“Oh, we’ve just been back from looking at the pumpkins,” Shirogane said, sighing a little, gazing slightly to the side as her blue hair showered lazily over her shoulders. “They’re always very impressive. Sometimes I find myself wishing I had that sort of skill, since people get such a thrill out of them. I just plain find myself envious, really.”

“Mommy! You’re a really good sew’er! You made my dress! That’s like a pumpkin!” Kimiko tried to appease her, as Cali and Tim rubbed Chase’s belly, Tim using the opportunity to admire Chase’s paint job, all of her claws different shades of random colors. 

Shirogane smiled warmly at her. “Is it? I suppose so. Thank you, darling.”

Looking up, she turned to the adults, “We were planning to do the maze next, actually. If you are all comfortable with it, I’d be happy to watch over Timothy through it.”

Maki looked the woman up and down. There was nothing inherently dangerous about a Danganronpa Ambassador, especially not the quiet and polite woman in front of her, but… “Timothy. Here.”

“On my way,” Timothy said, immediately moving to his mother, looking up at her expectantly as she began to speak quietly to him. Tim nodded a few times, said to her, “In my waistband.” Listened some more, and said, “Yes, mom.”

Appeased, Maki said louder, for anyone to hear them, “And be respectful. I’d expect Miss Shirogane here to tell me if you cause her any problems, you understand?”

Timothy nodded again. “Yes, Mom.”

“Good. Go,” Maki said, Tim immediately running back to Cali and Kimiko, who looked excited, both grabbing an arm and pulling him forward as Maki said to Shirogane, “Please really do let me know if he’s disrespectful. Thank you for looking after him, we’ll pick him up again at the end of the maze.”

Shirogane nodded, laughing lightly, “Timothy’s always a delight, I’m not worried about him misbehaving. But thank you though.”

“He have the knife you gave him?” Kaito whispered to Maki, who nodded. Calling out to Tim, he called, “Love you buddy, be safe, make good choices, be nice to your friends!! Do you wanna give me a hug before you go!?”

Tim twitched at Kaito. “No?”

“Give me a hug before you go!”

“Noooo!” 

As Tim wrestled with Kaito, Shuuichi had walked off and now came back with two timers, passing one to Shirogane, and bringing the other one to Kokichi.

Ah, good. Kokichi had figured that Kimiko and Cali would bring their parents to see the jack-o’-lantern they’d made, but he was glad to hear it! 

“You made Kimiko’s dress?” Kokichi asked, taking another look at the young girl’s costume. He’d figured that they’d doctored up a dress Kimiko had already had. With an impressed hum, Kokichi grinned up at the ambassador. “I see that creativity is a family thing, then.”

Kokichi watched with some amount of pride as Maki debriefed Tim, just...being safe in their own ways, but still giving Tim the freedom and trust to go off with his friends, and to trust Tsumugi too. And with the playful affection Kaito gave him too… They really were Tim’s parents, no doubt. 

There wasn’t a damn person who could say that none of them had grown in the past few months. 

Hearing Maki promise to meet them at the end of the maze, though… It was alright. Kokichi agreed that it was more important for the kids to have this sort of experience, and...he’d gone this long without it. It was fine. 

However, that didn’t keep Kokichi from hopping excitedly in place when Shuuichi held out a timer for him. Looking between his friends, Kokichi’s gaze settled on Shuuichi. “Did you wanna go through the maze together, or wait at the end with Maki-chan and Kai-chan? I can totally smash that record on my own, if, yanno, I don’t stop every few feet to look at the plants,” he laughed. 

“Huh? Hey, wait, why don’t I get to go?” Kaito asked, looking confused at Kokichi, while Maki watched Shirogane and the kids go ahead.

“Kokichi probably just doesn’t love you as much as he loves me,” Shuuichi said idly, taking Kokichi back into his arms, hugging him lightly. “It’s okay, Kaito. Maybe one day you can get Kokichi to like you a little too.”

“What!? Hey, come on!”

Kokichi scoffed into a snort, though he did nestle into Shuuichi’s arms a little, enjoying the hug. He thought about continuing the joke, making some comment that they’d probably get a record for being in the maze the longest, since he could just see Kaito going, ‘oh, babe! This flower looks just like your hair, get close for comparison!’, or, hey, didn’t he say the right company made a maze better?

But…

Sometimes teasing was easy. Kokichi could let his mouth run without a thought. But other times...his mind just shot down path after path, worried that a joke might hit too true to something and…

So, Kokichi just gave Kaito a soft look. “I thought you’d wanna wait for Tim, but Kai-chan is more than welcome to be part of our supreme navigation crew. Shuu-chan might even feel generous enough to let you hold my hand!”

“Whaaaaat? I gotta get permission to hold your hand? Come oooon.” Kaito groaned, glancing over at Shuuichi’s amused, smirking face...before huffing. 

Going over to Kokichi, he leaned over, wrapped his arms around Kokichi’s waist, one under his ass, and picked him up, whisking him away from Shuuichi’s grip, before smirking down at the ex-detective. “Mine.”

Shuuichi’s brow furrowed. “Hey, Kaito-” before looking startled as Kaito reached out with his right hand, now having secured Kokichi, and grasped Shuuichi’s wrist.

“Also mine. Alright! Now that I have my lovers, Maki? Are you not coming with us?” Kaito asked, looking at her with some confusion.

Maki raised an eyebrow at the display, before saying, “I’ll be around, but considering the point of a maze is to confuse people, I thought it might be safer for me to keep a birds-eye on everyone.” Maki gestured to the trees. “You won’t be on your own, I just want to keep an eye out.”

Kaito nodded. “Alright then. Call out if you need me, okay? Maze or no maze, I’ll find you.”

Maki smiled slightly at that. “Sure. Alright, you three have fun.”

Shuuichi was a little disappointed he and Maki weren’t doing the maze together, but, well… Maybe next year Maki would feel a little more secure about things, and she wouldn’t be, ya know… ‘on the job’. Looking at his wrist, Shuuichi said, “Kaito? Are you going to let us go?”

“Mmmmmm not yet. Haven’t had my fill yet. Where’s the entrance?” Kaito asked, looking around.

Kokichi squeaked as he was whisked into the air, but unlike time’s past, Kaito wasn’t injured and wasn’t carrying precarious things. Just...wearing high heels. But Kaito had seemed steady enough, so Kokichi let himself squirm a bit in Kaito’s arms, settling himself more comfortably since he figured Kaito wouldn’t be letting him down until he’d had his fill of teasing. 

Glancing up at the trees as Maki pointed to them… Maybe next year. Or, hell, maybe even later that day, or even in the week. Wasn’t like the garden was going anywhere.

Giving Maki a wave, Kokichi rolled his eyes. “Maybe the open path with the barriers on either side with the huge pumpkin lanterns?” Then, feeling like that was a little too much, he carefully nuzzled at Kaito’s shoulder. “You know I like bein’ in your arms, but I wanna do this maze too, not just be carried through it. Believe me, Kai-chan’ll be the first person I whine to when I start getting tired later.”

“Mmmmmmmmm-alright, fine,” Kaito said, deliberating the merits of his arms being ‘Kichi’less for a while, and deciding, “But I get a kiss first. Deal?”

“With my illness-ridden mouth? What’s next, you wanna share a bed with me?” Kokichi laughed softly before looking around, seeing that they were more than far from other people, and lowered his mask, kissing Kaito right where his ended on his cheekbone. “Did I pay the toll?”

“Yes! Score!” Kaito cheered, before placing Kokichi down, beaming down at him. Then, looking over to Shuuichi, he sneered, and instead of asking, pulled Shuuichi closer to himself, Shuuichi blinking in confusion as Kaito spun him a little, catching him with his other arm, and dipping him slightly. 

“K-Kaito!” Shuuichi gasped, the detective’s eyes darting around, feeling exposed, as Kaito leaned in like he was going to kiss him...before chuckling, bringing him back up and spinning him again.

“What? I just wanted to dance with you a little. Don’t worry, handsome,” Kaito said, flicking his wrist and pulling Shuuichi into his side again, Shuuichi’s footing compelled to follow the movement. Arm around his waist, leaning into his ear, Kaito whispered, “I’ll only ravish you in private. Promise.” 

Shuuichi flushed, and after a moment pulled away from Kaito more forcefully, Kaito obligingly letting him go, watching with a grin as Shuuichi tried to shake off his fluster, marching forward as he said, “Come on. Honestly, Kaito...you’re so extra sometimes.”

Kaito watched him go ahead, before giving Kokichi a wink. “He loves it. Let’s go beautiful, before he gets too far ahead of us.”

Kokichi watched fondly as Kaito lavished attention on Shuuichi, trusting Shuuichi to seriously tell Kaito to back off if he didn’t want it, and knowing that there weren’t too many people around to make Shuuichi’s discomfort more about publicity than what Kaito was actually doing. And, as Kaito said… Shuuichi did love it, to a point. Liked his boyfriends’ attentions and liked feeling wanted. 

So, giggling quietly, Kokichi took Kaito’s hand and hurried after Shuuichi, starting their timer. 

“Man...watching you two like that… Reminds me of how much fun it is dancing with you, sweets,” Kokichi hummed, squeezing Kaito’s hand as they walked along the path, thankfully catching up with Shuuichi before they were presented with the first split. “M even doubly impressed that you can do that in heels too.”

“‘pparently, yeeeeears ago, ballroom dance competitions required the following partner to wear heels as part of the...like, competition uniform, I guess? There was some saying, for following partners who didn’t get as much acclaim as their leads, that they did everything the lead did, backwards, and in heels. For some reason, that phrase always stuck with me.” Kokichi rambled a bit, reaching out for Shuuichi’s hand too as he looked around the garden, evidently leaning more on the side of sightseeing than trying to break any speed records. 

“Yeah, the heels aren’t tripping me up too much yet, but I think that’s just because I have strong ankles. I could see how they’d absolutely wreck someone, though. And if I misstepped or fell in these? Damn, I think it’d hurt. Still, as for dancing…” Kaito looked curiously down at the heels, before glancing around a little, not wanting anyone to see him face-plant if this went wrong.

Feeling adequately alone, in that the only people around weren’t looking in their direction, Kaito stepped ahead of them a bit and, carefully, started doing the movement for a waltz, mindlessly counting the steps in his head, since he didn’t have a beat to follow here, his arms holding a phantom partner for a moment. Turning himself, he then frowned, and, still counting the steps in his head, tried doing it backwards… and that movement was obviously a little sloppier, as he said as he moved, “It’s kinda easier to do it when you have a partner guiding the movement, going backwards. A really good dance partner, like, one who really knows what they’re doing? Can almost dance you for you, moving you this way and that way…”

Kaito quieted for a moment, old memories whispering at him for a moment. Togami and him, hiding up in Byakuya’s room, the two laughing as the larger man spun Kaito until he was dizzy. Bailsong, who had been able to keep up with his every most complicated step, who used to smirk at him, daring him to really challenge her. Monique, who couldn’t dance to save her life, but used to love to lean against him, resting her head on his chest as they swayed…

Man. Kaito was really struggling to keep himself out of his memories today. 

(...he might be feeling a little homesick...)

Kaito looked back at his boys, grinning, shaking the ghosts from his mind. “But! We’re going dancing soon, remember? I know I said it a bit ago now, but I still fully intend to take you dancing, babe! And Shuuichi...I know you’ll enjoy having the room to yourself for a night!”

Shuuichi smiled slightly. “Thanks, Kaito. Yeah, not much for dancing, myself…”

Kokichi looked on, at first in surprise, but then awe as Kaito danced, and even as he tried doing the following steps… Waltzes had been one of the few dances Kokichi had been allowed to try, growing up--officially, anyway. He...wasn’t quite feeling bold enough to go up and dance with Kaito, because even knowing this one, he could tell that Kaito was just...amazing. 

“I’m looking forward to it,” he grinned up at his husband. Despite what the rest of the night and the resulting time ended up being...the memories Kokichi had of dancing with Kaito at their wedding, getting to experience what Kaito had just talked about, having a partner that knew what they were doing so, even being a horrible dancer, Kokichi still felt like he was flying…

(Though, of course… Hearing how much it hurt Shuuichi and Maki to hear that they’d been enjoying the wedding reception while they’d needed Kaito...put a big damper on that fond memory…)

Hugging Shuuichi’s arm, Kokichi hummed brightly. “We’ll bring you plenty of cool stories back, promise!”

The three walked around for a bit, looking around at the plants, Kaito excitedly talking about how he was looking forward to their cacti showing up among them at some point. Shuuichi didn’t have much of an interest in floral life himself, but listened attentively whenever Kokichi pointed out something new or interesting to him, and Kaito usually accompanied that with some tangent or another that vaguely related to whatever Kokichi brought up.

And, yes. At one point, Kaito glanced at some flowers growing high next to a bush, and said ecstatically, “Hey! Kokichi! I found your hair!”

Kokichi snorted, mentally high-fiving himself. “Maybe Denji-chan was taking a walk over here and got inspiration. Or maybe it’s just ‘cause my hair’s a little longer right now.” With Denji brushing his hair for the festival, he likely wouldn’t need to cut it any time soon, and it was nice to have a little longer style in the winter, covering for whatever gap his hat and scarf left, but...maybe he’d cut it just for fun soon. Make Kaito bitch and moan about him cutting it unevenly. 

On that point though… “Mm… You said you were thinking about getting a haircut soon, right? Think you’re gonna ask Denji-chan, or go someplace in town?” he asked Kaito, resisting the urge to tug at the “petals'' of his hair and mess up the style. Usually all he accomplished when he tried to mess up Denji’s work was creating more knots that just made getting all the pins out later a huge pain. 

On the path they were following, Kokichi knew they were close to one of the edges of the garden, and it didn’t look like the path markers were veering away so...maybe they were coming to the end of the maze? 

“Mmm, I was thinking of letting you cut it, babe,” Kaito said idly, looking around, looking at some of the branching paths as he said, “Are we lost?”

“Are you?” Shuuichi asked, “Because I have a perfect memory and Kokichi knows this garden, it's rumored, like the back of his hand. So really, it’s only you can that can get lost right now.”

“...your memory isn’t perfect.” Kaito pouted, looking a little lost.

Kokichi’s eyes bugged.

“What?!”

Swallowing a bit of spittle wrong during his outburst, Kokichi turned away to cough into his arm for a moment before looking back up at Kaito like he’d just said he was swearing off meat. Completely not paying attention to the other conversation. 

Looking a little worried now, Kokichi’s eyebrows drew in. “You...do know I’ve only cut my own hair, right? And what that looks like? I-I’ve never… You know, cut hair that looks...good?”

Kaito looked down at Kokichi, before smiling, reaching out to run a thumb along his cheekbone a little, before saying, “So? I thought you’d have fun doing it. No?”

Kokichi continued to just stare up at Kaito for a moment, their progress stalled for the time being. Kaito was...a little vain. Not in excess, and not that it caused problems for other people, but...he cared about how he looked. Liked looking good and liked people knowing it. For him to offer to let Kokichi cut his hair or...really, ask him to do it?

...he was probably going to have someone fix whatever Kokichi did afterward, but that would still be a good bit shorter than likely what he’d originally want. 

His cheeks going rosy, Kokichi looked away, laughing bashfully as he started forward again. “...you’re giving me a dangerous amount of power, you know?”

“Also, I’m pretty sure we’re almost at the end, if the path doesn’t suddenly turn inward.”

“We can call it even for me making you brush your hair from now on.” Kaito joked, though really he had been planning to ask Kokichi to cut his hair for awhile now. 

Ever since his hair turned green under that random dye thing, Kaito realized that his hope that taking away his red hair would make him less recognizable was...kinda laughable. No one was going to mistake him for anyone else, not if they knew, or had an idea of who he was originally. 

And, like...that was okay. His self-hatred came in waves, and right now the tide was out, and he didn’t mind so much that he was Kaito Momota. And because he didn’t mind, it didn’t bother him as much, knowing that there were...lots of people who did mind. 

So, ya know...that felt okay. 

But, still, he had thought Kokichi would be delighted at the opportunity to come at Kaito with scissors, and while Kokichi had seemed more stunned than anything, Kaito was still willing to follow through on that thought, if only because it might be a fun bonding moment between them. Besides…

“If you totally destroy my hair, babe, then all that’s going to happen is we’re about to give Denji a hell of a challenge. So don’t worry, I think it’ll be fun to see what you’d do with it.” 

And laughing at the ‘power’ comment, Kaito winked at him, saying, “Maybe. But I know my sweet husband won’t take advantage. Besides, you gotta sleep next to me every night, so I guess we’ll find out together if you just like me for my looks, huh?” Kaito snickered.

“We got through the maze pretty quick, if that really is the end of it….” Shuuichi looked around, eyes upward. “Maki?” he called out. “Is that the end that way?”

There was a moment of silence, and then a small whsssk sound as Shuuichi and Kaito looked surprised to see a dagger shoot down, lodging itself into the dirt right in front of Shuuichi’s feet. Leaning down to pick it up, there was a small piece of parchment curled around it. Opening it up, he read aloud. 

“Yep.”

“Aw man…” Kokichi griped, wrinkling his nose. Really, he wasn’t totally sure how Kaito hadn’t noticed, as he wasn’t sneaky about it or anything, but getting that confirmation from Denji, his two fashion-minded peers ganging up on him… It wasn’t faiiiiiiir! He hated brushing his hair! And cutting out bad knots wasn’t a big deal, no matter what Kaito said!

But...he wasn’t gonna be a total brat about it. And...maybe he’d get better tips on brushing their kid’s hair. 

Sighing, Kokichi crashed against Kaito’s side lightly, not enough to jostle him even in heels. “I’ll make sure to get you a really warm hat if Denji-chan ends up having to give you a buzz cut or something.”

While the dagger shot down into the dirt, Kokichi looked up into the trees, wondering if he’d manage to get a glimpse of Maki. There...was a flash of red that might’ve been her, but also might’ve been just a red leaf fluttering in the light wind. He wasn’t really sure why she decided against calling out, but just shrugged and accepted it. 

“Huh, guess we got lucky. Maybe a little unfair since I know where we are relatively in the garden, but still.” Humming, Kokichi hugged Kaito’s arm. “Think Tim and the girls have made it out?”

“I don’t know. Let’s see... Maki? Did Tim-oh.” Shuuichi was interrupted from his call when, from another direction, another knife shot itself into the dirt. Going to pick it up, the ex-detective read aloud. “Nope.”

Kaito chuckled. “You think if we ask her four more questions, she’ll just give us all her throwing daggers?”

“I think she might be a little restless.” Shuuichi said quietly, pocketing the dagger. “It’s tough, doing something your whole life and then suddenly no one wanting you to do it anymore.”

“Yeah, I guess that’s true. Though, you know how Maki is...I mean, if she wants something, I’m sure she’s getting it herself. If she really gets bored, she’ll find some way to entertain herself.” Kaito observed, the three coming to the end of the path, a small sign saying ‘Congratulations! You escaped the Maze!’

“She hasn’t been letting out her aggression on us, anyway. I can’t even remember the last time she cut you or Tim.” Shuuichi mused.

“It’s been a minute, I guess, yeah.” Kaito agreed.

“...I wonder…” Shuuichi was going to wonder if she had been getting that violence out on someone else, then, but well...maybe that wasn’t a kind thing to assume. Maybe Maki had just gone cold turkey. It was possible. 

Somewhere else, Itch twitched as he felt another phantom pain from where his dick used to be.

Kokichi hummed lowly, not really chiming into the conversation. He could empathize in a way, sure. If one day he just...wasn’t the heir anymore? Like he’d feared ever since he understood what it meant? Kokichi knew he’d be applying for a clerical job in the castle immediately. He had no idea what else he’d do with his life. 

Just because Maki’s job had been about violence and murder didn’t make that feeling go away. 

But...because he was himself, wrapping his head around wanting to...hurt anyone? Ever? It was a struggle to get even a step of understanding, anything beyond just accepting that, yeah, it was something some people wanted sometimes. 

He hoped that Maki would speak up if she needed any help adjusting--she already had, in asking to shadow Lake--and...he just had to trust in her to figure out the rest. Hopefully Maki would be able to find comfort in peace one day. (Unlikely until the intentured program was in the dust.)

Kokichi waved to the gardener stationed at the exit, the candy bowl catching his eye but turning his stomach. Still, he skipped over to return the timer, making light small talk before returning to his friends, waiting for Tim and his friends (and Tsumugi) to make it to the end.

The three adults killed time for a bit, Maki still up in the trees cause she wanted to be able to keep an eye out for Tim’s group as well, before after a moment she hopped down from a tree nearby, heading over to them. 

“They close?” Shuuichi asked, passing her the two throwing daggers she had sent. 

“Give it about….” she was quiet for a moment, and in the distance, there was a chorus of screaming children, steadily getting closer, “five seconds...four…”

Three seconds later, each of them screaming their heads off, Cali, Tim and Kimio, Chase barking excitedly at their heels, ran out of the maze, Cali hands in the air, Kimiko gasping and struggling to keep up, Tim just behind her, all going, “AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!”

“Woah, WOAH! What’s going on! Hey!” Kaito shouted, bolting forward and grabbing Tim, yanking him off his feet as Cali and Kimiko kept screaming, running in circles around them as Kaito shouted to Tim, “Timothy, what!? What happened!?”

“Huh?” Tim asked, giving his father a confused look. “What do you mean?”

Kaito gaped at him, looking at the girls, who were still running and screaming, and then carefully putting Tim down, who straightened his shirt a little, before going, “AAAAAAAAAAHHHH!” and running after them again.

After a moment, a mildly exasperated Shirogane stepped out of the maze as well, explaining to the others baffled looks, “They just...decided it’d be fun to run and scream, after getting bored halfway through…”

Kokichi startled at the screams, for a single split second the fake blood on Kimiko’s dress making him really worry if one of them was hurt but… Kokichi shook his head with a snort, a relieved grin on his face. Kids will be kids. 

There were limits to that, of course, but yelling and running around wasn’t hurting anyone, other than scaring the pants of him for a moment. 

“Well, I’m glad they made their own fun if the maze wasn’t doing it?” Kokichi laughed a little more before turning to talk to the kids. “Did you guys get your candy? I took a look, and they have quite the stock of those sour gummi candies.”

Kokichi ran through the other events in his head, plenty of the candy collection ones left, haunted house included, and...well, he wasn’t, but if anyone was starting to get hungry for lunch, food did not have to be sorted out. He looked around their group, trying to gauge the mood for what to suggest next.

The kids weren’t ignoring Kokichi, they just couldn’t hear him over their own yelling. Shirogane tried next, calling out to them, “Kids? Let’s quiet down now, I know...oh dear, they’re very excited…”

Maki thought about calling out as well, but could recognize that her shouting might not get through the cacophony of noise either, so… “Kaito.”

“Yeah?”

“Make them stop.”

‘Got it!!” Kaito shouted, a fierce look suddenly  on his face as he shouted, “Come here, ya runts!!” 

The kids noticed in one of their circlings Kaito running at them, and realizing he was trying to grab him, excitedly started screaming even louder and giggling, leaping from his arms as Kaito lunged at them. Still, though the three kids were quick as fuck, Kaito took advantage of their weak link, Kimiko, grabbing her first and shouting out, “Ha! I got one of ya! If ya’ll don’t settle down we’re just taking her and running!”

“No! Kimiko! Save her!” Cali shouted, changing her trajectory and running back.

“Cali, no! He’s using her as bait, he’s, aw, damn.” Tim cursed as Kaito swooped up Cali with his other arm, throwing her over his shoulder as Kimiki was kept tucked under her arm, holding up his arms in surrender as Kaito came for him next, shouting, “Fine, fine! What were you saying?”

“You guys need to pick your candy so we can go do the next thing.” Kaito repeated.

“Candy!” Cali shouted excitedly, kicking into the air.

“Oh, I wanna pick some candy!” Kimiko said cheerfully, wiggling as well, until finally Kaiot finally put them both down, the three kids running towards the candy bowl, waiting patiently as the attendant let them pick one by one. Kaito looked back at Maki, who gave him a thumbs up.

“Good, that’s done. If they feel like screaming so much, maybe we should go to the haunted house you keep mentioning, Kokichi?” Maki asked, looking over to the prince.

...something twitched in Shuuichi’s expression. A mixture of tension and confusion. He smothered it as soon as he could.

Kokichi watched fondly as Kaito wrangled the kids, and when Maki suggested the haunted house...he tried not to worriedly look over at Shuuichi. Instead, he just grinned with a nod. “That sounds great! I was tellin’ Kai-chan before, but after the entry attendant gives us the rundown, I wanna ask about having an outline about what’s in each room? At least for me, if there’s gonna be, like, a bug room or something, I’d like a heads up so I can close my eyes,” he laughed sheepishly.

If he made it about himself, then Kaito could get whatever accommodations he needed without hurting his pride. Then...they could have as many chances as possible for Shuuichi to think over if he’d be okay and...maybe for Kokichi to get an idea of where Nao might be in the set. She was always in the scariest part… Maybe if...he could talk loudly before they got to it, or something, she could...hide herself more? Make herself seem more just like any old actor and…

...Shuuichi was too smart for that. 

But he’d figure something out. 

Looking around the group, Kokichi kept his tone light, trying to give anyone another out. “Is there anyone who wants to sit this one out? Or has other stuff they wanna ask about? I know they always ask if anyone in the group has issues with flashing lights or stuff like that, but it’s good to know what to ask about ahead of time.”

…

… he … he should just not go. 

Right?

He should not go. 

He should not go.

… right?

…

(He felt a sudden ache. An awful longing. Would she even want to see him? Did he want to see her? No. Yes? Why!?)

He shouldn’t go.

He shouldn’t want to go. 

She couldn’t offer him anything. She wouldn’t offer him anything. She didn’t even like him...she had hurt him...it had all hurt…

She might laugh at him.

Shuuichi didn’t say anything. He couldn’t bring himself to make a decision on what he knew was an extremely real possibility that Nao would be there. He didn’t know how he felt about it, and he was too scared to say he wanted to go, and...well, too scared to miss this opportunity. Either felt like a possible failure. A possible missed opportunity. He didn’t know what he wanted…

Kaito, who knew about none of this, if he had ever been told Nao worked in the haunted house, it having long slipped his mind, said, “W-well! If the haunted house is next, I mean...probably better for everyone we do it while it’s bright and sunny and cheerful out, right? I-I mean before we do the night version too...I guess.” he said, grin twitching in concern.

...Kokichi wasn’t sure if he was disappointed or not that Shuuichi hadn’t spoken up. Part of him felt like...finding something in the outline that he’d say was too much for him, and he’d sit out and...ask Shuuichi for company while the kids went through? Just so he wouldn’t have to contend with...whatever might happen. 

But part of Kokichi ached at that idea. He really did want to see the house. If he had been the only one, then...yeah, he could pass it up. Go another time when Kaito and Shuuichi were off doing their own thing. But it was a Harvest tradition for a lot of people, and a stop on the candy route. He’d overheard countless conversations over the years, of kids excited to go on the tour for the first time, wanting to prove they were super brave and not afraid of anything! And Kokichi had a hunch that Tim, Cali, and Kimiko wouldn’t be total outliers to that sentiment. 

If they were going to go either way...he wanted to experience it. 

Still, Kokichi sighed, rubbing Kaito’s arm gently. “Kai-chan, I told you, we don’t have to do the night version. I’m excited enough to see the day one. Plus, I have a feeling I just might not have the energy to stay out late tonight,” he downplayed regardless, “though...I do wanna try at least to see the end of the carving competition, and get to see all the pumpkins lit up.”

Shuuichi looked down at his fingers, quietly following everyone as they all began to move, the kids laughing and running ahead, running back, running ahead again, Maki and Shirogane making what technically qualified as small talk (“The weathers nice.” “Hm.”), Kaito insisting that they could totally do the night one if Kokichi was up to it and Kokichi gently reassuring Kaito that no, no, they wouldn’t do the night one, it’s fine, Kaito, sure you could handle it, hun, that’s not what I’m saying…

...a night one...a night tour…

Before Shuuichi allowed himself to think about it anymore, he suddenly said, “I might wait outside for you all to do the haunted house.”

Kaito looked back in Shuuichi in surprise, giving him a small smile as he said, “Aw, bud, are you nervous? You always handle stuff like this pretty well, though! I’m certain you can handle it!”

Shuuichi shrugged, shaking his head slightly as he said, “Maybe, but I’m feeling a little sore on my feet, and I can use the opportunity to sit down a bit and relax while you guys wander through the house. So it’d kind of work out for me.”

“Is it actually a house?” Tim asked, sounding curious as the kids slowed down to let the adults catch up, “Like, the kind of house we stayed in at the beach?”

“Um...that’s a good question. Is it?” Kaito asked, looking curiously at Kokichi.

Again, Kokichi wasn’t sure if he was proud...but he kind of was. Giving his boyfriend a kind smile, Kokichi nodded. “Oki doke. If it gets to be too much for me, I’ll come find you then, and we can all regroup at where Shuu-chan’s choosin’ to sit.” 

He wasn’t expecting he’d have to be escorted out, but...well, he’d never been before. Who knew? And while he doubted Kaito would take it...maybe it’d make him feel better, knowing he could tap out at any time.

Kokichi started to nod before he shrugged a bit. “It is a house, but not like the one we stayed at.”

“It’s this oooold, old mansion that’s...pretty much been in Usot since it started to become a city? It’s been maintained, though, so there’s no worry about things breaking apart,” he assured, giving Maki a nod. “And the second floor is blocked off to the general public anyway. Normally, it’s staged for historical lectures, but during fall it’s fitted to be a haunted house--the people who run the tour starting to build sets and props months in advance. It’s kind of our pride and joy attraction in fall. Big draw for people to come to Usot for Harvest.”

“Well, that’s pretty cool!” Kaito said sincerely, not a fan of horror stuff, but still someone who admired dedication and hard work in all of its forms.

“If it’s that popular, should we be expecting a line? We might want to get drinks for everyone.” Maki observed, ever the practical one.

It was Shirogane who stepped in this time, though, saying, “I wouldn’t worry about that. I’m not sure how they pull it off, but I go to the haunted house every year, and I’ve never been asked to wait for more than ten minutes. They’ve worked out some sort of system, I suppose.” 

Tim looked back at the adults, who were trading trivia and questions about the haunted house, and while he was pretty interested in exploring it himself, many of the kids in class having been talking it up for the last few days, at least, he noted Uncle Shuuichi had gone quiet, his face carefully blank and neutral…

Tim didn’t say anything to the girls. He just slowed down and started to linger back and they took his cue, and after a moment the kids were all around Shuuichi, chatting idly and bickering about what they thought was scary or not, but idly keeping an eye on as they walked, in their own way. Shuuichi found himself taken out of his head as he listened in on them, smiling a little as the kids got into a heated argument if werewolves were scary, or just ‘Big Dogs’.

It was a little more of a walk than the other attractions had been from the center of the city, but it still wasn’t too long before Kokichi pointed out the large building coming up, the architecture something almost complete unlike the rest of the city, though, there was one building that shared a few similarities. Unlike the mansion, the castle had gone through many renovations and repairs in its time, but it still had glimpses of its original frame. 

And, naturally, the whole building was decked out in Harvest decorations. 

There was what looked to be an information table in front of the deck patio that led to the front door, and it looked like there was one other group there, getting the rundown of how the tour worked, while another had just seemed to be exiting from a backdoor, laughing and teasing each other, and every now and then you could hear faint yelps coming from inside. 

While it was a little more out of the way than most of the festival events, people had set up a little sitting area outside the house, and Kokichi was assured that Shuuichi would be comfortable there while they went through. 

As they approached, Kokichi squeezed Kaito’s hand, stroking his thumb down the side of it too. “Hey...thanks for doing this. Promise you’ll hold me close if I get scared?”

Kaito looked at the looming mansion warily, the sunny, crisp atmosphere not nearly as reassuring as he had hoped, taking some comfort in Kokichi’s gentle stroke as he said, way too loudly, “Of course! Don’t worry babe, nothings going to get you in here! U-um…” he looked down at the kids, feeling foolish as he asked, “But we are looking at the outline first? Or, I mean, you are? Don’t want to, ya know...don’t want to trigger any phobias! Gotta look out for my husband.” 

That last bit was to himself, but it was Kimiko who looked up, looking horribly disappointed as she said, “What? But Mister Kaito, that will ruin all the fun for Mister Kokichi!”

“Not everyone has fun the same way, baby.” Shirogane explained gently to her child, putting an affectionate hand through her hair. “I know you just love to be frightened, but not everyone gets the same sort of thrill.”

“Also-” Timothy whispered to Kimiko, “My dad almost set a forest on fire once because Uncle Kokichi pretended to be a ghost.”

“Oooooooh.” Kimiko said, nodding, before saying, “It’s gonna be okay, Mister Kaito! The ghosts won’t hurt you! Ghosts are cute!”

“...” Kaito couldn’t tell a small child verbally ‘what the fuck?’, but he did stare at her like that.

Kokichi smiled gently at the girl, her mom and friend giving good reasons, but he couldn’t resist adding his own. “I like being frightened too, but there are good kinds of scared and bad kinds of scared for me. I’m gonna look at the outline to give myself any accommodations I might need for the bad stuff, and even if it ruins the surprise a little, I still think it can be scary even knowing what’s coming. It’s more about the experience!”

Which was the part Kaito wouldn’t be having much fun for but...he agreed to it, so Kokichi would just appreciate him for doing something uncomfortable just to be with his kid and husband. 

Though, Kokichi did give Kimiko an amused look. Ghosts weren’t real, and Kokichi didn’t particularly find the concept of them frightening, but...cute wasn’t really a word that came to mind. He wondered where that came from. 

Giving a nod, Kokichi looked back up at Kaito. “Kimiko’s right--nothing in the house will hurt you, and none of it is even designed to be mean. Like...I think there might be jump-scares, but even that’s debatable. It’s a bunch of people putting on a play around you, if it helps to think about it like that.”

“We’re trying to put on a good show!” By that time, they’d made it to the information desk, the person running it, wearing a chef’s outfit, chiming into the end of the conversation they caught. Looking around the group--more adults than kids--they gave a big grin. “Happy Harvest, and welcome to House of Horror! While I see a few familiar faces,” they winked at Kokichi, “have any of you been on the tour before?” 

“I have, I have!” Cali shouted, raising her hand and jumping up and down.

“Myself and Kimiko here have as well.” Shirogane said, smiling gently.

“Oh! He hasn’t, but Tim’s with us! You’re going through with us, right!?” Cali insisted, latching onto Tim’s arm, who raised an eyebrow at her.

“Aren’t we all going together?” Tim asked. 

“They sometimes like to make larger groups smaller, for atmosphere and safety reasons.” Shrigane explained, looking over at the attendant. “Though, that’s ultimately up to how it’s designed this year, isn’t it?”

“We’re new as well,” Kokichi gestured to his husband, wanting to be clear, “And I’d like to look at the outline?” 

“On the money,” the attendant nodded to Shirogane while they handed over a protected clipboard with the tour outline on it, all common phobias and triggering content clearly labeled in each part. “And your group happens to be a good size for going together. However, if anyone needs accommodations, we can figure out the best way so everyone gets the experience they want.”

Kokichi read through the list, it all sounding good (fake blood he could deal with when he was prepared for it, and he knew that they weren’t going to try and replicate the smell) until… the “garden” room, which would feature many small spider props, as well as a large spider puppet. Back at the play, Kokichi had hoped he’d be fine with those props but...it was different, if you were in the dark and...among it. 

Sighing, he lifted the list and pointed the section out to Kaito. “I...don’t think I can do this part. Think you can guide me through?”

Catching the conversation, the chef hummed. “If you’re up for that, sir, but we can also have a member of the crew guide you through that section, if you’d like to experience it without hesitation yourself.”

“Huh? Oh, no, that’s alright.” Kaito said, giving the woman a slightly confused look. “I don’t mind.”

That was specifically why Kaito was there, and Kokichi, his husband and her prince, had just asked him to do it. Like...of course he would?

“They really just don’t see the difference, do they?” The Queen scoffed quietly in his ear.

“Mom,” Kaito thought with some frustration, “Not now. I don’t have time to go crazy or whatever this is.”

Out loud, he said, “Alright! Let me...let me take a look real quick! Just so I can know when the garden’s coming up!” Kaito said, asking for the outline from Kokichi.

Looking over it, Kaito frowned. He supposed it...helped? To know what was coming. But, well...it was also kinda foreboding. What the hell was the ‘Mushroom’ room!?

“Can we gooooo, soon? What are we waiting for?” Cali asked, her whole body slumping forward in an exaggerated fashion, wishing Chase was nearby so she could pet the sweet puppy she had babysat last night, though the good pup was waiting with Shuuichi and Maki. “I’m so pumped!!! Let’s go fight monsters!!” she exclaimed, suddenly shooting right back up, hands fisted into the air.

Kokichi laughed as Kaito handed the outline back to the attendant, stepping forward so their group could get ready to go in. “Okay, okay! But you’ve heard the rules more than I have--let’s not get anyone hurt, especially the monsters inside. We are going to their turf, after all.”

It was almost a magical sort of switch. Once you stepped onto the mansion patio, it was no longer a set with actors inside--each room was a portal to another world, inhabited by monsters. And, well, bad people, but those scenes were usually reserved for the night tour, at least graphically. 

Once the chef attendant gave them the okay--having sent a message through the side hallways they left between each room, both for escorting people out, and to let all the actors know what was up with each group, if they should play things up or keep it mellow--they entered the haunted house, immediately walking into a sort of dimness that seemed weird when compared to how sunny the day was. 

The first room...seemed very much just like an entryway to a mansion, but...old and abandoned. The lights seemed like they’d burn out at any moment, and flickered constantly, and everything was coated in dust and cobwebs (though Kokichi didn’t think he could see dust in the air, so it was...some sort of adhesive texture, probably), but you could hear the faint ticking of a clock. There was a closet open to the side, likely used for guests, but it too seemed abandoned, and the jackets you could see inside were incredibly old fashioned, styles that hadn’t been worn for hundred of years.

Kokichi looked around, fascinated by all the props, until a loud voice called out. 

“GUESTS! We have GUESTS, everyone!!”

All of a sudden, candles burst into flame, the closet door slamming shut on its own as things started to be put back in order, clouded vases having their flowers adjusted and rugs suddenly straightening out, though there wasn’t a person in sight. 

“Ooooooh!” Cali gushed, her eyes wide as saucers as the world around her straightened and moved, tugging at Timothy’s shirt, saying, “Look, look! The chandelier is swaying!”

Timothy nodded tensely, glaring at the shadows of the room, stepping quietly slightly in front of Cali, glancing rapidly at Kimiko, who was similarly wowed by the display. He knew this was all fake. He wasn’t afraid. He wasn’t stupid, like dad, and wouldn’t forget this was all fake.

But he took a protective stance in front of Cali anyway, who didn’t notice what he was doing, just jumping at her toes, saying, “Look! Look at the rug! Oooooh, that’s cool!”

Kaito, in turn, was okay. He was holding Kokichi’s hand, and glanced down at the kids real quick, but none of this felt dangerous, so he looked around with interest, whispering, “Man, I wonder how they’re doing this…” 

“Right?” Kokichi murmured back, laughing a bit at a mirror with a floating rag cleaning it, not seeing...any way that it was possible. Maybe...magnets? “I’ve always heard that it’s magical, but this is amazing…”

Just like looking at the outline didn’t spoil the tour, years of looking over Nao’s blueprints didn’t spoil actually getting to see them in action himself. He knew that what they were seeing of the room was actually smaller than it was, the crew taking advantage of the space to hide themselves, using small wires and strings and simple mechanics to do whatever it was that year, but...with the lighting and atmosphere, he really couldn’t see any of it. 

Oooing and ahhing at all the things moving on their own, they made their way leisurely in through the entryway until what looked to be a humanoid figure, still too cloaked in shadow to really see what they looked like, was walking down the grand stairway to the upper floor, arms spread like they were a host about to greet new guests. And, indeed--

“My esteemed g--AHHH!!”

Kokichi jumped a little at that, the scream really sounding terrified, and all of a sudden they were surrounded by the sounds of doors slamming shut, the candles all blown out in a gust and the voice from the beginning whimpered, joined by others. “Run, run! Oh god, what is that? Get away!!”

“This way!!”

The whole room seemed to shake, and there was someone just ahead of them in an old-timey maid’s costume, gesturing frantically to the group to run through the door they were holding open. 

Kaito’s heart leapt into his throat, wondering had something gone wrong? Did they need help? Maybe this was real, maybe something had gone wron-

“Come on, come on! It’s time to run!” Kimiko shouted, beckoning to her mother and her friends, her voice delighted as Shirogane, also looking calm, hiked up her skirt a bit and ran after them, Kaito and Kokichi following behind. Kaito guessed based on Kimiko and Shirogane’s ease that being tasked with running through the rooms was a common theme of the haunted house, and he took a deep breath as he ran, reminding himself this was a play and it was all fake.

Cali, in turn, was grinning wide, laughing excitedly as they ran, but as they moved to the next room, running into a suffocating darkness, she glanced at Tim to her left real quick, glanced at his hands...and clutched onto his arm, saying urgently into his ear, “Give that to me.”

“No.” Tim said tensely in the dark, shoulders stressed.

“Yes. I’ll give it back if we’re in trouble, okay? Give it!”

Tim swallowed hard...and then handed her the knife he was holding. Cali took a breath, before tucking it into her shorts pocket that she was wearing under her tutu. Honestly, Tim was such a high maintenance friend. He was very lucky Cali was looking after him, geez.

As the group were all shuffled into a pitch black room, the door behind them SLAMMING shut. 

After a moment of being left in the dark, lights started to rise, and they were in what looked like a study? But the walls were cracked, like something had slammed or clawed against them, and the items inside were all disheveled, the desk on its side and one of the legs shattered off and lodged into a ‘window’ that looked into nothing but shadows (Kaito’s eyes lingered on that desk leg.), books on the ground, a painting on the wall that looked ripped to shreds…

And the person, who was in tatters in the painting, closed their eyes and sighed, saying, “Oh dear. Mortals are here. I wish we could save you… but the house is hungry…”

And the walls suddenly all banged forward, bending in the middle, like something had slammed into their centers at all sides. The doors rattled and slammed and bent, and then the cracks in the walls became more pronounced, until finally-

Then two of the walls came DOWN, and two large, clawed hands, each the size of a horse, shot in through the two holes in the wall, trying to grab any of the group and missing (by a good few feet) to pull them into the belly of the house itself, as everywhere around them, something growled.

Shrigane gasped, “Oh my.” as Kimiko screamed. Cali started kicking towards one of the hands, shouting, “Back! Back!” (not getting anywhere near to hitting it, because again, the massive hands were actually a decent bit away from them) while Tim just watched quietly, furious and tight lipped.

Kaito, in turn, grasped Kokichi’s shoulders and pulled him back into the group as far as he could, and reaching to to grab Timothy as well, pulling him farther away from the hands as well as he shouted, “Fuck! Shit!”

“Language!” Kimiko shouted.

Kokichi giggled to himself as they ran, getting an idea of one of the themes this year. Maybe he’d hit everything on the head when he told Cali that they were the intruders here. There’d be more than that, since there were only so many iterations on the idea before your audience felt like they were being hit over the head with some sort of moral, but still...an interesting take. 

Keeping his eyes wide in the dark (there wasn’t a strobe warning for this room, so he figured he wasn’t about so be blinded with light), Kokichi was just as curious about the setting of this room as well, and...Kaito wasn’t the only person who focused on the broken desk leg for more than a moment. Everything else was different, so it really could just be a coincidence… But Kokichi knew with confirmation that Nao was always collecting ideas for the tour. She’d told him straight out a few times how things were inspired by freak accidents and tragedies and stories that had actually happened. 

(...Fuyuji had been in a bit of a stormy mood for a while, years back. While the lesson of resisting mob mentality and taking a second look at what you were doing even if you thought it was just were good things… Well, not everyone appreciated having their life stories retold for scares.)

Kokichi found his attention drawn to the painting as it spoke (very cool effect), eyebrows raising before he went agape at the massive hands bursting through the walls, growls echoing all around them…

But he had to laugh at Kimiko chastising Kaito for his language. Giggling, Kokichi gave his husband’s hand a comforting pat, tipping his head back into his chest. Usually this was something only kids did, but…

“Hey, no one should go hungry during Harvest!” he called out. “If you let us go, we can go get plates from the feast tables! I promise, cinnamon baked apples taste a lot better than whatever you’re thinking about eating from us. Then we could all eat together!”

There was a pause at that, the growling stopped ad the hands rested on the floor...and while individual finger movements seemed to be too much for the mechanical hands to accomplish, the right hand did make a convincing impression of someone maybe tapping the floor thoughtfully as the growly voice went, “Hmmmmmm…”

And then the hands went palms up, moving upwards in a fairly good impression of something ‘shrugging’, before the back door popped open. A big, growly voice booming, “...’kay…”

“Are we getting cinnamon apples during the tour?” Kimiko whispered to Cali, who just shrugged, as the group shuffled forward towards the open door, the hands tapping out a small, restless beat behind them, as they once again walked out into darkness. 

Kokichi laughed softly to himself, not sure if he’d...ruined the atmosphere but...it seemed right to do. From what he heard, the actors usually enjoyed doing some improv with whatever the guests said or did during the tour at least. It was only the second room, too, so they’d be able to get the mood back up if he’d messed it up.

The next room didn’t put them straight into darkness like the last two, retaining the low lighting, but that didn’t mean that things were, er, easy to parse. They were thrust into a...cut off hallway of sorts, but everything was covered in mirrors. And not just straight up mirrors either, but a lot of different sized ones, some warped inwards or outwards or both, twisted around corners, while every once in a while lights seemed to blink up above them, but were really lights reflecting off hanging pieces of mirror, idly spinning this way and that, making for a quite disorienting experience. 

Seeing his reflection, Kokichi sighed, grumbling, “...knew I look ridiculous…” before starting to walk forward into the maze of sorts. 

As the group moved forward, they would find...shapes, moving in the darkness in the gaps between mirrors, eyes blinking for a moment before moving away, and, after a few turns, there were drips and trails of “blood” on the ground and on certain mirrors.

Kaito, in turn, caught a glimpse of himself as one of the mirrors spun slightly, catching him at an angle...man. 

He had never really considered his ass one of his better featurs, but fuck the heels and short robe helped. 

In fact, Kaito was thoroughly distracted as they walked down the hallway, looking from mirror to mirror to check out different parts of himself. Hmmm, his hair really was getting long, he thought to himself, as he peered at it through smears of blood. Let’s see what the outfit looks like slightly from above without the jacket, he decided, looking up with interest, not noticing the eyes in the darkness as he gently shrugged off his jacket, throwing it over his shoulder as he admired himself. Maybe if he, like...hung the jacket on the edges of his shoulders, sort of like a cape? 

Or, or, what if he...put one sleeve on, and hung the other on the edge of his- “SCREEEEECH!!!”

Kaito jumped, clinging to Kokichi, his whole body shivering as he shouted, “God DAMN IT!”

“Language!” Cali called out, clutching Tim and Kimiko’s hands, looking pretty nervous herself now.

Kokichi walked through the maze quietly, wondering if all the little things behind the mirrors were...they couldn’t each be controlled by a person, right? Maybe...all the ones on the same level were on some sort of board, and the crewmember behind the mirrors could like...shift them back and forth, some visible, some not. If so...they were calculated really well, because it felt like everywhere he looked he’d get a glimpse of something underneath. 

And the story-telling! Without an actor actually being there, just how the environment was set up! At first, the blood trails led around short, obvious dead ends, but they contained spike traps and...well, other sorts of traps too, all meant to catch anyone who strayed from the path… It told you to avoid the blood trails when the branches started getting more complicated--or, to carefully walk towards them and peer carefully, seeing what was undoubtedly a more gruesome trap. 

In all, it was really clever!

And even more when the group found themselves at a crossroads with every path splattered in blood--and it was even bright red, obnoxiously so, so even for fake blood it didn’t turn Kokichi’s stomach--when, suddenly! 

A larger mirror screeched open, scaring the dickens out of all of them, revealing a new, unbloodied pathway. 

Laughing delightedly, even as he held Kaito close, Kokichi moved to walk through the new pathway, tickled by just...ambient spookiness. 

The mirror pathway opened up, and with this, it seemed like the impression was that they weren’t ‘in’ the house anymore, or that the house itself had changed in some fundamental way, because now the pathway had morphed into being entirely overtaken with plant growth. Kaito frowned at this, holding Kokichi by his shoulders, literally able to smell the dirt in the air. Was this going to be the ‘garden’? He was pretty sure the garden was further along than this though...or, oh, maybe it was the mushroom room that he had been baffled over before…

And, indeed, as passageway opened up into a larger room, the plant life did indeed seem to become fungal in nature, bright patterns of pink and white, the mushrooms climbing and embedded into the walls, too big to be real, but still awfully convincing. It was actually almost pretty, and as they walked through, Kaito was a little lost as to what was meant to be ‘scary’ about it….

But his whole body jerked when, coming up from the floor, and prying themselves from the wall, people he hadn’t realized weren’t mere bumps and mushrooms lining the walls and ground rose up, their bodies weak and their movement jerking, groaning miserably as they reached out towards them.

As the kids screamed and giggled in delight, the mushroom people groaned out, “Jooooin usssss.” And Kaito….frowned. 

“That’s not fucking funny.” He whispered, quietly enough that he wouldn’t disturb the others, but clearly not fucking pleased in the slightest as he glared at them.

Kokichi had...a similar reaction. Aw over the setting, but once it became clear that the theme of this room was...mushroom people… Again. It could be a coincidence. There were stories about every sort of human and non-human anything fusions under the sun, and like...conversion and contagion were classic horror tropes but…

...too close to home. Shuuichi wasn’t a plant (or a mushroom), but...still. 

Sighing softly, Kokichi rubbed Kaito’s hand again, not saying anything this time, not wanting to ruin the kids’ fun now that they were farther into the tour. But, hopefully to just...distract themselves, Kokichi murmured, “...almost seems like a nice place for a tea party, huh? Mushrooms as tall as trees… Especially if there were those glowing kinds? Very cool atmosphere.”

They stepped lightly through the room, luckily no actors lying where people would reasonably walk, so there wasn’t a worry about that.

“...yeah.” Kaito murmured, still glaring at the actors. He didn’t know about Nao’s work in the haunted house, so he didn’t think this directly had anything to do with Shuuichi. But he did know that it wasn’t just their boyfriend who had been influenced by the pollen, and a lot of people had gotten addicted to the substance during the brewery orgies (Kaito had been blown away when someone had literally mentioned in passing how most of the time, those parties had ended in orgies. He had not gotten that vibe the night they went). 

He had to assume what happened at the brewery inpsired this, at least partly, and it was just...too fucking soon, okay? It was in bad taste. He was fucking glad Shuuichi hadn’t wanted to go through the house now.

But, still, he took a breath as eventually the door opened, and the group headed out again, leaving the mushroom people behind, Kaito promised himself to not let that fury in his blood affect his mood for the rest of the tour. He just used the time to distract hismelf by mindlessly describing the stupid fucking rock in his pocket to himself, until by the time they stepped out, he felt a little less like he wanted to punch someone.

For Kokichi, there wasn’t something immediately after the mushroom room to distract him, as the fungus gave way to just dirt. It was time for the garden room. Taking a breath, Kokichi closed his eyes and hugged around Kaito’s arm, trusting him and the pathway planned through the tour to make sure he wasn’t going to trip on anything. 

And while there was some dirt that spilled onto where it was evidently planned for people to walk, most of it was contained in raised bed filled with not flowers or vine-based plants, but…

Hands. 

Rows and rows of hands, the fingers splayed to resemble flowers anyway, and even the nails painted in bright, floral colors...though, it was clear that the person who did that was no salon artist, and sometimes entire fingers were coated in the nail polish. 

Up on top of an extra raised bed, an actor clad in gardening clothes was using a blood-splattered trowel to dig holes, what looked to be a stack of hands, some with arms, others with bones sticking out, next to them. The gardener barely gave them a glance before chuckling lowly. “Y’all better mosey on past, unless you’re here to donate some bait.”

“Wooooow.” Cali whispered, as Kimiko giggled, looking at the cut off hands in delight. Timothy eyed the gardener warily, but he had calmed down significantly basically since the mirror room, and was just sort of interested in the scene from an aesthetic perspective.

“Well, those nail jobs are just plain ugly, aren’t they.” Shrirogane sighed, shaking her head delicately at the paint job. “Cali, I’d say your efforts on Chase were much better done.”

