down there? It’s been… basically all day,” he observed, reaching over to run his hands over Kokichi’s forehead, frowning at the claminess. “Is there anything I can get you?”

Kokichi huffed a quiet laugh. “...I might’ve overdone it a little today. There were more idle moments, and...I might’ve dozed off a few times, but I really tried to talk with any kids who came near me…” 

Kokichi closed his eyes for a moment, enjoying the touch of Shuuichi’s hands. “...I should probably have a dose of my tea. I had one earlier, but it’s been a while…” He smiled slightly. “...it was cute. Two of these younger kids, Gabel and Mitchy, tried pushing my chair closer to the fire, ‘cause I said I was a little cold. Tim interfered, and we explained things, but...it was really sweet.”

Shuuichi smiled a little at that. “Mitchy, huh? I think he’s new, I don’t think any of us met him, but Gabel’s been there since he was an infant...I imagine if he’s big enough to think he can push a wheelchair, he must have grown a lot since I last saw him…”

Shuuichi’s face darkened, but he sighed and got up, going to set up the tea. Pouring it out, Shuuichi asked, “...did the kids seem like they were going to go with the foster families? Or do you think it’ll be a few days...I should have come down…”

Bringing Kokichi his tea, Shuuichi wordlessly offered to hold the cup, if he was too tired to hold the cup himself. “...I was embarrassed to be down there, and then I was more embarrassed when I left. I doubt any of the kids even asked where I was. I was never as close to any of them as Maki or Kaito, even… well, it would have been nice to speak to a few of them,” Shuuichi confessed, a look of regret on his face. “Did you meet a child named Glen? He would have been one of the older ones. He was in the detective track at one point, but failed out… then he failed out of two more tracks… he’s a lot like me. Smart, but with really bad anxiety issues, and his unfortunately are more unpredictable than mine…”

“Some of the kids seemed to be getting along with some, but...I don’t know. Even if they really like someone, I think they might wait a night just to be sure… Though some of the younger kids may not want to think it over that hard.” It was hard to predict what anyone would do in this situation, and then accounting that the oldest of the group were 12? He really didn’t know.

Kokichi gave Shuuichi a thankful smile as he held the cup, his hand trembling even as he guided it in for sips. And...well. He had hoped Shuuichi would’ve been there. And while some of the kids had mentioned Shuuichi, none had really asked where he was… 

Sighing, Kokichi was at least able to answer one question. “Yeah, Glen actually seemed to be the leader of the group. The others took cues from him, and...while there was...something of a misunderstanding, Kai-chan and Tim were able to clear it up. And once Glen started talking with the foster families, the others followed suit. He seems like a very capable kid.”

“...wary, though, so...you might get to see him tomorrow, if you’re up for it?” Kokichi gently offered. “And even if not...they’re all going to be in the city. There will be other opportunities to see them. I think they’d be happy, seeing you around.”

Shuuichi’s eyebrows shot up. “Glen? Is acting as leader? Wow… you never know what changes in a year…”

Nodding, the ex-detective simply said, “I know I’ll see them. I’d actually really like to see them. I just…” His shoulders deflated, looking tired and grim and full of regrets as he said softly, “I was embarrassed… The… the kids know what I looked like before. And I just felt like I’d see how much I’ve… morphed, in their expressions. I wasn’t ready to see it.”

Kokichi’s gaze softened as a question he’d had since that morning was answered. He had figured that Shuuichi was feeling overwhelmed in some way, but...that he was embarrassed about how much his body had changed… 

Instead of guiding the cup, Kokichi gently put his hand over Shuuichi’s. “It’s alright. If you needed the time, I’m glad you took it. They might be surprised, but...it could just be the same surprise of seeing someone with a haircut. Just that something isn’t exactly the same as how you saw it before.”

“I don’t know them as well as you. But I do think they’d really like to see you. We’ll just wait until you’re ready, okay?”

Shuuichi laughed grimly at that, giving Kokichi a somewhat reproachful look as he said softly, “I think I’ve changed a bit more than a ‘haircut’... but I understand what you mean. And… it’s just got to be something I have to get over. I can’t just… hide from everyone who ever knew me what I’ve…” Shuuichi frowned, using his free hand to gesture up and down to himself, a small scowl on his face as he said, “...done to myself. It’s not like people don’t know, even if they haven't seen me…”

“I just couldn’t handle it today. Tomorrow… tomorrow I’ll do better.” Shuuichi decided, having been reassuring himself of this all day. “I’ll go down to the dining hall for breakfast tomorrow. If any of the kids are still here,  I’ll see them there. It’ll be fine…”

Kokichi returned that look with a ‘you know what I mean’ look--and Shuuichi did--but he sighed softly, finishing up his tea. “...in fairness, a big bit of that’s my and Kai-chan’s doing too. But for every time Shuu-chan doesn’t feel ready...we’ll be there for you. I’m sorry we couldn’t go with you today, though…”

And Kokichi did regret it. It was just...important to see the kids too. 

“It’ll be fine,” Kokichi repeated. “They’ll be happy to see you. I got a lot of stories about the trip over, and explanations of drawings and backstories of stuffed animals, so if the kids are that excited to talk to a stranger? They’re gonna be over the moon to chat Shuu-chan’s ear off. I’m sure of it.”

Shuuichi snorted slightly, “Yes, I’m very aware. You’re both very lucky I love you. I definitely got the short end of this deal. I’m endlessly worried what my bodies going to just… layer? Like, my skin isn’t going back to the way it was, right? I’m too freaked out to ask anyone, I’m pretty certain I’m doomed though.”

Shuuichi was… somewhat joking. And it was easier, these days, to joke about it. These thoughts had genuinely kept him up many nights, but… it really was getting a little easier, over time, to accept everything that had happened. Which was why he had been so unprepared for this morning. “I really didn’t think I was going to be so affected. I went down there fully intending to stay. I just… felt this sudden shock of fear and it wouldn’t go away. I didn’t really need you guys to come with me, you made the right choice to stay for the children. I just…” 

Shuuichi idy waved his hand, looking frustrated with himself. “I just got overwhelmed. But, today wasn’t about me, and I’m happy you and Kaito chose what you did. And I’m glad Kaito’s still down there. Some things are more important, you know?”

Kokichi just gave his partner a glum smile, knowing Shuuichi’s insecurities, but along for the joke. It was a good sign when Shuuichi could joke around about his pregnancy. (And he wasn’t...100% on what to expect from Shuuichi’s side of things after his surgery. They had talked about his rest period, and that his hormones were going to be kind of wacky again, and that nesting in the form of fussing over Miya was a thing that might happen--but also maybe a form of intense depression that might have Shuuichi feeling like Miya was a mistake which...they were all hoping wasn’t going to happen. But...there were other things he supposed they’d be learning together.)

Nodding a bit, Kokichi sighed. “...they’re good kids… I really hope we can give them a good life here...that things will work out. I know they’re scared but...we’ve explained what we can. All there is now is to just...live, and be available if they need more help than their foster families can offer.”

“...one of the girls Kai-chan talked about before, Piper. She put on a performance--she did get to bring the hurdy-gurdy. It was really amazing…”

“Oh, I am actually really upset to hear I missed that.” Shuuichi said, though he said it with a fond smile. “Those things can be very pretty, if used by someone who knows how to play them, and Piper was getting very good at it, over the last few years… she’s got something better than talent. She’s got commitment. Every time I’ve heard her play, she’s gotten better.”

“I’m sure I’ll have more opportunities to hear her play though. I know my opinion on your father has often been… less than generous.” Shuuichi shrugged, “And it still sort of is. But the sheer lengths and efforts he’s gone to for these kids… especially to agree to keep them close by? I’m certain it would have been easier to send them to whoever would have them… I really do appreciate the efforts he’s gone to.”

“It’s the first time I’ve ever heard one, but it sounded beautiful to me. She sang a revolution shanty with it, and all the other kids joined in too. Kai-chan said he wasn’t sure if any of them knew where the song came from, though.”

Kokichi settled down more in bed, though he turned as much as he could to face Shuuichi, comfortable just...lying there with his partner, talking. He could probably do with...a lot of sleep, after today, but he wanted to talk for a while longer. 

“Knowing my dad personally...kind of sucks,” Kokichi sighed. But there was no resentment in it, and...really, there was something a little admiring in his eyes, though it was for what he was about to say, rather than the first part. “But as a leader? He’d move mountains for our people. While they may not feel that way for a long time, if ever...those kids are our people now. Vulnerable members of our community that need us to pull out the stops. And that’s what my father did.”

Kokichi sighed again, wrinkling his nose a little. “...Kai-chan’s paranoia got it part right. My father’s a rampant schemer.” 

“Heh. I don’t know if he’d be thrilled or horrified to hear that.” Shuuichi said honestly, shaking his head slightly. “I think he’s still trying to cope with the idea that everyone in the castle isn’t some nefarious villain. Though, it’s happening less and less often, for him to rely on that instinct… honestly, I really don’t know what Kaito’s thinking these days. When Cedar did… all the things Cedar did, it was Kaito telling me to calm down… I wanted to throw that woman out a window.” Shuuichi scowled.

He still kind of did.

Crazy, self-indulgent bitch.

Shuuichi scootched into Kokichi’s side, settling in beside him, resting. “...I’d ask if you want to sleep soon, but I’m actually stunned you’re still awake.”

Honestly, Kokichi was really proud of Kaito not being on alert around everyone all the time...but if he had been about to say anything about that, it was shut down hard as Shuuichi mentioned Cedar. Something...insecure and unsure and...hurt closing off Kokichi’s expression. 

She was still being investigated. He...didn’t really want to hear about it, but apparently she was very good at using loopholes and cases of plausible deniability to her advantage. 

Gently, Kokichi reached out to his boyfriend, resting his hand on his arm, just wanting to be close. “I should probably sleep soon...but I wanted to talk to Shuu-chan. I like spending time with you…”

“I like talking to you too…” Shuuichi said softly, “...even if sometimes I don’t know what to say.”

“...I do wish I had gone with you guys.” He said softly still, “It would have been nice, watching the kids with you. Were there lots of little ones? I know on the roster there were three infants… did they cry?”

“About a third of the kids were toddlers or younger…” Kokichi hummed, the corners of his lips turning up, happy just thinking about the kids. “The babies fussed a bit, and one of them started to tear up at one point but...the older kids were so gentle with them, Shuu-chan. They handled the infants like it was nothing. Makes me a little envious, honestly…”

“They were all so sweet...even if the older kids were really nervous. There was this little girl, I didn’t catch her name, but she told me all about this lemur plush she’d brought along…”

Kokichi huffed, grinning self-deprecatingly at himself. “I started tearing up, Shuu-chan, just ‘cause...look at them. All these kids…”

“Most of the older kids probably were already practiced raising the younger ones. The siblings at an orphanage don’t become close over nothing… a lot of the time, all they have is each other.” Shuuichi sighed, blinking slowly. “It’s different, if you get out early. The high priority career kids, the ones who start at five and six… we usually never go back.  Why would we? It’s always been what’s strange about Maki… the fact that she went back. They became an obsession for her…”

“... we have a lot of kids connected to us now, don’t we.” Shuuichi laughed lightly. “Maybe I shouldn’t be as alarmed by that as I am… or, maybe I should be as alarmed by that as I think I should be? But the truth is, I guess, that I’ve always had lots and lots of kids at least loosely in my life, just because of Maki. I wouldn’t have gotten as close to Yuta as I did, without that connection. I wouldn’t have seen lots of good kids grow up to be good people… and they do grow up, Kokichi. That’s the strangest thing about children. They get older, right before your eyes…”

“...I hope they’ll all be happy here. I hope Miya will be happy too. I think if the kids are doing well, that’s a pretty good sign that things are just going well in general.” Shuuichi decided, shrugging a bit, “Everything else is manageable.”

That was probably going to be an adjustment period. Having people other than each other to rely on. Learning to trust. And figuring out what to do when there were people who really weren’t deserving of your trust. Finding where you wanted to be in that middleground. 

“I’ve never really been around children, even when I was a kid too,” Kokichi admitted. “I worry a lot about if I’m being good to them. If I’m being patronizing or boring… But I’m happy to have them in my life, everyone that’s come into it… I want to be better. Kids are really good...and seeing them grow up is amazing.”

“...they’re the future. I’d say that’s a good place to put your first efforts.” Shuffling a little bit, Kokichi placed a kiss on Shuuichi’s cheek, giving him a soft, more than a little sleepy smile. 

“...yeah… though, if Miya pisses on me? I’m disowning her. She’ll have to figure it out in the woods.” Shuuichi joked, closing his eyes, “Work it out with her own kind, the… bears. And possums. And other things that piss where they shouldn’t.”

“Bears and possums piss exactly where they should. If I found a bear in the bathroom, I’d be extremely worried.” Kokichi smiled slightly as he closed his eyes as well, relaxing. “Unfortunately, pissing on her parents is a baby’s natural place to use the bathroom too. Kai-chan and I will take up the bulk of that though, if she’s in danger of disownment from Shuu-chan’s non-piss stained hands.”

“Bears and possums need to be taught better, Kokichi. I’ll take on Miya potty training, but we’ll have to send Kaito after the bears… you can handle the possums.”

“Mm… Have always had mixed feelings on possums. They look like they’re wearing little gloves and they carry their babies on their backs...but they eat cats. It’s nature, but it makes me too sad…”

“We can be biased towards cats. Cats are much prettier than possums. Possums have very scary teeth.” Shuuichi made a show of shuddering, “Scary, nibbling teeth, all elongated for even more effective nibbles. Terrible.”

“...is tomorrow going to be difficult for you?”

“Love cats a lot. I’ll always be biased towards them.” (...there’s a cat that’s biased towards you too.)

Kokichi was quiet for a moment, and it was only his lack of snuffles that clued Shuuichi in that he hadn’t fallen asleep. “...probably. I...really shouldn’t have pushed it so much today… But I wanted to be there…”

“It’s okay. We’ll help… you can always ask me for more help, if you need it, Kokichi. I know Kaito takes the bulk of the workload, when it comes to helping with medical stuff… but I always can. I don’t mind being there for you in the same way… I hope you know you can count on me.”

“I know Shuu-chan has bad days too and...sometimes that makes me hesitate, because I don’t want to ask more than he can give,” Kokichi honestly admitted, “But...you do help, and it means a lot to me. While physically this has been one of my worst recovery periods...you and Kai-chan have made it one of the easiest to live through. I’ll try to be more open about what I need with you, though.”

“Helping with my tea was good. It’d kind of suck if I missed a night dose…”

Shuchi smiled lightly, “I won’t lie and say I always make myself available. And some days would be harder than others… but, I guess I’m just saying, if you reach out to me, I don’t mind it. A lot of days, I’d like it. It’s nice to feel useful, especially to you.”

“...your tea really does seem almost miraculous, sometimes. The difference between when you’ve recently had one and when you need one is astounding… sometimes I wonder what Seiko’s doing now. I know she’s working on something, but I don’t think she’s working on pollen stuff anymore… for all her faults, she really is brilliant. It’ll be interesting to see what she does next.”

Feather-light, Kokichi brushed his thumb against Shuuichi’s arm. A wordless gesture of thanks, and a promise to be more open in the future. 

“...you know how Seiko gave me a check-up after I woke up? She said she’s...actually been working on trying to make a better version of my medicine. Part of how they got me stabilized so fast was because of that.” A pause, and Kokichi slowly opened his eyes, sleepy. “I’m alive because of the medicine she developed, but...I think I owe her my life again.”

Shuuichi… shrugged a little, before saying idly, “Be the good leader you were going to be anyway. She lives in your kingdom. She’ll benefit from you alive and well and doing what you’re going to do. Seeing your successes will be payment enough.” Pausing, “...and maybe another feature in the newspaper? Apparently that did wonders for her business.”

“I think the writers in the paper might object to my interference again,” Kokichi laughed, closing his eyes again. “But her accomplishments might warrant it on their own. She said she’s going to refine it a bit more before seeing how it works for me in regular doses. Ideally...it’ll give me a little more strength to get better faster and...might help me be a little more steady in life in general. But...she’s running a lot of trials on it. It’s been a while in development, apparently.”

“That’s good… Kokichi… I know Kaito puts a lot of pressure on you to be well. I know he thinks if you work hard and stay determined, you’ll get better… but I want to say that it’s not your fault when this happens.” Shuuichi said softly. Taking the hand on his arm and gently squeezing it. “Especially this time… but not in the future either. I know you’re trying your best. You weren’t the one who failed… sometimes these things just happen.”

Sure, the fact that it hit as hard as it did was definitely someone’s fault… but even that wasn’t on Kokichi. And Shuuichi suspected the heart attack was coming either way. Kaito meant well, but Shuuichi hoped Kokichi wasn’t taking every time his body failed as some sort of personal failing.

Again, Kokichi fell quiet for a moment. And when he spoke, his voice was...terribly soft. “...I don’t think...I’m ever just going to be...the kind of better Kai-chan is hoping for. I’m disabled. I have chronic illness. That...there aren’t…”cures” for that. Just accessibility.”

“...sure, there are things I can do to...help myself, or that make things hard, but…”

Kokichi scrunched his eyes shut tight. “...I really wanted to believe her...that I c-could be fixed…”

Shuuichi’s first impulse was to say that Kokichi didn’t need to be ‘fixed’... but that was a lie, and a mean one at that. The heart conditions weren’t a quirk, they were a problem. They hurt Kokichi, badly. It’d be amazing if they could be fixed. Gone forever, no longer an anchor sinking down Kokichi’s life.

...but just because something would be nice, didn’t mean it could happen. 

Some things can’t be fixed.

“...of course you did. We all did.” Shuuichi said quietly, “I wanted it to be true too. She said she had already done it… why would someone lie about that for no reason…”

Reaching out, Shuuichi ran a hand over Kokichi’s cheek, “And that’s especially why none of this is your fault. She took advantage. That was incredibly unkind, and it’s something anyone would have been taken in by. Especially someone trying so hard to be there for other people, like you are… of course we wanted to believe it…”

Kokichi trembled for a moment, his eyes feeling hot with tears. “I don’t understand… Everything was...s-so weird but...it wasn’t bad and...we...we were taking so many precautions… I was just waiting to not feel bad anymore and...quitting during a course is usually just useless… Healers always just did what they wanted with me be-because they knew better…”

Shifting, Kokichi tucked himself against Shuuichi, his muscles burning at the strain of movement and tension, but...he just wanted to hide in his boyfriend. Let it hurt from being taken advantage of and...the knowledge that he’d known all along. That there were improvements he could make for his health, but...there was no getting better.

He was aiming for eighty. Wanted to be there for his family and his country. But...there was only so much he could do. 

Shuuichi put his arm around Kokichi, with the very tips of his fingertips lighting running feather lines up and down his back, trying to ignore that sharp piece of anger inside of him as he said, “...healers are just people. And sometimes they’re brilliant and save our lives… and sometimes they’re selfish… or cowardly… and they make things actively worse… sorry, sorry.” Shuuichi sighed, closing his eyes, “That’s not my point… or, it kind of is, but more just… she wasn’t a healer, Kokichi. She was just a mean woman taking advantage of us.”

“And it’s not just on you. We should have been more on top of it. Everyone could see you were wearing down, and no one wanted to be the one to say this wasn’t going to work…I’m sorry. I should have been more vocal about my fears. Maybe then you would have felt okay voicing more of yours…” Shuuichi wished he had more to offer Kokichi. Something that would help. But all he could think to do was just… reassure Kokichi that this hadn’t been his fault. That Cedar had been the one in the wrong. That it was understandable Kokichi would have wanted to continue even past the point of obvious problems... 

More feather light touches, “It’s too much to say you should have known and done something about it on your own. We should have done more for you. I’m sorry, Kokichi.”

They were just people...but they were people who had dictated so much of his life. When you spent so much time in bed or in the med wing, when you couldn’t do things for yourself...he had just learned to shut up and take it. Or be shut up and take it anyway.

“...I just feel so dumb for believing it… Even if it was her fault. I just...wanted it to be true. To believe that feeling like that would be worth it in the end. That...maybe by the time of your surgery, I could really help take care of you...that I could be there for our family.”

...maybe things would’ve been different if someone had had a little more doubt. Maybe. 

“...I accept your apology. For what it’s worth… You guys are here for me now, so…” Kokichi sniffled softly, his body almost forcibly relaxing, unable to keep up its tension. “...I don’t think that came out right… But I love you guys.”

“...oh, Kokichi…” Shuuichi sighed, “You do help take care of me… you’re already there for our family. You’ve more than been there for us. You’ve put up with so much insanity that we brought with us…”

“Do you remember when we kidnapped that healer?” Shuuichi asked, a morbid sort of chuckle coming along with it, “Of course you do. That was insane… no one would have blamed you for giving up on us then. But you didn’t. You never even waivered… we were scared out of our minds, and you just handled it for us. Spoke to the guards, got us to calm down… all of that while in the moment you could barely move.”

“Everything that happened with me was ridiculous. Again, you never buckled under the stress. And that was after just having another heart attack.”

“Maki and I… we pulled you into a plan that I, for one, didn’t even believe in, and put the weight of holding it on your shoulders… I won’t say you didn’t buckle. But, at that point? Anyone would have…”

“And, for my sake… at least partly so, you’ve already done so many really difficult things. I know… I know everything that happened with Nao… I’m so sorry about all of that. I know you cared so much about her. But you stuck by me. You stuck with me through that, and through the pregnancy, and when Kaito lost his mind… you stood strong through all of that.”

“You take such good care of us. You have since I’ve met you.” Shuuichi said softly, “You don’t need Cedar’s help to do that. You already do.”

Tears started to leak through Kokichi’s closed eyes. He wasn’t sobbing or weeping, he didn’t have the energy to, but he was just...crying. Full of emotion. Hurt...and so, so much love. 

“You guys were freaking out…” he sniffled. “You would’ve done something you regretted, at least for the consequences. I was the only one who knew how stuff like that worked...I couldn’t leave you to flounder.”

“Shuu-chan was always my friend, before I loved him. Friends don’t leave friends to destroy themselves…”

“...I really messed up about that plan, but…” Kokichi sighed. Nao still stinging. But he didn’t regret his choice to stand by Shuuichi in the slightest. “...Shuu-chan’s special to me. I’m going to be beside him no matter what.”

He let out a more shuttered sigh, his arm weak but holding close to Shuuichi in what he could manage of a hug. “...I really want to. You guys mean so much to me…”

“Good...you mean a great deal to me too… which is why I feel very bad I’ve kept you up so late.” Shuuichi laughed lightly. “I know it’s not actually late. But still… let’s go to sleep, Kokichi. I appreciate everything you do to take care of me already… and like I said earlier. I want to take care of you more. Sleep’s probably a decent way to start…”

Leaning in, Shuuichi kissed Kokichi’s temple. “Also, I love you too. Thank you for trying so hard, for us.”

He did need to get started on some rest. While the kids would still likely need people around tomorrow, he’d probably be in and out of sleep for most of the day, with one space of more alert activity. Hopefully that would end up being breakfast, and he could see the kids again…

But. Rest. Sleep. 

“If that’s Shuu-chan’s advice, well, then I think I should take it.” Kokichi smiled a little, settling down in bed, letting his breaths start to deepen. “...I’ll always do my best for you...and I know I can rely on you too. Goodnight, Shuu-chan.”

-

It was late. Late enough that it might as well be the next morning. And honestly, the only reason Kaito came back to the room was to double check on his guys.

Tim was in bed. He had offered to stay with the kids, but Kaito had worried Tim wouldn’t sleep if he did that, so Kaito had insisted the kid go back to his room. Chase, however, had been left to sleep with some smaller kids who couldn’t be talked into going home with the foster parents that particular night. The kids just slightly too spooked when it came to ‘leave the group’ time, though Kaito had a good feeling that they’d have an easier time of it tomorrow.

Piper and the infant had gone with the apple family, Piper going essentially, as far as Kaito could discern, as a ‘scout’, wanting to see for herself what home life situation was. She was going to come back the next day and tell Glen how it went. Glen, in turn, was staying behind to watch out for the kids too skittish to go. 

Half the kids had gone, and like Piper had, it was mostly the older kids, scouting the scene before coming back for the younger kids the next day. It was a very pragmatic solution, and one Kaito wished he had thought of himself, earlier in the night, rather than watching all the various groups of children come to the same conclusion as the night went on. Would have sped things up…

The leftover kids had been offered bedrooms at the castle, but they had simply run out of time to use it. Basically all of the leftover kids had ended up falling asleep in the parlor they had been using as a party room, piling into each other in front of the fire, falling asleep on the floor and on the couch.

Kaito had held out until the last kid had fallen asleep, and when the room was full of sleeping children, Kaito had gone upstairs to check on Tim, Maki’s room, and then his guys. Who were fast asleep and so sweet looking and… sigh.

Kaito, as quietly as he could, took off his armor, changing into a sleeping shirt, only because he was sweaty and didn’t want to get it on his guys, before carefully curling in next to them. He’d give himself a couple of hours and then get up and get dressed and make sure they were both good and bring Tim to school and come back and watch over the kids and-

… phew…

… just a few hours…

-

The dining hall was bustling. Aiichi could close things down for a morning, but the next day the normal crowd had arrived, and it was an interesting sight for everyone involved. Roughly fifteen kids all huddled together in the far corner of the dining hall, mostly younger kids with a few older kids watching over them--along with the caretakers, who had volunteered their time until this was all sorted-- all watching the crowd with wide, somewhat amazed eyes. 

So many people… were these all nobility? Why were they here? They were still in the castle, weren’t they?

Holding open the door, Kaito gave Shuuichi and Kokichi warm grins, Shuuichi pushing Kokichi inside, as he said, “Alright! Breakfast time! Where do you guys wanna sit today?”

Kokichi gave Kaito a look, his head tilted slightly towards the kids. “Well, we’re probably gonna have some people who wanna talk, so we should sit over there, right?” 

He had the energy to sit up and talk without running out of breath, but...Kokichi looked notably tired today. More than the day before. He was paler than before, and there were deeper lines under his eyes, and, honestly, after breakfast Kokichi was probably going to go right back to sleep. But there was a soft smile on his face that grew as he noticed one of the items out on the breakfast spread. 

“Oooo, they made syrniki today!?” Looking back to give Shuuichi a serious look, Kokichi nodded to him. “That’s solid food I’m definitely eating. No argument. And I’m absolutely coating them in jam and cream. I haven’t had syrniki in ages…”

...he wondered if the kitchen had made them specifically for the kids, though he hadn’t thought it was a Luminary dish. Maybe just the novelty of something sweet and soft that were delicious no matter your age.

Kaito chuckled, murmuring, “Just felt like asking.” as his eyes darted around the kids. Alright… they were behaving. Good. Jaime was jumping in his seat a little, but that kid couldn’t stay still to save his life, so that was the best Kaito could hope for. He really hoped when Tyrone came back from spending the night at the Shion family, that Jaime could be convinced to trust that particular family. A scientist and an ex-guard, current guidance counselor? For a challenging kid like Jaime, that’d be perfect. Jaime would do well in a household that wouldn’t get overwhelmed with his more rambunctious traits.

And Tyrone was a good kid. He could get caught up in Jaime’s energy, but left on his own he was an easy-going sweetheart. They’d both do well in that household…

“Syrniki? Is that the pancake looking things?” Kaito asked, as the three men approached the far table, “Hey kids! How is everyone doing this mor-”

“Woah!” Jaime shouted, eyes wide, “Mr. Saihara! You’re super pregnant!”

Shuuichi’s eyes widened a little, his body tensing… but in almost the next second, he relaxed, rolling his eyes a little, as Glen reached over and thwacked Jaime in the back of his head, hard enough that the kid almost ended up face first in his plate, whining at the hit, “What?! What did I do!?”

“You don’t make comments like that, you idiot.” Glen hissed at him, before looking up at the ex-detective, bowing his head respectfully, “Good morning, Shuuichi. Congratulations on the baby.”

“Thank you Glen. It’s good to see you again.” Shuuichi bowed his head back, settling Kokichi’s chair in where it would fit and sitting down himself, looking around at the kids. Mostly the younger kids, who likely wouldn’t recognize him, and indeed, weren’t paying him a second glance really. Though, also, “Odette?”

The young girl gave Shuuichi a shy wave, smiling brightly, “Hello Mr. Saihara! You’re having a baby?”

“I am.”

“I didn’t think you could have a baby.”

“I usually can’t.” Shuuichi agreed good naturedly, “but I can now.”

Odette seemed to consider this, before nodding. “Congratulations!”

“Thank you.”

“Mhmm! They’re like...little cheese pancakes that are fried, so they’re a little crunchy on the outside, but soft and moist and fluffy on the inside. I could totally eat, like, a dozen of them, but...probably just a few today…” Probably because Kaito would insist on him having some fruit too, though...Kokichi might be able to get away with just eating the syrniki if his husband was too distracted by the kids…

Though, they all might be a little distracted. Kokichi stilled as Jaime called out, trying to watch Shuuichi from the corner of his eye. It wasn’t...derisive or anything, but…

But the kids were sorting it out themselves. Kokichi still didn’t know...exactly what to think about the rough treatment, but...well. His partner was set at ease. Enough to comfortably field questions. And it was sweet, hearing him talk to the few kids he knew. 

Getting a little help with his plate--he’d probably be able to feed himself, at least for a little bit, but going over to get food was a little too much at the moment--Kokichi gave Shuuichi a soft, adoring looking in between the kids’ questions.

Like Kokichi had feared, as Kaito was putting together his plate, he did indeed get the strange little pancakes his husband was eyeing… but the rest of the plate was fruit, and also, one over-easy egg. Kaito wanting Kokichi to have some protein in his diet and the soft, runny yoke pretty soft and small and easy to swallow… Kaito couldn’t make Kokichi eat anything. But it was on his plate, damn it. 

(Worst comes to worst, maybe he could convince Kokichi to eat a few bites of it and Kaito himself would eat the rest.)

Kaito, putting Kokichi’s plate in front of him, poured some water and juice for Shuuichi while his boyfriend collected his own plate, and then, situating himself, said to the kids, “So! Like I was saying! How was everyone’s night?”

“A kitty came and licked my hand and then chased a mouse through the air!” one of the younger kids shouted, looking extremely excited to share her story, her mouth half full of food. “And when I woke up Javier was crying!”

“I was not!” another, similar aged child shouted, looking red in the face and like he might burst into tears at that, “Stop lying, Lorene!”

“Did you have a nightmare, Javier?” Jaime asked, reaching over to give the younger child a small pat on the back. “It’s okay if you did.”

While, Glen shot the young girl a look, saying, “Don’t tell people if you find your siblings crying, Lorene. That’s not their business.”

Lorene pouted, “Well, he was…”

“Prince Cakishi? Can you not walk?” asked a curious looking four year old, kicking their legs. “You were sitting in that yesterday too.”

Fruit and eggs...or an egg. Kokichi pouted a bit as his plans of filling up on fried cheese cakes was dashed, but, like...he was still going to eat everything. Or as much as he comfortably could. Judging his grip on his fork, Kokichi was about to dig in, but…

...a dream of a cat visiting...hm. He...might’ve looked a little more interested in the young girl’s dream than even a patronizing adult would, but he sent a sympathetic look to her sibling. Sleeping in a new place, especially one you didn’t feel safe in, was really daunting. 

He turned to another child as a question came his way, and...honestly, he was a little surprised none of the kids had asked earlier. “Right now I can’t, no. A little while ago I got really sick, and some things that were easy for me are hard right now, so until I get better, I’m using this chair.”

Smiling a bit at the kid, he added, “It’s pretty comfortable, so I’m not complaining.”

One of the six year olds leaned in, a conspiring tone in his voice, as he said, “Lord Lampoon sat in a chair all the time, but you weren’t allowed to talk about it. People’d get mad.” 

“Lord Lampoon didn’t like to hear about people talking about it.” Kaito said simply, before grinning wide, “So! We excited about hearing how everyone’s night went? Most of them should be coming here for breakfast! I imagine they’ll start trickling in soon…”

Almost as if on cue, the doors opened, and the kids started pouring in, all bee-lining for the back corner table, while behind them came in their foster families. Everyone else in the dining hall watched this with open interest, the rumor mill and gossip slowly churning through what was rapidly becoming an audience. Because of Aiichi’s requests for privacy the precious morning, the Luminary kids arrival was becoming well known in the immediate area. Guess these kids were the horde…

Piper came up with an infant holstered against her chest, Hannah trailing behind her, and while she bowed to Kokichi and Kaito, she looked briefly confused… “Oh! Hello, Shuuichi!” she said brightly, looking him up and down, “I heard you were pregnant! Is it true she’s a princess?”

“Hello Piper… and, sort of. Not really, though, not for long.” Shuuichi said gently, as Piper scooted in beside Glen, “I heard you sang a song yesterday?”

“Molly Malone! I love that song.” Piper sighed, looking incredibly pleased with herself, though she turned her attention to Glen when he tapped on her shoulder.

“Well?” He asked tensely, “How’d it go?”

As Piper started to explain, Kaito listened in. A lot of conversations like the one between Glen and Piper were happening, the kids who had left explaining what had happened to the kids who had stayed behind. A few of the younger kids seemed happy to see the foster families again, who were all sitting together at another table, letting the kids figure themselves out. Some of the kids waved. Kaito felt like that was a great sign.

Kokichi wondered how much Luminary gossip was going to be spread around because of the kids. There already was plenty of gossip going around, especially in the wake of Byakuya’s surrender, but...it was different when the sources were actually from Luminary, and were the unfiltered observations of children. It would be interesting to see. 

He turned when he heard the dining hall doors open again, watching fondly as the rest of the kids came in, the foster families right behind them. And...no one really looked too stressed or upset or worried… The adults seemed at ease, getting breakfast for themselves and waving back at the kids that waved to them, no one splitting off from the group and going to talk with Aiichi or an admin or… So it didn’t look like there were problems on their end. 

And the kids?

Very carefully, Kokichi worked through the food on his plate, and he listened to as many conversations as his brain could sort out. Trying to listen out for worries and concerns, and just...trying to get a gauge on what the kids thought. If the transition to getting them homes was at least going to go smoothly. There were going to be rough patches, but...things seemed easier to get through when you had a stable roof over your head and consistent food on the table.

The big thing on the docket was that the promise of actual rooms was real, you guys!

It really seemed to be the biggest news the kids could share, and they were sharing it in detail. Most of the kids said that they’d probably end up sharing rooms with the kids they were going with, at least one other kid, but even still, having a room almost entirely to yourself? Was unheard of for indentured children. Even the career kids didn’t get actual room rooms until usually they were older and more established, the best you could hope for being some large, comfortable closets. These were actual rooms, you guys! 

The rooms even had their own closets! And the kids were allowed to put their own things into the closets! 

The kids left behind listened to this with something akin to actual wonder in their eyes. Even Glen looked taken in, as Piper grinned wide and the farmhouse had enough space that they’d both get their own rooms, saying it in almost a conspiring tone of voice. She herself wanted the room in the basement… oh, and they already had a daughter? A woman in her late teens… she seemed nice. They’d be expected to help with the chores on the farm, but from the way she describes them, it doesn’t sound that tough… no harder than the career tracks had been.

Glen frowned, “So, are we being raised to be apple farmers then? In payment for our rooms, we work the farms?”

Kaito frowned. That wasn’t… quite right…

...Kokichi had known from Shuuichi, but...not giving children rooms… Children being seen as...tools or investments, rather than people… He sighed softly, carefully taking a drink of his water. No more, at least. And these kids would have rooms and space to themselves.

...and responsibilities not in the way they were used to. 

Chewing on the inside of his lip, Kokichi gently spoke out to Glen and Piper. “This might seem like something of a weird question, but...if you guys could do anything? Like...you could choose any field to be mentored in, and you’d get in. Any in the whole world. What would you want to do?”

“Oh, um…” Glen frowned, “...um…”

Piper also looked a little lost, idly bouncing the baby on her chest when it started fussing, quickly calming it down as she thought, brow furrowed, “Um… anything? Not just the career tracks?”

“Any random job you can think of.” Kaito said gently. “Even if you think you wouldn’t be allowed to do it. Any of ‘em. Which ones would you want?”

Both of the older kids were clearly lost, Glen actually looking around, like the answer would be within eyesight… when Glen suddenly asked, “Could Piper say, like… being a musician?”

“No… thats stupid…” Piper said, eyes wide, clearly startled by that idea, “... like the kind at the theaters and stuff?”

“Yeah.” Glen nodded, “Would you want to do that?”

“...maybe?” Piper shook her head, clearly embarrassed at the idea of something that outlandish being her answer, “If I could have had any of the career tracks? I’d want to have been an administrative assistant. I tried going for it but I never got picked for any of the openings.”

“I’ll probably end up a housekeeper at this rate.” Glen shrugged, looking resigned, “At one of the nobles houses?”

“That’s actually…” Kaito laughed, “That’s actually not one of your options anymore… do you want to be a housekeeper to a manor or something?”

“I mean… no, but…” Glen looked at Kokichi, before finally saying in exasperation, “I don’t know? Can I say ‘healer’? If we’re saying anything, I mean…”

(A mind meant not to dream…)

After seeing Tim’s struggles, Kokichi wasn’t too surprised that the kids couldn’t easily think of an answer, but...well, they gave enough to work with, he supposed. He grinned kindly at Piper, something lighting up in his eyes. “Oo, I’m a fan of that, though I am very biased, since I work in administration myself… It would be cool if you were a musician by career too! My assistant, Nadya, is also a pro baseball player--people were always getting a little star-struck when she first started working here. I can just see people going speechless when they come to you for paperwork and discover the admin is a famous musician too!”

And, as Glen got there, Kokichi nodded. “Anything means anything. And a healer is a wonderful job--there’s a lot of ways to help people, but healing is such an immediate way.”

Getting those answers, Kokichi...hoped he wouldn’t be intimidating the kids off too much. “If you guys wanted to be apple farmers, then you’d certainly get a lot of experience, living on an orchard. But, if you want to be an administrative assistant, or a healer--you can actually be those things when you grow up. Just with the knowledge of having lived on an orchard.” 

“Chores aren’t payment for living somewhere.” Kokichi smiled softly, sympathetic to the kids’ confusion. “Here, you get your rooms and a place to live, food on the table and people looking out for your well-being...because you’re people. And wherever you want to go in life, whatever you want to do, your foster parents will support you. Parents have various reasons for wanting you to help out with the house, or the orchard in your case, and...if it helps? You can think of it as payment. But if you can’t help out, you won’t have to worry about not having a place to live. That’s unconditional.”

“It’s unconditional… but it’d be very impolite to refuse to help.” Kaito immediately added in, not really out of concern for Glen or Piper-- they were responsible sorts, he doubted he’d have to worry about them taking advantage of their foster family-- but for the benefit of the kids listening in on this. Kaito didn’t want to set any of the foster parents up for a bad time.

The kids all frowned at this, not displeased, but just… a little befuddled by all of this. Clearly ruminating over what Kokichi was saying, though not quite understanding it yet. Something they’d understand better with time. 

Glancing over at the families… Glen said quietly to Piper, “Do you think they’ll be unkind?”

At this, Piper paused… before shrugging. “They haven't been. And, really… how bad could it get? Worse than other people, I mean?”

Glen didn’t seem to have an argument against that. 

Later, when it came time for the foster families to start packing up for the day, offering to take the kids out to parks, to town, to stores, or back to their homes… the kids agreed. Curious to see where this was ultimately going to lead.

Before the kids left for the day, Kaito and Shuuichi both talked with all of them, insisting and then insisting again- if anything was wrong? If they were afraid, or frustrated, or needed anything and didn’t know who to ask. They could always, always come to them. Their door was always open to any of the kids, for any reason. 

You are not alone.

Kokichi smiled a bit at his husband’s add on. He hadn’t wanted to talk too much at length and confuse the kids more--he already felt like he’d overdone it--but...that was a concise way to put it. Parents could have a lot of reasons for asking their kids to do chores--to teach discipline, to teach life-skills, just to make things that needed to be done go faster, and it was good to take care of the place you lived because you lived there and it was nice to live in a nice place...but it boiled down to, yeah. It’d be impolite. It was...kind of up to the parents’ parenting styles how they explained the ‘whys’ to the kids. 

By the time breakfast was wrapping up, the parents offering to take the kids out or home, and Kaito and Shuuichi imparting their last bit of reassurance--until the next time they saw the kids, of course--

“...snn...ff...fflf…” 

Kokichi was lightly dozing in his chair, most of his plate--and including the fruit and egg--eaten but… He was just worn out from the day before, and getting up for breakfast was about his last push. He would’ve loved to offer his own assistance to the kids too, but...hopefully he’d just get to prove it if they came by later. 

“He is… out.” Kaito snorted, leaning down in front of Kokichi, poking his cheek, “Out out.”

“Don’t poke him, Kaito, that’s not nice… maybe he’ll wake up if you put sugar under his nose?” Shuuichi considered, “Some of the syrup? Dab it on his nose?”

“Now who’s being mean.” Kaito snorted, shaking his head. “I’ll take care of the plate, could you roll him to the bottom of the stairs? I’ll bring him up, just wait for me there.”

“Alright then… come on, Kokichi, let’s go.” Shuuichi said softly, bringing his snuffling boyfriend to the stairs. 

After a moment, Kaito was there, and after getting the chair latched on to the railing, Kaito pushed, moving slowly to account for Shuuichi. “You going to spend some time in your study today?” Kaito asked as they headed up to their room.

“If you don’t have anything you want to do today, then yeah, I’d like to spend some time in there… do you have anything you want to do?”

Kaito shook his head, “Nah. I’ll stay in the room with ‘Kichi. You enjoy the study, handsome, I’ll work on my figurines or something.”

“If you’re sure… I really can watch him today.”

“I know you can, I just don’t have anything else going on. Really. It’s fine.” Kaito leaned over to kiss Shuuichi on the cheek, “I’m fine. I promise.”

Shuuichi nodded. Alright then…

-

Things were...steady. The kids got settled with their foster parents, Kokichi was slowly getting better day by day as he worked through physical therapy with Kaito, and, in the back of his mind, though it was more at the forefront at times, he knew every day meant Maki was a little closer. 

Kokichi had had a talk with Aiichi about Hanami, and considering that he still wouldn’t be at his best for the festival, they’d agreed to have Kokichi skip out on his prince duties for the festival, and just...enjoy it with his family. For however short or long they wanted that to be. And...Kokichi was excited for it. 

He’d also been doing better flexing his empath strength little by little. As he rested and his body healed, so was his mind, and Kokichi found himself able to do a few more exercises almost every time Alter Ego came by to chat. He’d gotten around to making that sign-in sheet on his door. 

Now, Kokichi was strong enough to not just view memories, but spend time in constructed areas, and at the moment he was basking in the sun, his legs dipped in a pond. Not the one they had gone ice skating on during the winter, but one a little farther out, closer to the southern woods. It was spring as well in his mind, and Kokichi was just...enjoying nature for a little bit. Excited for the future.

She didn’t actually… know why she was there.

But she knew where she was… sort of.

The place was her mates. Somehow? Like… the actual place. This place was him. The grass beneath her paws, claws stretching out and digging into the dirt. The wind against her back, rustling through the standing ends of her fur. The trees that littered her path, and somehow, even the shadows that hung over her… all were somehow him. 

A wide, gaping maw of sharp, large teeth split wide into what could generously be called a ‘grin’, a deep, low gutteral sound of excitement in the back of her throat erupting out as her eyes, a rich, light brown , just a shade lighter than the dark brown fur of the rest of her form, focused, tail swishing behind her a she lowered her shoulders towards her paws, readying…

She leapt. Running full force at her mate.

Kokichi was doing better by the day. But he wasn’t where he was before his attack, and even farther from how well he had been doing before Cedar. 

So...it was only a few moments before projected impact that Kokichi’s eyes widened, sensing...something else. Something, someone besides him in his mind. Faintly, he was worried that Chibi Kaito hadn’t noticed, but that was just in the back of his mind as he whipped around, pulling his legs from the water and--

Was tackled by a giant wolf.

Kokichi barely had time to get a note out of a scream before he was tackled into the pond.

Whoops. Overdid it.

Swimming to the top of the pond, the wolf shook her head-- Kokichi can’t swim-- before looking around, alarmed. Finding him thrashing in the water, she bit at the back of his shirt and, being a very large wolf, had zero issues dragging him along the water, back to the short of the pond, dragging him onto it. 

Whining a little, she let him go, going back over to his side and giving him a once over, before leaning down to give his cheeks a few apologetic licks.

Then, noting his shirt had risen up around his neck a bit and looked uncomfortably like it was choking him, Akane decided to reach out-

-and the woman’s hand quickly fixed Kokichi’s shirt, grinning wide down at him, dripping wet and entirely naked, she said, “Sorry, ‘Kichi! I got overexcited there! You okay?”

Kokichi knew he wasn’t in any real danger--from the water, at least--but it was still instinct to panic and thrash as he hit the water. A part of him knew he just had to change the scenery, or float out of the water, or just give himself the ability to breath, but...for the moment? All that was overshadowed by--CAN’T SWIM!!! 

As he splashed and thrashed, though, he felt a tug at the back of his shirt and...was pulled back to the bank. Sputtering, Kokichi tried to shake his hair of water, get it out of his eyes and...felt a dog’s tongue on his cheeks. 

...then felt a hand and an unfamiliar voice greet him. 

Kokichi opened his eyes and immediately averted them, making a bit of a “Guh!” sound before he coughed, getting the last of the water out of him. ...what the hell was going on??

Peeking over at the woman--keeping his gaze up, of course, even if she didn’t seem bothered--Kokichi hesitated before speaking. “...you’re...an Empath werewolf? Who...are you?”

“Heck no! At least… I don’t think so? Doesn’t sound right.” Akane shrugged, before snickering, reaching over and ruffling Kokichi’s hair as she said, “Aw, babe! I’m sorry, I’ve got you all wet. Hold on, hold on, I’ve got you…” 

Considering her options for a moment, Akane sort of felt herself… reaching out for something that felt ‘hers’. Like… entirely hers. Something that would help that she had claim to, even in this place…

And after a second, she was draping the wolf coat Kaito had been given ages ago over Kokichi’s hair, upside down so it was fur against him, and with enthusiasm started to dry out his hair, before moving onto his face and shoulder, taking it off Kokichi with a flourish as she said, “There! That’s a bit better, yeah?”

Just as idly putting herself in the coat, leaving it open without much thought, and still squatting down next to Kokichi, she finally got around to asking, “What’s an empath?”

...babe?

Sure, people used that term, like, neutrally, but… Kokichi didn’t know this woman, assumed she was...some Empath in town that had decided to visit him--and had gotten past all his alarms and defences, somehow--but...something about how she spoke…

Kokichi found his train of thought cut off for a moment as the woman vigorously started drying him off, and…

...stop taking chances. You’re only hurting yourself and others. 

Kokichi took a breath, and the void returned. He reached out… Nothing had been damaged and...no other anomalies… It was just this woman, she wasn’t a projection for a distraction--at least as far as his abilities let him see. And her intent...was written all over her. 

...love. 

The pond and grassy bank returned, Kokichi looking at the woman just...confused. “...that’s kind of a hard question. But...without knowing it...you shouldn’t be here at all. How…”

His eyes narrowed a little. “...why do you feel like my husband?”

Akane’s grin widened, raising an eyebrow, about to say, uh, obviously because I’m…

But the grin dropped away uneasily. Looking down at herself. 

...hm.

For one, she had a bangin body. Holy shit.

...but she had always had this body. Well, since puberty hit, anyway. That wasn’t a surprise… except it was. It was very surprising. It wasn’t…

...his?

Akane frowned, scratching through her hair and down the back of her neck, before saying honestly to Kokichi, “I wanna say I am, but that doesn’t sound right either… I… hold on! Give me a second! Gotta get my head right!”

Huffing, Akane stood up, and with a wide, predatory stance, she started walking back and forth, eyes closed in concentration, a small, annoyed growling sound at the back of her throat…. Back and forth… back and forth…

And then, grinning brightly, she popped her fist into her hand and said, full of confidence and certainty, “No idea! But, I do have two sets of memories, and both of them are true! And that’s just how it is, I guess! … oh! I guess we haven't actually met yet? Ha, that feels weird to say… but that’s kind of cool! I get to reintroduce myself to you! That’s exciting!” 

And, getting down onto her knees, reaching forward and taking Kokichi’s hands into hers, Akane grinned brightly at him, all teeth, “Prince Kokichi Ouma! My name is Akane Owari! And…” her eyes brightened considerably, her whole body almost seeming to inflate in excitement as she realized, she now had an opportunity for all sorts of new first impressions, “...I think you’re amazing! Would you go on a date with me!?”

...she was confused too. And...it wasn’t feigned. While Empaths had many more tricks up their sleeves in the mindscape, if they weren’t actively trying to hide? Kokichi found it almost automatic, feeling if someone was being sincere or not. Sure, he hadn’t had a ton of exposure to many people like this, but...he had a feeling. 

As she declared her confusion and got up to sort it out with herself...Kokichi watched, just baffled. Seeing...so clearly a lot of his husband’s mannerisms and just...way of being in her, but also...a little different. She was, but she wasn’t…

...what on earth was going on? Kokichi knew what Kaito was like in his head. He was himself, Kaito at his fullest without any hiding, especially with Saint Madison cutting through his conditioning…

...He was more free. Alter Ego and Temp had said there were things in Kaito’s mind that didn’t quite make sense… But why would someone be trapped in another person’s consciousness? Kokichi didn’t know for sure, but it seemed like something that would be a great deal more distressing that his husband or this woman displayed…

...she was Kaito, but not.

Kokichi regarded Akane as she took his hands, recognizing her excitement, her smile. 

And he laughed. 

Not unkindly, but just...fond and taking in the absolute weirdness of this whole situation, paired with that what Akane asked of him was a date. She really was…

Gently squeezing her hands back, Kokichi raised an eyebrow. “In a way, I’d say we’ve already gone on a few dates. As weird as that is for me to say to a woman…” He shook his head a little, still smiling. “Akane, how did you even get here? You’re in my mind right now, and I know Kai-chan doesn’t have the ability to do that.”

“Oh, riiiight. Shoot, that’s right, this isn’t gonna do anything for ya, huh babe?” Akane frowned, looking down at herself, pouting a little before she crossed her arms and huffed, “I finally get a proper mate, and he’s gay! Offfff course! Just my luck!” 

But as she said that, she laughed, sounding genuinely amused by this predicament, before shrugging, “Ah well… do you think Shuuichi would be interested? Our handsome man might not appreciate his own chest, but I get the feeling based on his history our guy might be a boob man. Damn… but I don’t look like this out there...well, not just like this, anyway. I’ve been working on my pecks! I’m not that far off!” Akane chuckled, still looking down at herself admiringly…

Though, considering Kokichi’s question… “I honestly don’t know? I…” 

She sat down next to Kokichi, putting her chin in the palm of her hand as she leaned her elbow against her knee, thinking about it, “...I remember… I… no, he… he started… ah geez, Maki’s gonna call me pathetic… he started crying? Not that long ago… and I can’t go to the shrine. I can’t go to the shrine. If I go I won’t come out… but ‘Kichi… I can’t do anything for him… he’s so sick, and people keep hurting him, and I can’t do anything… how can I protect Kokichi!?”

Akane said this, her voice getting lower and lower, a viscous growl coming out through the base of her voice, her skin starting to morph, to grow fur, as her nose and mouth elongated into a snout, somewhere between wolf and human and fur and claws as she growled, “I have to do something…”

“...and I kept thinking that so hard, that I… that he… he felt like he was burning up and… an annoyed sounding woman said fine, and then… called out to some… itty-bitty me?” Akane frowned, “But I wasn’t aware of all that. I just kind of vaguely remember that part in hindsight. And I woke up here. Just… wanting to be close to you. Wanting to protect you.”

Shrugging, she laughed, “Though, you don’t seem in danger. I’m not really sure what I was expected to do here.”

Kokichi gave Akane a slightly apologetic look. He’d meant it when he told Shuuichi that a guy having boobs was all the same to him but...he didn’t know. It was all just body parts, but it felt different between a man and a woman and anyone else in between or otherwise. He just liked guys. 

But just because he wasn’t attracted to women didn’t mean he couldn’t have a connection with them, and considering Akane wasn’t, but was Kaito? ...well, they’d see. 

Tilting his head to the side, Kokichi giggled a little. “I’m not sure--Shuu-chan is sometimes hard to predict. But I think he’d have more of a reaction to you showing up naked...though he probably wouldn’t be as lucid if you showed up in his mind. He’s not an Empath, or psychic in any way I could tell.”

As Akane explained how she’d gotten into his mind, though, Kokichi’s jovial mood dampened. Kaito was crying? Kokichi knew Kaito was just...up sometimes at night. Not necessarily due to nightmares. But if he was crying...couldn’t go to his shrine…

At first Kokichi thought Akane was frustrated with her lack of ability to help Kaito, but… His eyes widened. ...they were worried about him. Kokichi knew Kaito was frustrated, but...to tears...having it tear him up inside…

Kokichi reached out to Akane, unconcerned even with her...morphing with her emotions, and put an arm around her shoulders, even as he sighed a bit as the mystery was solved. “Saint Madison… She is connected to me, so I guess that’s how… I guess this is better than Kai-chan just dealing with it himself...maybe. Should talk to Chibi Kaito about this though...can’t just…”

Another sigh, and Kokichi cut off his muttering. Shaking his head he offered Akane a gentler smile. “Well...being here is doing something. Maybe you seeing me alright will soothe you guys when you go back? That’s my best guess anyway…”

“...to answer your first question, though…” Kokichi scooted back to the side of the pond, dipping his legs back in, though he patted the space next to him for Akane. “An empath is a kind of psychic. People have really varying degrees of the ability, and, like, the feeling of empathy? Is named after the ability.”

“For me, it means I can...sense people’s emotions, and at greater levels of powers, look through memories and understand the essence of a person.” Kokichi sighed slightly. “...even greater than that, I can alter the essence of a person, but...I never want to do that. At most, I create...vestiges of my own power to leave with people, to protect them from manipulation and attacks. ...if that makes any sense?”

“I’m not sure that I’m… not still Kaito?” Akane frowned, not sounding at all confident, as she tried to explain, “I know I’m Akane. I’m a werewolf and the future leader of my pack, at this rate. If our current alpha dies now, I’d be pack leader, because I’m strongest… except… except none of that is true anymore. I don’t have a pack anymore. I’m… not actually me anymore… it’s really confusing! But I know I’m Kaito. I’m just also Akane. Or, Kaito’s also me? Or… it’s like I’ve melted into someone else's life. Mixing and melding to the point that differentiating it is kinda… pointless? To call it two different things? ...Heck, I don’t know! But I don’t think I’m separate. I’m just…”

She considered the right word, and settled on making the motion of pinching her fingers together, before making the exaggerated motion of pulling something in the air apart, as she said, “Stretched. Right now. Or something? It’s weird!”

Though, listening to Kokichi’s explanation…

She laughed, a loud, barking sound, as she slapped Kokichi’s back, “You’re kind of weird too, ‘Kichi! Heck, my mate has super powers? That’s pretty cool! Who’d have guessed it! And, wow, you can… what, change people? That makes sense. If there was anyone I’d trust with an ability like that, it’d be you, ‘Kichi. That’s so exciting!”

Then, looking curious, she asked, “Have you altered me any? Are you why our anger issues are getting better?”

...maybe they would benefit from talking to Alter Ego. If there was anyone who knew about being many people but also yourself, it was them. Though Akane and Kaito’s situation sounded a bit different still…

...maybe it wasn’t the...best idea to explain his situation to a part of Kaito that was aware. But...well. They’d figure it out. 

Kokichi smiled a bit, kind of flattered and proud from Akane’s praise. Even if this had consequences...it felt nice to be open with his husband about this. And to have her reaction be so positive. He supposed it was a little different, since Akane was a werewolf herself, but...when he considered telling Kaito, there was a part of him that was worried that he’d be scared and would...think Kokichi was a demon, or something. 

And even if she didn’t seem mad to ask it...Kokichi shook his head, still a little apologetic. “I didn’t change you, but...I did leave that bit of my power. We call them defences, though the one I made for you was...different that what the Empath community had seen. The woman’s voice you heard? That was her. Saint Madison is...kinda living in your head, made in part by both me and you.”

His brows drawing in, Kokichi took a breath, trying not to let himself be overcome with anger, though his expression darkened. Even all these months later, it was just...infuriating. “...Tengan’s an Empath too. He had...created this thing called a tether, which means he knew what you were feeling all the time. And the sick bastard just...fucked with you through it. So...it’s kind of a long story, but essentially, I ended up creating Saint Madison to kick him out of your mind, and make sure he’d never come back.”

“...and...kind of as a result of her purpose...she started breaking your conditioning…” he hesitantly murmured. Akane was a little different. But so much the same. And Kokichi...wasn’t sure if she could handle acknowledging that she had conditioning. 

Akane had, halfway through the speech, started playing with the grass. Pulling it out, feeling it’s smoothness, smelling the breaks. Mmmmm… this place was nice. Not as nice as her own forest, but Akane could admit to herself she had a bit of a bias there…

And, sighing with a loud, huff, she flopped backwards, laying on the grass, her coat loosely on her, as she said, “Tengan did all that, huh? Well, that explains some things, I guess… ugh, that pisses me off!” she decided, kicking the ground a bit, a frustrated look on her face, “He’s lucky I never got my hands on him! I remember getting this stench of him, all the damn time… but I could never get out of the forest to hunt it. Damn. Damn.”

Sighing, stilling, she closed her eyes and growled, “He’d just be… in my nose… I could smell him, but I couldn’t find him… I thought I was going crazy. I tried to ignore it sometimes, but I knew he was there… the scent of him would be everywhere, fucking pissing me off… ugh, still pisses me off…”

And then she opened her eyes, grinning bright up at Kokichi as she sat up and, reaching out, snatched him up, pulling him into a hug as she said, “But you kicked his ass, babe! If anyone was going to come to my corner, of course it was gonna be you! Man, I wish I could have seen it! Did he cry? I bet he cried!”

Laughing that big, barking laugh of hers, Akane squeezed Kokichi against herself… before sighing. 

“... something terrible happened to me, huh?” Akane sighed, sounding more annoyed with the revelation than anything, “I don’t know the whole thing. I can feel pieces of it… but not the whole of it. The others…” she frowned, “Others? Yeah… the others probably have the other pieces. But it feels muddy… I’m too stretched out. I don’t think I can… stay like this forever. As in, Akane, here… this isn’t really who I am anymore. It definitely was once… but Akane died a long time ago. And then… I… she… someone asked me for help…”

… she shrugged, “It’s too muddy. I have no idea. But! It sounds like I needed help, and you came to save the day! Hell yeah, stud! Way to look out for your mate! Thank you!” Akane laughed, hugging him tighter, before giving him a kiss on the top of his head, “You sure I can’t talk you into a date? I could take you hunting! We can hunt itty-bitty me!”

Forest… Looks like his guess had been right. But… 

Kokichi sighed, his eyebrow ticking in annoyance. “People think in metaphor. That’s why we’re sitting at a pond. But the reality is that...your mind is physical. So if an Empath is messing with you? No matter where it seems you are, if they’re strong and determined to be awful enough, they can be everywhere, because the physical space of a mind is finite.”

“And you know better than me how awful Tengan is…”

Another huff, but Kokichi gave Akane a softer look. “He definitely looked like he was gonna shit his pants. Though...I didn’t fight him alone, and it was one of my Empath friends that was better at the whole ‘intimidation’ thing. One day, when I can tell you...all of you, I guess, when we’re both awake? I’d really like for you to meet them. Even if you’ve sort of already met one.”

And maybe Alter Ego would have some perspective about how Kaito and Akane...were. And, Kokichi amended as he raised his eyebrows, maybe others too. ...all Kaito, but...also once others? People who had already had their lives… Temp said that souls were reborn, but...Kokichi didn’t think it was like this, usually. 

...one day they’d figure it out. 

Kokichi giggled softly as he was pulled into a hug and hugged Akane back, feeling...just a surge of familiar affection as she kissed his head, and in response, he leaned up to kiss her cheek. Different, but the same. 

“We both know I don’t have it in me to do something like that,” Kokichi snorted. “And this is more of a meet-cute anyway. Dates come later. But...especially if you can’t exist like this for long, I wanna make sure you get back alright, okay? Think of it like me walking you home.”

And if Madison had sent Akane here, then she could deal with him making sure Kaito’s soul wasn’t going to splinter. More than enough reason to pay his husband’s mind a visit. 

Akane snickered, “Such a gentleman. Alright! To be honest, babe, as much as I’m enjoying this? I feel a little… off, not being in my forest. Less real out here, than I do in there. So, yeah, I think I’m ready to go back anyway…” 

Her face softening a little, she asked, “You’re sure there’s nothing I can do for you? I get so… worried about you. You’re my mate, and a part of my pack… I’ll give anything to protect you. I just don’t know what I can give…”

Giving her one last squeeze, Kokichi got up from the ground, offering Akane a hand as he nodded slightly. It was...really something unusual for a non-empath to show up to visit an Empath, not even to mention Akane’s whole unusual existence. In a way, he was glad that Saint Madison had sent her to him, but...it was probably good to keep Kaito all together. 

And just like how he wanted to protect Kaito, he wanted to protect him too. 

Kokichi sighed softly, a small smile playing at his lips. “You’ve already given me the world, Akane-chan. And...if you wanted something a little more specific and substantial? Helping me with my physical therapy is huge. Your physical help, of course, but every piece of encouragement and praise...it helps me keep going, even when I get embarrassed or frustrated. And even though it’s hard, I know all the work is going to be worth it, because you’re worth it. I really want to go out dancing together again… And I know I could do it from a wheelchair too, but...maybe it’s just ableist of me, but I want to be able to be spun around and copy your footwork and hop and be really embarrassing until you teach me a new dance.”

“And just...being there for me, you know?” he grinned, the very air turning sweet with gratitude and affection. “Everything you do means so much to me. So please don’t feel like you’re not giving anything to me.”

Kokichi took a breath, grounding himself. “...Cedar was cruel. Maybe...things could’ve been different. But...you are protecting me.” Gently, Kokichi took Akane’s hand and placed it on his chest. “You’re protecting my heart. I’m finding my own will, but...so much of what gives me the strength to go on, to be good and to keep fighting...is you. You’re already giving me the world, Akane-chan. I’m not sure what else there is to ask.”

Akane listened to this, eyes widening throughout it all…

And then she blushed red, before punching Kokichi in the shoulder, looking away and flustered as she said, “Awwwww, you flirt. You always know what to say to get me all gooey and stuff. You’re too much sometimes, ‘Kichi…. Alright! Then I’ll just keep doing all that stuff! To a hundred percent! A hundred and ten percent! No, fuck that, two hundred!! We’re going to the stars, babe!!”

She almost looked vicious, the more pumped up she got… but she laughed after a moment, looking a little embarrassed, as she said, “Okay but for real please take me home, I just heard myself echo in my own head and it was weird. How do we get back?”

As Kokichi made his pathway into Kaito’s head…

Kaito was not doing entirely well, and Madison wasn’t sure why.

Before, his insides had been burning up, Kaito so overwhelmed with emotion that he was starting to physically destroy himself, his insides squeezing and ripping themselves into literal ulcers, the stress going through his skin so clearly that he could actually feel it at the root of his hair, which made him grip at the roots and pull, trying to ease the strange phantom ache. 

Tonight had just been hard, mentally. He was having too difficult a time turning his brain off. He couldn’t stop thinking about all his failures, recently, and those feelings had eventually led to obsessively thinking about Kokichi’s situation, and the sheer reality of how… hopeless, it all felt sometimes. How helpless he was to do anything for him.

The temptation to fall apart, to just… give up all responsibility for himself and let himself just lose it… he had been fighting it for several hours, that night, and Madison couldn’t understand why he wasn’t better after she gave him what he wanted. 

He wanted to fall apart. Okay. Done.

He wanted to help Kokichi. Okay. Done. 

Why was he worse?

Saint Madison puzzled over this, watching as Kaito was literally half melting in front of her. Staring out into nothing, incomplete. Something was missing. It was too far from him… something essential. 

There was no Kaito without this piece, and for the very first time in his life, it was distant from him, and his very concept of existence didn’t know how to cope with that. Something was wrong, something was wrong, something was wrong-

The second Akane stepped through the path, she ran towards him, suddenly keenly aware of how badly he was suffering without her. Madison watched, still confused as to what exactly had gone wrong here, as the werewolf ran to Kaito’s side, taking his face in her hands, Kaito, half melted, looking at her in baffled horror…

She grinned. “It’s okay. Everything’s okay. Square your shoulders. Lift your chin. Kokichi’s here. Don’t look weak in front of our mate, okay?”

Kaito looked back at her… and sighed. Closing his eyes. And as he closed his eyes, the strange, swirling, melting landscape solidified into a deep, dark forest. The moon high and full and reassuring. The air crisp and clean. A slight breeze through the trees. 

Akane relaxed… there we go… she was real again..

And a massive, massive wolf looked back at Kokichi, giving him a nod, before running off into the dark  of the forest. A howl in the shadows as Kaito took another breath. His form solidifying again.

Kokichi giggled softly at the punch, pleased as ever when he managed to fluster Kaito, but...yeah, it was time to go home. By now, making a portal to Kaito was easy--and that probably helped him make it at all, though he was feeling alright today--but what he saw on the other side was...not. 

The sight of Kaito spurred Akane into action, but it had stopped Kokichi fast, his eyes wide with horror as - Kaito was melting, his husband was falling apart, no!

...you can’t break people apart. Even if they were a little different, that was how they functioned, how they were as a person. You can’t break that. 

Kokichi took a deep breath of the night forest air, his head in his hands for a moment as he walked over to Saint Madison, giving his husband some time to heal before...something. Maybe checking on him. Maybe just leaving. 

“...people can’t handle having their souls stretched out…” He sighed, looking up at the saint. Not quite reproachful, but understanding in worry. “Now we know. I think me talking to Akane-chan might help, but...next time Kai-chan’s having issues like this...call me. We can try to solve things while keeping his mind intact.”

“I don’t understand what went wrong. I gave him what he desired, and he just got worse…” Saint Madison sighed, still looking at Kaito like he was a puzzle she couldn’t quite get her head around, “...it’s my job to keep his mind under his control, but what was happening tonight wasn’t control. I hoped giving him a hand trying to do what he was struggling with would help… instead he got weird and quiet and melty… tsk.”

“...so, I shouldn’t send pieces of him to you, even if he wants it?” Saint Madison reasoned out, giving Kokichi a mildly confused look.

Giving Kaito what he wanted...but that split his essence up… Kokichi furrowed his brow and started tapping his lips, something churning in his mind about that. But...there was one thing that he could give a definite answer on. 

“Correct,” Kokichi said, giving a single, sharp nod. “You help give him protection and control like an Empath can do for themselves, but Kai-chan isn’t an Empath. He’s not...aware of all this, as it is. He has imagination, and he knows his own thoughts, but seeing the mind and being aware of it is...different. In short...it’s much, much easier and safer for me to come to him than it is for him, or pieces of him, to come to me.”

...he felt like he was close to getting at what had happened, but…

Kokichi sighed, and offered a hand to the saint. “May I offer you my understanding of what it means for a non-Empath to have desires that do have an Empathetic solution? I’ll admit, my understanding of the metaphors of the mind are...still coming along.”

Madison sighed, a little frustrated with herself, but… “Yes. Do.” she said, kneeling to one knee in front of him, putting out her hand, palm up. Asking for the knowledge.

Kokichi placed his hand in hers and just...offered up pure knowledge. Things that couldn’t quite fully be explained in words. 

Sometimes people would wish things that, in the lens of an Empath, could have a literal solution. However, the non-Empath would have no concept of that. Would, normally, have no ability to do that. And without the power and conceptualization, would be ripped apart because of it. 

Maybe they would be lucky, and just get stressed out. Maybe they would develop a mental illness because of it. Maybe they would just...break. 

Madison was meant to ensure Kaito had control of his mind. But he wasn’t an Empath, so his level of control wasn’t complete mastery. He needed control within his means, and everything else to...not be an option, or at least to require a trusted Empath to help him through it. 

“...Okay.” She said, standing back up, looking a little more calm. More certain, as she nodded, “I believe I understand. I apologize for any difficulties this may have caused. I will act with more discretion to what he can handle, and send you a message the next time an empath solution seems plausible.”

Kaito was now opening his eyes, looking around warily. He felt… better. Ugh… better still didn’t feel that good… what was that? He had felt like he was losing his mind, for a second there. He had felt like he couldn’t think…

He looked around at the forest, not really seeing it. But aware that at least he felt a little… more secure. Safer. He should open up the window, the night air would feel nice…

He stood up, and a hole opened up to their room. Kaito stepped in, stepping out of bed in the real world, off to open the window. What a night…

“Thank you,” Kokichi nodded. “We’re all sort of figuring this out as we go. Thankfully...I think I brought Akane-chan back just in time.”

He watched Kaito get up--now back to his usual solid state--and...he did seem alright. He had to tell Temp and Alter Ego about this, but… Kokichi looked back up at Saint Madison, not making moves to follow Kaito into his projection of their room just yet. “I would like to keep an eye on him for a little while, just to make sure he’s alright. Since he’s awake, I’m not going to interact with him directly. Is that amenable to you?”

Madison gave him an openly suspicious look… “He’s not aware you’re here… but if you don’t go beyond his surface thoughts, and you’re not just watching him to kill time, then yes. But I’m watching. I appreciate your help earlier, but if you touch anything without his permission, I’m kicking you out.”

Kokichi smiled slightly. “Believe me, I have other things to do tonight, including actually getting some sleep, and I’ve just had a deep conversation with Kai-chan. I just want to make sure nothing has gone wrong from having his soul stretched apart. I understand your conditions.”

Kaito didn’t know he was here...so he wouldn’t be expecting to see Kokichi anyway. Except for where he was in the real world. 

Rather than truly cloaking himself, Kokichi stepped into the projection of their room and...let himself fall into place with his sleeping form. Keeping a quiet eye on Kaito, though his husband would only see him asleep. He would stay for a little bit, make sure there weren’t any other consequences...then he would return to his own mind and...hope Alter Ego and Temp wouldn’t mind a very late night call. 

He didn’t think he would have it in him to check on Griffin tonight too, but...it was something to be aware of, he supposed. 

Kaito glanced back at Kokichi and Shuuichi’s sleeping figures, just… endlessly thankful neither of them had woken up through that. He had tried his best to be quiet, and thankfully they were both pretty deep sleepers… usually if it got that bad, he’d go into the bathroom, just to have a door to close, let himself be a little louder, but before he could get up today to do that, it was like… he just lost the ability to choose to do so. Just lost the willpower to move.

It had almost been like when he was practicing the rituals for Atua’s week, just sort of feeling… trapped in his body. Only more frightening, since he hadn’t been aware it was about to happen. Maybe he had just suffered a quick thing of sleep paralysis?

...he stared at Kokichi…

...and looked away, amused at himself. His imagination really was too active. Even in a situation like this, it was always going, going, going… he loved the mental image of Kokichi making Tengan shit his pants. He didn’t know why he couldn’t shake it.  

...Tengan had conditioned him…

Kaito sighed, burying his face into his legs. That’s what had happened… Kaito didn’t understand why. Or... or maybe he did understand, and it was so stupid. So… pointlessly cruel. So fucking pointlessly cruel. Prepping him for a life that… was never going to happen. Because his brother wasn’t a fucking monster. Heh… that was Byakuya’s big weakness, really. He was just able to so easily convince people that he was capable of so much more evil than he actually was… that people made actual plans around it. Tengan…

(... Byakuya killed our parents.)

(He is a monster.)

(He just wasn’t a monster to you.)

Kaito felt so helpless… he couldn’t help anyone. Not Byakuya. Not Shuuichi, or Maki. Not Kokichi… not anyone, not when they really needed him…

(You do help Kokichi.)

(You support him, physically and emotionally.)

(You protect his heart.)

Maybe… Kaito still wished he could do more…

He thought, again, of the picture he had hidden in his underwear drawer. It was probably a dumb idea… he just really didn’t know what else to do. Kokichi was always coming to his rescue, and Kaito’s attempts to rescue him just always made things worse for his husband. This felt like the wrong move forward. He felt like he should take his sword and just go run that woman through… too many people who had hurt Kokichi were alive and well… too many…

But Kaito couldn’t hurt those people in any way that would matter. This, at least, might… make things more inconvenient, anyway. That was something, he guessed… he should make certain it wasn’t going to hurt anything already going on. Maybe ask Aiichi? That was probably the next step…

Kaito played with the green lantern ring on his hand, looking at Kokichi… heh…

… his husband was so good. So much better…

… what if Kokichi had superpowers?

Kaito laughed at himself. Feeling more calmed down. Amused at himself and his daydreams… it really wasn’t as bad as it felt sometimes. Things were okay. Kokichi got a little stronger every day. Things were okay…

Kaito sighed, and went back to bed.

...Kokichi was really proud of Kaito. Maki and Shuuichi might get annoyed and roll their eyes, and Kaito’s elongated stays in his shrine really worried Kokichi, but...Kaito was dealing with a lot. An absurd amount, as Dr. Mariah might muse. And until recently, he hadn’t really...been able to actually deal with it. Add in that he suddenly had years of issues to work through all while new crises were constantly happening…

No wonder Kaito felt like he was losing his mind. 

But with all of that going on...Kaito had never lost his heart. His love and desire to care for and support his family. Rough moments weren’t losing that. They were just rough moments. 

Kokichi smiled slightly as Kaito came back to bed, and he could feel his husband winding down. He was alright… Still. If he could remember, he wanted to keep a closer eye on Kaito tomorrow. 

Closing his eyes, Kokichi took a breath…

And was still in his bed, but in his own mind, alone this time. He needed to get to sleep too, but he could handle talking for a bit without compromising himself. Gently, he reached out to his friends.

The Templar arrived, thankfully whole and human looking this time, stepping out of the darkness as he looked around with an approving air, “...you’re doing much better, Kokichi.” he noted, giving the Dicean Prince a nod, “I’m not walking through watercolors, for one, which is a notable improvement.”

Alter Ego, in turn, appeared and walked the ledge of the bookshelf, “The watercolors have been completely gone for a few days now. Kokichi, what do you ne-gah!”

（｀Δ´）! ! !

With a bell cry, Chibi Kaito leapt from the top of the bookshelf onto the back of the cat, waving his arm and shouting as loud as he could!!

Big Kokichi! 

People are here!!

They didn’t even use the front door!! Assholes! Should he grab the pencil and jab them out!??

Sitting up crosslegged in bed, Kokichi waved to his friends, smiling a bit at the acknowledgement of his healing--the room was fleshed out and normal, though trying to leave without Kokichi leading the way would likely start to get a bit fuzzy--and he opened his mouth to start to explain, but…

He sighed, giving Chibi Kaito a tiredly amused look. “Kai-chan, I invited them, and Alter Ego has a key anyway. ...you really got my intent to talk already, huh?”

Shaking his head, he gave his friends a sort of…’what can ya do’ look. “It’s been...a busy night. And I think I’ve discovered a possible side-effect of having a long-term, adaptable defence.”

“I’m telling you, he just likes to pick on me.” Alter Ego hissed, as Temp walked over and, being appropriately gentle with the small creature, picked Kaito up around the middle, who thrashed in his hand, before bringing it to Kokichi, tossing the little thing into the other empaths lap. 

(҂⌣̀_⌣́) Chibi Kaito settled down on Kokichi’s lap, sitting cross legged and crossing his arms. Yes… duty fulfilled. 

Temp, after lending his hand, stepped back and gave Kokichi a curious look, “Oh? Do tell?”

“Is this a thought experiment, or did something happen?” Alter Ego asked, sitting at the bookshelf, tail hanging over the end, “Are you okay?”

Kokichi sighed, giving Chibi Kaito a gentle pat on the head. They were working on it. 

“Something happened, and I’m alright. I’m pretty sure Kai-chan’s alright too--I stuck around and kept an eye on him for a bit,” Kokichi started to explain. “So… I can see her logic, and I think that her logic is understandable, because she adapts? But… Saint Madison made a decision to try and help Kai-chan out, but it really hurt him. She sent a piece of him to me, I think because...he wanted to be with and protect me and she was just like, hey, that’s something I can help you actually do, let’s do it.”

Kokichi grimaced, the image still...entirely disturbing. “When I brought the piece back, he was...melting. He couldn’t function. I cleared things up with her, but...I think, because they’re made to problem solve, defences might come up with a solution that can really hurt the person they’re meant to protect.”

Alter Ego looked curious at this, but it was Temp whose eyes widened in shock. 

“...she… ripped a piece of him out and sent it somewhere else?” Temp asked, clearly some disbelief in the question, “Kokichi that’s top tier empath ability, and one that takes a considerable amount of effort. One that I’m not certain your defense should be… actually capable of. Even just sending a projection out-”

Chibi Kaito... raised his hand.