“Yeah! My paint job was amazing!” Cali cheered, reaching over to poke one of the hands that looked like it was pointing outside of the dirt. 

As Kaito looked down in concern at Kokichi, noticing his eyes were closed, he looked around himself, before saying softly to Kokichi, “Babe, I don’t see any spiders or bugs or anything...it’s just a bunch of hands in the dirt and stuff.”

“Maybe you’d like a job here then, miss,” the gardener replied. “Though, most folks get out of here as soon as they can. Maybe one day you can take my place, then…”

Kokichi just shook his head. “As much as I’d like to, they don’t lie on the outline. I’d rather miss out on the room than close my eyes too late…,” he whispered, giving Kaito’s arm a squeeze. “Just describe it to me later, alright?”

And it was a good thing that Kokichi didn’t open his eyes to get a glance of the room, because almost as soon as he finished speaking, there were...things moving in the dirt. Not like the hands were moving, but little things dark on dark, making it hard to see what they were.

The gardener sighed and stood up, heading over to a little shed off to the side as they shook their head. “Well, that’s my queue to go. Good luck folks...hopefully your unlucky predecessors are enough to save your hides.”

And as the gardener slipped away, one of the mounds in the back began to move, and long, spear, or maybe spindle-like arms started to reach up over the garden. Little chittering sounds came up from all around, the little things that had been moving around before joined by slightly larger counterparts, what must’ve been dozens, no, hundreds of quickly moving spiders coming up out of the dirt and surrounding the planted hands. All as a low rumbling continued, two, then four eyes peeking over the crest now, revealing a giant spider big enough to envelop the whole room. 

Only able to hear the sounds, Kokichi still didn’t like the sound of the chittering, and held himself close to Kaito, squeezing his eyes shut.

Kaito tensed, and as the dirt shifted and parted and the spiders started moving upwards, Kaito grit his teeth and, without prep or warning, picked Kokichi up, holding him against his waist and keeping his hand on the back of Kokichi’s head, keeping his face pressed into the crook of his neck. 

Meanwhile, Timothy gasped and Kimiko, for once, lost her composure entirely, screaming and bolting back to her mother, hiding herself in her skirt as Timothy and Cali both instinctively got into fighting stances, their legs widening, shoulders squaring, Timothy’s shoulders rising up a bit towards his ears as his brow furrowed and he growled, Cali trembling violently and squealing slightly, eyes wide, but no part of her taking so much as a step back.

“Goodness! That’s impressive!” Shrigogane praised, running a comforting hand over her daughters hair, before looking over to Kaito, shifting herself and Kimiko over closer to him quietly. 

“Tim, Cali! Back here!” Kaito barked, and both kids finally retreated from the display of the spiders, running back to Kaito, staying close to his legs as Kaito grit his teeth, reminding himself that this was fake and the spiders all had to be fake, right? But, shuddering slightly, he called out, “Okay, okay, enough! This is a good one! Can we move on!?”

Kokichi didn’t fuss at all as Kaito scooped him up and just pressed his face into Kaito’s neck, but...with the sounds of the tour, but added in that Kaito felt the need to pick him up, and then hearing the kids start to freak a bit… Kokichi took deep breaths, keeping himself calm. If it was this intense, then it was a good thing he had his eyes closed. It just meant that the tour crew had done a really good job on this room.

Such a good job, that they’d realized that some people just...froze in the room, even if they weren’t particularly scared of spiders anyway. 

“Hey, over here!” a voice called, dressed a bit more brightly than the rest of the garden, making sure that they’d stand out. The pathway had been open the whole time, but sometimes people had a bit of trouble in the garden, the crew had found. 

“We’ve had a good harvest this year--it’ll be distracted for a while--this way!!”

“Okay, alright, let’s go. Move it, move it.” Kaito insisted, putting his hands on Tim’s shoulders, gently pushing him and, through Tim’s grip, Cali towards the pathway towards the crew member, Shirogane doing the same with Kimiko, the group moving quickly to get out of the spider room. 

Kaito took a deep breath, glad to be leaving the room behind him, and as they hurried down the path, the dirt thinned out, until they were standing on something incredibly smooth and dark, like glass above...well, it couldn’t actually be a massive, gaping black hole below them, but the effect was very convincing. 

Kaito put Kokichi down, and chuckled lightly “Spiders are done, babe. That shit was rough. It’s a good thing you didn’t listen to me.”

“Language.” Timothy muttered, as he looked around. 

The effect of the room was a little strange. It sort of felt like they were walking over a massive hole, but the room only felt dizzyingly big when a light lit up from the center of the room, below in the flooring. It looked like the light was far, far down below, and above them, there were little specks of light, like stars, as if the room had no ceiling. 

And the room, after awhile, started to vibrate. And the light below began to get bigger.

Kokichi really only let out his breath when Kaito set him down, tentatively opening his eyes, though he knew Kaito wouldn’t lie to him about this. “Thanks, Kai-chan. Maybe don’t go into a lot of detail when you tell me about it, mm?”

He was teasing, but didn’t laugh along, too impressed with the new visuals. They were...probably on some sort of elevation, the change hidden by the dirt of the last room but...even if they were on a raised platform...the hole below them looked like it stretched for miles, and the “sky” above really did feel like a sky. It was only the lack of wind that broke the illusion of them actually being outside.

Kokichi knew the scary bit was going to come but… He smiled up at the “stars”, taking Kaito’s hand. “...makes me wanna go to the observatory, hm? Finally get to our date…”

But the observatory would be much more stable than whatever was happening now. Kokichi blinked down at the growing light, not really trying to hurry up across the floor, more curious about what would happen. 

“...is this supposed to be a supernova?”

Kaito shook his head, saying quietly, “Supernova’s would be much more colorful. The explosions of gas that complicated would look like more than orange or blue fire, it’d be insane combinations of greens and purples a-and...u-um…” 

The rooms vibrations became violent, as what indeed looked more and more like fire raced up towards them, and he knew it was fake, he knew it was, but- “Move! Move!” 

There would have probably been something extra, to justify why they weren’t consumed in flames if the group had decided to stay still and see it through, but Kaito panicked and, literally, pushed everyone forward, Shirogane tsking slightly as she said, “It’s quite alright, Prince Kaito, you don’t need to be-oh my.” 

As soon as the group had stepped off the glass path and back into a normal hallway, they all looked back as a sudden ROAR of an inferno screamed at them, the light of the fire blinding them. Before the doors slammed shut, Kaito would swear on Atua that he felt the heat of the rising fire, before the doors shut, and they were left in a…

...street?

Kokichi had been content to ample across the room, taking in everything he could, but as Kaito moved then all forward, Kokichi stumbled along with the group, a little put out that he couldn’t watch more, but...a little amused that Kaito was drawn into the fantasy so much. Though, that’s kind of what he’d been worried about with Kaito not liking creepy stuff in the first place. 

However, as the...almost shoot-out of an explosion roared out, painting everything in blinding light… Well, Kokichi was still curious what it’d be like if they were still there, but he was a little glad not to be caught up in it.

He chuckled softly, hoping he could talk to one of the staff members about that room later, figuring out what they did for it, but as they stepped into the next area…

Huh…

“...this looks a little like the residential district…” he softly noted. The rows of houses all arranged according to Gorou’s layout… But instead of...often flourishing personal gardens, or children’s toys left out on clover patches, or extra hobby space… It was barren. The houses left dark, and instead of the noise of life it was...silent. 

“It’s kinda creepy, isn’t it?” Cali whispered, reaching over to take Kimiko’s hand, who nodded and laughed, looking around with keen interest. Taking a deep breath, Cali called out, “Hello!?”

There were several loud gasps, but unlike many of the other rooms, the effect of having it sound like it was coming from everywhere, or right by them, at least, was missing. Instead, the sounds were slightly muffled, very distinctly coming...from behind the closed doors of the house fronts.

There was a shush, and another murmur, somehow both projected so the tour guests could hear, but also sounding like it wasn’t meant to be heard, “Shh, the monsters are here! If we’re quiet, they’ll leave.”

“...” Kaito quietly looked around.

As they walked down the street, the atmosphere became more and more eerie. When they looked towards the windows, somethings inside of them gasped and hid away quickly.  When Cali looked over her shoulders, something that had been staring at them from behind them scurried into one of the houses, someone inside saying, “Hurry, hurry, hide!”

“They’re here.” Someone to their left whispered, their voices bouncing around the walls.

“D-don’t breath so loud, they’ll hear.” Another one said somewhere behind them.

“The monsters…”

“...” Kaito looked over at Tim, who was staring blankly down at the floor in front of him. Leaving Kokichi behind for the first time the whole haunted house, Kaito moved over to him, putting a hand around his shoulder and pulled him into his side. 

Neither of them said a word to each other, but Timothy moved his body to be slightly angled into Kaito’s side, and grasped at his shirt, staring at Kaito’s feet. There wasn’t anything...Kaito could say to him right now. Not with everyone else there. But Kaito just quietly followed the group down the street.

Kokichi didn’t think they were at the end of the tour, but...this seemed very much like the culmination of the theme he’d guessed at. They’d made it through all the traps and defences made to protect the home they’d intruded on, and now they’d left the inhabitants nothing to do but hide and just hope they wouldn’t be found. 

It was a different kind of fear, definitely, one that he didn’t think they’d do for the all ages tour...but maybe it was a concept that was good to introduce to people earlier rather than later. 

But as Kaito left him to hold Tim…

...it made Kokichi feel guilty, that it took him a little longer to realize than it had for the Mushroom Room. 

The sort of fear that the room represented was...making you the scary thing. Forcing you to face a situation where you weren’t the victim or a bystander, even, but that you were the problem. It was so shocking because...for Diceans who had been surrounded by community and people reaching out to understand them, and especially for just having been in a war that they had not instigated and were only defending...it was novel. Just a room in a haunted house tour, but maybe something that got you to look at yourself differently through. 

...Kokichi doubted anything like this would show up anywhere in Luminous culture because...it was just life. Nothing groundbreaking. 

...Tim had said that he’d only seen the inside of a house when his fellow soldiers were pulling people out…

...this wasn’t novel for him. It wasn’t a wild fantasy trying to impart a fable. 

...it was probably more like a memory. 

Sighing quietly, Kokichi tried to catch the eyes of the girls, putting a finger to his lips and exaggeratedly tip-toeing, just trying to be absolutely quiet as they walked down the “street”, going to the exit to the next room. Just...trying not to disturb the townspeople anymore, and going to leave them in peace.

...and not bringing anything else up either.

The last room was shockingly cheerful.

Once they had gotten to the end of the ‘street’, opening the door, there was celebratory music, the group standing in a large dining room. Much in the same way as the entrance hall, things were moving on their own, chairs tilting back and being pulled out and in from under the table, forks hovering in the air over plates, gauntlets tipping back looking like they were being drunk. 

Voices everywhere, laughing and cheering, and in the far part of the room were floating old coats and dresses, dancing together joyfully to the music. A room of ghosts cheerfully partying and celebrating. Thematically maybe the house residents overjoyed that they had, uh…’survived’ their guests? 

Kaito couldn’t guess. But at the looks of the party, he grinned down at Tim, trying to make an effort to bolster his spirits as he said, “This is pretty cool, right?”

Tim looked around, shrugging a little, though he also seemed mildly pleased that there was so much going on here. 

“Wouldn’t it be fun to take Kimiko to a party like this someday?”

“No! What? Why?” Timothy balked, glaring at his dad, flustered, who just grinned back, smacking his shoulder a little.

“Don’t worry, kid, I’m gonna teach you how to dance, so you’ll sweep her off her feet someday! It’ll be great!”

Timothy rolled his eyes, but when the two eventually followed the group out of this last room and back into the natural light, blinking through the rays, both of them look a little better, having shaken off the street. 

“That was amazing!!” Cali shouted, jumping up and down and looking back at the rest of them, “Wasn’t that amazing!?”

The last room was a nice little bow to it all, allowing the guests to shake off anything that had actually frightened them and sending them off with a smile. Just like the first room, Kokichi enjoyed looking at all the little setting details and trying to figure out how just on earth they managed to get everything to move like that, but by the time they stepped out of the back door of the house…

“Incredible,” Kokichi agreed with Cali, his face just a little too pale to be called his natural hue. “I’ve heard all sorts of stories about the tour, but it’s totally different seeing it in person. It’s no wonder why people work for months putting it all together.”

Kokichi turned to look back at Kaito, his steps a little less than steady. “I think...I need a sit down after that though… Kai-chan? Would you mind walking me over to Shuu-chan and Maki-chan? Kinda… Dizzy…” 

Kaito took a second to squeeze Timothy’s shoulder for a moment, making a promise to himself to later really sit down with Tim and talk about what happened, but for right now, at least, his husband called him. Frowning at Kokichi’s complexion, Kaito moved quickly to his side, leaning down as he put a steadying hand on Kokichi’s shoulder, placing a hand first on his forehead, then against the pulse in his neck. His temperature felt fine, but his heart rate was a little high, it seemed to Kaito…

“Do you want me to carry you, babe? It’s not far, and no one’s, uh, gonna make you stop or anything just cause you need a little break,” Kaito offered, though he was prepared to just lend his arm if Kokichi refused him.

“Nn-mm,” Kokichi shook his head a little. “I wanna walk. Just...yeah, need a little break. Kinda wanna process everything too, yanno? It might end up being a good time for you guys to get drinks or food or what’d’ya want too…”

Whatever the garden room had been like, he avoided it, and Kokichi really thought that he was okay with the rest of the tour but...getting out of the house he just felt…

...a little overstimulated, at the least. 

Sitting down, resting a little, maybe getting some more water, and he’d be all good, and without even any imagery to keep him up later that night. 

As the group headed down the hill, the kids started excitedly running around together again, trading stories back and forth of things they had noticed in the haunted house, none of it seeming to bother any of them anymore as they raced forward and backwards, desperately trying to burn off some of that endless nine-year-old energy. 

Shuuichi and Maki were sitting at a table under some shade, both of them drinking from little cups, whatever Shuuichi was drinking stacked high with whip cream, when they noticed them coming and waved.

Shuuichi smiled as Kokichi and Kaito sat across from him, Maki getting up to go check in with Shirogane. “Well?” Shuuichi asked. “How was it?”

“It was great!” Kaito said cheerfully, rubbing Kokichi’s back as he helped him sit, before saying, “I mean, nothing that knocks your socks off, you didn’t miss much, but it had its moments! I’ll let our ‘Kichi give you the play by play while I get us all some water.”

“I don’t need water, Kaito.”

“Whatever you’re drinking, it’s not water, so yes! Yes you do need water!” Kaito said cheerfully still, not about to hear any arguments on the subject as he went to a stall nearby. 

It was a short walk, but by the time they made it to the bench and tables Shuuichi and Maki had claimed, Kokichi was a little more shaky than he’d been and was grateful for the seat. Since the kids seemed to be happy to run around for a while longer, Kokichi lowered his mask for a moment, taking a few deep breaths.

Once he put his mask back on though, Kokichi gave his boyfriend a kind look. “It was really cool… I’m glad we went through. There are all sorts of...like, I wanna call ‘em stage t-tricks, for lack of a better term, that are really cool, gettin’ stuff to float or move around…”

Kokichi crossed his arms on the table, resting his head on them. “Were a few rooms I wasn’t really into, and not just the one with the bugs--I had my eyes closed the entire time, so Kai-chan’ll have to tell you about that one. I mean just...themes that didn’t hit, yanno? Can’t win ‘em all…”

Slowly, Kokichi’s eyes drifted shut as he spoke, seeming almost like he was going to fall asleep right then and there as he loosely described the tour, catching onto Kaito’s drift and not trying to make it sound...like a must-see kind of thing.

Shuuichi frowned slightly, getting up and going around the table, sitting down next to him and carefully, soothingly rubbing his back now, saying quietly, “Are you okay? You’re so pale, Kokichi...were you shaken? Or just not feeling well?”

Kokichi sighed softly, pleased with the back rubs, a little of that woozy feeling getting grounded. “M just feeling a little off… Didn’t really feel scared, jus’ startled a few times… Maybe that was it.”

He cracked an eye open, looking up at Shuuichi. “Not too used to bein’ jumpscared, you know? But I’m okay...just need to sit for a bit, I think.” Another soft sigh. “...but this feels nice. Thanks, Shuu-chan.”

Shuuichi just smiled at him some more, ignoring the haunted house that loomed over them, as he kept gently rubbing Kokichi’s back and whispering little assurances to him, until finally Kaito came back with a pitcher of ice water and a bunch of cups, calling out, “Kids! Come here and hydrate!”

Pouring water for everyone, Kaito gave Kokichi his cup first, and Shuuichi fussed over him as he drank it, reminding him to drink in small bursts as the kids gulped their cups down, before Cali gasped. “Our candy! We forgot it!!”

“Shoot.” Timothy said, before his eyes widened, looking around as he said, “Wait, Kimiko’s bear…”

Kimiko frowned, puzzled, “My bear?”

“I’ve got it.” Maki said, rolling her eyes, showing Tim where she had secured the thing on her belt, its paw trapped, before saying, “Alright you three, lets go back up, we’ll get your candy. Tsumugi, you coming?”

“Certainly.” She said, the two women leading the kids back up the hill to claim their forgotten treats.

Kaito said down on Kokichi’s other side, looking over his husband with some concern, before saying, “Maybe the next thing we do can be something easy and low key.”

The water helped a little more, Kokichi head clearing up more, enough for him to sit back up. He was a little tired from the day already, especially since his had started earlier, but definitely nowhere near enough to...go back and take a nap or something. 

Kokichi could feel his expression start to harden a bit with the amount of fussing his lovers were doing but… They love you. They just care about you. It’s okay. Sighing, but this time out of exasperation a little, Kokichi shrugged. “If you wanna, but I’m okay, really. You… You said it yourself, before, remember?”

And it didn’t exactly make him happy but...it was true. 

“I just need a little more rest than most people. Lemme recharge a little here, and then we can go on to enjoy more of the festival,” he assured with a grin. However, Kokichi looked around a bit, fondly watching someone dressed in a black, hooded cloak pass out plates to the people working the information table, then go around to presumably bring food to other members of the crew. “Though...this is part of it too. Just enjoying the atmosphere. Might be a little boring for the kids, though.”

“Well, I don’t mind it any, but… let me go talk to Maki and Shirogane. Maybe they can take the kids to go do another one of these candy activities?” Kaito wondered, looking up at the hill.

“Maki might not want to do that. She really wants today to go well, and I think she’s a little nervous to leave any of us alone too long because of that.” Shuuichi pointed out, he and Maki having more or less been discussing that while they were gone. 

Kaito tsked slightly, before saying, “Hmmm...well, I’ll still talk to them about it. Maybe Shirogane can take them to an event and we’ll meet up with them when they’d realistically be done. Anyway, give me a bit guys, I’ll be right back.” Kaito said, heading off.

Shuuichi quietly watched Kaito run off, once again looking up at the haunted house. A haunted mansion, really. Hmmm…

“Kaito and Maki are trying very hard to keep an eye on everyone.” Shuuichi observed. “I wish I could say they were just being too high strung, but our track records for outings like this aren’t great…”

It’d be a little disappointing to split up...but if it meant that everyone could see and do the things that they wanted, then it just meant there’d be more to talk about later. Though getting to see Tim properly give Kimiko the bear was really something Kokichi wanted to see--along with how Cali might try to get something for their friend too. 

Kokichi poured himself another cup of water, figuring it never hurt to hydrate, though he sighed at Shuuichi’s observation. “Well, I’m pretty sure there’s no one left in the city who’d wanna kidnap me, so there’s that, at least. I wanna say that we can trust to just...be okay but…”

But, as Shuuichi said--their track record said differently. Despite how much Kokichi wanted to trust in his people...he couldn’t make himself ignorant to the few bad eggs. It was irresponsible, and would be putting other people in danger. Not to mention the stress he’d be causing his friends to act like that…

“Still...I appreciate all the effort they’re going to, even if it seems excessive at times,” Kokichi hummed, putting his head on Shuuichi’s shoulder, not because he was feeling dizzy again, but just because he liked being close. “Means they care a lot. ‘M not gonna take advantage of that, though, and make Kai-chan go through the night tour. He was spooked enough with this one.”

“Well, it seemed like a good sign that he didn’t come running out of the house with all of you over his shoulders, which is what I half expected to happen.” Shuuichi said, smiling fondly at some memories of Kaito doing exactly that with other ‘Tests of Courage’. 

Shuuichi leaned his head against Kokichi, enjoying the quiet companionship for a moment...before saying, “Kokichi? Can I talk to you about my restrictions?”

“He almost did, with one of the rooms,” Kokichi giggled, before sobering up a little, reaching for one of Shuuichi’s hands. 

“Always and any time,” he hummed. “Even if it would end up being no change...it’s good to check in. To re-evaluate things and make sure everyone’s on the same page, in actions and emotionally. ...if there’s any upside to how I grew up, I guess learning that was a good thing.”

...what a bummer to bring up. Sighing, Kokichi scrunched up his nose before shaking it off, his voice perking back up. “But! If what you wanna ask about is what I think! Then no change isn’t what I’d suggest.”

Admittedly, Shuuichi had felt his heart bottom out for a second, Kokichi so brightly and casually suggesting that even after talking about it, no changes might happen… but Shuuichi forced himself to relax when he realized Kokichi was just making a dry joke about his own upbringing. 

Shuuichi waited patiently for Kokichi to get past his mental hiccup, recognizing the expression of someone who has ‘Made Themselves Sad’ and giving Kokichi a minute to regroup. Then, when Kokichi continued on, Shuuichi carefully nodded. “Well...that’s good. I tried to talk to Maki about it, but she said that my restrictions were ultimately up to you, these days, so...yes, I would be interested in hearing your thoughts on it lately.”

“Maki-chan… Ugh, it’d still be nice to hear her thoughts.” Kokichi rolled his eyes a little, letting himself be a little irate with that branch of hierarchical thought. Glancing up at Shuuichi, he admitted, “Honestly? I’d like for us all to talk out what we’re thinking before we commit to any changes. I know it’s beyond frustrating for you, but...I’m not used to thinking about safety the same way Maki-chan is, or the same way Kai-chan is, or you either. We each have particular perspectives that make each one worth considering.”

“...buuuuuut.” Kokichi brought an arm around Shuuichi’s waist, holding him close. “For just my own thoughts, like Shuu-chan asked… I’d like to take off the last of the restrictions.”

Kokichi smiled softly, wishing he could’ve said that ages ago...but it just wasn’t responsible. But now… “You’ve been doing really well. You take your medicine when Kai-chan and I forget to bring it up, though it probably helps that Kai-chan has to take it too, and...I dunno. I get the impression that even if you knew where spores were, you wouldn’t go after them.”

Unlike that day when Kokichi had foolishly given Shuuichi a little more freedom, and immediately Shuuichi had tried to find out where Itch’s beer was. 

“...you’re still hurt by everything that happened, but...that’s not what the restrictions were for. It...it’s not to keep you helpless and trapped in your trauma…” His voice quieted, holding Shuuichi a little closer. Things were different between them but...out of all of them, he was probably the closest to knowing how this felt for Shuuichi. 

Kokichi shook his head a little, nuzzling against Shuuichi’s shoulder. “At the very least, I wanna fight for you being able to go to the commerce district and the university on your own. It’d make going to classes a lot easier if you didn’t need to schedule an escort, right?”

Shuuichi allowed himself to be held closer, leaning into Kokichi’s nuzzles and listening quietly to Kokich’s reasoning. Helpless and trapped in trauma…

Doubt suddenly niggled Shuuichi. The allowance to get himself to at least go to the commerce district and the university would make life a...lot easier. It wasn’t a small olive branch. That was...a lot to lose…

Shuuichi closed his eyes and rested his head against Kokichi’s. “That all means a lot to me, thank you. And I’m relieved to hear you say all that, Kokichi… but, if we bring this up to Maki and Kaito today, will you please remember all of that and argue on my behalf?”

“You know how they are…” Shuuichi said quietly, glancing over at the hill, where his friends, presumably, were. “They care very, very much, and are...very paranoid. And I don’t know how they’ll both think about the idea of lifting up more of my restrictions. They may have arguments against your ideas.”

“But, I am doing better, right? I’ve been regular with my medication, like you said, and I’ve been focusing on my work, and I haven't even considered seeking out spores in I don’t even know how long…” Shuuichi gave Kokichi a soft smile, lifting his head to look him in the eye, “I feel fine. I feel great, even. I really think I’m ready…will you tell them that? When I get the chance to bring it up? That I’m ready, Kokichi?” Shuuichi asked, giving Kokichi a somewhat pleading look, genuinely uncertain Kaito and Maki’s mindset on it and knowing he needed someone fully in his corner…

Kokichi gave a soft, adoring smile to Shuuichi, and while the smile itself was under his mask, it was apparent in his eyes, in the slight way his cheeks raised up in the expression. “...most of all, I’m glad to hear you say you’re doing alright. It helps a lot to have someone believe in you, but for something like this...you need to believe in yourself, Shuu-chan. So if you say you’re okay, that when things go wrong you can stay strong and get help when you need it...then, with seeing your recovery myself, I can back you up one hundred percent.”

Gently, Kokichi sat up to boop his clothed nose against Shuuichi’s, the closest he could get to a kiss right now. “I want to listen to the arguments Kai-chan and Maki-chan have. Maybe there is a good reason to not lift everything, and I just haven’t thought of it. But, as I see it right now...the only arguments are things that you could argue for not letting a single person outside ever.”

“You can’t protect anyone from everything. Accidents happen, and there are a lot of forces out of our control. But...Shuu-chan is at the point where the accidents he could make are because of things he doesn’t know about, or are out of his control. And at that point, it’s unreasonable to restrict your autonomy.”

“Still,” he laughed. “I know I’d appreciate stuff like you letting us know if you’re going out, but that’s just, yanno, part and parcel in caring about someone. Not a rule in the slightest.”

Shuuichi looked at Kokichi fondly, feeling reassured that Kokichi really did intend to back him up on his bid to get his restrictions lifted, even with, as he put it, the possibility of having an ‘accident’. 

...he wondered if Kokichi would understand that Shuuichi needed to see Nao?

Maybe he’d even approve? After all, Kokichi and Nao were close, right? Kokichi called her ‘Aunty Nao’, which still boggled Shuuichi’s mind every time he heard it… but the point being that...certainly he could understand Shuuichi needing…

...he didn’t know. 

Closure?

...he didn’t know…

It hurt, to just...know she was so close. That she was just up there. That she didn’t...she didn’t want to see him… and he had no idea what he wanted from her. He had no idea. He had no idea.

...but he knew Kaito and Maki would never approve of him going to see her. Not in a thousand years. If Kaito, especially, got even a hint that that was what Shuuichi wanted to do? The two of them would throw him into Maki’s room and lock the door until either he or Nao was dead. And Maki would make sure it was Nao first.

Well, no, not literally. Probably not literally. Maybe not literally. But they wouldn’t be happy.

...he understood why. She wasn’t… Maki and Kaito loved him. Of course you didn’t want to allow someone you love to wander back to someone who had abused them. And...Shuuichi...understood it was abuse now, everything that had happened. He wasn’t naive. He understood…

...but he had to see her…

...he couldn’t tell Kokichi. Kokichi couldn’t keep a secret. Or, rather, wouldn’t keep a secret. He’d tell Maki and Kaito, and Maki and Kaito would stop him. Kokichi couldn’t be trusted, and Kaito couldn’t be told. So…

He kept himself as neutral and casual as he could, as he said, “Thank you Kokichi. Hopefully we can all talk about it soon, and they’ll see things your way. I understand you all need to talk about it. But I really do feel ready…”

Shuuichi could see Kaito’s shock of red hair, coming back down the hill.

“We need to talk about it,” Kokichi gently corrected. Even if Kaito and Maki brought up a valid reason for keeping more of an eye on Shuuichi than the average person (or, than the average pregnant boyfriend), Shuuichi should have more of a say in his own personhood. Now that he wasn’t...looking for ways to self-destruct, he needed to be more in charge of his own life. 

And it wasn’t like Kokichi didn’t know how terrifying that was. It’d been delayed with the spores but...the transition to really believing and acting upon his freedom was...going to be a transition no matter what. Choosing to take classes at the university was a good step, in Kokichi’s eyes, at least. 

Kokichi could see Kaito heading back their way, and maybe this wasn’t fair to Shuuichi, to put a short timer on this sort of conversation but…

“...she wasn’t there,” he murmured, holding Shuuichi close for a solid moment. “At least as an actor. Even the ones I couldn’t see didn’t have her voice.”

Shuuichi froze.

“...” Shuuichi ran a hand over his forehead. Feeling sick. His stomach twisting uneasily. “...are you certain…” but Shuuichi knew that if Kokichi said it, he was. 

Moving his hand onto the brim of his hat, he lowered it as far down as he could over his face, his shoulders hunching up to his ears. “...was I that transparent?” Shuuichi asked miserably.

Kokichi glanced up to Shuuichi, surprised, before understanding saddened his gaze. “...no. But we’ve talked about how you feel about her. And...despite the why, she is important to you.”

“...Shuu-chan?” Kokichi pressed his nose against Shuuichi’s shoulder, speaking quietly so even if Kaito came up quickly, he wouldn’t hear. “As someone that cares about you...this is advice. Not a demand. But I don’t think you should seek her out.”

“...you two need to talk. But it needs to be safe. In a place and time you both agree to, that isn’t...home turf, so to speak, for either of you. Personally...I think a counselor or someone should be there but...I know some things might be too personal. So...maybe have someone nearby.”

“...if you decide to do something like that...I can get a message to her. So just let me know. I love you…” 

...Shuuichi didn’t know why he felt so fucking devestated, but he did. 

He had thought he was finally going to do it. He was finally going to confront her and if he confronted her maybe all the flashbacks and the sick feelings and that feeling of always, always being unclean would go away...that maybe after tonight he’d feel like a real person again…

Shuuichi huffed a small breath behind his mask and laid his head down on the table and put his arms over his head for a bit, just letting his despair overwhelm him for a moment as his shoulder gently shook, so god damn disappointed...and he knew he should get it together before Kaito go there and asked them what was wrong... 

But before that thought could even kind of become action, Kaito got there and looked at Shuuichi in alarm before saying, “Hey, woah now...what’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” Shuuichi said into the wood of the bench, voice tight. “Give me a second...just feeling hormonal…”

Kaito looked at Kokichi questioningly, as he went to sit down on the opposite end of both of them, wanting to keep an eye on both of them as he tried to work out who needed what.

Kokichi put a hand on Shuuichi’s back this time, conveying that he was there for his boyfriend in a more...spiritual sense than the physical comfort Shuuichi had given him earlier. There...wasn’t really a happy ending to this, just looking at what had happened between Shuuichi and Nao. What she had done to him couldn’t be undone, and it couldn’t be erased. They could only move forward. 

Shuuichi getting love and validation elsewhere, getting control of his own life. Nao working to be a better person, one that would know how to help people properly in the future, and...not causing any more pain for them. 

But Shuuichi still had questions. And...Kokichi had a hunch that he still had a lot of pain and anger that...might be helped with confronting their instigator. Giving him a chance to...yell at her, demand answers, even if he might not like what he got...it might be something really good for Shuuichi. 

It might hurt more. 

But Nao wasn’t just...going to be a forgotten memory. So...in Kokichi’s opinion, it was something Shuuichi needed to do. 

Sighing softly, Kokichi gave Kaito a small smile. “Thanks for getting the pitcher, Kai-chan. I’m feeling a lot better now.” 

And it would only help if Shuuichi knew that his friends wouldn’t be running after him ready to beat Nao to a pulp.

Kaito looked back and forth between Kokichi and Shuuichi, Shuuichi hiding himself in his arms while Kokichi soothingly rested a hand against his back, and Kaito got the sense that he wasn’t being let in on something...but. Well. 

Kaito sighed, running a hand through his hair, before rubbing the back of his neck. He couldn’t demand Kokichi and Shuuichi communicate to him every single time something bothered them, while it was bothering them. Or, well, he could, but he had a feeling it wouldn’t help. Not that he wasn’t determined to find out what happened eventually. Just maybe not at the exact moment where Shuuichi was still crying about it.

So, instead, he just said, “No one's hurt? This isn’t physical?”

“No…” Shuuichi muttered in his arms.

“Alright…” Kaito looked at a nearby tree, where the grass below it was soft and thick, and he stood up. “Well, if we’re taking a second, it might as well be a nice second. Shirogane and Maki are taking the kids to some sort of hacky sack race that’s starting up, and Maki’s coming back with Tim as soon as they’re done. Let’s just take a bit and people watch, alright? Make sure ‘Kichi’s steady and Shuuichi...we’ll just wait till we’re all good. Come on.”

Kaito insisted, going back around the table, and taking both of their arms, gently pulling them off it and guiding them towards the tree.

He didn’t make the decision idly. The tables had people coming off and on them constantly, and even if it hadn’t been the royal family, people were going to stare when Shuuichi was clearly crying. Kaito just wanted to bring them all away from the eyes a little. Make them slightly ‘other’ from the crowd.

Shuuichi sighed, eyes red-rimmed, as he sat down with a slump onto the grass, not caring where he was sitting, but now a little annoyed with himself as he muttered to Kokichi, “...sorry. I didn’t mean to do that.”

Kokichi did wish that they could talk to Kaito about this but...confrontation wasn’t a strong suit of his husband’s. It just...always seemed to end up with Kaito either curling up in himself, convinced that the other person was unequivocally right and he was just too dumb to understand (incorrect), or killing the other people--trying to, anyway. He knew that wasn’t fair to Kaito, and there were many shades in between, but when both he and Shuuichi knew how far into the ‘killing them’ side Kaito swung when it came to Nao… Kokichi wasn’t worried that Kaito would. He said he wouldn’t, and Kokichi believed him. He just...didn’t want to stoke that fire in Kaito, that would burn and make him pissed without any sort of outlet. 

...it wasn’t like he wasn’t angry at Nao too. Wasn’t furious at what she’d done… 

Gently pushing himself up from the table with a sigh, Kokichi nodded. “That sounds nice… Good idea, hun.” He was steadier this time as Kaito guided them over to the tree, but Kokichi still opted to hold onto Kaito’s arm, both for the closeness, and to soothe his husband’s concerns. 

And while he might’ve made Shuuichi’s worse…

“...it’s okay. You’re allowed to hurt,” Kokichi whispered back. 

“...I hate feeling like this.” Shuuichi confessed quietly. On Kokichi’s other side, Kaito just crossed his arms over his chest and looked at peoples costumes and tried not to give into his desire to just poke and prod and, fuck, not even evesdrop as much as he fucking wanted too. His lovers were...fucking allowed to not incluse him in fucking everything. They were dating each other as much as they were dating him (well, the ‘dating’ a more permanent fixture for him and Kokichi, what with the whole being married thing.). 

Just...fucking give them space, Momota. Hey? Imaginary family members that keep bothering him today? Anyone wanna distract him right now???

...wow. Really never actually going to do him any favors, huh? 

“She…” Shuuichi hesitated, glancing over Kokichi’s head, where Kaito was on the other side of the tree, looking stubbornly out at nothing. Saying quietly, he whispered to Kokichi. “She doesn’t matter. I literally don’t even know her. Ya know...I don’t even think I know her last name? I can’t remember it. I don’t know how old she is. I don’t…” Shuuichi grit his teeth, his eyes burning red again, “I don’t know what she likes to do for fun. I don’t know if she has any family other than a wife who...made me feel so...so small and...fuck. I’m sorry. I’m sorry.” Shuuichi whispered, getting himself worked up again as a furious tear fell out of his eye, curling his knees into his chest and resting his chin against them. 

“...I don’t know her. We’re not friends, or enemies, or anything other than this weird fucking thing she did to me for a week, and I hate that I can’t stop thinking about her. I wish I didn’t feel anything at all for her...I wish I still didn’t wonder why...why she bothered getting so involved in the first place? Why she didn’t just tell you and Kaito and just...I was a stranger to her. Why did she do it. What did I do…”

Shuuichi needed this, so Kokichi focused on him, but even still...he wrapped an arm around Kaito, gently rubbing his back. Maybe one day they could all talk about it, but that wouldn’t be for a long time, so...Kokichi just wanted to do that little gesture to remind Kaito that he loved him, even if this was just a conversation for him and Shuuichi. 

Sighing, Kokichi pressed his nose against the side of Shuuichi’s head, holding him close too. “You don’t have to apologize for being upset. For being hurt. I’m always hoping that it’ll hurt a little less each day, but...sometimes it’s just gonna hit you, and then I’ll be here to listen if you wanna talk, and to hold Shuu-chan and...I don’t know. Give what advice I can. Remind you that I love you.”

“But…” Kokichi nuzzled Shuuichi a little, looking off to the side into the grass. “...even if you don’t know each other...I don’t think that makes her not matter to you. Despite not being a friend or an enemy...she got in your head. Was with you for really vulnerable moments. ...made you reliant on her.”

...he was past the point of disbelief at this point. She’d hurt Shuuichi so much more, so much worse, so Kokichi didn’t think that he’d bring it up but…

...he felt so betrayed, sometimes. That someone he trusted, that had been close to him was...had done such horrible things. Even with the good intentions she’d told them…

...why didn’t people ever look for other ways? Maybe there really were some necessary evils in the world, but that didn’t mean that you couldn’t stop looking for anything to lessen them. There were always other options…

He sighed again, holding both of his guys close. “...I wish I knew the answers, so I could tell you without you having to ask her. It’s okay to hurt...but I wish there was more I could do to help ease it.”

Shuuichi shook his head, peeking at Kokichi from beneath the brim of his hat, his eyes still red, but something much softer in them now as he said, “You do. I mean, already, that is...I told you both yesterday. I...I wouldn't have survived this without what you both did… I know it’s led to a bunch of… stuff we weren’t expecting or…” Shuuichi sighed, taking his hand and placing it on his stomach, that spot in his stomach becoming more and more defined, every single day… “prepared for. But.”

Shuuichi leaned his body against Kokichi a bit. Not too hard, knowing Kokichi wasn’t steady, but still a bit. Taking comfort in his support system as he said, “I was going crazy. I was really, really losing it. It’s scary, when I think about just how...much I was unraveling, then. Falling apart… and the medicine wasn’t helping. I mean, it was making me better, but it wasn’t helping the mental part. The part of me that was going insane because of everything happening.”

“Seiko didn’t help me with that. Nao didn’t help me with that. You did. You and Kaito and Maki, just...not giving up on me. Pulling me back together, even when I was fighting you tooth and nail.” Shuuichi sighed, feeling a little calmer as he rested his head against Kokichi, “You helped a lot. You still do. Thank you...”

Kokichi’s gaze was pulled down to Shuuichi’s stomach as well, his hand now stroking down Shuuichi’s side. ...now, that was something that still didn’t feel real sometimes. Tim was his nephew, and Kokichi was committed to that now, was...more comfortable in being there for whatever he needed. But...soon enough, there would be a little, new infant in the world, his responsibility. Not his alone, of course, but...he was going to be a father. 

...it hadn’t been expected (despite their lack of precaution) and they were less prepared than even the unpreparedness all parents had but…

Kokichi was still excited. A new little Saihara…

Not worth what Shuuichi had gone through, but...a light in the darkness nonetheless. 

Giving Shuuichi a soft gaze, Kokichi glanced around before pulling his mask down for a moment, kissing the top of Shuuichi’s head. “I’m glad that we could. Shuu-chan is special to me...there’s no way we’d leave you. Then or now or anytime in the future, and even if any of us are physically gone for a while,” he said, thinking primarily of Maki, her fire too wild and driven to be contained anywhere for long, “then we’d still be thinking of you, there in spirit. And we’d always find our way back.”

Shuuichi nodded, sighing slightly. He did feel better, having talked about it all a little bit. And it was kinda nice to just sit here for a bit, watching people run around, chasing after their kids or sharing cider together. This was nice…

The three men sat there for a while, Shuuichi staring vacantly, observing in the passive way he always did, while Kaito looked around attentively, his eyes darting from spot to spot restlessly, still in his sitting, but his mind clearly restless, unable to relax quite as well. 

After some time, Kaito started pointing out costumes he liked. Or, costumes he didn’t like. That skeleton person looked scary. Why did people want to pretend to be dead people? Kimiko’s costume disturbed him, did it disturb anyone else? He liked Cali’s costume, it was cute. He wasn’t entirely certain what Timothy was supposed to be- 

“Demon bat.” Shuuichi supplied.

-but his was creepy too. Oh! Look! Look! That guy was dressed as a knight! Do you see that! That’s real armor! Wait, was he actually a knight? He looked so convincing…

Finally Kaito looked over to Kokichi and asked, “Hey, ‘Kichi? Do you all have Knights in Dicea?”

Thankfully, the calm atmosphere wasn’t one that was lulling Kokichi to sleep. He had his arms around each of his partners and was enjoying seeing people enjoy the festival, particularly enthused by the people walking back down the hill, just finishing the haunted house. Most of the time people were laughing and teasing each other, or talking calmly about the experience, but there were people every now and then, clinging onto friends’ sides or covering their face as they bemoaned whatever scare got them. A good mix. 

When Kaito started commenting on costumes, though, Kokichi joined in, having found it a favorite pastime of Harvest festivals past, and excited to share it with someone for once. 

“Not as it’s described in storybooks, no,” he started, smirking a little as he definitely recognized that armor. Did it count as a costume if Susanoo wore armor all the time anyway? He thought for a moment, filtering through his knowledge of his country. “I...guess the guardforce is kind of it, since they’re a government service and, yanno, deal with disputes or, like...terrorizing wildlife. But they don’t have a uniform, so it’s definitely not the same picture.”

Raising a bit of an eyebrow as he companionably rubbed Kaito’s back, Kokichi asked, “Are there knights in Luminary? I’m...pretty sure I’ve heard you lament that Shuu-chan’s not a squire before.”

“He still could be!”

“Kaito….” Shuuichi sighed, leaning his head back against the tree. “I don’t want to be a knight. Also, Dicea doesn’t have knights. I literally couldn’t be anymore.”

“You would have been a great knight.” Kaito sighed, the daydream still a favorite of his. “You and Maki, mounted on horses, sworn to my title… it would have been amazing.”

“Knights aren’t really part of the guardforce, in Luminary. They’re not really members of military, either, not in the contracted sense of it. They're more like…” Shuuichi tried to think of a comparison that might make sense to someone from someone who grew up in a place like Dicea, “...the private militia of the varying noble classes? Knights are essentially bodyguards trusted to a specific lord or lady. It’s considered one of the most honorable jobs you could give to only the most dedicated and trusted of commoners, and if their time as knight is served honorably? Then-”

“Their family becomes nobility themselves! Knights that serve honorably get their own titles, which grants them lands and connections, and their children end up becoming lords and ladies of those lands! Every member of nobility, if you go back far enough, has a family member in their line who got them that privilege by fulfilling their duties as a knight! And, and, knights are expected not to just protect the noble families, but the families that fall under the lands that the nobility are responsible for! So they protect areas from bandits and invasions! And!! Sometimes, in the country or the people are facing a particularly difficult danger, the noble families will all send one of their own knights to go out as a group to fight off the trouble together, which strengthens relations between the families, and the knights become brothers in arms, and-!!!!”

Shuuichi sighed, gently calling out, “Kaito… calm down. You’re getting yourself excited.”

Kaito was, his eyes lit up, clearly entirely enamored with the concept of the knighthood, enchanted at the idea of these armored heroes, being sent off to bring peace to the land… and Shuuichi felt bad, genuinely, when Kaito deflated slightly as Shuuichi explained, “It’s an almost dead tradition. Making a knight requires a member of nobility to be willing to give up a portion of their lands and treasures to that person someday, and it’s fallen out of favor to do that. There are very, very few knights left these days…”

“Yeah...but! But! I was ready to knight you and Maki! Even if you didn’t go through squire training, that was fine! I talked to Byakuya about it, once, ya know? Putting aside land for you two, if you really wanted to do it!? He…” Kaito’s grin faltered a little, “He said he would have thought about it! So… yeah. I think you two would have made great knights.”

Shuuichi gave Kaito a soft smile. “Thanks, Kaito. I’m sure it would have been an incredible opportunity. But it’s fine that it didn’t happen.”

Kokichi hummed softly, foregoing people watching to really listen to his partners talk, though it was just as fulfilling when Kaito got hyped up talking about what sounded like something he’d thought about a lot back home. He smiled softly, always loving his husband’s passion. 

And with the point Shuuichi brought up along with what he had been told about Luminary… He could see why it went out of fashion. Knighthood...actually sounded like a good way to spread power and resources to more people but...well. From what it sounded like, most people who currently had power in resources wanted to keep as much as they could to themselves, not spread it. 

...still, it was a nice gesture, even if Kokichi doubted Kaito would’ve been able to make it a reality. 

Resting his head on Kaito’s arm, making a bit of a train with the three of them, Kokichi nuzzled his husband affectionately. “It sounds pretty amazing, honestly. I’ve read stories about knights and their adventures, but hearing how they worked in practice… Being made to prove that you would and could protect the people relying on you before being given the power to do so… I bet it inspired a lot of faith and respect.”

Thinking a little more, Kokichi’s eyebrows drew in, and he made a low little hum. “But… Well, Maki-chan is my personal bodyguard, and I’m an heir so… By Luminary terms, doesn’t that mean she’s my knight?”

Shuuichi didn’t think it did, but Kaito’s eyes widened, a look of bright, ecstatic delight on his face as he said, “Oh my god! Is Maki a knight!?”

“Kokichi doesn’t have any land or treasure to promise her.” Shuuichi whispered quietly, knowing Kokichi had mostly been joking, but also knowing how quickly and seriously Kaito could get sold on an idea. “So, no, Kaito, she’s not a knight.”

“But, but, okay, maybe not, like, entirely a knight, but still! She’s the security officer of a prince! Ouma’s have…” Kaito frowned. “A title? Don’t they? They’re...nobility?”

Shuuichi didn’t answer. He wasn’t actually certain, one way or another, what the Ouma family actually was. Though, it made him chuckle, the more and more he realized that the Ouma family didn’t fit the mold of royalty as Luminary understood it. 

It made him chuckle for a mean reason.

If Princess-Consort Sayaka had realized they were sending her second son to marry into a family with so few resources? Into a family that literally didn’t have any more money than the literal poorest of its citizens? Ooooh, how that would have hurt her pride. That Kaito hadn’t married into wealth or power? Heh… Shuuichi bet she never realized. But wow. He wished she had. He wondered with some amusement at how she would have expressed her absolute fury. To have so thoroughly misunderstood the situation.

Heh. 

Shuuichi enjoyed the daydream.

That was true. Other than her paycheck and job experience, the best thing Kokichi could offer Maki was an employer’s recommendation. Which did have some sway, considering that her job was pretty high profile. But...Kokichi didn’t own any land, and, again, other than her paycheck, he didn’t have much else with monetary value to offer her.

Even still, Kokichi didn’t really...get nobility, as his friends talked about it. It just...didn’t make any sense to him, how power and enough money to baffle him would be passed down just because someone was related to you. There were family heirlooms, of course, but...mostly, he heard about them being secret family recipes, or a cool pot someone’s great-great-etc grandparent had made and was proud of. 

To make someone responsible for other people’s well-beings just because they were born into a certain family… That’s why he thought it was so dumb how the leaders often chose their heirs in infancy. Babies barely had personalities, let alone the understanding and willingness to sacrifice to be responsible for others. 

So, not really getting that, not truly understanding what titles and responsibility meant in Luminary, Kokichi just sighed, his brow furrowing as he slowly said, “It’s...complicated.”

“People call Aiichi the leader and me the heir but it’s...more like a job description,” he tried to explain regardless. “The Ouma name...it’s not a family. It’s a promise. A promise made over five hundred years ago by the first Ouma to unite the communities that were living in what we now call Dicea, to protect and look after all those people no matter what. People are stronger together than they are apart, and when they cooperate...it’s so much more than the sum of their parts. To use the name Ouma is to invoke that promise. That’s why if you don’t uphold that responsibility to the Dicean people, you’re not an Ouma. It’s why leaders and heirs can be replaced.”

Scratching the side of his cheek, Kokichi shrugged a little, looking between his lovers. “I don’t...totally understand it myself. But...I guess that there’s just such a track record now, that it works the other way. If you call yourself an Ouma, then you must be that kind of person. And with that assumption, people feel safe in trusting us and looking up to us. It still feels risky to me, and like I have a lot to live up to...like I still have to prove myself every day to be worthy of the name, but...to be honest, it might just be because I only exist in this tiny span of time. I don’t have the perspective of the hundreds of years behind us.”

“Do any of us?” Kaito mused, playing with some of the grass, trying to sit cross legged in his uncomfortably short robe and thank goodness for the leggings, really, because otherwise his robe riding so high against his thighs might have bordered somewhere on the obscene or indecent. “Sometimes I wonder if any of us are really, like...complete people. Me, you, Shuuichi, Maki...none of us made any decisions that led us to being who we are. We’re just, like, pieces of some, like...bigger thing. Like…” 

Kaito frowned. Trying to express this idea that he had been fussing around in his head since Kokichi’s meltdown at the memorial. Since his conversation with Hideki. Since, he suspected, his latest Atuan ritual, though he wasn’t sure how to quantify that experience yet.

“...like we’re just the connecting threads of bigger fabrics, stitching them together? Or, no, like...like we’re the waste of a bigger beast left behind-”

“Did you just call us pieces of shit?” Shuuichi mumbled.

“-or, no, no, that’s not, like...pieces, I don’t know. I feel sometimes like a piece of something else. And I can fight and resist and try to escape it all I want, but I’m still bound by that bigger piece, and it’s ultimately up to it, what I am… or…”

Kaito huffed, running his hands behind his neck, massaging the muscles, “I don’t know. But, like, for you and the Ouma name? Maybe it’s better to just think of the Ouma lineage as being, like...this thing that designed you to expand itself a little. Ya know? Like you're some smaller piece of a larger person, and that person is actually what made Dicea work. Or...shoot, I’m confusing myself…”

“Kaito, I feel like you’re saying something obvious.” Shuuichi said, giving Kaito a slightly unimpressed look. “If you’re saying who we are is largely dictated by outside, societal, historical influence, than...yeah. Duh.”

Kokichi looked over to Kaito curiously, immediately what he was saying not really what Kokichi was talking about, but...interesting all the same. Kokichi never really thought he felt incomplete. Lacking, inappropriate, superfluous...sure. But he was always himself, no matter the case of him considering that good or bad. 

...but he did understand being a part of something bigger. You could be you, but also a part of something else. On his better days, and more often these ones, being a part of Dicea. Being a part of his family. Things that he was bound to, partly by his own choices, but also...because they were society, and you could leave the country or try to live off the grid but...you grew up in it, so it was a part of you. 

“...largely, but there are inherent things,” Kokichi hummed, adding onto Shuuichi’s distillation. “Personally, I don’t believe it was designed but...that’s just my own belief.” He offered a compromising smile to his husband, not wanting in the slightest to get in a religious debate. “How we were raised, what society we grew up in, the people around us...those are all huge in influencing who we become, and that never stops. People never stop changing, and are always being influenced by what’s around. But...I do think there are...core things about a person. They can be repressed or rebelled against, embraced or manipulated, but… I mean, how else would society ever change if there weren’t slightly different perspectives, even among siblings. Every person sees something different in the same environments.”

“And people influence their environments in turn too,” he hummed, nodding his head once. “Sometimes physically changing things, the advancements of technology and such, but also just...inspiring other people to change, or at least to consider things differently than they had before. Just by the fact things change at all, I think there are personal things that make up who you are too.”

A year ago Kaito would have probably not only agreed with Kokichi, but enthusiastically cheered on that idea. Would have used his own influence on all of his sidekicks as the prime example of it. Would have argued that Maki and Shuich, in a few years, when their contracts were over, would be free to prove the world wrong as well, and be anyone they wanted to be! With all the influence in the world at their fingertips!!!

...but this year had been a hard one, when it came to choices. And Kaito was really struggling with himself as an identity outside of what other people marked him to be, and he could only kinda watch helplessly as it felt like Maki and Shuuichi fell into roles the universe had handpicked for them (or, well...the roles Kaito and his own mistakes had forced them into.)-

(Heh. Really, Kaito?)

(You have no choices in life, but also your choices took away all your friends choices?)

(Boy, did Kaito love his inherently contradicting belief systems.)

-and, well, yeah…

It was kind of tough to not feel helpless to fate, or destiny, or pre-designated roles of society (whatever you wanted to call it), after a year like this. Hard to feel like Kaito really could have changed any of it. Really could have been anyone else.