ಠ_ಠ… whoops?

Chibi Kaito, through many body motions and strategically placed bells, explained he had been the one that bridged the gap for Madison, her reaching out through Kokichi’s tether to her. 

Honestly, Kokichi had been willing to chalk it up to Kaito’s odd situation, and while he hadn’t explained it at first, he had been about to. But...Chibi Kaito…

Sighing, Kokichi rubbed his forehead a bit and gave the tiny version of his husband a tired look. “Kai-chan...I was awake in here then. You could’ve just told me that she was trying to reach out. As nice as it was meeting Akane-chan, I think it would’ve been a lot better for Kai-chan if I had just...gone to see what was up.”

“...and you didn’t even tell me. Hun, she tackled me into a pond. I thought I was gonna get eaten by a mind-wolf.”

(๑◕︵◕๑)

｡ﾟ( ﾟஇ‸இﾟ+)ﾟ｡

(இ﹏இ`｡)

Chibi Kaito hadnt meant to get Big Kokichi almost eaten by a mind wolf…

As the little creature reared over this information, sniffling at the mental image of eaten giant Kokichi’s, Alter Ego gave them both a long look. “...mind wolf?”

“Sorry, didn’t you say it was Kaito this all happened with? Who is Akane?” Temp asked, also raising an eyebrow.

“Hun…” Kokichi sighed and picked Chibi Kaito up, bringing him up into a hug as he felt giant, cartoon tears seep into his shirt. He softly shushed the creature as he gave his friends an awkward smile. 

“That’s...the other big thing that happened.”

Thinking for a moment, Kokichi...tried to explain things the best he could. “Do you remember, when we all went into Kai-chan’s mind, and you guys said there was some weird stuff that didn’t quite fit? Like the forest, and the middle of the ocean.”

“Well...the forest is Akane-chan’s. She’s...Kai-chan, but she wasn’t always. She…” Kokichi frowned a little, still...not totally sure. “She said she had died a long time ago, but someone asked for her help and...she doesn’t really remember more than that. But...she is Kai-chan. A part of his soul, I think...and she said there were others too.”

“...and she’s a werewolf,” Kokichi tacked on, after a moment.

“... what?” Alter Ego said. “That’s… what?”

Temp, in turn, frowned, giving Kokichi a long look, “...okay. I see. I… I think I see, anyway. That’s… huh…”

Temp went and sat down at the desk, crossing his leg and putting his chin in his hands, thinking… “You’re certain? A being claiming to be long dead and also your husband and… honestly, the werewolf part is the most mundane part of it, even knowing how rare werewolves are in this part of the world now. Even Dicea has its dark parts of history, and werewolves went through a bit of a crisis, a long time ago, within its borders… so they’re more rare now, but not unheard of… not that this necessarily even factors in, since this person claims to be dead… and your husband… he couldn’t function without her?”

Alter Ego eyes widened, before saying uncertainly, “...a shard?”

“You don’t cease functioning when one of your shards gets away from you, you cease to exist. Kaito sounds like he still had some form when his piece was missing, so… if he’s something like you, Alter Ego, he’s a far more advanced and likely more naturally occurring type… or, maybe not ‘naturally’ occurring, this so rarely happens naturally… it would explain the pieces of his consciousness that don’t quite… fit…”

Temp closed his eyes… before he let out a breath, opening them. “I apologize. I’m focusing on the wrong part of this. Your husbands… birth, may be more unique than average, but it doesn’t really change anything, and I don’t want to talk as if it does. He is still Kaito, as you have known him to be the whole time. Just perhaps with more… supernatural aspects to him than was previously obvious. Interesting, but not itself inherently alarming.”

“I mean, as someone who’s never met anyone else with shards, I’m a little interested…” Alter Ego mumbled, before sighing, “But, I understand what you’re saying. Kaito himself isn’t the issue, it’s what the defense we placed in his head is doing. While her being able to rip his soul apart and send it out would have been horrifying in itself, and it’s a relief that’s not the case, the fact that she still chose to do so, when she found a way, is… alarming. We might want to… I suppose work out some basic rules or instructions we leave behind with the defenses we make?”

Chibi Kaito, in turn, wasn’t sniffling anymore… just enamored with the idea that a part of him was a werewolf. Cool…. Cool!

He knew it was incredibly weird, and kind of unbelievable. But… Kokichi gestured vaguely with the hand that wasn’t supporting Chibi Kaito. “I thought she was some trap at first but...she wasn’t a decoy, and when I looked into her? She felt the same as Kai-chan. Really...she acted like we’d already known each other at first, and when I asked who she was and why she felt like Kai-chan...she got really confused. Because she is Kai-chan...but different. And seeing what happened when I brought her back, and that Saint Madison wasn’t alarmed...I’m inclined to believe it.”

Kokichi nodded slightly at Alter Ego’s guess--even as Temp elaborated more--having thought...around the same thing. But even if they were different...there was probably a lot that Alter Ego could relate to that not a lot of other people would be able to. 

Like he had promised Akane, one day, when he could tell Kaito in the physical world...he wanted to introduce them. Alter Ego was such an important person to Kokichi, so naturally he’d want to properly introduce his partners. 

Feeling Chibi Kaito stop crying, Kokichi gently set him back down in his lap, rubbing his thumb in circles on Chibi Kaito’s back in a sort of rub, though he didn’t look like he needed comforting anymore. 

“I offered a transfer of information to Saint Madison, about how Empath solutions to problems non-Empaths have have the potential to really hurt them. And...she’s gonna notify me now when Kai-chan has a problem that she thinks can be solved with Empath abilities,” Kokichi explained. “So...it might be beneficial to explain that just because the defence is aware of the consciousness, the person they’re protecting isn’t...and all the stuff that comes with that. And…”

Kokichi sighed. Really not thrilled with this. “...there are...infinite ideas out there. It...might be a good idea to check in with the defences, every once in a while, and talk about the kind of ideas they’re getting to help the person they’re in. So we don’t accidentally overlook something by trying to cover everything when we make them…”

Temp sighed, running  a hand through his raven hair, “I’m hoping that’s not the permanent solution to this problem. We’re hoping to help a considerable amount of people in the future… having to regularly check in on all of them will be… challenging. Perhaps if we worked out a balance to make the defenses less adaptive?”

“We’d put them at risk of the defense being entirely ineffective then.” Alter Ego cautioned, “We’d need to test it, and test it a lot, to make certain we weren’t just leaving behind useless defenses. I’d rather have to regularly check in over not being useful at all. And don’t forget, someday we’re spreading these techniques to the rest of the community. It won’t just be us.”

Kokichi nodded slightly, agreeing more with Alter Ego, despite how much he didn’t want to regularly intrude on other people’s minds. “I think as time goes on, we’d have to check in less, because...I mean, ideally, we wouldn’t tell the defence, ‘hey, just don’t do this one specific thing’. We’re essentially teaching someone, explaining why their decision hurt their protectee, and why similar things along the same concept would hurt them too. Or why there would be exceptions. As the defence learns, they’ll be able to to think forward about if something they’re about to do will hurt the person they’re trying to help.”

“And ideally...we can fold the conversations we’ve already had with other defences into the new ones we make. It’s not a catch-all, so we’d still have to check in, but...it would make it less frequent, since dangerous ideas would have to be more specific and abstract.”

Sighing, Kokichi tugged at the back of his hair. “...and we won’t be alone. Once we can explain this method to others? Everyone in the community can share the guidelines they’ve explained to their defences, and there will be even fewer pitfalls a defence can fall into.”

...it was a lot. But getting rid of conditioning on a widespread level was never going to be easy, and Kokichi was determined to see it through. Therapy could help people externally, and Empaths could help internally with things that were beyond a person’s control. And...eventually, no one would be at the mercy of their mind anymore. 

“...I haven’t gotten the chance to check on Griffin tonight. And...I don’t think I have it in me,” Kokichi admitted, looking a bit tired. “They’re still kind of new, compared to Saint Madison, but I still think it’d be a good idea to double check… Would you guys mind? Or I can probably do it tomorrow…”

“I can go check, certainly. Alter Ego?” Temp asked, looking over at the cat, who immediately nodded.

“‘Coure. They are my defense, and I’ve been curious to see how they’re doing anyway. I’m hoping that the fact that the defense is limited to essentially just one part of Shuuichi’s mind will limit the amount of ‘solutions’ they can come too, but still, we should check.” Alter Ego looked to Kokichi, giving him a somewhat sympathetic stare, as he said, “And you definitely need your rest. Jumping from consciousness to consciousness, getting almost eaten by mind-wolves? ...that’s a busy night by itself. Get some rest Kokichi. I’ll let you know how things went with Griffin tomorrow night.”

And with that, the two empaths stepped away, and were gone.

Chibi Kaito looked up at Kokichi, idly petting his arm. Reaching over, Chibi Kaito tried to grab the ends of the blanket and pull it up to cover Kokichi’s lap, thinking vaguely of tucking him in.

Kokichi didn’t think his friends would refuse, but it was a relief to know that they were headed that way. On the outside, Kokichi didn’t think there had been any adverse side-effects for Shuuichi--the embarrassment and panic were things he didn’t think came from conditioning at all--but...it would be good to check. Just in case. 

“Thanks. I’ll see ya.”

Now alone in his mind again, Kokichi sighed, looking down at Chibi Kaito with a tired smile. “Yeah, yeah, it’s bedtime. Are you gonna stay here with me tonight, or head back up to space?”

Chibi Kaito liked Space. It was pretty and spacious and he loved flying around up there. But Big Kokichi wasn’t strong enough yet to make Chibi Kokichi for any stretch of time, and Chibi Kaito liked other people more than he liked space. (He supposed he’d make a terrible astronaut, if those science fiction stories ever came to life.)

So, while Big Kokichi was here, however briefly, Chibi Kaito would rather be with him. So he hugged into his chest, asking to stay.

“Sure thing, hun.” Gently scooping Chibi Kaito up again, briefly, Kokichi got down under his covers and laid down, setting Chibi Kaito back down on his chest. Kokichi really was about to go to sleep, but for a moment he just stroked the back of his tiny husband’s head. “Big You’s really complicated...more than I thought already. But...it’s all just Kai-chan.”

“I love you, Kai-chan. Good night.”

-

“Do you think we could get my snake while we’re out here?”

“What? No? Festival stuff, Shuuichi.”

“Yeah, sure, but… I mean, we’re out here anyway… seems a waste to not just go grab my snake…”

“We’re getting a snake?” Tim asked, looking intrigued by this, as the group made their way down the hill a bit, Kaito holding onto Kokichi’s wheelchair, Shuuichi steadying himself on his other arm, as they moved further into the park area. 

It was, thankfully, a beautiful day already, and people were taking full advantage of that. Blankets of various patterns and colors were littered around the green, lush park landscape, people rolling out snacks and meals for their individual picnics, umbrella’s going up for those less inclined towards the direct sun. Kaito had tasked Tim with the umbrella, because the kid seemed pretty happy to be holding a long, somewhat pointy stick, holding it effortlessly, and Kaito himself, on his other shoulder, was carrying a blanket that Shuuichi and Kokichi would get to lounge on a bit later. On Kokichi’s lap, was a picnic basket full of food, and they were planning to meet people at the park who would bring things like balls and frisbees to play with.

Just that by itself would make an awesome afternoon out, but the Hanami festival was also in full force around them, enticing and fun and drawing in the crowds. Food stalls were set up everywhere, promising new and fun things to try, along with game stalls, and a few of the sports going on around them were clearly more official than others, complicated games set up and prepared beforehand. Further down the hill, which Kaito expected they’d end up at at some point, was a large, open-ended cement theater in the park, where Kokichi had told them performances were going to be held, and…

“We’re not getting a snake, today, we’re doing festival things today… and what the… what is that?” Kaito squinted, looking at one of the peeks of the hills, something that definitely hadn’t been there during the wedding… a long stick tower thing with… ribbons? Blowing in the wind?

Tim squinted as well. “...Swing?”

“...shit that’d be an awesome swing…” Kaito agreed.

It was Hanami, and the smell in the air and petals in the breeze definitely agreed. Sure, they found ways to have a good time when it rained on Hanami too--though more often than not they’d just postpone the outdoor bits until it was clear again--since rain was a big part of spring too, but…

Kokichi tilted his head up into the sun, taking a deep breath. This really was an idyllic day for their flower festival. 

“Mm...the people who run the conservation society are probably enjoying the festival too. Though, they might have a small, like, sorta petting zoo set up. A lot of people take advantage of the high traffic of festivals to promote their businesses or spread information,” Kokichi explained, looking around at all the people already in full swing of the festival. But that was to be expected, since it was mid-morning already.

He couldn’t remember the last time he’d gone to a festival at midday. If he wasn’t there in the morning for the kick-off, usually it was because he was too sick to come at all. But while he was still using a wheelchair...Kokichi felt pretty good. A healthy flush in his cheeks and full of energy, ready to enjoy the special day. And while walking around normally was still out of reach, Kokichi could manage to take a few steps himself now. Which made going to the bathroom a loooooot easier. 

Still, though, he didn’t think he’d be playing hackysack with anyone today. But that was alright--there were plenty of other things to enjoy. 

Looking over at what Kaito and Tim were looking at, Kokichi snorted quietly. “Oh man...it would make a cool swing… Though I don’t know if it’s sturdy enough for that.”

Pointing over at the big pole in the ground, Kokichi started to explain. “That’s a garland pole! It’s...kind of a performance thing now. A bunch of people grab onto the garlands and ribbons that are attached to the top of the pole, and dance in weaving circles. When the dance is done, there’s a cool design weaved around the pole, and the pieces are attached at the bottom so they don’t come undone. Then...it’s on display, usually for the rest of spring.”

“Oh, yeah? That’s pretty cool, we’ll have to check that out when it starts.” Kaito grinned, feeling pretty pumped up himself. It was nice to be out. Like, out out! The room was nice, the castle wasn’t exactly claustrophobic, but look! They were out! 

Looking around, thinking of the chair, Kaito wanted to pick somewhere on the hill that was a little more stable, a little more horizontal… and noted a small dip that wasn’t occupied yet. “Alright, come on, guys, over this way. Let’s get set up.”

Getting over to the dip, Kaito locked down the wheelchair, not wanting Kokichi to continue down the hill despite himself, and he and Tim laid out the blanket, before Kaito set up the umbrella. Creating a nice little spot for when they weren’t wandering around, Shuuichi taking the basket from Kokichi’s lap and putting it down. Almost just as they were finished setting up, Chase, by Tim’s side as usual, suddenly let out an excited bark.

That was Tim’s warning, as Cali crashed into his back, “HAPPY HANAMI!”

“Gah!” The two crashed into the grass, and Kaito looked around. Where were… ah, there was Cali’s parents. Waaaaaay further up the hill. They had brought lounge chairs, the father seeming to be trying to nap, the mother reading a book. He considered heading up to say hello… nah. Cali’s mom wouldn’t appreciate it. 

“Hey Cali. Did you bring the- oh, woah!” Kaito just barely caught the frisby as Cali, somehow, managed to throw it from the pile she and Tim were in, Kaito rolling his eyes a little before tossing it onto the blanket, “Good. We’ll play with it at some point today.”

Kokichi nodded. It was always a fun time, seeing the dancers go, listening to the music, watching art--though the whole thing was art, but semantics…--being created… It was something special. And something he’d get to share with his family for the first time!

As they found their spot to get settled, Kokichi took a deep breath. Sure, Kaito could just help him out, but...he wanted to flex a little, figuratively and literally. Carefully, Kokichi eased himself up from his chair, planning to take just a few steps before sitting down on the blanket. His legs were shaking, but he was up, moving. 

Kokichi’s eyes widened in surprise as Cali barreled Tim over out of nowhere, collapsing down...more or less onto the spot he wanted. 

Laughing a bit, Kokichi adjusted himself into a more comfortable position. “Happy Hanami!”

Kaito looked over at the chair, startled to see it was empty-- he had been distracted by Cali, hadn’t seen Kokchi get up-- and looking over Kokichi, snorted, leaning down to give his husband a kiss against his skull as he said, “Running off on me, Kokichi?”

Shuuichi, in turn, kicked off his shoes and settled onto the blanket, looking around curiously… before saying, “Lounge chairs… is it too late to get lounge chairs?”

Internally, Kaito only sighed a little, because it was not too late for lounge chairs, but it did mean he was about to have to go run an errand as he said to Shuuichi, “Nah, it’s not too late. I can make a quick run to the market, if you want one, handsome.”

Shuuichi bit the bottom of his lip, “... I mean… it’s not too inconvenient?”

“Nah. Kokichi, if I’m making a run anyway, you want one too? I can carry two.”

“We can help!” Cali volunteered, Tim finally managing to crawl out from under her, Cali grinning brightly, “I can run with a chair! Watch me!”

“Go ask your parents first.” Kaito told her, ignoring her groan, though he was looking around now… where was the third one…

“H~eeeey!” Kimiko called from the bottom of the hill, heading up, Shirogane waving up at them in a light blue sundress, straw hat and sunglasses, Kimiko dressed similarly, though in a light yellow. Chase went to meet her halfway up, Kimiko petting all over her body, before she finally managed to get up to them, “Mister Kokichi! You came out for Hanami!”

Kokichi gave his husband a wink, enjoying the kiss. “You know it. Can’t take your eyes off me for a second, otherwise I’ll be scuttling for the mountains.” It was something so small, but...it was nice, getting to surprise Kaito with his small bouts of mobility. Maybe things feel like, slowly, they were getting back to normal. 

Everyone else at the park seemed to have their own systems set up, whether for relaxing, planning today to be an all-day eating session, or playing games. And for the former, chairs seemed like a popular addition. Would probably help Shuuichi get up and down easier… Kokichi had a feeling that if Hanami had been a more ‘on-your-feet’ kind of festival, Shuuichi would’ve just found a nice spot to sit anyway. 

However, Kokichi had more than enough of sitting in chairs normally, even if he was just sitting on the ground now. Shaking his head a little at Kaito’s offer, Kokichi turned, hearing another call out, and he grinned, waving over at Tsumugi and Kimiko.

“Heya! And I did! I would hate to miss Hanami--it’s one of my favorite times of the year. Knowing that there are dozens of cherry cordials to eat is big motivation for working on getting out of bed.”

“Kimiko, me, Cali and Tim are making a quick trip to the market. Go ask your mom if it’s okay to come with us… if you want to go.” Kaito tacked on at the end, though he doubted he needed to. And just as expected, Kimiko immediately turned and started running back down the hill, while, with a sigh Cali started heading up to go ask her own parents.

“Alright, so one chair. Anything else? This is your shot if you want anything from the market today, I’d be hard pressed to go twice.” Kaito cautioned, though he knew damn well he’d probably do it again if they asked him too.

“Mmmm…” Shuuichi looked through the picnic basket, before saying, “No, I think I’m good otherwise. Thank you, Kaito.”

“Mmm, not from the market, but since you’ll be passing by the plaza, if you see any cool treats, grab one for me?” Kokichi requested, really wanting to request as many treats as they could plausibly fit on a plate, but knowing Kaito’s limits, even for a holiday. “People get real creative with decorating, since edible flowers are in season in bulk. And they tend to taste good too!”

Hmm… With Kaito and the kids at the market, it was just going to be him and Shuuichi… Looking over at the space between them, Kokichi started scooting himself over a bit, wanting to cuddle with his boyfriend while he was still going to be on the ground. 

Out in the groups of people, Kokichi recognized a few folks he knew, here and there. People enjoying the festival. ...he wondered if any of Maki’s siblings would be comfortable coming out to a public event like this so soon. Maybe they’d just have a smaller celebration at home…

“Alright, little treats for Kokichi and Shuuichi, got it… kids are probably gonna want treats too…” Kaito mused, double checking his coin purse, reassuring himself he’d have enough. “Alright! Will do. You guys relax, we’ll be back soon.”

Cali and Kimiko came back soon, and Tim instructed Chase to stay with Shuuichi and Kokichi, the black lab huffing a bit, but eventually she laid out in the grass, tail wagging occasionally, settling in to keep watch as dad went off to do whatever he was going to do. 

As Kaito and the kids were off,  Shuuichi smiled warmly at Kokichi, putting an arm around his waist and giving him a small side hug, now that he was all scootched in. “It’s a nice day for this… it’ll be good when Ikou gets here. Have everyone together.”

Kokichi hummed happily as Shuuichi put an arm around him and he tipped his head onto his boyfriend’s shoulder in affectionate appreciation. “Mhmm. When I told him our plans, he said he’d come around the park around mid-morning to join, but he has a few friends he wanted to see first. So...he’ll be around eventually.”

And knowing his dad, he’d probably be bringing more food too. Ikuo didn’t do much cooking while he lived at the castle, but for events like this, he probably made a little something to give out to his friends and family. He was just a wholesome guy that way. 

“Mmm…” Kokichi hummed, watching little pink petals drift by in the air. “Baseball season’s started. I don’t think Nadya-chan has practice today, since it’s a holiday, so we might see her around… It’d be fun to go to one of her games, sometime. Never seen a full game before.”

“Neither have I. I’m sure it’d be fun though. Sports are a little too long for me, sometimes, but there’s always this infectious sort of energy in them that makes it a pretty good time, if you’re willing to enjoy it… though, every sports game I’ve ever been to has resulted in me trying desperately to keep Maki from going to have a ‘chat’ with someone.” Shuuichi scoffed, rolling his eyes a little. “She’s the worst kind of fan. I was mortified, the one time Kaito got us field side seats, and we had to physically hold her back from going over the railing to yell at the coach.”

Kokichi giggled softly, knowing quite a bit about Maki’s sports opinions without actually having gone to a game with her. Maybe soon, though. “I had a...sort of vague idea about getting her tickets to a hockey game for Unity.”

Months in advance, when there hadn’t been any other questions about where Maki would be over the winter. 

“There are nets over the side barriers, so I think she’d have a harder time getting into it,” Kokichi snickered. “Though, if anyone’s in a penalty box, they’d probably get an earful. I think that’d be its own sort of entertainment… It could be a fun way to spend an afternoon, when she’s back. Going to any sports game.”

And since they had gotten the news weeks ago...saying that wasn’t just Kokichi affirming his faith anymore. She really was coming back…

“... I hate to bring the mood down.” Shuuichi confessed, enjoying watching the families around them playing in the park, light pink petals blowing through the breeze. One landing on Chase’s nose, who went cross-eyed looking at it, but seemed perfectly content to leave it where it was. “...but we should be prepared for the possibility that Kaito won’t be able to handle seeing her…”

“He hasn’t said as much… he hasn’t talked much about any of it, really. But I imagine his feelings for Maki are… complicated, right now. I know I’d feel conflicted in his place.”

Kokichi sighed softly, looking out at the same things Shuuichi was. “...yeah. I know things won’t...immediately go back to the way they were when she comes back. I’m not trying to imply that when I talk about the future, and I’m sorry if that implication’s hurt you.”

Maki hadn’t had to kill Byakuya. But it didn’t mean everything was okay. 

Leaning a little more against Shuuichi’s shoulder, Kokichi spoke quietly. “...I promised her that she’d always have a home to come back to. So...even through Kai-chan’s hurt, and through her own...that’s what I want to provide. A home is more than a place with a bed to sleep in. When she comes back...I want it to be to a place where people are excited to see her, and make plans with her in mind, even if she’ll say no.”

“Things are...probably going to be...difficult, between all of us. I don’t...want to act like I’m shoving all our collective baggage under the rug. I just...want everyone to feel like they’re home. And we can figure things out from there.”

“No, of course… I just wanted you to be ready. Your Luminaries can be… emotional and cruel and sometimes we don’t know what we’re going to do till we’re halfway done doing it.” Shuuichi murmured, before shrugging a little, sighing, “I just don’t want you to be shocked if Kaito acts in a way we don’t expect. Or if maybe Maki acts in a way we don’t expect… I, of course, am entirely rational, all of the time, and would never act in a surprising or upsetting way.” Shuuichi smirked, leaning his head against Kokichi a bit. “So no worries about me.”

...maybe. But they were getting a little better about it. At least in thinking through what they were going to do, and weighing it against the consequences. 

“Of course,” Kokichi echoed, voice entirely sweet and without even a hint of a laugh in it. “Shuu-chan’s gonna be my completely objective and rational rock through whatever’s gonna happen. I can count on him to go through the progression of logic and never let heated emotions take over him.”

A faint sound of a snort, before Kokichi turned slightly and pressed a kiss to Shuuichi’s cheek. “I think I’m gonna try and make it to therapy this week. I really am feeling a lot steadier.”

“Were you thinking group therapy or personal therapy? Cause if it’s group therapy, we really have to figure out what we’re gonna say we did for the homework.” Shuuichi laughed, pleased at the kiss. “Dr. Mariah is way more expectant when it comes to that then Miss Crystal is. I swear, those two are exact opposites when it comes to their practices. That woman-- the one who actually looks like a woman and not an actual small child-- cannot stay on topic to save her life.”

“I was thinking personal, but it’d be good to get back to group therapy too,” Kokichi hummed. “And you guys helped me through a coma and my various stages of immobility--that’s definitely helping me with problems, even if it’s not really advice. I think we can get a pass due to extreme circumstances.”

“...if you don’t mind me asking… How are things going with Miss Crystal?”

Shuchi sighed, “No idea.” He confessed honestly, “I’m still not sure… exactly what the goal of me going is. Why everyone thought it was so important to me to do this. Most of our sessions are just sort of us… talking about nothing much...”

“... she keeps trying to bring up what it was like being an Indentured with me. Keeps trying to get me to talk about it. I just… don’t know what it is she wants me to say. Being an Indentured was literally my whole life. And, now that I’m… free… I don’t feel different. It’s not like… I mean, I know things are different. I can kind of go wherever I want, whenever I want, and I have all these choices available to me now, and… sometimes it even feels like my compulsion to give information itself has been easing up. My vision hasn’t tunneled in ages…”

“...but sometimes I feel like I’m expected to feel like an entirely different person… and, I keep trying to explain to her that this was always the plan. I grew up thinking I was going to be free sometimes around this age, though I’m early by two years. I grew up thinking this was… inevitable. Though, hearing that it’d be expected, planned, for me to end up in another contract by design… in retrospect, that makes sense. A lot of people with important jobs somehow end up in contracts over and over and over again… but when you asked about it, there was always a reason. It felt avoidable…”

Shuuichi sighed. “I don’t know. Group therapy feels easier, because I can kind of piggy back off your and Kaito’s goals. I don’t have any personal therapy goals. I don’t know what I should be trying to improve.”

Kokichi nodded slightly. Kaito had said some of the same stuff--not knowing what your therapist wanted to hear, not really having personal goals, though Kaito had at least had his anger management to work on, even if he didn’t really know what that looked like either. Of course Kokichi was elated to hear it, but...something pinged in his mind to note that Shuuichi hadn’t tunnel visioned in a long time. To just...keep that in mind. 

“I still think it’s a good idea for you to have sessions with her...but I think it’s also okay to...not know what you want to get out of therapy too. At least for the start.” Kokichi nuzzled at Shuuichi’s shoulder, smiling a bit as he watched a family start to play a...non-net version of volleyball? Or maybe they were just hitting a beachball around. “For me? I’m always learning new stuff, but...I kind of knew a handful of things I really wanted help with. Suicidal thoughts, anxiety, childhood trauma...I mean. Those are just words, really. What I really wanted was...help having hope about the future, even when things were bad. Learning things I could do to help me keep calm when I feel like freaking out. Being able to talk to someone about my childhood, and have help identifying behaviors that are more...a scared kid reacting, than an adult that has the ability to think things through more.”

“For others? Therapy can still be helpful as a place to just...ramble on about life and the past. This is a guess here, but...while you can talk to me and Kai-chan about going through the program? We both know Kai-chan has had trouble thinking about certain aspects of it, and even with how much you guys tell me, I’ll never really understand.” Again, Kokichi pressed his lips to Shuuichi’s cheek. “Miss Crystal won’t understand either, but...she’s not one of your partners. And being able to talk freely about something that affected you so much is important. She’s like...a trial of talking about things. Like your journal. A place and a person to bounce topics and concepts off of, and think through things.”

“A trial of talking about things… that’s an interesting way of thinking about it.” Shuuichi admitted, “Maybe I’ll go into the next session with that sort of idea in mind.”

It was a nice day, and Shuuichi was, honestly, already looking forward to napping part of it, enjoying the warmth of the air and the comfort of knowing he was surrounded by happy people who, even better, could have a good time without him actively participating. Perfection… though, understandably, nap time will probably be interrupted sometimes by their fellow revelers being loud-

“BAAAAABYYYYY!” 

Amber, dressed in almost nothing but what was technically not underwear, but didn’t quite fit the bikini definition, mostly just casually dressed up in strategically tied sashes, finished running down the hill, spotting her friend and excitedly, though carefully, hugging him from behind, throwing her arms around his chest and pulling him into a hug as she said, “Look at you! You’re out! You’re here! I, like, so wasn’t expecting to see youuuu!”

Shuuichi, while mildly annoyed at the valley girl screeching, still politely said, “Hello there, Amber. Happy Hanami.”

“Hey there hot-stuff! Where’s the rest of your clan? Just you two?”

Kokichi perked, and he barely had time to turn and see what was going on before Amber--gently--barreled into him, sparking giggles as his friend embraced him. Which, of course, Kokichi hugged her arms as much as he could. (That’s the second almost naked person that’s tackled me this week--I’m setting a record!)

“Am-chaaaaan!” Kokichi laughed, leaning slightly back into the hug before resuming his cuddled position against Shuuichi’s side. “Mhmm, I’m feeling well enough that I’m out here, though more as a family outing than anything official this year.”

“Kai-chan and the kids are making a last minute market run, and Ikuo’s gonna be meeting up with us later,” Kokichi explained. “How’s Hanami been to you so far, Am-chan? Have you staked out a good spot, or are popping around to things?”

“I have a collaborative art piece me and some other local artists have been working on the last few months set up here! Okay, s~ooooo, see that direction?” Amber said, scooting in beside Kokichi’s free side and pointing towards deeper into the park, where more of the food stalls were set up across the even field. 

“We’ve made some metal sculpture down there. I helped with a lot of the sculptures for little detail works, but I’m particularly proud of the tiny elephant. Not a baby elephant, Tiny. We talked long and hard about it and decided it was just small.” Amber smirked, giving the two men a wink. “You guys going to go down and look at the art displays? They’re littered all over the place. Nothing as good as m’wah,” she said, pointing to herself, before shrugging, “But still pretty nice! Worth a see!”

Shuuichi considered it… going down the hill to go back up it later? Mmmmmm… “Maybe? Maybe. We’ll see, on my end.”

Kokichi followed Amber’s indication, trying to see out far in the park, though he knew the areas art installations tended to be, and knew even squinting the most he wouldn’t be able to see them. Even if he could, really, art deserved to be looked at closer, appreciated at its fullest!

“Aww...a tiny elephant… That’s awesome, Amber!” Kokichi grinned at his friend, but even before Shuuichi hawwed his reluctance, his smile turned a little sheepish. “I’d love to go see them… I have been out here in ages so I haven’t even seen the pieces that were put out before the festival. But...ah…”

Kokichi glanced over at his wheelchair. “I’ll ask Kai-chan if he’ll mind pushing me around down there. We’re planning on going to the amphitheater later, and maybe seeing the garland pole when the performance starts, so maybe we’ll go see the sculptures and installations then.”

“We kind of have just gotten here, though. Plenty of time for figuring out plans. I know the kids are planning on some extreme frisbee, and...I’m kinda just enjoying watching the petals in the air. You can really tell why, like, every painting of Hanami, even more abstract ones, feature them,” Kokichi hummed, keeping his mood up.

Amber chuckled, raising an eyebrow at Kokichi as she said, “If the issue becomes, ‘will Mr. Biceps be up to pushing me up and down a small incline?’ then I think you’re good, baby. Unless you’re telling me that he doesn’t actually know how to use all those muscles he builds up?”

“Are you doing any business here today, Amber? With your jewelry, I mean?” Shuuichi asked, partly curious, partly to be polite.

“Noooo, not this year. Business has been doing really well, advertising wise, lately, so I figured I’d take this festival off and just chill around. Iiiiiii finally got inspired for what to make you, by the way, for both baby and baby's baby. So look forward to that~” Amber teased, giving Kokichi a small, playful wink, before looking to Shuuichi, “...do you wear bracelets!? Have you worn bracelets this whole time!? Why didn’t anyone tell me the baby-daddy wears bracelets?!” she gapped, looking at the simple silver chain on Shuuichi’s wrist.

Shuuichi looked down and shrugged, “It’s a gift. I don’t usually wear things like this.”

Kokichi snickered a bit. That was...extremely fair. And if Kaito didn’t feel fussing with the chair--though he hadn’t asked Kokichi to go without it when he wanted to leave their room, which Kokichi appreciated. Even if he couldn’t wheel himself around, having the chair did give him a bit of freedom--he could just carry him. Though...Kokichi did hope he could keep his chair. 

“Oh, yeah, are teens still flocking to get some grade-a jewelry?” Kokichi semi-rhetorically asked, knowing that they had been an influx still in Amber’s shop the last time they spoke. Hearing that he was about to be--relative time, really--wowed with personal jewelry, and seeing something for Miya too, Kokichi grinned, giving his friend a fond look. There was no talking Amber out of, oh, it was too generous, so...he could just be thankful and amazed. 

Kokichi followed the other two’s gazes to Shuuichi’s wrist, a little...touched that Shuuichi had taken to at least semi-regularly wearing the bracelet Nadya had given him. Shuuichi didn’t usually wear things like that, not even if they were a gift--and he still had a bunch of unworn clothes from Kaito to prove it--so...it was just nice. Kokichi had a feeling that Shuuichi liked it more than he was letting on. 

“It was a birthday gift!” Kokichi chimed in, nudging Shuuichi proudly.

“Ah, whaaaa? You had a birthday?? Damn, why didn’t anyone say anything, I’d have gotten you something Shuuichi!” She smirked, “Maybe more flowers?”

Shuuichi, at ths, groaned a little, “Please no more flowers. We’re still finding stray petals and dirt from the last ones.”

Amber snickered a bit at this, stretching her arms over her head as she said, “Yeaaaaah, that’s fair. We knew it was a lot when we got them, we more just wanted to surprise baby when he woke up. And it was nice having a reason to keep coming back when you were all sleepy and ignoring us. Terrrrrible host, Kokichi, it’s like you barely knew we were there, when you’re in a coma.” Amber teased, nudging him a little. 

With a sigh, she got up, looking around as she said, “I think I’m about to run. I have a few other people I want to seek out, though of course I had to say hi to you when I saw ya, baby. You both good? Neither of you need help with anything while your guys away?”

Kokichi grinned at the nudge and teasing. As much as it’d be fun to joke back, though… “I was surprised, and you and Stacy definitely influenced my coma dreams. I don’t really remember now, but Shuu-chan and Kai-chan said I was muttering about flowers for a while those first few times I was awake.”

“And I knooooooowww,” he groaned, slipping back into teasing anyway. “I’m the worst! But ya gotta give me another chance to prove my worth as a host! It’s only fair!”

Figuring that she was making the rounds, Kokichi nodded, giving a small nudge of his own to his friend before she stood up out of his reach. “I appreciate it! It’s good to see you, and I hope the rest of your Hanami is good! I think Shuu-chan and I are just enjoying the scenery, though…”

Tilting his head, Kokichi didn’t want to speak for Shuuichi. “You good?”

Shuuichi nodded, “No complaints here. Thank you for asking, Amber.”

“Good! I’ll totes see you beauties later! Ciao!” Amber said, giving them both a wave before strutting off further down the hill, heading towards the wooded area. 

Watching her go, Shuuichi said, “She’s the nice sort. If a little extra, sometimes.”

“Amber in a nutshell,” Kokichi hummed fondly, resting his head back on Shuuichi’s shoulder. “She likes to live unapologetically and with a lot of fun, and it makes being around her a lot of fun too, since she encourages other people.”

He snorted softly, reminiscing. “I was so nervous when I talked to her at that club, but she just...immediately was open to it and took me in. I was a little drunk, but...it was so nice and welcoming… I feel really fortunate to have her friendship, even after our night out.”

Shuuichi nodded at that… before snorting a little. “I ever tell you how Kaito and I met? It’s not a big story, but it’s a little funny.”

“I don’t think so… I know Kai-chan’s said he got a little enamored with you and Maki-chan when you met, but...I don’t think he’s ever told me how that happened. It was because your mentors work in the castle, right?”

Shuuichi nodded, though… “I think it’s hard to convey to you how… big the Luminous royal castle actually is. I lived there most of my life and can honestly say there were entire wings I never went to. There are entire wings no one really goes to, because they're slightly condemned, or their taboo for historical reasons, or no one just uses what the area is dedicated for. I think the castle itself used to be a section of the city that was eventually all connected together and then walled off from the rest of the city. Think if you took a good chunk of the surrounding town and made hallways to all the buildings, and then built continuously upwards. That’s the Luminous castle.”

Looking to Kokichi, he shrugged slightly, “All that to say, living in the same castle, before I started directly serving the royal family personally? Didn’t guarantee myself and Kaito would ever actually meet, or meet more than once. Especially considering Indentured’s had certain areas specifically designated for them, and royalty, if they wanted to, could easily never leave the areas no one else is allowed to go into but themselves. We lived in different worlds, really.”

“Then, apparently, Kaito somehow heard, years after the fact, that I had been involved in a case he had a personal investment in? I’m talking… three to four years later. And he became determined to meet me, thank me for the assistance? Apparently that was all he meant to do, but…” Shuuichi laughed, blushing a little at the memory, “I was a very nervous child, and when I saw the literal second royal prince coming down the hallway, seeking me out… I ran. I literally ran away.”

“I had no idea he was seeking me out specifically. It just seemed like, for a few weeks there, he was everywhere all of the sudden. And I just didn’t want to meet him, was afraid of being around him, so every time I heard word the Luminary prince was around, or saw a glimpse of him, I’d go somewhere else. And Kaito, being who he is, especially back at ten, decided the solution was just to treat me like some skittish cat, and be more sneaky about following me around, trying to catch me at some time where I seemed less likely to run. I literally got stalked by the Luminary Prince for weeks, saw him around corners, had to scope out the indentured eating areas because he would just ‘happen’ to be there at the same time as me… again! No idea he was there looking for me specifically. I just thought I had the worst luck in the world, and Kaito was afraid of freaking me out by approaching me directly, so he kept trying to set up a ‘happenstantial’ meeting with me that I kept ruining by bolting for it every time I saw he was around.”