But, well… again. Kaito recognized he had felt differently about it a year ago. He’d probably feel differently about it a year from now. Just sludging through the process of his philosophy on life changing over time as his personal circumstances changed. Maybe, five years from now, he’d find something naive and charming in the idea that his twenty-three year old self had really believed in the idea of concrete, unchangeable fate.

Kaito supposed he’d find out some day.

That was all musings inside of his head though. After a moment, aloud, he said, “There’s probably something to that idea, yeah. I mean...I guess any of us could just decide any day to, I don’t know, entirely reinvent ourselves. Nothing stopping us.”

“I think what Kokichi was saying is that we make personal decisions in how we perceive the circumstances we’re born into, and because of that, we affect the world around us in small, different ways based on those perspectives.” Shuuichi said, not even certain if Kaito needed the clarification. More just...saying it to have something to say. Wanting to be involved in the conversation, even if he really didn’t care if it was fate or not that had led him to being who he was. Society had picked a role for Shuuichi, who had been given a chance to resist it, and had chosen not too. Then, the choices in the last year he had felt like he had control over had sent him spiraling and barely able to hold onto literally the fabric of his reality. So…

Yeah. Outside choices, personal choices? Who cared. Shuuichi was just trying to make it to tomorrow, most days. 

“And I agree with that concept of, like, core personality traits that you would have gotten regardless. Like… I wonder if you two had been born into the opposite families? Kokichi, you were born the second Luminary son, and Kaito, you were the Dicean heir? Like...I doubt it would have just led to a version of Kokichi that looks like you, right?” Shuuichi mused, smirking at Kaito, who blinked at that thought. “Kokichi’s personality entirely intact, but just way taller and with red hair?”

“...awwww, a little Kokichi playing in Atua’s temple.” Kaito coo’d, imagining Kokichi in his own childhood, laughing lightly at the image. “Cute.”

Kokichi hummed quietly, agreeing with the summation Shuuichi had made of his point. With the knowledge he now had of the rampant brainwashing in Luminary, he didn’t feel confident thinking it on an ‘always/never’ sort of scale but...even when you had no choices from your environment...there was always something you could choose.

...and sometimes that was a bad thing. The sort of thinking that had led Kokichi into considering the choice of suicide. If everything else had turned everything horrible...there was always that last choice. Good thing he’d never gotten around to completing it. 

Sighing softly, silently affirming that he was happy to be alive, Kokichi raised a bit of an eyebrow at the scenario Shuuichi posed, before he snorted. There were way more qualifications...but he could tell Shuuichi was trying for something simple and...light. 

Snickering a bit, Kokichi nuzzled at Kaito’s shoulder. “And a tiny, purple-haired Kai-chan… With your stamina, I bet you would’ve driven everyone in the castle crazy, trying to chase you around.”

Kaito snickered, musing, “Man, I can’t even imagine what a child me would have been like without, like, Atua as a focus. What would I have fixated on? I’d have definitely fixated on something, my imagination would have made me. Hmmm… people definitely wouldn’t be calling me the ‘Light of Dicea’, either way.” Kaito snorted, nudging his husband playfully, “I had such a temper problem, as a kid. Like, god, the tantrums. I had one nanny talk to me years later, saying how she used to worry that I’d just, like, literally break my hands, accidentally hitting walls just fighting air.”

“You weren’t as bad as all that.“ Shuuichi mused, “I only ever saw you do that a few times, and you’d always run to the temple to do it.”

“Sure, but that was when I was ten. Before that, it was a real problem for awhile. Apparently I was a fucking terror at five. I’d have definitely lost the name Ouma early.” Kaito chuckled, shaking his head a little. He felt a little bad about how much trouble he had given his caretakers, thinking back on it, but, well...ya gotta forgive yourself for being a child once. He hadn’t known any better.

“But, man, Kokichi, I bet my castle would have loved you.” Kaito said, happy to indulge in this daydream. “A sweet, doe-eyed prince who was intellegent as all fuck? God, my family would have adored you. And the staff would have probably been relieved not to have another one of my father around.”

Kokichi rolled his eyes a bit, still amused at the nickname people had decided to give him, but...this wasn’t the first time Kaito had talked about his temper as a child, or the first time anyone else had either. Sure, Kaito had a bit of an anger problem now, and stuff like that tended to be untamed in childhood, but still… It was hard for him to imagine. 

“I dunno… One of our past leaders, Queen Lydie...whenever you find stuff that talks about her personally, and not what happened under her leadership, apparently she was a ball of ‘fight me’ at all times,” Kokichi chuckled. “I’d like to think you would’ve channeled that anger into positivity, but maybe I’m a little too biased.”

And Kaito was absolutely biased. If an outside assassination hadn’t gotten him, Kokichi had a feeling Byakuya, and maybe even Kaede wouldn’t be so fond of him in Kaito’s place. 

...but he couldn’t say that to Kaito. 

“Suuuuuuure,” he drawled, “they would’ve loved having a little brat who loved to make things confusing or startling. If people over here got fed up with my pranks, I can’t imagine they’d be more well-received in Luminary.”

“I mean, you wouldn’t have done those things in Luminary.” Kaito guessed, because obviously Tengan would have stopped him.

…

“...or, well…” Kaito suddenly found himself tripping over the daydeam, finding a part of it he really, really didn’t like. Tengan with full, total access to someone like Kokichi? Small and pretty and weak with just the most beautiful, round purple eyes… maybe Kokichi would have handled it better. Maybe his husband wouldn’t have gotten turned around all the time by the mind-games, wouldn’t have been tricked all the time. Maybe Byakuya could have viewed Kokichi as an equal, someone he could have put his trust in, and wouldn’t have let Tengan do all the things he did instead, because Kokichi was worth more than a dog…

...Kaito was glad they’d never have to find out. Reaching out to put a protective arm around Kokichi’s shoulder, pulling him in closer to his side, Kaito said, suddenly, “We’re going to be really careful, with the baby. Right?”

“Hmmm?” Shuuichi asked, looking over in confusion. “What do you mean?”

Kaito shrugged. Just suddenly looking tense. “I mean...about who we let watch him and stuff? Who's going to tutor him and watch him when we’re all on a date and who we’re going to let protect him? I...I don’t know how you go about picking people for stuff like that. I don’t even know anyone who knows anyone here...I mean, well, obviously you, babe, but like who could recommend trusted tutors and stuff like that...I just don’t want to mess that up. It’s important.”

Kokichi raised an eyebrow at that, just...baffled, that in this complete fantasy without those extra factors that made things super depressing, that Kaito would assume Kokichi wouldn’t be a mirror of how he’d grown up with such confidence. 

...but maybe Kaito had added in one of those depressing factors. 

Kokichi leaned into Kaito’s hold, but...got confused all over again at what he brought up. “Um…” Kokichi scratched his cheek a bit. “I mean...I wasn’t really thinking that we’d go out looking for people to hire? They could go to school? And I know my dad would totally be up for watching our kid when we’re all busy… And the guardforce protects everyone? I mean...I have a bodyguard because of...of my health stuff, and the Remnants, but...it’s kind of weird to hire a bodyguard for a kid, right?”

Frowning at himself, Kokichi rested more fully against Kaito, still holding Shuuichi close. “I mean...I kinda get it. I don’t want just...strangers looking after our kid. But...we know a lot of people that would be willing to help out, and, yanno, school’s school. It’s a good experience, and I trust the way teachers are vetted and held accountable for looking after kids.”

“Yeah, Kaito. Besides, between the three of us, and let’s be honest, Maki...we have more than enough help, Kaito. We’re not exactly gonna be struggling to take care of one infant.” Shuchi said, having been thinking about this a bit himself.

Kaito nodded, but just insisted, “You’re right. You’re both right. I just...I just want us all to be on the same page on that. That we don’t just leave our kid with...like, we know, ya know? What our kids days look like. I’ve had this talk with Tim too, a few times. Our kids needs to tell us if anyone does or says anything weird to them. We can’t teach them that it’s okay to just trust any adult who’s in charge of them.”

Shuuichi had been there for one of those talks with Timothy, and he didn’t necessarily disagree with Kaito, though he thought this was a dark conversation for the situation. So he just said, “We’ll teach them caution, of course. You don’t have to worry Kaito. It’s going to be fine.”

“Course!” Kokichi chirped, his gut instinct being that, of course not, why would you ever teach a child to blindly trust anyone? But...he knew why. So...he would just do his best to soothe Kaito’s worries. “It’s kinda hard to explain critical thought to a kid, but… Like Shuu-chan say--we’ll teach them caution. Pay attention when they say they’re feeling uncomfortable or scared, or even just weirded out or confused… Be the kind of people they can trust to let know about that kind of stuff.”

Kokichi’s smile softened a bit, lifting his arm so he could press his nose affectionately to Shuuichi’s head before he relaxed back against Kaito. “...personally...I wanna be really present in our kid’s life. I know that my responsibilities require serious attention...but my father isn’t going anywhere, so...I can afford to take things easier. I wanna be there for our kid. That might end up with the effect of them getting sick of me being around all the time,” he laughed softly, “But...it’s what I want.”

“...making sure they always feel loved and that they have people they can trust… Knowing that people believe in them… I don’t want our kid to have any doubts like that…”

Kokichi’s voice had gone soft as his gaze went out into the distance, now no longer trying to reassure Kaito, but just...trying to reassure himself. Wanting to do better for Baby Saihara than what had been done for him. 

Kaito looked down at Kokichi, before saying, “He won’t! Have any doubts, I mean! We’re about to love the shit out of this kid!!”

“And, between the three of us? How can he not end up amazing!? He’s gonna be intelligent, and charming, and well dressed!! Oh, and strong! I’ll make certain of it!!!”

“Kaito, shush. People are looking.” Shuuichi said quietly, lowering his hat and looking nervously around as people glanced over to the shouting prince, most just looking startled. 

“And I’m gonna teach him how to ride horses! And to dance! And Maki will teach him all sorts of weapons, and Kokichi, you can teach him how to run and climb, and Shuuichi!! ...maybe don’t teach him how to use tasers!”

“Why not? Tasers are great.”

“Okay, but like, only a little tasers! Minimal tasers! Focus on like detective stuff instead, that’d be cooler!!”

Kokichi could only laugh as Kaito got all hyped up again, making bold claims about their child’s future. Naturally, Kokichi wanted their kid to have the opportunities to do anything they wanted, but it was important to give them the opportunity to rest too. Like in all things, it’d be a balancing act. 

“We’re gonna end up with a child far more skilled and cleverer than all of us, huh,” Kokichi snickered. “Guess that’s the goal in being a parent. Hope they don’t start out-smarting us for a few years, at least--I wanna be open with them, but there’s some stuff kids shouldn’t know until they’re older.”

“...what do you think they’re gonna look like?” It was an entirely idle question. They didn’t know the baby’s sex, or even who its parents were for sure, but...he couldn’t lie, the thought had come up every now and then when he found himself thinking about baby Saihara. “It’s kind of intimidating, being a parent, but...I’m really excited to meet them.”

“I want him to look like you and Shuuichi”/”I think it’d be nice if they had Kaito’s hair.”

Shuuichi and Kaito looked at each other, slightly startled, before Kaito grinned and Shuuichi laughed lightly. “I guess we do appreciate each others looks, huh…”

“Awww, you appreciate my hair?” Kaito asked, pulling down a lock of his hair, looking at it slightly with a grin as he said, “I’ve always worried my hairs too obnoxious. I like your blue better. It’s so silky!”

“Kokichi’s shade of purple is nice too...if she ends up being a her, and gets most of Kokichi’s looks? You have to admit, she’d be incredibly pretty. Small and waifish…” Shuuichi said, really imagining a female Kokichi more than anything.

“Oh, oh, but your golden eyes Shuuichi! Gold is such a beautiful color for eyes. All bright and bold! ...though, our kid might not end up looking like any of us...I mean, Byakuya has blond hair, and neither of my parents have that. Kaede too, actually. Neither of her parents were blond. It happens like that, sometimes.”

Kaito picked some more grass out of the ground, and admitted, “I kinda hope our kid ends up tall, like me, actually. Is that shallow?”

Kokichi giggled along with his lovers, cooing a bit as Kaito fussed with his hair. “I like Kai-chan’s hair too! It’s bright and fun! Though, Shuu-chan’s is pretty too, like dusk in the winter.”

When Kokichi idly thought about what baby Saihara could look like...he imagined all sorts of things, really. With the possibility of them having three parents, that was a lot of genes to choose from. Kaito’s fiery red, Shuuichi’s cool blue, the blonde on Kaito’s side, as he pointed out, or the black from Kokichi’s. And who even knew what extra from Shuuichi’s side that they didn’t know about.

Heaving a dramatic sigh, Kokichi groaned, “Noooo… Being tall can be really helpful for stuff, but you can bet I’ll cry when they get taller than me. Considering both your heights, I don’t think the chances are high for another member in the tiny squad. No, our kid is destined for giant-hood…”

A little laugh. “Imagine that, if baby Saihara grows up all tall, but knows how to sneak up on people like Maki-chan taught Tim. How talented~”

“Oh man, I just realized...with itty bitty Shuuichi and Tim both learning Maki’s sneak stuff...shit. Our kids are going to be impossible to catch sneaking out when they’re teens.” Kaito muttered, suddenly looking grave. He then turned and gave Kokichi a stern look. “No teaching either of them how to pick locks till they’re eighteen!”

“I’d be shocked if Maki hasn’t already taught Tim how to pick locks.” Shuuichi mused. “They’re both going to run circles around us… do you think Tim and our baby will be close? The age gap is pretty wide, but they are technically siblings. It’d be nice to know they were looking out for each other…”

“Timothy’s a protector. I’m sure he’ll look out for his baby sibling. I have faith in the kid.” Kaito said, no doubt in his voice. Then he grinned, a far away look in his eyes. “I’ve got two kids...and Tim’s already got signs of being a good ass person when he grows up. A person with issues.” Kaito admitted with a shrug, “But, ya know...loyal. Steadfast. Strong. I think Tim’s going to be a good eldest son…” Kaito said. Something bordering on pride in his tone.

Kokichi scoffed a bit. “If they’re determined enough, nothing we do will deter them from sneaking out. And...I’d hope by then we teach them how to be safe enough that it’ll be fine to. But, sure. No lock-picking lessons until they’re eighteen.”

Kokichi thought that they’d be good siblings too but...his own experience growing up with kids way older than him didn’t exactly…

“...I think Tim’s gonna be a good big brother too,” Kokichi softly hummed. “It’s hard when there’s an age gap like that...when the elder is getting responsibilities and coming into their own while the younger is...like, learning to walk. Learning what everything is. You get busy...don’t have as much time… But the care is always there. They’ll look after each other, I know it.” 

“I just hope Tim’s friendship with Cali and Kimiko will last. I know I’m, like, super biased, but I really think having, mmmmm, two extremely close childhood friends is ideal for a kid growing up.” Kaito said, grinning at Shuuichi, who smiled fondly back at him.

“It does help, doesn’t it?” Shuuichi said, before scoffing as he said, “Even if your friends are both crazy jocks determined to make you do push-ups.”

“We had to keep you fit, Shuuichi! The friends who stay together, train together!!” Kaito insisted, before chuckling, “And hey, there’s an advantage right there! Kimiko and Cali are both kind of a handful, but they really put their all into our morning training.”

Shuuichi nodded, before stretching a bit. This had been nice, but… “You said Maki and Tim went to a hacky sack race? Any idea when they were supposed to come back?”

“I mean, how long have we been sitting here?” Kaito wondered, looking down at his watch, before saying, “Should be soon, I’d think. How’s everyone feeling?”

Kokichi looked between Kaito and Shuuichi just...happy. Genuinely happy and adoring over the deep friendship they had, no longer feeling that sinking envy over it. Knowing that they had each other and Maki over all these years...it made him want to smile, and kept his chest cozy and warm. It was obvious how much Tim cared about Cali and Kimiko, and thinking that one day that care would blossom into a similarly deep friendship that spanned decades… It made Kokichi happy too, and it was one of the best things he could hope for for his nephew. 

Perking up a bit when Shuuichi reminded that Maki and Tim should...probably be heading back around now, Kokichi took a breath and gave Kaito a grin and a thumbs up. “Much better! Really, I did only need a bit. Totally up for whatever we wanna do next!”

Which...might be more of the games on the candy run? Or checking in on the carving competition, seeing what things looked like past the half-way mark now. Or seeing what sort of performance was going on now… Plenty to choose from.

And the fun thing was, they didn’t really have to choose.

It was still pretty early in the day when Maki and Tim finally came back, Tim looking dirtier than when he had left, he and Cali apparently colliding together during the race and falling into the dirt. Still, Tim looked in good spirits, and Maki had told them that they were planning to meet up again with Cali and Kimiko at the pumpkin carvings again later.

But before that? The family walked around the festival, stopping and watching a performance on an outdoor stage play for awhile, telling the story of some wandering pumpkin guy. Than, Kaito got heckled by some puppets in a small puppet show by the path as they were on their way to look at some art exhibits, and as Maki and Shuuichi dragged Kaito away from his shouting match with the snickering puppet, they saw an exhibit area, where people were putting up and still drawing out paintings, statues, flower arrangements.

People kept coming up to feed Kokichi, and often Shuuichi as well. Timothy and Maki watched carefully when this happened, and at one point Timothy threw a cup at someone’s head, one poor older gentleman not having picked up Shuuichi’s increasing look of panic when he happened to corner him away from the group, trying to insist Shuuichi had to try some of his pineapple roast.

Kaito had bowed low in apology for Timothy’s rudeness and Maki had pinched his ear but she hadn’t cut him for it, and as far as Timothy was concerned that meant she probably wasn’t all that displeased by it.

Than they had stopped by the games again, where Kaito and Maki got really, really competitive over this ring tossing game? Like, really competitive. It got dumb. Eventually Shuuichi, Kokichi and Tim had to go play other games and leave them too it, and by the time they came back, Maki was helping Kaito bandage a cut on his cheek, which may have come before or after the fist-sized bruise on her shoulder. 

Neither of them admitted who had ultimately won out in the end.

Eventually they found the girls again, and they looked at the pumpkin carvings a bit, but it was clear they weren’t quite ready yet, so the group agreed to go do a few more things before coming back to see the pumpkins lit up. And it was at that point Kaito brought up the orchard rides.

...not everyone had been as enthused.

“What!? Come on, it’ll be fun!” Kaito insisted, as Maki, Shuuichi and Tim all gave him equally disinterested looks.

“Isn’t that just, like, a slow ride through a field?” Maki asked.

“Isn’t that just something couples do to make googly eyes at each other?” Shuuichi said, frowning.

“So! We’re a couple! Come make googly eyes with me!”

“...eh.” Shuuichi sighed. 

“Can we go to the rock climbing wall?” Tim asked, heading over to tug on Shuuichi’s sleeve as he said, “Uncle Shuuichi, wanna see how quickly I can climb the wall?”

“Oh, come on!... alright, well, what if just me and Kokichi did it? ‘Kichi, babe? You wanna do the orchard ride with me?” Kaito asked, giving his husband an earnest grin.

While going through the haunted house tour and sitting under the tree had given Kokichi a damn good chunk of time to digest, almost the moment they got closer to the center of town people flocked to him, ready with plates of still warm (if applicable) or fresh-seeming food like they’d somehow timed the cooking just for his activities. It was magical, he swore. And before long, he was filled right back up, happy for the distraction of more games. 

...but just because he was stuffed didn’t mean he would mind a drink. 

Kokichi smiled under Kaito’s attention, and he turned sheepish to Maki. “...I’ve always wanted to go see the orchards. The ride is just to get out there, but there are a bunch of cider tastings and you can walk through some of the fruit trees… It’s really safe…?”

With a bit of a hopeful look, Kokichi grasped onto the edges of his cloak. “...the rides run every half hour or so, so...we’ll be back in an hour and a half, no detours?”

“...” Maki narrowed her eyes. “You’ll stay on the path, and you won’t leave Kaito’s side?”

Kokichi nodded firmly. “Cross my heart and sworn on my name Kokichi Ouma. I’m not gonna leave Kai-chan’s side, and we’re gonna stay where people can see us. We’re gonna go on the ride, maybe taste a cider, look at the orchard, then come right back, all in an hour and a half. Promise.”

“...” Maki twitched a little. This day was almost done. They had almost gotten through one trip without her failing to protect him...but…

...her protection was meant to give him freedom, not take it away. She had told him that once. She had meant it too.

Ugh. She was too soft. 

“Kaito?” Maki sighed, taking off her backpack and opening it up for him, showing him what was inside. “Okay, so, if Kokichi starts to seize up, or gets a sudden fever, or collapses, swip his tongue with the swab in this jar.” she said, pointing to the lid that was white.

“Okay.” Kaito said, listening intently. 

“Now, whatever color the swab turns? Will correspond with the color of the lid of the jar. If the swab doesn’t turn any color, or turns into a color you don’t recognize, don’t feed him any of this, it could do just as much damage as doing nothing. If it does turn a color, make certain to force the whole contents of it down his throat. His body will fight you on instinct, but it’ll save him. Understand?” She said, closing up the backpack and passing it to him.

Kaito nodded, taking it and putting it on his back. “Yep. Thanks, Maki… but it’s gonna be fine. Everything will be fine! We’ll be back in an hour and half, no problem!” Kaito said, grinning at her. “And if we’re late? You and Shuuichi can do your thing! I know you’ll find us!”

Maki rolled her eyes, but sighed. “Fine. Alright, well, just don’t be stupid. Have fun. Don’t make me kill you.”

“Got it!” Kaito agreed.

Kokichi listened to Maki’s explanation of...antidotes as well, knowing that they weren’t as worried about Kaito being poisoned, but...it was still good stuff to know, just in case. Being prepared for something they thought was unlikely. And so...no one would be poisoned again. 

And when Maki finally gave her okay… Kokichi hopped in place, beaming at his friend and, knowing that they were in public and she wouldn’t appreciate it, just hugged himself fiercely, trying to convey his thanks without pushing her physical boundary. “Thank you!! And you won’t have to worry--we’ll be safe and on time and it’ll be okay.”

Giggling, Kokichi clutched Kaito’s arm. “Let’s go to the ride drop off!”

As Kaito and Kokichi headed to the drop off spot, Kaito adjusting the straps of the backpack to fit his broader shoulders, taking Kokichi’s hand, he said, “I hope that, uh… I know Maki wasn’t trying to freak you out. She’s just trying to be thorough. Are you good?” Kaito asked, giving his husband a small concerned look as they waited in line, the rides coming up and the small groups of, usually, two or three allowed onto the back wagon, cushioned by a layer of hay. 

Kokichi side-eyed Kaito a bit, though he had a light air around him. “I’m good. She wants to make sure that I’m healthy and safe, and because of those things, able to be happy. I eat a lot during Harvest, and I’ve had things slipped into my food before. Preparing for that is just…”

He sighed, a few clouds entering his expression. He wanted to trust his people, but blindly expecting everything to always be okay was naive and dangerous. “It’s smart, and I appreciate her preparing for it. It’s what I hired her for.”

Kaito nodded, relieved. Considering his husband sometimes had a habit of… self destructing? When he, uh, was introduced to morals that contradicted his ideals of the world? Kaito just wanted to check in. Kokichi had seemed okay, but honestly, Kaito always got a little tense and nervous these days, when he or Maki and Shuuichi brought up some of the, well… 

He had gotten into a habit of just calling any viewpoint on the world that was dark or self-centered or self-serving as ‘Luminary’ ways of thinking. And Kaito got nervous, when they talked ‘Luminary’ around Kokichi. He was, of course, certain his husband could handle anything! 

But, ya know...sometimes he didn’t. And Kaito just wanted to catch those moments before they became dangerous.

Kaito grinned, taking Kokichi’s hand as they were the next in line, watching the horse and wagon that would take them down to the orchards approach as he said, “I need to tell Maki that she’s basically a knight soon! I think she’ll get a kick out of it.”

Kokichi squeezed his husband’s hand, mood picking up as the wagon they were going to take came closer and closer, another dream of his about to come true. He could probably go visit the orchards any time he wanted now, but...like with the haunted house and the game stalls and the maze, the trip out to the orchard was very much a staple of the festival, and one Kokichi had never gotten to do. 

And now...he could do anything. 

Giggling lightly, Kokichi grinned up at Kaito. “I think we’d get an amused huff or two. That’s practically a chortle in Maki-chan-speak.”

When it was their turn, Kokichi accepted help up into the wagon, settling himself on the hay as he giggled to himself, almost giddy.

“Hey, thanks man.” Kaito said to the driver, who gave him a good-natured nod, before heading back onto the front of the wagon, cracking the reins lightly to push his horse forward. The hay was stacked high at the backside of the wagon, to give the illusion of privacy as the wagon started to move, and Kaito sighed as he sat down next to Kokichi. “I’m gonna take these heels off for a bit. Phew. I don’t know how anyone does this all day.”

Taking off his shoes, putting them aside for a moment, Kaito shuffled forward, letting his legs dangle off the back of the wagon, looking up at the fading sky. It’d be dark in a few hours, and the colors in the sky reflected that, some of that blue from the middle of the day easing into a chilled, icy gray. It was pretty...and cold. 

Kaito, wanting to look at the sky a bit anyway, laid back on the wagon, putting his arms over his stomach, letting himself relax a bit as he said, “So? Your first festival where the only restriction is Maki giving us a hard time every now and again about being safe. Are you having fun?” Kaito asked, glancing over at his husband. “Have we gotten to most of the stuff you wanted to do today?”

“Tooooold you. Though, to be honest, I thought you would’ve switched shoes a while ago. Even running in that fire room in the tour? My Kai-chan is very impressive,” Kokichi praised, snuggling to Kaito’s side, even as he laid down. And while he had a feeling the jacket and leggings had a lot to do with it, Kaito had been handling the chill in the air well too. Still, he was glad he’d insisted on warmer clothes from the get-go.

Kokichi looked down at Kaito adoringly before looking back up, enjoying watching the town go by at a clip, the novelty of the rumble of the cart. “Are you kidding? I’m having a blast! This might be the most fun I’ve had at a festival...ever, maybe?”

“Getting to experience more than just a tiny bit of it...being one of the people walking around having fun instead of watching them…” Kokichi rubbed Kaito’s arm a bit, sating his want to be holding his hand while Kaito had them resting on his stomach. “I’m definitely looking forward to seeing the end of the carving contest--that person making the mandala looks like it’s gonna look incredible all lit up--but...yeah. After this...that’s everything I can think of that I’ve ever been disappointed in missing.”

“And it’ll be all different next year, not to mention every other festival…” Kokichi laughed softly, his freedom sparking a light in him that did more for his face than any contour or eyeshadow palette Denji could ever put on him. “Maki-chan keeping us safe just makes me happy, Kai-chan. All this is just...amazing.”

Kaito watched Kokichi’s face light up, that honest, naked joy on his face. The way his eyelashes caught in the light of the sun, that cute little wide smile, the way his eyes, so large and expressive, curved upwards, Kokichi smiling with the whole of his expression.

“...I’ll never understand how anyone ever denied you anything,” Kaito confessed, saying aloud a thought he’d had several times since he met Kokichi. “You would have had me helpless, growing up. One bright, happy smile like that? I’d have been addicted to seeing it. Everyone in the castle's resolve must be a thousand times stronger than mine. You’d have had me wrapped around your little finger.”

Kokichi snorted, holding onto Kaito’s arm for a moment. And just like that, his smile dimmed, saddened by the past. “...you’ve seen me after a heart-attack, but… You know how you say your temper was way worse as a kid?”

“...my health was way worse.” Kokichi sighed, leaning back into the hay to lie down next to Kaito. “I couldn’t breathe by myself after I was born--there was this whole big, complicated machine meant to breathe for me. I had to use it for a whole year… And after that… I still barely did anything. All slow and inattentive because I barely had enough energy to be awake. And then when I did start having a little more energy, and these are years apart...sometimes I’d just drop to the ground while running, not knowing my limit and blowing past it, landing me months of bedrest.”

“Seeing all that… I think it was more important for a lot of people to not see me in unbearable pain than it was to see me smile. And...I can’t blame them for that. If people had just let me do whatever I tried…”

Kokichi held Kaito’s arm close. “...I’d be dead. That doesn’t excuse everything that happened, but...I’m happy to be alive. I’m glad they gave me the chance to be alive now.”

“Oh...huh.” Kaito said, another piece of his husband's milk puzzle slotted into place, another part of his history that gave new clarity to Kaito. He watched the clouds lazily float across the sky, trying to imagine this other version of his Kokichi. 

Daydreams of Kokichi running around with him as a kid turned into a Kokichi with tired, distant eyes, not really focusing on anything as he sat wherever he was placed. A small body too thin on top of that, hair that looked washed out when framing skin that wasn’t touched enough by the sun.

Kaito’s stomach turned uneasily. He closed his eyes and sighed.

Okay.

Things made a little more sense.

There was still a part of Kaito that didn’t trust the staff at the castle. But that feeling eased away little by little, the more he got to know Kokichi. Got to genuinely understand the situation. Those feelings weren’t exactly being replaced with fondness or affection for the people there, but well...that constant ‘enemy’ and ‘danger’ feeling was ebbing away. 

That was nice. 

It was nice to relax a little bit.

Opening his eyes again, the clouds were still there, and Kaito lazily watched them. 

After awhile, he said, “I like getting to know you better, Kokichi. But I’ll be happy when I actually do. There’s so much about you that I don’t understand yet.”

There were parts of Kokichi’s childhood that he didn’t mind talking about, times when he was a terror to the castle, or when he ran around with the older kids. About studying and learning and reading letter after letter, about sneaking over the walls and learning about his city, bugging strangers for their life stories and going to watch performances and exploring wherever his feet took him. 

And there were things he didn’t like to talk about much. The days, months, years, that were mushed together, only characterized by fatigue and illness, problem after problem that kept him holed up in bed. Pain and aches and...overwhelming fear and loneliness. 

...he didn’t like people feeling sorry for him. Made him feel like they were at a funeral even when he was still living. 

“I want to understand you more too,” Kokichi murmured, able to enjoy the heat coming off Kaito even through their respective layers. “But...there’s stuff I don’t even understand about myself so...I think it’s okay for us to learn together.”

Kokichi propped his head up a little, bits of hay clinging to his hair. “Still… If...there’s stuff you wanna ask? Go for it. It’s not gonna hurt to ask. I might not be up to answering...but I’ll find a way to eventually.”

Kaito hummed, smiling slightly to himself, still enjoying the clouds. This reminded him of some calmer, happier memories of being a child. Finding some calm, nice spot with a new friend, Kaito eagerly trying to learn as much about them as he possibly could. Kaito had found other people fascinating, when he was a kid. Meeting new people was always a borderline interrogation. He had been fascinated to hear all about his potential new friends’ lives, their hobbies, their interests and beliefs.

And Kaito laughed at himself, because despite that keen interest he had in other people, his first question that came to mind was entirely self-interested as he asked Kokichi, watching the clouds, “What was the moment you stopped hating me? Do you remember?”

Kokichi huffed softly. “...I don’t think it was a moment, really. But...there was a moment when I decided to… I don’t know. Give you a chance. To look at you more than just the rumors I’d heard.”

He’d been prepared to do that before they’d met, actually. Kokichi had been wary of Prince Kaito, obviously, but...he knew what bullshit rumors could be. Whatever the truth was, Prince Kaito was someone who’d been sent from his home to a new, strange place and...Kokichi had been prepared to give him a chance to show who he really was. 

And then the swordfighting lesson in the park had happened, and Kokichi had learned that the jerk who had just talked to him to humiliate him was his new husband and...yeah. 

“That night in the greenhouse, before our wedding,” he clarified, as if they had spent any time in the greenhouse at all since then. As if Kaito wouldn’t know immediately what he was talking about. “...you said that...what you did in the park was just...how you learned. How lessons were taught. And that you never meant to do it to just...shut up and humiliate me.”

“And you said you were scared. That you didn’t know what your role here was, that you missed home and… I realized that we were in the same boat then. Having decisions made for us and just...being forced along for the ride.”

Kokichi let out a soft laugh, nuzzling at Kaito’s shoulder. “After that...I decided to wait and see what you were really like. That letter you sent while I was recovering helped a lot.”

“Me? Scared? Whining about missing home? Nah. Doesn’t sound like me. Have no idea who you were talking to,” Kaito joked, looking over to Kokichi, enjoying the press of his body, Kaito using his other arm to create a pillow for his head. 

He chuckled, saying, “Oh, riiiight. The letters. Man, the letter you sent back wrecked us. Maki almost destroyed it, to protect us from the level of the cute that was radiating from it. That was so cute…”

Kaito hummed to himself some more, thinking about it. “...who were your friends, growing up?”

“...and don’t tell me you didn’t have friends, Kokichi.” Kaito said gently, “It’s not true.”

Kokichi blew a puff of air into his mask. “Aw, c’mon… It was supposed to be snide, not cute. I’m glad you got something out of it, at least…”

But while he was mostly teasing on that, Kokichi sighed, a little annoyed, at the next thing Kaito brought up. And...for a long moment, Kokichi was quiet.

“...it’s not fair to call them friends…”

“Everyone at the castle...they have to be around me. And even if they felt genuinely friendly...they’re paid to...clean places where I live, guard where I live, look out for me… It...it’s too much of an imbalance…” Sighing, Kokichi furrowed his brow, staring up at the cloudy sky as if it’d explain things better. “And even for Lake and Waku and Denji...well, even then Denji-chan’s different. I only knew them after they were hired. But...Lake and Waku ended up growing up and getting jobs at the castle anyway. It’s not fair to put that kind of pressure on them…

Even if Lake and Denji had always felt more like siblings to him. Waku and Katsuki his friends. 

Even if he’d managed to break through that wall with Ikuo…

Well, they had their own lives now. No need to attach themselves to...dead weight like him… It was...better to be distant. ...hurt less to find out he had only ever been an obligation…

Kaito listened to this quietly. Sighing to himself, as he heard that belief in Kokichi even now…

...his husband could be… a little stupid sometimes…

There were a few ways he could say this. But, well, Kaito doubted he was the first person to talk to Kokichi about this, and none of them had gotten through to Kokichi. So, let’s see...let’s see…

… Kaito sat up. He looked over at his husband and gave him a grin.

“Heh, I feel the exact same way! Isn’t that a funny trick to pull on the commoners and the help?”

Kaito laughed, running a hand through his hair, as he said, “Convincing them you like them, tricking them into liking you back? Letting them believe for even half a second that they have an agency in their relationship with you? It’s so funny! It’s a lot of fun pulling the wool over their eyes!”

Resting his chin on his  hand, his elbow on his knee, Kaito looked at the field they were lazily rolling down, and said cheerfully, “Easily my favorite time of pressuring someone into a friendship with me was Maki. Man, she did not like me at first. But she was an Indentured and I was a prince, so I was totally able to force her to be my very best friend. Nothing she could do about it. It’s funny how she thinks she had any choice in it. Easily the best trick I ever pulled.”

Kaito shook his head, before saying, “No, no, I take it back. Shuuichi’s the best trick I ever pulled. Taking all that time to get to know him, spend time with him, let him get to know me, develop a bond deep enough that he moved to a different country with me and, heh, ended up having my fucking baby? Man...what a fucking idiot. Hook, line and sinker! That’s how we do it, huh? Us royalty types?” Kaito grinned, winking as Kokichi conspiringly. 

“Aren’t my friends so helpless and fucking stupid? Isn’t it funny to think of them that way?”

It took less than a second for Kokichi to glare up at Kaito, sitting up himself as he kept on. He could see the point Kaito was trying to make but… It was different. 

(How?)

Well, for one, Kokichi had never tried to convince anyone that he liked them. He had been terrified of Waku and Katsuki for years. And once he’d gotten past that...well, Katsuki had already been a guard at that point, and Waku… Even after that they’d avoided each other. Waku was busy enough with school and therapy, and Kokichi was...focusing on his own lessons, when he wasn’t making himself sick with worry. 

But they still both sat in the library together sometimes. Kokichi would listen to whatever new thing she’d heard, and he’d ask endless questions about her heart-hearing code-cracking. She would buy him puzzle books when he was sick, so he’d have something to entertain his brain while his body was still on the fritz. 

...Kokichi’s glare dropped to the bottom of the wagon, softening into regret as he hugged around his knees. 

...Since Kokichi didn’t want any help dressing up and he didn’t wear makeup, Denji only did their job for him a few times a year, during festivals and the rare times Kokichi would sit in during court. 

...but...almost once a week they’d wake him up early anyway, get him to fight whatever outfit they pulled out, force him to...get started with his day when he wanted nothing more than to just sleep forever. Whenever Kokichi actually went down for dinner, they sat together, talking about their days and gossip swirling around the castle and taking jabs at each other the whole time. 

Lake had always tried to play with him. Had been one of the first to realize his love of soft, cute stuffed animals, but had realized that sometimes he just...sat down and looked at them, too tired to play. So...she would go around, making incredible stories for them and...played pretend for him. Did the stuff Kokichi wanted to, but didn’t have the energy for. 

Then she took it a step forward, carrying him around the castle on grand adventures. And...while Aiichi had never raised a hand, or even his voice at Kokichi...she’d been one of the fiercest fighters in favor of Kokichi’s freedom. Wanting to take their games to the next level again, going outside the castle, taking her little brother to parks and toy stores and all sorts of things…

(Ikuo had never told Kokichi. After he’d stopped breathing, barely outside the castle gates, just past the hill in the back leading to the park… Ikuo had held the then-teenager for hours outside the medical ward, letting her cry and promising that she hadn’t killed Kokichi. Lake and Aiichi had had a long talk after that and...Lake stopped trying to sneak Kokichi out of the castle.)

(...Kokichi couldn’t even think about all his time with Nao. Not just to potentially set Kaito off but...because it still hurt too much. To think of the times story time had been interrupted by tangents that spun way too out of control. To think of the comfort she brought him, when she said it was okay to still be afraid of the others sometimes, because there were days where looking at Ryouhei made her want to curl up and hide.

To think of all that, and then know she was the same person who had tied Shuuichi up without food or water, and had made him feel like he was worse than nothing. 

It hurt too much.)

With a shaky breath, Kokichi just shook his head a little. “...I’m just a burden… They’d be happier without me in their lives…”

Kaito frowned, a sudden rush of anger running through his stomach.

...the anger burned hotter, and Kaito growled. “‘Kichi...would you give any of us any fucking credit!? We’re not these fucking...mindless puppets chained to you that you’ve fucking catagorized us as for whatever fucking reason. We all reach out to you becuase we fucking like you.”

“Stop… just fucking dismissing our fucking feelings. Fuck!”

“Everything okay back there?” The man driving the wagon ahead called back, sounding concerned. It wasn’t often he could hear the people on the ride, the wheels drowning most of the noise, but Kaito’s angry words had cut through the sounds. 

Kaito ran a hand over his face, calling back, “It’s fine! Everything’s fine!” and then quieter, to himself, “Damn it, sorry, I didn’t mean to yell… fuck, ‘Kichi, shit like that...it’s not fair to tell us what we’d be happier with, okay? We’re allowed to decide for ourselves... we’re not mindless… damn it….”

Kokichi looked up in alarm, sent back to that horrible night in the memorial garden… He didn’t… He didn’t think they were mindless! It was just...pity and guilt and duty could drive people into a lot of things they were better off without. That they wouldn’t have chosen otherwise. He couldn’t… It was just playing pretend to…

...think that anyone would genuinely like him if they weren’t driven by those things…

...but Kaito did. Even if he was sworn by duty, if he had seen Kokichi in states that would fill him with pity, if he’d done things that would wrack him with guilt. He had those feelings...but he liked Kokichi too. 

That’s how Maki and Shuuichi felt too. Hell, Ikuo too. 

...was it so unbelievable to think there were others?

Kokichi covered his eyes, taking deep, sometimes hitching breaths. And after a long moment, muffled by his sleeves… 

“...do you think they hate me for this?”

“I mean, it probably doesn’t make them feel very good.” Kaito huffed. Then in a mock falsetto, he said, “Oh, Lake, who used to play games with me and used to run around with me on your shoulders and tried to take me out into town when we were kids, all your feelings are fake and we’re not really friends at all~.”

“Fuck, ‘Kichi, that shit would hurt anyone’s feelings.” Kaito mumbled, laying back down, grumpily staring back up at the sky. “I doubt she hates ya for it, but you probably owe her an apology, babe.”

Kokichi huffed a bit at the falsetto (his voice wasn’t that high), but… He nodded. He didn’t want to do something like this during Harvest but...the next time he saw any of them… He’d apologize. Maybe...find out what they really felt. Finally say how he really felt. 

“...if...any of them really just did any of that just out of obligation… could you hold me while I cry? I’d have it coming, after doing this, but…” Kokichi sniffled quietly, his face still buried in his sleeves. “...I need to know there’s somewhere I can go...an’ I don’t wanna scare you by sitting in the closet for a while…”

Kaito rolled his eyes a little. Honestly, Kokichi… he didn’t understand how someone could assume the best of people as much as Kokichi did, and still have so little faith in them. Especially the ones he knew personally. Kaito had hated all of the staff when he got here and had still noticed how much people fucking liked Kokichi. Their ‘Light of Dicea’...obligation his ass…

But, Kokichi really believed it. And Kaito didn’t have it in him to leave Kokichi out in the cold, even if his husband was acting like a fucking idiot. So he sat up, scooting back from the edge of the wagon, and reaching out to Kokich, grabbing him by his elbow and pulling him into a hug as he said, “Would you come here already...no one’s going to say that shit to you. And if they do, then yeah, you can come and cry in my arms about it.”

“But, ‘Kichi, I’m telling you… you already know which ones were just working for you, and which ones care about you. You might not realize you know it yet, but you do. And the ones who were just working for you? They’re not gonna be the ones you feel like asking about this, or apologizing to. Anyone it occurs to you that you want to talk about this to? Those were the people who were your friends growing up.”

Kaito sighed, hugging Kokichi to him… and asked, “So? You never told me. Who were your friends growing up?”

Kokichi tucked himself into Kaito’s hug, hiding his face more in Kaito’s jacket than his sleeves now. It felt inevitable that he’d have his hopes crushed...but he could try to be optimistic. That they felt the same about their time together that he did. 

Sighing softly, Kokichi pressed his forehead against Kaito’s chest. “...Lake and Denji were more like siblings… Denji-chan’s your age, just about, and while Lake-chan’s, like, twelve years older...she’s known me since I was a baby. It...it took me a while to warm up to them, but Waku-chan and Katsuki-chan were my friends too…”

“...Hajime-chan’s only worked at the castle for a few years but...I kinda wanna be friends with him too. And Nadya-chan…” Kokichi sniffled again before looking up at Kaito, his makeup just barely smudged around the corners of his eyes, though the amount of hay in his hair was a little ridiculous. “...met a new housekeeper the other day, name’s Kerry. They were...really nice, considering they caught me crying in the bathroom…”

“...I love a lot of people at home, you know?”

Kaito grinned warmly at him, before lowering his mask for a moment, to place a warm kiss against Kokichi’s forehead. “‘Course you do. They love you too.”

Kaito was willing to bet there were more that, by Kaito’s definition of the word, counted as ‘friends’. The chick who had sent them their scary evil vibrator, for one. But Kaito decided he had probably bullied his husband enough on this topic, and decided to let it go for now. Kokichi just had to stop being an asshole and pushing people away… and since his husband was, generally, adorable and sweet and kind, Kaito was certain once they got past this stupid mental block of his, then all of Kokichi’s friends really would come out of the woodwork.

Though… “You were crying in the bathroom?” Kaito asked, looking down in mild concern. “Was this recent?”

Kokichi blinked, then thought over what he said. He’d only meant to mention Kerry, but...his mouth included how they met too. 

...oops.

Swallowing, Kokichi sighed softly. “Um...few weeks ago, I think… It wasn’t anything big, and no one upset me, so you don’t have to worry about something like that,” Kokichi lied with a soft smile. 

“I really love reading the personal letters people send in, but...sometimes it can be kind of overwhelming.” He forced a puff of a laugh, looking away with feigned sheepishness. ...it would only hurt Kaito to hear about the letters. Put him in an ‘us versus them’ mentality that he didn’t need. “I try to only read a few at a time, but I went a little overboard and… Overwhelming, yeah. Too many emotions all at once, and I gotta let ‘em out. I’m just glad I didn’t end up freaking Kerry out too much with that.”

Kaito felt a flash of guilt. Right, the personal letters… “Yeah, sorry I… haven't been getting through those.” Kaito sighed, “They...I know it’s not fair to think of the writers this way, but I sometimes get frustrated with the whole concept. I mean…” Kaito struggled to explain himself, looking for the words, before saying, “I don’t know. I can be mean sometimes. Lots of times.” Kaito chuckled, shaking his head. “I’ll be better about it and help out with them more.”

“But, awww, my poor sweet ‘Kichi,” Kaito gushed, squeezing him tight for a moment, kissing his cheek through the mask, “You’re so good… and hey, I think everyone’s had that ‘crying in the bathroom’ moment. I’m sure this Kerry person understood.”

“Here, babe, let me fix you up a little.” Kaito said, placing his index finger gently on Kokichi’s chin and pushing his head up, before taking his thumb and evening out some of the smudged makeup around Kokichi’s eyes. It wasn’t a perfect fix, but Kaito was able to take away some of the raccoon effect Kokichi had going on, and whispered when he was done, “There he is. My beautiful Kokichi…”

Kokichi shook his head a bit. “It’s alright… I keep pushing but...you keep telling me that you don’t want to do administrative work. My Kai-chan is too sweet, so he’s done some anyway, but...if you don’t want to, you don’t want to, and I should take your word. I just...kept putting my own thoughts onto you, again,” Kokichi sighed, giving a slightly exasperated look to Kaito. “I always kept hearing it as...you didn’t think you’d be good at the work, so...I thought I’d encourage you to try. Everyone’s bad at things at first, and you only get better through practice. But if it’s just...something you’re uncomfortable with, or don’t wanna do...urging you to do it isn’t going to do anyone any good.”

But, because he was Kokichi, he couldn’t help trying to explain what the social letters were for. “It’s just...we don’t want anyone to feel alone, you know? And if everything else is going wrong, at least people still have their leadership. And it helps to get to know people from all over the country too, at least a little. Clues us into what people are thinking, and makes us seem more like people and less like...some vague entity in the capital.”

Sighing, Kokichi sat still under Kaito’s fussing, not particularly minding if he’d messed the makeup up, but not minding Kaito caring about it either. Pressing their masked noses together, Kokichi gave his husband something of an amused look. “I thought I was always beautiful to you.”

Kaito gave Kokichi a confused look, before saying, tone mildly incredulous. “Yes? And look.” He ran his fingers slightly at the edges of his hair, petting him. “There he is.”

And he leaned down to rest his forehead against Kokichi’s for a second, just enjoying the contact for a moment… before straightening up, looking out to the fields. He could see the lines and lines of trees and bushes in the distance. Could smell the fruit in the air. They were getting closer. 

“...I’m sorry about the administration stuff, ‘Kichi,” Kaito murmured. “I really can try to learn how to do it. If that’s how I can help you, I’m willing to try. But, you were kinda right before, and you’re kinda right now. I don’t believe I can do it, and...I never really wanted to either...I just...never thought I’d have to. But I can try. I really can…”

Especially if there was no other way he could be useful. And while he didn’t want to be a king, he did so desperately want to be useful…

And, as for the social letters… it made sense. Again, Kaito was just mean sometimes. He just found it difficult to take most of the letters seriously. The people writing them feeling a little entitled, a little gossipy, and a little pathetic. 

But that was just Kaito being mean.

Leaning back, leaning on his hands, Kaito looking at the nice view for a moment, he mused, “I guess I still have plenty of time to ask you all sorts of things...but, maybe it’s fair of me to say that, you know...if there’s anything you wanted to know about me? I mean,” Kaito shrugged, “I’m a pretty open book, so maybe by this point there isn’t anything I haven't told you already. But if there was anything that you felt uncomfortable bringing up before? I…” 

Kaito chuckled. “I was going to say I won’t get angry if you asked me, but, like, that’s not something I can promise. But I can promise I won’t do anything stupid with that anger. Practice makes perfect, right!”

...they’d be okay. Kaito would call him out on his stupid shit, and he’d temper his husband’s impulses. They’d be okay. As they pressed their foreheads together, Kokichi gathered one of Kaito’s hands in his own, holding it tenderly. 

“...only if you truly want to,” Kokichi sighed. “Like...if you ask me what you can work on, I’ll always be happy to point you in a direction, okay? But...you’re not gonna disappoint me if that’s not what you want to do. Kai-chan has too much vibrance to be stuck doing things that don’t grasp you.”

He’d asked before what Kaito wanted to do and...they never really came to a solid answer. Maybe that was just something they’d have to find out. But, at least, Kokichi knew Kaito wanted to be a good father and a good partner...a good friend. And those things brought Kokichi more pride than any sort of profession. 

Laughing softly, Kokichi tipped their noses together again, proud of Kaito’s anger management and…

There was...one thing that came to mind, at least.

Playing with Kaito’s hand, Kokichi kept close, but didn’t quite look Kaito in the eye--though, it would’ve been rather difficult with them so close together anyway. “...why didn’t you go after Maki-chan and Shuu-chan after we signed the treaty? You’d fulfilled your duty in stopping the war so...why stick around?”

...Kaito hadn’t been expecting that one.

“Mmmgh.” Kaito grunted, something...frustrated and ashamed growling out of his throat, Kaito staring down at their legs. Thinking about it. He had told Maki why, when she had asked why he hadn’t gone, and his answer with her had been honest, but also spoken in the heat of overwhelming terror. He had… more time to consider his answer this time, and he tried to give it the consideration it deserved.

“First of all...regardless of what I say next? That wasn’t your fault. My choice to stay, I mean…”

Kaito glanced at the hand Kokichi was playing with, looking at his ring finger. He didn’t look at it very often. It was a good symbol, but Kaito didn’t feel any real attachment to his wedding ring. His eyes instead moving to the scar on his wrist, deep and permanent. 

“...I’m really not proud of that moment, actually.” Kaito confessed, “I have lots of regrets, but man...for me, that’s one of the big ones. Not going after them after the wedding. I should have gone. They deserved so much better than what I did. I abandoned them…”

“...partly I was scared. Mostly I was scared. And I get really stupid when I’m scared. And I get…” Kaito sighed, frustrated with himself. Not wanting to think this, let alone say it, but… “I get… kinda… kinda obedient…”

Kaito grunted. Taking his hand away from Kokichi, rubbing his temple, before pushing his palm into his eye, trying to soothe himself as he said quickly, “Not to you. Not to you, okay? I just...to the situation, okay? And to...to Tengan, a bit. I don’t know. I don’t know, none of that is good enough, it’s not good enough, but I had a purpose. I had a point, right then, and the whole point was- fuck.”

Kaito pushed his palm further into his eye. “God damn it, it’s so fucking stupid, and it’s not your fault, okay? I just… I was supposed to stay. I thought that’s what I was supposed to do. I had just become your husband. I thought I was supposed to stay. I was scared, and overwhelmed, and didn’t know what to do, so I just did what I thought I was expected to do, which was stay.”

“...and that’s on me. No one else. I’m not a slave. I should have gone, and I did go, later, when I thought the situation became dire. It’s entirely on me that I didn’t go that same day. No one else. I could have gone...”

Sometimes, there just wasn’t some big, eye-opening reason why someone did something. Sometimes...they just did. Went with the flow of a situation because they didn’t know what else to do, or were too overwhelmed for any number of reasons to think of any other actions. 

“...I’m sorry…”

Before Kaito could say anything, Kokichi gave him a hard look before it softened again, gently cupping the side of Kaito’s face he wasn’t burying into his hand. “I’m not sorry because I think that it’s my fault, okay? So no protests about that.”

“I’m sorry because...you’re my husband.” Kokichi stroked Kaito’s cheek right where the mask ended. “I love you, and you’re someone I care about, so...I’m sorry that that whole situation was so awful. None of you deserved to go through that...and I’m glad you’re all safe.”

Kokichi fell quiet, but after a moment… “...you should’ve gone, but since that’s not the reality we’re in? ...thank you for giving me nice memories of dancing with you. My brave husband, stuck in a terrible situation...but you still managed to defy Tengan, and you gave me something special. So...thanks.”