Shuuichi rolled his eyes, chuckling, “It got a little stupid, for awhile there.”

Kokichi...really couldn’t imagine how big the castle was, even after Shuuichi explained it. A partial city made into a castle, parts just...abandoned. It still bothered Kokichi, but...it wasn’t his problem. As long as Luminary didn’t try to take territory, it would never be his problem. 

Laughing softly, Kokichi could...absolutely imagine a tiny Shuuichi just bolting from Kaito. A rambunctious ten-year-old version of Kaito, determinedly seeking out the little enigma. It was very sweet, and very them. 

“Oh my gosh… I can absolutely see that. How did you end up running into each other, then?”

Shuuichi rolled his eyes a little, “Kaito swears to this day that it was a genuine coincidence, but considering everything I just told you… I have my doubts. I’m half convinced he set up a mystery to entice me… because he was entirely calm when I found him. But he says I just happened to catch up with him when he was calmed down… anyway. I was going down one of the hallways, and it looked like a battle had happened through them. Things were broken, decorations smashed… something had happened. And I… was just curious. I should have gone for a guard or for my mentor or something, but I wanted to find out what had happened on my own. So, I started following the destruction? Which, got less and less obvious, the more I left that particular hallway, but I kept finding little signs that the ‘attacker’ was around, little drops of blood, a few oddly adjacent doors… I was nervous, but I don’t know… it was the first time I had just ‘stumbled’ onto an actual crime scene. I felt like a main character in one of the detective stories I read growing up. I was scared and weirdly excited.”

“Finally, I got stuck. There were no more clues, it just seemed to stop in the middle of this random sitting room, with four exists into adjacent rooms, and an upstairs small library. Plenty of places for someone to escape, and I was worried I had lost the perpetrator… and when I looked up, I saw him again. The Luminary Prince, grinning down at me from the upper floor library. He asked me what I was doing. I was frozen. I wanted to run…” 

Shuuichi’s face sobered a little, “Kaito’s very extra, and he doesn’t always think things through, so even saying this, a part of me thinks he planned it this way… but I saw his hand was bleeding and got concerned. It made me not want to run. I accused him of being the one who destroyed the hallway, and he got this real playful look on his face, and denied it. Said I’d have to prove it. And, like… it was so blatantly obvious that it was him, I got offended. Went upstairs, all hot under the collar, and while I was wrapping his hand, explained to him all the extremely obvious evidence it was him. And he kept suggesting other ways it could have happened, which just made me more offended, because then I started having to deconstruct his arguments… I was getting so heated. I literally grabbed him by the arm at one point and brought him to a hole in the wall I found and measured his knuckles against it. And all the while Kaito just looked more and more thrilled, which confused me...”

“And after a while Kaito laughed, put up his hands, and said ‘You got me! You’re amazing!’ and he just started… gushing over me for awhile. Saying he was amazed I had noticed all these little things, and how cool he thought I was, and… it was so bizarre, I just didn’t know what to do but stand there, still kind of mad and a little flattered… it was very strange.” Shuuichi shrugged, “And there was no getting rid of him after that. I couldn’t bring myself to run from him after that encounter, and he was constantly seeking me out. He introduced me properly to Maki-- we had met before, but Maki was in a time in her life where making friends was virtually impossible-- who told me he had basically stalked his way into her life as well… we bonded a lot over making fun of him.” Shuuichi confessed, smiling lightly at the memories, “We’re an odd group, really.”

From how the others described them, that really sounded like one of Kaito’s tantrums. But...it was entirely equally possible that Kaito had worked himself up into a rage, or just went through the motions of one purposefully to try and lure Shuuichi with a case, following the same logic Kokichi had used when he first got the idea for his birthday scavenger hunt. Or...that it really was a coincidence, but Kaito had just...capitalized off of Shuuichi showing interest. His husband could be a quick thinker like that. 

Especially with just...being audacious and keeping Shuuichi engaged. It was almost scarily masterful in creating a rapport between them, and again, Kokichi had absolutely no idea if it was just something that came naturally to Kaito, or if it was a purposeful idea he was acting upon. 

Kokichi laughed softly, thinking of the child versions of his friends and how they had gotten to know each other. “That you are… Kai-chan can be kind of shockingly incredible at times, and...I mean, he’s said it enough himself. You and Maki-chan are amazing people, so amazing he couldn’t keep himself away. That determination is really something.”

“He’s bold, I’ll give him that. I’ve heard just the most random, bizarre things come out of his mouth before, when he’s talking to someone that really interests him. Things that shouldn’t work, and it just seems like a sort of short-cut into the kind of relationship he wants, with that person. Whether friends, or lovers or…” Shuuichi sighed, “I’ve watched him make enemies with people on purpose, too. Always for reasons of his own, but he can be cruel, when he wants to be. Thankfully, he’s never been the type to want to make enemies for no reason, but when he decides he doesn’t like someone? He’s quick to solidify that. It can be alarming. His ‘Momota’ side, really.”

“...it’s actually really something, how much moving to Dicea has changed all of us. Well…” Shuuichi shrugged, “Maybe not Maki… or well, maybe Maki as well, actually. I was reading my birthday letters? Some of them--” one in particular, “--were written very recently and sent here on express to make it to me in time. And if they’re accurate? ...I haven't told Kaito this yet. He doesn’t seem to want to talk about any of it. But there’s a strong rumor that they were going to ask for Byakuya’s execution? And Maki changed it to exile literally the last second… which doesn’t sound at all like her. I don’t know if I believe it yet, not unless I hear it from her, but if that’s true…” Shuuichi shrugged again, “...that’s new. That’s a Dicea thing.”

Kokichi nodded a bit. Kaito was...magnetic. And which side he wanted to show was something he could do at will. Stir up excitement and kinship over little to nothing...or have a few passing words come to blows in just a few minutes. But...he’d at least been more careful with deciding enemies. 

They had all changed, but while Kokichi knew his change had been spurred by meeting his friends and...really, having friends he could talk to freely at all, there were other factors that had spurred his friends’ changes but...living in a new country with an entirely different culture was a huge factor of that. 

Kokichi could still think of a few things, regarding Maki at least changing her views on things, but his eyes widened as Shuuichi shared one really big thing. And...Kokichi wasn’t sure if he blindly believed it either, but…

A small, proud smile came across his face. “...even if she did end up just...agreeing to exile...there were probably other factors going on,” he softly agreed. “But...I dunno. It’s a Luminary matter involving Luminous people. But from my own perspective...I’m kinda proud. I told Maki-chan before she left, and I reassured Kai-chan when things were tough...that I really believed that things could change without death. Executions and assassinations. That’s still not entirely right...but it’s a little closer to it.”

“Guess we’ll just have to wait to hear what really went down, though.”

Shuuichi had more observations to make-- he thought he himself had gotten more aggressive here, and wasn’t sure if that was still a temporary hormonal thing or a personality thing, and he thought Kaito had gotten… slower, maybe. More withdrawn and internalized, generally-- but before he could talk about any of that, “We’re h~eeeeere!!”

Cali was holding a lawn chair precariously over her head, a little red in the face, likely only having been holding it for the last trek of the journey, as Kaito held a little brown bag of treats, watching her with amusement. Tim and Kimiko were coming down the hill behind them, both of them eating ice cream cones with probably too many toppings, like, how on earth had they not lost the ice cream yet, too many toppings. 

“How’d the trip go?” Shuuichi asked, as Cali ran around the blanket area, still showing off her ability to carry the oversized thing, though she was clearly wobbling near the end. Kaito grabbed the chair out of her hands the second time she passed by him, giving her an amused, raised eyebrow, before placing the brown bag next to Kokichi.

“It went fine. The general store is pretty busy right now, but that’s because all the other stores are mostly closed. Still, we managed to snag one of these for you, handsome.” Kaito explained, opening up the nice, long lounge chair, placing it in the grass before saying, “Let me help you up, we’ll put it under the umbrella. Kokichi, your treat is in the bag, one for you, one for Shuuichi, and Cali wanted one too instead of ice cream. It’s these weird little… gelatin chocolate things? With these elaborate little flower designs in them? Might be actual flowers, I’m not sure, I just thought they were neat looking.”

Kokichi looked over at Cali’s shout, grinning as the rest of their little group returned, eyeing Tim and Kimiko’s towering ice cream cones for a moment. He’d guess there were a lot of ice cream stands around, each doing their own sort of thing. Getting fresh fruits for sorbets or mix-ins was a great treat…

He nodded at the tale of how the trip went, but, wiggling excitedly, Kokichi was a little more focused on the bag placed next to him. Pulling out one of the treats, his eyes widened, “ooh” ing softly at...it looked like a cute little snowglobe, almost. “Oooo...you got some art desserts… Wow, there aren’t even any air bubbles in the top part.”

He almost didn’t want to eat it. Almost. 

Carefully, Kokichi took a small bite of the clear jelly, leaving clear grooves from his teeth. His face went joyful as he chewed, enjoying the fresh lemon taste that he was sure would go nice with both the chocolate jelly on the bottom and the floral taste of the flower encased in it. 

“Thanks, hun!!”

“I got you, babe.” Kaito grinned idly, helping Shuuichi up and letting him scoot aside a bit, before leaning down and scooping Kokichi up a bit, moving him slightly to the right and stealing a kiss for a second before placing him back down to enjoy his treat further. 

Then, placing down the lounger chair, he helped Shuuichi back down, before grabbing his treat from the bag, and passing it over to him. “Here you go, handsome.”

“Thank you, Kaito.” Shuuichi said again, leaning back into the chair with some relief, his back immediately feeling better, before unwrapping his treat and trying it,  “...weird. But I like it. And I think that’s a real flower… are we supposed to eat that?” Shuuichi asked, glancing at Kokichi, figuring he’d know, as Kaito passed Cali her treat next, thanking her for helping to bring the chair. 

“Yupp!” Kokichi chirped, taking another bite of his treat. “It’s a cherry blossom flower. I...think they’re fine to just eat normally? But it’s common to salt them and kinda...like, not pickle them, but kind of the same process with salt? I don’t know how it works, but it brings out a nice perfumy flavor to things.”

Nodding back down the hill to the other food stands he could see, Kokichi explained, “There are probably going to be a lot of edible flowers in stuff available today, since it’s the theme of the festival, and cherry blossoms are super popular, either with the actual flower, or decorations just mimicking what they look like. Little, cute, and pink! Like...I’m definitely gonna snag some sakura mochi when we go back to the plaza later.”

“Oh, but speaking of going places.” Kokichi nodded to Kaito. “Am-chan swung by to say hi while you guys were shopping. She helped out on a bunch of art pieces on display--maybe later it’d be cool to head down and take a look around?”

“Oh, I missed Amber? That’s a shame,” Kaito mused, opening up the picnic basket and bringing Shuuichi his book and a water without being asked, before double checking the thermos containing Kokichi’s next dose of tea-- he shouldn’t need it yet, but Kaito just wanted to make certain, triple checking, they have it-- putting it aside and grabbing some juice for Kokichi, passing it to him. The juice would be good for helping maintain Kokichi’s energy, better to stay ahead of it, though he should pass him some water later…

“She’s hard to miss, you might see her when you go down there. I think you’d like her ‘outfit’.” Shuuichi lightly teased, taking the water and book and leaning back, thoroughly in relaxation mode now. 

Blinking out of his thoughts, Kaito looked down at the area, “Oh yeah? Art pieces and cool clothes are fun… Do you want to make a trip down there now, Kokichi?” Kaito asked, glancing over at the kids, who were already pulling out the frisbee, apparently entirely confident they could eat their treats and play at the same time, “Guys, one or the other! We’re not replacing the ice cream and weird gel thing if you drop it!”

“Kaaaaay!” Cali called back, the three sitting together in the grass, working on their treats in the sun.

“Er…” It would be fun, for sure, but...Kaito hadn’t even gotten to sit down since they got to the park. They had all day to enjoy, yanno, the day, but…

Don’t mindread. 

Kokichi sighed, setting himself straight. “It’ll be fun to see at any time, yanno? So if Kai-chan wanted to sit for a bit and hang out, I’m all for that. Plus, if we’re going downhill later, I don’t want to...make you push me up and down all day. We can do everything in one trip...unless you wanted to go now?”

Tipping his head to the side, Kokichi closed his eyes for a moment, trying to be a little more...decisive. “...how about we wait until we finish eating, and maybe until my dad gets here, so if the kids wanna stay and play, Shuu-chan has some backup?”

“Oh, Ikou’s a good point…” Kaito murmured, looking around like he might see the man appear upon mention. “Yeah, that might be a good idea. I mean, obviously Cali and Kim’s folks are around, but, uh… well,” Kaito looked down the hill at Shirogane… or, where her blanket was, brow furrowing, “...okay, she’s gone. Kimiko, do you know if your mom said she was going to go somewhere?”

Kimiko nodded brightly, still working on her ice cream, “Mommy likes to go meet people at these festivals! She’s probably schmoooozing.”

“Whelp, okay, guess we’re watching Kimiko today.” Kaito said quietly, not put out by the idea, just mentally adjusting to the new information, and looking up the hill… well, both of Calis’ folks were still there. Kaito… supposed he could trust them to keep one distant eye on the kids? ...errrr, maybe not. Cali’s parents didn’t have a great track record, when they were together, of focusing on Cali. Every time Kaito talked to them, they were in a foul mood and seemed to be barely struggling to share the same space. That was a doomed relationship, really… he wished for Cali’s sake they’d just admit it. Oh well. For now he’d just assume Kimiko and Cali were both spending the day with their family.

“...yeah, having Ikou around would help. Let’s wait, hopefully he won’t mind.” Kaito decided, before grinning at Kokichi, “Though, if you’re talking about food, you hungry, babe? We’ve got fruits, sandwiches, soups… or I can make a run for one of the food stalls, if you have something you’re craving? Shuuichi?”

“I’m not quite hungry yet, thank you though.” Shuuichi said, opening up his novel. It was one of Kokichi’s mystery novel gifts. “Though feel free to follow through on your plan, I don’t mind watching the kids later if you guys want to go look at the art.”

Kokichi followed Kaito’s gaze up to Cali’s parents, coming to a similar conclusion that his husband had. They had the kids today. Which was always a joy, so he sincerely didn’t mind--honestly, he was really looking forward to being able to come to training again, both to get back to exercising, and to spend time with Tim, Cali, and Kimiko on a regular basis again. 

(...he was a little worried about Cali’s parents. The girl still had the goal of fighting her mother, but as far as he knew she hadn’t tried to follow through with it yet. And while he didn’t really see her parents often...the tension he felt when he did seemed...ingrained enough for him to take a guess it wasn’t reserved just for those times. He hoped things would get better, in whatever form that was, but...he hoped that Cali knew she could always come to them if she needed to get away for a little bit. It was...sad for a ten-year-old to need that, but it was better to have the safespace available.)

Shaking his head, Kokichi took another bite of his dessert. “Not yet, though I am excited to have a real picnic with you guys! I’m just excited to see what stuff people have made too.”

He was a little late on cue, but coming up from the bottom of the hill, Ikuo’s usual pastel colors really seemed to fit the decorations of the festival, and the man had even traded out his sweater for a floral one, the sleeves rolled up and kept there with the roll of his undershirt just above his forearms. Spotting him, Kokichi lifted a hand to excitedly wave, to which Ikuo’s approaching figure simply nodded.

“Ikou! Hey, welcome!” Kaito greeted, giving the man a little wave, taking in his outfit… his face reddening a little. Cute… the man had no business being that cute. Ridiculous. “Happy Hanami, or whatever the saying is!”

“Hey, Ikou.” Shuuichi also greeted, looking up and giving the older man a slight nod before returning to his book.

Tipping his hat to his sons-in-law, Ikuo grunted back a joyus, “Happy Hanami,” before glowering down at Kokichi, easily coming in for the hug his son was waiting for with open arms. “Happy Hanami, Bunny.”

“Happy Hanami, Daddy!” Kokichi chirped. He’d managed to eat around the flower in the middle of his dessert, so he could show off a smaller, nibbled version of the art. “Look at the cool art dessert Kai-chan got me! I haven’t seen yet, but it feels like everyone’s on their game this year.”

“Some ‘pressive stuff,” the man agreed, before he held up the bag on his arm for a moment. “Brought some ‘a my own ta bring fer the picnic. Cherry-almond tarts.”

Kokichi’s eyes widened, latching onto the bag and already dreaming of more sweets. “Those sound awesome! We really haven’t been here long, though, so we’re not quite ready to eat. Did you go make your rounds already?” 

Ikuo nodded and gruffly and briefly explained the various friends he’d talked to--fellow vets who lived in the city, or came into town for the holiday, some older friends he wanted to catch up with, and even meeting a few new people, like a group of young people he’d stumbled into looking a bit confused with all the celebration, since they’d just moved to Usott in the last week or so. Skittish, but they were a sweet bunch, just needed a little direction.

Ah, so some of the kids were here… okay. Kaito would have to keep an eye out for them. Again, he looked around, like they’d just ‘appear’ upon mention, but he didn’t spot any of the kids or recognize any of the adults as the foster parents around here. Maybe the foster parents had banded together and were together somewhere for the festival… that’s what Kaito imagined he would do in their place. Would let the kids spend time together, let the parents trade notes… it’d make sense.

...he hoped they weren’t causing trouble…

...he hoped no one was giving them trouble…

“Mister Kaito! We’re going to play frisbee! Do you want to play~?” Kimiko sing-songed, part of her cheek covered in ice cream, while Cali started running off, giving space for Tim to throw the frisbee to her.

“Yeah, but come here, Kimiko, you got food on your face!” Kaito called out to her, Kimiko pouting a bit, having been about to gear up to run to Cali, but coming back, taking Kaito’s offered napkin and rubbing her face, waiting for inspection, rubbing again, “Alright, you’re good. Head out there, I’ll join you guys in a few minutes.”

Looking to Ikou and Kokichi, Kaito said, “You can join us if you want, Ikou. Or just chill out with Kokichi, either way. Oh! But would you mind potentially watching the kids a little later? While I take Kokichi around to look at the exhibits?”

“Think I’ll chat with Bunny fer a while longer,” Ikuo hummed. He knew Kokichi would be happy watching his family have fun, but it was nice to give him a talking buddy, especially since it looked like Shuuichi was getting pretty sucked into his book. Plus, he just enjoyed talking with his son. 

“An’ ain’t no problem by me,” he added. “Y’all have fun takin’ in the festival.”

Thanking his dad, Kokichi snorted, raising a bit of an eyebrow. “You’re not going to absolutely school them in frisbee? What, getting old?”

“Damn right. I’ve earned my time sittin’ on blankets an’ watchin’ the younger folk frolic. Ain’t my time ta school ‘em ‘til they beg ya ta play. Saves my back later too.”

Kaito, in turn, did school them… or, well, gave it an honest shot. 

What he could never get over was how fearless they were, to the point of foolishness. They were playing on the incline of a hill, and while at first Kaito wanted to make them work for it, sending the frisbee high and long, he grew increasingly alarmed as the three of them just threw their whole damn bodies at catching it, hill be damned. Cali leapt like she didn’t care if she landed on her feet or not, entirely content to roll down the hill if she landed on her side, and Kimiko was literally running down hill backwards at one point, Kaito’s eyes widening in horror as he just waited for her to trip. 

So, in fear for the girls recklessness, Kaito started doing easier throws… and found himself dodging as Tim seemed determined to treat every frisbee throw like a full scale attack. He leapt for the frisbee in safer ways then the girls did, but with no less full body determination, and he threw the frisbee again the second he got his hands on it, each throw like a hurl of a spear, accurate and forceful. 

Howver, it was Cali’s throw that ended up with the frisbee almost to the top of the hill, and Kaito watched it soar before, taking a deep breath, trying to fill his chest, he said, “Yeah, not it. One of you… oh, nevermind.” Kaito chuckled, “I guess Chase is on it.”

The dog had been perfectly happy to run from spot to spot, just following the frisbee like monkey in the middle , but as the kids started bee-lining up the hill to retrieve the lost frisbee, Chase was on a full on bolt, heading up to grab the frisbee. 

She managed to snatch the frisbee in the air, ran back to the kids, meeting them halfway… and then apparently, last minute, decided being the one to have the frisbee was more entertaining then giving it up, as the kids at first tried to coax her to approach, before, “Chase! Come back here! Hey!”

Kaito watched as the dog ran off, the three kids in hot pursuit. “Whelp…” Kaito mused, watching them run around the hill, dodging the other blankets, still catching his breath “Hmmmm… should probably… stop them.”

Kokichi and Ikuo watched the game like spectators, commenting on every full-force blow and maximum torque throw, Ikuo seeming a little more amused, since it was one of the first time he’d seen the kids knuckle down into what they were doing. The kids’ dedication was almost alarmingly encompassing at times. 

Laughing a bit as Chase made off with the frisbee and started a weird game of reverse tag, Kokichi shook his head, looking fondly at his panting husband. “Probably. But if you call Chase here, then the kids will follow--a little easier for your ‘pushing thirty’ lungs, huh?”

“Not even the youngest anymore an’ yer still pokin’ fun like it’s yer job,” Ikuo huffed. “It’ll happen ta you too before ya know it. Nothin’ will make ya feel older than havin’ a baby, an’ seein’ her sprout sev’ral years ev’rytime ya blink.”

Kokichi placed a hand on his chest, closing his eyes with dignity. “I am prepared. But that doesn’t mean that you all won’t forever be older than me, and that needs to be addressed too. I’m fulfilling my social duty.”

“Who’s pushing thirty!? I’m only twenty-four!!” Kaito shouted back, a vein throbbing slightly in his forehead, glaring at Kokichi, wanting to make some joke about how Kokichi was just barely not jail-bait… but literally every joke he thought of was sexual in some nature, and Ikou was right there… tsk. Kokichi using parental figures to save himself from some… sick burns…

Which they totally would be! If Kaito could think of any, they’d be so sick! 

Though, Kokichi’s idea to call Chase would probably work. She was basically a good dog, and more importantly, she was pretty used to Kaito having a treat on him to convince her to come, since Kaito wasn’t one of her normal trainers and had long learned he needed that extra help to get her to pay attention. 

Putting two fingers in his mouth, “PSSSS-WWIIIVVV!” 

With a sharp whistle, Chase looked up, knowing that sound meant Kaito, and in turn, meant treat-- she bolted pass the kids, jumping over a pour couple trying to sunbathe in peace, before running up to Kaito, tail wagging as she dropped the frisbee, awaiting her treat. 

“Yeah, yeah, good girl, here you go.” Kaito whispered, taking a treat out of his pockets, one of the two he was carrying for the day, and feeding it to the dog, while the kids finally managed to catch up.

“I’m rounding,” Kokichi innocently shrugged.

“...ya never really were one fer math.”

Holding down a few snickers, Kokichi watched as Chase immediately turned. She was a very good girl, and while she could be mischievous, she knew when to calm it. A bit like Tim, really. Kokichi wasn’t sure how much nuance a dog could pick up, but maybe that was where she learned some of her mannerisms. 

Ikuo got up from his spot next to Kokichi, giving Chase a few pets before he gave Kaito a nod. “If ya need a break, I can take over. Go enjoy the festival with ‘Kich’ a bit, son. Th’ tykes don’t look like they’re done with their game yet.”

They were not, immediately grabbing the frisbee and, with all the energy in the world, immediately going back into their game, Kaito watching in dumbfounded concern as Cali leapt for Tim’s throw, fell face and chest first into the dirt, and got back up again like it was nothing as Kimiko went to grab the lost frisbee, running like she was bouncing onto her tip toes, almost floating, and with a weird amount of precision in her steps regardless.

Kaito watched them for a moment… he really couldn’t get over, sometimes, how capable the three were, and how much more fluid and strong their movement got every day, even when they weren’t actively training anymore. All three of them had so much potential to be such skilled fighters…

Sighing, Kaito chuckled a little warily to himself, before dismissing that particular daydream from his head, heading back to Kokichi and Ikou. He supposed any parent would want, at least a little, for the kids they raised to succeed where they themselves had slipped up. But Kaito didn’t want to do that to Tim. 

“Yeah? You ready, ‘Kichi? Shuuichi, you okay with that, handsome?”

“Mmm?” Shuuichi asked, not looking up from his book, “Okay with what?”

“Me and Kokichi heading down to the art exhibits?”

“Mmmm.” Shuuichi hummed again, sounding a little like he was affirming yes, it was fine… or maybe just felt like making a noise, clearly still engrossed in his book.

“I think that’s a yes.” Kaito chuckled, giving Ikou a thankful look as he said, “You’re sure you’re good? They’re good kids, but sometimes they forget other people are… ya know.” Kaito gestured to the other people on their blankets, “Around. They have a bad habit of making their play area too wide.”

“Yeah, let’s do it!” With a deep breath, Kokichi started maneuvering himself back closer to his chair, wanting to see if he could get into it himself too. 

And as he worked on that, Ikuo took a look over to the kids before giving Kaito a nod. “Kids’ll be kids, but I’ll rein ‘em in where I can. Keep it a day ev’ryone can enjoy. Safely,” he nodded again. The kids were playing hard, but Ikuo could tell the difference when some real risky business was gonna be going on. 

Raising a hand as he lightly jogged over to the kids, Ikuo called out if they had room for one more in the game, leaving the princes to their exploring, and the detective to his reading. 

Huffing and puffing a little, a little flushed in his cheeks, Kokichi gave Kaito a determined look from where he was placed back in his seat. “I’m ready when you are!”

Kaito grinned, incredibly pleased by that-- the kids weren’t the only ones getting stronger all the time-- before giving him a small kiss on the cheek, “Yeah? Hell yeah, let’s go. Let’s go see what this festival has to offer.”

Taking the wheel chair handles in hand, Kaito unlocked it, before heading carefully down the hill. He glanced over his shoulder at one point to double check on the kids, hoping they wouldn’t give Ikou too much trouble, but… well, they seemed alright. 

Heading down to the wooded areas, Kaito could smell the warm heat of the food stalls littered around the area, warm meats and strange spices, as the shade of the trees fell over them. Kaito wasn’t entirely certain where exactly they were supposed to go, but was under the impression that any direction would lead to something, so he just picked a path and went with it.

Kaito was about to ask Kokichi if he had somewhere he wanted to go first… but closed his mouth as, almost out of nowhere, an older couple moved from one path to theirs, spotting Kokichi, carrying a platter of something as the older woman said, “Prince Kokichi! Happy Hanami! We have a vanilla mousse with raspberries to share with you, if you have a moment!”

Kokichi was excited to see the rest of the festival. Sure, he’d seen it before, or at least parts, since it was generally easy to steer clear of the more active things and just take a more leisurely and Aiichi-approved path through everything. And while he likely wouldn’t be participating in any this year either, it was still exciting to just...look around and know his freedom. 

And, yanno, just to enjoy Hanami as it was. Kokichi took a deep breath as they neared the bottom of the hill, his mouth watering from all the smells and attention pulled all around by the bright decorations. And...by people too. 

Kokichi smiled as a couple came up to him, unsurprised by the show of food, even if he hadn’t been there for the opening ceremonies. “Happy Hanami! Aww, thank you, that looks amazing… My husband and I are on our way to see all the new sculptures; have you seen them yet? Apparently there’s a cute, tiny elephant that I’m definitely looking forward to seeing!”

He was kind, making conversation, but...he tried to keep things moving. He didn’t want Kaito to be stuck just kind of...hanging around while people tried to feed him and get in their greetings.

The older couple gushed, beaming down at Kokichi, as they explained that they had seen a few of the figures already, and it looked like a lot of the artists had been inspired by animal life this year, saying how much they had adored this display of small, swinging monkeys hanging from some of the trees, as the older gentleman took out a small, sample size bowl of mousse, offering it to Kokichi. Kaito looked around as more and more people noticed the situation, starting to head over…

Kaito considered all the food that was coming there way, and how Kokichi couldn’t really hold that much down right now… leaning down, Kaito whispered into Kokichi’s ear, “Do you want to eat all of this?”

It was sweet, as it always was, but… Kokichi turned slightly, smiling at Kaito and murmuring back while he was close, “I don’t think I can… Let’s try and keep moving?”

Back to the couple, Kokichi chatted a little more, but there was a definite...hesitancy to him. Less open to just taking everything as he had always done. Though, he did take the mousse, sharing his thoughts--’oh wow! These raspberries are super bright and juicy!’--though he tried to keep that brief too. 

Kaito nodded, looking at all the approaching people, wondering what he should do… before glancing at the tray the older couple had.

Darting to the older woman, Kaito grinned wider, lowering his shoulders and automatically putting his hands behind his back as he saw the somewhat alarmed look on her face as he approached her, before he quietly asked her if she wouldn’t mind letting him borrow the platter. When she gave him a wary, somewhat distasteful look, Kaito threw a sheepish, meek look on his face and promised he’d bring it back to wherever she wanted him to bring it. But he could really use it to help out Kokichi…

The older woman clearly wasn’t a fan of Kaito, but at the idea that it could help the Dicean prince, she agreed to let him take it, telling him to leave it with the castle kitchen staff and she’d come get it tomorrow. Armed with the platter tray, Kaito put it on Kokichi’s lap, and said, as the next few people came up, “Happy Hanami! We’re not ready to try any of the food today, Kokichi’s still in recovery, but if you leave it with us we’ll be certain to enjoy it later!”

The few people who had arrived looked startled at the idea, before looking to Kokichi for confirmation.

Kokichi perked a little, but immediately caught onto Kaito’s drift. Widening his eyes, giving an apologetic look to the crowd forming, Kokichi nodded. “I really would love to try all your food and share my thoughts but...I’ve only started eating solid food again the other day. If I want a chance to enjoy treats at all today, I have to pace myself. I’m sorry about this, everyone.”

He did want to try all the food, wanted to give that burst of pride to people. But he really couldn’t do it in the rapid fire way he generally did during festivals. 

Kaito had to hold back a snicker as his husband gave the crowd his extremely efficient example of puppy-dog eyes, any annoyance or offense at Kaito ‘ruining’ the tradition immediately melting as the crowd, one after another, assured Kokichi, of course, of course, you take your time, here, take this for later, this will keep well, here you go prince Kokichi, enjoy, take your time, enjoy. 

And without Kokichi actually having to taste the food and comment on it, it wasn’t long before the crowd was able to be pursed through, Kaito gently but insistently pushing Kokichi forward, until finally the crowd was far enough behind them that Kaito let out a little, “Phew… people really love this tradition, huh? You guys have so many festivals, and they do that every festival… it’s amazing you’re not a little butterball, Kokichi.” 

Kokichi smiled gratefully at everyone who came forward, thanking them for their generosity, wanting to share food with him, and understanding that he wasn’t in top form just yet. There was still conversation, but it was quick, and while Kokichi now had a tray full of food, he was through all the people in record time. 

“Hoo yeah…” Kokichi tipped his head back, giving Kaito an amused look. “In fairness, it’s just little samples, and not full dishes, but...it’s a lot. I think the times I’ve actually been able to gain weight were years where I made it to every festival. ...though, that’s a little misleading, ‘cause if I made it to every festival, that means I probably wasn’t sick as often, but still.”

Kokichi looked forward, but there was still a little smile on his face. “...it’d be good if I gained some weight from this, hm?”

Kaito glanced over Kokichi’s head, down at the sample tray, noting how many sweets there were, and said, “Maybe not just from this… but a few sweets pounds isn’t terrible, no. Though, if you can’t get through it all today, well, if you won’t tell anyone, I won’t tell anyone that I ate some of them. If they ask later, just say it was delicious. I mean, they probably are, right?”

Kaito didn’t say that he was absolutely determined to get Kokichi back to a healthy weight again. He tried not to say stuff like that just yet, not wanting to overwhelm Kokichi, who was still trying to get back to ‘can move’, let alone healthy weight. But they were gonna get there. Kaito maybe wasn’t able to spend that much time in the kitchen right now to actually practice, but he had borderline memorized some of Kokichi’s favorite healthier recipes by this point, and he was planning to be able to make Kokichi’s meals he wanted to actually eat whenever his husband so much as idly wondered about it. 

The very first art exhibit they found, Kaito almost accidently walked right by, for a second mistaking the crane like birds for the real deal, probably having just wandered towards the festival for scraps of food… before he realized these cranes were a tad too shiny, and too still, and too… bejeweled. And giving them a second look, he wondered how he had ever mistook them for the real thing as he said, “Oh! Check it out, ‘Kichi, we found one.”

Kokichi snorted, snickering a little to himself. Kaito was determined to make sure he had well-rounded meals. And that was why Kokichi hadn’t really wanted to just get through as many treats as he could before his body started to object--he knew that they had meal food for their picnic, and as much as Kokichi was happy to subsist on sweets, his desire to have a nice picnic in the park with his family far outweighed his preferences on they types of food he’d eat. 

“Maybe I’ll just write up an opinion piece and send it to the paper… They print food reviews from average people time to time. I wouldn’t be able to name anyone, but by recognizing the food, it’d kind of have the same effect… But, yeah, feel free to have some, hun. Even with a lot of time, I...still don’t think I can get through it all.”

Considering the art pieces--at least some of them--were meant to be lasting installations in the park, they were going to be scattered around, not really specifically highlighted, though there would be a little more presentation than the average day to day. So...they would just kind of have to find them. 

And the first one? Kokichi could tell immediately why the artists would’ve asked Amber for a collaboration. 

Kokichi laughed in awe and delight, leaning forward slightly, though he made sure to keep the tray secure in his lap. “Wow… Am-chan wasn’t kidding! This is amazing! Look at how they highlighted the tips and edges of the wings!”

“That’s a great idea, ‘Kichi. People who recognize their samples being talked about could cut out the review and save it for the memory of it too.” Kaito reasoned, giving his husband a fond look. 

Though, he looked back to appreciate the cranes. It really was something to look at. “I like the way the different types of metal just seem to melt into each other… I wonder how they do it? I’ve always thought blacksmiths were really impressive like that. They can do such impressive stuff, and it’s really challenging to do even the simplest things with them… I tried making a sword once.” Kaito grinned, waiting a moment before continuing to push Kokichi, off to find the next piece.

“Long story short? I made a wobbly metal stick. But the castle blacksmith was nice enough to let me try, and man, I had these big dreams of making these giant, sharp, beautifully ornamented swords… but blacksmithing is hard, ‘Kichi. And hot. So hot. I almost passed out trying to make my wobbly metal stick. Never tried again after that. Wasn’t for me.”

Kokichi nodded slightly, still enraptured by the sculpture, but agreeing with his husband wholeheartedly. “Like...the entire thing they do is work with molten metal. And then...you can create amazing, intricate works of art, like these, or blades so fine and sharp they can practically slice the air! And some are both!”

He turned back in interest, listening to his husband talk about his first--and, apparently, only--foray into blacksmithing. “...in fairness, there are swords that are literally wobbly metal sticks. But for your first time? That’s still pretty amazing… Probably gave you perspective and helped your love for weaponry grow, right?”

“...ooooor was just hot and tiring,” Kokichi chuckled, a little amused at himself for getting so philosophical so easily. 

“Sometimes Mr. Izayoi, the blacksmith right by Seiko’s? He’ll sharpen or straighten blades outside his shop. It’s pretty cool to watch, and I bet seeing the process in full is even more amazing.”

“It gave me perspective for how hot 3,000 degrees actually is.” Kaito mused, shaking his head at his waaaaay over confident sixteen year old self had been, and how epically he had been schooled. “I thought I was pretty in shape when I tried it? By the end of that night, it was like I was a seven year old with noodle arms again. I actually couldn’t physically lift the damn thing out of the forge the last time I had to pull it out, one of the apprentices had to give me a hand. I did hang that wobbly metal stick up on my wall though, when it was cooled. I was proud to have gotten that much done.”

The next things they found was the hanging monkeys that the older couple had gushed over, and Kaito could understand why. There was something playful, whimsical, about the figures, beautiful, copper ‘fur’ melting and bleeding into silver ‘paws’ and lines down their face. And, on top of that, the face and certain designed into their elbows and joints, along with the vertebrae down their neck and into the fail, were intricately designed with bright, colorful jewels. 

Kaito looked at the monkey with some appreciation… before musing, “We couldn’t do something like this, back at Luminary. Like, just leave these in the park, I mean. Someone would pry the gems off… there’s a lot of wealth in these designs. They’re treasures in their own rights.”

Kokichi snorted softly. He could imagine. Mr. Izayoi usually wore a big red coat, but sometimes during the summer he’d take it off and...hoo boy. A young Kokichi sneaking around the city was definitely sweating, and not just because of the sun. 

He...hesitated in asking if Kaito thought it was still in the castle. If his books had been given away, then...Kokichi didn’t think there were a lot of Kaito’s belongings that were still around. And...asking about the Luminary castle, and the things and people in it weren’t the...best subjects to talk about right now. 

Kokichi gasped in awe yet again as they came to the monkeys, eyes darting around the forms of creative license. He could tell these were at least headed by a different artist than the cranes, but they still were undoubtedly from the same collection of art. A true collaboration… He wondered if all the pieces he’d be able to see like that…

“In the fact that they’re art, too,” Kokichi softly added. He knew what Kaito meant, but...well. He was a hypocrite sometimes. Sometimes Kokichi really would just leave it be. Others...he wanted to...gently share his own view. “Just looking at them you can tell that a ton of people put countless hours and days of work into them… They’re priceless.”

“Mmmm.” Kaito hummed, still just looking at them. They were very pretty… priceless? Well, maybe to someone. He wondered what they were actually worth. “‘Kichi, do they donate these pieces for the festival, or does the city commission them?” he asked, genuinely curious.  He was gonna guess donated though. They had a ‘passion project’ look to them.

Sniffing the air, Kaito realized he could smell meat… looking around curiously, he saw a food stand advertising meat skewers. “Also, babe, you mind if we stop and grab one of those guys over there? The skewers? It smells great…”

“It’s...ssssort of both?” Kokichi hummed, trying to remember the actual full process. “Artists apply for spaces to display their work in the city--not that any, like, get denied? But it’s to manage space and make sure that everyone’s able to display their work. So, they apply for a space, make and install their sculpture, and nice! Public art!”

“But because it’s public art, it’s a public service, you know? So people--patrons of the arts, they’re referred to in documents--routinely donate money to the people who have their work displayed. So, artists have their work compensated, and by now it’s pretty routine and expected, but they don’t really...go into it expecting the money, you know? There’s nothing binding to it, though I imagine the exposure is pretty solid…”

Nodding--he was pretty sure that’s how it went--Kokichi followed Kaito’s indication over to one of the stalls. “Oh, sure thing! If Kai-chan wants to stop anywhere, this is a blanket yes, okay? Let’s get some skewers!”