Kaito grinned shakily, not having realized he had been working himself up until he felt Kokichi start stroking his face, his chest thumping slightly in his ears, his blood rushing...but he closed his eyes and listened to Kokichi. He hadn’t meant to get so riled up…

But...it was nice to sit with Kokichi and be touched softly and spoken quietly to… and Kaito felt that anxious, angry energy ease out. 

Opening his eyes, Kaito gave Kokichi a soft, adoring look as he said, “...Thanks. I should have gone, but… dancing with you and watching you have fun was actually really great… I think that was the first time since you were Koh that I saw you happy. I loved that.” Kaito sighed, taking Kokichi’s face between his hands and resting his forehead against him, closing his eyes and breathing in a bit, a little disappointed he couldn’t catch his husband's scent right then as he said, “I really love to see you happy…”

“Lucky for you, then, that Kai-chan is very good at making me happy.” Kokichi closed his eyes as well, enjoying the closeness though...there was something that bugged him at the back of his head.

...it was pretty reasonable that he hadn’t been particularly happy in the time between the proposal and their wedding. He had been stressed beyond belief, nursing hurt feelings, trying to find out an assassin so their countries wouldn’t be thrust back into war…

But had he been particularly happy as Koh?

...hanging out with Caleb had been fun. Not many of the travelers he bugged had indulged him so much, usually just describing where they were from in a few sentences in return for getting directions. He had never actually given a tour like he did, and how Caleb had talked with him about books and traveling and everything… 

...he had been excited. Hopeful. And...yeah. Maybe happy too, though he knew what was waiting for him at home and in the coming days. But spending that day with Caleb had been...a joyous reprieve. 

And while things weren’t okay all the time, and Kaito wasn’t perfect...he did make him happy. And hopefully they’d have more and more happy times as time went on, and as their family grew.

Kaito grinned at that, laughing before placing a covered kiss against Kokichi’s forehead, some of ‘Kichi’s makeup coming off on his mask, but that was alright. The day was closer to its end than it was to its beginning, and his husband could be a little ruffled by this point in the festival without anyone having any right to judge him.

And if anyone gave him any looks for it, Kaito could fucking bare his teeth at them and take advantage of that fucking reputation of his.

...though, Kaito felt a tinge of unease when the wagon eventually came to a stop, letting them off in front of a massive apple orchard, the scent of sweet, ripened fruit everywhere, hanging in the air like a blanket. He was uncomfortable because as soon as the wagon stopped, the driver immediately got off, hurrying to the back, something worried and suspicious in his gaze as he looked over Kokichi, before offering a gnarled hand to help the Dicean Prince down, giving Kaito a wary glance.

...that was fair. The man had heard Kaito yelling at Kokichi. That was fair. But everything was fine! Kokichi was clearly fine, and Kaito gave the man an apologetic grin as he jumped off the wagon, taking Kokichi’s hand as he said, “Thank you for the ride! That was smooth, right, babe?”

Kokichi appreciated the kiss, their couple time together in the back of the wagon even if it hadn’t been exactly what most people expected to do. But...it was important. Learning about each other and, for Kokichi at least, having his world view shaken. He was enough of a coward to not act on it until tomorrow, but...no matter how much it ended up hurting him...it was important. And maybe it’d lead to a happier future. 

Kokichi barely noticed the cart coming to a stop but...oh did he ever notice that they weren’t in the heart of the city anymore. It wasn’t the same as when they’d left on their trip, the forest in the opposite direction from the orchards, but...the distinct lack of buildings in every direction, the trees that littered the rolling land, filling the air with a fruity sweetness… He didn’t even know fruit could do that when it wasn’t being cooked!

Giving the wagon driver a thankful smile and accepting his hand down from the back, Kokichi held the older man’s hand for an extra moment, really impressing his thanks and...reassurance. “Thank you, and sorry we got a little loud. Have a wonderful Harvest.”

Kokichi went to Kaito’s side after that, taking his hand as he turned, his eyes full of wonder at the orchard and the farmhouse they’d stopped in front of, a handful of other people there, some obviously the people who owned the orchard, and others guests, tasting cider and buying everything from raw apples to apple butter to bottles of the cider. Out in the distance there were other couples walking amongst the trees, and while Kokichi had no intentions of disappearing into the orchard...maybe it could be something fun to do in the future. 

“I had some Cosmic Cider earlier, Kai-chan--you have to try a sip. I don’t think I’ve ever tasted something quite like it!”

Kaito’s eyes looked over the crowd of people, though they settled on the people that was selling the cider. There was four people of note, in the sense that there was four people who looked like they were the ones running things, two older women who seemed to be answering some questions by a few curious patrons, a man in his thirties who was looking over a clipboard, counting something, and a tired looking teenager, who was the one actually running the barrel of cider. 

“Alright, well, considering I’ve only ever seen you sip on wine like you were annoyed it wasn’t hot chocolate, babe, I’m going to assume that this stuff is amazing, then.” Kaito teased gently, heading over to the wooden tables that the cider barrels were resting on, grinning at the teenager as he said, “Hey there! Happy Harvest!”

The teenager gave Kaito a disinterested look, before nodding. “Happy Harvest.” She said, “Can we offer you some cider? First sample is free, five copper for all refills.”

“Sure! I’ve heard good things about this cider, so I’m excited!” Kaito said enthusiastically, “Two please, one for me and one for my husband!”

The teenager looked over at Kokichi...and frowned. “Are you old enough to drink?”

To be honest, Kokichi still didn’t think the cider was the best drink ever or anything, and no matter what you seemed to do, you could never quite completely get rid of that boozy taste. Still, the cider Kokichi had sampled that morning had been really good for an alcoholic drink, and he wanted to try a little more. And...it wasn’t like Kaito would get anywhere near drunk from a sample, so...it was okay for him too. 

It was Harvest! A special occasion! They could have a drink. 

Kokichi sighed softly at the question, but didn’t begrudge the teenager. Reaching into a pocket in his cloak, Kokichi pulled out five copper. “I’m twenty, and I had a sample in town earlier so… Not gonna game the system ‘cause I had it in town and not here, yanno? And my husband ‘heard great things’ from me.” Kokichi nudged Kaito’s side playfully. 

Sometimes that was enough for people to accept that he was of age. No one really carried around their birth certificates or citizenship papers or anything, so usually it was fine to just use your own judgement. Hopefully Kokichi wouldn’t have to prove anything more...even using the ‘I’m the heir apparent’ card was just embarrassing.

The teenager raised an eyebrow at Kokichi...before looking at Kaito with an openly ‘what the fuck’ look as she said, “...married? Did you have to, like, get his parents permission or-”

“Diane! What are you doing? Would you just give them their samples! You know damn well that’s the prince and his husband!” the man with the clipboard called out, heading over. 

The family resemblance was strong, right up to the fact that both of them looked exhausted. However, while Diane was thin and lean, her fair skin darkened only by the process of living on a farm, clearly not one to help with the workload very often, her father (they looked far too much alike to be anything else) was built like an ox, his skin, already tanned by the sun, still managing to look burnt on his cheeks and nose, in the sun so long these last few days that even his farm lifestyle hadn’t been able to keep up with it. 

Both of their eyes had dark circles under their eyes, but while Diane looked like she’d lay down to take a nap any second, her father was bursting with energy, and he bounded over, clasping Kokichi’s shoulders and shaking him back and forth in greeting as he said, “And you! Prince Kokichi! Put that away, your money is no good here! Ouma’s drink free here! Diane! Get Prince Kokichi a drink!”

Diane rolled her eyes, before muttering, “I didn’t know that was the prince. The prince never comes to events like these. How was I supposed to know he was the prince?” as she poured him a cup, handing it over. 

As she did the same for Kaito, the well built man called out to the two older woman, “Mothers! Come look! The prince finally decided to pay us a visit this year! Come say hello!”

Kokichi looked a bit bashful when the man with the clipboard called out, but...well, that settled it, didn’t it. He wanted to insist that he’d pay for his drink, but Kokichi found he’d barely managed to keep his grip on the coins as he was rattled back and forth. In an odd way, Kokichi was almost reminded of the way Kaito had interacted with him when they first met--a little jarring, but so friendly Kokichi couldn’t help but smile. 

He shook his head a little at Diane, explaining, “It’s alright--this is my first year doing more than hanging out in the city center, so no worries. I’m glad that you’d be suspicious of any minors trying to get drinks!”

Following up with a sheepish laugh, Kokichi waved to the two older women as he nodded to the man. “Sorry it’s taken so long! I’ve always wanted to visit the Kiginko Orchard; thanks for the warm welcome! Seeing the orchard and everything you all do is incredible.”

Sure, some people got really excited to meet him but, still… It was a little flattering, how warmly the family seemed to regard him. 

(Of course, because he was Kokichi, he wasn’t exactly thinking of all the administrative work he always did in regard to all the agricultural businesses in Dicea, but particularly for the ones near the capital. Really, they were pretty close business associates, and Kokichi had been writing with the Kiginko family for years.)

“Ah, Prince Kokichi! Welcome, welcome,” one of the older women, with dark hair mixed with thick, coarse gray hairs and wearing an apron, wandered over, smiling brightly at the prince, while the other one, (her hair entirely white and wild, tangled knots going up in every direction, and despite her clearly aged form, something almost...manic and strung, about her. Like an animal ready to leap) also...smiled. Or, well, showed them her teeth, as she followed. “My name is Riley, and this is my wife, Danielle. You’ve met my son and grandchild, Neil and Diane. Thank you so much for visiting us this year! We’ve been looking forward to the youngest Ouma finally getting the chance to enjoy our wares! You’re always welcome here.”

“Ehhhh, ah! Wait, so, this is the other one, eh?” Danielle snickered, her….smile… widening at Kaito, eyes, shockingly sharp and steady despite her advanced age, looking Kaito up and down. “Nice costume there, kid. You know suns gonna be down by the time you’ll be safely off the farm. Planning to freeze on the back of our wagons? Make us liable?”

“Ma! Don’t tease the man, I’m sure he’s got a plan. You got more clothes with you, uh…’Prince’?” Neil said, grinning at Kaito, hands on his hips, clearly not certain how to address him but also not intending to be rude. 

“Kaito! Please, call me Kaito!” Kaito said quickly, still hearing the ‘sire’ thing these days, that being one of those things that had quickly been passed around the castle that no one had quite let go of yet. “And...no? Why, how cold is it gonna be tonight?”

“Oh my god.” Diane mumbled, “This guy actually doesn’t have any more clothes…”

Danielle cackled, loudly, shaking her wild hair before saying, “Alright, alright, that’s fine. Wait here, kids, Ma’s got ya. I’ll be right back.”

Riley watched her wife head inside to the farm, before turning back to the boys. “Well? How do you like the cider?”

“Huh? Oh!” Kaito looked down at his cup, before in an effort to show willingness, he took a long gulp of it, than another. Neil chuckled as Kaito downed the whole cup, before enthusiastically taking a breath, shouting, “Amazing, mother! Top quality stuff! It’s really rich!”

Riley laughed, before raising an eyebrow. “Ah, ‘mother’? Have I suddenly adopted myself a Luminary, then?”

Kaito frowned, giving her an openly confused look for a moment, before saying, “Oh! No, no, sorry, uh… you call...uh…” he looked around, suddenly embarrassed as he said, “In Luminary, you call women who serve any kind of food ‘mother’.”

“Weird. What do you call guys who serve food?” Diane asked.

“Um…” Kaito shrugged, “Nothing in particular? Oh, uh, though you call male shopkeeps over a certain age ‘grandfather’.”

“Weird!” Neil said cheerfully, before saying enthusiastically, “Well, I’m glad you like the cider so much! It was a good batch this year! Summer was good to us! Now, Prince Kokichi! You two planning to pick any apples while you’re here? We can provide a basket for you, if that’s your aim!”

“It’s lovely to meet you,” Kokichi said with a smile, taking a small step back so he could slightly lift his mask and sip at the cider. Ooooh...sweet and crisp with just enough of that slightly sour apple taste to give it a kick from more than just the fermentation… He didn’t really enjoy drinking often, but Kokichi was all about this brew. “Mm… I’ve been waiting less than patiently for the opportunity to come, though I’m glad I’m of age this year so I can enjoy everything. ‘Course, wouldn’t be that bummed to miss out if it meant I could finally meet all of you in person.”

The look on Kokichi’s face was charming, and somehow him snickering at the Kiginko family teasing Kaito for his lack of layers didn’t lessen the effect. “I keep telling him, and our other friends too--it’s gonna be freezing! But no, this guy’s seen snow all the way up to four inches before!” Kokichi rolled his eyes again before taking a few more careful drinks of cider, his little happy wiggle at the taste probably more of a glowing review than his more generic, though entirely sincere compliments. 

Though, while it would be amazing to pick some fresh apples… Kokichi gave Neil a thankful look as he shook his head ‘no’. “Maybe another time, but Kai-chan and I are just sightseeing today. We promised some friends to see the end of the pumpkin-carving contest, so this isn’t going to be the most robust visit, but we wanted to make it! So...you might see me around more than just once a year!”

“Ah, well, apple picking after this month will likely start up again in the spring. Trees are in the process of dying right now, and once winter gets here, I’m afraid the apples will leave with the fall.” Neil explained, looking over his carefully tended orchard with a proud eye, before saying, “But, once spring hits! And summer, especially! We’ll be expecting to see you back here, Prince Kokichi! You and the family! Congratulations on the little one, by the way! At this rate, it’s gonna be a summer baby, innit?”

...that was an excellent question. Was Shuichi’s pregnancy a nine month one? Kaito knew his poor Shuichi was gonna balloon up sooner rather than later, but he couldn’t remember if the doc had said when he was expected to pop. Maybe he had just missed it when she said it. Still… “Thank you! Yep, summer is what it’s looking like!” Kaito said.

It was Riley who nodded, saying pleased, “Good. Summer babies are always strong. It’s a good time of year to be born.”

Diane blinked sleepily, saying, “I feel like I prove that false.”

“Hush, girl, you’re strong! Honestly, a lack of willingness doesn’t mean a lack of strength!” Neil said, giving his daughter a hard look, who just yawned back at him.

Coming out of the farmhouse, Neil looked over at his eldest mother, and frowned as she saw what was in her arms. “Ma, come on now, you can’t-”

“Hush, boy, I can do as I please. None of you ever wear this, and it’d make your great grandfather happy to know at least someone was getting some use of it!” Danielle cackled, bringing out a large...large, dark fur coat in her arms. Real fur, it was obvious on first glance, the fur long and bristled, though Kaito had no guess as to what type of animal it once was as she said, “‘Side, I got too many of them. The man was relentless. I don’t need a whole damn packs worth of coats to remember that ol’ bastard with. Here you go, Luminary!”

“Oh, um...thank you, mother!” Kaito said, bowing low (she cackled harder at this) as he took the coat from her, putting it on over the jacket he was already wearing. It was long, too, one solid piece, with a hood on it that, when Kaito put it up, had large ears on it, that went straight up. Kaito was six feet tall, and the coat was as long as he was, and felt big around him, and stunned by the size of the animal, Kaito asked, “What...what is it? Or, was it?”

Danielle showed him her teeth. A part of Kaito, the very, very human part of him, shivered in learned caution over generations of biological conditioning, as he felt his gaze drop to that...smile. 

“Wolf.” She snickered. 

“Oh!” Kaito said, grinning, taking an involuntary step back, gently dragging Kokichi back with him. “Great! Thank you! It’s very warm!”

She cackled at that, and Riley just rolled her eyes at her, “Honestly, darling...well! It was lovely meeting you both!” she said to the princes, taking her wife by her shoulder and gently steering her away as she said, “But we should check in with the new round of costumes who just drove up! Please, take as much cider as you like with you for your journey back! Happy Harvest!”

Kokichi nodded knowingly, hoping that they could get back out to the orchard within the month but...it wasn’t going anywhere, and neither were they. It would be nice to come by while the trees were blooming, and then when the apples started to ripen… Spend a summer’s day picking apples, maybe for some recipe Kaito wanted to try. They didn’t have the time (or a good way to carry apples back to the main part of the city, even with a basket) today, but...this wasn’t a once in a lifetime thing. Kokichi would be back. 

“Thank you,” Kokichi said along with Kaito, filling with a bit of pride at the mention of their coming child, though he was amused when Kaito agreed right away. Dr. Tenchi had said they were probably looking at spring but...well, depending on the time, it might get to be summer anyway. 

He laughed along with talking about summer babies (though he couldn’t help feeling he was an exception to the rule as well), quipping that he couldn’t say it was a bad time, though his eyebrows raised in surprise at the coat Danielle brought out. He’d echoed his protests with Neil as well, saying that they couldn’t possibly take something like it (it took a lot of time and effort to make fur coats, not to mention the skill in getting an animal big enough for a coat that size), but Kokichi was shut down as well, and he could only giggle when Kaito tried it on, finding the ears popping up cute. 

Though...were wolves really that big? He knew they were bigger than you’d think but...still. 

Getting the impression that they were starting to be in the way, Kokichi waved the two older women goodbye. “Thank you for the chat and for the coat--we’ll take very good care of it. Happy Harvest!!”

And with one more cup of cider (it really was terribly good) as the princes decided to look around the trees (though staying out of the orchard proper), Kokichi perked as something connected in his mind. 

“Oh! You know what I bet…” He murmured a bit, lightly touching along the edge of the coat. “Years ago, like, over a century I mean, there were super high reports of wolves around here? Like, in Usot proper, which is kind of weird since they usually stay away from cities? It’s not until you get pretty far into the woods that you can find their territories these days…”

“But back then, there was a sudden surge of wolf activity. I remember reading reports about how the administration were trying to handle the population… In part, they were given the okay for necessity hunting--I bet the great grandfather Kiginko was one of the folks who did. Making coats for personal use is definitely qualified under that… It’s like you’re wearing a piece of history, Kai-chan.” Kokichi grinned up at his husband, his cheeks starting to go a little rosy. “Very cool.”

“Oh yeah?” Kaito said, looking down at the sleeves of the coat, long enough that they were covering half of his palm, feeling like was honestly swimming in the size of it. “It was nice of her to give me something so old… though, phew.” Kaito laughed, giving Kokichi a sheepish grin as he admitted, “She was kinda intimidating. I felt like she could eat me.”

Which was a weird way for him to feel, he realized the second he said it out loud. She had to have been in her eighties. Her skin had looked like paper thin leather, with blotches of age spots and the bruises that became plentiful, with just the slightest brush against a figure that old. He could see her bones in her collar and her face. Her teeth yellowed.

And yet...despite all that damage and age? 

Kaito had left her with the impression she could tear him apart, if she really wanted too. 

(Somewhere, deep in him, a piece his god borrowed looked up, both tense and excited. The piece given to Atua by the ocean reached over and patted the piece borrowed from the woods, soothingly scratching her behind the ears. She settled down.)

Still, the family had been nice, and their cider good, and as he and Kokichi walked the edge of the orchard, looking up at their golden and red leaves, Kaito looked down at Kokichi and grinned wide, “This place smells great, doesn’t it? Hey, you’re not cold, are you? I know the coat was gifted to me, but if you need it, I wouldn’t be cold. I really will be fine.”

“She seemed like quite a force,” Kokichi agreed. “But...yeah. It’s a certain type of kindness to realize...yanno, that someone new isn’t gonna be prepared for the cold, then to give what kinda seems like a family heirloom. To see it get use and to help someone in need. I’ve always enjoyed writing with the Kiginkos...they’re good folks.”

Koichi looked around at the fall leaves, even a few falling right then from the wind, creating a picture perfect for what he thought of when he thought of fall. Taking another sip of cider, he could only laugh, rolling his eyes at Kaito a little. “Kai-chan, these clothes are made for warmth. Most of the time, I’m actually a little too warm in them. I’m all cozy, and even if you do run warm, I’ll feel better with you in that coat. Don’t wanna go back to Maki-chan with a Kai-sicle.”

Another sip, taking a deep breath of the sweet air as a breeze whistled past, swirling a few leaves in the air. “...it’s really beautiful out here… If I wouldn’t be in the way, I’d like to come out and draw. Maybe in spring, while the trees are flowering…”

“...I think it’d be nice, to press flowers from the baby’s first year,” Kokichi hummed, almost out of the blue. “Like a little time capsule of what the world was like when they’re born.”

“Have an album myself, actually. Not from the year I was born, but...just picking out blooms every now and then, so you can look at ‘em even in the dead of winter. Dad an’ I used to like looking through it when I was sick, trying to remember where we picked ‘em…”

Kaito considered his husband, before closing up his new coat slightly, a little glad Kokichi didn’t need it. He had been trying his best not to think about it, but he had been cold, actually, and had been for awhile there. The coat really was warm, even if it had a slightly musty smell to it, though the scent was struggling to fight against the sheer thick layer of apple in the air. 

Their footsteps were quiet in the grass. In fact, as they walked, the bulk of the visitors all around the main farmhouse, everything was quiet. Except for the sound of his husband, his voice cutting through the still of the icy air pleasantly, Kaito content to just listen to him as they walked. 

“Yeah? You’ll have to show me that, babe. I bet they’re nice.” Kaito said, trying to imagine little Kokichi and Ikou, analyzing pressed flowers, trying to work out for themselves where each flower had come from. He could imagine that small crease that Kokichi always got in the center of his forehead, when he was thinking lightly over something that puzzled him.  But on a little baby face. Awwww…

Kaito tried to think of something else to say, but there was something about the stillness of this place. It wasn’t very often he found himself with genuinely nothing to say, but it was easy to just kind of...exist here. He felt outside of reality here.

On the other hand, Kokichi felt...not really an impetus to talk, but rather...just no reason to not. His thoughts drifting through subjects and finding himself wanting to comment. He nodded firmly, agreeing that his flower album was, indeed, nice. 

“I think it’s important to preserve stuff like that. Not flowers specifically, though it can be helpful to have records in case a species goes extinct, but...moments. Saving little moments in life.” 

Kokichi pressed his head to the side of Kaito’s arm, the fur poking into his face, though he didn’t mind so much. “It’s not, like, essential, of course, but...in a broad sense, that’s the start of culture. Preserving thoughts for other people to see, regardless of time. And in a smaller sense...it can be nice to look back and see who you used to be, in the cases of journals, or...it can bring up nice memories in an instant, things that you normally wouldn’t think about. Reminds you that there’s more to life, and more in your life than the usual routine. That there were little, special moments there.”

“I have a feeling that we’d end up with a loooooot of stuff--since there are a lot of moments with Kai-chan I want to remember,” he giggled, hugging around Kaito’s arm now that he was finished with his cider. “Good thing! Our room is way too clean. Even with your stuff and Shuu-chan’s stuff there too...I wanna make a lot of memories with you guys, and have a lot of things to commemorate it. Want you guys to have enough things that they won’t all fit in two trunks again…”

“And not just all clothes for Kai-chan.” Kokichi looked up with a bit of a teasing look. “Though I like seeing you in new outfits you picked out--Kai-chan always looks so happy and excited… And hot, obviously. Lucky me, since I get to look at someone so pretty everyday.”

“Heh. I’d like you to keep that in mind when you cut my hair, babe. I mean, obviously I know it’s not gonna be perfect or anything, I’m not expecting that. But man, if you’re feeling a little mean spirited when it comes to the cut itself, just remember your poor husband works very hard to be hot for you.” Kaito said, giving him a small wink.

Kaito kinda wanted to tell Kokichi about his apartment, when he had been allowed to move out of the castle to go to university. He had loved it. He had loved having a space all his own, away from his family, the staff he had grown up around, hell...it had even been nice to get some distance from his friends, as much as he loved them. Kaito had been broken-hearted, when he had been called to live back in the castle again, when it had been confirmed that he needed to start prepping to move to Dicea. He missed the carpet. That plant outside his door that had been there when he first rented the place and was there when he left it and just never died, despite, as far as Kaito could ever tell, literally no one ever watering it. The smell of the incense and smoke that he absolutely had not been allowed to have in the apartment but he had indulged in constantly anyway. 

His fridge had always been full, and his stove painfully never used, Kaito promising to teach himself how to cook at some point but spending literally years just buying ready to eat food instead. His dining hall was used as his primary place to study, textbooks and journals littering it, and his living room being almost exclusively where he ate, reading books and newspapers in the light of the window.

Everything had been brown and red. Kaito hadn’t realized he preferred those colors till he had a space all his own, and suddenly everything was brown and red. A lot like this orchard, really...

Kaito wanted to tell Kokichi about these things, but it felt cruel. Kaito suspected Kokichi was never going to move out of his childhood bedroom. Was never going to leave the castle. Kaito knew Kokichi was happy there, but there was something mildly...suffocating, in the idea. Kaito didn’t really understand how Kokichi could stand the idea, let alone the reality of it, and he was afraid if they talked about it in any way, Kokichi would hear that in Kaito’s voice. And Kaito didn’t want to make Kokichi feel bad for decisions that were barely even his husband’s to make…

So he let the discussion of his old apartment die on his lips, and tried to think of something else to say.

“...ya know, I know me and Denji tease you, but I actually do like your outfits and all that.” Kaito said, grinning down at his husband. “They’re cute. You’re cute. Seriously, how do you stand being that fucking cute? If I looked as cute and pretty as you do? I’d be a nightmare. You think I fixate on my looks now? I’d be in every outfit in the book, showing myself off to people, demanding everyone acknowledge how fucking amazing I looked all the time. You’re, like...breathtaking. It’s really awful.” Kaito laughed, shaking his head, putting a hand over his heart as he said, “Ooof, the day I proposed? I knew I was doomed when I saw you, babe. All that fire and intelligence in a face that pretty? Shit. No wonder I fell in love so fast.” Kaito snorted. “I never stood a chance.” 

“Hey, I’m gonna at least try to make it look good! I can do that and have fun too, you know!” Kokichi defended himself. Sure, he liked making himself look goofy and ridiculous on purpose, but he wouldn’t do that to anyone else if it's not what they wanted. Though...Kaito was kind of asking for exactly that when he asked Kokichi to cut his hair for fun so…

Eh, well, it’d be fun to give it a real shot, then just go nuts if he couldn’t get it right. Kaito would be getting it fixed either way. 

And at least when it came to Kokichi himself, at least Kaito didn’t mind the style. Giggling lowly, Kokichi had this little pleased expression on his face as he affirmed, “I’m cute!” 

“But I just...don’t really think about it that often, I guess. Always more important things going on than to remember I have an appearance. Sometimes that I have a body, but I’m working on that,” he huffed before giving Kaito a teasing smile. And it was easier not to skip meals or work into the night when he had people holding him accountable. 

Though… 

Kokichi hummed thoughtfully, pressing his head against Kaito’s arm again. “...when did you fall in love with me? ‘Cause you might think back on it fondly now, but I doubt either of us were happy at that proposal. Looking back, I’m kinda surprised that you weren’t meaner to me, since, you know…”

“...but even if it didn’t start out great, I’m happy for it. Bein’ together with lovely Kai-chan…”

Kaito snorted. “Oh, trust me, I am so relieved I wasn’t meaner to you too. Because we both know how much of a bastard I can be, when I’ve got my mind set on it. But…” Kaito looked into the sky, watching the sky change colors. While the blue had been fading into white on the wagon ride here, now the pressure of the sun starting to set was turning the sky into an lovely blend of orange and purples. It was nice… “I really, really wanted to like you, ‘Kichi. I...I really, really hated the idea of…”

Kaito frowned. Then he sighed, rubbing a hand over his face as he said, “I mean...I didn’t want to...um…” Kaito couldn’t bring himself to talk about his fears of sleeping with someone who hated him. Who he hated himself. His fears that his first time with Kokichi would feel like he was raping him.

Because...well….

“...I just wanted to like you. I even had a plan! I called it the ‘Woo Kokichi’ plan! It...did not work!” Kaito said cheerfully, laughing at the memory as he said, “It’s in Shuichi’s journal, but me, Maki and him all brainstormed these ideas of ways I could get you to like me? We didn’t end up doing any of them because child assassination plots kinda took up most of our time, but I think one of those ideas was buying you a pet? And another was taking you on a hot air balloon ride… I’m not sure why that one made the list, looking back. I don’t even know where to find a hot air balloon in Dicea. And another was getting you books, but like, they had to be rare, hard to find books, to impress you, because at the time I thought you had all the same resources the Luminary family did, so I assumed if you didn’t have a book already, it’s because you didn’t want it...”

“...but I didn’t love you when I was working on the plan.” Kaito admitted, looking somewhat guilty at the confession. “I didn’t even really...like you then… I wanted to! I tried...but I didn’t.”

There was a small pause, as Kaito thought back to the beginning of all this, trying to reason it out to himself...before saying, “I’m not sure when I first started to like you, or when I first started to love you. I mean, I know I started feeling protective of you the day we went to go hide in the observatory. I knew you were important to me, that day. One of ‘mine’.” Kaito said, still feeling a shock of rage, when he thought of how furious he had felt when Chisa had dared, had dared… and Kaito had been furious, more than just because of duty, or out of decency, but because how dare she do that to Kokichi… “...but I was trying so hard to like you that I don’t really remember when ‘trying’ turned into ‘genuinely liking’. Maybe when you and I talked at your window...when I confessed how easy to trick I am. Maybe then…”

“But! I remember the first time I noticed that I was falling in love with you was during our first ‘lying’ game.” Kaito grinned, looking back at the memory fondly as he said, “When I got back with Shuichi and Maki? And we told each other pretty stories, and you were so sweet and fun and… you felt so vulnerable, playing our game. You kept getting this look on your face. This small little stutter of breath, like you were opening up something important and fragile to me, and while I didn’t entirely understand what it was at the time, I remember just… how… much I loved you for that. For that openness. For letting me touch something so vulnerable in you...I wanted to be worthy of it. And realizing that, made me notice that I was falling in love with you. Was in love with you.”

Kaito sighed, running his free hand around his neck, massaging the muscle as he said, “I know that’s weird. We barely knew each other. Even for me, that was falling in love quick. But, well...it’s how I felt.”

“Even there Kai-chan was sweeter than me,” Kokichi sighed. He hadn’t been concerned with liking Kaito at all, more focused on just...surviving what their marriage would be, and then finding out the assassin. Then making sure their would-be assassin would be okay, though Kokichi had nothing to do with what Kaito had done for Tim. He hadn’t even been awake for it. 

But by that time...maybe Kokichi had been more concerned with liking Kaito. He knew that he would be open to working together, at least. Tolerating each other. Being able to live in the situation their parents had put them in. “Honestly...I think I was more jealous of your friendship with Shuu-chan and Maki-chan than thinking about our relationship in any capacity.”

A friendship that had apparently included brainstorming ideas to get Kokichi to like Kaito more. He giggled at the ideas, glad that Kaito hadn’t gone with the pet idea, since they ended up with more than enough responsibility on their plates, but...it was still a nice thought. 

Kokichi dimmed a bit at the reminder of that morning. By that time...he trusted Kaito, at least a little. Could rely on him. Was...awful at being relied on. He still wasn’t sure about that theory he’d talked to Maki about all that time ago, that Chisa had been on spores, but...either way, something was wrong with her. And Kaito had just asked him to look out for manipulation...but he’d still messed it all up. 

...though...he probably wouldn’t be rid of the nightmares if Kaito had killed her. In all likelihood...he’d just feel guilty for her death.  

Kokichi sighed softly, but brought a soft smile back as he held Kaito’s hand. “...I remember feeling good that night too. I was so nervous...but you came to visit me, and...I remember thinking that getting married to a stranger wasn’t going to be so scary if it was you. We didn’t know each other but...I had the sense that we’d make it work. Guess I got the right impression then.”

Kokichi looked up at Kaito adoringly, his face flushed (and not just because of the memory of the game they’d played). “That wasn’t the only thing I was opening up, Kai-chan. We didn’t know then, but...I don’t know if I can really have sex without it being super emotional for me. And while I wish we’d waited until you were doing better that time...I liked that time too. I like being so vulnerable and open with you...being close with you. There’s thoughts I wish even I didn’t have to hear but...I wanna share everything with you. And when we spend time like that...that’s what it feels like for me.”

“I’ve never been in love before you...but I think it feels wonderful, and I’m happy it happened. Think I was right in calling what I feel love.”

Kaito found that idea a little curious, the one about not being able to be sexual without being emotional. He never considered himself un-emotional during sex, and in fact considered it a great way to show affection...but he had a feeling Kokichi meant something more than that. He thought about the day they had taken Shuichi to bed. He wondered if his husband had been taking a risk in that moment, or had already known how he’d come to feel about Shuichi. There was something nice and comforting in the idea that Kokichi had already known… but there was something extremely admirable, Kaito found, in the idea that it might have been a risk. Kokichi willing to sacrifice something of himself, for someone Kaito cared so deeply about.

… he wouldn’t ask. Kaito had given up… a lot to be in Dicea. To be the kind of husband Kokichi deserved. He knew it was selfish, but he took comfort in the idea, even if it was imaginary, that Kokichi had been willing to give some of that back. He’d hold onto it, if just to warm himself during harder times.

Kaito grinned down at his husband, saying gently, “I’d hope so… I know I said before that it’s okay if you didn’t love me back, but I’ll be honest, I was so relieved and ecstatic when you said you did… I’ve always wanted to be in a relationship with someone I loved. I always thought relationships where the two people clearly couldn’t stand each other were heartbreaking. I never understood why they stayed.”

Looking around, making certain no one was around that would embarrass his husband to be seen by, Kaito quicked his step a little, expertly moving himself around Kokichi and, gently, but firmly, moving Kokichi’s steps to the side, he moved them against a tree, Kokichi’s back pushed against the bark of a large, brown oaked, golden leafed apple tree, Fallen apples were littered around their feet, giving off their strong, friendly aromas. The wind whistled through the leaves above, some still clinging on into this end of fall, a few falling around their ears.

“...I’m glad I stayed.” Kaito said, looking down at Kokichi, hands on either side of his face,  gently pulling his mask down. “When it got hard...when it got really, really hard...I’m glad I stayed. I’m glad I didn’t run. I love you, ‘Kichi…”

And he leaned down, chastly kissing at him. Nothing feverish or forceful or urgent in it. Just Kaito, wanting to express love in the way best suited for him.

Kokichi kept saying and thinking it, but...they really were some of the lucky ones, being in an arranged marriage and loving each other too. He knew it wasn’t all bad, that your betrothed could become your best friend (which Kokichi had thought was going to be their case before his feelings bloomed), and he knew that love that was worked on from scratch rather than from passion could become wonderful relationships as well. 

But there were so many cases he’d read about where the partners in an arranged marriage were just...strangers for years, or even worse, hated each other. Obligation could be a powerful force and...now knowing more how traditional monarcal societies worked, security went along with it...but it was still sad. Having to be around someone you despised. 

Kokichi looked up in slight surprise as Kaito started pushing him, tripping over his feet a little before he adjusted to the new cadence, but as Kaito looked over him, surrounded by golden leaves and apples in the dusk…

...it was better than any romantic dream. 

Kokichi kissed his husband back, tasting his lips and still finding traces of that sweet, boozy taste, but Kaito’s natural taste permeating. He cupped Kaito’s jaw, holding his husband gently, but full of tender affection, beckoning him in. 

“I love you… I was so afraid you’d run...you had such good reasons to. You still do, honestly…” Kokichi sighed against Kaito’s lips. “But I’m glad you stayed… I’m...I’m glad I’m worth staying for, to you… And I want to make a place where you don’t feel like you want to run. I want to make a home for us…”

Kaito laughed at that, not mocking. Just happy, laughing lightly into Kokichi’s kiss, putting his arms around Kokichi’s waist and picking him up, leaning him against the tree as he kissed him, over and over. Kaito felt flushed and warm and good. After this they’d go back on a wagon and go back through the field and at the end of that ride his friends would be waiting, his family.

And Kaito would insist Timothy finally give Kimiko the bear he had been holding onto all day, to help his son get his nerves for his young, childish attempt at flirting. And he’d check in with Maki and make sure she knew they were okay and things were okay and she had done a good job. And he’d look after Shuichi, and he’d kiss at Shuichi’s cheeks even as his ex-detective chastised him, because he knew Shuichi got lonely and insecure whenever Kaito backed off of him, and Kaito wanted to make him feel loved and wanted more than anything. And later that night, he’d take the stethoscope around his neck and quietly listen to that thump, thump, thump…

And he’d turn to Kokichi, listening to that little heart beat, and say “The baby says hello!” and his husband would either smile or make some snarky comment or gently say hello to the baby back and…

Yeah.

Kaito broke the kiss, sighing as he let them both catch their breath, staring at Kokichi as he whispered, “It’s okay, ‘Kichi… nothing could convince me to run. I’m yours as long as you’ll have me. I promise…”

They were still on the main path, still within their time limit, but...something about this moment felt so...secluded. A private, secret little moment in time, just for the two of them. Just Kaito’s lips on his, kissing again and again, each one filled with love. 

They were better together. Kaito had said it ages ago, but the two of them were amazing together. And when the four of them were together, Shuuichi and Maki too? There was nothing that they couldn’t do. No limit. 

Kokichi breathed heavily for a moment, too caught up in the kisses to breathe, but not for a second was the adoration in his eyes second to anything. “And I promise to be yours in return… When we spoke to Atua at our binding ceremony, when we declared our consent to marry...I’m yours, Kai-chan. And while I get insecure sometimes...at my core, that never changes. You’re one of my favorite people in the world, and I’m going to always do whatever I can for you...I’m dedicated to you.”

“...I know what that means to each of us doesn’t always translate,” he murmured with a slightly melancholic smile. “But...that promise means a lot to me, at least. And to be by your side, to see you flourish… For Kai-chan’s smile, there’s nothing that’s gonna stand in my way. In part, because I’ll be with the whole ton of other people who love Kai-chan too, but also because I’m never gonna stop reaching for that goal. You’re mine, and I’m yours, and if we each keep pulling each other up and forward...we’re always gonna get somewhere, and no one’s gonna be left behind.”

They stayed like that for a while.

Murmuring back and forth pretty things and reassurances. Promises to stay, promises to be dedicated, a few soft promises to be better, made with fragile smiles and gentle touches. After awhile, Kaito put his husband down, and the two watched the sky change colors a bit, before Kaito glanced down at his watch and sighed. “We should catch the next wagon back. Maki will worry if we push it any later.”

Kokichi followed up his husband’s sigh, but...he was right. They’d promised. Even if he could easily spend another hour here, even as the sky darkened into night…

Nodding, Kokichi looked around for a moment and found a golden fallen leaf, still crisp and slightly springy, though it was dead. Carefully, he tucked it into the flower of his hair before holding his hand out to Kaito and pushing his mask back up. “There. We have something to remember this by now, right?”

It wasn’t a long walk back to the drop-off area, and Kokichi waved back to Riley and Danielle, able to see them from where they were waiting, just...feeling warmth and peace and reassurance. And a whole lot of love. 

“Mm… Are you good? Can’t imagine you’d be cold in that coat...but you didn’t really have dinner, did you? Maybe we should stop for food for the folks who haven’t been constantly fed all day, then we can see the pumpkins…”

As the wagon approached, just by chance getting the same guy they had gotten before, though there were many wagons coming and going, Kaito helped Kokichi up the back, giving the driver a wave before the older man disappeared to the front, as Kaito wondered….

...oh, shit. Yeah. “I don’t think I’ve eaten anything today.” Kaito realized, trying to think back through the morning. He had gotten Shuichi some breakfast to eat after his workout, something light, but filled with protein to keep his boyfriend steady. But he hadn’t thought to grab anything for himself, getting changed into his costume while Shuichi ate. He had told himself he’d eat throughout the day, but, well, one thing had led to another…

….and almost as if his stomach had been waiting for Kaito to just notice what was up, his stomach offered up a very annoyed guurghllll.

Kaito laughed loudly, a little embarrassed and trying to cover it up as he rubbed the back of his neck, saying, “I mean, I’m not, like, hungry hungry! But, yeah!! I could get a snack! That’d be nice!”

Looking over to Kokichi, he frowned slightly, noting the red in Kokichi’s cheeks as he said, “Are you sure you’re not cold, babe? You’re looking a little red in the face.”

Kokichi settled himself down in the hay comfortably, looking forward to the slight rumble of the cart’s movements, though he sighed at Kaito’s admittance. Shaking his head a little, he whined, “Kaiiii-chaaaaan! Eating’s such a big part of Harvest, not to mention that you get on my case all the time for not eating. ‘Kay, we’ll get you some dinner when we get back, and I can definitely recommend things. I’m still pretty full, but I might grab something small…”

Giggling quietly, Kokichi pressed the back of his hand against a cheek, giving Kaito an amused look. “And good thing I did eat so much, ‘cause then I’d be more than a little tipsy right now.” Another small giggle before he explained, “Like...that cider wasn’t water, but it wasn’t super strong...but I’m also tiny with a low tolerance, and I had two glasses, along with all the shots of stuff I had earlier…”

“I’m a little tipsy.”

“A little,” he affirmed once more, just to be thorough. “Not enough that it’s gonna be a big thing, or that I’ll put myself in danger or anything, so you an’ Maki-chan don’t have to worry, alright? We’ll get you food, see the pumpkins and meet up with Cali and Kimiko again, and that’s all stuff I definitely still have the capabilities for. M just gonna prolly sleep real good tonight.”

“Whaaaa’? No way! My sweet husband’s wasted!?” Kaito said, gaping at him, before scooting hurriedly over to him, looking closely at Kokichi, his gaze entirely analyzing, before his face broke out into a snicker as he reached over and poked his husband lightly between the eyes. “You deviant. Getting all drunk and stuff on me. Oh, should we get you any, like, hangover remedies for you before we get home?”

Kaito leaned back into the hay with Kokichi, resting his hands on his ribs as he said cheerfully to his husband, “Actually, yeah! My next question! Any, like, drinking stories? Anything fun you’d be up to sharing?”

“Noooo, you’d be able to tell if I got wasted,” Kokichi huffed, though it soon turned into a fond laugh as he laid back with Kaito. “I’m not gonna get a hangover from this either. ‘M just warm and a little floaty, s’all.”

While Kokichi was still speaking off the cuff, what his mouth decided to go ahead with fit in pretty well for answering Kaito’s question. “Like, when I actually get drunk? Real chatty and reminicy, touchy too. Apparently up for taking acrobatics requests, though that’s a real bad idea…” 

Kokichi snickered, shaking his head. “So, like, I barely ever get drunk, right? Don’t like drinking. And I only became of age this summer, soooooo…” He narrowed his eyes accusingly at Kaito. “Why ever would you think I have any stories like that? Kai-chan really thinks I’d indulge in underage drinking… What’s next, thinking I’ve gotten high underage too?”

Another little laugh. “I’ve gotten drunk at fancy dinners sometimes, mostly by accident, and those stories aren’t very fun. But a few times, Lake-chan an’ I would find some empty room in the castle, and she’d bring drinks up. Never let me go too hard, but...I mean, it’s kinda good to get super drunk, at least once, though I’m gonna insist on at least trying to have it be after you’re of age…” Kokichi sighed, thinking of all the kids he would have to be a better influence on. “But...it’s good to know where your limit is and just...what you get like, right? And I get chatty and cuddly and all that.”

“...she dared me to do a cartwheel when I was sloshed one time,” he snickered. “Toooooootally fell on my ass.”

“Awwww, my little deviant ‘Kichi.” Kaito gushed, fruitlessly reaching over to take some of the hay straws out of his husbands hair, snickering as he realized it was somewhat of a lost cause as Kokichi wiggled happily on the hay some more, more straws getting caught up into Denji’s hard work. 

He laughed at the story of the cartwheel, doing his favorite thing as he leaned back to imagine what that had been like. He tried to picture a skinnier, smaller Lake (though he supposed this story probably actually wasn’t that long ago, so maybe not that much skinnier), cheerfully, if drunkenly, shouting Kokichi on into a cartwheel that had probably felt far more spinny than Kokichi had actually managed before hurling his guts out. And they had done that a few times, huh? Man…

Poor Lake. Kaito really hoped Kokichi kept his promise to talk to her. Kaito couldn’t imagine how hurt he’d feel, trying that hard to bond with someone, who didn’t view your relationship as authentic or on equal footing. Working that hard to be close to someone who never saw you as someone really capable of deciding for themselves...

(...no. He knew how that felt. He could imagine it.)

( He wished Byakuya had ever even come close to trusting Kaito with...literally anything…)

“Chatty and cuddly, huh? I could be up to seeing that. Quick, is there any more cider around?” Kaito asked, making a show of looking around, as if cider would magically appear behind the wagon. When none miraculously showed up, Kaito made a show of sighing, whispering “Damn. Ah well…” before leaning back down and looking up... his heart warmed as he said softly. “Eyyy, look at that. The stars are starting to come out…”

Kokichi snorted, pushing playfully at Kaito’s arm. “Hey, c’mon--you’ll see me drunk one of these days, but not tonight. I’m trying very hard to not give Maki-chan any pre-mature aneurysms. And, hey, maybe sometime we’ll all drink together, scaling up what Lake-chan and I used to do. She did get Maki-chan that nice bottle of whiskey, and an offer to go drinking sometime.”

Settling down onto Kaito, Kokichi looked up at the sky, the horizon still painted with a few streaks of colorful light, but the majority of it a dark blue now, getting darker. And, sure enough, you could see the twinkles of light up above, the stars as sure and consistent as the seasons. 

“Mm… Still really wanna have that observatory date with Kai-chan,” he hummed, snuggling against Kaito. “Seein’ the sky and looking through the telescope to get a good look at something interesting… S’been years, so they might be a little different, but we could probably find a star map of the date, an’ see how it compares to the sky, trying to find the stuff on it…”

“We could bring extra blankets up too. Make it so I’m not stealin’ all of Kai-chan’s heat and leavin’ him cold. Think Shuu-chan would like it too...he seemed interested in reading some of my mom’s old work…”

“Pff, did he? Sounds like him. Shuichi’s so nosy.” Kaito huffed, rolling his eyes, “What’s that word for...feeling a compulsion to steal stuff? Klep...kleptomaniac? Kleptomaniac! He’s that, but for information. He just… collects information, even if no one wants him too. Ya know…. One time, I found out by accident that Shuichi knew all the letter grades of Fuyuhiko’s classes? And, like… I started asking him the current grades of a bunch of students after that? Randomly? Like, months apart, people we had never spoken too, in entirely different grades and classes? And Shuichi always knew. He always knew. He was constantly sneaking into the school records just to look at peoples grades, for no reason.”

Kaito sighed, shaking his head a little as he said, “It worried me, a little bit. I was worried he’d get into trouble, but, ya know, if he had ever been caught, I’d have sanctioned it to get him out of it. And I don’t know. He seemed so proud to always know when asked. It kinda became a game between us.” 

A kleptomaniac for information...that sounded about right. Kokichi snorted softly, a fond look on his face, the one he usually got when they talked about Shuuichi. Very sweet, and very sneaky. Nosy for his own purposes, just...because he liked knowing things. Not for an initial purpose, though he certainly was proud to know when people asked questions. 

“Mm, I hadn’t heard that story, but from what Shuu-chan told me about finding information, that sounds very like him. I guess it was part of his job, but for things he wasn’t tasked with...finding out things about people is super a hobby for him!” And while Kokichi knew about the blackmailing...here? In Dicea? As long as Shuuichi wasn’t planning on using the information he had to hurt people--and Kokichi knew that wasn’t the reason Shuuichi collected it in the first place--it would continue to be a cute hobby of his too smart boyfriend. 

“You know, he had to look through a bunch of stuff ‘cause the secretaries asked him to when you all first got here… But Shuu-chan told me that there was some stuff he could just...have fun with. Silly stuff. Considering there’s not much he’d have to sneak around to get into when it comes to our records, I have a feelin’ Shuu-chan’s gonna know random stuff about everyone before too long.” Kokichi giggled softly, thinking of what he figured was Tomomi’s arrest report. “Or really get on Yuliya-chan’s bad side. She hates it when people try to take records themselves, since apparently they never put it back quite right…”

“Well, hopefully he doesn’t...I don’t know. I worry about him. I worry about Maki too. I mean, neither of them are doing anything that would piss anyone off here,” Kaito believed, “But man...wow. Sometimes it was near misses, keeping those two alive and out of jail. I remember one night, just, someone pounding on my door at, like, two in the morning, right? This was like my first year of university, and I had just had this fight with Kore, and I’m thinking, great, Kore’s come by on a bender to try to ‘work it out’ again.” Kaito sighed, thinking of the less than stellar aspects of his otherwise decent breakup with Korekiyo. Kore was always super calm and collected, right up until it was the middle of the night and he had it in his head that he could fix everything by the morning. 

“So, I’m getting up fighting mad, thinking I needed to go tell Kore to go home again, and I open up the door, and it’s fucking one of the housekeepers from the castle! Didn’t know her well or anything, but a nice enough girl, I’d seen her around for a few years. And she’s just out of breath, she ran the whole way from the castle to my apartment, god, I really can’t say enough how fucking out of her way this girl went...man I wish I remembered her name. I gave her gold, of course, but wow, she really did save us. Anyway, she ran to the apartment, because Maki had been found and caught in one of the nobles houses, right? Like, caught caught, not just seen and rumored. They had her. And the lord fucking had her dragged to the castle to demand from my father what the fuck she had been sent there for. Buuuut, here’s the thing...no one sent her. She had decided to go on her own as a….ugh…” Kaito huffed, rubbing his hand over his eyes, “as a fucking training excersice. These people were going to kill her, but Maki had heard they had updated their security system to the top models, and just had to test herself against it.”

“So, the noble’s demanding to know why my father’s trying to have his family killed, my father’s getting increasingly angry because he knew nothing about the mission, and if it comes out that Maki was doing things without orders, boom, she’s getting executed, right? So the housekeeper, trying to save Maki, came to get me before anything had been decided, and I’m running to the castle in my damn night clothes, and I have to come up with some fucking story that would justify me sending Maki into this guys home without my family basically declaring war on his…” Kaito sighed, chuckling weakly at the memory, “So I burst into the room saying I had told Maki to go scout out the best way to sneak into the house, because I was trying to sneak around with their son, Saber.”

“And holy shit, Kokichi, was that a gamble. Because Saber barely knew me by this point! We had chatted a few times, flirted a bit, yeah. But the only way this was going to work without it absolutely blowing up in my face was if Saber was willing to tell his hyper paranoid, hyper protective father that, yes, he was expecting me to sneak in at some point so we could fool around, and I had tasked Maki with finding a safe way to do so. And thank fuck when Saber had been called in to confirm my story? The guy didn’t so much as flinch. Just was all, ‘yep, yep, sorry father, we didn’t want anyone to know, me and Kaito have been seeing each other, yes, yes, I’m so sorry, it won’t happen again.’...fuck. God dammit Maki...she was so close to being executed that night for no reason other than to challenge herself. Fuck.”

Despite his looser lips, Kokichi kept quiet as Kaito told a story from home, finding himself just...enraptured with the high stakes tension of it. He did like it much better as a story than reality, yeah, and he was worried for Maki (and Shuuichi, this just being an example of what life had been), but...well, it was a great story. 

The bravery of that housekeeper, doing everything they could to get to Kaito so Maki would be safe, Kaito looking at all the pieces of the situation and finding a way to resolve everything peacefully, that Saber guy, willing to play along to save someone’s life… 

For as awful as Luminary society was, the reason Maki felt that she needed to challenge herself like that, the reason Kaito had needed to save her… It was weird, in a way. Kokichi had gone from thinking of Luminaries as just people with a different perspective, to either being victims of a horrific system or the perpetrators of it, to...he didn’t know. People. There were some genuinely bad apples, and his opinion of how things were run in Luminary hadn’t changed, but for the people themselves...even among the people who had more power than most, there were still people kind and caring, willing to do what they could in tight constraints to make their world a little brighter, if only for a moment, or for one person. 

“...Kai-chan’s really smart…” Kokichi hummed after a few moments, reaching up to brush a few stray hairs back into the fold of his husband’s ‘do. “Really brave, too. I bet a lot of people thought that was really cool, that you were an amazing hero, figuring all that out. I’m in awe, and I wasn’t even there.”

Kaito couldn’t help but let out a small, self depricating ‘pfff’ at that, as he said dryly, “A lot of people thought I was a real dumb slut. The kind of idiot who’d literally utilize the royal assassin trying to get some tail for a night. I mean, yeah, plenty of people knew the story wasn’t true. But the people who mattered? …” Kaito frowned, that having come out of his mouth without him thinking about it. Giving Kokichi a guilty look, he amended, “I mean...I mean in the sense of like, the elites and our parents and all that...everyone who could just, ya know, say things and shit happened. Powerful people. The story had to fool them, so, ya know...it helped that’s what they thought I was like anyway.”

Kaito chuckled, shaking his head a little as he said, ‘But, for everyone else… yeah. I guess that was pretty cool. And, like, at least the staff knew to come to me for stuff like that, ya know? I didn’t have a lot of influence with the elites or anything like that, but, well, I was still a prince. If the prince going around giving indentureds and servants ‘dumb orders’, well, it’s not their fault they had to listen to me. So, being the kind of guy people believed would mis-use people like that became a really, really handy trick to getting my friends out of trouble. You can’t punish someone for something I’ve told them to do…”

Kaito watched as the Witch’s Hand started peeking through the fog of the setting sky, and said, “Man, though...if you didn’t know me? My reputation back home was crazy, Kokichi. If people didn’t think I was a total buffoon, they thought I was some crazy super-villain, or some future mad tyrant. Especially being so closely connected to ‘The Boogieman’ and, well...ya know? I don’t think Maki ever got a nickname? At least not one I ever heard about. Maybe because it’s usually commoners that do stuff like that. Or maybe her nickname among the elite was never said around me. But yeah, depending on who you asked? I was insane, Shuichi basically ran the dungeons under the castle himself, and Maki was a violent, nightmare sadist leaving bodies behind everywhere she went.”

Kaito rolled his eyes. “Those reputations really, really worked against us sometimes. I mean, I like to think it discouraged plenty of people from messing with us to begin with, but the ones who had decided to do it? Waaaaaay overcompensated, based on our reputations. We’d get, just, randomly ambushed, facing way more people than was ever necessary, or be lured into these traps, or have these crazy, like, power moves played on us, for people trying to get back at us for things that barely had anything to do with us. Like, crazy stuff, for literally dealing with a bunch of twenty year olds who had literally no influence over anything. It was insane. We were lucky the guardforce was as effective as they were, we’d have been screwed so many times without the help. Most of those fights were just us trying to hold people back long enough for literally anyone to arrive...”

Kaito frowned. “...I’m sorry. I just realized how bleak this all is. I didn’t mean start rambling about stuff like this…”

“That’s why Kai-chan was so smart,” Kokichi hummed. “Because...in a way, the people who “mattered”, the people with influence...are the ones who mattered the least. And you knew exactly how to cater to their preconceived notions, and knew exactly how to get through the situation with everyone who actually mattered safe. Doing something like that is...incredible, to me.”

In some ways, it was a lot easier to treat everyone equally. While you still did have to investigate everything thoroughly, once you had the facts? The case was done. You just followed the flow-chart as it pertained to everyone’s willingness to cooperate. Having to play a game of pretend that you couldn’t let certain people know was pretend, well...it would be fascinating, if it didn’t equate to people’s lives being held in the precarious balance. 

Kokichi looked up at the sky, angry and hateful at Luminary...but appreciating its people more and more each day. “Mm...being able to use your reputation to your advantage, to save people who didn’t have much power in certain situations… My heroic Kai-chan. Powerful and brilliant.”

That did come with its own downsides. Shuuichi being nicknamed after a children’s story monster...whatever Maki’s had been certainly hadn’t been kinder. Being in such...constant danger… For things that they didn’t do, never had a hand in, people making snap judgements… 

No wonder his friends were so scared all the time. 

Taking one of Kaito’s hands, Kokichi brought it up to kiss, forgetting he was wearing a mask for a moment and giggling to himself before just...holding it, holding Kaito’s hand over his heart. “...maybe it’s bleak, but it was your life. You can’t erase history just because it’s uncomfortable or depressing sometimes. That was reality for you guys...and because I care about you, then, I wanna hear it. Because it was a part of you, and I wanna know all those parts.”

“But…” He squeezed Kaito’s hand softly. “...I hope you guys don’t have to be scared anymore. I know there’s a long way to go to make life less scary...but that’s my goal, anyway.”

Kaito wanted to say he wasn’t scared here...but even he recognized that it was far, far too late to convince Kokichi of that particular falsehood. 

Which witch finger could he see tonight… well, he could see all of them, at the moment, but the other four would fade as the night overtook and the other stars outshone them. Which finger would it be...late fall? Might be the middle finger for wealth. Or maybe the index finger for success… he couldn’t remember…

It was nice, laying with Kokichi under a blossoming night sky. “We should do this more often.” Kaito found himself saying, rather than answering anything about his paranoia’s here. He’d get over those someday...right? He had too…

“...I don’t know how you do it, ‘Kichi.” Kaito said, smiling slightly as he saw the planet Thados suddenly pierce through the atmosphere. It was bright tonight. You could even see its red coloring. Wow… “I know you have your...issues. I know you didn’t get out of your childhood unscathed. But I’d have lost my mind, in your shoes. I definitely… I mean, I definitely couldn’t have coped with what you went through. I know, I know, it wasn’t as...as bad as I thought it was, when I first got here. But man… that doesn’t make your life easy in comparison…”

Even aside from all the cultural differences...it wasn’t as safe as Kokichi had always thought. They had the eye of a multinational terrorist organization, and while they were working on completely neutralizing the RoD’s main way of conversion and terror (at least in Dicea) and it didn’t look like there were any more Remnants in Dicea, now that Itch, Tom, and Aba were apprehended… They still had to be cautious, if others were just hiding, and even if there weren’t any more Remnants in Dicea, decisively? Then...that still meant they were basically stuck in the country, since there were still Remnants elsewhere. Bolder groups, committing vast acts of murder-suicide, not having to play the long game of Despair Pollen. 

Even just that was enough to be scared. But Kaito and the others...they were dealing with so much more than that. Anti-Luminary sentiment in general, and also directed at Kaito and Kokichi’s marriage, the almost 180 on ethics and justice… Being a parent, though that was a fear that...at this point, Kokichi figured they were all embracing. 

(And even if he would respect that Kaito felt there was something about Byakuya to admire...he couldn’t imagine that their relationship was bereft of fear, and not the kind where you’d worry for someone because you cared about them. And even if there wasn’t...even from an outsider’s perspective, the way Byakuya talked about Kaito was just...hurtful.)

Kokichi sighed softly, quiet for a few moments. 

“...you know I almost didn’t. And...I don’t think I would’ve been able to cope in your shoes either. When you tell stories about your childhood and even stuff from just a few years ago...it always amazes me, how incredible Kai-chan is to have made it through. And not only that but...to be who you are on the other side. If you think of me like that, then…” Kokichi suddenly laughed, a soft, squeaky little thing. “That’s too flattering, you know? Geez...my husband thinks so highly of me.”

“Nah, my stuff was easy. I had Maki and Shuichi and Byakuya and Kaede all looking after me, plus tons and tons and tons of other people...I never really felt lost or on my own or like I didn’t know what was going to happen next, ya know? That’s what sounds scary to me about your life. I mean...there were the things with Tengan, sure, but my brother made that stop, eventually, and after that? Life was...a lot of fun. Like, really! I had...I had a lot of fun.” Kaito said, thinking fondly about it all. “There were down moments, of course. There always are. But all the stuff in between it? It was a lot of fun…”

“...your life sometimes sounds like it was just a lot of...really long stretches of sadness with a few up moments in between them. And fuck, ‘Kichi, that breaks my heart. You deserved better than all that. You deserve to have fun…”

Kaito’s brow suddenly furrowed, and he sat up, looking down at Kokichi seriously as he said, “That’s the goal! I’ve decided!! I can’t...I can’t stop bad things from happening to you! I’m trying, but I can’t, and I’m...fuck I’m so sorry about that! But!!” 

Kaito reached out to take Kokichi’s hand, pulling him up, and placing his hands on both sides of Kokichi’s shoulders, squeezing them firmly as he said, sincerity in every word, “I want those moments to be the exceptions! That’s what I want for you, ‘Kichi! I want to make certain that when things aren’t bad, they’re good! Not just… okay, or an acceptable level of bad! They’re good! That you’re good! I want you to have fun!”

Kaito stared sterny at Kokichi, a passion running through his veins at the declaration...before a grin broke out of that, Kaito looking exceptionally pleased with himself and grinning wide, having worked out for himself another small piece of what he wanted to do with his new life here. “So I’m gonna do my best, okay? And I’m gonna need you to do your best too! Happiness doesn’t just happen, it’s a fucking concentranted effort! It’s good habits and a good mindframe and a willingness to pursue it!! And it should be a fuckton of fun along the way! And I can’t force that on ya, but damn it, I can help ya get it if you want it! What do you say, ‘Kichi? Are we gonna do it!! Are you in this with me!!?”

...things were easier with people around you, that was super, super true. But still...Kokichi couldn’t imagine himself being able to do even a fraction of the things Kaito and Shuuichi and Maki talked about of their pasts. It was amazing and impressive, and even for the horrible things they had to do...they had likely saved a lot of people too. 

Sighing again, Kokichi squeezed Kaito’s hand. “It probably sounds worse than it was since I tend to dwell on the bad stuff--happens to come up more in conversation, at least ones we’ve had. And...while I did sometimes get sick for long stretches...it wasn’t always that bad. It gave me a lot of time to read and pick up new hobbies.”

...but just because they weren’t bad times didn’t mean they were particularly good. Even if he’d spent his time doing things he enjoyed...he was still sick. Still trapped in his room and unable to do any of the active things he wanted. 

And, as Kaito pointed that out, Kokichi’s eyes widened, partly in surprise from being hefted up from his comfy spot against Kaito’s side, but just… His face flushed a little deeper before Kokichi grinned brightly, that same full of joy smile that lit up his face. 

“Are you kidding? Of course!”

Leaning in to boop his nose against Kaito’s (and missing a little), Kokichi beamed at his husband. “Kai-chan’s already been helping me with that. I say it all the time, and I’ll keep saying it--Kai-chan is good at fun, and times I’ve spent with you are some of the most fun I’ve ever had. If we wanna keep a good thing going, if we wanna take it to the max?! Then fuck yeah I’m in!”

“Heck yeah!!” Kaito shouted, standing up, the wagon jostling as he lifted Kokichi with him, laughing as he threw his husband into a twirl as he said, “First thing! I gotta teach you how to dance, babe! Like, really dance! It’s good exercise, it makes you feel like you’re flying through the air, and we get to show it off to people later! And you’re so small, I can do this shit real easy!” Kaito said, taking Kokichi by the waist, and, with a spin, lifting him above his head, letting Kokichi’s legs fly for a moment before putting his husband back down in one swift, easy movement. “Oh! And we need to finish that circleworld book together! And we have a ton of dates we need to go on, like the observatory, and the waterfall, and a night hike, ‘Kichi! And we need to drink with Lake, and let Denji fix whatever the fuck you’re going to do to my hair, and we gotta prepare to do better next time we play that weird chess game with Hajime! And-”

The wagon suddenly came to a stop, and the man in teh front said, “Alright, alight, I can’t fucking just ignore it this time.”

Hopping off the front, the old man went around the back, a nervous, angry look on his face as he looked Kokichi over quickly, before turning a frustrated eye to Kaito as he said, “Alright, what are you doing to him!? I’m hearing yelling on the way here, now there’s yelling on the way back, and it feels like you’re tossing him around back here. You listen here you Luminary shi--”

Kokichi squeaked out more giggles as he suddenly found himself on his feet, twirling and then in the air, less worried than he’d normally be about standing in the back of a moving wagon and just...entirely focused on Kaito. On their future together, all the fun things that they wanted to do from small to large. Just...the point of life. There were responsibilities, but the point of those responsibilities was so you could have fun. To have enough time and resources to follow your passions. 

Kokichi had never thought about it too much, but...it was something he’d been lacking in his own life. He had been living...mostly for his obligations. To prove people wrong, to prove others right, to make sure everyone else could have their lives...and only living his own when the boiling point came and he couldn’t take it anymore. 

And now...they were going to change that. 

Laughing openly, Kokichi tried to calm down when the wagon stopped and the driver came around, and he went to apologize but…

“Hey, hey, it’s alright.” His air was still light, but there was a certain...focus in Kokichi’s gaze, even with the alcohol in his system. “You’re right to reprimand us for being too rowdy, sir, but that’s no reason to speak to someone like that. Kai-chan deserves the same respect as everyone else.”

And then his gaze softened. “...though we should be respecting you more. Sorry--we were talking about things we want to do in the future and got a little too excited. You’re kind enough to lend your services to ferrying people around on a holiday, and we should be more respectful of your time and your concern when it comes to safety. We’ll keep seated, and try to keep our voices down--I’m sorry for worrying you.”

The old man clenched his jaw, for a moment unable to stop his glaring look at Kaito, caught up in the protective anger that had compelled him to stop the wagon in the first place...but as Kokichi kept talking, eventually his eyes darted to the smaller prince, listening more intently.

It was hard to keep the anger up, righteous or otherwise, when the ‘victim’ you were trying to protect was talking to you in a soothing, soft, almost sing-song tone. The man wasn’t a bigot… or at least didn’t consider himself one. He wasn’t anti-Luminary. He was just anti-’Luminary who was apparently being rough and angry with their tiny Light of Dicea’...which just happened to sound ‘anti-Luminary’ when said aloud.

But, again, that anger felt a little fruitless when the person you were trying to protect seemed entirely fine, so… the older man calmed down, sucking at his teeth before spitting out some of the angry bile that had clogged the back of his throat onto the ground, before giving Kaito a wary eye… “Yeah, alright. Sorry about that. Thought you lot were tussling back here or some sort. So long as you’re sure you’re alright, Prince Kokichi, guess it’s fine. Ya’ll don’t need to be curled up back here like timid mice, just so long as you’re not fighting like cats.”

Yep! Got it! Not fighting! Just got a little overzealous!” Kaito promised the man, sitting down on the hay. “My bad!”

“...hmmmn.” The man said, before giving Prince Kokichi a respectful nod, heading back to the front of the wagon.

As the wagon started again, Kaito looked up at the sky, which was getting darker and darker… he thought it was the index finger, that being the star shining brightest tonight. Success. Heh. 

Looking over at Kokichi, he grinned. “You think if I asked him to drive the wagon faster, he’d be into it? Or will I end up buried over in the orchards once he’s done cursing me out?”

Kokichi nodded at the other man, laughing softly. “Got it, and thanks for checking up on us. Still, we’ll be more respectful of the ride. Thank you, sir.”

Once they were moving against though, Kokichi rolled his eyes, nudging Kaito more. “Heeeeey, c’mon. It’s getting dark--let’s have fun, but not inspire recklessness, okay? Leave the poor man alone.” As fun as that burst of excitement had been, Kokichi was pretty happy being curled up in Kaito’s arms too. “We’ll be back in time, no need to worry or risk taking the road fast at night.”

“Plus...I get to stay cuddled up to you back here for a little longer, even if I’m starting to get Shuu-chan withdrawals. Gotta smooch his cute face every so often, you know?”

Kaito put both arms around Kokichi, pulling him into his lap (his favorite place for Kokichi to be), nuzzling him and kissing the side of his face through his mask, perfectly content to just shower his husband with affection, still riding his adrenaline high, annoyed wagon guys or not.

Kaito snorted at Kokichi’s conversation choice though, groaning as he said, “Our boyfriends so mean to me, have you noticed that. He definitely likes you more. He gets all huffy and scoldy with me, just because I like to call him lovely things and touch him in lovely places. It’s so hard to hold back for him though! He’s so…~” Kaito just sighed.

Before, snickering, he said, “and I had a hopeless crush on the guy before he got sexy as all fuck, ‘Kichi. Those golden eyes, that sweet, elegant face...and now his body. Holy fuck!” Kaito groaned, resting his face in Kokichi’s neck, “He’s got, like, half an hour glass figure! He’s got booty and hips for fucking days! Fuck! Oh, oh, wait, I mean…” Kaito shot a somewhat guilty look to the front of the wagon, before saying in a more calm voice, “Fuck. God damn our Shuichi got sexy.”

While Kokichi basked in the affection given to him, he wasn’t idle about it, wrapping his arms around Kaito’s waist and nuzzling wherever he could. He laughed lightly at Kaito gushing over Shuuichi, though he patted Kaito’s head. “I know, sweets. I thought Shuu-chan was sexy before, and it’s just a different type now. And...I think you telling him is helping… Like, he does appreciate it on some level. But it’s hard, because he doesn’t really...like his body that much these days.”

Kokichi sighed, remembering holding Shuuichi earlier that day, though it had been over a very different hurt. “It’s not that he just...hates his proportions. But his body changed suddenly, and with it a lot of other things and...it represented a total loss of control. He doesn’t...really feel like his body is his. So when he’s reminded of it… Kai-chan’s helping, by being positive, but Shuu-chan’s still struggling. It’s something he’s working through.”

“...which is gonna get a whole ‘nother layer once Baby gets bigger,” Kokichi mused, pressing his nose against the side of Kaito’s head. “Personally, I’m still gonna think Shuu-chan looks nice, and we know how excited Kai-chan is, but...it’s different when it’s your own body. But...with a good support system, I think that one day Shuu-chan can be comfortable in his body again. It’s just gonna take time.”

Kaito smiled now, a tad sadly, as Kokichi pressed his nose against him, squeezing appreciatively at his waist, grateful for the small touches that made him feel tethered to the world. He wondered how Kokichi had been able to stand it, going through life without clinging onto someone’s body. How Shuichi would ignore all touches other than Kaito’s insistent hugs and Maki’s occasional, reassuring squeeze on his shoulder or arms. Kaito couldn’t even imagine trying. Those touches were so grounding...so comforting…

Which is why he couldn’t touch Kokichi or Shuichi enough. He just wanted them to be okay… especially knowing how much Shuichi was struggling, mentally, likely to this day (if his meltdown outside the haunted house was any indication). 

“... I wish I could just take it from him. The pregnancy, I mean. I’d happily spare him it, if I could...it’s probably not enough to just, like, ask Seiko or whoever to open us both up and move it, right?” Kaito asked...sort of serious, though knowing that thought process likely wouldn’t go anywhere. “It’d be a challenge! How many pushups can I do with the extra load! Actually, I bet the bigger belly would help with pushups, since I could go down less. Situps? Eh, no, that’s a weird thought, I keep imagining the baby getting squished...running! Excellent running challenge!” Kaito exclaimed cheerfully… before saying softly, “It’s okay, it’s okay, I’m just kidding. I just, ya know...like my little daydreams…”

“...do you all have the myths about demons and all that? Like, trading wishes for years, or marriages, or children? Like, not the fairy-tale stuff. But, like…” Kaito paused. Not sure how to describe the difference between stories of fantasy and stories of demons. The way fantasy stories were told whimsically, tongue in cheek, and demons stories were told like...like maybe it was true. Cautionary tales. Stories of what to look for and how to handle when a demon infested your life...tempted you with its magics… “I don’t know. Do you have demon stories?”

Kokichi nodded softly with a little sigh. He did understand the sentiment of wanting to take on some of Shuuichi’s struggles for him (and Kokichi had wished for it for Kaito and Maki too), but in terms of the pregnancy… Even in fanciful thinking, it would kill him. Even before the riot… Kokichi had been told that his mother’s pregnancy was a bit of a struggle, just because of how small she was. And Miyako had been on the chubbier side too--for someone who struggled with their weight in the opposite direction… 

Shuuichi might’ve not been very happy with his weight gain, but part of Kokichi was thankful for it, knowing that it was extra protection both for his boyfriend and their baby. 

Snorting softly, Kokichi poked at Kaito’s cheek. “Hey, there’s nothing stopping you from getting a big belly to train with, you know.” Even if it would kind of be counter intuitive. You could exercise a lot and still have a lot of body fat, of course, but considering Kaito would be starting with his leaner physique...it’d probably just be putting unnecessary strain on his body. 

A type of realism that wasn’t really there in stories of magic. 

“Demon stories? In particular?” Kokichi raised an eyebrow before humming, trying to think of any stories he heard that were demon-focused...but not fairy tales? He tapped at his mask, again forgetting that it was in front of his lips. “Hmmm… Most stories that have demons in them are, yeah, just fairy tales. Demons making bad-faith deals with people looking for easy solutions.”

Kokichi snorted. “Not a demon story, but my dad told this story...I don’t even know how many times. ‘Bout this old Tomte he met back in his home village. I used to think it was just some bedtime story Ikuo made up to teach me lessons, since all the story was was him and the Tomte talking, but I dunno. It all seemed pretty mundane and random to me. Ikuo never posed it as a fairy tale either, but you know how he is.”

Kaito looked curiously at him, distracted from his point (which he hadn’t really had. Just kinda thinking aloud) as he asked, “Well...what did the demon say?” Kaito asked, not entirely certain what a Tomte was, but assuming that Kokichi had brought it up because it was a type of demon that Kaito was just unfamiliar with.

“Mm… So, Tomte’s are...guardians, sorta. In stories, it’s explained that they’re the vestiges of a first farmer’s love and care for the farm, so...they look after the farm and the family. Apparently,” Kokichi rolled his eyes a little, evidently not believing the story his dad had told him, “it thought that Ikuo was bein’ a little shit, messing around with the farm afterdark--classic shit a Tomte deals with. But Daddy had been at a sleepover with his friend who lived there, and had volunteered to go get some firewood and kindling for the night, but got distracted because he saw some baby birds on the ground.”

“The Tomte realized the concern, and just sat with Daddy watching the birds for a while, talking as they tried to see if they were one of those birds that nest in the ground, or if the babies had fallen from a tree nest. Daddy told him about what he knew of his friend’s parents’ plans for the farm, and the Tomte told him about life on one. ‘Bout crop cycles and what to look for when harvesting and animal habits…”

Kokichi snorted softly, shaking his head. “Daddy told me he even learned to make porridge to bring the Tomte. Weird story, right?” 

As far as demon stories went, it certainly lacked some of the cautionary doom and gloom of letting a demon close enough to convince you it was an ally before it could use your body for resources...but-- “Awwwwww.” Kaito gushed, imagining a young Ikou, fussing over baby birds and getting tempted by demonic forces of evil into making it porridge. “That’s cute...”

“...so like...you got any pictures of what your dad looked like young, or…”

“Nn mm.” Kokichi sighed a little, something close to this coming by his mind every now and then. “I’ve never been to Foncett, and my dad didn’t bring any family pictures or anything like that when he moved here. It’s a pretty small village, so unless there was someone in the community who took up art, I don’t know if he has any pictures like that.”

“...”

“...hey, Kai-chan?” Kokichi looked up at the sky, the stars bright and the dark vast. “...once the baby’s born, what do you think about getting a family photo together. With all of us.”

Photography was...difficult. It was expensive and hard to even find a photographer, with all the work and preparation it took to put together a camera and film and a developing area and… But Usot was one of the biggest cultural centers in Dicea so...if they could find someone…

“Damn. Bet he was cute as fuck.” Kaito cursed, missing out on seeing a sweet looking younger Ikou. Well, sweeter looking, anyway. Fucking cutie pie, honestly, it was just so unfair how some people just all the ‘cute’ genes. 

“Huh? Oh, hell yeah! A family photo! That’s a fucking awesome idea babe! Ya know, my mother got a few photographs done! Like, back when they first started really being able to develop them? I can’t remember what they were called, but it was the type where you lift the cover and the light captures the image in front of it and they end up on these metal plate things...they were spooky!” Kaito said cheerfully, remembering finding those photos of his mother fucking terrifying. She had looked dead in them, to his child mind… “But I hear they’ve been coming a long way since then! I bet it’d be a lot of fun!”

As Kaito thought about those spooky old silver photos, he frowned, suddenly saying, “I should ask Byakuya to save those, if it’s not too late. Maybe I could have one...though, um...I mean...I mean, it hasn’t been that long, has it? Since… everything. Maybe he left their rooms alone? They could still be there...”

Kokichi rolled his eyes, ever amused at how cute his husband found his dad. He knew it was mostly the Kaito-goggles, but still. It was funny, when most people tended to describe Ikuo as “terrifying”, at least at first. 

Looking up in interest as Kaito described the photos his mother had done, Kokichi nodded excitedly. “Oh! Yeah! I know what you’re talking about! I’ve only seen ‘em in museums, but...yeah, very surreal. Incredible that you can capture a scene in just a few moments like that...but kinda weird too.”

He giggled a bit, happy to have one person on board for a...a celebration of their family that they could look back on, though...Kokichi calmed, just rubbing Kaito’s side a bit. “It can’t hurt to ask. The people we’ve lost will live on in our memories...but sometimes it’s nice to have something physical to remember them by, right? It’s just...a connection. It’s special.”

...there was a good chance that Byakuya had thrown out everything that wasn’t worth money, though, wanting to be rid of those memories. If he had...Kokichi hoped he’d be able to comfort his husband. Even if Kaito wasn’t allowed to mourn (and Kokichi was still furious about that), maybe...he would be allowed to remember. And they could do something small in the name of remembrance, not drawing attention, and then...Kaito could express some of his grief that way. 

“...you know, she died from grief?” Kaito said suddenly. Staring at the night sky. 

“...she uh...she heard my father had...tripped out the window and her heart failed right there and then, receiving the news...um…” Kaito bit his lower lip for a second, a small twitch in his gaze, something tense in his shoulders for a second...before he relaxed them, saying, “I mean...um...when I left I...me and her had this talk? We had a talk. She was...um….”

Kaito began to pop his joints. Worrying them knuckle by knuckle.

“About what it took to be the spouse of a king? Especially in foriegn territory...did you know my mom was a princess of Novoselic? You probably knew that. She used to visit Luminary every summer, in her teenage years, but she grew up in Novoselic. Novoselic is...we should visit there someday. It has these...cities in the water...like, they’re built in the center of lakes...I’ve been twice. They’re amazing...she moved from a city of water to a desert… um….”

“And dad...was apparently, like… a little in love with someone else. When they got married. So, that was weird...and it made everything kinda weird...mom said that...um... dad would act sometimes like it was her fault, that he didn’t get to...um…”

Kaito blinked at the stars.

“...but! She was so so, so strong, ’Kichi! She didn’t need anyone! You could say or do anything to her, and she’d just fucking set her jaw and square her shoulders and fucking...I never saw her phased! She was… I know she drove Shuichi nuts, but I mean, she wasn’t wrong about some of her conspiracies. And, like, it’s not like she didn’t know what she was doing. She knew that she was being a terror. She was doing it on purpose. Keeping her footing in a floor full of holes…” 

“She was smart and composed and fucking just fierce. It took everything dad and Tengan and all sorts of people had, to keep her under control! I think… I mean… that’s what it looked like…from the outside I mean… she never said much to me, until just before I left.”

“...when I was a kid, she used to comb her fingers through my hair and pretend she didn’t know who I was, asking who let this handsome child into her sitting areas. Someone go fetch his undoubtedly beautiful mother, and I’d giggle and insist to her I was her son, Kaito, and she’d pretend not to understand and play with my hair…”

Kaito stared at the dark spaces between the stars, and said, “It really surprised me. To hear she had died of grief. It sounds like the sort of thing she’d mock someone else for doing… and especially over dad… what a...what a weird thing to say about her...what a weird way for her legacy to end...”

“...that’s all.” Kaito murmured. “I just thought it was weird.”

Kokichi glanced over to Kaito in alarm, but...seeing his husband’s eyes on the sky, he brought his own there too. Trying not to talk too much, to break the calm they were in and...get Kaito’s head to go funny. Make his words stop and just keep them inside, building and hurting with no release. 

...he wanted to be the kind of person Kaito could confide in. Not someone he was scared to talk to. 

Kokichi mostly kept quiet but… “...I’ve heard Novoselic is beautiful. Maki-chan and I talked about traveling this one time and...the way she described it… I can hardly imagine what a sight it must be…” 

He didn’t like Kaito’s parents. From what he knew about them, from war propaganda and rumors, to what he’d heard from his friends directly...they were pretty horrid people. Unsuited to properly lead the people that looked to them for leadership, in whichever way that manifested. Selfishness or ignorance or just...trapped by the system like everyone else. 

But…

“...they didn’t deserve that.” Not specifying what ‘that’ was. Even in the moments he was contemplating Kaede’s plan… The absolute worst way was for them to be killed in terror. Just...thrown away carelessly. Sighing softly, Kokichi held one of Kaito’s hands, staring somberly at the sky. 

“...I’m glad you have that memory of your mom. That you had someone like that who just...didn’t take even a speck of shit. She sounds like an incredible person…” In both good and bad ways. But Kaito didn’t need to hear the bad. He knew. 

With a careful smile, Kokichi looked back over at Kaito. “...I have a feeling your dad is pretty thankful that he has someone like her to go through the trials with. As I understand it, they’re pretty catered to every person, but...without politics? I doubt there’s much of anything that can stand in your mom’s way for long.”

Kaito looked startled for a moment, his brow furrowing...before he looked a little relieved, a shaky grin on his face as he said, “Yeah! Yeah! I...I bet they're having fun! Miss Mery didn’t think the trials were always terrible, all the time. She thought there had to be a balance...like, she thought that true growth came from moments of horror, and then long periods of rest to reflect on that horror...she thought that for the most part, the trials were peaceful. Maybe even nice…”

Kaito sighed, soothed by the memory of the afterlife his mentor had painted for him, saying, “They take a long, long time. So, I know she’s still going through hers. But I hope Miss Mery is enjoying herself...I hope it’s nice.”

Kokichi didn’t believe in the trials. Didn’t believe in Atua or...really any sort of god. Maybe he really was his father’s son in that sense. But Kaito believed fiercely, and he’d had so much loss in his life, especially recently… So if thinking about the trials and the destination of paradise gave him comfort, then it really didn’t bother Kokichi to talk about them. 

“That sounds like a really wise perspective...even if I’m totally biased,” Kokichi softly laughed, cuddling against his husband. “It’s difficult, having to face yourself and your perception… But once you start to come to terms with something...it does tend to feel nice. Uplifting...freeing. If that’s what the trials are all about, then...yeah. I bet there are a lot of nice moments during them.”

“After all...I’m gonna get to be with Kai-chan during ours, so there’s no way they’re all bad.” ...maybe it was a little mean to say something like that, but...Kokichi just wanted to give his husband some peace. The dead were dead, and there was nothing you could do about that. But for those they left behind...memories were important. Hope and fondness was important. 

...grieving was important. 

So Kokichi wanted to help in every little way he could.

“Yeah. I mean, I’m sorry you’ll have to deal with all of my bullshit in the trials.” Kaito laughed, rolling his eyes, “I’m sure that’ll be annoying to deal with. And hopefully I can help you out with your stuff, and I know you’ll be able to help me through mine… I bet we set a record!” Kaito said excitedly, looking fired up, looking over to Kokchi as he said, “I bet we get through our trials faster than anyone!!”

“Hey, that’s what I signed up for when I married you,” Kokichi giggled. And...he had, literally, with the binding ritual, though for Kokichi… It hadn’t been either of their ideas to marry. But Kokichi was dedicated to their marriage, and to him, that meant dealing with all Kaito’s bullshit in the big trial that was life. 

The night around them started to get a little livelier, the lanterns in the city dimming the stars slightly and the chatter of people filling the silence. But still, Kokichi just pressed his head against Kaito as he laughed. “With us working together? I don’t see why we can give it a solid run! Maybe we’ll end up in a hall of fame or something.”

“Oh maaaaaan, I hope there’s a hall of fame for trials! That’d be so much fun! Oh, man, I bet if you make the half of fame, you get to meet any saint you want! Oh man, I’d want to meet Saint Madison! She’s so cool… all the saints are amazing, of course, but I’d really lose my shit to meet her. She’s so cool...her brothel was caught up in the middle of a city that was being conquered by a violent, invading force!” 

“And the military was pushed out of the city, and they weren’t going out of their way to protect the brothel district anyway, but Saint Madison went out and stole the weapons and armor off of fallen soldiers, forieng and domestic alike, and she led her brothel into protecting themselves from the invaders! She was so effective, that when the invading force finally took over the city, they had to send an ambassador to the brothel district specifically, to negotiate with them a peaceful surrender, since they couldn’t get through their barriers by force!!”

Kaito laughed, eyes bright with straight up fanboy excitement as he said, “She’s soooo cool! I used to pretend me and her were going out on missions as a kid, like, like I was one of her squad! And I’m eventually her right-hand man, but oh no! I was tempted by a demon, and the demon gave me really cool powers, but I had to promise to betray Saint Madison! And I have a moment of weakness, because I was, like, six, and getting cool powers was awesome, but eventually Madison talks me back to the side of Atua, but I get to keep the powers anyway, and we fought demons!!”

Kaito paused, fists in the air, looking...mildly embarrassed. Before saying, “I had a very, very active imagination as a child.”

Kokichi giggled fondly, again happy just to listen to Kaito talk about his religion. And he had to admit, a tight-knit community salvaging supplies and using defensive tactics to keep each other safe was a very cool story. 

The one about Kaito going on missions with a religious figure was more of a cute one. 

“Awwww, my cute, creative Kai-chan…” Kokichi leaned in to press his nose against Kaito, but was suddenly blinking in confusion as he felt the wagon slow to a stop, the chatter of people finally hitting his ears. 

“Oh, we’re back already? That didn’t feel like half an hour…”

Kaito grinned, sitting up as he said, “We can ramble and chat endlessly, when we really want to babe. But yeah, that felt quick...which probably just shows how lost we can get in each other.”

Scooting off the wagon, he reached out for Kokichi, saying. “Ally-oop!” as he grasped his hips, picking him up and putting him down with a flourish. Taking his hand, bringing it up to his mask to kiss it, he moved them aside of the wagon, calling to the driver, “We’re off! Thank you again for your patience!”

The old man, looking more calm now, gave Kokichi and Kaito a nod, waiting for new riders to get on his wagon. 

Looking around, it was almost like they had returned to an entirely different place. The area was now lit by warm lanterns, making the paths and the stalls and event areas all golden under their glow. And golden was the theme, it seemed, at least in Kaito’s mind. The warm smells of the food from the stalls, a variety of pumpkin spices, all golden in feeling. The laughter of the people, which seemed to have doubled in the allure of the nighttime events, all golden in sound.

“...nice.” Kaito whispered, admiring the scene before them, enjoying the warm, friendly glows of the festival around them, even from the sometimes disturbing looking carved pumpkins and the especially disturbing decorations that only got more intimidating in the shadows they were placed in...before his stomach poked at him again. “Should we find our people? I bet they’re nearby, Maki likely setting out to find us by this point.”

“Should start makin’ a map, for how often I get lost in your eyes.” Kokichi giggled as Kaito made a show of bringing him down from the bed of the wagon, only not staggering since Kaito was still holding him. Waving to the driver, Kokichi took a deep breath, not needing to steady himself from any lightheadedness, but just...enjoying the new mood of the festival. 

That was one thing he’d been able to successfully argue early on. Since he was literally just sitting the entire day, once Kokichi turned twelve, he had been able to convince people to let him stay around for the night events of every festival. Sure, he’d been able to stay up for fireworks and that sort of big event, but once he was a little older...for those nights, at least, there was no one shuffling him off to bed until he asked about it. 

And, of course, it was hard to not want to breathe in everything the feast tables had to offer, new dishes periodically being brought as people came over to the festival. And, thankfully, Kokichi was a little harder to spot under the lamplight when he wasn’t at his usual spot stuck at a table or in front of the stage. 

Already looking to fade into the crowd, he nodded, beaming at the idea of seeing all their friends again, even if it really hadn’t been long. “Yes! I gotta hug Shuu-chan and tell him an’ Maki-chan and Tim all about the orchard. And how we totally gotta go apple picking sometime!”

Maki glanced at the rising moon and winced. She started scratching her neck idly, feeling the weight of her daggers in her dress and jacket. Shuichi, in turn, glanced at her before saying softly, “They’re fine. Times not up yet.”

Maki twitched. “We’re so close to just having one fucking day outside of the castle where nothing goes wrong….so fucking close…”

Shuichi hoped no one would tell her about his crying fest outside the haunted house. It wasn’t Maki’s responsibility, to make certain no one was even sad at any point today, but he had a feeling she’d take it as a personal failing. He loved that his friends wanted to look after him. It really, genuinely made him feel safer. But they overdid it, sometimes. Not just with him, but with each other too, and Shuichi sighed slightly as he said quietly to her, “It’s fine. Ya know, it used to be normal to go outside and not expect something tragic to happen…”

“Shut up. I’m not being paranoid.”

“You’re being a little paranoid.”

“Do you wanna die?”

“Cut me. I dare you. I double dog dare you.”

“I’m gonna cut Kaito when he gets back.”

“You won’t. Triple dog dare you.”

“You’re a real bastard sometimes, you know that-- Timothy!? Cali! Stop that, you’ll fall!”

Timothy, Cali and Kimiko all looked at Mai like a deer caught in headlights, Cali in the process of trying to sit on Timothy’s shoulders, Kimiko planning to try to climb up on Cali’s shoulders once she was up. Shirogane, who was idly chatting with a friend she knew, blinked in surprise at Maki as well, who was glaring daggers at her, before looking over to the kids she had been meant to be keeping an eye on for the last ten minutes. “Oh...Kimiko. Be careful dear!” 

“I’m gonna kill all of you.” Mai muttered darkly to herself.

“You won’t.” Shuichi said idly, enjoying watching the crowd as the kids ran round the picnic area. “Quadruple dog dare you.”

“Hey! Maki, Shuichi! We’re here!” Kaito called out, walking towards the picnic area with Kokichi in hand...before faltering, taking a small step back as Maki immediately stood up, murder in her eyes. “Oh...shit.”

Maki’s hair floated slightly above her ears, rising with the heat radiating off her as she growled, “Come here, Momota.”

Before, Kokichi had been overcome with gratitude for his friend, and knowing her aversion to affection, not just in public, but with anyone who could possibly see around, had hugged himself, trying to convey those feelings regardless. 

He wasn’t drunk, but a tipsy Kokichi wasn’t quite as diplomatic. 

“Ma~Ki~Chaaaaan!!” Kokichi cheered as he quickly skipped up to Maki, aiming for a grand hug, his burst of happiness at seeing his friends again coming out all at once. Cheeks rosy and hay and the leaf he’d picked up in his hair, Kokichi giggled, trying to nuzzle against his friend. “It was so much fun!! We super need to go some time, all of us, even if we miss this season and haf’ ta come back in spring, and we can pick fresh apples. The Kiginkos were suuuuuuuper nice an’ they were worried about Kai-chan gettin’ cold so--”

Immediately Kokichi cut himself off, distracted as he looked over at Shuuichi, the next on his hug list, and Kokichi glommed onto his boyfriend with a huff. “These clothes are just ridiculously thick, also as much as they are silly lookin’, so I’m good, but are Shuu-chan and Maki-chan cold? Lemme help! I’d say we could go get more jackets or somethin’, but Kai-chan hasn’t eaten today so we were talkin’ about getting food, like, proper food, an’ I can recommend stuff since I’ve been eating all day, and then we can all see the pumpkins, and by that time it’ll be pretty late so I dunno if you wanna stay out much later, so I dunno if you’d just decide to stay home if we went back for clothes? But if you’re cold then we can’t just let things stay like that, so, here, MMMMMMM!!!!”

Kokichi held Shuuichi closely, making a sound like he was...trying to willfully transfer some of his heat, talking a mile a minute prior.

Maki did stiffen a little when Kokichi threw himself onto her, glaring god damn daggers at a few passing people who had giggled softly to see the prince in such a good mood and...quickly hurried on to see the woman in less of a good mood. As Kokichi clung and nuzzled to her, Maki put her hands under his armpits and peeled him off as he was mid-explanation, lifting him up and taking the opportunity to look him over. Well, he didn’t look hurt in any way… she looked over at Kaito. A clear ‘what the fuck’ look on her face.

Kaito just grinned at her and shrugged. What could he say? The guy was trying to hold his cider. 

After a moment though Kokichi wiggled out of her grip, rushing towards his boyfriend, who smiled warmly at him and accommodatingly opened up his arms to him, though he let out a small gasp as his waist was squeezed a little tight… “Uh...th-thank you Kokichi...I’ve been drinking warm drinks all night though, so I haven't really been cold all that much...b-but this is nice…” he stammered, genuinely surprised at how much grip his very, very weak boyfriend had on him right now.

As Kaito went up to Maki, who looked him over quickly as well, a raise in her eyebrow as she saw the new fur coat, he said, “Hey Maki. Like ‘Kichi’s, uh, trying to explain, everything went fine. The orchard was super nice, and the family that runs it gave me a-OW! Why!?”

“Shuichi was being a brat.” Maki explained, reaching into the backpack on Kaito’s back to take out a bandage as he put a firm hand on his hip, wincing. It wasn’t a deep cut, he just hadn’t been expecting it, and glanced worriedly over at Kokichi for a moment, whose face was buried into his boyfriends chest. “Relax, stop acting like you’re dying.”

“Whose acting like they’re dying!? God, I can’t control him, Maki, why do I got to pay for it every time he annoys you?” Kaito whined, moving his hand away so she could put the bandage on, pouting as he looked down, “You tore my costume.”

“Someone needs to pay for it.” Maki shrugged, stepping back and looking Kaito over again before saying, “I like your new coat.”

“Thanks! It’s a wolf! Like, a real one?”

“That’s too big to be a wolf.”

“Maki-Roll, I don’t know what to tell ya, it’s got wolf ears and the lady said it was a wolf.”

“Mmmm.” Maki still didn’t look convinced, but decided it wasn’t worth arguing about. “We’re getting food? Miss Shirogane! Are you and the girls up to getting a meal with us!?”

Shirogane gave a wave to whoever she was talking to before, (Oh, Kaito recognized her! That was the lady who had been messing around with the strength machine with him! Shoot, he had lost her name…) before looking over at Maki, “Oh...yes, that could be good. Kids! Settle down, we’re going to go eat a bit!”

“Can we get pumpkin pie!??” Cali cried, for some reason on her back, legs straight up, Kimiko now sitting on her feet as Cali tried to keep her in the air.

“Good! Gonna keep Shuu-chan warm all winter! Kai-chan and Maki-chan an’ Tim too. We talk about it a lot, but I don’t think you really know-know, you know?” Likely thankfully for Shuuichi, Kokichi lightened up on his grip, though he still kept his arms around Shuuichi, content to be there for the time being, it looked like. “Snow taller than me! That’s what I’m talking about!”

“And, sure, there just being a lot of snow doesn’t mean that it’s colder than having just some snow, but it does mean that it’s cold for longer since the snow hasn’t gotten a chance to melt. Nmmm, but if it gets to that point, I don’t think we should go outside much…” Kokichi sighed, resting his head against Shuuichi’s shoulder and swaying a little in place, not unsteadily, but just because he didn’t want to be still. “Not much of anyone goes outside if even the plows can’t make it down streets to clear the way. But! The castle is warm and our room is warm, and everyone knows how to stock for the winter so there’s no worries about being stuck… Can’t wait to make a blanket tornado and sit with Shuu-chan in front of our fireplace...gets all nice and cozy.”

Just rambling to Shuuichi, Kokichi wasn’t paying much attention to the surrounding conversations, but he perked at the mention of pie. Looking up with excitement before straightening and turning that excited gaze at the kids, Kokichi hopped up and down in place for a moment. “Pie! You can’t leave the festival without having pumpkin pie! It’s against the law. And, and, pumpkin pie is super pumpkin-y, and while it’s a gourd and they’re their own classification, so much of the time it’s gastronomically and nutritionally lumped in with vegetables, so technically pumpkin pie is a vegetable. So no one can make faces at me eating it!”

Taking Shuuichi’s hand, Kokichi took a few skipping steps over to the large, colorful tables laden with food, only turning to implore the others to follow. “C’mon! Pie!” 

“Kokichi, no, we are not telling the kids that pumpkin pie counts as eating vegetables! Hey, come back here-!” Kaito quickly hurried after his husband and boyfriend, Shuichi just giving Kokichi an amused look as he allowed himself to be led. Maki took a quick glance to the kids to make certain they were following before heading to the tables as well, Shirogane absently following behind.

The kids, who were righting themselves, quickly followed as well, but Timothy said quietly to Cali and Kimiko, “...it’s against the law to not eat pumpkin pie at harvest?”

“What? No?” Cali said, giving Timothy a confused look...before saying, “Wait… I don’t think so?”

“That was a joke...though, I’ve never...not eaten pumpkin pie at harvest before.” Kimiko realized, confusion now blossoming on her face as well. “...I would have heard if it was against the law.”

“Doesn’t Prince Kokichi make the laws though?” Timothy asked.

“...does he?” Cali asked, eyes widening in surprise.

Kimiko nodded, looking sage and wise as she said, “Mommy works with government a lot, and I think that’s right. Princes’ make laws.”

“No, the leader makes the laws! Prince Kokichi’s not the leader! He’s, like, barely any bigger than us!” Cali insisted.

“Do you have to be big to be leader?” Timothy asked.

“King Aiichi’s super tall! So...yes!” Cali decided, not seeing any flaw in this reasoning, “It’s like a rollercoaster. You have to be this tall to be the leader!” she said, reaching above herself.

“Kokichi’s that tall.”

“Okay, yeah, but bigger than that even! Taller than I can reach! Like your dad!”

“Does Mister Kaito make laws then?” Kimiko asked.

“Ugh. No way. Dad doesn’t do anything.” Timothy rolled his eyes, as the kids were herded by Shriogane to grab some plates and started picking foods from the tables, before being herded to go sit with the adults who had done the same. “They wouldn’t even give him a job in the kitchen. I watched it happen. It was pathetic.”

“Are you still just...following them around?” Cali asked Tim quietly, raising an eyebrow at him. “Are they okay with that? My parents hate it when I eavesdrop.” 

“Mom told me to follow them. No one ever told me to stop. Besides, it’s fun crawling through the vents. I don’t think anyone’s realized I do that yet.”

“...can we go through the vents?” Kimiko asked, with wonder in her eyes.

“Yeah, sure, I’ll show you.” Timothy shrugged.

Having had his fill of all parts of a meal over the day, Kokichi really had planned on just getting himself a slice of pie to work through while his friends actually had dinner, but...well, even if he was at the feasting tables, a few people were close enough to recognize their prince and…

Well, at least he could still hold his large plate, filled with small portions of all sorts of things, the only concession being that he didn’t have to eat them one by one in front of a crowd, the evening folks apparently happy with just making sure their dish was on the prince’s plate. Small cups of a few different soups, from creamy pumpkin to a gnocchi dumpling soup, a bunch of different roasted actual vegetables cooked in garlic and bacon, a bundle of kimchi tucked alongside mashed taro, and one of the larger portions, an entire dried persimmon, stuffed with walnuts. 

...and there was still that Cosmic Cider. Sure...he knew he wasn’t sober at this point. But...one more glass wouldn’t get him drunk (probably), and he was eating a bunch and...it really was awfully good…

Setting his plate on an empty space on the table, Kokichi set out for just one last glass.

“Is Kokichi gonna get sloshed?” Shuichi whispered to Kaito, as they watched their small lover cheerfully head over to the available barrels of cider. 

“I mean...I hope so?” Kaito whispered back, eyes sparkling as he said, “Like, that’s probably gonna be adorable, right? He’s so small.”

“Why does him being small make him being drunk cuter?”

“Because, like, like...look at him! It’d be like managing a drunk kitten!”

“What if he’s a mean drunk?” Shuichi wondered, not really thinking he would be, but just trying to see how far Kaito’s open adoration of cute things could go.

“He says he’s a cuddly drunk, but okay, let’s say he’s a mean drunk. Like, what could he do? What, he gonna fight us? That would also be adorable.”

“You know you can’t fuck him if he’s drunk.”

“What? Why not?”

“What...cause he can’t give consent, Kaito.”

“...well, I mean, yeah, but like...what? That’s a thing even if you’re already dating?”

“I’ve always thought so. My mentor thought so too. Back when she thought I was going to date, like...anyone, she used to tell me that unless you agreed to beforehand, to always just assume someone drunk couldn’t consent. And even if you had permission beforehand, to be careful with that. Drunk people are real dumb and real bad at expressing themselves.”

“...aw. Damn it.” Kaito muttered, looking conflicted as he stabbed into his food. “I didn’t know you had to think about that if you were already dating them…”

“I’m sure you never hurt anyone, Kaito.” Shuichi reassured him, not noticing Kaito’s little wince at that, “Someone would have brought it up to you before now if you had. Though, shit like that was one of the many, many reasons I didn’t like Chad…if anyone was the type of person to use drinking as a date-rape drug….”

“Come on, man, he’s literally dead, do you still have to shit all over the guy whenever the opportunity comes up? You make him sound like a predator. He wasn’t like that! You and Maki never gave him a chance...”

“Guy was a piece of shit…”

“You two talking about Chad?” Maki asked, sitting down with her own plate opposite side of them, just catching the tail end of Shuichi calling someone a piece of shit and making a leap in logic.

“He. Is. Dead.” Kaito stressed again, clutching his fork tightly, “Just let it go.”

“Also, is Kokichi getting drunk?” Maki asked, watching the small prince head back. When he was in earshot, she said louder, “Kokichi? Are you trying to get drunk? It’s fine if you are, I’m just trying to get a read on how much of an eye I need to keep on ya tonight.”

Kokichi returned with his overfull plate and new cup of cider, pouting a bit at the question. “Nope! It’s just really tasty. Aw...Shuu-chan, when you can drink again, you should try it! Though Mr. Neil said that they just had an especially good batch this year… But Cosmic apples are good all the time, so I think it’d still be good!”

Plopping down next to Maki, Kokichi lowered his mask to take a sip, still just as pleased with the taste. And, starting to work through the food that...honestly, he might not be able to finish all of, Kokichi hummed happily, a giggle chasing the tail end. “Man… I’ve never been able to drink at a festival before. Don’t think I’m gonna make a habit--really, it’s just ‘cause this cider is real good--but, still. A new experience! In a day full of them! And I’m not the only one.”

“What about you guys?” Giving an expectantly curious look around the table, Kokichi tilted his head to the side. “It’s been full of new stuff for you too. Good stuff? I’d think so, but Kai-chan’s lookin’ tense, so I kinda hope isn’t not bad stuff that he just thinks would ruin my time if he speaks up about, so he just pretends to smile like everything is okay. Admirable, but if you’re not having fun, then we can do something else that IS fun!!”

Maki and Shuichi looked...a little surprised, while Kaito looked confused for a second, before giving out a small, hurt little, “Hey...what?”

Next to Maki, on the other side of the kids, Shirogane couldn’t help a small little giggle, though she covered it up with an embarrassed hand.

...but Kaito, (heh), didn’t want to ruin the day by showing how uncomfortable that comment had made him, and grinned as he ran a hand through his hair. “Ah, ya know what… different subject! Came to mind real quick! Maki! Shuichi and Kokichi lost a bet to me, and I get to put them in onesies now! When you were buying costumes, did you see if they were selling any? I don’t know if pajama onesies count as costumes…”

Maki nodded, smirking at Kokichi a little but accepting the out Kaito was gunning for, as she said, “Yes. And, I’ll show you where to find them if you promise right now not to get me one.”

“What? Come on! I never said….why not!? You’d look adorable!”

“Do you wanna die?”

“Pfffff, Kaito’s gonna put Prince Kokichi and Shuichi in onesies? Lame.” Cali giggled.

“Oh! Can I get one, mommy? I want a onesie!” Kimiko asked, looking to her friends as she said, “Onesies are super cute, right?”

“Yep.” Timothy said quickly.

“Super cute.” Cali nodded, eyes wide. “Definitely not lame.”

“I think you’d look cute as like a...like in a dragon onesie, or something, Maki-Roll.” Kaito insisted, before saying, “Oh! My new coat has ears on it! Try it on, Maki, please! You’d look so cute!”

“No.”

“Please!”

“Go Die.”

In the distance, a group of teenagers were hotly debating between each other. Having taken all day to get the equipment they needed and finally finding the target in question, everything was ready to go, paint filled water balloons in hand, but--

“Dude, Prince Kokichi and the royal surrogate and a bunch of kids are there...we should wait until he’s alone.” Their holdout friend insisted again, having been arguing this for the last five minutes.

“Why? It’s just paint. It’s not gonna hurt anyone.”

“No, but like...I don't know, man! What if it scares them? I’m not looking to traumatize a bunch of kids and some pregnant dude.”

“Is that guy trans? What’s his story?” Asked one of the other friends, peering over at Shuichi, “Like… I’ve heard he’s not trans. How did that work?”

“Some weird drug that’s going around, or something. I don’t know, I heard it had something to do with those brewery parties people were going to for a while. I heard he’s not the only one who ended up pregnant. My friend's brother’s apparently going through it too. Laurence?”

“Laurence is full of shit, you ask him anything, he swears up and down he knows someone personally who's going through it too, just to one up ya.”