“Thanks babe.” Kaito grinned, giving the monkeys one last look, before heading over to the food stall.

It was a simple skewer of a variety of differently seasoned steaks and sausage, and Kaito gave the man running the stall a grin and a thank you, along with some coin, before saying to Kokichi, “I know you don’t want a full one, but you want a bite, babe?”

While it wasn’t exactly spurring on a huge appetite for him--Kokichi could look forward to food, sure, but nothing really made him feel like gorging himself these days--Kokichi still took a deep breath when they neared the stall, enjoying it immensely...though maybe not as much as Kaito, with his carnivorous tendencies. 

“Mmm…” Kokichi hummed, taking stock of his stomach, “...m’yeah, I’ll take a bite! Thanks for offering, hun!”

Taking them off to the side, Kaito squatted down, leaning back against a tree, holding the clean end of the stick and, to not lose the piece of meat entirely, took one of the steak pieces into his hand and firmly pulling it off the stick, watching it tear in half and, quickly, biting off the hanging bit, swallowing it down before it fell.

It was good meat, not too chewy, not stiff, though… Kaito winced instinctively as he tasted something a little hot. Some sort of heated spice… and was relieved when the heat didn’t build. Probably some sort of pepper. That was okay then. 

Kaito passed Kokichi the half piece, telling him, “I know I’m probably fussing too much, but wanted to make certain you weren’t gonna, like… choke on it or something. I can give you a full piece if you want, though. Also, wanna try one of these samples? While we’re stopped anyway?”

It was a soft, simple sort of activity, fussing over little samples of food, looking at art pieces, but Kaito was honestly a little relieved for the break. He honestly wasn’t thinking that hard about anything, right now, despite Kokichi’s concern earlier that they were coming across another hard cultural difference. Kaito… really didn’t care, how much the exhibits were worth. Didn’t have anything more than idle curiosity for how they got there, or what the artists got in exchange. Was more curious how the festival itself worked because, well… Kokichi would know how the festival worked. And Kaito liked to give Kokichi a chance to talk at length about things he knew a lot about. Enjoyed taking an interest in things Kokichi found interesting.

...but Kaito was tired. 

Not physically, just mentally. A deep down tired. Kaito felt sort of… stretched and worn out. He didn’t sleep well very often. It was starting to kind of catch up to him, and his body was more or less on automatic these days. 

It wasn’t even a bad feeling. Kaito had felt bad before and this wasn’t that. He just… didn’t have the energy right now to think too terribly hard about anything. At least not about things that weren’t the drawing in his underwear drawer or the kids back on the hill or the kids somewhere around here or his brother’s journey to Novoselic or Kaede’s upcoming ‘official’ coronation, or Kokichi’s health or Shuuichi’s health or Miyako’s upcoming whole life…

Nothing else really felt like it mattered. 

“...I bet I could make sausage.” Kaito pondered, looking at the meat skewer. He hadn’t tried sausage yet. How hard could it be?

Kokichi accepted the half piece of steak, giving Kaito an amused look as he popped it in his mouth. Hmm...just a bit of seasoning, but light. Really letting the flavor of the meat come through--probably right down Kaito’s alley then!

“I get it, hun, and that was a perfect size! It’s good!” He took an appraising look down at all the small portions of food on the tray on his lap. He still had the stomach to eat a little more, especially since everything was so small. Nodding, Kokichi picked up what looked to be a cluster of fruits and nuts, held together with...some sort of toffee? Or hardened honey? It seemed good, in any case, and Kokichi munched through it, taking a look out towards the other festival-goers as he ate. 

A lot of people walking around with their kids… Oh! Kokichi was sure he saw that person at the Friday dance! With something of a smile, he noticed...a pair of siblings? Maybe? The younger lingering, giving the skewer stand a longing look, while the older paused with a soft laugh, starting to lead the way through, apparently giving some okay to stop and get food. 

“...I try not to think about how sausage is made,” Kokichi hummed. “Though I don’t even know it in detail… But considering, like… “traditional” sausage is made from intestine lining? That’s something I could live without thinking.” 

“Is it?” Kaito asked, also watching the people coming and going. Chewing idly on the sausage as he admitted, “I have no idea how sausage is made. I just sorta assumed they mushed a bunch of different meats together. I think someone told me once sausage is made of leftovers… I never really thought too hard about it. How’s sausage made then, ‘Kichi?”

Kaito grinned, looking over at Kokichi with a raised eyebrow, “Unless you couldn’t bare to explain it?”

Kokichi looked up at his husband, grimacing. “If I do, I’m gonna make myself a vegetarian for a while, Kai-chan. I have before. If I think too much about farm-to-table preparations of meat, I just gross myself out and I can’t do it. It’s gross enough just handling raw meat in general…”

“Don’t wanna think about ‘mushing meat’ either,” he shuddered.

Kaito snickered at that. “That’s fair. It’d be kind of a bummer if you went vegetarian, babe, but I’d support you. Still, if we can avoid it, probably would make things easier for me, recipe wise… or maybe not? I dunno, there’s probably some interesting vegetarian recipes I could try… could ask Chako. I bet she’d know.”

He kept munching on his little ‘mystery’ meat pieces, looking out into the festival, watching as people came and went… he liked peoples clothes around here, as the weather got warmer. It was funny, how it wasn’t really that hot here, but people still wore almost nothing, sometimes. Like was boiling out or something. Kaito had briefly considered wearing a jacket today, just because it looked nice and he wanted to look nice, but he was glad he had decided to just wear a v-neck. He’d have looked a little strange in a jacket. 

Then, glancing at Kokichi’s little sample dishes… “Can I try that banana mousse one? It looks nice.”

“There are plenty of options, but I do enjoy meat. Just not thinking about it,” Kokichi hummed, putting a hand over his mouth as he spoke with his mouth full. “I know there’s a lot of cool stuff you can do with mushrooms...and that’s good for vegans too. Mmmm...I know there’s a good recipe for making king trumpets that’s, like, the way you’d make a fancy steak. That could be fun to try out.”

He was wearing shoes, but Kokichi let his legs dangle off of the little footrests, enjoying the feeling of the grass against his ankles. Maybe later he’d lounge out a bit, lay his legs in the grass while the rest of him was on the blanket. He’d probably have to put more sunscreen on his legs…

“Yeah, go for it!” Kokichi grinned up at his husband before looking back out at the crowd and the festival. “...it’s a really lovely day for this. Perfect festival weather. I think you guys’ll be right at home during Zenith, but I’m absolutely taking shade breaks.” Kokichi groaned a bit, slumping. “It gets so hoooooooot…”

Kaito finished his skewer, tossing it into a nearby bin, before grabbing the little sample of mousse, taking the tiny sugar spoon that came with it-- honestly, like it wasn’t sweet enough-- and enjoying the taste of the banana. “I believe you,” Kaito said, mostly to appease his husband, reaching over and patting his head a bit, before finishing his mousse. “This is really good, by the way. Banana mousse… very banana. Very mousse-y. You can quote me on that one…”

Kaito chuckled, “Maybe don’t actually quote me. You can say you said it. I think they’d be bummed out if they heard it wasn’t you.”

Looking around, he watched the people… before leaning into Kokichi, whispering, “Alright. So… who here do you think here is a total weirdo in their off time? Like…” Kaito pointed, just a slight gesture, towards a woman in a heavy shawl and bottleneck glasses, and a wide straw hat, and honestly, was very nice and sweet looking, but that wasn’t the point of the game, “Her? I bet you anything, she fossilizes and decorates dead bugs… oh, wait…” Kaito winced, “Nevermind, not those, uh… shoot, my bad babe. Was trying to think of something funny, did I creep ya out?”

“Very banana; very mousse-y--noted. That’s one comment in my op ed done.” Kokichi giggled a bit, indeed actually putting it to memory. He really was going to try to remember all of the samples people had given him, not wanting to leave anyone out. He was just a person, and a non-Shuuichi one at that, but...he could try. 

Raising an eyebrow, Kokichi glanced out to the crowd as Kaito whispered to him. Just...naming weird hobbies for people to have? 

While he wrinkled his nose a bit, Kokichi reached up to pat Kaito’s hand. “I’m good, it’s okay, hun. Really...I don’t know why anyone would wanna keep a reminder, but better collect dead ones than alive ones...I guess.” He huffed, shaking his head of it. 

He looked back out at the crowd, wanting to participate in the game, and pointed out a man probably a bit older than them, looking tired, but pleased to be walking around the festival. “I bet he eats oranges and other citrus fruits like apples. Just taking a big bite into them.”

“Oh my god, no…” Kaito winced, tsking at the older man with clear disappointment. “Buddy, why? Alright, um… hmmm… okay, that kid? The teen with the bob haircut? She makes finger puppets specifically of people she finds attractive, just so she can do…. This.” Kaito grinned mischievously, taking both of his index fingers and pushing them together, tapping them a few time and giving Kokichi a wink. “Wish fulfillment. She’s gotten really good at it too! The puppets are very convincing.”

He tapped a few more time, before holding out his index finger to Kokichi, “Kiss for my imaginary finger puppet?’

“Oh, that’s a weird one,” Kokichi hummed. “And not the first time Kai-chan has talked about dolls kissing.”

Raising his eyebrow as Kaito held down his finger, Kokichi tilted his head to the side with a smirk. “Wouldn’t you rather have a kiss for your real self?”

In the crowd, the older sibling Kokichi had seen before looked up and over at the princes, smiling a bit at what she saw before shaking her head and heading back over to her sister.

“Well, you know…” Kaito shrugged, face reddening a little, “We’ve all got our childhood hangups. Maybe toys were, ya know… heh, pffff.” Kaito rubbed his face, clearly embarrassed, “I don’t know. Don’t judge me. That’s her weird thing, not mine. I confess to nothing.”

Kaito grinned, giving Kokichi a still somewhat flustered, sheepish look, though he smirked a little at Kokich’s offer. “Well, I mean, my poor imaginary finger puppet’s a little let down… but, eh,” Kaito leaned in and stole a quick kiss, before murmuring, “Fuck that guy.” taking another little kiss.

“I wouldn’t,” Kokichi honestly said, “And I don’t judge her for it either. As long as you’re not hurting anyone? People can have as many weird hobbies or quirks as they like, as far as I’m concerned.”

Kokichi gently cupped Kaito’s cheek as they kissed once, twice, and Kokichi stole one more for good measure, since good things came in threes. And for a moment, he just looked fondly up at his husband. “...you all good? I’d really be happy to hang out with our family and relax, if that’s what you wanna do.”

“I’m great, babe. And, no, let’s go find more of these art things, then we can head back. Sorry, I didn’t mean to dawdle, I’m just messing around.” Kaito sighed slightly, stretching his arms a bit over his head, before standing up, “Let’s see if we can’t find this famous elephant, yeah?”

Kokichi shook his head a little. “Nah, I don’t mean to rush you.” He paused for a moment, but...ultimately decided to continue. “...I don’t know. You just seem a...little subdued today? So, if you were tired, then I’m just as happy doin’ other stuff, you know? But if I’m just off base, I’m happy to be here too.”

“Do I?” Kaito mused, unlocking Kokichi’s chair and starting to move again, starting to move them back down the paths. “I guess maybe a little bit… it’s not a bad day. I’m happy, Kokichi.” 

“But that doesn’t mean you’re off base. I’m… a little worn down. But, like, not in a bad way. Just in a, ya know… we’ve been pretty… well I guess we haven't been that busy… mmm…” Kaito wasn’t sure what he was trying to say. 

Looking around for the elephant, Kaito said, “...I’m not unhappy. This is a nice day. And I’m just a little tired anyway. But hanging out under the umbrella with Shuuichi or hunting art with you or playing with the kids… that’s all good things. I don’t really care which I’m doing. I’m happy with any of it.”

...Kokichi didn’t disbelieve that Kaito was happy. But…

...maybe he just needed a little rest. Things did tend to seem better after a good night’s sleep, or a full meal, or after a shower. Considering Kaito had already done the last two, maybe he just needed some sleep. 

“...alright,” Kokichi conceded softly, looking back at Kaito for a moment before facing forward again. “...this isn’t me wanting to get rid of you. I love spending time with Kai-chan. But if you wanted to take a day for yourself? I’ll be alright, and I think Shuu-chan would be too. Just...lemme know if you wanna take some time to recharge, okay hun?”

A day to himself? What the heck would he do with a day to himself? He supposed he could work on figurines or cooking or something… maybe spend some time in his shrine? He hadn’t really had a conversation with Atua in a while… well, one that wasn’t ‘please’ this or ‘please don’t’ that…

… that could be nice, honestly. Kaito missed praying. 

“That’s a thought. Maybe I’ll take you up on that…” maybe not just yet. Maybe he’d ask Ikou to be available? Kokichi was getting stronger every day, and Shuuichi wasn’t actually helpless, just tired and sore, but Kaito would feel better to know someone able-bodied was around and available to help them.

Kaito looked around, before smiling slightly, “Hey, ten o’clock. I think I just spotted the elephant.”

Pushing towards the sunny spot in between the trees, a beautiful, big, though not ‘elephant’ sized statue of a… well, of an elephant. The metals, copper and silver and gold, all mixed and swirled together in beautiful, striking swirls, with jewels all crested around it’s forehead and down it’s back, and with solid, crystal tusks, shining in the sunlight, little streaks of rainbow against the sidewalk below.

Kokichi nodded. He couldn’t read Kaito’s mind, couldn’t come up with a perfect solution of what he should do or what he needed. All he could do was...listen, try to be aware, and bring things up with his husband. And from that information, he could offer ideas...and it would be Kaito's decision to use them or not. 

This didn’t seem like anything huge...but the small stuff mattered too. So Kokichi hoped Kaito got some good relaxing and recharging in. 

Looking over at his husband’s indication, Kokichi’s eyes widened, his jaw dropping a little. Amber...was very right to be proud of the tiny elephant. It was just...eye-catchingly gorgeous, and even created its own art! 

“Wow… I can’t even...imagine how to even approach a project like this. It’s incredible…”

Kaito leaned against the handles, looking up at the elephant with some appreciation. “It is… it’s nice that it’s going to stay here. Maybe we can bring Miyako back here before it’s replaced. I’m assuming these guys get replaced every now and again? She won’t remember it, but, well… aww, you know what would be cute? Getting a portrait made with Miyako and the elephant… or, really, just a portrait of her anywhere. I loved looking through those pictures of you as a baby. I want to have plenty of pictures of Miyako over the years.”

“Aww… That would be so cute.” Kokichi laughed softly, imagining their little infant daughter posed by the elephant. Likely with one of them holding her, but...it would be a great picture to have. “The installations do get replaced but...especially since they’ve just gone up, these ones should be sticking around for a while. More than enough time for her to be alright going outside, and to commission a portrait.”

Kokichi tipped his head back a little, affectionately pressing against Kaito in the small way he could right now. “Me too… I wanna be able to have those kinds of moments with her when she’s older, of remembering events and cool times, and being able to share the ones from before she can remember… And it’s just...nice to have them to remember personally too. It’s...a document of good times…”

“...I bet I could fill a whole sketchbook just with drawings of her.”

“I’ll take that as a promise.” Kaito grinned, though, now that he was thinking about portraits and memories… well, Shuuichi probably actually wouldn’t want a portrait of how he looked right now. Shame. But he wondered if Tim would be willing to sit down for one… he was going to start going through growth spurts, in the next few years. Kaito would like one good pic of the kid while he was still a kid. Something he could show to Timothy’s future partners. Maybe he could ask the girls to sit in for one too? Kaito had no idea if they’d still be friends in the far future, but he knew he now wished he had portraits of Maki and Shuuichi with him at that age.

All things to think about. Nice things. 

“Alright. I doubt you’ll be able to eat all of them, not with the picnic and all of your samples and all that, buuuuut…” Kaito looked around and sighed, “We’re already down here. Do you want to pick out some more of those weird artsy dessert things they’re selling around here? We can take them home, you’ll have them for, oh… I don’t know. However long you can hold out without eating all of your sweets. Two, three… hours?”

“An inevitability, really,” Kokichi smirked, winking up at his husband. Love was a big inspiration for art, and...with the affection Kokichi already felt for his unborn daughter, actually seeing her? He would only want to put a pencil down to hold her.

He was so looking forward to her… All of the challenges and roadblocks too. 

Sighing softly, Kokichi took one more good look at the elephant before looking back up at Kaito, and… “...grmmmmmm…” He groaned, making a face, obviously fighting with himself. “I should save room for our lunch, and I know I’ll wanna eat the desserts almost immediately… But they’re really special, and we’re already down here...uuuuuugh.”

Kokichi dropped his head and held up a finger. “I’ll get one! And I’ll hold out on eating it so we can show the others! But when I have less of an appetite, that’s why.”

The look Kaito gave Kokichi was overtly fond, and only somewhat exasperated as he said, “Uh huh. How about this. You can get two, if I hold onto them, and you can eat them tonight or tomorrow. What do you think? One now that ruins your appetite, oooooor two later, when you can space it out better…. I believe in you, Kokichi, you know which is the better deal…”

Kokichi scrunched his face up, giving Kaito a look beyond description. “...whyyyyyyy do you do this to me? Dang...responsible hottie…”

Sighing, he nodded solemnly. “Two for later. But I still wanna show them to the others--that’s half the fun with them, really. I don’t know much about cooking, but art desserts are just mind blowing with how they create some of the stuff they do.”

Kaito chuckled, starting to move the chair towards the food stalls, “There we go, there’s my wise Kokichi. Alright, let’s go see what weird little masterpieces these Diceans have made.”

They spent some time looking through the food stalls, taking their time with picking one, since Kokichi had so bravely made the choice to only get two and needed to make those two count. And Kaito listened attentively as Kokichi gushed over this or that, as usual knowing a shocking amount of intimate detail over small things that Kaito knew almost nothing about. 

As the Luminary Prince listened to his husband explain the myriad of different flowers you could eat and the history of how Dicea had started adding it as a tradition to some of their festivals, Kokichi picking out his second dessert with extreme care and consideration-

“NEVER SAY DIE!!”

Aw, dammit.

Jaime.

Specifically, Jaime, Tyrone, Heidi and Jane all reared up to tackle Kaito, having spotted him in the market and, despite how… weird everything was here… hey! They knew what to do now! It was Prince Kaito! It was wrestling time!!

Okay! Kaito was better prepared this time though! Specifically, he knew who to call for help, as he swung wide, caught Jaime midair, grabbed Heidi from her tackle on the side, let Tyrone go ahead and tackle his leg, and kept steady as Jane tackled his midsection, and once they were all accounted for- “Glen!! Here is not a good place for this!!”

And, out of the shadow of the trees, Hannah and Abel popped out first, rushing forward and, as instructed, grabbing Tyrone and Heidi, pulling them back towards the group, while Jane just laughed and hopped off as well, following them back. 

Jaime, in turn, kept thrashing in Kaito’s arms, and whined, “Come ooooon! Fight me! When did you become a coward??”

“Not in public, Jaime.” Kaito growled, as Glen and Piper walked up, Kaito putting Jaime down and Glen, immediately, thwacking him over the head, Jaime more annoyed than anything that he wasn’t going to get to play again as he winced and rubbed at his head. “You wrestle too rough, you’re going to freak people out and this is a calm, nice holiday thing. Don’t disturb the peace here.” 

Kaito was resisting the urge to yell at the kid, a lot of Diceans already looking at them in either curiosity or concern, as Glen bowed to Kaito, a lot of the other kids hanging around following suit, before saying, “Sorry about that, Prince Kaito. We just saw you and wanted to say hi.”

Kaito looked around, “Where are your foster parents?” he asked, worried the kids had ditched them.

Glen pointed back towards the path, “Around the corner. We just asked to go look around the market a bit… that’s okay, right?”

It was just unrealistic to get every dessert, even if he somehow had the stomach to eat all of them. But to narrow down the choices to pick just two? It took considerable consideration. Since they were the only special desserts he was getting, Kokichi wanted to get ones that sounded delicious--more than just regular enjoyment, since he was sure they were all good, but he wanted something he would remember. But, he also wanted something striking, also for the novelty for himself, but to show the others. Desserts were best experienced when shared! Even if only visually, though he’d absolutely let Shuuichi take a bite if he wanted. 

Eventually he settled on another jelly, but this one was crafted to look like a whirlpool, with little candy lilypads and lotus flowers and frogs on top. Though, the swirling of the “water” was achieved from coiled flowers springing apart in the gel. The other was a little simpler, though still striking. It was a filled, stiff mochi that had the top imprinted to look like flower petals, and was the interesting combination of a lavender mochi with a honeysuckle filling. Kokichi figured there was a little more to it, but he was excited to try and find out for himself. 

Though...later. Because that was their deal. 

Honestly, he shouldn’t have, but Kokichi found himself surprised as he heard a voice call out, and several small forms beelined for Kaito. And...maybe if they were out of the pop-up market? Out in the greater part of the park? They could have some fun wrestling. But in the middle of the market…

Kokichi sighed a bit as some of the other kids came forward, breaking it up, and he smiled at the group, happy to see them regardless. It was...probably very strange, but he hoped they could have some fun at the festival. 

Chiming in himself, Kokichi nodded. “If your parents are okay with it, it’s more than fine. Have you guys seen anything interesting yet?”

Glen looked over at Prince Kokichi and, with somewhat more hesitancy, gave him a smaller bow, still… not entirely certain how ‘murdery’ he felt towards the Ouma’s yet. He… still wasn’t sure what all of this was. If it was some sort of trick, he had to admit, it was a pretty elaborate one… “Uh… sort of, Prince Kokichi…”

“They got flowers everywhere here!” One of the younger kids, four year old Gabel, ran out from behind Savannah’s legs to Prince Kokichi, recognizing him as the weird grown up who wouldn’t stop sitting in the chair and figuring, whelp, it was time to help the guy out again by giving him the news. Leaning against his legs, looking up at him in a mixture of wonder and pute, unmitigated gossip, the small child said, “People here eat them!”

“Gabel, don’t touch Prince Kokichi, get back here.” Piper scolded, going over to scoop the four year old up and take him back to the group, bowing to Kokichi as she did, before rolling her eyes, “And no they don’t… they’re just… decorations or something. No one eats flowers. Don’t eat the flowers!” She barked back to the other younger kids, in a way that suggested this had been somewhat of a recurring reminder throughout the day. One of the kids had a suspicious amount of dirt smeared next to her lips. 

Kokichi gave Glen a soft look, nodding, but not pushing...and he got answers soon enough anyway. He laughed softly as Gabel came forward, listening intently to the news of people eating flowers. Considering the climate in Luminary, Kokichi figured it was more uncommon for edible flowers to show up in standard cuisine...but then, sometimes it was hard to recognize them as flowers. 

He’d been about to reassure that it was fine to touch him, and explain that, yeah, you could eat some flowers, but… He took a look around the group. It...might be easier to just explain that, by default, don’t eat flowers. Kids could be pretty...literal, all-or-nothing thinkers sometimes. And...while he wanted to be open for the kids...for the ones who had understood a little more of what was going on, and had been determined to assassinate him...maybe he shouldn’t openly encourage the kids to touch him. It could...come a little more naturally. 

“Some of them are decorative, yeah,” he settled on. “And a lot of food is styled to look like flowers too. This festival is all about appreciating flowers, since everything is blooming after the winter.”

“Yeah, it’s… something alright.” Tyrone said, scratching his cheek and looking around. He, like most of his friends, were sort of… waiting for the other foot to drop? He had less of an imagination when it came to how bad things could get, and unlike most of his friends, he wasn’t actually all that convinced this was all some elaborate scheme to get them to let their guard down… but, well. The kid was still sort of weirded out by how...weirdly forward and friendly everyone was here. 

Like… it was just a little off putting. Tyrone sort of felt like he was in the middle of some strange play. It hadn’t occurred to him yet that people were just… ‘like that’ here.

“Where’s your kid? And Mr. Saihara?” Heidi asked, looking around for Timothy. She, personally, thought the red headed soldier boy was a cutie. She liked how tense and stoic and ‘mysterious’ he was. Also, like, he was maybe a prince?? That was still a little unclear. Either way, veeeery cool. Heidi had already discussed with her friends the possibility of marrying him someday. Him, or maybe Glen. Or maybe Tyrone. Or maybe that cute guy she had seen on their way down here, looked like an older kid, maybe twelve? She liked stoic guys. They were so cool and mature~ 

“Back on the hill. We’re actually probably going to head back there in a minute. For real, serious question: everyone good? I mean, beyond just still getting used to living here? Anyone need anything at all from me? You can always come to me and ask anytime, but I’m opening the floor now if anything specific comes to mind. Savannah, we’re still going to go talk to some Atuans, if that’s the question?”

Savannah lowered her hand, shaking her head. “I just don’t know where to find the temples… Mr. Wright says he doesn’t think there are any Atuan temples here?”

Kaito hesitated, “That’s a work in progress. There’s probably a few small temples around here that people don’t know about-” there had to be, right? Where were the Atuans’ practicing if not some small, makeshift temple? At the very least there had to be some public shrine somewhere. “We’ll ask them about it when we go talk to them, okay? Anyone else? Anything else?”

No one seemed to have anything really to say. Things were still confusing. But nothing had actually gone wrong yet. 

“Alright then. Look, this is a Dicean holiday, okay? It means a lot to them, so don’t cause anyone any trouble. Just look around, be nice, go back to your foster families if there’s any concerns about anything. Got it? Any weird looks, uneasy feelings, outright aggressive behavior? Don’t handle it yourself. Go to your families and tell them somethings going on.” Kaito instructed, looking specifically to Glen. “...well? I gave you instructions. What do we say?”

Glen sighed, “Yes, Prince Kaito.” the others echoing after him.

Kokichi sighed softly. They had started construction on the temple, he’d heard, but it would still be a while until it was ready for worship. But...in the future, there would be an open space for Atuans to worship together. And a place travelers and people new to the city could look to for their on the road or new worship. 

Again, Kokichi wasn’t...super comfortable with the...authoritative outlines Kaito gave the kids, but...if it worked for them, someone needed to be comfortable doing it. Still, he smiled at the kids. “I hope you guys have fun today too. If the festival’s not your style, at the least, it’s a nice day out.”

Glen gave Prince Kokichi and uncertain, somewhat curious look… before nodding his head. “...thank you. I guess that’s true too.”

Then, looking back at his motley crew of siblings, he said, “Alright, let’s keep going. Everyone keep your hands to yourself. If you’re hungry, remember they said food would be ready by the time we go back. Come on, stay as a group.”

Giving the two princes one more bow, Glen headed forward, the gaggle of children following behind him. Kaito sighed as he watched them go, before starting to push Kokichi back up the path they had first come in by. 

“I swear, I feel like I’m going to have a heart attack every time I see those kids. I am so constantly worried for them.” Kaito muttered to Kokichi, glancing over his shoulder at the disappearing group. “But, I mean… they seem alright, right?”

Reaching up as they started to head back up to their staked out area, Kokichi gently patted Kaito’s hand, wishing he could do more, but...this would have to suffice for now. “They seem okay. Confused and wary...but it hasn’t been long. As long as they’re not in actual danger or animosity...they can adjust at their own paces.”

“It’s alright to be worried… It means that you really care. But...I think it’ll be alright. And we have a lot of failsafes to try and catch things before they really become problems. We’re just...taking things day by day.”

Kokichi looked up, offering his husband a small smile. “You’re being really good to the kids. You’re asking what they need...and you’re doing what you can. It’ll be okay.”

“Yep. Yes. If nothings gone wrong yet, freaking myself out over all the ways it could go wrong is stupid, especially when we’ve got so many failsafes, and so many eyes on it, and they’re good kids, and Diceans, by and large, are nice folk who will be patient with them… yeah. Everythings fine.” Kaito sighed, before chuckling a little, “Let’s get back to your dad before my kid runs him ragged. Plus, we should see when the pole dancing thing is going to get started. It’ll be fun to go watch that.”

It was a bit of a trek up the hill, and there were a lot more people on it now than there had been when Kaito and Kokichi had wandered down, the festival hitting its stride as the day went on and the late birds finally showing up to chill out in the park. Kaito looked around the area and suddenly had a vague desire to maybe set up some sort of… ball game or something? For all the kids. Something that could handle roughly twenty-four, twenty-five kids participating, assuming the smaller kids wouldn’t be playing… but not today. Maybe he could set it up later, when the park wasn’t so full of people, and he wouldn’t have to worry about the kids making a reputation for themselves by playing too rough. Definitely an idea for the future though.

As they were making their way up the hill though… “Cali!?”

Kaito watched as a blur that was definitely pink enough to be Cali rolled past him at high speed, the girl literally tumbling in a ball down the hill. Kaito would be more alarmed, had she not been squealing with laughter as she rolled down… and even then he was still pretty worried when, one both sides, rolled down two more blurs of children.

Katio watched as the kids crashed at the bottom of the hill, collected themselves, and immediately started running back up it. Getting back to their blanket, Shuuichi gave the princes’ an amused wave, as he said, “Kimiko fell down the hill by accident at one point, said it was fun, and the three of them have been doing that now for like twenty minutes.”

Kokichi had nodded along with Kaito reassuring himself, but he almost did a dry spit take at Kaito’s...most likely unintentional innuendo. Sputtering, Kokichi got out a broken laugh. “Pffffffffffffffff, the garland pole, but, yeah, yeah, it’ll be fun.”

He was still chuckling when they approached their little spot on the hill, met partway by a rolling pink blur. Kokichi could barely look up in surprise before he spotted Ikuo waiting near the flattened part the kids were rolling to, who gave him a stoic thumbs up. “No injuries, an’ we chose a spot tha’s not rollin’ inta other folks. Been a good time.”

Shaking his head a little, Kokichi could only sigh, but gave Shuuichi a grin when they got back to the blanket. “We saw the elephant! It’s really something...they somehow swirled different metals into a cool design, and the tusks are a super clear crystal of some type! It was making rainbows on the ground.”

“And Kai-chan and I made a deal so I got two more art desserts, but they’re for later. Wanna take a look!”

“Mmmm, yeah.” Kaito said, raising a mildly confused eyebrow at Kokichi’s giggles. “Garland pole. That thing. Cool.”

Giving Ikou a wave, Kaito brought the chair under the umbrella, in case Kokichi wasn’t up to crawling out of it again, placing it next to Shuuichi so that when the ex-detective sat up, the two were sitting together, as Shuuichi looked curiously at not only the shown off desserts, but the variety of samples Kokichi was carrying around on the platter, as he said, “Wow… those are really pretty. I really like the little vortex looking one. That’s beautiful…”

Shuuichi got a teasing, playful look on his face, as he leaned into Kokichi and said, “Let’s just eat them now behind Kaito’s back.”

“...I can hear you.”

“We’ll send him to go check on the kids down the hill and you can indulge in all the sweets you want, Kokichi.”

“You’re not even whispering!”

Kokichi grinned wide as Shuuichi seemed interested with one of the desserts he’d picked out. He hadn’t made it, of course, but...there was still a sort of pride in having something he thought was cool confirmed by one of his partners. And Shuuichi’s mischievous mood was fun too. 

Giggling a bit, Kokichi leaned over and placed a kiss on Shuuichi’s cheek. “I am an adult, and I can make my own food decisions. But...I’m really not going to have any appetite for lunch if I eat these now, even with Shuu-chan’s help, so...treats for later.”

“Speaking of…” Kokichi looked around a little, watching the kids for a moment. “Considering I’ve been nibbling, I’m alright, but...did you want lunch any time soon, Shuu-chan? We were talking about seeing when the garland pole performance is happening.”

“I’m feeling a little hungry now, yeah,” Shuuichi admitted, smiling lightly at the kiss. He knew Kokichi could make his own choices, but, well… he also knew Kaito could be kind of fussy and pushy, when he was certain he was right about something. Besides, like usual, it was always fun to tease him, Kaito giving Shuuichi a scolding look for putting bad ideas in their Kokichi’s head. “But I’ve been relaxed all morning. I could probably be talked into going to see the dance instead if it’s coming up.”

“Maybe one of our neighbors would know?” Kaito murmured, looking at the various blankets and towels and chairs that were littering the hillside. He’d go and ask them if there wasn’t an alternative, but he’d rather not do it if he could avoid it. He didn’t like talking to strangers here, if he could avoid it. Anyone who recognized him had a… really decent chance of looking genuinely alarmed he was approaching them. He didn’t want to freak anyone out. “Or maybe Ikou knows?”

“There’s probably someone over there keeping track of things until the performance,” Kokichi hummed, sure that there had also been an announcement of the time during the opening ceremony. But...who could remember that? It had been hours! “Let’s ask my dad first, though.”

Kokichi lifted a hand, waving Ikuo down. “Hey, do you know when the garland pole performance is?”

Ikuo seemed to murmur something to the kids before jogging uphill. “Should be in ‘bout half an hour. We all headed over?”

Kaito considered it, peering over to the pole… it wasn’t that far off. Though they’d want to get a good spot to watch, and between Shuuichi and Kokichi, they’d be a little slow getting over there…

Kaito looked to Shuuichi, “You think you could eat a sandwich to tide you over for awhile, and then we’ll eat everything proper when we get back from the dance?”

Shuchi nodded, “Sure. Though, you should ask any of the kids if they’re hungry too, give them the same chance.”

“Right, right… guys! Hey, back up here! We’re making plans and doing things!” Kaito called down to the kids, who all headed back up, somehow??? Still looking entirely fine and unwinded at all despite having been literally running around all day. “We’re gonna go watch the pole dancing thing. We gotta leave soon, but if any of you are hungry, grab a sandwich from the basket, we’ll eat more when I get back.’

Kimiko, for some reason, giggled, but Cali ran to the basket, Shuuichi passing her a sandwich as he was taking one out for himself, “Food, then dance, then food again!!” Cali cheered, incredibly pleased by this idea.

Tim, in turn, walked over to Kokichi, “...do you want to be holding that platter? I can put it down somewhere for you.”

Sounded like a plan. And it meant that it’d be kind of redundant for him to get down from his chair before the show, so...that was one cycle he didn’t need to do now! So he’d be a little more pepped up for both the performance and for lunch!

Again, Kokichi snorted at...okay, this one was on purpose, right? But it really wasn’t the kind of joke Kaito usually made in front of the kids. Still, Kokichi gave his husband a look before focusing in on Tim, at first surprised by his nephew coming to talk, but then touched. 

“Um…” Kokichi looked around for a moment, “I’d appreciate that, Tim. I...wonder if we have room in the basket to keep the food safe while we’re out, though…”

Tim frowned, looking critically at the basket, before taking the platter and kneeling down next to it. 

With all the focus and determination of someone who had, in the past, been tasked to do small, pointless, virtually impossible things on a whim and expected to actually get it done-- and, more importantly, had discovered through this frustrating trial and error way of living that most things were, in fact, possible, at least in some capacity-- Tim started taking the food items out and reorganizing, while Cali and Shuuichi ate their sandwiches. Kimiko, in turn, started to play with Chase, taking the frisbee and throwing it for the dog to return to her, and Kaito went up to Ikou, asking him if the kids had given him any trouble.

Tim… Kokichi gave his nephew a fond look and...left him to it. The worst thing when you got started on a puzzle was for someone to look over your shoulder and suggest things. And if he ended up needing to eat a few samples...it wasn’t the worst thing in the world. 

Ikuo chatted lightly with Kaito, affirming that he had a few little daredevils on his hands, but they were good kids, and hadn’t ended up running into any other festival-goers, though it came close once or twice. Almost mundanely, Ikuo commented that Tim really had an arm on him, and Ikuo had needed to do a hand-spring to get enough height to catch the frisbee. Talented kid.

Kaito grinned, a large spike of pride rushing through him-- hell yeah Tim was talented! Tough little shit! Though… “What’s a hand-spring?” Kaito asked curiously, strongly resisting the urge to just like… pat Ikou’s head. Or give him a hug. Or just kinda pick him up and take him around places. Gah. He was so fucking cute! 

Tim, working quickly, was basically trying to rearrange both the basket and the platter to make room for everything… frowned… tried again… frowned again… damn soup containers… hmmm…. Could layer the sandwiches over them… what was with this thermos? Oh, wait, he knew this, this was the tea stuff. 

Holding up the thermos, Tim asked Prince Kokichi, “Are you supposed to drink this soon? Should we take this with us?”

“Oh! Umm…” He wasn’t wearing a watch, but Kokichi tried to get a vague approximation of how long they had been at the festival, adding in the time they were still at home but after he’d taken his tea… “Good catch, Tim. I...think I should probably take it around now… Could you hand me the thermos, please?”

He was more than steady enough to unscrew the cap and drink it by himself. Still, Kokichi felt himself glancing up at Kaito and...what??

Still nonchalantly, Ikuo had simply said, “One ‘a these, y’anno?” and had immediately made a little room, taking a little hopping step before he flipped over onto his hands, springing himself into the air. Unlike what he’d done to catch the frisbee, Ikuo kicked his legs forward, completing his rotation to flip himself in the air and land back on his feet. Fixing his hat, he gave Kaito a nod. 

….0_0

………….0////////0;;;

The kids watched, confused, as Kaito just walked away and squatted down, throwing his head into his arms and just…. So god damned flustered…. Gaaaaaaaaah…. Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!

“What’s wrong with Mister Kaito?” Kimiko asked, pulling at the frisbee from Chase, who was determined to wrestle it from her.

“He’s just being extra.” Shuuichi said dryly, giving the overwhelmed prince a distinctly unimpressed look… though, admittedly, that move had been weirdly impressive.

Ikuo just looked over at Kaito in similar confusion--he was positive he hadn’t accidentally clipped the man, and Ikuo knew enough about how that felt to be more than sure--though from Shuuichi’s dry tone and the...extended sigh from Kokichi, he wasn’t sure if this was anything from his end. 

In the midst of his sigh, Kokichi put his head in a hand, rubbing at his forehead to try and ward off the metaphorical headache. It’s weird that you’re attracted to my dad, Kai-chan! At least don’t be flustered about him in front of me!

“He can be...dramatic, when people do cool things,” Kokichi further explained in another sigh, unscrewing his tea and taking a deep swig, even if the only thing it brought him was an underlying bitterness under the fruity tea. 

Deciding to leave Kaito to his moment, Ikuo came closer to the others, keeping an eye on Kimiko and Chase while the others were settled, more or less, on the blanket.

...fucking… jumped and twirled into the air… like it was nothing… ugh, get yourself under control, Momota…

...it wasn’t faaaaaaaair….

It took a while for Kaito to compose himself, refusing to get out of his self made ball until his face stopped burning up. Once he was put back together, sandwiches were eaten, teas were drank, frisbees were retrieved and then thrown again… taking a breath, fixing his hair idly, Kaito turned back to the group like nothing had happened at all and said loudly, clapping his hands together, “Alright! We ready to get a move on?”