“Dude, it’s his brother, that’d be a hell of a thing to make up…”

“Guys, I am literally just gonna start fucking throwing these things.” The fourth friend said, looking frustrated as he bounced the water-balloon from hand to hand, “Ya’ll are a bunch of pussies. That fucker invaded our whole damn country, and you’re scared to throw paint from bushes cause it might startle some people? Fucking weakass bullshit…”

Kokichi would likely regret saying that in the morning, but for that evening, he was easily distracted and just gave a dramatic sigh at the mention of the onesies. “I can’t believe we lost… Well, no, I can, but still! It was shifty, but Kai-chan still won, so we gotta respect that.”

With another sigh he stood up slightly from the table, leaning over to talk to Shuuichi semi-covertly, though he didn’t lower his volume at all. “There is an upside though! Onesies, or, at least the one I had as a kid, are, like, the warmest pajamas ever. And they’re super soft. Prime sleeping material, if it weren’t for the fact we’d be cooed over the entire night.”

All of a sudden, Kokichi’s face...twitched. His eyebrows drawing inward in confusion while his mouth fell into a frown as he looked over into the distance, at some bushes, just staring at them and cutting himself off. 

...it was a nice night. He got to drink, and his friends were trying good food (which he had been particular in warning them away from anything he knew was even mildly spicy. Maki had likely only been looking at the bowl of the chili oil spread curiously, but he still intervened, knowing that she’d be in a world of angry pain from it), they’d had a day full of incredible things, albeit with some bumps, but they dealt with that too. The atmosphere was bright and cozy and...friendly-feeling. Proud and awe-struck and...a wonderful feeling of comradery…

But there was a hot flash of anger and…

...why was someone that angry? That hurt? Were they okay? He hoped people knew to go to the guards if they were hurt…

Being an empath, without training, could be kinda tricky. It was hard to receive signals without also sending out signals, and any other creature around, even if they hadn’t been listening for it, if they were designed to receive such signals?

It was like trying to not listen in on someone who was fucking shouting at you.

And Mukuro, though she was on a sort of vacation right now, was a professional through and through. Her job was to protect Flora, and all that Flora considered theirs. Had been doing that for literal centuries. It was something she was good at. And she enjoyed it.

So, feeling Kokichi’s sudden unease, and the direction of that unease, Mukuro sighed, gave the woman who at the moment was looking like the strongest contender for someone who might be just bored enough with her life to literally change her entire species and have a kid a small, apologetic smile, promising to be back in just a moment… and went to go see what had upset the royal empath.

After all... the little magic creep was dating two seedlings, right now. Was the father of a little blossoming Flora (who...man...the kid was, what, a second old? And while she had only heard it standing so close to the recovering seedling, she could already hear a little...buzz from it. Kid might be a semi-powerful member of the hivemind, at this rate.). So, sure, her sister might be a little pissed at him, in a roundabout kinda way, but as far as Mukuro was concerned: he was still one of theirs. 

So as the kids in the bushes bitterly argued over if they should wait until Kaito was alone for their prank or just go whole hog now, one of the kids getting frustrated and pulling back his arm, going with or without their approval...she shot out her hand and caught his wrist  from the shadows. Squeezing it hard as she grinned at the startled young humans.

“...hey there.” she greeted, her eyes starting to glow pink, something like...cracks in her face, splitting the makeup there into six, uneven lines, starting from the tip of her nose and ending at six ends of her face, “You kids wanna see my harvest costume?”

And then all ends splitting open, her face opening up like a mutated, fucked up venice fly trap, sharp, razer teeth on each edge of the morphed, split skin, and a tongue that looked like a tentacle, covered in vibrant, pink thorns, which shot out and licked one of the boys face…

And, screaming their heads off, all four teenagers fucking bolted out of the bushes, running for their lives.

Mukuro chuckled, stepping out of the bushes as well, her face back together, the strange lines on her face probably makeup for some costume for harvest, right??? People around her assumed, waving goodbye to the boys before looking over to the picnic area, giving the squad a wave of hello before moving on, determined to go find her future seedling again.

Maki, Shuichi and Kaito blinked in confusion over watching a bunch of teenagers suddenly scream and run out of nowhere, Maki with a knife automatically in her hands, Cali having quickly given Timothy back his. Though, when nothing else happened… “Weird.” Kaito said.

“Yeah.” Shuichi agreed.

Kokichi wasn’t really sure what was bothering him so much. Something just felt...wrong. Angry and hurt, but...he didn’t understand why that wrong feeling was categorized by those feelings, or even why he was looking over in that direction, but just…

In an instant, those angry feelings were cut down by abject terror, something that made Kokichi flinch even before he heard the screams. And four teens ran away and...Kokichi guessed he’d figured out the ‘what’ but…

He kept staring out over the bush, giving a little confused wave when a woman--oh, she’d been hanging out with Kaito earlier?--waved, but...well. Everything felt alright now. Shaking his head a little of the weird feeling, he turned back to his meal, giving his cider a suspicious look. 

“Hey… I don’t feel drunk, but am I?” Shaking his head, Kokichi popped a piece of pie in his mouth. “Incredibly weird.”

“Mmmm, let’s see.” Maki said, smirking a little, reaching down cut a carrot on her plate into an even, balanced rectangle. Then, reaching over, she said, “Tilt your head back...let’s see how long you can balance this on your nose.”

Was horizontal sway really measured like that? Still, with barely a shrug, Kokichi tipped his head back obligingly, keeping still for Maki to place the carrot on his nose. And...staying still, since that was how balance worked, barring micro-adjustments. 

At the very least, Kokichi didn’t drop it right away, and still had enough sense not to cross his eyes to watch the carrot, knowing that it’d just mess up his balance. And, of course, not caring very much that he was balancing a carrot on his nose in the middle of the plaza. 

Maki, Kaito and Shuichi all watched this display, snickering to themselves (while the kids, seeing this, immediately all tried to mimic it with their own food), before finally the carrot slid off. “How long did he try to do that for, Shuichi?”

“Forty-four seconds.” Shuichi immediately provided.

“You tried to balance a carrot on your nose for almost a full minute. Yes. You are a little drunk.” Maki smirked.

Kokichi blinked before giggling a bit, delighted with the little trick. Eating the carrot, he shrugged. “To be fair, I’d probably try it even if I was sober, but considering I didn’t catch on at all…” A little laugh before he sighed, pushing his glass a little away from himself. “Alright, no more cider tonight. Shame...it’s really good.”

But even a little drunk, he couldn’t offer it to Shuuichi, he knew Maki would refuse since she was on the job, and...while Kokichi didn’t mind asking Kaito to help finish his food, finishing his booze seemed like a terrible habit to start. At least it was only about a third of his glass left. Not much to waste. 

Sighing again as he started back on trying to whittle down the samples on his plate, Kokichi hummed, “I’m gonna sleep so well tonight… If I start drooling on Kai-chan or Shuu-chan, feel free to push me off--I’m not gonna even notice!”

“I love your total confidence that you do not, already, drool sometimes.” Shuichi chuckled, sipping happily on some of the warm tea that Maki had found for him. Warm….

“Hey, come on now, Shuichi, he doesn’t do it often! Only when he ends up, like, horizontal on the bed does he do that...and you do it too, bud.” Kaito said, giving his sidekick a chastising look. “You drench me sometimes, when you get all curly.”

“Never said I didn’t. Push us off if it bothers you.” Shuichi said, something defensive in his tone.

“It doesn’t bother me! I think it's cute!”

“You think drool is cute?”

“Yeah!! I ain't backing down from that statement! Drool is cute!”

“Ugh…” Timothy groaned, putting his head in his hands in second-hand embarrassment, as his friends giggled at his shouty father.

When Shuuichi said it, Kokichi had just figured that he was teasing, but when Kaito chimed in… Kokichi raised his eyebrows in surprise, this being the first he’d ever heard of it. He never woke up with wet spots in bed (barring a few bedwetting incidents when he was younger, the person watching him not quite paying attention to the right signs and Kokichi not waking up from illness-deepened sleep) but...he supposed that if it happened when he was restless enough to go horizontal, then he probably wouldn’t notice. 

“Huh…” Kokichi hummed, processing that before giving Shuuichi a soft look. “I don’t mind Shuu-chan drooling on me either. Wouldn’t call it cute, but if it’s a fact of life of getting to sleep with cutie Shuu-chan, then it’s a price I’ll pay. I like showering in the morning anyway.”

Slowing down through the pile on his plate, Kokichi propped up his head with an arm on the table. “Should be lucky that we don’t disturb each other’s sleep more. Or maybe the convenience of a big bed, even if we always end up pressed together.” His smile got a little smug as he leaned down more. “And the middle’s the best--prime spot between Shuu-chan and Kai-chan… What is cute, is when you’re both huggin’ me at the same time in your sleep. S’nowhere I’d rather be, so hasn’t been an issue that I can’t escape that yet.”

“Awwww~” Kaito gushed, eyes shimmering as he listened to Kokichi be so sweet and cute. Maki rolled her eyes a little, and Cali stuck her tongue out at Timothy, going ‘blegh’ to him quietly, who nodded a little.

Shuichi just smiled though, reaching over to take some straws out of Kokichi’s hair as he said, “I like that too. Though, I think it’s pretty nice when you somehow manage to crawl literally on top of me and Kaito just, like, pins you on me...it’s always a little startling when I wake up, but it’s really warm…it’s nice.”

“I have to pin you both. You two move around so much when you’re dreaming. If I let go, you’ll end up at my feet.” Kaito snickered.

“Ugh. You three are so domestic.” Maki sighed. “I hope you all realize you're ‘that’ couple now.”

“Don’t be jealous, Maki.” Shuichi said, looking a little smug.

“Who’s jealous? I had my fun with Kaito. You can have my leftovers.” Maki sneered back.

“Woooow. Wow.” Kaito blinked, giving Shirogane an embarrassed, apologetic look (who just giggled again.) before giving Maki a stern look as he said, “Too far, Maki. That was weird.”

Maki narrowed her eyes slightly...before sighing. “Sorry. I was just teasing.”

“Thank you.” Kaito said, before grinning, “So, when are you gonna start dating again, Maki? I know you took a break because of the move, but, well, that’s over now, soooo~”

“Anyone caught your eye yet?” Shuichi asked her. 

Maki just huffed in response. “I’ve been a little busy…”

Kokichi made a little content sound when Shuuichi started picking out pieces of hay in his hair, his chin almost down to the table now. It was always a little confusing when he woke up on top of his partners, but Kokichi found he liked it. Being right up against that body heat he craved, listening to the rhythm of breath and heartbeats… It was only kind of a shame when he woke up on Kaito, since he inevitably had to get up right then and there when Kaito got up for training. Shuuichi technically had to get up for it too, but he tended to bum around as long as he could bargain, and that meant Kokichi got to sleep a little longer too. 

They were domestic. Kokichi found that he quite liked it. 

“Mmn… ‘d just be weird if Maki-chan dated me or Shuu-chan…” Since dating your sibling was very weird, and well...Kokichi didn’t swing that way. He loved Maki, but it was the love of a friend. No romance whatsoever. Which no one really needed for satisfaction, but...it was quite nice. 

Smiling lazily up at Maki, Kokichi had pure sincerity sparkling in his eyes. “It’ll happen when it happens, won’t if it won’t. But if Maki-chan wants something like that… I hope she finds someone who appreciates the shit outta her. Maki-chan deserves the best...someone that’ll cherish her. But I hope Maki-chan finds a good love out there…”

“Hmmmm...yeah. Thanks, Kokichi.” Maki sighed, genuinely appreciating the kind words, but not exactly the type to gush over kind words. “I’d appreciate just finding someone who can kind of keep up with me...or, I don’t know. At least someone who doesn’t slow me down.”

“Pff. Like you don’t have a type.” Shuichi said, rolling his eyes. 

“She does?” Kaito said, sounding a little confused. “I don’t know… I’ve never seen too many similarities between the people that catch Maki’s eye.”

“Oh, oh! May I guess?” Shirogane interrupted. “I like to think I have an eye for things of that nature. I’m very good at observation and reading people, I believe…”

The Luminaries, having all slightly forgotten she was listening in, all glanced at her with a mixture of suspicion and nerves… before Kaito laughed, breaking the tension. “Uh, well, what do you think, Maki-Roll? We don’t have to talk about this if you’re not up to it.”

Maki shrugged. “Sure. Go for it.”

“Well...based on who you seem to be as a person, and what you just said about wanting someone who can keep up with you...and assuming you’re even half as confident as you portray yourself-”

“She is.” Kaito and Shuichi said at the same time.

“I am.” Maki said, half a second before they did.

“Then I’d say….you’re attracted to powerful people.” Shirogane guessed with a smile.

Kokichi nodded knowingly, now his cheek resting against the table. Having someone compatible when it came to lifestyle was important. Not everything, considering that Shuuichi and Kaito would probably much prefer far less high profile lives, and they were dating Kokichi and each other, but still...it allowed you to bond in different ways. Someone adventurous, but not wildly reckless, who wouldn’t mind just...picking up and disappearing for a while. Someone fiercely loyal, but independent. While Kokichi mostly enjoyed being practically joined at the hip, even he worried about his partners having their own lives, and he figured that Maki would appreciate someone who could just...do their own thing. 

Kokichi cracked an eye open--when had he closed them?--when Tsumugi piped up, kind of happy that the ambassador wasn’t feeling too much like the odd one out, and...yeah, that made sense. 

“Mm...makes sense,” he drawled. “Maki-chan likes action, and people who have the power to act? That makes sense…” Seeing people’s power to change the world around them in action...naturally, it’d be something Maki was attracted to. Just as long as they didn’t try to use that power on her… They’d be in for a jarring rebuttal if they thought even for a second to do something like that. 

But Maki and a loved one combining their power for their goals? Unstoppable.

“...Could take on the whole universe together…”

“Hm.” Maki hummed, looking over at Shuichi as she said, “Was that gonna be your guess too?”

“Basically, yes.” Shuichi nodded, though he was a little disappointed that Shirogane had taken the oomph out of his own statement by guessing it herself.

“Hm...yeah. There might be some truth to that.” Maki agreed.

“Aw! Does that mean you think I’m powerful?” Kaito said, grinning at Maki.

“You were a lapse in standards.”

“Tsk. Mean.” Kaito huffed, before looking over to his husband, patting his head a little as he said, “‘Kichi? Babe? Should we be thinking about going home soon? You look like you’re about to pass out on us, babe.”

“Nooooooooooooo…” Kokichi drawled, even as he didn’t bother to open an eye. Though, the head pats were nice. “Mm just restin’ since we’re sittin’ an’ eatin’ and I’m so full… I don’t think I’ll have to eat for a week after this. But…”

He did crack an eye open then, looking up at Kaito from his alcohol flushed, drowsy face. “We were gonna go see the pumpkin winners, right? And it’s barely night--the festival is gonna keep goin’ for hours, even if most of the games ‘n stuff are being taken down. Like...people do dramatic tellings of spooky stories on stage...then there’s usually some cool performance at midnight…’s even cooler when Harvest is on a full moon...give it great amib - abim - ambina - mood. It’s a good setting…”

“Oh! Oh! I wanna do the spooky stage stories!” Kimiko shouted, Cali and Timothy both looking interested in that idea as well.

“Well, sweetheart, even if they go home, me, you and Cali will still go-”

“Noooo, mom! I want Timothy to come too!” Kimiko said, looking alarmed, as Cali latched onto Timothy’s arm, nodding furiously.

“Yeah! This is his first Harvest! He can’t leave for the good bits!” Cali demanded, shaking Timothy furiously as she said, “He has to stay!!”

“Why are you attacking me?” Timoty muttered, as he was shaken back and forth, looking unimpressed.

“Hey, come on now, I wasn’t saying anyone had to go home. I was just...Cali, stop shaking him!”

“I want him to staaay!”

Maki sighed, before standing up. “Alright, well, if we’re staying till midnight, then we need fuel. Come on, Kokichi. Let’s go find some caffeine to hit back against the cider. Shuichi, Kaito, you want some coffee? Shirogane? My treat.”

“I’m alright, Maki-Roll, thanks!”

“Coffee sounds amazing.” Shuichi admitted, “Can you get me a hazelnut if they have it? Vanilla if they don’t.”

“If you’re offering, I’ll take an espresso, Maki. Thank you so much.” The diplomat smiled pleasantly at her. 

“Got it. Come on, Kokichi. You need to stretch your legs.” Maki ordered, heading over to take his elbow, pulling him from the table.

It was a rite of passage, of sorts, being able to stay up for the late-night activities during festivals. New Years, of course, was the big one, but Kokichi had always loved listening to all sorts of people take the stage during Harvest, sharing all sorts of stories. Not just scary ones, as he’d said but just...any sort of story. Folk and fairy tales, family bedtime stories, sometimes just weird news. Mikaku always told such weird ones, sometimes up on stage for over an hour, people baffled but intrigued by what tale the strategist had brought that year. 

Being able to stay up for all that was kind of...well, not a way to say you were an adult, as Kokichi had noticed plenty of families letting younger kids stay around late into the night--as they were doing with the kids this year--but it was still special. Another step on the path to being part of the community. 

Kokichi put up a cursory whine at being dragged from the table, but got up and went along with Maki easily, only unsteady for a moment before he straightened. “Nng...don’t really like coffee… Hopefully they have some nice, caffeinated black teas… Mm. If we’ve talked about it, I don’t remember right now, but what kind of coffee do you like, Maki-chan? And...yanno. Despite being on duty...I hope you’re having a good time too.”

“If a black tea will do it, then fine. But don’t dismiss a beverage with such useful day to day value just because it tastes ‘icky’, Kokichi.” Maki huffed, though it was pretty obvious that she was scolding mostly to tease. Despite her tone and resting bitch expression, there was an ease in how Maki walked and spoke. 

As she looked around, hands in her dark jacket, she said, “If I need it for a purpose? Expressos are the way to go. Most amount of caffeine, least amount of effort to drink. Though, my mentor had this blend of coffee...he never told me what it was made of. I think he was worried I’d recreate it and overconsume it. But whenever I had a particularly tough mission, he’d mix me this thermos of what he called ‘Berserker’ coffee...it tasted like garbage, and was always cold by the time I drank it, but once I had it, I could stay awake for days, and could fight the whole damn planet throughout the whole thing...and then I wouldn’t be able to stay awake for more than a few hours at a time for a week.”

As they got in line for a stall that was radiating warm smells of coffee and tea, Maki sighed. “...I would love some berserker coffee right now … if I knew how to make it, and also didn’t care about my heart exploding, I’d have some every day.”

Kokichi just wrinkled his nose and stuck his tongue out. He ate vegetables for his health! That was clearly enough evidence that he didn’t judge everything on taste. “Some coffee drinks are okay...but by the time they taste good at all, it’s mostly a milky dessert. Guess that still has caffeine, though, so I guess it counts.”

Berserker coffee… Sounded so intense it was a little scary, but if there was anyone who genuinely needed the ability to be up and running for days at a time, he guessed Maki had a better bid for it than most. Most things could wait, but constant or unexpected danger? Gotta be vigilant for that.

Still, didn’t mean that Maki was the type of person to only drink it when it was a situation like that. Sighing, Kokichi shook his head a little. “I think I’m happier to see a well-rested Maki-chan than a hyped up Maki-chan. I dunno about stayin’ awake for days but...that sounds a little like taurine. It used to be used in, like, energy drinks ‘n stuff, and I heard a few cases of people using it in candy bars, but it became a restricted substance a while back. No one needs energy that badly, and it was...like, super linked with heart failure and addiction. I think you can get drinks with really, really tiny amounts, but...again, restricted. Might only be for a ‘cause for need’ permission. Like super long surgeries, though, really, they should just have surgeons relaying to make sure everyone’s rested and at their best.”

Kokichi yawned softly, covering his mouth and trying to shake the comfy, warm, floaty feeling in his head.

“...taurine….” Maki echoed, eyes wide with wonder. “...do you suppose Seiko has access to it?”

Kokichi gave his friend the stinkeye before pouting. “Maki-chaaaaan, nooooo. Just sleep! I’m the only one in this group allowed to have heart problems, okay? You’ve seen how bad a heart attack is--stay healthy!”

“Hmmm.” Maki said non-committedly, before getting to the front of the line. “One black-tea…” She squinted at the list of drinks on the blackboard, before asking Kokichi, “Do you have a preferred flavor? Ugh...it’s all pumpkin spices….”

Kokichi waved a little to the person taking the orders, his eyes scanning over the blackboard. “A cinnamon-pumpkin black tea, hazelnut coffee, and two espressos...right? That everyone?”

“You have any mints? Mint herbs?” Maki asked the barista.

“Um...yes, I might...yes!” the barista double checked, before nodding.

“Add that to one of the expressos.”

After paying for the drinks, Maki and Kokichi stepped aside, waiting a moment, before the drinks were ready, Maki carrying most of them before handing Kokichi his, saying, “Drink it. You’re more loopy than you think you are.”

Kokichi took his drink with a happy hum, enjoying the warmth from the cup before sighing and taking a careful sip, trying not to burn his mouth. “It always goes that way, huh. Well...at least right now I don’t think I’ve done anything I’ll regret tomorrow, but we’ll see for real when tomorrow comes. For now? We still have a good bit of the festival left to enjoy.”

With a decisive nod, he took a few more sips of his tea as they headed back to the group. “Mm...I haven’t done anything that you regret, have I?”

Maki looked down at the drinks, memorizing where the espresso laced with mint was, before saying, “You’re worried about me.”

Kokichi looked up at his friend, blinking, before his eyes narrowed in confusion. Unsure if...Maki regretted that Kokichi worried about her, or if she was just...making some sort of statement. 

“...well, yeah,” he said bluntly after a moment. “You’re my friend, and I care about you. Of course I’ll worry about you.”

“Mmm.” Maki hummed, spotting the group as they made their way back, Kaito enthusiastically telling some story or another to the kids, who looked suitably interested, if unimpressed with whatever he was going on about. 

“...I’m not unhappy to be working.” She said. “I’m worried I’ve given you that impression. I like being busy, and I don’t consider it a burden. You don’t have to worry that I’m not enjoying myself or relaxing. I am enjoying myself, and I’ve never relaxed a damn day in my life. I wouldn’t feel more comfortable with nothing to do and drunk out of my mind.”

Ah… 

He...had been worrying about that in particular. Not just for Harvest but...all the time. Whenever she made a comment like wishing she was off the clock so she could drink, or looking stressed to try and puzzle out multiple things going on at the same time, having to figure out a creative solution because she was bound by obligation…

Kokichi understood complaining just to complain, but...well, when it was your job to listen to complaints and work to solve them, even idle ones could get the brain going without taking a second to realize the situation and just...say, ‘yeah, sucks’. 

After a moment, Kokichi nodded with a small breath, giving Maki a smile. “And I can trust that if Maki-chan really is annoyed, she’ll be the first to tell me? I know you’re not one to stifle your opinions.” (When she could.) “I think I’ll always worry a little though. Because of the whole, you know, anxiety thing, but also…’cause I always worry about making things better for everyone. Something I gotta work on.”

“It’s good to always have a goal, but the point of work is to be able to enjoy yourself, you know? To relax. Even if you don’t...still. I hope Maki-chan has plenty of moments where she at least doesn’t feel tense.” 

“The point of my work is to keep people alive...these days.” Maki mused, a small… pleased expression on her face. It wasn’t a smile. It was just...pleased. “That’s my job. Keep everyone alive...and you idiots make it incredibly busy work…”

“...but I like that this is what I have to think about, for the most part, right now. My own…. Side projects notwithstanding.” Maki shrugged, before looking fondly down at Kokichi, stopping a moment, before they got to the tables, to speak to him directly. “And I feel less tense the more I’ve prepared, and the safer you are. But, that’s beside my point… my point is that just because I am busy, and just because I complain, does not mean I am unhappy. I have a job that I like, my closest friends are safe, a considerable amount of dead children that were weighing on my mind are strongly suggested to be alive now, and I… I haven't given up on my home, which I knew was going to take time and effort either way.”

“I’m probably the happiest now that I’ve ever been.” she said to him. “I appreciate you looking out for me, and yes, I will tell you when that changes. But for now, I’d ask you to simply be happy for me. Life is good. I am okay.”

“...understood?” she said. Raising an eyebrow at him.

Kokichi’s expression softened as Maki spoke on...her life now, essentially. 

He knew Kaito in particular was a different case. And...that there genuinely were parts of their home that Maki and Shuuichi liked. That they missed, and preferred over Dicea and likely would indefinitely. And just like he had tried to just see Luminary as a different place, unknowing of what the country actually was like...he tried to keep all those things in his mind. 

But Dicea wasn’t bad, and his friends knew that. Maki and Shuuichi were free citizens. Like everyone else in Dicea, they wouldn’t have to worry about poverty or starvation or...well, he wanted to say prejudice but...really? They had just traded classism for nationalism. But...still. 

They were okay here. And Kokichi really needed to stop expecting to just...discover that his friends thought it was hell on earth. 

Kokichi just took in Maki’s words for a few moments, before turning a huge, beaming grin on her. “Hey, see this? This is my ‘happy for Maki-chan’ smile. So...until you let me know otherwise? This is the smile I’ll always have in my heart for you.”

Maki smirked at that, before nodding. “Good. Then both our jobs are done. Now come on, you lush, our friends want their drinks.”

Heading back to the tables, Maki nodded her head politely at the greetings back, Kaito explaining that he had been telling the kids about some of the saints of Atua (Timothy looked bored, Kimiko a little confused, Cali oddly pumped), excitedly going over which saints he was telling them about as Maki hummed at him, “Mmmhmm, mmmhmmm, here you go…” 

Passing Shuichi his coffee, Shirogane her expresso, and patting Timothy affectionately on the head  as she put the tray down (who looked up at her, a little confused, but not entirely displeased by the random affection) she said, “Well, if we’re done with story time? Let’s get our drinks in us and then head to the pumpkins, yeah?”

“Right-o! Thank you so much again, Maki.” Shirogane said cheerfully, before taking a sip of hers...and her eyes widened in shock, spitting the coffee out involuntarily as her body shuddered. “Eergh!”

Maki gave Shirogane a curious look, sipping on her own espresso as she asked, “Oh? Something the matter? Too hot?”

“N-no, just...I believe there’s mint in it?”

“Oh, noooo.” Maki said, sipping her espresso again. “I must have given you mine by accident. I’m so sorry. Do you dislike mint?”

“No, no, not particularly, it was just...startling when you’re expecting-”

“Well, that’s alright then, isn’t it.” Maki said, giving Shrigane a small smile. “So sorry for the mixup though. My mistake.”

...Maki enjoyed making fun of Kaito, Kokichi and Shuichi.

That didn’t mean she was okay with some stranger making a show of fucking giggling at them every time they were embaressed.

Bitch could keep her mocking little giggles to her fucking self.

Maki sipped at her espresso once more, while Shirogane frowned at her own cup. Pleased.

Kokichi rolled his eyes. He was a little drunk. And getting soberer with every minute!

Choosing now to forego his seat to stand between his partners, Kokichi nuzzled against Kaito’s shoulder a bit--not minding mostly rubbing his face against the fur of the coat--and pressed a cheek to Shuuichi’s head before straightening. He just...wanted to be a little closer. Not for any other reason more than he simply loved them. 

It did end up giving him a full view of Ambassador Shirogane sputtering against her cup. Kokichi looked over in concern, but...a matter of just being surprised with an unexpected taste was alright. Happened to him all the time, honestly, and Kokichi got a bit more swept up in reminiscing about that than being more concerned over his bodyguard playing a prank on the ambassador. 

“Ohhh, that happens to me a lot at festivals, actually,” he drawled, leaning on Kaito as he spoke to Tsumugi sympathetically. “People are pretty good at describing the stuff they want me to try, but, yanno, I’m just thankful I don’t have any food allergies. Like, it’s not as if it’s bad, but it’s just not what you’re expecting! Like a cranberry tomato soup--you kinda expect some sweetness, but not that level, and with the sourness too. It’s startling!”  

Shirogane laughed, still feeling a little annoyed, but, well… to err was human. It wasn’t like the little murderess had given her the wrong cup on purpose. “Yes, it’s jarring, isn’t it? Well, I just plain don’t mind mint, knowing what’s coming, so as I said, it’s fine. No harm done. If anything, I wish I had thought to ask for a specific flavor now, though my tastes are so boring and uninspired that likely all I’d think of is vanilla.”

“I think vanilla is a fun flavor, mommy!” Kimiko fretted a bit, trying to reassure her mother. “And you can put cinnamon and whip cream on it and it’s amazing!”

“Awwww, my creative Kimiko...yes, I suppose if you add those things, vanilla is a very fun flavor after all.” Shirogane said accommodatingly, petting her daughters hair a bit. “It’s good to see the axe has held up so well...was worried the headband would start becoming inclined to slip off by this point in the night.”

“Alright. Everyone ready? Let’s go see these pumpkins.” Maki said, standing up with her cup.

Kaito, in turn, had put his arms around Kokichi’s waist and pulled him close to him, hugging him tight and had been whispering to him, “Aw, my sweet ‘Kichi...you feeling spinny at all? Your face is all red. It’s super cute. Do you want me to carry you any or you good? Hey, come here, give me a kiss. Just a little kiss…”

Timothy frowned at his father, incredibly weirded out by the open gushing as Shuichi seemed perfectly content to sip at his warm tea. “Can you...not?” Timothy grumbled.

“Oh! Tim! Come here, walk with me, I need to talk to you kid.” Kaito realized, kissing at Kokichi’s cheek before standing up. “Walk with Shuichi, babe, I gotta do dad stuff real quick.”

Kokichi hummed a bit when Kimiko chimed in, nodding along with her. Vanilla was basic but...well, things only became basic because they were more or less universally beloved. Or at least liked. It was fun to try new flavors, but sometimes all you really wanted was some nice vanilla. 

Making sure to take their plates to the compost and dish bins, respectively, Kokichi double checked to make sure he had his mask with him, only realizing after a moment that he’d forgotten to put it back on when he and Maki had gone over to get the drinks...whoops. Luckily he was pretty much over his illness, as far as he could tell, so...hopefully it’d be alright. Still not good, though…

Luckily, he had enough focus to pull it back on before he was distracted with Kaito’s fawning. Kokichi giggled and nuzzled against Kaito in his husband’s arms, pressing his nose to Kaito’s cheek in lieu of a kiss. “I’m fine, hun. I’m a little floaty, but not bad, and I’m sobering up! Drinking tea! Being a responsible drinker!”

And he was, only wobbling slightly when Kaito let him go, and Kokichi’s eagerness to glom onto Shuuichi’s arm had nothing to do with being unsteady. “Soooo do you think this is gonna give you inspiration for next year? If Shuu-chan and my dad team up I don’t think there’s any design that’s out of reach, though I kinda wanna call dibs on you. Art collabs with Shuu-chan are a lot of fun.”

Shuichi looked a little startled to suddenly be latched onto, but he calmed immediately, looking fondly at Kokichi as the group moved, Kaito and Timothy trailing the very back, Kaito gently questioning the kid on something, who kept shrugging and giving small, simple responses. Meanwhile, Cali and Kimiko were chasing Chase up ahead, Maki and Shirogane keeping an eye on them as they zig-zagged through the crowd, heading to the bright lights of the winning pumpkins.

“I’m really not that creative. Having a skilled hand for drawing doesn’t necessarily equal knowing what to do with that skill.” Shuichi said, sipping at his tea with his free hand, taking his time with its welcome heat and small energy boost. “It was a skill I acquired through practice and need. But beyond just drawing what I’ve seen, I don’t have much else to do with it.”

“You, however...I imagine without being worried about the whole…” Shuichi tried to think of a gentle way to word it. “...I hope I’m not making an assumption. But you seemed tense, when Kaito left you alone with the pumpkin. I got the impression you thought you’d be yelled at, or scolded, or something. Which isn’t a great atmosphere for thinking of something ‘whimsical’.”

“Woooow, what a lie, Shuu-chan lying right to my face,” Kokichi huffed in a whine, nudging at Shuuichi’s shoulder. “You came up with your jack-o’-lantern design, didn’t you? Or did someone steal your journal and sketching style while my back was turned? And when we drew together, that was definitely you drawing, and while it was of me...the pose wasn’t, and the style you drew in wasn’t something I’ve really ever seen before. Shuu-chan is creative!”

With his evidence presented, Kokichi calmed down a little but...just grimaced off to the side for a moment. “...something like that. I kinda thought someone there would overreact but…” He lowered his voice, looking nervously around at their friends before dropping his gaze. “...I know it’s dumb and...self-sabotaging. But I was nervous ‘cause...I thought I was going to get myself hurt. I still tried, ‘cause I wanted to, but...I probably could’ve done a lot more if I’d just gone for it.”

...it was embarrassing. After all his protests and insistancies, to falter in the face of freedom. Shameful and...ungrateful, for the people that supported him. But Kokichi hadn’t been able to help the flash of nerves that hit him when he picked up the small knives. That was part of the reason he only tried out doing detail work, and not any of the larger carving sections.

“Ah. I see…” Shuichi said, nodding understandingly. That made sense… “You’ve spent your whole life being told you can’t do something. It’d make sense that you’d be nervous to do it. It’s not like they say those things for no reason… having those reasons in the back of your mind would make anyone nervous.”

“And, personally, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with erring on the side of caution.” Shuichi shrugged. “There’s nothing wrong with going slow or taking your time with something that makes you nervous. Means you won’t make stupid, easy to avoid mistakes.”

Kokichi glanced back up at Shuuichi and...let out a breath. Pressed his head against Shuuichi’s arm affectionately. “...thank you, Shuu-chan.”

“Well, I managed to work on a pumpkin without cutting myself or ruining the design, so I can be a little more bold next time, right? Maybe try out a more ambitious design--I still think it was pretty good for our first one!”

It wasn’t a long walk to the cleared area where they were holding the contest. The pumpkins had been de-gooped ahead of time, and good thing--each one in the contest was about four feet tall, and while they varied in shape a bit, they were pretty close. Close as you could get with something grown, really. They had gone from blank that morning, to shaved and carved, to starting to come into a design to now…

Kokichi let out a small sound of awe, the actual announcement of the contest done, but each of the, really, sculptures glowing in the night, lanterns having been moved away once the contestants were done. And they were incredible.

One pumpkin was fashioned like a cornucopia, the “frame” of the pumpkin turned into a basket while the “picture” was overflowing with food, all things grown in fall, a true tribute to Harvest. Because of the design, it almost looked like the foodstuffs were glowing, about to tumble out of the basket because there was so much. 

Another took a different approach, showing off an almost storybook-like scene of a hidden grotto, a mermaid chatting with a human sitting on the bank before a glittering pool of water, framed by leafy vines and branches. Almost making the viewer feel like they were peering in on a secret moment. 

Kokichi shuffled forward a bit, wanting to look at the rest of the jack-o’-lanterns, of course, but drawn in to see the details a little closer. 

While the family enjoyed looking through the many intricate detailed, wonderful pumpkins, Kaito and Timothy stayed back a distance, caught up in their conversation. Timothy kept getting an increasingly frustrated expression, shaking his head over and over, while Kaito just grinned at him a tad sadly and spoke softly and after a while, he squatted down, resting his arms on his knees, looking slightly up at Tim now, less of a looming presence. The boy huffed, but some of the tension eased out of him, and the two kept quietly talking to each other.

After a while of this, Timothy shrugged and nodded something, and Kaito grinned but remained quiet. And in that quiet, Timothy started to talk to him about whatever it was Kaito had been so concerned about. 

It was a small gush of words, and Timothy, every now and again, looked frustrated with something he himself said. His small fists clenching and unclenching, and his eyes darting to random Diceans in the crowd, something...vicious, sometimes, in the gaze. Both accusatory and defensive. Kaito didn’t say anything to it. Just watched him quietly, not smiling anymore, but listening as Timothy said something through gritted teeth.

Whatever Timothy was trying to explain to Kaito, eventually he ran out of words for it. Just standing and seething, looking more furious and emotional in this moment than he had seemed in a while. Maybe since he had stabbed Kaito.

And Kaito waited...and laughed quietly when the boy suddenly let out a huff of air, his eyes red, but rolling them, Timothy clearly just as annoyed with himself as he was with everything else.

At one point the girls tried to go back for Timothy, but realized something was up and went back to the pumpkins, looking over their shoulders at him every now and again. 

At another point, an adult no one knew, seeing the frustrated, verge of crying child, came up to Kaito and Timothy independently, speaking directly to Timothy and eyeing Kaito suspiciously. Maki watched this part carefully and openly, having otherwise been trying to give them space, but Kaito and Timothy both gave the person matching blank looks, before Timothy got an annoyed look on his face and gave the guy the middle finger, which caused Kaito to sputter and take the kids hand, leading him away from the insulted Dicean.

As Kaito led Timothy back to the group, he said within earshot, “Yeah, but that’s just people being people, kid...he was just worried about you. That’s kind of my point. No one here resents you…”

“Who cares.” Timothy muttered, clearly tired of talking about this as he said, frustrated, “It doesn’t matter. None of them matter.”

“You don’t believe that. You’re just frustrated, kid...look, we’ll talk about it more later, okay?” Kaito promised him, having managed to get the conversation with him started, but not making a lot of headway in, well… getting it to a place where he felt like Timothy was going to be okay. But, it had taken a lot just to get the kid to open up to him a little about how he was feeling, so that was a win right there, at least. Grasping Timothy’s shoulders, he grinned, “And you should give her her bear, Tim. I think it’s a nice gesture, regardless-”

“-’don’t have a crush-” Tim muttered, embarrassed.

“-regardless of why you want to do it. I think she’ll like it. It’ll make her happy. Kay?”

“...yeah.” Timothy said, looking down at the bear he had been carrying literally all day, giving it a nervous look before sighing. “Yeah, okay. Can I go now?”

“Yep! Give me a hug first!”

“No!”

“I will have my hugs, Tim!”

After Timothy managed to wiggle out of his grip, running back to his friends, Kaito went to Shuichi and Kokichi, looking a little tired, but grinning as he said, “Sorry about that! You guys liked the pumpkins? That one that recreated all the continents with the border lines was crazy, right? How did they manage all those little lines!”

Kokichi gave Kaito a soft look and shook his head. “Nah, nah, dad-duties are never something to apologize about. You go off for ‘em any time, and I’ll just be like, ‘oh, yeah, that’s right’, as I nod all sagely ‘n stuff.”

Still, even Kokichi knew that Kaito wanted to move on, so he just took Kaito’s hand and pulled him closer to the pumpkin they were currently admiring. “It’s nuts what people can do, right?! And getting all the little islands in too...and I’m pretty sure that the variance in the oceans are supposed to be, like, trenches ‘n shit. Either that, or they’re playin’ off slips of the knife real well.”

“Mm… I can’t even imagine what the deep sea’s like…” Kokichi trailed off a bit, mind moved on from pumpkins. “Explorers ‘n scientists say that there’s all sorts of stuff down there that we have no clue of… We’ve only had people go, like, 130 feet down, and they can put sensors a little more than that but...like, they say the ocean can be tens of thousands of feet deep! We’re barely breaking the surface! Just imagine all the life that we’ve never seen…”

Kaito was distracted, still thinking of Timothy a little bit, though he was trying to give Kokichi his ear as he reached for Shuichi’s hand with his free one, just wanting to hold both of his loves for a moment as he said absentmindedly, “Yeah. The ocean’s kinda crazy. There’s, like...whales. Whales are huge. I think I’d love to see a whale, really. And that’s just the shit that comes close enough to the surface for us to see. Like… the كراكن and the حبار ضخم come up so rarely… it makes them really hard to track.”

“...the what?” Shuichi asked.

“Hm?” Kaito hummed, looking over at the ex-detective. “What?”

“The what?” Shuichi asked again.

“...the whales?”

“No, no, the….” Shuichi’s brow furrowed, trying to repeat what Kaito said. “The habbar dakhm and the karakin?”

Kaito blinked and Shuichi...before asking, “The what?”

Seeing whales… That was something that they’d gotten excited about. Maybe seeing a migrating pod while they were at the coast…

However, Kokichi was broken out of reverie at the...entirely unfamiliar words Kaito said. And he knew he wasn’t that drunk, especially if Shuuichi was confused too. Raising an eyebrow, he tried to clarify, “The...the stuff you said comes up to the water surface rarely so...they’re hard to track? I didn’t know Kai-chan was so much of a marine biologist!”

“Oh, I’m...heh.” Kaito laughed, blushing, though his pleasure at delighting Kokichi with some random trivia was fighting with his confusion over what that trivia was. “I’m not. I...was talking about big squids, I think? Big squids. Like, big. Probably impossibly big.” Kaito frowned, “Fantasy squids. Um, I think I was just remembering someone saying something like that to me once.”

“Sure...but what were those words you used to describe them? Say them again.” Shuichi insisted. 

“Um...I don’t know. Say them back to me again?”

“But you said them first!”

“I wasn’t paying attention, Shuichi! Come on, man, you know I struggle with names sometimes, just remind me.”

“Karakin and habbar dakhm.”

“Caregan and harbadem?”

“No. Karakin and habbar dakhm. Say it with that accent you had.”

“Sharigan and habaaream.”

“How are you getting farther away from it!?”

“Why are you mad at me!???”

Kokichi hummed softly, not really...clarified that much on the just...off the cuff trivia Kaito had shared. It had sounded so natural and not like extremely niche knowledge at all. 

...hadn’t Kaito told him about a dream he had with a giant squid before? Something about it pinged in his memory…

Sighing, Kokichi shrugged a little. “Maybe they’re just some of those words that you get right just by accident. Like, if you’re trying, you just get the tone and emphasis all wrong. This just means we have to innocuously bring up giant squids in the future, and Kai-chan will idly get the names right again.” He grinned mischievously up at his lovers, similarly confused about it all, but...if Kaito really didn’t know where it had come from, then pressuring would only upset everyone.

“...it is interesting, if there are still megafauna in the deep ocean, though,” he mused, rubbing Shuuichi’s back softly. “Even if the ones you pointed out were fantasy ones. Like...pressure increases the farther down you go, right? That’s why we can only explore so far and not, like, just bring big air tanks or something. For a creature to get enormously huge, and still be able to withstand that sort of pressure...well, they probably wouldn’t be able to take the lack of pressure up here then, huh?”

( الـ(فوكر) الكبار لا يبدون ليمانعون بالضغط عندما يسحبون سفننا اللعينة )

Kaito twitched. He had...only had one glass of cider, right? Geez, he had to get his daydreaming under control today. Between having imaginary conversations with his very dead mother and the very much alive Tengan, now he was making up literal gibberish in his head. 

After the group indulged in the pumpkins to their heart's content, they went and got a few more warm sweets to eat as they looked around, watching, enraptured, as some fire dancers performed a small set for twenty minutes, twirling lit torches between each other, the group around them a safe distance but still as close as they could be, clapping and watching in amazement at their skill. When the fire dancers were done, they reminded the group that performances were happening at the center of the festival, over at the far park, and taking their reminder to heart, the kids begged to go see the performances next.

By the time they got there, some costumed skit was winding to a close, the crowd laughing at some dramatic dying, the collapsing people clearly being played for parody, the person dying kept dramatically going ‘gasp! I am done’, collapsing… and then sputtering back to life to continue his dying monologue every time the other actors tried to speak of the sadness of his passing.

Then, after the actors got up and bowed to the applause, a man apparently in charge of coordinating the open mic night got up on the stage, and asked people to sign up on the paper, but that he’d be calling people from the list randomly, rather than first come first serve. Everyone was encouraged to join, so long as they could keep their act under five minutes, please and thank you!

Caili, Kimiko and Timothy started to whisper to each other, and while Timothy looked reluctant, he allowed himself to be dragged to the list, the kids signing up. “Awww, that will be cute.” Kaito grinned, before looking to his friends, “Anyone wanna sign up?”

Look, the cinnamon apple was probably a terrible idea with how his overfull stomach protested but...it went so well with the last of his tea! And after talking about it earlier, Kokichi really wanted one so… He’d deal with it. 

And getting to sit and watch the open mic performances was absolutely a suitable activity for a stuffed tummy. 

Kokichi shook his head a little, leaning against Kaito. “I don’t even know what I’d do, and...people seeing their heir apparent mess around on stage all tipsy isn’t really the kind of presentation I wanna make of myself. Bet you guys could come up with some cool stuff.”

And really, anything went, as long as it was relatively short...and not even that stopped people. Kokichi grinned as a duo he recognized came to the stage, one with a guitar, as they started a familiar routine for Harvest. The person with the guitar began ad-libbing some romantic ballad while…

He snickered, listening to the first switch off, as the second person stalked the stage dramatically, powerfully continuing their own verse about...skeletons? 

Kaito watched with a somewhat puzzled grin as the song kept going back and forth between a love song and supernatural things, and while he didn’t quite understand it, he still clapped enthusiastically when they were done, putting two fingers in his mouth and letting out a high wolf whistle in appreciation. 

After that was a poem that, while earnestly performed, was...kinda poorly written, though the young man that wrote it was clearly honestly trying. When he was finished, there was an equally enthusiastic applause, the man looking incredibly pleased by the reception as he waved before getting off stage. After him was a woman who sang a song, and while her singing was pretty good, her skill with the guitar was obviously better, and Kaito found himself watching her fingers with interest. She was so quick with them.

Then, after that… “The...Baby Assassin Squad?” the announcer read, sounding confused. “Next up is the Baby Assassin Squad group?”

Maki twitched. The what?

“Oh! Us! That’s us!!” Cali shouted, looking over to Timothy and grasping his hand, “Come on, come on, we’re on!”

Timothy, who had seemed only mildly annoyed to be dragged to the sign in sheet, was pulled to the stage by his two friends and, once up there...suddenly looked less annoyed and more fucking panicked as he stared out into the crowd, his mouth a tight line and his skin starting to sweat as Cali enthusiastically shouted to the crowd, “We’re telling a ghost story!”

“A Baby Assassin Squad ghost story!!” Kimiko shouted cheerfully, as Kaito felt his skin start to singe before he looked up nervously at Maki, who was glaring daggers at him.

“How long have they been calling themselves that, Kaito?”

“Mmmmmm first I’ve heard of it?” Kaito laughed a tad too loudly, trying very, very, very hard not to worry too much about how a fucking name like that might be possibly interpreted by people. They were just kids! Kids said stupid shit! People would realize that and it would be fine and this was fiiiiine. “It’s cute, right?”

“Hrrrnnnnghhhhhhhhh.”

“Mmmm yep! Cute. Very cute.” Kaito assured himself nervously.

“Alright! Come on, Tim, you’re the narrator! Me and Kimiko are acting it out! Go on!...Tim?”

Timothy blinked panic blinks, and for a moment Shuichi worried his nephews courage had failed and someone would have to rescue him, the nine year old clearly frozen by stage fright...when the boy suddenly started shouting, “S-So this is a story about a grandmother!?”

“Yeah! Our grandmother!” Cali said, before looking to Kimiko, this so clearly not thought out beforehand as she looked to Kimiko and said, “I’ll be the grandmother!”

“Kay!” Kimiko said cheerfully, before going to hug Cali, “I love you grandmother!”

Cali nodded wisely, patting Kimiko on the head. “Oh course, my child.”

Timothy twitched, “And she was like...magic and stuff? Maybe a demon. I’m not sure, that was never clarified. Probably a demon! She was a demon grandmother!”

“Graaaaah!” Cali shouted, accommodatingly being a demon.

“I still love you grandmother!”

“Of course, my child.”

“A-and a man comes to grandmother, and he says his...his girlfriend is ugly! And he doesn’t want to marry her!”

“She’s hideous, grandmama!” Kimiko weeped, her voice deepening.

“Get better taste then!” Cali scolded.

“So the grandmother made him blind!” Timothy shouted.

“Ahhhh! Grandma, whyyyy!?”

“It’s what you get, talking that trash!”

“This is amazing.” Shuichi murmured. “This is the best thing that’s happened all day.”

“Maki...why is my daughter calling herself an assassin?” Shirogane whispered.

“HRRRRRRNNNNGH.”

“A-and then a…” Timothy furrowed his brow, trying to remember, “A stable boy falls in love with a cat! And he asks the grandmother to marry the cat!”

“Understandable! It is done!” Cali nodded.

“A cat?” Kimiko asked, looking disturbed. “Shouldn’t I marry a person?”

“The cat becomes a lady!” Timothy called, “Changed by the grandmother!’

“It is done!!” Cali boomed.

“Hurray!” Kimiko cried.

“And...uh…. A woman comes to the grandmother, and she says that her husbands a bastard-”

“He’s a bastard!” Kimiko cried.

“Oh, shoot, language…” Shirogane muttered to herself.

“-and the grandmother eats him!”

“Gobble gobble gobble!!” Cali cried, munching on Kimiko’s shoulder, who dramatically squeaked.

“And that’s it! Stories over! The end!” Timothy shouted, before grabbing Cali and Kimiko’s hands and bolting off the stage in terror.

...and because this was a very nice crowd who had yet to fail to deliver an applause, everyone did so, Kaito loudest and most enthusiastically. 

Kokichi really loved the open stage. Even if there were countless years where he fell asleep in the middle of a performance and had to be carried to bed, he had always tried to stay up as late as he could to watch as many acts as he could. Seeing his people expressing their passion, sharing with the community...he loved it. And now he got to share it with his family.

And see their passion too. 

Kokichi had a feeling Katsuki was watching, keeping an eye on them all. Hell, even if they’d felt alone, Kokichi would only be mildly surprised if he heard Katsuki comment that she’d followed him and Kaito out to the orchard somehow. 

He’d had a similar conversation with her, once, to the one he had with Maki. Worried about her happiness. Worried about her burning herself out. But Katsuki had always enthusiastically assured that this was what she had chosen to do. That it was her happiness.

He had a feeling she was happy seeing Tim retell the story she’d shared on their trip. He adored it himself.

Kokichi clapped loudly along with Kaito at the end of the play, cheering for his nephew and friends, giving them all proud looks when they returned to the group. “Nice job, you three! Improv is really difficult, and I think the story you three brought to life was well done.” 

Grinning at Tim, Kokichi knew that Katsuki was probably watching, but Tim didn’t know that, so… “Do you think you’d wanna recreate it for Katsuki-chan some time? I’m sure she’d love to watch.”

Timothy looked pale and stressed out, but was a life long soldier, and his response to being unbearably stressed was a small grumbling shrug and a small, “Yeah, maybe.”

“I think we did great! We could do that for anyone! I could do that a thousand times!” Cali shouted, hopping from foot to foot, looking thrilled. 

“We got a lot of applause! Did you see, mommy! Did you like it?” Kimiko asked, rushing to her mothers skirt and hugging her hips, Shirogane not letting...too much of her frustration show on her face as she quietly told Kimiko she had done a wonderful job and she was very proud of her. Yes, yes, I liked it a whole lot..though we know not to use the ‘b’ word, right? Right?

“Well I think you did great! Good job you guys, high marks all around-whoop, no, no, let’s go talk over here Maki-Roll~” Kaito said cheerfully, grabbing Maki’s arm before she could manage to reach Timothy and Cali, gritting his teeth but ignoring the pain as he felt a stab on his other thigh now as he dragged Maki away, telling them, “We’ll be right back! You guys did great! Me and Maki just gotta talk about something real quick!”

“You three should do theater together. That was so much fun to watch.” Shuichi said to Timothy, as both of them watched Kaito drag a thrashing Maki away.

“Yeah? Thanks...why does mom look mad?”

“Don’t worry about it, let Kaito sort it out. You didn’t do anything wrong.” Shuichi assured him.

“...kay.” Timothy said, before suddenly looking over at Kimiko. “Hey, Kimi? Can I give you something?” he asked, heading over to her, finding his courage now that his parents weren’t there to watch it, and also, like, really, what the fuck could possibly be scarier than going on stage like that? This was easy in comparison.

Stage fright, maybe? Or maybe just being the focus of Diceans… But hopefully getting the applause they had would help that, and if Cali and Kimiko wanted to pursue more theater then...well, he knew that there were some instances where the narrator was more “off-stage” than the smaller pop-up stage in the park. But Tim had done incredibly well in the face of his nerves, and Kokichi was incredibly proud. 

He hoped he conveyed that. 

And maybe they’d leave the assassin thing go, so Maki wouldn’t blow a gasket. 

Kokichi watched Kaito take Maki over to calm down, but when he heard Tim get ready for the bear… He tried not to stare too obviously, just keeping the kids in the corner of his eye to give them what privacy he could, but still, Kokichi smiled to himself, proud of Tim for this too. 

Wrapping his arm around Shuuichi’s side, Kokichi squeezed him gently, catching his gaze for a moment. 

Timothy had been carrying this bear all day, and both Cali and Kimiko had asked him about it, and he had kinda danced around the issue. But as Kimiko gave Timothy a warm, excited smile, just happy for Timothy to come over and say he wanted to talk to her…

...Tim’s face went redder than his orange hair, and staring at his feet, he finally lifted the bear up at her and said, “I won this in a game earlier and I don’t really like stuffed animals but I saw this and thought you might like it and there wasn’t really anything else worth winning except maybe this sticky ball thing but like I’d lose that in five seconds anyway and it's only sticky which isn’t really that exciting and anyway here this bear is for you I won it.”

Kimiko blinked in confusion, her large, dark eyes shimmering in the lamplight… and behind her Cali’s jaw dropped as she went, “Whaaaat? You won Kimiko a prize!?”

“Yes? Shut up! Yes!” Timothy stammered out, glaring at Cali, who was looking more and more frustrated as he confirmed it.

“I want to win Kimiko a prize!”

“Well you can’t, cause I did it already!”

“Yes I still can! Are the games still open!? Kimiko, I wanna win you a prize!’

“Stop trying to steal my idea, Cali!”

“It’ a free country, I can steal what I want!”

Kimiko looked curiously between her two friends, before laughing, the sound sweet and bell like. “You two are so silly sometimes...Timmy? Can I have my bear?”

Timothy flushed, staring down at his feet again as he handed the bear to her, “Yeah, here, it’s yours okay!?”

“Thank you~! I love it Timothy! He’s the best bear ever! Cali?” Kimiko said, looking to her friend, who was having a conniption, realizing how far behind she was in comparison to Timothy now, who had gotten her a bear!?? Why hadn’t Cali thought of that!?? “Cali?” Kimiko said again.

“Yeah!?” 

“Will you help me pick a name for my bear?” Kimiko asked, smiling brightly, hugging the bear to herself as she said, “Then it’s a little bit like the bear is all of ours! I like that! Timmy won him, Cali names him, I’ll take care of him! Isn’t that fun?”

Cali was beat red, matching Timothy, as she shouted out, “Yes!? That sounds like the most fun!?? Okay!??? Uhhhhhh...Grizzly!”

“Grizzly? Really?” Timothy said to Cali, raising an eyebrow at her.

“Sir Grizzly the First!” Cali doubled down.

“That’s worse…”

“Sir Grizzly the First!” Kimiko cheered, hugging her bear, before running to Timothy, taking the bear and, with a smile, saying to Timothy, “Thank you for Sir Grizzly the First, Timmy! I love him! Sir Grizzly says thank you too!”

Than, in a lower voice, she said through the bear, “Thank you, Timmy!” and then, with a little ‘kyu’ sound, poked the bears nose to Timothy’s, airing like the bear had given him a little kiss.

Timothy collapsed right then and there. Cali gave an outraged cry. And Kimiko, not worried about either of this, ran off to go show her mother her new gift.

“...this is it...this is how I die…” Timothy murmured, staring at the sky from the ground, face beat red.

“Yeah it is! Cause I’m gonna beat you to death! How dare you, how dare you, where’s my bear kiss!! I’ll never forgive you, what was it like, I hate you!!” Cali shouted, punching Timothy’s fallen form, who just ignored her, looking tired but endlessly pleased with himself.

“...pfff.” Shuichi laughed, rolling his eyes, placing a small kiss against Kokichi’s forehead. “It’s like watching Maki and Kaito all over again. Only instead of being angry at each other because of a third person flustering them, it was just them constantly flustering and pissing off each other for it. Man, that phase lasted forever for them...wonder how long this will go on.”

It was probably a good thing that the kids became more focused on each other, because as the situation unfolded, Kokichi became more and more open in his watching, a fond grin growing on his face as he watched just...young, strong friendship. Moments that would grow along with the kids as they did, maybe changing into something new, maybe staying in this dynamic. 

It was adorable.

And Kokichi couldn’t want much more for his nephew. 

Snuggling against Shuuichi’s shoulder, Kokichi giggled softly, still not wanting to intrude on the kids. “It’s so cute,” he whispered. “I know two is no sample size at all but...oh my god, childhood friends like this… If I’m dying, then maybe it’s a good thing Kai-chan will only hear about it later. Tim’s gonna be so embarrassed by us.”

“Kaito’s going to be so upset that he missed it.” Shuichi agreed, his gaze drifting over to where Maki and Kaito had disappeared too. It might take them a minute, but Shuichi trusted they’d work it out. They always did. “And these three are cute. A handful, but, well…” 

Shuichi smirked, “We’re kinda in the best spot for it. Maki, Kaito and Haneda are taking the bulk of trying to keep Tim on the level, and it’s looking like Kimiko and Cali are part of that package. So while they gotta work out the whole ‘all the kids apparently consider themselves assassins in training’ thing, we get to sit back and watch them kiss each other with toys. Comfortable Uncle vantage point…”

He sighed. “Enjoy it while it lasts, Kokichi. We’re gonna be on the front line when its our kid pulling stupid shit.”

Kokichi chuckled softly. “True enough… Still, I try to help out when I can. When I actually have something that will help.” When he and Tim could connect to each other and not have...well, everything stand in the way. But he’d always be open for it. 

Kokichi’s hand slipped down to Shuuichi’s waist, not going as far as touching his belly in public, but...it was a fond echo of something like that. “They’re gonna be a terror. A kid raised by us? They’re gonna pull such stupid shit...and I can’t wait. I know those words are gonna get thrown in my face when the stress comes around, but it’s how I feel now. Depends on them, for sure, but...making mistakes is a treat. Seeing someone grow and learn…”

Kokichi pressed his nose to Shuuichi’s cheek, getting all affectionate and cuddly. “They’re gonna be the most amazing dumbass. All the skills and opportunities in the world to get into trouble.”

“Oh man… I wonder whose temperment they’ll get?” Shuichi murmured, leaning into th cuddles. “I love him, but ideally not Kaito’s...I’d hate to watch the kid struggle with anger management their whole life. Mine isn’t exactly ideal either...I don’t have a lot of ‘get up and go’ in me… I suppose yours would be a nice balance. Hard working, but not overly cautious. Though, the anxiety likely wouldn’t be fun…”

Shuichi thought about that, then chuckled. “Yeah, there’s no way that kids getting out of the anxiety stuff, actually. Between the three of us? Poor kids doomed…”

“...a part of me hopes its a girl. I know that’s almost, like, impossible, considering. But I like the idea of running around with a little girl. I like Tim, of course, but Cali and Kimiko...they’re kinda adorable. I could imagine myself fussing over a little girl.”

As Shuichi fantasized about their future kid (and, honestly, it was easy to do so right now. The festival felt strange and whimsical, like a dream, and in this setting, it was easier for Shuichi to indulge in daydreams that might have been too frightening or jarring back in the castle during the day.), Kaito and Maki came out of the cover of the trees, Maki looking more calm, Kaito sweating but grinning wide as they returned. Coming up to Kokichi and Shuichi, Kaito said, “Well, we’re gonna talk to the kids tomorrow at training about their naming choices, but otherwise everything’s fine. Right, Maki-Roll?”

“Hmmm.” Maki huffed.

“Mm...I always thought it kinda ended up being a mix? Maybe they’ll luck out and get the best from all of us… Shuu-chan’s keen observation and curiosity, Kai-chan’s passion and faith in others...don’t think my commitment would be a bad one.” Kokichi shook his head a little, groaning. “Ugh, I hope not the anxiety! If there’s even a chance...I know for sure stuff like that can be passed down. Least that means we know what to look out for, I guess.”

Shuuichi and Kaito could probably tell at this point, through the conversations they had about their coming child, but...Kokichi wanted so badly to make their kid’s childhood better than his own. To give them freedom and assurances and everything to battle against the dark thoughts that terrorized him in the closet. To be present in their kid’s life and just...if they were struggling? To know how to recognize it, to never be someone their kid didn’t want to talk to. To give them help that Kokichi had so desperately needed.

Kokichi closed his eyes, still holding Shuuichi close, and tried to envision a little girl. Maybe with Kaito’s hair, maybe with Shuuichi’s eyes...any sort of combination of the three of them, really. Having a daughter… 

“I think having a daughter would be nice… But...I wanna make sure she can always wear what she wants. I’m sure Kaito’s gonna go crazy with Baby’s wardrobe no matter what, but...I never wanna force them into anything.” He sighed softly, that little line between his eyebrows forming before he let it go. “...hope they like hugs. It’d be nice to hold them a lot, though I think it’d get smothering with the amount I’d wanna.”

Opening his eyes as he heard footsteps coming towards them, Kokichi greeted Kaito and Maki with a smile, patting the space on the other side of Shuuichi for Kaito to sit back down. “Glad to hear it. Name workshopping always takes a while… Never really know how something sounds until it sounds on stage, too.” 

He sent something of a teasing glance the kids’ ways, pretty sure none of them were paying attention to him, but still. It had been...kind of shocking and highly inappropriate, but Kokichi didn’t think anyone thought more of it than just the momentary shock. Even if the kids thought of themselves as assassins and were serious about fighting...well, with age came wisdom and understanding. And Maki would make sure that they understood it well. 

Snuggling more into Shuuichi’s shoulder, Kokichi listened to the excited flutist on stage for a moment, breathing in as much of his boyfriend’s scent as he could through his mask. “...I think this has been my favorite festival yet.”

Kaito sat down in the spot offered, leaning against his knees, looking at Kokichi and Shichi affectionately, urgent flute playing filling the air as Maki went to go check on the kids. Kaito frowned when he saw Kimiko running around with the bear, looking elated, and awwwww… he had missed it…

That was alright. The kids looked happy. Maki was okay, once she had calmed down and given Kaito another bandage for the new cuts. And his husband was clearly enjoying himself, cuddling against his boyfriend who was clearly enjoying him. 

The air was chilled, but filled with warm, friendly smells. The lights were golden and pretty. The people were laughing and enjoying themselves and it was all pleasant and… Kaito relaxed. Taking it all in.

“Good, ‘Kichi.” Kaito said, “Mine too.”

-

Lo and behold, Kokichi did end up having something of a temperamental stomach the day after Harvest, which didn’t play well with the mild headache (not a hangover, thank you very much) he had, making for a...less than cozy morning. He was certainly not the only person taking some time off after the festival, but instead of resting...Kokichi took that time to start looking at therapists, as he’d promised. 

...not...setting up meeting appointments yet, but...things took time. 

And, for the most part, life settled back down. Work, training, bringing the kids to and from school… Shuuichi had his second visit with Dr. Tenchi, but it ended up being far shorter than the first, simply because they had fewer questions to ask. Dr. Tenchi had affirmed that the nectar being produced by Shuuichi’s body really was just taking the place of breastmilk, and had most of the qualities of it, and, most surprising for all of them, didn’t contain properties of the pollen. So...if Shuuichi chose to breastfeed? It would be safe. 

Dr. Tenchi had quickly moved on from that subject though, when Shuuichi had started to pale and hide his gaze. 

The baby was healthy, about the size of a large apple now, its heart still beating steady and strong. 

Kokichi had joined in on stethoscope time that evening.

However, right after Harvest, the castle had gotten a message from Luminary. A message from Byakuya. Or...rather...Byakuya’s wife, Marigold. Asking to have a double-date talk, of sorts. And they hadn’t been able to line up everyone’s schedules quite right for a few days, but…

Kokichi sighed, his lips pressed together in a worried frown as he sealed the last envelopes of the workday. Now nothing but the call happening within the hour to occupy his mind. 

Kaito was not scared.

Scared!? Scared!? Why would he be scared!? This was great! He was so, so excited! This was so exciting! Isn’t this exciting, Maki!?

Maki watched Kaito pace back and forth in her room, as he had been doing most of the day. He had trained the kids this morning, gotten them to school, come back to the castle, started absentmindedly cleaning their room, went down to the kitchens to see if Chako had anything for him to do, realized she wasn’t there, had come back upstairs, found Maki, and had been following her like a lost dog all day now. He had followed her into town and back, when she had gone to run some errands, had followed her to the library and the post office, so she could keep working on their travel safety plans, and had followed her into her room, where she had just sat down and reserved herself to watching her best friend definitely, absolutely not start to panic the closer the phone call came.

“I think…” she breathed out through her nose. “...it will be fine, yes.”

“Right! Right!? That’s how I feel! And, and, and, it’s about time this happened, too, right? Kokichi’s already met Kaede! They talked! That was nice! It was a little weird because no one was talking about the murder plot and wow could you feel that unspoken conversation above all our heads, but otherwise!?? Nice! It was so nice! My family should meet my husband! That’s a thing husbands and families do! Right?”

“Yes.’ Maki breathed, “I suppose so.”

“And Kokichi and Byakuya are going to get along great! They’re both so smart! How could they not get along? And Marigold! Do you remember Marigold?”

“I do, yes.”

“She was nice, wasn’t she? I remember her being nice!”

“...didn’t you...during one of the masquerades-”

“Nope! Nope! We did not! Holy fuck thank god we didn’t! No, remember, Sebastian’s hair caught on fire and-”

“Ah, right. I do remember. Poor guy...but if it hadn’t, you totally would have-”

“But we did not and she was nice and that’s all that matters!” Kaito said loudly, clapping his hands together, before looking at the clock on her wall with a hopelessly stressed out grin. “Okay. Okay. This is good. This was inevitable, but also it will be good. Everything will be fine. How do I look, Maki?”

“It’s a phone call.”

“How do I look, Maki??”

“Come here, let me fix your hair…”

Visually put back together, Kaito grinned wide, and headed over to the office. Giving a cheerful little knock, as he called out, “‘Kichi! It’s almost time! Are you ready, babe?”

Shuichi, at his desk, sighed, looking at Kokichi miserably. “...do I really have to come? No ones going to want me to say anything…trust me...”

Kokichi gave Shuuichi a dull look. “You’re dating us. If I have to be there, you have to be there. One of the perks of being in a relationship--meeting family.”

Kaede had been just as clever as he’d guessed, and Kokichi had been glad that everyone else was there too, even if they didn’t talk about her plan at all. Well, anything more than establishing that it was all Maki’s choice. 

And Kokichi knew he was going to talk to Byakuya some day. He was hoping that they could at least be brief with each other over the business they’d inevitably have to confer over but…

Well, that was another reason Kokichi wanted Shuuichi there, as someone who knew the social etiquette of Luminary. Kokichi had a feeling he and Byakuya could’ve happily spent their entire times as leader (for however long that happened to be) only talking when international matters needed quick consultation. The fact that Marigold had initiated a social call and Byakuya wasn’t just leaving it to her?

This was a PR stunt. 

Nothing said in the meeting would matter much for that and...he...could be civil with Byakuya… But Kokichi really didn’t want to be. So, he needed as much collateral as possible to restrain him, even in the form of Shuuichi holding his hand. 

Kokichi rubbed his face and smacked his cheeks before taking a breath, drawing himself up and collecting his letters before extending a hand to Shuuichi. “Please?”

Shuichi looked less and less enthused...but sighed, nodding as he took Kokichi’s hand, getting up from his chair. He knew there were certain things he couldn’t avoid. Even if he wasn’t dating them...he wasn’t naive or stupid. Until his child had officially given up its potential claim to the Luminary throne, Shuichi was a player in Luminaries game of politics, if a quiet and entirely unwilling one. Byakuya speeding up his marriage only partially solved that problem. Lessened it. Until their kid could speak? Made the long trip to Luminary? Went through with the ceremony? 

Shuichi couldn’t hope to blend into the shadows and disappear. Not really.

Kaito grinned wide when they opened the door, reaching forward and scooping them both up into a hug as he said, “Today’s the day! This is great! This is exciting! Is everyone excited!?”

Shuichi gave Kaito a small, tired smile. “Yes, Kaito. This should be interesting.”

“Interesting! Yeah! Perfect word! Great word!” Kaito said, letting them go before looking them both over, that bright, manic grin plastered to his face as he said, “Okay! We ready!?”

...okay, the hug was genuinely nice, even if Kokichi could feel Kaito’s nerves from a mile away. With a soft giggle, he hugged his husband back, softening his face into a kind smile. “Yeah, I’m ready, though even if we take a leisurely time walking down to the phone room, we’ll still have a chunk of time to wait before our appointment.”

“As such…” Kokichi held up the small stack of envelopes, starting to head downstairs despite his words. “I’m gonna drop these off before. If you guys don’t wanna just follow me into the mailroom, I can just meet you in the scribes office? But! We can walk down together since it’s all in the same direction anyway.”

...after a moment he spoke up again, something in particular bugging at him, though not as much as the glaring thorn of how much he despised Byakuya that had been jammed into his side since they got the message about the call. Something he’d messed up with Kaede, but she’d been gracious enough to take with humor. Not something he’d have here. Looking back up at his lovers, Kokichi asked, “Hey, so they’re “king” and “queen”, right? Right titles?”

“King Byakuya, Queen Marigold! That’s a nice name. Queen Marigold...not a princess-consort! Because she’s not the princess of another kingdom! So she gets the title of Queen!” Kaito said cheerfully.

“Which, actually...in a funny way, makes her a higher rank than Princess-Consort Sayaka was.” Shuichi mused, smirking at this slightly. “I don’t know why the hierarchy leaned in this particular way, though I suspect it has something to do with royal incestual relationships being the norm however many centuries ago that was a thing, but being a spouse born in the same country as the royal family? Marigold could have been a commoner, and if she had married Byakuya, would have still been a higher rank than Sayaka.”

“I mean, she’s only a higher rank than mom by a little bit...I mean... it’s not that big a difference.” Kaito murmured.

“Big enough that if it had come between them, Marigold would have more right of the throne.” Shuichi pointed out, frowning as he said, “And big enough that if it came between her and Kaede, the temples themselves would have to step in to give it to Kaede.”

“...I should talk to Kaede.” Kaito realized, frowning at that. “I mean...I really should talk to Kaede. She needs to let that go...she’s not going to be queen…”

“No.” Shuichi said, sadly. “She won’t be.”

Kokichi hummed softly, at least agreeing with that. Maybe it was just his cultural influence, thinking that natural names sounded nice, but it did. 

He didn’t begrudge Marigold in the slightest. Other than the few sentences that his friends had tossed around about her being a social butterfly when they were guessing who Byakuya would ask to marry him, he knew nothing about her. In a way, he felt sorry for her, being in a marriage that was devoid of feeling and having to be around Byakuya, but...well. She had likely gone into it knowing that there wasn’t going to be anything emotional about it, and was likely using the position for her own purposes. 

The fact that they were having this call at all spoke of that. 

But as long as she wasn’t a raging asshole threatening war and playing with his husband’s mental state like a discarded kite, he’d have nothing against her. 

Kokichi listened to his lovers talk about the odd hierarchical system in Luminary, stowing away that knowledge just for general use, before he sighed. The way Kaito had explained it before, the monarchy greatly fell to anyone born a Momota, but...he supposed not in this case. 

...was Kaede still planning on taking Marigold out now too? 

...he had no idea if her plan had shifted. If it really needed all those deaths, if things had moved on to more diplomatic ways of changing things. If the rebellion he’d heard pitifully little about was changing things. If the leader going forward would be Byakuya, Kaede, another member of their family...someone else entirely? If the succession line would ever be based on anything but bloodlines. 

...it wasn’t his place or problem to do anything about it. He just had to wait and see how the people themselves fixed it. 

Kokichi sighed. “It’s good to learn to get more of an understanding between our countries but...geez, all that’s too confusing.”

“It helps when your best friends are someone who was a part of that world, and someone who was borderline sociopathically obsessed with it.” Shuichi said, blinking tiredly. “I couldn’t get away from this knowledge if I tried.”

“I took tests based on it!” Kaito said cheerfully. “It took awhile for it all to stick, but we got there!”

As the group headed to the post office, Kaito gave a worried look in the direction of the scribes office, before looking at Kokichi...the scribe office… “I think I’ll wait at the telephone.” Kaito said, grinning wide. “I mean, he won’t, because he sticks to his schedules, but maybe they’ll call early! Someone should be there.” Kaito said, massaging his hands a little before beaming down at them. “You guys gonna meet me there?”

Shuichi nodded, not in a particular hurry himself as he asid, “I’ll stick with Kokichi. We’ll be there soon, Kaito. Want me to check your box for you while I’m there?”

“Please and thank you, handsome!” Kaito said cheerfully, giving them a wave before heading to the scribe office.

Walking with Kokichi, Shuichi was quiet for a moment… before saying, “Kokichi. You know that… it’ll be better if you don’t lose your temper in there. Yes?”

“Good plan!” Kokichi chirped, leaning his head onto Kaito’s arm for a moment. “I’d hate to be late, even as a result of them being early, so...if you don’t mind waiting, it’s nice to have someone there. We won’t be long!”

There was nothing for a bit, just the sounds of their footsteps in the hall and the sounds of people talking in the castle in...all directions, really, and…

“I know.”

Kokichi gave a look over at Shuuichi, his face carefully blank. “I’ve listened to you guys enough, I know.” That in Luminary, it didn’t matter in the slightest how people really felt. And had he been in any other position, Kokichi wouldn’t have cared about that in the slightest, but… He didn’t want Byakuya to hurt Kaito anymore. And the best way for that to happen, in the immediate future, anyway, was for their conversation to be utterly boring. Unremarkable. 

“What, you thought I’d challenge him to a fight over the phone?”

“No.” Shuichi said, his own gaze cool. Not indifferent, just...resigned, as he said, “I don’t think you’d challenge him to a fight. But...physical violence would be easy, in comparison to doing something that I think would be far more tempting to you. Like, say…” Shuichi smiled slightly, “Hanging up the phone on them? Or dismissing anything they have to say as unimportant. Things that would insult them… things Byakuya would feel entitled to take action against.”

“It’s not you that would pay for something like that. It’s not you that would end up fighting that battle, in whatever form it would take...you understand that, right?” Shuichi frowned, staring ahead again, as he said, “Luminary politics might mean next to nothing to Dicea, but for me, Kaito, and Maki? Probably even Timothy...all of that holds real weight. We have loved ones back there. No threat against us is idle… our actions don’t live in a bubble.”

The blank expression on Kokichi’s face was still there, but it softened slightly. “...I know that too, Shuu-chan. Do you know how terrified I was, after learning what Byakuya was actually like, thinking all about the first letter we sent him? The dread I felt, thinking of the...fuckin’ millions of things he could do to Kai-chan, just on a whim? And that’s just the stuff he could do to my husband… If he actually made good and re-started the war? Or even...any number of things he could do to make life even worse for the average person…”

Kokichi sighed, the blank mask lowered for a moment, showing the grief and sorrow and quiet fury he felt. “...none of those things are gonna weigh on him. It’s all pain for everyone else. Cutting off your nose to spite the face…”

“So...as fun as it would be to be a bastard at him…” And, in a breath, the mask was back on. Though, with a slight smile. “Nah. My plan is for this call to be as boring as possible.”

Shuichi nodded, letting out a small, relieved breath of air. “Good. Boring can be good...one last word? One last thing, and, then I promise, I will have full faith in this. No more nagging.”

“...don’t forget what I am to them.” Shuichi whispered. “And let it go. I don’t need you to defend me, if they say anything...unkind. I’ll be okay. Okay?”

A wrinkle between his brows, a clenching of his jaw as Kokichi carefully put his envelopes in the outgoing box. But he nodded. 

And turned to just hug Shuuichi for a moment. “...then let me say really kind things afterward, okay? How they think of you is dumb as hell...and I know we both know that, but let me say it again and again when we’re not talking to them, okay? I love you.”

Shuichi was startled at the hug, but smiled, hugging him back tightly as he said, “I’d like that...thank you. I love you too.”

Shuichi made a quick trip to both his own and Kaito’s box, found nothing in his, and found a letter that he knew without opening it was meant to be an update to Kaito about how many mandatory therapy sessions he had left. Pocketing it, Shuichi went back to Kokichi, gave him an encouraging smile, and took his hand as they headed to the scribe office.

Inside the office, Kaito, with too much anxious energy to really be still, was trying to talk to said Scribe, asking them if they had any siblings themselves, grinning wide as he said excitedly, “I’m talking to my brother again today! I mean, you probably know that, since you have the schedule there and stuff, and also you’re always working the desk whenever I come to talk to King Byakuya, um, but yeah! Do you have any siblings yourself? Do they live nearby? If not, have you gotten a chance to use the phone yourself to call them? I gotta imagine that’s a perk for being a scribe here, that you can use the phone whenever it's not busy?”

Ryouhei nodded sleepily, letting Kaito take up the majority of the conversation, though that usually happened with whomever Ryouhei talked with. “Brother, no, yeah, can be.”

Ryouhei didn’t see Prince Kaito too often outside of when the prince came to talk to his brother, but even that amount was enough to get the gears turning that the talks Kaito had with King Byakuya weren’t exactly good ones. As soon as Kaito came into the office for a call, he was all nervous energy and plastered smiles, rambling on in a way that Ryouhei had come to know as talking so you wouldn’t have to think. 

The look Takashi always gave the prince was a pretty solid clue too. They’d never talked about it, even on the few dinners Takashi had treated him to in town, which Ryouhei had always guessed were ways of having discreet meetings, but he’d known the man long enough to see the determined, protective gleam in his eye. There was plenty to protect Prince Kaito from, but…

Well, Ryouhei had been there for the meetings between the Luminary party and their own administration. Plenty to protect Kaito from. 

Ryouhei’s tired green gaze slid over to the door, seeing Kokichi and Shuuichi arrive, and he pushed himself up from one of the seats in the telephone room, beckoning the two over to sit. “Don’t touch anything but the microphone and speaker. I’ll connect you to your call, then leave. Next appointment is at seven, end before then.”

“Thanks, Ryou-chan!”

“Okay! Great! I know the drill! Done this a few times now. Will keep doing it. Not a thing that stops.” Kaito said, looking over to the telephone, before waving cheerfully at Ryouhei and saying, “It was awesome seeing you again! You’ll have to tell me about your brother next time!”

Shuichi gave the scribe a respectful nod, before going to sit on the chair farthest from Kaito, leaving the middle one open for Kokichi, a certain sort of...distance coming over his expression as he did so. No one but Kaito or Kokichi could see him, but still Shuichi squared his shoulders put his hands over each other on top of his waist, and lowered his eyes slightly...before the whole effect was ruined when Kaito reached over and squeezed his shoulder, shaking him a little. 

“Hey, what’s the matter, handsome? You look nervous? It’s fine! It’s just Byakuya! You basically grew up together! What’s to be nervous about?”

“We...certainly grew up in proximity to each other.” Shuichi said dryly. “And I’m not nervous. I’m just ready to get this done.”

Just Byakuya. Just the king of another nation and someone that Kaito would bend over backward to please. 

Taking the center seat, Kokichi took a steadying breath and...he held his hand down between the seats, hoping that Shuuichi would take it but...he wouldn’t begrudge Shuuichi’s own coping methods to get through this. (Again, Kokichi promised himself to...well, it’d be easier to pay attention to everything Byakuya and Marigold said if he decided to directly refute everything they said to Shuuichi later.)

They still had a little time before their appointment, truly no need for them to have rushed at all, but when it was time, Ryouhei fussed with some settings on the operator board that Kokichi had seen the schematics for, but still didn’t understand at all. There was a crackle of static, and Ryouhei exchanged brief words with the operator on the other side, before setting up the speaker so they could all hear, setting the microphone down in a little stand so no one had to hold it the whole time.

With a little nod, Ryouhei left the room, and Kokichi took a breath, mask in full effect with a light smile. 

“King Byakuya, Queen Marigold, it’s a pleasure to meet you both. Thank you for taking the time to have this phone call with myself, Kaito, and Shuuichi.” His voice was light and friendly without losing any sense of politeness, and...even if Shuuichi had asked him to leave it alone, Kokichi wasn’t going to leave him out of this. 

There was silence for a moment, a small, buzzing sound…

“Heir-Apparent Prince Kokichi.” King Byakuya’s voice filled the room, that small, light buzz accompanying it, the audio not perfect, but still clearly his voice on the line, for the two men in the room who knew how to recognize it. Shuichi took Kokichi’s hand in his. His face carefully blank. And Kaito’s...

Kaito’s face lit up. He straightened up, leaning towards the phone, like he might be able to physically get closer to it. His grin all teeth, but entirely sincere. Thrilled.

Byakuya’s voice buzzed through the room, continuing on, “This meeting is long overdue. I must, I’m afraid, own up to my own part of why such an important conversation has been held off for so long. The events of Luminary in the past four months have taken up a considerable amount of my time, as you might be able to imagine. That said, let me give a long overdue congratulations on the wedding. I do hope that you will find some use in the treasures our family sent along as a wedding gift.”

Kaito stiffened, and said, “They went over really well, Byakuya! They’re some of the more expensive pieces Kokichi owns now!”

“Kaito.” Byakuya said. “Don’t interrupt when I’m talking to your husband. You will be called on in time.”

...it was a complicated feeling, seeing that smile on Kaito’s face. Kokichi had chosen to trust Kaito that he had genuine reasons to admire his brother but...it was still difficult. Measuring that admiration and familial love with...everything. 

...he was glad one of them was happy for this call. 

And...at first it was alright. But almost immediately Kokichi’s jaw tightened and he held Shuuichi’s hand a little tighter. 

It wasn’t, like, every day or anything, but Kokichi had been a part of a few phone calls since it had been installed in the castle, and not just with Kaede. One of the first things Aiichi did, after all, was call every town in Dicea, wanting to personally talk with everyone he could, if not every town representative. Kokichi had been there for a lot of them, and those calls? Even with the slight delay and the feedback, people were constantly yelling and talking over each other, acting like it was a real, in-person conversation. It had always been so lively, that if Kokichi closed his eyes, he could imagine that everyone was right there, maybe shouting through a megaphone or something. 

...don’t lose your temper. Don’t even snark. 

“Thank you for your well-wishes, your highness,” Kokichi said in a perfectly even tone. “And, as Kai-chan said, the treasures your family gave as gifts are quite wonderful. I can see them being treasured in our family as far down as I can imagine. And in return, I believe congratulations are in order for your own wedding. While it is regretful that international travel in inadvisable at the moment--and as such as you said, I am completely understand to why we have not spoken until now--and Kai-chan and I would have loved being able to witness such a special moment in your lives, I hope that our message of congratulations made it to Luminary in time. It may seem redundant to reaffirm them now, but a personal touch can mean all the more in matters such as these. We wish nothing but the best for your new family.”

“Oh, Prince Kokichi, that’s so generous!” 

There was a new voice now, feminine. Bubbly. Loud, as if the speaker was projecting their voice for the audience in the back rows, despite not needing to speak much above a normal tone for the microphone. 

The voice went on, “This is Queen Marigold, and can I just say- oh, Bya, don’t look at me like that, what was I supposed to do, sit here and look pretty?- can I just say, Kaito, Prince Kokichi, Shuichi! Your presence was dearly missed at the wedding! But having that letter read during the recital was such a comfort! It was almost like you were there with us! Kaito!”

Kaito, who had been staring at his hands, looked up. “Yes?”

“It’s Marigold! Oh, Kaito-oooo, why didn’t you come to my weddiiiiing!? I so very much wanted you there!”

“For literally all the reasons myself and Prince Kokichi just said, Marig-”

“Oh, I know, I know, I’m just teasing him. But Kaito, you really were missed! And Shuichi! Are you there, darling? I haven't heard a word from you yet!”

Shuichi nodded, despite her not being able to to see him, saying politely “Good Day, Queen Marigold.”

“Ahhh, there he is! Shuichi, we’ve met before, do you remember me? You were investigating my cousin back in, oh...five years ago? Something along those lines. You questioned me! Do you recall me?”

Shuichi blinked. “Oh….um. Yes. I apologize-”

“What? No, don’t, my cousin was a boar. I just wanted to say that I remember speaking to you and you were so calm and composed and put together, very impressive! Left a wonderful impression on me, and I am thrilled to know that you and I are family now! It’s very exciting, congratulations on the baby, darling! Oh you all must be so excited!!”

Kokichi knew that he would have to be boring and reserved and polite the whole time, but… Marigold’s voice was almost like a breath of fresh air. Even if it was just pretend, hearing someone at least pretend to be nice was enough for Kokichi to loose some of the tension in his neck and go back to just comfortably holding Shuuichi’s hand. 

It did help a lot in his book that she was willing to talk back to Byakuya. 

And that she actually acknowledged Shuuichi. 

It didn’t make her safe, but it made her more tolerable than Kaito’s ass of a brother.

“Thank you, Queen Marigold.” And while his tone was polite, there was a certain quality of sincerity in his thanks. “Having a new addition to our family on their way--it’s a sort of excitement I can hardly describe!”

He squeezed Shuuichi’s hand again, but it was different this time. More affectionate, and even if Shuuichi wasn’t looking his way, Kokichi still gave his boyfriend a soft look, taking his moments where he could. 

While there wasn’t much of a pause in conversation, nothing more than what was natural, Kokichi’s mind was whirring through a minefield of things to say. Suggesting an in-person meeting once things were safer meant stressing both of his lovers out, even if it was just something said to appease the other side. Mentioning the plan to get a family photo done once the baby was born, perhaps even a copy to send to the new aunt and uncle, was...maybe “superfluous” enough to draw Byakuya’s ire, and perhaps some sort of offence, implying that Luminary wouldn’t be stable enough to visit even seven months out. Mentioning anything about Marigold and Byakuya thinking about children before they brought it up was just...way too invasive, even for a regular conversation. 

...in a regular conversation, he had plenty to say, but one like this…

Well. Time to take a chance. 

“We’re very thankful that the phone lines were able to be constructed during the autumn; it’s rather difficult to send family updates when letters have to contend with the Dicean winter. Luckily, there is no such issue with phone lines.”

Open for communication, but not obligatory, an acknowledgement of Marigold and Byakuya as family. Fingers crossed.

“That’s a point, actually.” King Byakuya buzzed through. “I’m actually quite interested in getting into contact with this Dicean inventor, Miu Iru-”

“Oh, Bya, that’s talk for his father, not him. Just be patient.” Queen Marigold chuffed him, before saying earnestly, “But Prince Kokichi, you’re absolutely right, the phone lines are an absolute miracle! Truly we are blessed by the gods! Atua be pleased!”

“Atua be pleased!” Kaito echoed earnestly. 

“Atua be pleased.” Shuichi muttered.

Byakuya just grunted. 

“But! As useful as the phone lines are to keeping us connected, we must absolutely make time and effort to have you come to Luminary, Prince Kokichi! I’d say within the next two years. Three at the very most. Luminary should be well into it’s recovery period by that point, and the baby will likely be speaking, so I’d say the third spring out is the absolute latest we should expect you to arrive! What do you think, Prince Kokichi? Is that manageable?”

Oh Kokichi would adore hearing how Miu would talk to Byakuya… Or, maybe not. Cruel and derogatory statements tended to turn Miu into a horny puddle. While it would still be hilarious, he could go for just hearing about the outcomes and skipping the actuality of what was said. 

Still, he could give Miu a heads up that Byakuya wanted to talk with her. 

Kokichi raised an eyebrow at what Marigold brought up next, a precise subject he had avoided but...huh. Well, this was a little more like what he was expecting. 

“Far be it from me to keep family from each other,” Kokichi said with a light laugh in his words. Even if he wished he really could keep Kaito and Byakuya from interacting… “As soon as it’s safely feasible, I have to say I’m quite looking forward to international travel. Kai-chan’s spoken so fondly of Luminary than even without the biggest reason of having a reunion of sorts, paired with the first time a few of us would be meeting in person, I’m personally interested in traveling to Luminary some day.”

A yes without a promise. Enough space to work around in without being rude or committing a slight. 

Trying to give Shuuichi a very purposeful look, he continued on. “And of course you are both more than welcome to visit Dicea. Considering what I’ve learned about our respective climates, I could easily imagine a time where Luminaries would find some reprieve in our milder Dicean summers, and in return Diceans could beat the snow for a milder winter in Luminary. A complement that inspires travel!”

Looking over to Kaito with a smile, Kokichi reached out to put a hand on his husband’s arm. “After experiencing the one coming up, I don’t know how eager you’d be to remain in Dicean winters, hun. Travel can be a nice way to get around it, don’t you think?”

Kaito gave Kokichi an openly surprised look, saying to him quietly, “I could go back during the winter?”

There was a beat of silence from the other end of the line as well, before Queen Marigold said, “Oh, that’s a wonderful idea!”

“We have to wait until we can get these damned rebels and terrorists under control…” King Byakuya muttered, but it sounded more like he was talking aloud to himself. There was something hesitant and thoughtful in his tone though. Apparently, whatever the Luminaries had thought Kokichi was going to say, that had been a genuine surprise. “But once the roads are safe…”

“Oh! Before we all go any further, I almost forgot to say! Prince Kokichi, Luminary officially wishes Dicea a Happy Harvest! And we’ve set up a gift for you!” Queen Marigold said, sounding excited.

“As this is the first year of peace between our nations, we decided a showing of good will during one of your more important holidays may set a good precedence for our continued peace and cooperation.” King Byakuya said, sounding bored with this part. “And as a sign of good faith, Luminary is donating a portion of our military workforce to help speed up the repairs to the border farmlands. Two hundred of our men for three months, to be tasked as you see fit in the repair. These are men who were front line fighters that have not been called back yet and, as you might have guessed, their contracts will not send them to their next stations for those three months, and we thought a useful way to keep them busy would be doing much needed repair work.” 

“The offers already been made to King Aiichi, though we haven't heard word yet if he’s accepted the aid, but I thought you would perhaps appreciate hearing the offering from myself...considering our recent, difficult history.” Byakuya said, his voice… tense. “I don’t have the time or resources to argue over misunderstandings and bad information, when I have actual problems to take care of. I expect this outreach on my part to settle the matter entirely.”

The look Kokichi sent back was surprised as well, along with confusion and worry. While he nodded, this conversation needing to be had when they weren’t on the phone… Kaito could go back to visit Luminary whenever he wanted, once the roads were safe and there wasn’t a huge, active rebellion against the Momota family happening. It was his home. Was he not expecting that?

Maki had said that Sayaka regularly went back to visit Novoselic. Was it that much of a difference?

Kokichi was further surprised by the well-wishes towards Harvest and...a gift? Kokichi’s eyes widened as Byakuya explained it, just...genuinely stunned. 

It made sense. There had been a lot of damage done on the frontlines, and Kokichi had actually been helping out in allocating resources for the teams currently working to heal the land and infrastructure in the area on the Dicean side. And having a job for people currently out of work...well, Kaito had explained it before, that it was difficult to find work for people in Luminary without running into stubborn walls. Being paid for a government project was a way around that, and so...it ended up being beneficial to both their countries. 

...and Byakuya was doing this to...make it up to Kaito and Kokichi personally? (He knew it was more to him. Kaito would really only care about the revitalization efforts because it made Kokichi happy. But...maybe he still wanted to believe that Byakuya cared about his brother’s feelings too.) 

...damn. Apparently Luminaries couldn’t differentiate the difference between personal feelings and policy, like, at all. He sort of wished Byakuya was a raging asshole more often so he would actually take the steps to fix his country. 

Of course, Kokichi kept all that to himself. 

“B...King Byakuya, Queen Marigold, I don’t know what to say… This gift is more than generous, and sincerely, thank you.” His mask wasn’t cast away, but Kokichi decided to...let a bit more of his true feelings through. Rubbing Kaito’s arm and holding Shuuichi’s hand, the expression on Kokichi’s face was grateful. “I know my father sent an official letter of good tidings to you all for Atua Week, but an offer like this… It’s truly representative of the cooperation we should be honoring as neighbors.”

They’d have to think of something for the next Luminary holiday, or even just as a gift of thanks. He knew many people would consider this offer as...a bare effort, considering that Luminary’s aggression was the reason why the farmlands had been razed in the first place...but good PR could do wonders. Luminary was under new administration, and while they needed the time and resources for their own healing, they sought to offer some to Dicea. 

...he wouldn’t be surprised if Aiichi was only considering the offer to buy time in order to talk with folks about helping restoration efforts on the Luminous side. 

Kokichi let out a soft, thankful laugh. “I will definitely poke Aiichi about this offer so he can get back to you in a more timely manner. And…” A small breath. He didn’t forgive Byakuya for what had likely been the theme of Kaito’s entire life. But he needed to phrase what he did mean in a way a Luminary would understand. “Your highness, you can rest assured--I wish for nothing but peace and flourishing of our nations. It is my goal within my duties as heir apparent, and then when I am leader, that we all reach a brighter future, and that includes the cooperation and alliance of our countries. I will strive to do all that I can to never impede upon that goal myself, and to work out the problems that wish to do so independently.”

“So...as a representative of Dicea, and personally, thank you.”

“Oh, well said.” Queen Marigold said, a small clap coming through the speaker, as she said, “Oh, see, Bya? We should have done this immediately. This is going so well!”

“Hm.” Byakuya hummed.

“Okay! Next thing I would like to bring up! If-”

“No.” Byakuya said, cutting off his wife. “It’s my turn now. Quiet.”

“...of course darling, you just had to say!”

Byakuya, sounding more intent now, something decisive in his voice, said, “Shuichi? There’s been a considerable amount of confusion over your situation. We’re clearing this up now. I want a full report of both your status and the baby.”

Shuichi’s vision tunneled. “I am two months pregnant, roughly ten weeks-”

“How?”

“I regularly consumed a fungus called despair pollen from Danganronpa that changed my biological makeup over a period of roughly two months.”

“Right. We’ve received reports of this drug. We thought that might be the case, but I wanted to confirm. God knows half the information I get from Dicea is garbage and speculation.” Byakuya scoffed. “Continue with your report.”

“The baby is developing normally, with no signs currently of complications. I am in recovery from the drug and am no longer consuming it and regularly taking medicine to ease the long term effects, such as lowering spore counts. I am in good health, though experiencing abnormalities due to the transition the drug created.”

“Any danger to your life or danger to the child through those abnormalities?”

“Not currently. Danger may be possible after the pregnancy itself, with certain behavioral symptoms returning that could put me in danger, but the medicine is being refined for that as well.”

“Whose refining your medicine?”

“Dr. Seiko. She lives in the capital.”

“We’ll get into contact with her.” Byakuya huffed. “Shuichi, is the baby a Momota?”

“We are uncertain.”

“How?”

“Uh! Hey! That’s not…” Kaito interrupted, reaching over Kokichi to grasp Shuichi’s shoulder, jostling him a little out of it as he said quickly, “Byakuya, just take our word for that one, okay? We’re not certain and can’t be until later in the pregnancy! But, but, either way, I’m claiming the baby in myself and Kokichi’s marriage.”

“It still matters if it's biologically yours, Kaito. You know this.”

“Yes! But, but, that’s why we’re doing the ceremony! So… so that’s okay, right?”

“...we’ve already discussed this. And, if you’re so eager to interrupt and be told again, I will be happy to go over this again with you, in detail, later. Now be silent. I’m speaking to Shuichi now.”

“Yeah, yes, sorry.” Kaito murmured.

...Shuuichi said it was okay. That it’d make things worse if he butted in. Tried to get them to actually have a conversation. 

...it still didn’t make it right. 

But knowing what Byakuya could do, Kokichi just clenched his jaw, and held Shuuichi’s hand, mask back in place and...he could just hope his partners couldn’t feel the burning fury underneath. 

He was glad for Kaito interrupting when it came to the matter of their sex life, not wanting that to get out but...unknowing if that was a line to cross or not, but as Byakuya dismissed him again…

“Pardon me for speaking up on this matter, but I’ve had a question about citizenship as it pertains to our child. I have been informed that the line of succession in leadership in Luminary is predicated on the bloodline of the Momota family. However...while being born in Dicea, would our child inherit Luminary citizenship from Kai-chan and Shuu-chan? In Dicean law, it’s not an automatic process, and depends on the other nation to either grant or deny it.” Kokichi’s voice, somehow, was even and lightly curious, like he wasn’t discussing the future and well-being of his kid.

Byakuya sighed, frustrated to be interrupted again, but was willing to slightly be more patient for the heir-apparent as he said, “Citizenship for descendants of nobility is automatic, regardless of location of birth, while commoners born in forieng territories must simply go to an embassy and have one of their parents have proof of citizenship during the time of birth. It’s a simple process, as Luminary likes to keep its citizens. A nation's power is largely in its people, after all.”

“And even if all of that wasn’t the case, the Momota blood is tracked and watched vigilantly by the Atuan temples. Of course it’d be a simple fix if I could just deny the child its citizenship, but those crazies at the temples would threaten to denounce me for trying to suppress information about the other chosen and subverting Atua’s will. And in-fighting with the religious organization that gives my family authority in the first place is a headache I don’t fucking need right now.”

Kaito suddenly looked alarmed, cracking his joints in his hands and grinning wide as he said, “But, it’s fine! We don’t need to do that! In three years, three years, okay, we’re going to do the whole cere-”

“Kaito! I already know that! You know that because I told you that! I am currently in the process of fixing your mistakes! So shut your mouth and let me!” 

Kaito nodded and said nothing. His face stressed and his back rigid.

Byakuya was taking some heavy breaths, and there was a small murmur from the queen, impossible to make out, before Byakuya grumbled, “I don’t need to calm down. I need everyone to stop talking.”

There was some laughter, and more murmuring… and Byakuya said, “Shuichi. What are the chances it’s a Momota?”

“Based on the information provided to me, it’s more likely than not.” Shuichi said quietly. Looking guiltily over at Kaito, not enjoying watching his boyfriend shouted down and embarrassed in front of both himself and Kokichi.

“Understood… Shuichi, I want you to know that as the King of Luminary, and the child's uncle, I have decided to publicly support the child as a Momota before it’s birth can confirm it. This support, the claim, means I can offer you every resource, financial or otherwise, that you will ever possibly need, and that if you should ever need to return to Luminary for any reason, you have sanctuary within the castle, and are counted among Luminary nobility, through your connection to Kaito, regardless of a status of marriage. Your child will not be viewed as a bastard within Luminary laws, as I have claimed it’s legitimacy. Do you understand?”

“I….yes, I think so…”

“Good. With that said, we are also adding you to our list of finances, and you will be receiving an allowance from us from now on. If you ever are in need of anything else, you can reach out to me directly, or any of my staff. However, with these benefits come danger. Shuichi, you will forward from now on copies of all letters sent to you to my administration, and we will be keeping track of who calls you. You will accept no deals or offers or contracts without our lawyers or a lawyer that has been vouched for looking over the details. You will not travel without approval as well, until the child has given up its claim. Do you understand?”

“...” Shuichi looked overwhelmed. He looked at Kokichi, uncertain what he should do.

...hm. It was a phase Kokichi often thought about, if only in the back of his mind, but the way Byakuya said it… Like a nation’s power resided in the number of its people. Like a nation would gain in power the more citizens it had. Not that a nation was its citizens, whether they were a group of ten or ten million. Maybe it was just the phrasing but…

Kokichi grit his teeth more as Byakuya lashed out at Kaito--the fucker, like he was the only fuckin’ person in this call--but the way he rubbed Kaito’s arm was gentle. Shuuichi wasn’t the only person he wanted to praise after this. 

And with the deal Byakuya posed… He didn’t know what being a “bastard” meant in Luminary law. He knew what the word meant, where it came from to be an insult but...it had never made much sense to Kokichi. Why people were so hung up on marriage, like it wasn’t just an excuse to party. Hell, if he had to guess, the vast majority of Diceans were “bastards”, simply because going through the process of marriage was just...something extra. 

But. Aside from that. 

Being considered nobility was...not something Kokichi understood very well either, but he understood having the protection of the castle, should Shuuichi find himself in Luminary. The money was...whatever, but couldn’t hurt, and direct favors he didn’t see a downside about. Not accepting deals just...kind of seemed like common sense, but the letters and the travel… 

Kokichi leaned over to whisper to Shuuichi, feeling an obligation to speak his mind when his boyfriend turned to him. “It doesn’t seem like there’s anything he said that would hurt you. Just because you have confirmation that you would be protected in Luminary isn’t them trying to get you to go over. The letters...I believe we could bargain to you sending copies just for people trying to solicit you, and the travel… We will travel within Dicea as we please, but he can be rest assured that our security detail will not be leaving anything up to chance, especially where it would come to be about some traveling Luminary hoping to manipulate you or something. Does that sound okay? Do you have other concerns?”

Shuichi gave Kokichi a somewhat stressed out look, listening intently, but his eyes kept glancing over to the phone, and there was a clear sense of urgency in his tone as he whispered back, “U-uh, I mean...no I don’t think so…? Um...am I meant to-”

“Shuichi. Am I talking to air? Confirm you understand.”

Shuichi looked uneasily at the phone, and said uncertainly, “W-we...um, we agree to...I don’t think I want to send copies of personal letters, but-”

“That is not what I said.” Byakuya said. “I told you to confirm you comprehend the circumstances as I’ve laid them out to you.”

“U-uh...I mean, yes, I understan-”

“Now, now, Bya~” Queen Marigold interrupted Shuichi, her voice buzzing cheerily through the room, “This is why no one likes you. You can’t just bully them into accepting your terms. It’s clear Shuichi has some misgivings. Let’s hear him out.”

“I have already thought this through. I don’t need to waste time explaining things to an indentured that I’ve literally just offered the best possible plan to-”

“Not an indentured!” Kaito said quickly, grinning as he said, “In fact, a member of nobility now! So… Byakuya, I think we’re worried about the idea of you reading all of his personal correspondence. That’s not fair. He doesn’t need that from you.”

“Oh, it’s not, is it?” Byakuya sneered. “Because you’re so good at telling when someone is being fooled? Could you not have used those keen powers of deduction on your most recent therapist, Kaito?”

Kaito flinched at that, but kept on, “Oh, no, I mean, I definitely need that stuff! But Shuichi’s one of our best trained detectives, Byakuya, second only to Kyoko. It was literally his job to be one of the people at the castle we sent suspicious mail to for him to double check. Isn’t it counterproductive to have Shuichi send personal mail to people that we know for certain are inferior to him in working out it's a fake? That doesn’t make sense, right?”

“...” Byakuya grunted, before saying, “...there’s maybe something to that.”

“And, Maki is Prince Kokichi’s security officer! We talked about that last time, remember?”

“Kaito, if you don’t get to the point-”

“I mean, I mean, in the sense of  the travel stuff! Maki’s in charge of making certain Kokichi, and his immediate family, travel safely within Dicea! And we trained Maki to do that ourselves! So, giving that obligation to someone in Luminary is, again… kind of counter-productive, right? When we already know Maki’s training is Luminary-quality to begin with? I mean… isn’t them being the best of the best the reason you decided it was worth fighting to get them sent with me in the first place? Because you trusted them to do stuff like this?”

“...”

Kokichi’s jaw was starting to hurt with how tightly he was clenching it, his gaze at the telephone starting to break through the cool blankness of his mask, some of his fury and, really, just plain annoyance at Byakuya starting to show through, but…

But Marigold provided the break they needed, and, even in the face of blatant manipulation, Kaito stood up for Shuuichi. In the way Kokichi wanted to, but didn’t know how without everything blowing up. 

Instead of fury, Kokichi looked up at Kaito in nothing short of pure adoration and pride. 

“We can understand if you have additional concerns about each item,” Kokichi chimed in, resting his head on Kaito’s arm and nuzzling him briefly. “It is not only the immediacy of someone trying to coerce Shuu-chan, but knowing who would try, correct? That is the sort of information that we would freely pass on, as it doesn’t only affect us. Furthermore, while I have full faith in Maki-chan’s abilities to see the danger in anywhere we would travel, international travel is always more of a beast. In the case we would be considering leaving the country, it is only natural to let all family members know--in your average case, simply to inform them that correspondence would be delayed or perhaps impossible until certain points, but it is even more prudent in our case, considering our stations and the specific dangers posed to us.”

“Your plan is well thought out, King Byakuya, but for the matters of privacy and freedom, we would prefer those two changes--to use our own discretion towards what mail to send to you, and to use our own resources when travelling within Dicea. Are those acceptable terms?”

There were some more murmurs from the other side of the phone, that small, insistent buzz ongoing, and as the murmuring continued, Kaito notably relaxed. There was a reason Kaito was okay with continuing to interrupt his brother, despite being yelled at over and over for it. Every now and again, something he said got through, without setting his brother off. And, between himself and Kokichi, the next thing Byakuya said, he said in the tone as if it was obvious that this was how the conversation was going to go, as if he had just been waiting for them to fulfil their roles in some elaborate scene he had already planned out in his head in advance (because god forbid he ever admit someone else was right). 