Kokichi gave his husband a half dry, half amused look as he rejoined the rest of them, figuring there was going to be some talk of this later. But...Tim had figured out a way to rearrange their basket, Shuuichi and Cali had eaten, so… Kokichi gave Kaito a nod, adjusting himself in his seat to get comfortable for the next bit. “I think we are!”

It was safe enough to leave their belongings for the time being, and as their group started up the hill, it looked like they weren’t the only ones in the area leaving their blankets and umbrellas. It was quite a spectacle, so Kokichi wasn’t surprised. 

“Been a while since I saw one ‘a these,” Ikuo hummed. And for the Luminaries, it would be their first. Really, only Kokichi, Cali, and Kimiko knew what to expect. 

Which was...exactly what Kokichi had described earlier. There was a tall pole rooted in the ground with a ton of various ribbons and garlands dangling freely from the top for the time being. There were a few people standing around by the side, chatting, but what separated them from the forming crowd, standing a good bit away from the pole, were their clothes. Brightly colored yukata with various designs, though predominantly floral, and different cuts to suit the wearer’s desire, though still distinctly traditional. 

Kokichi perked up in interest, though it would still be a little bit until the performance started. “I wonder what song they’re going to play for the dance…?”

“Tiiiiimmoooothyyyy!” Called out a familiar eight year old from the distance, a large group of children being sat clear on the other side of the pole, most of them chewing on some snacks, a few looking excited, most confused. Heidi, though, holding herself like she was certain grown up ladies held themselves, jutting her hip out unnaturally and tilting her head to the point where Kaito, seeing this, was vaguely worried the kid was going to hurt herself, was waving at Tim from clear on the other side of the crowd, her friends giggling as she shouted, “Hiiiiiiiiiii~ <3”

Tim just looked distinctly uncomfortable, gave a small raised hand back, and fumed at his feet as Kimiko and Cali looked a mixture of confused and alarmed, peering back at the girl in the distance, who was being shushed and told to take a seat by her adults. “Who is that?” Kimiko asked.

“I don’t know.” Tim replied honestly, “I think she’s one of my moms siblings.”

“So… you’re aunt?”

“Not really.” Tim said grimly, fixedly not looking at the way the girls across the way kept loudly giggling and staring.

Kaito sympathetically patted Tim on the head-- he remembered being in that position. Little girls could be cruel, and it’d probably be decades before Heidi realized she had done anything uncomfortable at all-- telling him, “It’s alright, kid. She’s just playing around, don’t pay her any mind.”

Tim just grunted at that, while Cali was openly glaring now, before whispering, “Should we fight her?”

“What? No.” Kato frowned, “Don’t fight any of the Luminary kids, Cali. I’m trying to stress to them that they don’t fight people here.”

“Why not!? Fighting people is awesome!”

“Cali, shut up, you’ve never fought anyone.” Tim teased.

“I’ll fight you!!!”

“No shouting, we’re at a performance.” Kaito scolded, giving her a hard look.

“...I’ll fight you.” Cali whispered with a huff, while Kimiko just giggled at her.

“What kind of songs do they usually play to this, Kokichi?” Shuuichi asked, sitting in the grass next to him.

Kokichi looked over, a little surprised to see the Luminary kids here, but...maybe their parents thought it would be a good opportunity to experience some Dicean culture without...really having to participate in it. Sure, the crowd cheered and sometimes sang along with the dance song, but...really, all you had to do was watch. It was a good opportunity to sit down and eat, too.

He smiled a bit at the kids’ shenanigans, a little...amazed, still, at the kind of drama and interpersonal hijinx kids got into with each other, but...it seemed that Kaito had it handled. No need for him to interfere. 

Grinning down at Shuuichi, Kokichi explained, “Folk songs, primarily, but...really anything that has a sort of upbeat, positive energy to it? Is absolutely fair game. There was one year they brought a metal band to perform and I still think it was one of my favorite performances--the song they played was called “The Colors of Spring” and...man, I wish I had a record of it. Even if I don’t know if it would be able to capture the energy of the performance.”

Kaito blinked, before leaning towards Shuuichi, “Metal?”

Shuuichi shrugged. No idea. “Maybe they bang metal objects together?” Shuuichi guessed.

Kaito supposed that made sense. Like… a bunch of cymbals and stuff? Or maybe just banging against different sorts of… tins and stuff? Hm. That’d probably sound pretty good. Maybe a bit loud. 

“‘Kichi, you want to sit in my lap for the performance? Or in the grass, or the chair, ooooooor…” Kaito scratched his chin, trying to think of more options, “Ummm…. I could go back and get the blanket… Ikou’s lap… that’d be pretty cute… Shuuichi’s lap?”

“Not a chance.” Shuuichi said. “Love you Kokichi.”

“Maybe not Shuuichi’s lap then.” Kaito conceded.

Kokichi laughed softly, giving Shuuichi a ‘no offense taken’ look. “Miya’s already taken up the prime real estate of Shuu-chan’s lap. One day I’ll be able to get a place in line again.” Grinning, Kokichi looked up at his husband. “Honestly, watching from Kai-chan’s lap sounds wonderful. My chair is comfy, but little can beat out you in that category.”

Ikuo huffed softly. Kokichi had always been sweet, but he’d really gotten adoring in his marriage and romantic relationship. What a sweet talker.

….Q////////////////Q

Stooooooooooooop, god dammit, Kaito needed, like, fifteen minutes to himself… or with Shuuichi… honestly, at this moment, preferably Kokichi… o-obviously not Ikou…. Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah- 

“Great!” Kaito grinned, deciding to just grin through his reddened face and hope no one noticed how affected he was. “Glad I could be of assistance!”

Kaito scooped his husband up, pushing the wheelchair a bit out of the way, before sitting down, putting his arms around Kokichi’s waist and stomach and burying his head into his husbands hair, just… give him a break…. People doing kick ass flips out of nowhere and cute husbands being all fucking cute and shit… unfair….

“Are we expected to dance at this?” Tim asked, looking suspiciously as people started collecting the ribbons things, uncertain if they were just… like, straight up other people from the crowd or not.

Kokichi sighed a bit but pat Kaito’s hands this time, taking a little pity on his husband. When he was feeling better, they’d have a nice, long, sweet night together. He promised, even if it was a promise to himself right now. 

Looking over to Tim, he shook his head a bit. “No, though if you feel like moving to the music, no one’s gonna stop you. There are dancers who’ve practiced this, and they’re the main event. All you’re expected to do is watch, Tim.”

It looked like it was going to start at any time too. The dancers were getting into their places, smiling and chatting with their neighbors, and the band seemed to be double-checking their instruments. It seemed to be a more traditional band this year, likely trying to give something a little more familiar to the returned citizens. 

Drums, flutes, a few older styles of guitars and what Kokichi assumed were basses… And his eyes widened as a pair of young women in yellow and green yukata respectively stepped up in front of the band. Singers too?

And as they raised their hands to get the crowd’s attention, with a brief phrase, the drums kicked off and...off the dancers went!!

Kokichi laughed in delight, recognizing the song immediately. 

Kaito watched in fascination, briefly confused at the language of the song, but realizing-- ah, right, traditional Dicean-- and watching as a group of enthusiastic dancers all stood around the pole, one group moving in and grabbing their ribbons, jumping back out while the second group ran in, grabbing their and twirling out, spinning out in fluid, effortless twirls, before the members of the first group grabbed their arms.

And they were off, the current partners spinning and entangling their ribbons for a moment, before spinning the opposite direction to free themselves, their clothes swirling and flowing in their movement, as they released each other and, some members stepping forward, went both clockwise and counter clockwise around each other, until the ribbons started to tangle together again, before immediately reversing their flow, untangling the ribbons again.

The Diceans around them, into the music and cheering on the dancers, were clapping their hands and stomping their feet into the grass at the beat of the music, some of them familiar with the song seeing along. Kaito noticed a few of the older kids getting wary, maybe afraid they were getting caught up in some strange ritual, but when nothing more alarming happening then continued dancing, a lot of the younger kids got up and started jumping, a few of them trying to mimic the dancers as the dancers now grouped up in groups of four, spinning and twirling and intermingling their ribbon which flashed and shone colorfully in the sun. 

Glen, Piper, and some of the parents had to reach out and stop some of the smallest kids from getting the wrong idea and joining in on the performance, but Piper especially just seemed enchanted with all of this, watching with some close to awe on her face. 

Kaito, in turn, tucking Kokichi against his chest a bit, clapped his hands in front of him, just a bit, tapping the side of his foot against the grass.

As an adult, Kokichi would’ve liked to watch the kids, both his and the Luminaries across the way, would’ve liked to see his his family was enjoying this...but the mood of the performance and the song was infectious. Kokichi was clapping along with the beat, letting his voice ring out. 

“Don-don-don utatte! Don-don-don odotte! Don-don-don-don egaite! Don-don-don-don naya mou!”

The dance was incredible, and whether you wanted to focus on a few dancers or them all as a whole, the movement was beautiful. 

Thinking for a moment, Kokichi smiled and sang again, though softer, just for his partners. 

“Boom boom boom, testing something new! Boom boom boom, having it fail miserably! Boom boom, making fools of ourselves! Boom boom boom boom, let’s make them all laugh at us!”

It was probably an odd song to his family, but...it was a song about creativity. About trying new things and still having fun when they failed. And looking upon all your attempts and realizing that the thing you made from them...was as precious as a diamond.

… was this a song about testing explosives??

Shuuichi watched the sweet, cute girls singing to their adoring crowd, according to Kokichi, enjoying and having fun playfully testing something that goes ‘boom, boom, boom’, and… wow. That’s pretty hardcore, Dicea. Shuchi supposed it was probably fireworks or something like that, but wow.

Kato, in turn, was far more enraptured listening to Kokichi excitedly sing along, his husband more energetic right now than Kaito had seen him in a while. Hoping to encourage him, Kaito did his best to sing along, trying to keep up with Kokichi’s beat, though it was tricky. This was a fast song. 

Then, Kimiko grabbed Timothy’s hand and pulled him up, Tim just raising an eyebrow but allowing himself to be led along at first, thinking maybe Kimiko just wanted him to escort her somewhere... and Cali just watching in outrage as Kimiko started dancing with Tim, Tim’s face pinking as he did his best to keep up with her, Kimiko twirling and bouncing with the skill of someone who’s done dances like these dozens and dozens of times in her young life. Kimiko giggled and, of course, in no way felt smug as Heidi across the way notably pouted when Kimiko glanced over. Meanwhile, Tim could feel Cali glaring daggers into his back… ah well. Sucks to be her. This was… pretty cool… K-Kimiko was a good dancer and stuff, h-he guessed…

(Was he? A good dancer?? He felt like he was just trying to keep up with her.)

(...Maybe he should take Kaito’s offer to teach him how to dance…)

Kokichi giggled as he could hear Kaito starting to sing too, trying to keep up with the quick tempo. He started swaying a little in Kaito’s lap, combining beats so he could go slowly, gently rubbing the tops of Kaito’s fingers as they sang. 

And while the dancers never slowed, slowly but surely the ribbons and garlands started to be weaved into bright, beautiful braids, wrapping around the pole. The song and dance were timed together so that the song would end when the pole was fully adorned, so Kokichi had an easy time...well, timing things. And so, even caught up in the energy, his eyes wandered, taking in the excited toddlers across the way and Tim and Kimiko swirling and dancing in delight--or slightly flustered acceptance, in Tim’s case--and...it was perfect. 

It was a...perfect time. Kokichi couldn’t ask for anything more. 

-

The performance wasn’t too terribly long, probably around fifteen minutes in total, with the dance and then admiring the newly adorned pole. But for Kokichi, it had been fifteen high-energy minutes, and by the time the family made it back down the hill to their little spot--everything undisturbed--Kokichi was...flagging, a little bit. 

Not in a bad way in the slightest! But he was leaning against Shuuichi’s chair, back down on the blanket with his legs sprawled out a bit to his side, head tipped in rest and his eyes were closed. Not sleeping, and not starting to show his tell-tale signs of falling into sleep, but...tired out, and in a restful place. 

Probably not the best way to spend lunch. 

Kaito had taken it upon himself to sort out the food, passing out and making up plates for Shuuichi, Ikou, and the kids. He was still humming, off and on, the song from the pole, it a little stuck in his head.

Everyone else was getting sandwiches and carrots and chips, just easy to store, easy to transport picnic foods… though the girls eyes had gone wide at the variety of samples on the platter, clearly curious about them. There was also soup for anyone who wanted them, but Kaito had specifically packed it for Kokichi, and, making up his own plate, he grabbed one of the containers of soup, looking over to his husband…

...hm.

As the kids sat out in the sun, lounging on the grass with their food, ignoring Chase’s big puppy dog eyes as she waited, hoping for scraps, Shuuichi sitting in his chair and talking idly with Ikouthe two discussing the festival a bit, Kaito walked behind Kokichi and, with a small, “Hey there…” he pulled Kokichi off the chair, leaning him against himself and kissing at his temple, showing him the container of soup as he murmured, “You hungry, babe?”

“Mmmmrg…” Kokichi rested his head against Kaito’s chest, indeed finding him a much more preferable pillow to the side of the chair. He cuddled slightly to Kaito’s side, though his body was still incredibly relaxed. “...mm’yeah. Food sounds good. That performance was really good, wasn’t it? My favorite in years, for sure.”

Sighing, Kokichi opened his eyes, sitting himself up...just slightly. Kaito was just too comfortable. “Hmm...can I have an egg tart too? They’re soft, and Ikuo was talking about how he got them from a patisserie this time so they should be cooked all the way.”

“Oh, easily the best one I’ve ever seen.” Kaito said playfully, rubbing Kokichi’s back a bit, glancing over to the plate of tarts that Ikou had brought. He couldn’t, and wouldn’t, actually tell Kokichi, ‘no, you can’t have one of the pastries your father brought’, but he did have a moment of thinking, ‘my husband is literally just trying to survive purely on sugar, oh my god, someone help us, I hope there’s some vegetables minced into this damn soup’. 

“Yeah, you got it, beautiful. Buuuut, that means I gotta get up for a minu-”

Shuuichi glanced over, overhearing this, and rolled his eyes a little, leaning over and grabbing a tart with a napkin before passing it back to Kaito. “You can just ask, Kaito.”

Kaito grinned somewhat sheepishly, taking them both as he said, “Thanks, handsome. Alright, soup and tart…” Lowering his voice, not wanting to embarrass Kokichi by asking loud enough for Ikou or the kids to hear, “Do you think you’ll need help? It’s okay if so, it’s been a long day.”

Kokichi glanced over at Kaito, smiling slightly. “I think I can handle it. But could you help me steady the soup container? Just in case.”

As Kokichi lifted the egg tart to take a bite--and...like, it was a dessert, technically, but...it was mostly just a baked egg! Healthy protein! Kaito should be thrilled!--his hand was steady. Granted, the tart wasn’t very heavy, but that was why Kokichi had asked Kaito to steady the soup container. 

Mmm...fluffy and eggy and sweet enough to be yummy. Sighing happily, Kokichi nuzzled Kaito’s chest as he chewed. “I really love the song they chose for the performance. Feels really like the perfect sort of thing for Hanami.”

Kaito, ignoring his own food for now-- he’d get to it, eventually-- opened up the soup container and getting it ready, giving Kokichi a fond look as his husband did his absolute very favorite thing: eat food Kaito disapproved of. 

“So, I’m guessing, considering how low key this holiday is, this was one of the festivals you got to participate in regularly… any fun stories? Not involving little girls lost in the night?” Kaito asked, smirking a little, “Though I still think that was a cute story.”

Kokichi nodded a bit, Kaito getting it spot on. “Yeah… Since what most people are up to is what I’d do during any holiday, it’s...easier to feel normal. But...I don’t think there’s a lot of interesting stories to tell…” 

He moved onto the soup, taking small sips. “Mostly...I just sat around in the park and ate food… Lurked around the sweets table. Watched performances…” ...alone, for the most part. And it had been lonely at times, but...peaceful at others. Just...enjoying nature and people-watching. 

Kokichi thought for a little bit, trying to think of some interesting story from Hanamis passed. “Mmm...one year there was a magic show at the amphitheater. They made someone from the audience levitate and I still have no idea how they did it. And...one year there was this girl my age who was trying to flirt with me a bit...and, y’anno, it was sweet, but I turned her down ‘cause I’m gay, but she ended up getting really confused, ‘cause she was gay and thought I was a girl. It was kind of a funny misunderstanding.”

Kaito snorted at that. “Aw, poor kid. That’s one thing I’ll never be able to relate to, I’m afraid. You pretty boys, all adrogynous and shit… I’ve always envied that, a little bit. I was an angular, tall, skinny garish kid. I did have a few partners who asked me to dress up once or twice, but trust me, I was nothing to write home about.” Kaito rolled his eyes, “You though? You’d look amazing whether you were trying to be masculine or feminine. You can pull off both. Like a pretty super power. All the rest of us can do is look on in wonder and envy.”

“Though, honestly? Good on that chick, so long as she didn’t give you a hard time about it. I imagine you were intimidating to flirt with, since you aren’t inclined towards flirting yourself. Hard to be the first person to flirt with someone not showing any initial interest. She took her shot… and missed. Missed terribly.” Kaito laughed, shaking his head.

Content to just watch Kokich eat for now, holding his soup container while Kokichi leaned against him… Kaito smiled. 

“I ever tell you about the time I snuck into Dicea and wound up right in the middle of a festival in Usott?” Kaito smirked.

“It happened...a lot when I was younger,” Kokichi sighed, rolling his eyes a bit, obviously more exasperated than upset. “Especially since no one really knew me? Not even trying to change up my presentation, it was really hit or miss if I’d be addressed as ‘prince’ or ‘princess’. It started to fizzle out when I started to work, but still...there was even a time then after my voice had dropped where it was still up in the air for some people.”

Kokichi never really thought he was ever trying to look masculine or feminine. He was just...Kokichi, and dressed like Kokichi, and so he was masculine. He never really…”got” more “objective” presentation. He supposed growing up with Denji had informed his worldview on that a bit.

Still steadily working through his soup, Kokichi raised an eyebrow before--after a swallow--his lips turned up in a smile. “I don’t think you have, no. Do you know what it was? If it was Zenith, then the world really just grazed giving me my husband early for my birthday.”

“Mmmm, I’m not sure. It was over the summer, I recall that. I did a lot of international traveling in the summer.” Kaito bragged, idly giving Kokichi a small squeeze of affection, just because he felt like it more than anything else, “Summer would come along, school would let out for the season, and I didn’t have to spend all summer with special tutors like Byakuya and Kaede, and I didn’t have, ya know… a job I was working on like Maki and Shuuichi. So I had… kind of a lot of time on my hands, during the summer. Had to keep myself busy.”

“So! I think when I was…” Kaito looked around for inspiration, saw some pre-teens walking up the hill together, and said, “Twelve? Thirteen? When I was thirteen, I decided, why not just pop off to Dicea, see the sights, cause some trouble? Real trouble maker, I was. Total badboy. Traveled on a black stallion wearing a leather jacket and shades indoors. So, ya know… very cool.” Kaito snorted, enjoying this little daydream now. “My horse wore shades too. But not indoors. Couldn’t bring my horse indoors.”

“So, I popped off to Dicea, and before I knew it, I was in the capital. Took literally no time at all, I don’t know why everyone else has such a hard time getting back and forth. You just need to be a half decent rider… so I was riding my stallion through this strange, foriegn festival, with their weird spicy foods, and, frankly, just… way too many hills. Like, an obnoxious amount of hills. Luminary has you all beat on that, at least. The earth is flat back at home. Like it should be… maybe a little sandy.” Kaito conceded, “But flat. So I’m getting my poor stallion up and down another damn incline… when I saw a doe-eyed, tiny… adorable kid, and I couldn’t figure out if they were a boy or a girl… I don’t remember what it was they were doing…”

Kokichi smirked a little, remembering their epic adventure in the underground jungle battling the pirate king and stealing a saint’s relic back… That had been a really fun trip. It kind of felt...final, right before Maki left, but...there would be more trips like that in their future. 

Setting his soup down for a moment to take another bite of his tart, Kokichi thought, figuring that Kaito would throw the story back to him, and he was absolutely proved right. In reality, that Zenith had been...pretty miserable. It was particularly hot, Kokichi had just gotten over a bout of illness and...and it had been his first birthday without his dad. 

Kokichi looked over to Ikuo, his gaze softening as he watched his father and his boyfriend chat lightly. “Mmm, I can’t really remember if I saw a really cool guy with cool sunglasses and a cool, sunglasses-wearing horse that year… If you were thirteen then...I would’ve been turning eleven. Big year for me, you know!”

“It was the year I won the dance-a-thon! A twenty-four hour dance competition where you have to keep moving, or you’re out! Plenty of people go hard at the beginning, just ‘cause the music’s good and it’s fun, and, like, of course I did too!” Kokichi laughed. “Even more impressive, I won without a partner! Or...at least I didn’t enter with one.”

Kokichi looked up, a glitter of mischief in his eyes. 

Kaito raised his eyebrows in exaggerated surprise, as he said, “No kidding? What a coincidence! The kid that caught my eye was dancing too!”

“I don’t know anything about any competition, but I saw this big group of Diceans, all dancing around and just being wild, to some pretty good music. A little different and strange, but pretty catchy, and very bouncy. And among the crowd of dancers, I saw this kid, maybe a few years younger than myself, just losing it on the dance floor. Spinning and twirling and jumping like he-- and, looking back at it, they were probably a ‘he’-- just had all the energy in the world, and he was killing it out there.”

“Now, you know me, babe. I’m a sucker for a pretty face, at the best of times, and love to dance, and thirteen year old me wasn’t any different. I saw this kid dancing like no one was watching… or, well, like everyone was watching, and was astounded as they should be, and parking my stallion, I decided to take on a disguise, in hopes I’d get a chance to dance with them.”

Kaito gave Kokichi a small, playful smirk, as he said, “Well, obviously I couldn’t go as myself. Skinny, too tall, gangly red-headed kid in a black leather jacket and black sunglasses? People would have recognized me as the enemy prince immediately, by coolness reputation alone. So, I went to look for some Dicean clothes, and…” Kaito paused. How could he have found clothes… “...now, I’m not proud of this anymore. But, well… I stumbled across two folks who were being… very festive, for the festivities. And, well, they weren’t using the pants and shirt anyway… I was a gentleman, though! I left behind their underwear. I’m sure they were fine.”

 “So! All dressed up, I headed back to the dance floor, hoping I had a shot still, that the boy hadn’t left yet… and nope! To my luck, he was still there, and still dancing full force. So, I jiggy’d my way through the dance floor, and feeling pretty damn bold, instead of asking politely, as any true gentleman should, I reached for his hand and--” 

Kato blanched. “Some older woman nabbed me first. She came out of nowhere! Pulled me into a twirl, got me stepping and jumping with her, and all the time, I’m just like, ‘damn, I gotta get to that kid’” Kaito sighed, shaking his head, “But when I looked over, someone else was also trying to dance with him. Suddenly, I had competition.”

Kokichi nodded slightly, looking like the situation was entirely familiar. “I was, yanno, doin’ my thing. Groovin’ it up, just, so embarrassingly, but it was fun. I was entirely ready to win the whole competition by myself, but…”

He looked away, feigning a bashful look and blush. “I almost lost right then and there, but somehow I kept moving. This…” he sighed, giggling slightly. “This guy? Sweet, beautiful eyes, it was clear he was nervous to talk to me, but he’d mustered up the courage and was determined to follow through. He said that he was totally fine with me taking the win myself, but he wanted to ask me to dance. Said I looked like I was having a lot of fun and...he didn’t want to miss the chance to ask me.”

Another giggle, and Kokichi put a hand to his cheek. “Course, it’s cuter looking back. I was just excited, thought that I had the chance to make a new friend. So I grabbed his hand and pulled him into a twirl!”

Kaito huffed, looking further outraged. Damn, pretty eyed pretty boys, stealing his ‘KichI! The nerve! 

Blowing out an offended air, Kaito said, “Same with this kid! He was being swept off his feet by this, like… guy! Didn’t even have sunglasses! Thought he was sooo cool. Well! That wasn’t gonna fly! I had to get this kids attention!”

“So, I’m working my way through the dance floor, bidding my time, scoping it out. I just need an opportunity to step in, sweep him off his feet, but his dance partner seems perfectly content to just dance with him for aaages. Hours are going by, and I’m starting to despair, thinking I had missed my shot… when I finally got an idea.”

“If I couldn’t dance with the guy I wanted to dance with, I could do a dance challenge with the guy who was actually dancing with him! Shame him off the dance floor with my sick moves! So, disentangling myself from my latest partner, I strutted up with all my thirteen year old confidence, tapped the guy on the shoulder, and demanded he duel me in a dance off!”

Kokichi laughed, setting his empty soup container to the side. “Oh nooooo, I remember that, like, too well. I had had, just, a great time dancing with this guy--he was shy, but considering we had hours to dance, I did manage to get some conversation out of him. But then out of nowhere, this real cool guy comes up and challenges him to a dance off?”

“And now, everyone around us is confused, and the guy I was dancing with backs up a bit, clearly unsure of what to do… So I step up, still swaying, can’t lose, but I look up at this giant and was like, ‘uh, we’re all already in a dance off?’ Of sorts, anyway.” Kokichi shook his head a little, taking the last bite of his tart. “It’s super weird to challenge someone directly when we’re all already competing.”

“But…” he sighed. “...when I turned the guy thanked me for the dance and said he was actually getting kinda tired. So...he was gonna resign.”

Kokichi frowned, leaning against his husband’s chest. “I’d planned to win myself, but...I was still kinda bummed out that he left…”

Kaito pouted a little at that-- awww, he wasn’t gonna get to challenge his competition? Ah well…-- before, with exaggerated surprise, he said, “Really? Kokichi, babe… I think it’s entirely possible we’re telling the exact same story.” Grinning playfully, Kaito pointed at himself and said, “Was the kid you saw challenging your partner looking like he was right smack dab in the middle of a really awkward growth spurt? Red hair? Knobby elbows and knees? Babe, I think it was,” gasp, “me!”

“Hmmmmmmmmmm…” Kokichi let out an extended hum, tilting his head this way and that. “Iiiiiiii guess the guy had all those traits… But he was really cool. A giant, but even getting used to that body, still gentle in his movements. Had a million dollar smile...a light in his eyes that looked like glittering stars.”

“Hm. Well, in that case, I don’t think there’s anyone it could’ve been other than you,” Kokichi grinned, leaning up for a moment to kiss Kaito’s cheek.

Kaito chuckled, leaning in to the kiss, as he said, “I should have realized it was you immediately, honestly. Those haunting purple eyes, that sweet, waifish frame, that sweet, happy smile that even just looking at it made the world just seem...better. A better place to live in… course that was you. The hairs a dead give-away too. That kid also looked like he had hacked at it with scissors.”

“I still had no idea we were in a competition, but I danced with you for as long as you’d let me that day, beautiful, and that ended up being… honestly, just, an insane amount of time. We danced into the afternoon, well into the evening… I have no idea what time it was when we finally stopped, or when you started, but… oh! Oh!” Kaito put his hand on his forehead, groaning, “You sneak… that’s why you sent me off to go get you a drink, and then everyone started cheering when I walked off the dance floor. I thought that was weird… and, awww, babe… you were gone, vanished, by the time I returned. Leaving behind nothing but questions and longing. I never even got your name… or got to give you your juice! What gives, man!?”

Kokichi covered his mouth as he snickered. “I wanted to win!! It was a dance-a-thon! You were the last person left and we didn’t sign up together! So I needed some way to win, but you seemed happy to dance as long as I was. Not my fault that you didn’t even know it was a competition, and you were happy to get me a drink.”

“I did think about you, though…” Kokichi sighed in reminiscing. “Wondering who that charming stranger was. I kept hoping to see you come to the castle, and I could ask you to dance again...turns out I’d have to wait a few more years for that.” 

Sighing, Kokichi closed his eyes. “...I want one of the cherry tarts...and then I think I wanna take a nap. Partly in the sun, with my legs on the grass…”

Kaito kissed his temple, pleased with how story time had gone, and happy to let Kokichi sleep as much as he wanted, as he murmured, “Your wish is my command, your grace.”

-

“Kaito, he’s sleeping, leave him alone, stop putting lotion on him.”

“He’s SO PALE, Shuuichi! So pale!!”

-

It was a nice, chill day at the festival, but before heading home--past the banquet tables that even with a bunch of samples and fancy desserts waiting for him, Kokichi was absolutely going to eye--the group decided to head to the amphitheater to see a performance or two. Music, dancing, maybe a magic show, like Kokichi had described, or a short play...anything was possible. Almost like the community theater during Harvest, though these performances weren’t spontaneous.

Recharged from his nap, Kokichi was really looking forward to another bit of that special moment before going home and leaving the energy of the festival for another year. Or, few months until Zenith, though it was a little different. 

As they found a good spot in the crowd--really, just people sitting much like they did elsewhere in the park, but just angled towards the theater--Kokichi smiled, recognizing the band playing as the group that had played at his wedding, the jumping music inspiring people in the park to dance for a bit.

Tsumugi had, finally, swung by to check in on Kimiko, sipping on some fruity drink that, judging by the slightly loopy smile on her face, was likely a little more than fruit, and after coo’ing over her daughter and asking her if she was having a good time, she talked to Kaito about the possibility of Kimiko spending the night at the castle with Tim tonight. Cali, overhearing this, immediately asked to join, and after being sent off to find her parents-- which, Kaito hoped, she actually did and didn’t just say she did-- came back to say she was good to stay the night! 

So, they had the kids for the night, Cali and Kimiko having managed to collect some sticks and flowers and Kimiko now, valiantly, attempting to teach Cali and Tim how to make a flower crown, all three of the kids barely paying attention to the stage, more enraptured by each other and their task. Chase, already wearing a flower crown, the one Kimiko had made as an example, was plopped next to Shuuichi, placing her head onto his lap and promptly falling asleep. Shuuichi bore this willingly enough, occasionally absentmindedly petting her side, as Shuuichi settled into the blanket, Kaito having brought the blanket with them to watch the performance.

Parking the chair, Kaito asked Kokichi, “Back on the blanket, babe? Need a hand?”

Kokichi grinned slightly, giving his husband a sly look. “If by blanket I can claim a seat on you again. I can see enough of the stage on the ground, I think, but giving me the extra height of your thighs will give me the perfect viewing experience.”

It seemed that the band was just finishing their set, because with a little solo ditty to wrap the melody up, the crowd applauded and the band waved before heading off stage. Following in their wake was who Kokichi assumed to be the current MC. “And that was The Deco-Spectacles everybody! What a fantastic set--you can bet we were all jiving backstage as well! For our next performance, we’ll all be treated to an improv set! Now, our actors and volunteers need you, our imaginative audience, to lend a hand, so get those creative juices flowing! And please remember that this is a show for all ages!”

There was a bit of playful heckling from the crowd at that, but everyone clapped as a group of people came on stage and… Kokichi’s eyebrows raised. “...how the heck did they get pulled into this?”

In the middle of the group, Takashi was grinning and waving, at home in front of a cheering crowd, while right behind him Ryouhei walked on without even the slightest aplomb, not looking like he’d rather be dead, but...well, Kokichi hadn’t really seen the head scribe excited for...much at all through the years.

Kaito scoffed, though he scooped Kokich up easily enough as he said, “Personal heater, personal seat… honestly, babe, sometimes I think you just like me for my body.”

Shuuichi sighed, rolling his eyes, “Kaito…”

Kaito snickered at that, though he did glance over at the kids, who weren’t paying them any mind, still wrapped up in their flower crowns. “You good with Chase there, handsome?”

“She’s alright. I mean… she’s drooling on me.” Shuuichi noted dryly, “But that’s okay, I guess. At least it’s a warm day to be drooled on.”

Kaito watched the band leave, not recognizing them at all, but still appreciating the music, tapping out the rhythm a bit against Kokichi’s thighs, before clapping appropriately as the set ended and the band, with a wave, headed off. Watching the announcer guy come on-- eh, he was kinda cute. Kaito thought the hooked nose was endearing.-- he again politely clapped as the new performers came in… before snorting, as beside him, Shuuichi murmured, “Takashi??”

“Ey, look at that. Window guy and telephone secretary guy are doing a bit. That’s fun… well, maybe not for telephone secretary guy.” Kaito noted, looking at the secretary, who seemed pointely not having fun. 

“Ryouhei might still have fun,” Kokichi hummed, though he was looking on in confusion as one of the other improv people started talking to the crowd, explaining how the performance was going to go, and how the crowd could participate. “He’s just...not that emotive. Which is why I have...no idea why he’s doing an improv bit. Maybe they needed a fifth and Takashi pulled him in. Though I didn’t know he was into improv either…”

“Alright!” the leader of the crew, it seemed like, called out. “Who has an idea for an everyday situation?”

There was...something of a garbled roar from the crowd, but among it, the person evidently heard, “Going through your morning routine!”

Ryouhei and Takashi stepped up, both quickly having undone their hair ties when they heard the prompt. Takashi was emoting with his whole body, giving an exaggerated stretch and a loud, performance yawn, while Ryouhei...just kind of stood there, getting a little droopier, like he was about to fall asleep. 

“Let’s let our sleepyheads get ready for a moment, but think up a good twist we can give them!”

Kaito smirked, watching the group with the keen eye of someone who’s done this himself all of twice, and felt like a total doof both times. It was both very fun and very alarming, doing an improv scene in front of relative strangers, and Kaito could imagine the excited jitters that was racing through all of them right now… well, except for maybe Ryouhei. Dude sorta looked like he’d rather actually be asleep.

“Hey, ‘Kichi, if I were to shout things like… I don’t know,  they’re in a middle of a war or a spar or anything violent like that? … ya know, even asking makes me vaguely uncomfortable.” Kaito realized, glancing around warily, “Nevermind, I’m not gonna chance it.”

“Maybe one of their hairs just start… falling out?” Shuuichi mused, petting Chase, “Rapid balding?”

“Rapid growing. Their hair just keeps growing and growing and growing.” Kato chuckled. 

Kokichi looked up, giving Kaito a soft look as he pet Kaito’s hands. It would certainly be a twist, but...well. The other stuff was a bit funnier. He snorted at his partners’ ideas, looking back to the stage. “Get a real Rapunzel situation on their hands. Ryouhei’s hair is already pretty long,” he nodded, watching the head scribe pull back his mid-back-length hair into his usual sloppy style, though Takashi was helping here and there, giving tips to...his roommate? In this situation? “Maybe he’d just start using it as a sleeping bag.”

The two started to mime brushing their teeth, Takashi doing an impressive dry gargle, when the person outside the scene pointed to a part of the crowd. “This side, give us a twist!”

There was a lot of callouts, people shouting some mild things, like ‘You’re late for work!’ or something more flamboyant, like ‘The frogs start hopping out of the toilet!’, one person, clearly joking, shouting ‘Annnnnnd kiss’.

Though, with a cool silver coin fresh in their pocket, someone almost lazily, but clearly called out, “Go on a date!” 

“I think people miiiight think they’re cute.” Kaito snickered. Though, out of curiosity, Kaito asked Kokichi, “Are either of them dating anyone right now? I can’t tell if Ryouhei gives me ‘has been in a relationship for years’ vibe or a ‘I’ve never dated anyone in my life’ vibe.” Glancing at Takashi, Kaito continued, “And Takashi gives me a ‘three people asked me out in one month five years ago and I’m still riding that high’ vibe.”

Kokichi huffed in amusement and tipped his head back. “Honestly...I have no idea if Ryouhei has a partner, but I kind of doubt it? I’ve never seen him with a partner at the castle, and he’s never talked about anyone...though he can be kind of sparing with details of his personal life. Considering how long he’s worked at the castle, I’d assume I would’ve seen a partner at a dinner or an event by now…”

“And ‘Kashi-chan…” Kokichi snorted a bit. “Honestly, I thought he was into Miu-chan for a while, with how much he gushes over her work. But that’s not the case. He said there was someone else on his mind…”

“Ah, so you’re not just getting up, you’re going on a date!” Apparently the person outside the scene chose. 

And immediately, Takashi’s movements became gentler, a little more intimate as he brushed some hair behind Ryouhei’s ear. “Think we should stop by somewhere to pick you up some new elastics? Though, I’ve never seen you with one that can manage to keep your hair back...I have to admit, it’s grown on me… You’re endearing, dear.” 

It was subtle, something only those nearest to Takashi could see, but his hand was trembling slightly, the nerves in his stomach picking up. 

Ryouhei tilted his head slightly, not...really changed in his countenance in any way. “Shouldn’t I just borrow yours, then? They always seem to do the job--you never settle for anything less.”

Kaito… raised an eyebrow at that.

Huh.

“Takashi’s a pretty good actor.” Shuuichi complimented, though he laughed lightly, whispering to the others, “I think Ryouhei, though, is just honestly answering. Do you think he knows he’s meant to be playing a character?”

“Oh, I suspect Ryouhei’s not the only one forgetting this is make-believe.” Kaito mused, watching the open softness leak into Takashi’s face… before sighing. “Honestly, I get so antsy when I see stuff like this. I always just want to, like… say something. People make things so hard on themselves…”

“What, by doing public improv performances?” Shuuichi asked, adjusting his cap, “I agree. Why would anyone do this?”

“Hey! It can be a good time.” Kaito pouted.

Kokichi grinned a little, trying to give Ryouhei the benefit of the doubt. “He’s trying, at least. Though...I am still really surprised that Ryouhei agreed to do something like this at all. He’s, like...an introvert that really likes to do stuff. He used to work for the paper, doing reviews. On everything. Restaurants to club debuts...but I never really got the sense that he’s the kind of person to socialize while he’s doin’ all that.”

...he never seemed upset about it either. Kokichi had never gotten the sense of loneliness from the older man. But...it wasn’t like he knew what was going through his head. 

Kokichi frowned slightly, taking in what Kaito said. 

Meanwhile, on stage, Takashi and Ryouhei had moved on outside, going on their date toooooo...ha! Hanami! All the while speaking cutesy couple-stuff to each other...or...that might’ve been the intention. Takashi’s comments were...oddly deep and personal for an improv show, though the crowd was enraptured with his acting, while Ryouhei was just...making brief conversation, but was focused on Takashi, which...was intimate for the man as far as Kokichi knew.

As they ‘walked’ through the festival, the other members of the improv group got to step up and take the spotlight, taking suggestions from the crowd to be everything from someone operating a shady oden stand and arguing with a customer who was determinedly trying to get a free meal, to a face-painter who had no idea what a cat looked like and was trying to sneakily ask questions of their customer, a small child, to try and get an idea. 

It was at the cat one that the kids started to get into the performance, Kimiko and Cali giggling over the exaggerated innocence and ignorance of the questions, while the ‘child’ gave clues that were deliberately misleading. Timothy was still trying to work on his flower crown, somewhat getting the hang of it now, and Cali had eventually just given her to Kimiko to fix for her, before placing it on her own head.

As they watched, Kaito murmured to Kokichi, “You think you’d want to try something like this, ‘Kichi? I bet we could find a small improv group to play with for a night or something…”

“Maybe…” Kokichi hummed, laughing quietly as the artist desperately tried to figure out where the ‘face spines’ were. “It does look like fun, but...I dunno. I feel like I’d be too nervous to do it in front of an audience. I’ve never really acted in anything. But it is a lot of fun making stories with you guys…”

Many acts had gone on, and the person ‘outside’ the scene--who had gone inside of one, a dancer who was by happenstance perfectly dodging every attack an assassin tried to pull off--asked the audience for another scene and…

“At the end of the date, ask them for marriage!”

Takashi took a quick, steeling breath, getting down on one knee. “My dear… We have known each other for so long, have seen great glories and tragic defeats...and throughout it all, you’ve kept your head held high. An even voice that can reach the masses, even if they never realize it. An adversary, whether personal or a fight we’re all participating in...you never hesitate. You always take the next step forward.”

“...Ryouhei,” Takashi said a little quieter, before bringing his volume back up for the performance. “I’m honored to have been with you on your grand journey, but I wish to remain by your side. Would you be mine?”

Ryouhei blinked. Well, the rule was yes, and, right? 

“‘Course,” he said, without emotion and blunt as a brick. 

Kaito at first thought he was misunderstanding… then his eyes steadily widened into saucers… before, his whole body cringing, he covered both his ears and closed one of his eyes, squinting through the other one, as he groaned, very quiet, entirely to his own horror, “Oh nooooo, don’t do thiiiiis…”

Kokichi raised an eyebrow, glancing up at Kaito in confusion as, up on stage, Ryouhei just as bluntly said, “The kids like you much better than my fourth husband. Fifth time’s the charm as they say.”

...the other people in the group, despite keeping their expressions up, all glanced to Takashi who… His shoulders dropped, just slightly. And the expression on his face, to the discerning viewer, went from hopeful to just...softly, fondly accepting. “You have made it through the worst of your luck, getting through a number like that,” A few older members of the audience laughed, familiar with the old superstition, “And nothing would make me happier than being a father to Oasis and Forrest and Hana and Fleur and Ash and…”

Takashi continued on and on with a list of names, making the audience laugh again at the thought of the newly engaged couple having an absurd amount of children.

Kaito, still able to hear a bit even with his ears covered, let out a mildly relieved breath when he realized it was done. Letting his hands fall and giving a truly sympathetic sigh as he watched the flamboyant man salvage his, just… terrible idea. Like, what was the best case scenario here? Ryouhei seemed to be barely paying attention, at his best, and confessing so deeply and dramatically in the middle of an improv group… that’d confuse someone who was otherwise, feelings wise, totally on the same page as you.

It was like proposing to someone on All Fools Day. Like, you could… but you’re basically begging for a misunderstanding. And if you were hoping to hide under a misunderstanding if it didn’t go well, the way you wanted it too? Confession without the consequence of actually expressing yourself?

...well, that wasn’t fair to the person you were confessing too. Honestly, by that point, the confesee was dodging a bullet, as far as Kaito was concerned.

Still, Kaito couldn’t help but feel a bit bad for Takashi. Poor moron… hopefully he’d do some reflecting after this. Or, fuck, move on. Lots of fish in the sea, ya don’t have to pursue the one that wouldn’t give you a passing glance.

Shuuichi, in turn… clapped a bit, laughing a little. “That was cute.” he complimented. 

“I feel like I just aged ten years.” Kaito snarked. “Check my hair? Any grays? Phew…”

Kokichi clapped along as well as the scene ended, though he still gave Kaito a questioning look. “Hun, Ryouhei’s acting isn’t that painful. ...besides, seeing a gray hair isn’t really a sign of stress for you--that’s just a Thursday.”

...was Takashi actually...? No way that was a real confession. Or...some really oblivious thing where they had already been together and this was some worse form of what Hina had done for Sakura. So...was it something else?

Kokichi’s eyes followed Takashi as he walked with the others off stage, the MC back to announce the next act. He lost the man for a moment, but saw him walk off with Tomomi--dressed in next to nothing, but somehow still a different style than what Amber was wearing--who had a hand on his back. 

...hmmm…

Kaito sputtered, eyes wide, genuinely spazzing out as he said, “What!? What!? Do I have grays!? Shuuichi, why haven't you told me I’m graying!?”

“...Haven't I?” Shuuichi asked lightly, sounding mildly befuddled. 

“Gah!”

Kaito made plans to take a mirror tonight and carefully look through his hair, confirm that this guys were fucking with him, when purely on instinct his head followed Kokichi’s glance, seeing Takashi and… “Hot damn.” Kaito muttered, raising an eyebrow. “...Shuuichi, what do I have to do to get you into something like that?”

“The fact that you even ask means ‘over my dead body’.” Shuuichi said, not even glancing over to see whatever outfit Kaito was talking about.

“Heartbreaking… Kokichi?”

Kokichi gave his husband a dry look. He was glad he made the grey hair joke now. Keeping his voice low in front of the kids, he sighed, “Kai-chan, you see me naked all the time. And there’s no way I’d wear something like that in public. I’ve never understood why ‘Kashi-chan wears the end of his tie tucked into his shirt, and I’m not about to let him boast about starting a trend like that.”

“Equally devastating.” Kaito sighed, “And sometimes, Kokichi, it’s all about the packaging. Honestly, considering how elaborately pretty you all make your food, you’d think you’d appreciate presentation more.”

“...why does he tuck his tie into his shirt? I noticed he did that once and thought it was an accident.” Shuuichi murmured. “Just kind of goofy looking, isn’t it?”

“Maybe he’s going for that, like… straight line look? Like…” Kaito narrowed his eyes, “Like a… closed door… thing.”

Kokichi just gave his husband another befuddled look, not...knowing at all what Kaito was alluding to, but from with side, Ikuo just let out a short note of a hum. “Scribe, ain’t ‘e? Prolly keepin’ his tie from dippin’ in ink or messin’ up glue on posters an’ the like. Dunno why he would’n jus’ not wear a tie at that point, if ‘e’s gon’ be tuckin’ it all the time.”

“Oh… That does make sense.” Kokichi tapped his lips for a moment before shrugging. “Well, he wears button shirts and fancy jackets all the time. He probably just doesn’t think the whole ‘look’ looks right without a tie, even if it gets in the way. That sounds like him.”

Kaito closed his eyes, resting his head on Kokichi’s shoulder as he hugged him tighter, humming, “Mmmmmm, I dunno… I think my straight line door theory holds some real weight. Maybe it’s symbolic?”

“Symbolic for what?” Shuuichi asked indulgently.

“For… doors.” Kaito murmured, perfectly comfortable in his hold around Kokichi. “And, as everyone knows, doors are a symbol for… abstinence.”

“Now you’re just saying random words.” Shuuichi muttered, watching as a new performance went up, some sort of standup comic. Shuuichi could tell by the vibes of the audience that this guy was well known and well liked, people clearly pleased to see he was up, already chuckling even as he just started his bit.

“You can’t prove anything.” Kaito murmured again.

“Straight line door theory.” Kokichi sighed, slumping back against Kaito comfortably. He’d probably be keeping an eye on Takashi...when he could, but...there was nothing to do now. “You really sound more like you’re talking about...I don’t know. Theoretical particle physics.”

“...plus, for people who don’t want intimacy? I’d think a wall is a way better metaphor. One that you can’t climb over at all.”

“...a locked door.” Kaito muttered, grumbling a little, “Basically a wall with, ya know… complexity. Fuck walls.”

“FUCK WALLS!” Cali shouted, throwing her hands into the air.

“What? No, no, Cali, shhh!” Kaito sputtered, eyes shooting open and sitting up, waving her down, “Don’t say that!”

Cali just laughed at Kaito’s obvious regret, her flower crown tilting over her face a little, as Tim, a little proud, passed his finished flower clown to Kimiko for inspection. Kimiko, in turn, gushed over it, before making a show of placing it on Timothy’s head, who bore this patiently, though he puffed one of his cheeks out a little, mildly embarrassed.

Kokichi huffed--buuuuut a locked door implied that there was a key, which did work for people who were planning on a relationship at some point, but not for people who didn’t want it at all. There needed to be more nuance to this metaphor--but he snorted as Cali picked up on Kaito’s language. 

While he was unabashedly snickering, Kokichi waved Cali over, giving her a grin. “Cali, have your parents talked with you about any rules around swearing?”

Cali easily came over when she was beckoned, but at the questio, both blushed and smirked, clearly a little guilty and embarrassed, but that feeling conflicting with an almost smug pride as she said, “I mean… yeaaaaaah. They don’t like it. Dad says if it doesn’t add context or character, then it’s not worth saying…”

“...and I don’t know, mom’s probably said something about it.” Cali rolled her eyes, shrugging, “But Sarah said to ‘know your audience’.”

Kokichi nodded. “Those are both good points, and I’m sure what your mom had to say is something worth considering too,” and...while it was technically scolding, Kokichi gave Cali a...more sympathetic look. Knowing all too well what it felt like to resent a parent, even if his and Cali’s situations were very different. “If it was just the group of us, during training, or something like that? Well, Kai-chan, Shuu-chan, Ikuo and I are adults, so we do have to say something--it’s the rules,” he nodded stoically.

“But we’re an audience that’s not going to be hurt. Out in public with people always coming and going?” Kokichi gestured around them, now getting to the actual scolding part. “You never know who’s going to hear, so you never know who your audience is, if there’s going to be someone there who’s going to be hurt or worried. In that case, it’s better to rely more on your dad’s advice, okay?”

“Even if you’re just saying what someone else said,” Kokichi hummed, turning to look a little at Kaito, not reproachful, but more amused since his husband still looked a bit worried.

At this, Cali began to tug at the end of her shirt a little, now looking a little more embarrassed as she nibbled on the inside of her lip… before nodding her head. “Okay… I’m not in trouble, am I?”

Kaito gave Cali a raised eyebrow, before sighing dramatically, “I dunno… what do you think, Kokichi? Throw her in the dungeon for a few days?”

Kimiko’s eyes widened with delight, listening in, “You have a dungeon!?”

Tim, in turn, narrowed his eyes, “...no they don’t. I’d have found a dungeon by now.”

Cali, too, seemed excited as she said, “If I promise to keep in mind my audience, can I go see the dungeon!?”

Kokichi had been about to say no. He wasn’t one of her parents, and considering they hadn’t gotten much besides a few surprised turned heads, it wasn’t a big deal. It wasn’t quite a mistake, but he hoped that she would be a little more mindful with the reminder to consider her audience, but…

Kokichi snorted slightly, amused with the kids’ excitement. Putting on an exaggerated thinking face, Kokichi tilted his head to the side. “Well...it’s not exactly what you’d think of when you hear about a dungeon. Instead of holding prisoners, it’s where we have very special items. In the whole castle, only three people have a key to it, so that might be why you haven’t found it, Tim.”

“Though,” he smirked, still not breaking his promise, “Keys aren’t exactly things you always need, huh?”

“If I was gonna take someone down there, I’d have to know they’re very responsible people--a lot of the special items are old and fragile, things that need to be handled delicately, if at all.” Giving the kids an Adult Look Kokichi asked, “Can you guys prove that you’re responsible?”

“Yes~”

“Yes!!”

“That’s a terrible idea.” Tim said simply, giving Kokichi an ‘are you kidding?’ look, no faith in his friends… before shrugging, “But, yeah.”

Shuuichi… felt a sick feeling of apprehension run through his stomach. He kept it off his face though, just focusing on the comedian. His hangups weren’t anyone else's responsibility… what? No one could ever talk about or visit the archive ever again? Stupid…

Kaito, in turn, gave Kokichi a mildly confused look. “Wait, we actually have a, like… treasure room or whatever?”

Kokichi gave his nephew a light look, shrugging a little. “I’m not saying we’re going tomorrow. Unfortunately, the staircase down isn’t wheelchair accessible, so we’ll have to wait until I can walk again.” And while Kaito could carry him, Kokichi wanted to be on his feet for keeping an eye on the kids. 

“I’m not saying that you can’t make any mistakes,” he gave them a reassuring look, “But I’m asking to see you guys being mindful enough that I can trust you to be around fragile, precious objects.” And he’d ask Malcolm what things were safe to touch. Maybe the librarian would supervise too…

Giving Kaito a sheepish look, Kokichi half-shrugged. “Not...quite? All of the things in there belong to the castle, since they’re considered a cultural treasure and part of the preservation of history that the castle’s a part of. Like...they’re not items of wealth, really, though there are some people out there who would pay a lot for them.”

Kaito thought it sounded a little like a treasure room… but he was guessing the idea of selling them if they ever needed the money wasn’t part of the reason they were preserving the items, so maybe it wasn’t really the same thing at all.

“Awwww, I really wanna see it now…” Kimiko pouted, bouncing slightly on her ankles, before smiling brightly, “Okay! We’ll be super responsible!”

“I’m already responsible.” Tim huffed.

“Didn’t you stab your dad… like, a few times?” Cali asked, mostly annoyed because Tim usually was more responsible than her and it was very annoying. 

“I mean… that was pretty responsible, at the time...”

“Kid… it really, really wasn’t.” Kaito growled, twitching slightly.

Timothy, again, puffed out his cheeks. Well, he had been trying to be responsible, anyway.

Kokichi smiled kindly at the kids. “I know you guys all have it in you. It’ll be something fun to look forward to! And it gives me an incentive to work towards in my therapy, since I don’t wanna leave you hanging. Though, being able to walk again is already a big prize in my eyes…”

“Speaking of looking forward to things, though…” Kokichi hummed, tilting his head a little. “The school year is almost over. Do you guys have any plans for summer break? Or things that you hope to do?”

“...” Tim blinked, “We get summers off?”

“Oh my god, you didn’t know!? We get two months off!!” Cali shouted, looking both thrilled to share the news and horrified her friend hadn’t known.

Kaito frowned. He was gonna ask how Tim hadn’t known that, it was one of the things the two cultures shared, apparently… but he couldn’t bring himself to ask in the middle of a group. He’d talk to Tim about it later, see if there was other information Tim’s upbringing in the military had left him ignorant too.

“I always sign up for a camp. Not always the same camp, but some camp.” Kimiko mused, looking a touch sad as she realized, “So we might not see each other a lot during summer…”

“Dad likes to take us traveling somewhere for at least a week every summer… well, he did. Who knows what’s gonna happen this summer. I’ll just sneak off to whichever camp you’re in, Kimiko.” Cali decided, shrugging, before grinning at Tim, “You coming?”

“Planning to run away right in front of us doesn’t count as being responsible.” Kaito commented dryly. 

“We’d come back!” Cali insisted, a little offended. They always had before!

Kokichi just blinked back at Tim for a moment before...well, he wasn’t going to call anymore attention to it. He felt bad enough for potentially embarrassing Tim in...a way he hadn’t intended. This was a not a fun way to fluster his nephew, poking fun at his crush. This was just...mean, if Kokichi had done it on purpose. 

Sighing, Kokichi shook his head a little. “Let us know what camp you’re going to, Kimiko. Then, if you want to, Kai-chan can sign Tim up to, and Cali, you can ask your parents about it. You might be able to look out for each other and take care of yourselves, but we’d worry if we didn’t know where you were. Let’s try to keep everyone on the same page.”

It was terribly boring, but...that was being responsible sometimes. 

“Out of curiosity, though… Kimiko, what kind of camps have you gone to?”

“All sorts! I go to a different one every year! Mommy says it’s to keep me ‘well rounded’.” Kimiko smiled brightly, though she bounced excitedly and said, “Though, if Timothy and Cali want to come, maybe we could all pick one together! There’s lots! I’ve been to Horse Camp, and Scout Camp, and Garden Camp! Annnnnd…” Kimiko paused, trying to remember further back then three years, “...I think it was a swimming camp? I remember swimming a lot… anyway! Lots of camps!”

“I think it’d be fun to go to a camp! I’m in!” Cali cheered, looking to Tim excitedly, “Tim? You wanna?”

Timothy was fussing a little with his flower crown, his eyebrows furrowed lightly… he glanced over at Shuuichi, before looking at the ground again. Considering his thought process…. Before nodding slightly to himself, decided.

“No.” he said, looking up his friends, not being mean. Just… matter of factly saying, “Not this summer. Maybe next summer. I’ll see you guys when you get back.”

“Awwww, why!?” Cali whined, while Kimiko pouted. “It’ll be fun! For real, Tim! We’ll pick the camp you want to go to!”

Timothy rolled his eyes, “I said no, Cali. Next summer, okay?”

Sounded like a lot of fun experiences… Vaguely, Kokichi knew that there were a bunch of things for kids to do in the summer, but...he just never knew about any of them. It pleased him to think that there were enough that Tsumugi could choose to take her daughter to a different one every year. 

While his eyebrows raised, however, Kokichi was both...surprised, and not by Tim’s answer. Surprised, because Tim, Kimiko, and Cali were thick as thieves...but also not, because other than one night sleepovers, Tim had never spent any extended time away from (at least one of) his parents. He always had that lifeline at the end of the day. Knew what to expect from Kaito and Maki, mostly. While Kokichi hadn’t heard about Tim having issues with his teacher, he still didn’t think Tim would be thrilled to take orders and abide by rules made by a bunch of adults he didn’t know in the slightest. 

“Next summer, then,” Kokichi softly hummed in agreement, nodding at Tim. “You guys will have a ton to talk about after camp, then.”

Kokichi’s analysis was fair… but Kaito watched all this and internally sighed, aware of a little bit more information than his husband was.

...dammit, Maki.

He wanted to tell Tim that it was fine for him to go. His little sister had a bunch of adults to take care of her, she didn’t need him hovering around to help take care of her. That Kaito would prefer Tim go and enjoy his summer… but, again, that wasn’t a conversation he wanted to have with Tim in front of people. He just… needed to get his son out of this mindset that he was, for some reason, responsible for their safety, and not the other way around. Maki had super gotten into his head, and Kaito had been spending a considerable number of months now slowly trying to convince Tim that he was, in fact, nine years old, and that it was Kaito’s job to take care of him. And, also, now he had to remember it was Kaito’s job to take care of Miya too. 

Sigh… oh well. 

At least he’d get to spend Tim’s birthday with him. Kaito would think of something special to do for it.

Cali still was notably disappointed at the decision, but thankfully, the comedian left the stage to applause, and a new musical band came up, filling the air with fun, bouncy music, making it more difficult for Cali to keep up her grumbling. Chase woke up to the sound of the music, and with boundless energy, got up and, making certain her owner noticed she was going to do it before she did, bolted off, tail wagging as the kids gave chase to the dog, their game begun again.

Kaito watched the kids run off after the dog, and kissed Kokichi gently against his temple. “...that was great, babe. You’re really getting the hang of that.”

The new music brought a smile to Kokichi’s face as well, and he watched the kids--and puppy--run off, mindful...enough of other people sitting around. There were plenty of other kids running around too, so it wasn’t like people would be surprised. 

“...yeah?” Kokichi relaxed back against Kaito’s chest, holding his husband’s hand in a reverse hold. “Not being too preachy or obtuse? Or too much of a doormat?” There was a balancing act there. One that...Kokichi was a little too aware he leaned heavily to one side on. You had to give kids freedom and autonomy, but...to the extent they could handle. You needed to let them make mistakes and learn, sometimes even big mistakes, but...parents were meant to protect their kids too. Not to mention when you had to teach something with words and just...how to find the right kind of logic to appeal to. What was patronizing, and what was too advanced. 

Kokichi sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I’d hope Cali’s parents wouldn’t be upset, but...I mean, I wasn’t planning on telling them, and I doubt she’s gonna tell them something that might get her in trouble.”

“Tsk. I won’t tell them if she doesn’t.” Kaito mumbled, squeezing Kokichi’s fingers gently, as he admitted, “They’re not the biggest fans of me, and, frankly, I don’t like talking to them either. I adore Cali though… girl reminds me of me a lot. Both at her age and now. I think she knows I’m partial to her too. She wasn’t about to stop cursing just cause I was gonna scold her, she knows I’d back down eventually. It’s nice to have someone else back me up.” 

Kaito grinned, kissing the back of Kokichi’s head now, as he said, “And no to all those things you said. I think that was great. Kids aren’t super self aware. Sometimes they just need someone they trust telling them they’re acting like an asshole. No one wants to be the asshole.”

“Or, if they want to, then we’ve already got other problems.” Shuuichi chimed in, surprised he already missed Chase a little. She was a good dog.

“Her dad’s not so bad…” Kokichi sighed. When he spoke up at all, that was… He could understand being a more passive kind of person, but...well, it did make things difficult when his wife and daughter were outspoken and...well, opposed. Not to mention Mrs. Fornia’s blatant distaste for Luminaries. 

But Cali really was a good kid. For Tim’s sake, Kokichi was glad they had met, but he was personally glad he was getting to be a part of the girl’s life. He was looking forward to seeing the amazing things she’d do as she grew up. 

Kokichi smiled a bit as Kaito reassured him of his Parenting Time. Look at him… A year ago, he wouldn’t have even considered seeing himself as a parent. Now...he was trying his best every day to be what the kids in his life needed and would need. Hopefully, it would be enough for those needs. 

Snorting, though there was absolutely truth to Shuuichi’s words, Kokichi gave his boyfriend a nod. “They can choose to be a little asshole-ish, but...I’m kinda hoping that’s just gonna be a teenager phase.”

“They really hate when ya call it a phase,” Ikuo quipped, looking at peace as he was laying back in the grass, sunning himself.

Kaito chuckled. “It’s not a phase, you guys. I’m totally gonna be doing theater stuff for the rest of my life. It’s my calling.”

Shuuichi rolled his eyes, “You wish that was your phase. I remember a teen Kaito who thought petty crime made you cool.”

Kaito blanched, face notably paling, as he said, “Shuuichi! I!... It wasn’t a lot of crime… I was hanging out with a bad crowd, that’s not… don’t tell people about stuff like that.”

“I’m telling on you. I told you I would when we were teens, and I’m following through. Told you you’d be embarrassed someday.” Shuuichi teased, before saying dryly to Kokichi, “Kaito went through a phrase where he was breaking into places just because, graffiti’d some buildings, and stole a few things… in his defense, yes, he was hanging out with ‘friends’ who were doing that. But Kaito, you’re literally one of the richest people in Luminary. You’re a Momota. It was always uncool when you did it.”

“Yeah, yeah, I get that now.” Kaito mumbled, face red, clearly embarrassed. “And I definitely exaggerated how much I was doing when I was telling you about it as teens, Shuuichi. I really didn’t do that much, I just watched them do stuff… Don’t tell Tim or Miya about that stuff. They’ll never take me seriously if I catch them doing it.”

Kokichi’s eyebrows raised, and while he’d never thought Kaito had done that kind of stuff...with the context of hanging out with ‘friend’ who did it? Kokichi could see how Kaito had been pulled in. He sighed, shaking his head. “I married a petty B&E thief...I guess I could have worse taste…”

He put a hand over his face, though the other never let go of holding Kaito’s hand. “Uuuu… If Tim or Miya do that kind of stuff… I’m going to be so-! Disappointed. I’ll have so many ‘hey kiddo’ talks the emotional openness is gonna start feelin’ drafty.”

Ikuo snorted slightly, knowing that that was a very real threat. He might not have been around for Kokichi’s teen years--which he deeply regretted, honestly--but his son’s disappointment had always been a bitter pill. 

“I’ll at least hope they don’t pick up smoking. I don’t know anyone who thinks it’s a cool thing, so many it’s in a different category, but...of all the mistakes they could make, I really hope they don’t put their bodies on the line.”

“Yeah, smokings dumb… unless it’s for ritual purposes.” Kaito mused, laughing sheepishly, “They both may end up smoking a liiiittle bit for ritual purposes…”

“Does Tim actually believe in Atua?” Shuuichi asked, looking at Kaito curiously, “Have you two had that talk?”

“He!... doooooes not.” Kaito confessed, sighing in obvious disappointment, “At least, not really. Apparently, he only went to service in the military because they gave the kids who went to temple snacks. Says that Atua’s just a thing my family made up to rule Luminary…”

“...wow.” Shuuichi said, giving Kaito a concerned look, “He said all that to you?”

Kaito gave a small, strained grin, shrugging slightly, “He didn’t mean to hurt me or anything. That’s just, ya know… what he was told growing up. Can’t fault him for that. And, ya know…” Kaito shrugged, “There’s some truth in all that. It’s just… not the whole truth. That’s all.”

“But! He still might want to try the rituals someday! So, ya know… that might be a thing someday.”

...well.

Kokichi frowned slightly, rubbing Kaito’s hand as he remarked on...the differing views he and his son had on religion. But they had all agreed to have Miya raised as an Atuan so...she’d still be doing the rituals. 

“Unless it’s for rituals,” he nodded. “But...speaking about that, is there anything we can do to...I don’t know. Help, or make the experience better? Now that you’ve had a ritual at the castle?”

Smiling a bit, Kokichi amended, “I know you don’t totally remember it, but...I mean, it’s a special practice to you, and to Miya in the future. If there’s anything we can do to help out, I wanna.”

“Um…” Kaito paused, thinking about it. The ritual had kind of been a mess this year… all of his religious stuff had been a mess this last year. Turns out, it was hard to do it without a temple helping you… “I guess… maybe next year we, or, I, should do it someplace other than my shrine… I mean, the shrine’s ventilated, which is good, but those fumes are strong, and taking breaks hotboxing by stepping out into the hallway for a bit is… maybe not the best way to coordinate breaks? I mean, we can’t have me running off, you guys saw why. I’m out of it, during those rituals, but the shrine’s too condensed to stay in all day. The rooms I would do the ritual in back at home were these big, spacious temple rooms, and there was usually a lot of us there, with priestesses checking in on us pretty regularly, and if you wanted to get away from the smoke a bit, it was usually as easy as just going across the room, or going into one of the adjacent rooms… so maybe if we could find two rooms that can be locked but are connected? One with smoke and one without it. And the without it one having a window, would be nice…”

Shuuichi, who had been listening to this quietly… suddenly narrowed his eyes, “What do you mean, ‘theres a lot of us there’?”

Kaito paused… before smiling brightly at Shuuichi, “Hm?”

“What do you mean? Momota’s all do the rituals on their own, don’t they? So that no one can make up prophecies by claiming you said this, this, or that?” Shuuichi was looking increasingly pissed, as Kaito continued to grin blankly at him. “Kaito. Maki and I vouched for you that you did this on your own all day every year… you do, don’t you?”

“It gets lonely!” Kaito suddenly said, looking genuinely guilty as he ran his hand on the back of his neck, “And, like… the temples are always full of people doing the ritual too… Soooo, maaaybe, I’d….” Kaito chuckled nervously, “I’d always start on my own, but I’d get lonely and ask the priestess in charge of checking in on me to sneak me into one of the temple group rooms, usually with other priestess’s or friends we could trust not to say anything. And, like, I’m technically not one of Atua’s chosen chosen anymore, cause I gave up the claim to throne, so they said it was okay!”

“If you don’t do it alone, why were we all alone in the temple with you the year me and Maki snuck in to do it with you!?”

Kaiot grinned, “...well, I wasn’t alone that ritual either, was I? I was with friends I could trust not to say anything already, so I wouldn’t have snuck out to join a group with you guys there. Come on, stop looking at me like that, I wasn’t trying to keep it from you guys. I just… the priestess’s would have gotten in trouble if the wrong person heard I was sneaking out! I wasn’t in the habit of talking about it!”

“I’m not pissed you kept it a secret, I’m pissed we locked you in a small hotbox by yourself all day with nothing but nuts and water because I thought you were used to that.”

Kaito shrugged. “I was fiiine… like, that’s how I’m supposed to do it. So likely I wouldn’t have gotten hurt.”

Shuuichi put his head in his hands and just groaned.

Kokichi took in all of Kaito’s requests, nodding a bit as he worked it out in his head. Two connected rooms that would be able to have a lock between them...and the ‘smoke free’ one having a window… And then making sure the room Kaito would be smoking in wouldn’t need to be used, like, the day after, so they could air it out and clean so there wouldn’t be any surprises for people with asthma or other lung problems…

That’s why it had been convenient to do it in his shrine, since Kaito was the only one using, yanno, his personal shrine. But...it really hadn’t been a good time. Even if Kaito was intentionally out of it...he’d managed to wander off, and when he and Shuuichi checked on him he’d been, just...too out of it. 

...which he wasn’t supposed to be because…

Kokichi’s face fell and he turned in Kaito’s lap a little, looking up at his husband with an extremely worried expression. He sighed softly, reaching up to stroke Kaito’s cheek for a moment. “...we’ll find a better system for you. Bigger rooms with easy movement and...a better system of looking after you, okay? If there’s a safe way to do the rituals, then that’s what we’ll do.” He lowered his voice slightly, not wanting to air anything people didn’t want aired. “Maybe we can talk to Priest Bullworth about it. How it’s gonna be implemented in the temple, and all that.”

Kaito grinned, leaning into the stroke a bit. He felt bad for making Kokichi worry-- and, well, for pissing off Shuuichi-- but he really felt like he had been fine. Again, he was supposed to do the rituals alone in a room with just someone checking in on him now and again… but before Kaito was truly gone gone, back in Luminary, he had always gotten sort of uncomfortable and lonely, sitting in a temple room by himself, knowing there were so many people just outside the door and down the stairs all enjoying the ritual together…

How could he have resisted? Especially half-baked.

(...maaaaybe… not something he wanted Miyako to take up after him, though. She was Momota blood too, regardless of her legal last name, and so she was also supposed to one day do it the way he had… but like… it sucked, doing that stuff on your own.)

(And probably wasn’t super good for you.)

(... it was strange. Kaito almost always felt like Atua was listening. A comforting feeling of knowing his god was there somewhere. But in the early parts of the rituals, while he was waiting for visions, for a sign, for anything… he always ended up feeling like Atua was far away…)

(Lonely.)

“I have to talk to the priests soon either way. Savannah’s a devout follower of Atua, maybe one of the most honestly devoted followers I’ve ever met. Her, the priestess’s, Kore… people who really believe are few and far between. Savannah deserves her place among the temples. She’s going to be an amazing priestess, someday.” Kaito said, extremely fondly.

Not only that, it had taken a considerable amount of negotiating, nudging, and one straight up bribe of 500 gold coins for some housekeeper paperwork to get ‘lost’ to put her and Odette in the positions to become Acolytes. Those positions were usually exclusively for kids who were struggling to get adopted in the temple orphanages. Getting Indentured kids even considered was a trial, since they were always competing with kids who had more direct access and favor with the temples. Kaito still couldn’t… understand, knowing how much trouble and effort it had taken them to get there, and how protective the temple was of their own… to think they just… cast them out? Over an accusation of demon consorting??

Kaito, admittedly, wasn’t as familiar with the capital temples priestess’s as he was the royal castle temple’s, but that still seemed so outrageously out of character to him. He couldn’t understand it. 

“But, yeah, we can ask him… maybe it’ll be okay for me to go to the temple when it’s built, do it with them…” Kaito thought of his last interaction with all of them and said uncertainly, “Maybe. They are… pretty wary of me. Maybe someday.”

Kokichi nodded a bit, remembering the girl Kaito was talking about. He...still didn’t really know what to think about her situation. Going forward, it was clear--she was settling in with her foster family, and Kaito was going to introduce her to the Atuan community in Dicea. However becoming a priestess worked in Dicea, Kokichi was sure that they could figure out a way for her dreams to be realized. 

But...being accused of consorting with demons just...out of nowhere? And despite there being no proof, still being able to cast out the young girls anyway? Back to a life the priestesses would know wouldn’t treat them well? Kokichi wouldn’t dare even imply it, but...that didn’t sound like the teachings of a loving god at all. Though, little about the structure of Luminary did. 

It was only luck that they weren’t sent back after Maki had collected the kids… Kokichi had no idea what would’ve happened to the girls otherwise, left in an otherwise empty orphanage. 

Sighing softly, Kokichi settled back down in Kaito’s lap. “Maybe… I hope you all can find some common ground…” He frowned slightly, voice going soft again. Kokichi...wasn’t entirely sure about saying this, but...he wanted to be honest with his partners. “...it bothers me that you don’t have...a religious community around you here. I know it wouldn’t be the same as what you had in Luminary, and I can’t force people to just...suddenly open up. But I know how much something like that means, and...it just...bothers me that you don’t have it. Makes me hope for a future where you do.”

“Yeah.” Kaito said, letting out a heavy breath, like he was letting out a pocket of air that he had been holding for… awhile. The breath the most honest example of his feelings on the matter, as he gave the band performing on the stage a notably tired look… before he gave Kokichi a small grin, shrugging, “But, ya know… maybe with time, right? It’s… only been just about a year. Really I’ve just gotten here, so, ya know… and besides, so long as I have my faith? It’s fine… the rituals, the temples, the priestess’s, the symbols and sigils… all that’s just fluff, really. Just extra stuff to make you feel connected to the faith, or to give the temples the clout they need to take care of people. When it comes to Atua himself? He doesn’t give a shit about any of it. He doesn’t care if you even know who he is, or denounce him, or...whatever you do, really. He loves ya anyway…”

This wasn’t a new speech for Kaito, nothing earth shacking or revealing in the words. He just said them with such… certainty. And there was a peace in his expression as he said it. Kaito’s life, honestly, a considerable amount of it, had been extremely unstable, and Kaito over his life had learned that there weren’t a lot of things he could really count on, and had sort of accepted that for what it was… but he had never asked anything of Atua. Never expected anything from Atua, who Kaito had been strictly taught by his mentor, did not interfere… but did love him. Very much. 

Perhaps taking comfort in the unconditional love of a being you expect literally nothing from, not even proof of existence, was cheap to the point of being depressing… but Kaito was a person who desperately needed to be loved. Would cling onto scraps of it, take every spare thoughtful glance, kind word, restrained hand, and take those scraps and tape it all together into something that resembled a full picture, and proudly display it, claiming, “See?! They do love me!”

So, for someone who needed love like that? Temple or not, Atua was a peaceful comfort to him. 

Though… “Having the community stuff again someday would be nice.” Kaito admitted, “I’ll work harder at it someday. When there’s less going on. It’ll be fine.”

Kokichi nodded slightly, more than familiar with that sentiment by now. While his first impression, that claiming that you could still be Atuan while not doing anything, or actively renouncing religion just was a loophole to continue the power of the theocracy...for the people who did believe? It was likely a big comfort. Knowing that no matter what, you were doing well by your god. 

Tipping his head back, Kokichi nuzzled Kaito’s chest a bit. “I know it’s something that you’d do, but...Kai-chan has my support, always. While I can’t connect on that level...whether you wanna tell me more stories about the saints or talk about Atua in general, or you wanna go meet other Atuans, or you need help preparing for rituals...I’m here for ya. In any way I can be.”

He held Kaito’s hands, gently rubbing his thumbs across the tops of them as he idly watched the band on stage perform, comfortable in the sun and in his husband’s lap. Everything was still new and there was always so much going on… Time and patience. And they’d slowly figure out their lives.  

-

Itch Snow was, by careful, careful design, not a man who got intimidated.

Overwhelmed? Certainly. Almost constantly. But intimidated? It was a very different feeling. That initial apprehensive feeling, of knowing failure and death and pain were on the horizon, didn’t bother Itch. He was always either fine, or defeated. There was never that in between moment, where his body shook and terror squeezed his throat as he realized he could fail, and felt that worry slowly bloom into full on terror, defeated before defeat was actually at hand. 

It was a trait in himself he valued. That willingness to continue on until he literally had no other choice. Until all other options seemed impossible, or pointless.

That was in the waking world though. Where Ichiro’s illusions of control were significantly more developed. In his dreams?

“...hah...hah…!!”

A boy-- and why, why was he a boy?? Small, too small, everyone else was too fucking big, it wasn’t fair-- ran through the house, covering his mouth with his hands as his heart tried to beat itself violently out of his chest, trying to keep the sound of his panicked screaming quiet, because it would hear. How could it not hear? Itch was being so loud… he had to get his breathing under control. He had too or he was going to die.

Itch ran through a mansion, a manor, beautifully designed and richly decorated. The sort of home he would stare at longingly, would have quiet, embarrassed daydreams about living in, the bits and pieces of it he was allowed to see, when he was taken too and from the kitchens. He had been so stupid. So stupid. He had been sold on the poison taster track, had volunteered for it, because he had been enchanted at the idea of being brought into peoples-- real peoples-- homes, of getting to see how they lived, literally eat the sorts of food they got to eat. His eyes, wide with wonder and green with envy, had been bigger than his common sense, had ignored the dire warnings of the mortality rates of his ‘career’ track.

‘Career’... ha. An endless, endless game of russian roulette. Literally begging to be murdered in one of these lovely, lovely homes…. And as he ran into the study, quickly closing the door behind him, trying to keep his breathing under control, it looked like he was going to get his wish.

He had lost control of Tom.

Kokichi looked around, a little...awed by the...home? Was it a home? The structure kind of looked like it, but...the decor looked like...Kokichi didn’t even know. A really fancy theater, maybe. 

But...instead of being welcoming or grand...the whole place just felt...oppressive. Mean-spirited and...frightening. ...like someone who didn’t belong was...trying to hide…

Kokichi’s face softened and in a few steps he found himself in a study, watching a child run in. A child who looked like they were hiding from someone so...probably wouldn’t take well to seeing an adult in there. Taking a breath, Kokichi condensed himself not down to the shadowy, indistinct figure he usually was when he came into other people’s minds by accident, but even further, all the way down to a little lavender-tinted ball of light, though it was much brighter than it had been when he couldn’t keep a form before. 

“Do you need a place to hide?” the light whispered, not quite speaking in sound, per se, but making itself apparent to the child. 

Itch’s eyes widened, following the little lavender light with both shock and wonder. It was stupid, Incredibly stupid… but his first, immediate thought was ‘fairy?’

Stupid. Fairy tales weren’t real. Demons weren’t real. Not gods or saints or anything out of anyone’s stupid fucking dreams and wish fulfillment. The only thing that was real was that Itch was small and powerless and Tom had fucking run out of reasons not to kill him.

And fuck, fuck fuck, Itch couldn’t think of anything to say in his defense.

But, regardless of what was real or not… there was something here, and it might have an idea of where to go? Stupid. Stop being stupid. Just ignore it, keep your breathing low, you’re already hiding, you can do th-

“Ichirooo?” A voice giggled in the distance. But not distant enough. Too close. “Come on, where’d you go? Come out~” and then, in a sing-song voice, the voice cheerfully called out, closer, way closer, “The ship, it swayed, heave~ho, heave~ho…”

Itch’s eyes started to water, and he looked at the stupid fairy fucking thing, nodding desperately, still covering his mouth with both hands. He was breathing too loud.

As Itch’s consciousness recognized Kokichi, faintly, delicate, translucent wings appeared at the “back” of the ball of light. If Itch believed he was looking at a fairy, then...well, that’s what it was. 

And for a moment, thankfully the same moment Ichiro was thinking, the fairy paused. The name was obvious, of course, but...the voice was what occurred to Kokichi first. The same giggles that plagued his own nightmares for months. 

...he was in Itch’s mind. Another figure that had made Kokichi wake up with gasps and tears, trembling into his partners until he somehow managed to fall asleep again. 

...Ichiro was afraid of Tom? 

Flittering over to the side of the room, acting far more like a creature that actually flew, than just a figment of light, Kokichi hovered. “Pull the green book here--there’s a space that’s a secret! You can hide, and it’ll be alright.”

Itch’s brow furrowed, a little wary. Sure, you heard about lords and ladies filling their home with strange little passages and  trap doors, but Itch had always gotten the impression that was more fanciful ‘servant daydream’ stuff than-

“Itch?” Tom whispered into the crack of the door. “Don’t you want to play?”

Itch bolted for the bookshelf, as Tom tried the handle of the door, giggling manically as he realized it was locked, before starting to kick at the door, the hinges making a worrying ‘cracking’ sound. Grabbing for the green book, Itch took a step back as the bookcase swung open like a door, amazed, before another heavy CRACK from the door got him moving, moving his way into the secret passageway as the bookshelf closed behind him. 

The door to the study crumbled, and Itch didn’t stick around to find out if Tom had seen the tail end of the bookshelf closing, running down the park passageway, cement tapping against his shoes, the echoed of his own movement unbearably loud to him. Tom would be able to hear, Tom could hear shit like that, Tom would find him!

But as Itch got the one end of the passageway, another back end of some secret passage more obvious from within the secret hallway, he quickly opened it up and stepped out, noting the following fairy and, pausing just long enough to give it a chance to get through, closing the door behind him.

Itch’s whole body winced as a familiar, old voice said, “Scab? What are you doing over there, go back on the stool before I knock some sense into you.”

Itch looked back to the depressingly familiar that was, technically, his ‘mentor’. Miss Hatchery. Famous for being one of the oldest poison tasters to currently live. Infamous for needing a new mentee every six months.

The two things unrelated… of course.

Itch trembled, wanting to argue with the older woman, warn the bustling kitchen of cooks, servants and Indenturdes, we have to run, we have to run. But Itch hesitated for half a second, and half a second was too long for Miss Hatchery, who reached over and without any hesitation, slapped the boy across the face, almost knocking him off his feet, except for the fact that she grabbed his upper arm before he managed to fall, dragging him over to the stool in the corner while his vision was still spinning.

“Stay here and don’t be an embarrassment to me. That’s an order, Scab.”

‘Not Scab,’ Itch thought, almost giddy in his familiar, smug hatred, the room evening out in his knocked around vision as he leaned into that comforting fury, ‘I’m not Scab. Order doesn't count, if it’s for some poor asshole named Scab, bitch.’

Itch sat at the stool as the kitchen went on around him, looking around warily. This was bad, but Tom would be worse, when he found them. “We need to get out of here.” Itch quietly informed the Not-A-Fairy.

Kokichi quickly followed Ichiro, not wanting to slow down the boy any more. And all the while, he was trying to think. Okay. Ichiro was scared of his brother. Which...considering Tom, Tomo, was a serial killer...yeah. Itch taking advantage of his conditioning wasn’t trust or security. 

(And...Kokichi hadn’t forgotten about the brothers when he’d thought of his list of people to ask about getting rid of their conditioning. He just...didn’t know if he had it in him to visit them, at least at the beginning. He wasn’t going to try and fix Itch’s conditioning now, but...he was getting a trial by fire in another way.)

...but everything else, Kokichi was learning, just barely holding in a shocked gasp as that woman (familiar to Itch, an adult figure, but not trusted either) full-on slapped Ichiro across the face, was that...these were memories. And while you could learn to let your past go...you couldn’t face them and say that they were wrong. They were your experiences. 

Itch...really had no one in the world. 

“...okay,” Kokichi softly answered, trying to think quickly. “...what are you going to do when you get out, though? ...should we find your sister?”

...it was a gamble.

Itch winced, purely on instinct, though maybe not for reason that were easy to explain. He gave the fairy a nervous, suspicious look… but glanced at the door, something akingly like hope at the idea.

Maki didn’t fit Itch’s world view.

She didn’t make sense. Nothing about her worked the way Itch understood things. She wasn’t stupid or naive, willing to help becuase she was easy to take advantage of. She was ruthless, and anything she lacked in intelligence she made up for in a viscous willingness to follow through on simple ideas. Which… worked. Itch trusted she was competent, despite never trusting anyone stupid enough to try to help in exchange for nothing, which was an obvious sign of someone you couldn’t trust to boil water, let alone save your life.

And she… really never did ask for anything. She just kept coming back. Helping the kids at the orphanage for… no fucking reason. Nothing Itch could work out, anyway. He couldn’t figure out why someone as ruthless and competent and angry as Maki was would… do that. What did she get out of it?

He didn’t understand her.

It was like she was a heroine of some stupid kids story, or was playing at being one of those bullshit saints… it shouldn’t work. She shouldn’t work.

...he hated how badly he wanted to go hide in her skirt.

As Itch fussed and hesitated, trying to work out what he was going to do next, his eyes widened in horror as he heard Miss Hatchery say in offended anger, “Young Snow, what are you doing here? If you think I’m not telling Alvery-AH!”

Itch dove for behind the counter, shakily holding his finger up to the fairy, quietly telling it to stay quiet, as people in the kitchen started screaming, wet sounds of flesh tearing and loud, heavy THUMPS as one by one bodies started violently hitting the floor, Itch scooting his stupidly small body across the floor and ducking under a carving table, while above him Tom giggle, “Sorry to interrupt your work! Has anyone seen my brother? I’m gonna give him everything he’s ever asked for~... HEY! I SAID-” another slice, another violent thump as one more scream was cut short, hitting the ground, “-HAVE YOU SEEN ITCH!? ARE YOU ALL DEAF!??”

Itch trembled violently under the table, eyeing the door as Tom started to make his way to the other side of the kitchen, about to make a break for it when Tom ended up on the other side of the room. He didn’t want to die like this. Tom would make it last. It was going to hurt.

He hadn’t helped anyone yet!

Worse, worse, it was always going to be worse, it was going to be worse, he didn’t want to die, please, please, he wanted things to be better before he died- 

He bolted for the door.

It was...weird to describe, because Kokichi was in Itch’s mind, and the child version of him Kokichi was flittering beside was just his self-awareness, while everything here was him...but he couldn’t read Itch’s mind, really. But things like...strong emotions? The way events stopped while Ichiro was thinking about something, even if to him they seemed instantaneous, because...well, that was how internal monologues worked… Kokichi could get a sense of those things. 

And...things started to slot into place, since Itch had provided his own puzzle pieces. 

He was scared of his brother, who murdered indiscriminately--which was true--and believed that Tomo would turn on him too. Despite seeing the whirlwind of Maki before his eyes, Itch couldn’t trust it, because he didn’t understand. He didn’t understand...the limits of love. That stances weren’t blanket for everyone. That...people made exceptions, did crazy things, because of love. 

Because throughout his life...he’d never been given a chance, and the love he received was either cut short, or with a condition. And for someone who had never experienced anything else...you couldn’t just tell them that that wasn’t how things were. But how could…

Kokichi’s light, which he’d dimmed when Itch motioned him into hiding, flared as Itch made a run for it, and without thinking, Kokichi put himself between Itch and his creation of Tom. Flaring even brighter as he said to Tom, “STOP. You love him, you wouldn’t do this!”

...and in another moment...Kokichi had...no idea why he believed that so strongly. 

You couldn’t give away a piece of yourself without consequence. 

Souls/consciousness/energy didn’t work that way.

From wherever he was, Tom took a gasp in his sleep, a feeling so foriegn to him, stretching him out, that later he’d never even be able to actually describe it, despite this not being the first time he’s felt that way in  the last six months, even…

Tom wasn’t an empath. Wasn’t even close. But Kokichi was an extremely powerful one, and for this instance, that was enough, as Tom glanced around curiously, unalarmed. Unconfused.

And his eyes, calm, vaguely happy, vaguely insane… watched Itch run into the hallway, and then focused on the… heh. ‘Fairy’.

He smiled. Sharp and knowing. “Tsk.” he tutted, shaking his head at the strange, powerful creature that, for whatever reason, had apparently decided to meld itself into him. Amused, he said, “First me, now my brother? You’re a real busy-body, you know that? Is it a kink thing? Heh-heh-heh,” he giggled, waving his hand dismissively, suddenly, inexplicably holding a knife as he said, “It’s okay, I won’t judge. Just don’t actually touch us and I won’t kill you~”

His warning to the creature given, Tom looked back towards the hallway, looking around, absorbing what the creature knew… he giggled again. Shaking his head, before giving the creature a little, almost apologetic shrug. “Sorry,” he said, “Itch has trust issues. I’ll go talk to him. Give me a second.”

And, casually, he walked out to the hallway, entirely unconcerned about anything else other than going to comfort and reassure his poor, insanely paranoid brother.

Kokichi...blinked. Though no one else could see that, since he didn’t actually have a body right now. Well. As his consciousness. His actual body was safely at home, snuggled comfortably between his lovers. 

But...he...he hadn’t opened a bridge to Tom’s mind. The two had been separated in their isolation for a reason, and it wasn’t the word ‘isolation’. But...this wasn’t just Kokichi overlaying Itch’s creation of Tom with his own memories either. Especially considering Kokichi’s memories were...murder-y. 

This was...actually Tom. Somehow. But...connected to him…

Kokichi had been about to ask, ‘What do you mean, ‘first me’, but…

...he had seen the ‘men in the dark’ before. He’d visited someone who had conditioning before he was “awakened” as an Empath. 

...he had...given a piece of himself to someone, something so loud that it alerted the Empath community. 

...Tom was here. 

...Kokichi really needed to talk to Alter Ego. But for the time being...he had been summoned here to help. So he would help. Even these two. 

Sighing, the fairy bobbed in the air. “No offense, but I really don’t want to touch either of you. I’m here because he wanted help, that’s all. I...didn’t actually know that would bring you here too, but...we’re here so we’ll help.”

Kokichi didn’t really want to leave Tom and Itch alone so...he followed after Tom, just peeking into the hall. A glowing fairy wasn’t the most inconspicuous thing, but...well, that’s what he had to work with.

Itch was literally crawling up the wall, desperately banging against it, hping there might be some hidden door or something because otherwise… it was a dead end. A total dead end. He was going to die. He was going to die. Tom was going to hurt him…

Itch flinched, wanting to vomit, he hadn’t wanted it like this, he wanted to be in control, he didn’t want to be small and helpless and… he just wanted control. Control over his own life. Control over others. Control over the world. Everything would be okay if they’d just listen to him. He was right, he knew he was right! Existence is a curse, life is punishment, everyone was out to get you-

“Blah, blah, blah, same speech, different day.” Tom muttered, squatting down in front of Itch, smiling sharply as his eyes glinted with mischievous affection as he said, “...I’m not gonna lie, though, I missed it. You’re so crazy and stupid… I’ve missed you. H~eeeey, come on, would you look at me? I’m not gonna kill you…”

Tom looked at the curled, trembling Itch, pressed and hiding his face into the wall, panicked, miserable tears streaming down his face… Tom sighed. “I swear, you kill a few people for the giggles and everyone suddenly thinks you’re some sort of mindless killing machine-”

“Shut up, Tom! You do go blank sometimes! Don’t fucking play like you don’t!” Itch suddenly shouted, spinning hotly, deeply offended at Tom’s flippant dismissal of his fear. As he turned, he was suddenly a little older. Thirteen, body starting to change, a little bit of childhood fat still clinging to him around his middle and in his face, despite the rest of him turning lean and thin from the months of dangerous travel to Dicea. Tom, in turn, looked around curiously at the farm they were hiding in, rain pouring outside, Tom himself shockingly thin, eyes almost gaunt from hunger, skin burnt from the sun and his own growth spurt not quite kicking in, still worryingly small, Itch a foot taller than himself.

Still, Tom didn’t look intimidated as Itch shouted, furious, “If you hadnt acted like a fucking psycho, they would have kept us! You fucking did this to us! This is your fault! You promised! You promised you’d stop! You’re so fucking stupid!!”

Tom gave him a calm, somewhat loopy smile, his gaze far away and distant as he said softly, “...I liked the puppy. He made me sad.”

“God you’re such a fucking psycho!” Itch shouted, grabbing Tom from the front of his shirt and violently shaking him, Tom allowing it, staying limp and easy to move as Itch shook him, before pulling back his fist and punching Tom across the face, Tom easily falling into the mud of the farm, just laying still and waiting to see if Itch was going to do anything else… and as Itch just stood there and breathed shakily, Tom looked up at him and smiled.

“Are you done with me yet?” Tom asked, entirely at ease. “You don’t need me anymore. You’re in Dicea. You can just leave me now.”

“...” Itch twitched, staring at Tom in agony… before cursing, turning away from him, running his hands over his short hair, scratching his skull as he said miserably to himself, “Why don’t I? He’s so crazy… we’re so bad for each other. Why don’t I just forget about him??”

Tom shrugged, looking at nothing, still sitting in the dirt. “You love me?”

“Shut up.” Itch hissed, “That doesn’t mean anything.”

Kokichi quietly watched, even as the scenery changed, and even as Itch started getting violent. And...well. He had to admit that Tom had a lot of things Kokichi just...wouldn’t be able to provide for Itch. Their history and hatred and...love. The kind of love that Dr. Mariah would point to as love not being synonymous with being good to someone. 

And, well...Kokichi didn’t really want to be punched and kicked around. 

These two were...really wrapped up in each other in just the worst way…

Sighing, Kokichi flitted forward, his fantasy wings flicking in the rain. “...why doesn’t it mean anything? You two stick together even past the point of convenience, or using each other as tools… It’s sure without any compassion, but that’s a form of love too. A bond that isn’t...really based on anything logical.”

“That’s stupid.”

Tom laughed, “We’re stupid.”

“I am not!” Itch shouted, and suddenly he was much younger. Four, with clothes that didn’t fit right, and a bad bruise all up and down the side of his face that had punctured open his skin, not fresh but still healing. Trembling and shaking and eyes wet with hysterical unshed tears as he said, “I am not! Everyone else is stupid! If they weren’t, the solution would be obvious!” 

Tom looked at the small, four year old version of his brother, and he was suddenly exactly as Kokichi remembered him- tall, filled out, handsome and healthy, the pain and wear and tear of his childhood put behind him, able to move on from it in a way that Itch had never been able to as he sneered, butterfly knife in hand, blade suddenly at the child’s throat and held there as he asked sweetly, “Everyone dead?”

The small child flinched, clearly terrified. Legs shaking, tears rolling down his eyes… but he stayed standing as he trembled out, “Th-the others a-agreed with m-me.”

At this Tom‘s expression slightly softened, and the knife disappeared as he sighed, leaning back on his hands, sitting on his butt, legs crossed and looking at the ceiling as he said quietly, “They were either crazy too, stupid, or taking advantage of us… and honestly, by this point I don’t even care which it was. I just wanted to make you happy. Nothing makes you happy… we’re too broken, Itch. I don’t know if there’s really any coming back, for us. Maybe I should have put us out of our misery. Everyone else’s misery too…”

Tom looked down at the small child, and smiled sadly. “But I couldn’t… not you. Never you. You make me happy… isn’t that unfair? I get to be happy, and you have to stay miserable, and nothing is better for either of us…”

As Itch collapsed onto his butt, sobbing small, pitiful toddler tears, sixteen year old Tom watched him idly… before glancing at the ‘fairy’. 

He seemed to be silently considering something… before saying softly. “What if we asked you to?” he asked the fairy quietly, “Would you do it then?”

He was even as the age Kokichi had thought was similar to his own, so seeing Ichiro as a toddler wasn’t what cemented it, but...they were children, through and through. Children who had issues that had only been exacerbated by the cruel world they had been in. Making mistakes big enough that there wasn’t any protection, things that would shield others easily. 

It wasn’t fair...and the brothers had leaned into that. 

He couldn’t tell Itch, but… Kokichi sighed as he referenced their time with the Remnants. Considering they had been dispensing spores and the brothers said they’d met them in Danganronpa… Kokichi had a guess. A group who had taken Queen Enoshima’s hatred to an active level. They didn’t want everyone dead. They just wanted humans dead. 

In a nihilistic world without compassion, and without being able to see it...Kokichi could at least understand where Itch’s view came from. He just...didn’t know how to change it…

The fairy stilled. Despite the vague words knowing exactly what Tom meant. ...this wasn’t playing god, shaping people to your will. ...would you help people without a way forward find happiness?

“...the goal is for where you are now to do that,” Kokichi softly murmured back. “To...give you options to do it yourself. You two are so young...you have a great capacity to change on your own.”

“...I don’t feel right doing something like that. Even with consent. But…” The fairy dimmed, dipping a bit. “...I can...help you...more ‘hands on’, like this, if things don’t get better. Maybe…”

Tom listened to this, Itch staring between them, confused what was going on… before smirking. Shaking his head.

“I know you can’t understand why,” Tom giggled, “But you really are selfish. That’s one thing I’m pretty sure we’re on the nose for.”

Giving Itch another fond look, he stood up, giving Kokichi a mean, cruel smile as he said, “If you can’t help us your way, and you won’t help us our way, why don’t you go ahead and just leave us alone, ‘fairy’. Kink or no kink, this is a weird way to kill time.”

Stepping forward, leaning down to the fairy, grinning viciously, Tom said as a child version of his brother trembled in the background, reaching his hand forward, his thumb cocking back his index finger, “Go. Away.”

And he flicked at the little ball of light.

Tom, too, was just a child. Kokichi knew exactly why he was selfish. He was refusing to give up his personal morals to potentially help people that really needed it. Who wouldn’t care if there was nothing left of themselves if Kokichi dug his hands in and meddled with their minds. 

...but even for two people who regularly starred in his nightmares...Kokichi still thought there was worth to every life. That there was something special the two of them brought to the world, even...if it hadn’t happened yet. 

Kokichi huffed, zipping around to avoid Tom’s fingers and...well, there was no body to flick. He was just light. “You’re not staying here, you know. And...maybe you can call it revenge, that I won’t make it so you’ll have nothing left of yourself. That’s a form of death too.”

He glanced to Itch, hurting to see a child cry, but...for once, he didn’t think he could help, when someone reached out to him. Hopefully the isolation therapy would do the trick. 

“...I really do hope things get better for the both of you. Though that probably doesn’t matter or mean anything to you.”

The light went out. 

And a message went out into the ether, a pupil asking to talk with a mentor.

Tom only had half a second to register that anything was about to change. And that wasn’t long enough to really have any coherent thoughts about it. But before the light went out and he forgot everything and woke up alone and trapped again, he felt… resigned amusement. A dull lack of surprise.

He wished he had spent that second looking back to Itch. 

When he woke, he remembered nothing, and giggled nervously, staring at the moon through the window. Thinking of Itch. Of everything he had entirely failed to give to his brother, no matter how much of himself Tom had given. Of Itch’s endless, endless misery and anger.

Giggling again, amused at his own sadness and longing-- such strange things he felt these days, so strongly--Tom ignored his tears, turned over, and went back to sleep.

-

Alter Ego stepped onto the bed, his steps almost soundless. 

His voice, feeling the urgency in Kokichi’s call, was sober and serious as he asked, “What’s happened? Are you alright?”

Kokichi was sitting cross-legged on his bed, looking...more contemplative than anything, though...it would be a lie to say he wasn’t upset. Disappointed that...there was nothing he could do. 

“Someone reached out to me again,” Kokichi quietly started, his gaze steady but saddened. “...it was Itch.” The kid who planned to make the world his suicide note, and who had kidnapped him, Kokichi didn’t say. 

“...and I found out that the person who I visited before that I gave a piece of myself to was Tom. He ended up showing up too.” The kid who had encouraged others to stab at my husband’s hands, had murdered countless people and creatures, and who Kokichi had been forced to watch flay a woman alive, he didn’t say. 

Alter Ego already knew. 

“...they’re really...warped. You can tell without being an Empath, but...it’s horrible, seeing someone have no concept of love or compassion in reality…” Kokichi sighed, pressing a palm into one of his eyes. “...Tom asked me that...if they consented to it, if I would change them. All...Empath-like. And I said no.”

Alter Ego looked around, fur slightly on end, waiting for Chibi Kaito to leap at him again, as was the small manifestations inclination during the first parts of these visits… but moved closer to Kokichi when the small creature didn’t appear, unaware the small thing was hiding beneath the bed, resting it’s overly large head against his overly small knees. Alarmed and nervous at the feelings Kokichi had brought with him and waiting to see what kind of mood his husband was actually in before deciding how to act.

As Chibi Kaito listened below, Alter Ego tilted their feline head at their friend… before sighing. “I see… there’s quite a lot I find alarming about that, but let me start with this. You were involuntarily pulled again tonight? You didn’t go willingly?”

Kokichi nodded, back to resting his chin in his hand glumly. “I just…’woke up’ there, I suppose. Couldn’t feel anything...reaching out to me, or like there was something I needed to go towards. I was just...there. And when I’m there...people are always stressed out or depressed or...struggling in some way. So I try to help.”

“...but I don’t think I can help them,” Kokichi sighed, closing his eyes for a moment. It wasn’t giving up on them. They were still supported as Diceans. But what they wanted from him personally, or at least what Tom had asked for...Kokichi couldn’t give. And...well. He was supposed to learn how to let go of personal responsibility, wasn’t he?

...it still didn’t feel good.

Alter Ego listened to this… before nodding grimly. “We need to work on that. I know you want to help people, I’m not discouraging that. But just appearing in peoples minds, whether they call out for help or not, isn’t safe for you or them. You’re the only one between the two of you who actually knows what’s going on. We need to make it so you’re in charge of the situation every time you feel the pull.”

“And, frankly…” Alter Ego’s tail twitched, their brow tightening as their wide, golden eyes were lost in thought, “...considering your relationship to the two? It doesn’t feel ‘random’, that you heard and were pulled to their call specifically. I don’t think…”

Alter Ego paused. Seriously considering the wisdom of his theory, not wanting to worry his mentee unnecessarily… but he really couldn’t see any other way this would work, as he said, “I don’t think they’re calling to you. You’re the empath, not them. I think you’re tethering to them in your sleep. And following the tether when you hear them distressed.” Alter Ego’s ear twitched, giving Kokichi a soft, worried look, “You’re calling to them.”

Now that he knew what was happening...it really wasn’t fair to anyone in the equation, even if Kokichi was able to help them out. When you were in someone else’s mind, you had to follow their rules, but...it felt so much more the few times Kokichi had been pulled in. He didn’t want to break the illusion of the dream, even if they wouldn’t remember it, and...he didn’t want to exert his own power and just...magically fix things. He just...wanted to help them fix things themself. 

...but what he wanted and what he did weren’t...always in agreement. 

Kokichi frowned slightly--more than he was already--as he listened to Alter Ego mull over a theory, and when he got to the thesis… Kokichi’s eyes widened before he grimaced. “...that’s really not good… I...don’t think I have a way of knowing the people I’ve gone to before I realized all this, but...since I have? It’s all been people I know…”

Letting out a deep sigh, Kokichi put his head in his hands. “This is really bad…”

He already wasn’t a fan of tethers. But to...what? Be sending out tethers in his true unconsciousness, and always responding to any distress he felt? He was basically...performing surveillance on everyone he knew. Every night. 

The whole room gave the impression of shuddering, Kokichi genuinely disturbed with the thought that he was never giving people the peace of their own minds. 

Alter Ego thought it was… sort of miraculous. In the original sense of the word. Kokichi revealed himself to be stronger and stronger every day, capable of things subconsciously that Alter Ego wasn’t sure he could do with dedicated effort… it had occurred to the feline, before now, that maybe he wasn’t fit to be guiding Kokichi. That maybe he should be finding someone, anyone, more qualified to help Kokichi deal with the sheer… magnitude of his ability.

...but his search for someone who seemed to have a similar power set, and a similar sense of… morality? To be perfectly blunt about it?

Alter Ego had yet to find anyone that he thought Kokichi would be willing to take help from. The best he could do, at the moment, was keep asking questions, keep peeking into minds, sometimes sneaking for the answers in the minds of people he didn’t trust to actually ask. It was dangerous, but Alter Ego had promised to guide Kokichi to his best ability. And that meant sometimes getting answers no one wanted to give.

His next round of inquiries would be finding out the known limits of mass tethering. How other people with the ability handled it, managed it. If they had similar involuntary issues as Kokich, and what they did about it.

Alter Ego was a creature of the minds. He would find the information. He would consider all information a thing his to hunt. To view it any other way put himself and someone he deeply cared about in danger, so he wouldn’t analyze the thoughts any further than that.

“I don’t know if it’s ‘bad’... but it is a problem. And we’ll work it out together. Give me time, I’ll find a solution.” Alter Ego promised, “And until then… I think the next logical step, to protect yourself and the people you find yourself ‘pulled’ into, would be to practice…” Alter Ego paused, realizing he didn’t have a title for the practice, it was just something he recognized as something Kokichi should do… “Omnipresence? No… third person…”

{You need to practice observance without interference, when you wake up in someone’s mind. Decide what the problem is and, if you feel you must interfere, how you will interfere before you do so. You need to be able to send out a pulse, much like how you do for yourself, when you are meditating. A brief moment, where you know everything about them… and then you let it go. Forget. How I did for you, when I searched through your memories, when you were afraid you had given yourself away to Shuuichi.}

{Learn… analyze… and then let go of all knowledge that will not help you, or you do not feel entitled to.}

“It’s not easy.” Alter Ego admitted, “It’ll take practice, and frankly, I’d prefer to wait till you feel stronger. But it seems like the next available precaution for you.”

“...on a less ‘technical’ question…” Alter Ego laid a paw on Kokichi’s knee. “...someone you have no reason to love asked you to do something that repulses you, and if I know you half as well as I think I do, you feel guilty anyway… are you okay?”

“Thank you,” Kokichi sighed. He knew he was asking Alter Ego questions--directly and by circumstance--that they didn’t have an answer for. That...probably only a few people in the world had even a guess on. Not having an answer was fine, was just how you went through life, but...not even knowing where to look for one… It never felt good. He appreciated that Alter Ego was looking regardless. 

Though the step forward they did have a suggestion for… Kokichi didn’t really feel comfortable plunging himself into a person’s information, but… He thought about that night. Finding himself in someone’s consciousness and...not knowing anything. Trying to figure it out on the fly as he talked to them. Making gambles. 

In a sense...trying to mind read. And maybe hurting them in the process… Or at least confusing the hell out of them. 

If he could take in the information to not have to make those gambles, and...even to decide if he should interfere at all...and let the rest of it go? That...might be best until he could get this more under control. 

And while he had not even the faintest idea of how to do that...well, Alter Ego did, so it was a lesson he could learn. ...at another time. Kokichi was doing better by the day, but he still wasn’t up to snuff yet. 

Emotionally, he’d been alright, keeping up his spirits through physical therapy and making it back to his other therapy, though “back” was relative--his therapist had been open to coming to the castle for meetings, though less frequent than Kokichi had had them before. 

But this…

Kokichi huffed, giving Alter Ego a half-amused look. “Why do you have to say it like that? But…” He sighed, looking to the side. “...I think so. I don’t owe them anything, and they’re already being helped in the physical world, but… It’s still shitty. Tom asking me, why...part of me thinks it’s almost a good idea, and...everything that brought them to this point.”

Alter Ego’s ear twitched again, as he said, somewhat lightly back, “Because that’s how it is? The only thing I ever really see bother you is you. You're your worst enemy, easily, and it’s not like you have no competition for that spot. So… I’m just worried you’re beating yourself up again.”

Alter Ego sighed, though, as he listened to Kokichi expand on the issue… “This is one of those things I feel reluctant to act as a ‘guide’ on. So, consider this just your friend talking to you, and not a mentor… but I honestly don’t know. There’s a very real part of me that thinks… why not? Some people are just… wrong. Miserable, or forever making others miserable. They make the world a worse place being in it… at least, that’s how it feels. So why not just change them? Everyone and everything would be better in a real, measurable way… but…”

Alter Ego closed his eyes, “I say that, entirely, as a vague, theoretical desire… I have the same ability as you, and I’ve never so much as considered actually using it on anyone. And certainly, by that logic, there are plenty of people I could change, and just… haven't. Won’t. My impulses are different from my philosophies… and, honestly, one matters more than the other. I can say we, as empaths, should do this, this or that… but it sounds as hollow as it is, if I’m not actually willing to put the idea into action. And, so far… I’m not.”

“The Templar does… and, honestly, I think that’s one of the most terrifying things about him. Someone with great power, who’s also willing to use it… and if I feel that way about his actions? Than… I don’t know. Maybe I don’t actually believe what I think I believe.”

Alter Ego blinked, considering more… before confessing, “If I wanted to test that belief? And I ended up regretting it? I’ll admit, I think I’d be more willing to make that mistake on torturers and serial killers.”

Wasn’t that just a psychoanalysis and a half. Kokichi could be angry with others. Could be hurt by them, bothered and annoyed and disappointed. But...by far, as he’d discussed with his therapist, the person that provoked the worst, most long-lasting negative feelings...was himself. Kokichi could forgive others, easily, though not arbitrarily. The reasoning, externally, for his forgiveness was sound, and...his feelings really had been resolved. But the person he could never really seem to forgive was not Aiichi, though Kokichi hadn’t forgiven him yet, but...Kokichi himself. 

...he was working on it. But that was the truth, and Kokichi gave his mentor a fond look. A mentor, and a peer, and a friend. 

Kokichi sighed softly, reaching over to gently stroke along Alter Ego’s body. “That’s...all pretty much where my head is. Tom and Itch...really don’t have anything redeemable. Even the bond between them, which might’ve been a point to work from is...they make each other miserable, but they can’t let each other go. It’s really...tragic.”

“So...if I could make someone stop wanting to kill? Or give someone a path to see life as worthwhile? That...really could be something good.” Kokichi sighed again, rubbing his forehead. “...but I don’t know what else that would do to them. And...I genuinely believe people can change without someone shuffling their brain around. And what they could become after a change would be uniquely them...something that wouldn’t exist since...it would be products of my own conceptual limitations. And I can’t...bring myself to do that.”

“...even...if I think the world would’ve been better off without all the things they did.”

“...As I‘ve said. It’s… complicated. We’ve been given the ability to do… terrible things. But people… could honestly benefit from them.” Alter Ego sighed, “I think what’s worse is that our ability is so rare. Regardless of your personal philosophies, anyone can kill. If you really think someone doesn’t deserve to live. That’s a choice you can actually make. Maybe not without consequence, but they can. We all share the burden of that choice… or, my shards did, thinking about it now. I think it’d be tricky for me to kill anyone.” Alter Ego realized, a little surprised at that thought.

“...anyway. My point is, it’s hard on us, because there’s no one else we can hope will make the hard decision for us. We either decide to do it or it doesn’t happen. It’s… a lot of responsibility. At this point? Honestly… and I know this is cruel to say.” Alter Ego said, glancing at Kokichi, “... but I can’t help but wish at least the suicidal one would take the choice out of our hands. He’s literally always alone, how hard could it be at this point? I think he’s not as death craving as he believes he is, if he hasn’t done it by now.”

Anyone could kill--Alter Ego’s unique circumstance notwithstanding. Anyone could choose to just...end an existence. An entire world of thoughts and ideas...gone. By killing someone, you were saying that out of the vast existences in the world...that one didn’t deserve to be. 

Changing the essence of who someone was...was killing them. But in a way that...only a few people would ever know. In a way that...in all probability, few people would ever be on the same page of consideration. People could die at any time, but...the death of a soul--maybe? Kokichi didn’t know how that worked, considering the whole soul-recycling thing--was...strictly in just a few people’s hands. 

Kokichi sighed, flopping over on his side. “I think he truly believes in the death of humanity...but not his own death. As someone who’s had intensely suicidal moments...if you’re that committed, there’s not a lot stopping you. Even less for someone like Itch. He doesn’t truly want to die. He wants utter control over everything, and then for that to bring him happiness. Peace. He’s...a bit of an egoist, that way, I think.”

“...he’s also a teenager. And...that is a big reason why I think they can really change. But it won’t happen if they don’t want to put in the work. I...can just hope the professionals looking after them can break through to them.”

“Sounds like royalty… other royalty. Not you.” Alter Ego clarified, amused. 

“Teenagers…” The cat sighed, laying down on their paws, “I guess, if for no other reason, that could be a reason to restrain ourselves. And I do mean ‘us’. You’re not the only one who could change them. That’s a decision I could make as well… so if we’re wrong not to do it? Well, then we’re wrong together. It’s not just on your shoulders.”

“And… maybe one day I’ll decide we are wrong, not to do it. Maybe one or both will do something again, destroy someone again… and I’ll have to live knowing I could have saved that person and chose not to. And, on that day… maybe I’ll risk that regret. Take on the burden… but, before you start to worry? I really don’t feel like I could, yet. I think they’d have to do something terrible, to push me to that point. I don’t know if I really have the stomach to change people.”

Chibi Kaito stared at the floor, a sad, lost look on his face. Privy to honest conversations Big Kaito would never get to participate in the real world, and… for good reasons. Probably. He felt monstrous, for disagreeing with them both… and he wondered if that was how Kokichi saw him? He was more Big Kokichi than Big Kaito, after all… or maybe Big Kokichi just knew his husband well enough to guess how he’d feel about it. 

Which was why he didn’t talk to big Kaito about these sorts of things to begin with.

...oh well. It wasn’t really his concern to begin with. He was a creature of the mind. A more complex one, but… sometimes he could feel himself playing his role of Kaito too well. And man, was that big guy prone to melancholy. 

But! Chibi Kaito had a job! Official ones and unofficial ones! And he needed to do his unofficial one!

Feeling Kokichi’s doubt and sadness, he went burrowing for a memory. Something that would help…

And pulling himself back up, he stood at the foot of the bed and cheerfully called out └(^o^)┐ ♪

Kokichi huffed softly, though he took the comment with the lightness it was meant with. Other royalty… Maybe one day he’d see others taking that burden of responsibility with the respect it was meant to have. He could hope. Hope was the first step to a better world. 

He gave his mentor a soft look, scratching behind his ears. “...I really hope it will never come to that. I do want them to be better, to have brighter lives… But in watching that horizon and waiting for the color of the sunrise…” Kokichi grinned fondly. “You’re really good at making it so I never feel alone, you know? It’s a honed talent of yours. I might regret saying no to Tom one day...but I feel better, talking about it with you.”

Both in Alter Ego taking on some of that burden, and just...in talking about something difficult with a friend. Decompressing and calming down enough to think about things, even if they don’t have a clear or comforting answer. Relying on others was...what humans were made for. And lo and behold, Kokichi felt better when he actually did. 

While the creature wasn’t exactly an ‘other’, Kokichi did have more help than just Alter Ego. 

Kokichi’s eyebrows raised in surprise as Chibi Kaito made himself known, before he smiled and reached out to greet the small creature. “Hey there! I was wondering where you’d gone off to.”

Chibi Kaito pointed at the floor, beaming up at Big Kokichi, wiggling happily and running directly into Kokichi’s grip, grabbing his wrist and rubbing his face into Kokichi’s arm, more than happy to take the offered affection. 

o(*^▽^*)o 💕

(*･×･*)ゞ

(￣ー￣)ゞ Focus, Kaito! Focus! 

Putting on his ‘serious’ face, Kaito dug into his pockets, looking for the memory he had dug up… before holding out to Kokichi a little sampler piece of food, what looked like some sort of pie, though the filling wasn’t any sort of normal edible, but a strange mish-mash of bright, oddly ‘familiar’ feeling colors.

And upon tolding the memory…

It wasn’t one memory, but several. Chibi Kaito having searched out a feeling, and not a specific event. Flashes and flashes of people taking their opportunities, at the festivals, at parties, on the street, thanking Kokichi. For his hard work. For his wisdom. For his choices making their lives better in real, measurable ways. Memory after memory after memory after memory…

His Kokichi shouldn’t be filled with so much doubt.

He so often makes the right decision.

Kokichi giggled softly, gently rubbing Chibi Kaito’s back as he nuzzled him, taking the downward point to mean deeper in his consciousness rather than literally down. But...well. Chibi Kaito was a part of him. While he didn’t always ‘absorb’ information, anything Kokichi knew, Chibi Kaito knew, so...Kokichi wasn’t really worried about keeping all this from the creature. As far as he was concerned, Chibi Kaito already knew. 

Which was why he was only mildly surprised to see that Chibi Kaito had made himself known with a purpose, taking the pie with a curious look. 

And then blinking a few times, a softer smile on his face as amethyst orbs grew a little wet. 

Kokichi never thought he deserved the profuse gratitude people showed him in public. But...with every piece of work he did, responding to letters, considering requests, figuring out bits of information they’d need for the future...he always did it with the intent of...doing right by his people, if not trying to make the country a little better. And...the thanks were people recognizing that. And...being happy that he was trying to look out for them. Not just trying, but...succeeding. Actually making things better. 

Letting out a breathy little laugh, Kokichi wiped his eyes and brought Chibi Kaito a little closer, placing a kiss on his head. “Thanks, hun. I think I needed that tonight.”

( ˘͈ ᵕ ˘͈♡)˚๐*˟ ♡

Yesssss… Chibi Kaito wiiiiins…

Kiss?

As the Chibi creature tried to work out if he was going to get kisses out of this, standing onto the balls of his feet and trying to reach Kokich’s face, Alter Ego watched this all with some fond amusement… before his ear twitched.

“What did you mean,” Alter Ego said, “That Tom ‘showed up’?”