“Well, of course. Maki can ensure travel safety and Shuichi himself has been well trained in differentiating sincere conversation and schemes. Honestly, the fact that it took you so long to catch onto that is a little disappointing, Kaito. I had hoped travel would make you quicker than that, but then, I suppose I should be used to tempering my expectations.”

And because Kaito couldn’t...really tell the difference, between when he had actually fuckd up and when Byakuya was licking his own wounded pride, he frowned, a flash of guilt rushing across his face.

Again, another cheerful clap rang out through the phone line, and Queen Marigold said, “So! We have it worked out. Shuichi is in good health, as is the baby! He’s being offered the best care possible, and if any of you should need anything at all, you have the Momota family and Luminary governments full resources at your disposal! Shuichi, we intend to watch over you for the rest of your life, regardless of the legal status of the child, and all we ask in return is you utilizing our administration for certain safety issues! And, in roughly three years, your child's last ties to Luminary politics will be cut in ceremony, and you both will be allowed to live comfortably and freely for the rest of your days! I think that is a very fine plan! Shuichi? You will work very hard to teach your child to speak within that timeframe, yes? And you will follow through on the ceremony when the time comes? For your own and the child's best interest?”

“Y-yes...I don’t have any desire to claim the throne…”

“Of course not! Good lad!” Queen Marigold said cheerfully, sighing as she said, “Well, that clears all that silliness up. Oh, it’ll be so lovely to have a child so close in age to their cousin! We haven't quite started yet, but it should be any day now, Shuichi. Your child will only be a few months older than mine! Oh, when we all visit each other, I do hope they end up inseparable friends!”

“I’m sure it’ll go well, Queen Marigold.” Shuichi said politely. Still trying to get his head around everything that just happened.

“Of course, of course. Oh, Shuichi, I really am so indebted to you. After all, if you hadn’t gotten knocked up, Byakuya would have never married me. I’m lucky you made him so desperate.” Queen Marigold laughed. “Though, of course, once my own baby is born, I’ll have to start the uphill battle of staying queen. Wouldn’t want the royal assassin to help me through a noose, just because I’ve lost my use to my dear Bya, yes?”

She laughed some more.

Beyond her laughter, there was silence. Shuichi looking stunned, and Kaito looking stressed.

Kokichi rolled his eyes a bit, more than done with Byakuya’s shit at this point, but...it still bothered Kaito. Once you spoke something, it became the truth, no matter if it was a blatant lie. Kokichi nuzzled Kaito a bit more and rubbed his thumb down the side of Shuuichi’s hand. They were in the home stretch now. 

And for whatever Byakuya and Marigold thought about Baby Saihara’s claim and what they wanted, they were on the same page for this. No one there wanted the baby to grow up in a position to inherit the Luminous throne. Some exposure was inevitable, but Kokichi would be elated for the kid to grow up with as little politics in their life as possible. 

And...that could be assured, at least from the Luminary side, as soon as they could talk, and they could travel to Luminary. 

However, Marigold didn’t stop there in her summation and…

Shuuichi might’ve been stunned, Kaito was stressed, but Kokichi… Kokichi looked surprised for a moment before he grinned. 

Right then and there, he decided he rather liked Marigold Momota.

“It would be a lovely future, for our children to be friends and enjoy the time with both their aunt and uncle, and mess of uncles over here respectively. But in the present, we wish you all the best in taking the next steps in your own family. Whatever the circumstances, children are to be cherished.”

Both Katio and Shuichi gave Kokichi openly baffled looks, both taken off guard at how much he had breezed over that last statement. Over the phone, Marigold laughed again, saying, “Certainly, certainly. Children are treasures. And if we are very lucky, our children will have an easier time keeping our respective communities in balance than either us or our fathers have. May the future be kinder than today.”

She sighed, for a moment...and then there was a small laughter, the sound distant, as if she was looking away from the phone, as she said quietly, “Not even going to try to refute it?”

“Why should I bother soothing your paranoias? Time will prove my commitment to this marriage.”

“Oh, look at that. You are capable of pretty words, Bya. I knew you could do it.” Queen Marigold laughed, before sighing again. “In the name of both Luminary, and consequently my own, continued survival, there are two more things I’d feel much better to get out in the open now, if my family would indulge me. And, for this first one, I’d just like to stress that I am only trying to lay my cards on the table, so that no one else's paranoia gets the better of him.”

“Personally, I’m actually quite finished with this group call, and would in fact love a word with you in private, dear-”

“Kaito?” Marigold called out.

Kaito looked over to the phone. “Yes?”

“I am your brother's wife, who is your king. And I am queen of Luminary, which you are still a citizen of. That gives me a certain level of authority and responsibility to you. Do you agree with that?”

“Oh, um...yeah. Yes.” Kaito nodded, “Sure.”

“I intend to take that responsibility seriously, along with all my duties as queen. Now, darling, there’s a terrible rumor going around, did you know? That you’ve been given obedience conditioning. Is that true?”

Kaito blinked. “No. That’s not true. That’s just a rumor.”

Over the phone, Byakuya buzzed, “I’ve already told you that’s not true, what’s the point of-”

“I was just worried, Kaito.” Queen Marigold said, before saying cheerfully, “Kaito. Your surrogate shouldn’t be part of such stressful conversations while in such a delicate way. Take Shuichi to his room. Thank you dear.”

Kaito blinked.

He shouldn’t force Shuichi away from this conversation, Shuichi wouldn’t appreciate that (but she’s right.), or, he should at least ask Shuichi if he was tired, or wasn’t feeling well (she knows better.), but, well, if she had brought it up like that in the first place, maybe she had already noticed something he hadn’t (he was misunderstanding something). He should probably do it just in case, just to make certain (he didn’t want to make everything worse.).

Looking over to Shuichi, Kaito grinned, standing up, the sound of his chair going backwards against the flooring clear as day. “Hey, bud, let’s do that. This has been a long day already and-”

“Kaito.” Byakuya barked. “Sit back down.”

Kaito sat down. Startled. Not sure what he had done wrong.

Marigold sighed. “Don’t look at me like that. Again, I was just showing that I knew. Now that we all know I can do that? And that I am swearing to you both, right now, that I won’t? No one has to think that I’ve got some nefarious plan in the future utilizing that unfortunate little skill against you. It’s not a secret. It works. And I have no intentions to abuse it. Though, Shuichi, darling, you really should be dismissed by this point. None of this has anything to do with you, and I really would hate to stress you out with my husband’s inevitable temper tantrum.”

“I’m fine.” Shuichi grumbled. A dark look in his eyes. Kaito still just looking confused.

A better future than there was today. A good credo to have. 

But intentions didn’t correlate with actions and...damn. Damnit!

Kokichi sighed, rubbing his temple a bit, his shoulders cramping up. Well...she was cool in a lot of ways but...she was still Luminous nobility, he supposed. “It’s a pretty sentiment, what you’ve promised, but I think we all could’ve done without a demonstration, with all respect, your majesty.”

...were all Luminaries just...so casual about this? How did they not feel sick? Like there was an entire swamp in their chest just from even thinking about impeding on someone’s free will like that, let alone as...what? To make a point? As a game?

“...what was the second matter you wanted to discuss, Queen Marigold? Personally, I do hope it can be expressed as a concept.”

“Oh, this next part is much happier! Come, come, I can practically feel the tension in the air now, relax! It was just a small experiment to prove something I had suspected. No harm done!” Queen Marigold said, and while she could have been talking to them, the way her voice grew distant again suggested she was looking at someone behind her, most likely Byakuya. “It’s fine. So grumpy… Prince Kokichi! I’m sure you’ve worked out by now just how awfully different our two cultures are, based on your interactions with Kaito and his escorts. I’m making assumptions, of course, but based on how our interactions with your ambassadors have been going, I bet it’s been...challenging!”

“They aired out a dozen high ranking officials dirty laundry to the world and are now fucking baffled as to why no one wants to cooperate with them…” King Byakuya grumbled, “It was incredible, how quickly they sabotaged themselves. I cannot believe they haven't been replaced yet.”

“Now, now. It was a difference in cultures. And now that we are in alliance, for the sake of that kinder future, we must make more of an effort to understand each other!” Queen Marigold insisted, “So! Prince Kokichi, I’m coming to you about this first, before King Aiichi, as I quite hoped for your blessings, in case the king had any misgivings on the idea! But….oooh, I’m so excited! But I thought, perhaps a wonderful way to ease cultural misunderstandings between us, is to start a project, where we take a group of children, and exchange them for a year. A student exchange program! A group of children we pick will go to school for the next year in your capital, and a group of your children will go to school in ours. We will of course house and feed and assign families to watch over them, and through their socializing with our students, Luminary as a whole gets a little better at understanding Dicea. Oh, what do you think? I do hope you love it! I’m quite smitten with the idea myself!”

Shuichi’s brow furrowed. Not distressed...but more like he was working out a puzzle in his head.

Kokichi now understood why what Miss Kouketsu and Mr. Houdan had done, all those months ago, hadn’t really...done anything in Luminary. In Dicea, anything illegal or unscrupulous was brought up as soon as it was discovered, and as quickly as news traveled, the whole country knew. In the case of illegal acts, the perpetrator was given their trial and dues, and in both cases they would have to put in tangible work to gain the trust back from the public. It was just...how you made sure that people grew from their mistakes and didn’t make the same ones over and over. It made sure that different people wouldn’t be fooled by the same trick. 

It didn’t work that way in Luminary at all, and instead of...really, acknowledging the person who had done the crime in the first place, any public outrage would be more likely to be directed at the person who outed them. 

...it was still baffling to Kokichi, but...it was how it was. 

Greater understanding between the cultures was long overdue, as he and Kaito had found, but…

Kokichi furrowed his brow. ...what would Luminary want with children?

His gut instinct was...shamefully, a frightened no. Sending his people somewhere where they enslaved and brainwashed people, not to mention was in the middle of possibly a civil war with terrorists on the rampage killing whoever they could get their hands on? 

“I agree, having some sort of cultural exchange is quite needed if we are to bridge the gap in our mutual understandings,” Kokichi hummed, voice even. “Unfortunately, the same issues impeding international travel that we discussed before are an issue that I believe would stall the halt of an exchange for a while… However, we currently have programs that provide aid and information towards people who are looking to travel as an area of study, as well as occupationally. I believe working in an exchange program using their existing infrastructure would be a wonderful project to, at the very least, start making plans for.”

“There would be quite a lot of planning to do, but… I truly believe that greater understanding, leading to fewer misunderstandings, would benefit everyone involved. It would be remiss to promise any sort of policy in a social call, but this is an idea I will bring up, rightfully credited, of course. As possibilities unfold for us, we will be sure to send updates to your own administration. It is a cooperative effort, after all.”

Again, not a solid okay. And if Kokichi could help it, they wouldn’t trade anyone younger than a college-age student. And...there would have to be some sort of assurance that, no matter what, the exchange students would not be placed in the indentured program at all…

(Though he hoped it would be dismantled by then. That things would change.)

But...it was an openness to the idea, and a promise to start working around with the pieces they had to see if it could work.

“Oh, of course, of course. We will certainly have to wait for it to be a little safer. Which, hopefully, it will be soon! Those rebel groups especially, lately, have been giving us some trouble… and you know? They keep saying such funny things when our people talk to them, individually.” Queen Marigold mused. “It’s so strange! A name of a person that, as far as all of our informants and spies and interrogators can tell, has literally nothing to do with the rebellion...literally nothing...and yet! Funnily enough. Her name keeps coming up. Like some sort of rallying cry. It’s bizarre. 

“...I’m not worried about that.” King Byakuya sighed, “I told you that wasn’t anything to worry about. They’re trying to distract us with false information.”

“Maybe~” Queen Marigold agreed perkily. “All of our information suggests that’s true. But, why take the risk, when the solution is so simple?”

“But, sorry, that’s me going on a tangent with my husband. Forgive us, we’re new lovebirds, it’s hard not to focus on just each other even when talking to others.” Queen Marigold sighed dreamily, as if she was swooning. “But, absolutely, Prince Kokichi! Wait it out! Think it over, take some time with it! And just know, that whenever you’re ready, we have thirty or so children of various ages, ready to go! They’re all from the same little social program, a lovely little orphanage in the capital called the Sunny Childcare Center-”

Both Kaito and Shuichi stiffened.

“-and I’m sure they’d be so thrilled to go! Oh, it’s such a lovely idea...anyway, I’m glad I got that out there! Now, honestly, I feel like I’ve been talking and talking and talking, I must be boring you all to tears. I do hope that if any of you had anything they wanted to bring up, you’d feel comfortable to do so by now? Though if there’s nothing else, I think my darling husband is dying to get me alone right now, so if there’s nothing else at all...”

Not Kaede. Byakuya obviously knew his cousin was plotting against him. But, if Shuuichi’s theory was right…

He caught how that name affected his partners. 

Kokichi’s eyes widened. 

...they were trying to send Maki’s siblings to Dicea to...what? To what? Think her satisfied and that...she wouldn’t rally the rebel forces and...turn the tide…

The corners of Kokichi’s lips turned up, and it was all he could do to keep from laughing. If they thought that would cool Maki’s flame of liberation, they didn’t know her at all. 

But...how to get the kids without sending Diceans into a warzone…?

He needed to talk to Maki. 

“It’s been a pleasure to speak with you, Queen Marigold, and with King Byakuya as well. I think we’ve all gotten our greetings and curiosities out for the time being, and I’m sure we all have plenty to occupy our minds after this talk,” Kokichi tittered lightly. “Kai-chan, Shuu-chan, anything you guys can think of before we all get back to our days?”

He needed to talk to Maki.

“No. It was a pleasure meeting you, Queen Marigold, and it was nice to speak with you again, King Byakuya. Atua be pleased.” Shuichi said, bowing his head out of pure habit.

“Atua be pleased!” Kaito and Queen Marigold echoed.

“I do hope, Shuichi, that if the time comes, you really will utilize our gifts. I don’t make these offers idly. I am sincere in my desire to claim you. You have always…” King Byakuya paused, “It was a comfort, to know Kaito had your loyalty growing up, and it’s a comfort now. You aren’t who I would have expected, within his little group, to be the one he accidentally knocked up, but of all of his choices, you are one of the ones I can live with.”

“...thank you, King Byakuya.” Shuichi said, knowing that what he said was Byakuya’s version of being sentimental and sincere, but also, woooooow, was this guy bad at being those things.

“Byakuya! It was great to hear from you! And you too, Queen Marigold! I honestly think your marriage will be good for each other, and good for Luminary!” Kaito said earnestly. 

“Thank you so much, Kaito! Oh, it was so nice talking to you again! I forgot what a treat you were!” Queen Marigold said cheerfully. “Prince Kokichi, Shuichi, the same for you too! Please, feel free to reach out to me any time, even if it's just to chat idly. Especially so, actually!”

“Kaito, I’m setting up another appointment for tomorrow. Expect to be in a phone call with me around four in the afternoon.” Byakuya told him. “I want to more thoroughly check in with you, and also discuss your behavior today.”

Kaito twitched, but said, “Yep! Absolutely! Looking forward to it!”

“Prince Kokichi, it was wise to finally speak with you. The next time we speak, it should be one on one, without my wife and Kaito constantly interrupting. Perhaps we could finally get something halfway useful done, then. I know policy is largely your fathers responsibility, right now, but I think there could be value in the future in getting your insights on these projects regardless, if only so we know where we stand with each other. I expect you will agree.”

The hand not holding Shuuichi’s was balled in his lap, but Kokichi just kept his breathing steady, knowing that it would all be done soon. There were still things he couldn’t say but...well. With his partners, he didn’t have to think through every word in the worries that a wrong one would result in people being hurt or mistreated. 

(Even if he wanted to scream at Byakuya. DISCUSS BEHAVIOR?!? WHAT THE FUCK WAS WRONG WITH THIS GUY?!?!?)

“I do agree that learning each others’ stances on policy and projects would prove beneficial for our business relationship, and I would be delighted to partake in such meetings, but as this was not a business meeting, having our loved ones speak their minds in a more conversational matter proves more beneficial for the purposes of a social exchange. That is to say, I have enjoyed our time speaking together today.”

“If you wish to have a business call with me, I will suggest that it would be to the benefit of both our time to know the subject when we contact each other’s operators so that we each may study up and bring relevant materials, and of course I would extend the same courtesy. As you have pointed out, I do not make policy decisions in a private phone call, but it still gets far more done for us each to have researched, substantial answers, rather than to trade assurances that we will look into them for next time.”

...that was still polite enough, right? (It did feel good, though.)

“I hope you two have a wonderful rest of your days!”

“...hm.” Byakuya tsked. “You as well.”

And then the buzzing stopped. 

Kaito waited a moment, making absolutely certain that the phone was hung up on his brothers end, before reaching over to press the button that would stop it on their end. He closed his eyes, and let out a huff of air so strong that it might be safe to say Kaito had been partially holding his breath the entire phone call, before he weakly grinned at his lovers. “Well! I think that went great!”

Kokichi, after giving Shuuichi’s hand a squeeze, got up from his chair and walked over to the wall, right up against the sound dampening foam adhered to it. He took a breath and--

“AAAAAAAAAAAARGGGG!!!!!”

Just straight up screaming at the wall, his hands in tight fists trembling at his sides, Kokichi let out all he’d been keeping in during the call until he started to feel lightheaded. Then, he just covered his face for a few moments, breathing. 

“...do you guys know where Maki-chan is?”

Kaito flinched, whie Shuichi just sighed slightly, lowering his cap as Kokichi let out probably something he really needed to. Kaito was just confused though. He...really had thought that had gone well! Why was his husband upset?

“Um...she was in her room when I left?” Kaito offered, looking in concern at his small husband as he said, “Are you…okay, ‘Kichi?”

“In Marigolds defense, if she really does believe Maki’s a threat, trying to placate her with something she sincerely believes she wants is… not exactly a cruel first step.” Shuichi murmured, his mind whirring, having come to the same conclusions as Kokichi. “Thirty+ kids...that would be all of the capital orphanage. All of them. That’s not a small offer… that’s a lot of revenue they’d lose...they have to know Maki would never allow them to return. Though, having a group of kids given in exchange gives them hostages that would matter to Dicea, which isn’t a small thing either...does Marigold think like that though? Is that the point of asking for an exchange? Maybe just something to ensure Maki won’t act for certain? Insufficient information...”

Kokichi sighed and went back over to Kaito, kissing him on his forehead. “I’m okay… The phone call went better than I hoped, honestly, and I’m really proud of you. No matter what your brother might say, there wasn’t anything you did wrong. Your brother’s just an uppity asshole. I think you’re right in that Marigold’s gonna be good for him.”

She was kinda cool, except for the things that really weren’t. 

Sighing again, Kokichi rubbed at his temple as he opened the door for the phone room, holding it for his partners. “...if it were a perfect world, we would gladly accommodate thirty kids to get them out of a situation like that...but I can’t endanger my citizens, Shuu-chan. Maki-chan knows that too…”

If...there were people who would volunteer (not kids), to make sure to get the kids out of Luminary, and then...have the structure to be safe...or even join the rebellion, though Kokichi couldn’t expect any of his people to want to go into a war that wasn’t even theirs to fight… There was only so far valor could go. 

The slight massage at his temple went to the bridge of his nose, Kokichi’s whole expression pinched inward in frustrated thought. “There’s so many obstacles to plan around…”

Kaito and Shuichi followed Kokichi out, Shuichi trying independently to work out a solution to this...problem? Opportunity? He wasn’t even sure how to think of it yet. Byakuya had been right, for all of Kaede’s drawing her in and suggestions to come to the country, she had yet to even confess the true purpose she needed her for, and Maki had almost nothing to do with the rebel groups, regardless of what the rebellion believed was true or not. So, accusing Maki of anything, or ‘stopping her’, was pointless. She wasn’t doing anything.

But an offer to appease her had been made. An olive branch, to stop something Maki had no power over.

(Kaito, in this moment, proven shockingly right, in something he had told Kokichi not long ago.)

(He and his friends all had reputations much bigger than themselves.)

(And people, in response to those reputations, overcompensated like crazy.)

...they couldn’t ignore literally the safe delivery of all of their siblings to their god damned doorstep.

Kaito frowned, understanding...some of what was happening. He understood Marigold was offering to send them all of Maki’s siblings that hadn’t already been sold off in the program. Great! Good! And he had to accept that this probably had something to do with Kaede asking Maki to murder a bunch of people in Kaede’s way to the throne, which now included Marigold. It made sense Marigold would want to buy Maki’s favor. Even if Maki failed to assassinate everyone, Margold and Byakuya themselves would be the most important targets, and likely would be Maki’s top priority to get done, even if all else failed. 

So, yeah...appeasing Maki was a good move, to save their own lives.

But he didn’t think that there was anything aggressive in the offer. The people sent back wouldn’t be in danger… Luminary and Dicea really did need more culture exchange. It was a good idea, with an additional benefit of keeping an assassin off their back. That was how he saw it, anyway.

“I mean, if we decided to do the exchange, it doesn’t have to be now.” Kaito mused, as they headed upstairs. “Even if the kids are sent in a couple of years, when things are more stable, that’s still great, isn’t it?”

“If the offer is still even open, when things are ‘stable’...” Shuichi murmured. After all. If the rebels were gone in a few years, why bother appeasing Maki?

“We’d get it written down. A contract.” Kaito theorized, “And I don’t think they’d revoke the offer anyway. Byakuya’s not a liar. If he says he’s going to do it, it’ll get done.”

Kokichi took a breath, trying (and mostly) failing, to let go of some of the tension in his body. ...things didn’t have to happen immediately. Even if he’d blindly said yes...traveling between Dicea and Luminary was too dangerous for anyone right now. No matter what they had to wait at least a little while. He didn’t have to rush through this, didn’t have to scrabble to snatch any answer and information he could. They could think this through calmly and find the best answer.

“...even without all this? The veneer is still important,” Kokichi sighed, heading up to Maki’s room. “We need a greater understanding between Dicea and Luminary. No matter what...I think an offer in that realm is going to stay. It’s just this particular offer that’s…”

He shook his head a little. They needed to talk to Maki. They needed to talk to Kaede, but...it was difficult to do that without Byakuya knowing, and with this offer on the table, there was no feigning reaching out to old friends. 

Chewing his bottom lip to shreds, Kokichi knocked curtly on Maki’s door when they got up to the third floor. “Maki-chan, you there?”

There was the small, familiar ‘thwacking’ sound from the other side of the door, suggesting Maki was probably practicing her throws, and as she opened the door, a level of sweat on her skin, wearing a simple tank-top and some loose pants, she looked around at all of them with those intense, red eyes, before sighing. Stepping aside, she held the door open for them all as she said, “I imagine the phone call was interesting?”

Giving Maki a grateful look as he stepped into her room, the expression only lasted for that moment before furrowing back into the stressed contemplation it’d been on the entire walk up. “Despite my efforts to be as boring as possible, they somehow managed to be interesting as all fuck.”

Kokichi leaned against the side of Maki’s bed, pinching his lower lip as he waited for everyone to get settled before he brought up the hot button issue. “...they proposed an exchange. Under the name of a student exchange program, sending Dicean students to live in Luminary while...they’d send thirty of your siblings from your orphanage to Dicea. People in the rebellion are apparently using you as a source of inspiration, and Byakuya and Marigold are...trying to buy you into staying out of it? I think?”

Locking eyes with his friend, there was one thing Kokichi wanted to make clear before anything else. Maki was his friend and...by now? Kokichi liked to think he knew her at least a little. “We’re getting your siblings out of there, Maki-chan. The only question is...figuring out how to do it without painting you into a corner, or just putting more people in their place. I cannot do that to my people. But I refuse to abandon yours either.”

…

Maki stared at Kokichi, listening quietly. 

She wasn’t impassive. Her eyes widened when Kokichi told her that they were offering her siblings. The ones that had still been in the orphanage when she left… but that surprise muted into something blank. Looking Kokichi over.

...after a moment, she looked over to Shuichi, who was standing by the wall, watching her fretfully. Maki blinked at him, before going to her desk and taking out the chair, taking it to the corner and telling Shuichi, “Sit.” as she looked him over. Appraising him.

Shuichi sighed and nodded, sitting down. Maki then looked over at Kaito, who was sitting on the bed, next to where Kokichi was leaning, and she looked him over as well. Then Kokichi again.

Hm.

“No one move around. You all know the rules when it comes to knife throwing. Ricochet is always an issue, even if I’m throwing.” Maki told them, positioning herself back to the wooden boards.

Kaito frowned at her. “Maki, Kokichi just said-”

“I know. I’m thinking.” Maki told him, before throwing one of her blades. It flew across the room, before landing, impeded, into the wooden plank hanging on the other side, a crude drawing of a silhouetted man on it. The knife landed in his stomach.

“...” Maki thought. Pulling back another blade. Letting it fly. “...I’m not in contact with anyone in the rebellion.”

“Maki, we...we don’t know for certain.” Shuichi said, “But we’ve had a theory for awhile that Kaede’s been using your name as a recruiting tool. It’s...it’s mostly speculation. But this offer is honestly the biggest clue to support that theory we’ve had. You might not be a part of the rebellion, but...the rebellion might not know that…”

“... I don’t like to think that Kaede’s been...using me to…” Maki scowled, “If that’s even possibly true, that would mean she’s using my name to unite people I’ve been connected to, right? Our grown siblings? Indentureds we’ve helped… people who should be keeping their heads down...it’s too dangerous for them to organize. They’re the people most at risk if even anyone even suspects them...they could be executed with no proof, no trial, no warning even...I don’t like to think that Kaede would…”

Maki grit her teeth, and flicked her wrist, another blade imbedding into the planks. She glared at the silhouetted man. Finding calm in the familiar practice, she said, “I’m not going to believe it till I confirm it with her, but I will accept that Byakuya believes it and is acting on that belief. Fine. You said it was an exchange, Kokichi? What did they want back?”

Kokichi had almost expected Maki to leap into action when he told her, but instead… He hadn’t...remembered that they’d never talked to Maki about Shuuichi’s theory. And it still just was a theory. Byakuya and Marigold had said that it was speculation too. But if they believed enough in it to make the offer...then that was reality. 

Crossing his arms around his chest, Kokichi held himself tightly. “Diceans. Kids, Marigold implied, though she only said students, so if we ever did have an exchange that was truly just for cultural understanding, I’d only bring it up with university students.”

It made him feel bad that he was only thinking of it now, but even if it was just a cultural exchange...he worried about Luminous kids coming to Dicea. Maybe it would be okay, since he’d never heard of anyone coming after Tim for being Luminous, but...there were still a loud amount of people who hated their neighbor. 

But, still. Maybe being snubbed by a few assholes was worth getting out of slavery. 

“I just...have a hard time believing that everything would go smoothly,” Kokichi quietly confessed, looking over to Shuuichi in worry. “We can argue and set every kind of stipulation and precaution to protect whomever would go over but…”accidents”,” he lowered his voice for heavy emphasis, “-happen. I know Byakuya wouldn’t want to start another war with Luminary, which our people going missing absolutely would but…”

He rubbed the bridge of his nose, half convincing himself just in that moment. “...would they really be okay sending over thirty people just...I don’t even know? I don’t know what they think Maki-chan would do that this would buy her out of. I don’t know what they’re trying to get, and I’d love to think this was just some way of getting kids out of the program but everything I do know...says that isn’t the case.”

Kokichi covered his face and pulled at his bangs. They had time to figure this out but…

...it had been a really stressful conversation, okay? He didn’t think he’d said anything that would give consequences to people he loved or the people they loved, but he didn’t know?! Luminary etiquette didn’t make any sense to him, and Byakuya was one of the most explosive people he’d ever met. There were too many pitfalls he couldn’t see and Kokichi was walking on through anyway and it was just really stressful, OKAY???

“...”

Maki let another dagger fly. As it hit the man's shoulders, she murmured, “Student exchange program… university students. Thirty children in exchange for university students. Thirty university students? Maybe not a one for one exchange. Probably not, actually… university students. Thirty kids. All to…”

Maki threw another dagger. “...stop me from doing...something. But the exchange isn’t about that. The offer was made… well, it’s thirty kids. All my little siblings. It’d certainly...make it difficult for me to leave…”

Maki watched the dagger lodge into the silhouettes head. She observed that curiously. 

“...university students…” she smiled. Small and simple. “...anyone can go to university here…”

...she had to...talk to Kaede…

...and she had to talk to Hina.

Turning to Kokichi, she bowed her head respectfully to him. “Thank you for this information. Kokichi, I’d ask you to sit on this for now. Don’t say no, but don’t say yes either. I need to gather some information myself. Shuichi, I may ask for your help in some of my research.”

“Of course, Maki.” Shuichi said.

“Kaito? I may need your help getting into contact with Kaede. I imagine it’s more difficult now. I’m trusting you to work a way around it.” Maki said to Kaito.

Kaito sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah, alright...you mean without Byakuya knowing, right? Sure, I’ll figure something out, but...but you and I have to talk, Maki. I want your siblings here too, but if you’re conspiring with Kaede again, I want to establish some boundaries…”

“Sure.” Maki said. “We’ll talk.”

Maki walked up to Kokichi. Looking down at him, she placed her hands on his shoulders. Squeezed them reassuringly. “Thank you.” She said. “I know this is probably bothering you. I understand how you’re feeling right now. Like the weight of it will crush you. How you want it all done now, even though it feels impossible to get it done at all. I understand… and you will be able to help. I think. I will ask you for your help. But Kokichi?”

Maki gave Kokichi a patient look. Something almost… amused in it. 

“I’m not asking you to figure this out yourself. I’m asking you to have some faith in me while I work this out myself. Which I will do. Just give me time, and when I am ready to ask for your support, don’t try to take the responsibility from me onto yourself. That’s not what I’m asking for.”

“...okay?” She asked gently.

Kokichi nodded slightly. “S’already at that point. They know instituting a program like this would take time, and I said that I’d bring it up with people, but no promises. They’ll probably want updates but...that’ll come when it comes.”

There was something...comforting in seeing Maki start to put together her own plans. And she had the freedom to do so much more than what he could… Things that wouldn’t be a national act of aggression, or seen as supporting the rebellion, which while he did personally, would break the treaty if he acted upon it. She could plan things he had no safe capacity to work on. 

...and she knew Luminary. Knew Byakuya. Knew Kaede, and would have an idea of how the rebellion would even be working. 

When Maki returned to him and squeezed his shoulders, Kokichi let out a breath, his eyes burning a little as far more of the tension he’d been holding during the call left than any of his other attempts succeeded in. 

This was Maki’s fight and her story. He just needed to be ready to support her when she asked for it. 

Kokichi nodded again before letting go of another breath, dropping his head onto Maki’s shoulder. “I’ll do my best to do whatever you need from me, Maki-chan. When it comes to mundane logistics...I’d like to think I’m pretty good at those,” he huffed in a soft laugh. 

Picking his head up, Kokichi ran a hand through his hair, smoothing it back out of his face, and while he looked less stressed than before, there was a certain air of exhaustion around him. “...I think I’m gonna take a long bath tonight.”

-

After that, Maki politely, but pointedly, asked her friends to leave, needing some space to think through everything that had just been told to her, and the men had given her that space. Closing the door to more heavy thwunk sounds as Maki continued practicing, Kaito, Kokichi and Shuichi headed back to their room.

It wasn’t the end of the day, but there was definitely a feeling of the three settling in, the lovers starting to relax a little after a stressful day of waiting on an even more stressful phone call. Kaito was the first to shake it off, encouraging Kokichi to take his bath, and then pouncing on his boyfriend, who had made the mistake of laying down on the bed, trying to ease some of the tension that had collected in his back.

“Kaito, get off. Your heavy.” Shuichi grumbled, as Kaito crawled half on top of him, legs intertwined and magenta eyes bright and playful as Kaito leaned down to kiss at Shuichi’s cheek and ears, shifting his hat from over his face. “Kaito…”

“Yes, Lord Shuichi?” Kaito murmured, kissing at his neck. “Did you need something?”

Shuichi’s brow furrowed, confused for a second...before he said uncomfortably, “I...that’s not….”

“Lord Shuichi Saihara, of the Momota crest…” Kaito sighed into Shuichi’s skin, grinning against him, looking endlessly pleased as he said, “Royal Surrogate of the Ouma family, and a lord of the house of Momota, sanctioned bearer of Second Momota Son’s first natural born child…”

...there was a more official word than ‘sanctioned bearer’. 

But Kaito wasn’t about to call Shuichi his concubine.

Even if that was essentially what Byakuya had meant, ‘legally’ acknowledging Shuichi outside of marriage.

Kaito didn’t think there was anything really wrong with the title itself. He just….was more worried that it would make Shuichi feel weird. Was certain it’d upset Kokichi. Concubines were essentially… owned, in a way. Especially way back in the day, before a bunch of people had worked very hard to make their status more official and financially independent. But… he didn’t want Shuichi to feel owned. 

He wanted Shuichi to feel claimed. And loved. And important. 

Because he was all of those things.

“My Lord Shuichi.” Kaito gushed, while Shuichi just sort of stared worriedly at the ceiling. 

The bath salts were in, the bubble soap, and, once he was doubly sure the door was closed and Kaito and Shuuichi were doing their own things, Kokichi brought the new bottle of massage oil closer to the bathtub. It wasn’t bad, or something he felt guilty over but...well, if Kaito saw him using the oil, then he’d probably suggest a massage, and while Kokichi always loved them...he didn’t want Kaito to feel obliged. Didn’t want to give his husband more things to ignore. 

Kokichi sank beneath the bubbles with a sigh, the water so warm it was a little hot, but not bad. Just warm enough that the water wouldn’t cool before he felt like getting out. 

...he understood why his friends were so on edge all the time a little better now. Sure, there were times with less stakes, but when there were any? And it not just being Byakuya, but any number of people who would hurt everyone you loved just...cause they were feeling a little butthurt? Because they weren’t in love with what you said? It was enough to give anyone a perpetual ulcer. 

The business talks would still probably be alright, and while they would still have to call every now and again…

...ugh… He’d live.

Taking up some of the massage oil, Kokichi tried to rub out the tension in his neck and shoulders, knowing that it’d just give him a headache if he left it. 

“Kaito… I don’t think I like that…”

Kaito paused, looking up from Shuichi’s collarbone, “...me kissing here, or-?”

“Being called a Lord.”

“...why not?”

“I don’t know.” Shuichi said tensely, idly playing with some of Kaito’s hair. “...I know you’re saying it because it’s...maybe a thing that’s...kind of true. But it feels like you’re making fun of me.”

“I’m not.”

“I know. But it sounds fake. It’s not really a thing that’s happened. I feel like I’m playing some pathetic game of wish-fulfilment even just thinking it. I don’t like it…”

Kaito sighed, laying his head on Shuichi’s chest. “...okay. I won’t call you that. But you should know, I think it’s sexy as fuck.”

“You think everything is sexy.”

“Not true! Onesies are adorable.”

“Fine. Everything is either sexy or cute for you. Does that work?”

“No.” Kaito murmured. “Because that’s not true either.”

Shuichi stared at the ceiling. Running his hands through Kaito’s hair. Feeling his familiar weight on his body. 

“Yeah.” He said after a moment. “Yeah, I know. I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright.” Kaito said, before shifting his body, laying next to him as he said excitedly to the ex-detective. “I think for the first meeting, that went really well! I think Byakuya liked Kokichi!”

“...I don’t think Kokichi liked Byakuya.” Shuichi observed.

“I will work on that!” Kaito laughed, only looking a little stressed.

It wasn’t that long before Kokichi’s hands got tired so...he just hoped having the oil on his skin would help out some. So he just laid in the tub, resting his head back in that little divot in the head of the bathtub and just holding his hands over his heart, not...thinking of anything. 

Not allowing himself to think of anything. 

He cannot fall apart every time something even mildly stressful happens. No one would ever believe in him, would believe he was capable of being a good leader if someone was just...snippy, or gave bad news, and he had to go and hide and deal with days of sickness afterward. 

He couldn’t do that. 

So Kokichi was just relaxing in very warm water, clenching his eyes shut and trying not to grind his teeth anymore. 

And...in some ways? It wasn’t a big deal? He had handed Maki information for her own plans, and he didn’t have to think about it until she asked him to play his part. The offer to send people to help restore the farmlands was unequivocally a good thing! And even if it was a benefit for both nations, Kokichi was genuinely touched by the offer. And even with that good thing, all Kokichi had to do for it was to talk about it with the admins, mostly because he was just curious what they thought about it. No required action. 

Travel to Luminary in any way was put on hold. No one had requested another phone call any time soon, except for Byakuya demanding it of Kaito and...there was nothing Kokichi could do about that. 

So why did it feel like he was just putting things off, barely holding himself together? 

With a groan, Kokichi sunk down in the water, just leaving his nose right above the bubbles.

“Come ooooon. It’ll be nice! I’ll make it feel good.”

“No.”

“Why not Q_Q??”

“Because I don’t feel like sucking yours.”

“I don’t need you to take care of me. I just want to do it to you.”

“What? Why?”

“Because I like it.”

“No. It’s weird if I don’t do it back, and I don’t feel like it.”

“Let me love you.”

“Kaito, I am this close to kicking you literally off this bed.”

“Q_Q”

“Go make that face at Kokichi.”

“Kokichi’s taking a bath.”

“Great. He’s already halfway there. Go bother him and let me get my head on straight.”

“....kay.” Kaito sighed, before kissing Shuchi’s neck a little, his voice lowering, sultry as he said, “Are you sure-” 

“Go.”

Kaito got up, heading to the bathroom, quickly knocking on it. “‘Kichi? Can I sit with you a bit? Shuichi needs a break from me.”

Kokichi cracked an eye open, looking over at the door before glancing down at the massage oil, but...whatever… He didn’t think he would be very nice company, but if Kaito just wanted to sit together for a bit, they could let Shuuichi get a chance to sort through everything. 

Sitting up a little, Kokichi leaned onto his side to rest his head on the side of the tub, getting in a better talking position. If Kaito wanted to talk to him. “Sure, thing, hun--come on in.”

Kait took a step in, and was quick to close the door behind him, trying to keep the hot air trapped inside. It smelled nice in here. Mmmm…

Awww. There was his husband among the bubbles. Cute.

The stress lines under his eyes were less cute.

Kaito headed over, sitting against the side of the ceramic tub, laying his arm against the ledge as he grinned at Kokichi. “Hey, babe.”

“Hey.” Kokichi returned a smile, though it was smaller than what he usually gave Kaito. He just...couldn’t muster up anything brighter right then. Even so, he slid over the side of the tub edge to press his nose against Kaito’s for a moment before relaxing back into an angle that was more comfortable. 

“Did you wanna join, or just happy sitting with me? Gotta say, brings back a nice memory, us in these positions.” Not everything they had talked about then had been nice but...altogether, it had been a nice moment. A time of making things work with his husband, even if they’d still been so ignorant to so much about each other.

“Ah, I’m alright where I am. Don’t really feel like getting wet right now.” Kaito admitted, though he did let his fingers rest in the water, thinking back. “Oh yeah… one of the first real conversations we ever had… ooooh, my poor Kokichi. Your dick was on fire that day.” Kaito groaned, shaking his head. “You had to get real used to me, reaaaaal quick.”

Kokichi snorted softly, playing with the bubbles where they met the surface of the water. “It’s easy to get used to. When it’s ‘wet the bed’ or ‘have someone close to you see your dick’? I’m no nudist, but it’s just a body. And Kai-chan bumped his standings by a whole lot, suggesting something that really did help the pain.”

It wouldn’t thrill Kaito to hear, he knew. But letting healers do what they needed, letting his babysitters carry him place to place, maneuvering his body...you got used to it. In some ways, Kaito doing the same just gave Kokichi some consistency in who was doing it. 

And, well, it helped now that he trusted Kaito. 

With a sigh, Kokichi slouched down to cover his shoulders in the water again, the room now steamy and warm, but still not quite as warm as the water in comparison. 

“...hey, was I alright in the meeting? I know I have a long way to go in understanding what’s polite in Luminary…”

“Are you kidding!? I was so proud of you!” Kaito said, eyes widening, enthusiasm radiating off of him as he said, “You were so polished and put together! Everything you said was so smart and well thought out! It was so impressive, ‘Kichi! I really think you left a great impression!”

“Byakuya even wanted to talk policy with you, by the end! That means he thinks you’d have something worth hearing. That’s a great sign. That’s a really, really good sign.” Kaito said,that last bit partly to himself, confessing, “I was a little worried, if I’m honest. For a second there. You and my brother haven’t had the easiest correspondence so far. A lot of that was my fault… but I knew if you guys could just talk directly to each other! You’d get that worked out! I was so relieved.” Kaito sighed.

Kokichi smiled a little brighter, his star never failing to make things feel lighter. He had hoped Shuuichi would have a little more faith than thinking he’d...do everything they’d talked about before the call, but...he had been worried too, honestly. About, even if he didn’t let himself lose his temper, that he’d just...say something that was normal to him, but some huge grievance in Luminary. 

So it was still reassuring to hear that he hadn’t. 

(A small, vindictive part of him was sour that while he had managed to steer away from touchy spots, that Byakuya--and Marigold, for a second there--could just barrel through all the pain he wanted. Cause what was Kokichi gonna do? He didn’t care if he hurt people, and there wasn’t any sort of consequence Kokichi could inflict on him that would matter. That wouldn’t just be hurting Kokichi as well.)

Sighing, Kokichi reached out and cupped Kaito’s cheek, getting a few suds on him. “Sweets, you didn’t bung up anything between us. You weren’t the one writing to your brother and passing on suuuuper untrue, icky shit, right? So none of it was your fault.”

...and...even if he knew this would hurt Kaito some…

...they’d promised to be honest.

“Really...my opinion of Byakuya now is formed by his own words and actions. Nothing to do with anything else. And...I really don’t like him. He’s an asshole of the worst kind. But,” Kokichi stressed, keeping his gaze on Kaito. “Even if I think he’s a bad person, he has the skills to be a good leader. He’s putting in the research and action to try and make things better for Luminary, and I respect that. That’s why I want to have those business calls with him. But, personally...all I can be is polite, because I love you, and you love him.”

Kaito brow furrowed at that, but… he just listened quietly. Though… once Kokichi was done, Kaito making small circles in the water with his fingers.

“...he's just trying to take care of me…” he murmured.

And you think all Luminaries are bad, he didn’t say.

(That wasn't even fair of him to think.)

(Kokichi had never said that.)

(It was Kaito’s fault that that was an idea he couldn’t get out of his head anymore.)

And he’s horrible at it, Kokichi didn’t say. Maybe one day, when the rage couldn’t be contained anymore, but not today, when Shuuichi had already “kicked” Kaito out, and Kokichi couldn’t force Kaito to flee into his shrine. 

So instead, he sighed. “I know. It’s a good intent, at least. Caring about the people you love, trying to make sure they’ll be alright. It doesn’t stem from a place of malice in the slightest.”

“...but it’s not just about you anymore, Kai-chan.” There were some things Kokichi wasn’t going to say today but...he couldn’t keep everything in. Not right now. Not when his chest ached and his shoulders were hurting and he just felt...useless. “On his own merits, actually nothing to do with you...I don’t like him. And I know it’s different for you guys but...I’ve grown up believing that how you personally feel about someone is only half the story. He’s someone you love, so I’ll respect that in personal time. He’s Luminary’s king, and one that genuinely is trying to do better by his people, so I’ll respect that in matters of business. But my feelings are my own, and I’m not going to pretend to like someone when...that really doesn’t matter at all in how our interactions will go.”

“...I know it’s not what you were hoping. And for that, I am sorry.”

Kaito frowned, only… a little hurt by Kokichi saying it wasn’t about him. Kaito knew it wasn’t. He wasn’t so much of a child that he needed to be the center of the world, even to Kokichi. 

Honestly, it mainly hurt because it brought him back to the memorial garden. That crushing, aching realization that… his fear and grief wasn’t going to be enough to stop his friends… that he wasn’t enough… that he was a sacrifice they were willing to make…

...his stomach still twisted when he thought about that. He closed his eyes. He just had to be...vigilant. He had to stay on top of it. His family was willing to hurt him for their own goals. Okay. That was fine.That was just how family was sometimes. That just meant...that just meant he had to make certain they weren’t in positions where they felt like they had too. 

He couldn’t...he couldn’t mess up again.

(His parents had fucking died because his feelings weren’t enough.)

(...so had his friends…)

(He had to save his brother.) 

(He had to save Maki, for that matter.)

(Maki was willing to kill Byakuya, she had already confessed that. Was actively hoping for it. Okay. And Byakuya… his brother knew how important Maki was to Kaito. But Kaito wasn’t entirely stupid. He knew if Byakuya felt threatened, he’d kill Maki.)

(Kaito just had to… either keep them apart, or find some way to make it not worth it to either of them. And Since Maki was the one who was actually, actively trying to get to Byakuya, she had to be his focus for now.)

(He had to save them both somehow…)

Kaito blinked. He had gotten lost in his head. Shaking it, he said, “Sorry, sorry. I didn’t mean to go quiet on you. I was just thinking about stuff… it’s okay, Kokichi. You don’t...have to like Byakuya. I just think he’s a better person than you give him credit for. He’s… he’s really protective. And he takes care of me, but he also takes care of everyone he cares about. Kaede’s still alive, though I have to think he knows… Maki and Shuichi were both sent to Dicea largely because I asked him for help, and now he’s doing everything he can for Shuichi…” Kaito swallowed, “...my parents were...bad for Luminary…” 

Kokichi frowned, feeling his stomach drop out, feeling...hurt. 

But...he didn’t know why? Kaito hadn’t said anything, and, really...what Kokichi had said was the more hurtful of what they were talking about. So why did it feel…

Sighing softly, Kokichi nodded, managing a soft smile. “And I’m glad that, to you, he’s a better person than I give him credit for. That you can take solace in that. Maybe my opinion will change in time, maybe as we all grow--and I’d really hope so. If you have a static opinion, it’s kinda scary, when you factor in everything that has changed. But I’m happy that he’s someone you can rely on.”

Even if taking care...didn’t translate into Kokichi’s idea of care. Going through with the inaction of not killing someone. Admittedly, helping Maki and Shuuichi out of slavery was something he was thankful to Byakuya for but...until the entire system was demolished, it was too little. A type of favoritism that would make Diceans recoil, though...in Luminary, it was pretty noble. Helping Shuuichi was more helping Kaito but...well. Kokichi didn’t begrudge Byakuya for any of that. 

His and Kaito’s parents, however… 

Kokichi had a good feeling there wasn’t any care there, except for the care for...well, how Byakuya had acted the entire call. Like he was the only real person there, who could do everything on his own, and nothing outside of that mattered. 

Kokichi shuffled over again, pressing his nose to Kaito’s arm. “...but they were still people. I’ll say it a thousand times, Kai-chan. They didn’t deserve that.”

“...yeah, I know.” Kaito murmured, closing his eyes again. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have...even brought that up. I don’t even know what I was…trying to say…”

Kaito suddenly looked really tired as he laid his head against his own elbow. “Sorry. I’m sorry. You’re not doing anything wrong by not liking my brother. I don’t even know why I’m trying to argue that away. You still did really well during the phone call, and I’m really happy you were willing to talk to him.”

Kaito’s face suddenly lit up, as he looked up at Kokichi, “Did you really mean it about the winter thing?”

“Course…”

It wasn’t like Kokichi could avoid talking to Byakuya forever. 

It took Kokichi a moment to realize what Kaito meant about ‘the winter thing’ before he was suddenly hit with the reminder of...likely something they really needed to talk about. Nodding adamantly, Kokichi pressed a light kiss to Kaito’s arm, before just looking at him fondly. “Absolutely. Really...the only reason why I wouldn’t want you traveling right now is why I don’t want any of us traveling. It’s not safe.”

“But when it is?” Kokichi propped himself up out of the water a little more, suds running down his shoulders and upper back as he kissed Kaito’s cheek. “Any time you wanna go visit Luminary? Go for it. And I wasn’t just talking politics when I talked about how I wanna see Luminary for myself some day. As much as I could, I’d wanna go on the trip with you.”

Though, with a little sigh he amended, “But if you wanted to go over and spend the whole winter over there...that’s the kind of trip I’d only be able to accompany you for a little while. I know I could get away with it if we prepared beforehand...but I dunno if I have it in me to be away from work for that long.” Kokichi huffed, rolling his eyes at himself. “But maybe it’d be good for you to be able to enjoy your home without me bein’ a touristy buzzkill all the time. So if you wanna spend the whole winter every year in Luminary? Hell yeah, do it. If you wanna go on random trips throughout the year? I’d only protest if you hadn’t done your research in making sure you’d get there safely, but that’s kind of a fantasy ‘cause we both know Maki-chan would never let that happen.”

Kokichi gave his husband a soft look, edging into worry. “...you’re not trapped here. I’ll admit I like being home, and I love being together with you, but...you can go wherever you want, Kai-chan. If it’d make you happy, then I’ll support it. You don’t have to wait for us all to plan a big family vacation to get out of the city.” He’d thought Kaito had known that, but...well. That’s why communicating was so important for them.

Kaito’s eyes widened further in surprise, nodding along with Kokichi as he talked, only adding in a little, “Huh…” at the end.

“...I kinda thought you wouldn’t want me to go to Luminary.” Kaito confessed, scratching at his cheek a little, a little soapy from how Kokichi kept pressing himself against pieces of him. “I mean… I guess that was just an idea I had in my head when I was coming down that I never really examined.” Kaito realized, thinking about it, “I mean. Dicea and Luminary were enemies, like, five seconds ago, and...me being sent here kinda… was part of stopping that.”

“So...I guess I just thought it would… I don’t know. I thought it’d be rare for me to go back…” Kaito shrugged a little, “I guess I thought people would believe I wouldn’t come back. So I wouldn’t be allowed to go.”

Kokichi shook his head, Kaito’s reasoning better than he’d feared, but still something under what he had prepared to hear. “Even in our more unique circumstances...Luminary is your home, and it’s right next door. It would be wrong to ask you to never or rarely go back. Especially right when we got married, it was important to...you know. Get along, so we could be a symbol of our countries’ cooperation. A model for others to follow.”

...and even with them genuinely loving each other…

...it was still a work in progress, he supposed. (Even if his heart ached, a knot of fear in his stomach that was still there even after a month…)

“But we’re not expected to be joined at the hip,” he sighed. “It’s too dangerous right now, but...when it is safe to travel across the border? Hey, maybe you going back and forth would inspire more people to travel. And if people think you wouldn’t come back? Fuck ‘em. Prove them wrong time and time again. And...people will come around.”

Despite his lighter tone, something dropped in Kokichi’s expression, something afraid and vulnerable and...hurt. “...it’s only been a few months. They’ll come around eventually…”

Kaito watched Kokichi’s face. He liked staring at Kokichi, and it was useful when Kokichi talked, because then Kaito had every excuse in the world to just openly stare at him. His husband was so beautiful… even when he was a little sad, though Kaito’s stomach tightened at the sight of it. There were situations where Kaito would have liked to have seen Kokichi’s sad face. Like… if his husband had just been moved by some passage in a book, or was wrapped up in some act of a play or…

...he just didn’t like to see his husband sad, talking about a people Kaito  knew Kokichi was devoted to…

Kaito reached out and poked Kokichi’s head.

Grinning, he said, “Everyone was really nice, at the festival. To all of us. Ya know?” he pointed out, before reaching over and running his fingers through Kokichi’s hair, snickering as he made pieces of it stand up. “And, ya know, Timothy’s been doing well in school...I mean, he has some issues with some of the kids, but as far as he’s told me, that’s more about normal school stuff and less anything to do with him being a Luminary.”

“And, like...the Brockman’s were crazy, Kokichi. And Itch and Tom were Luminaries, so they shouldn’t even count...and, like, honestly, other than those two big ones?” Kaito wasn’t going to bring up Hideki, “No ones really...your people aren’t unkind to Luminaries… not that I’ve seen. A few whispers and suspicious glances doesn’t count as being unkind. That’s just people. People are allowed to be nervous.” Kaito shrugged, “But otherwise, I think...I think your people are doing you proud…following the Ouma example!”

...the festival had been amazing. A dream come true. And while there were a few hiccups here and there, they hadn’t been anything that would ruin the day for anyone, and, by far, it had been a great time. 

And he knew, at least in the capital, most people were fine. A little nervous at times but...for the most part, not really thinking about Luminary. Not thinking about the Luminous-Dicean citizens that lived there. And coming face to face, they just...acted like people. 

There were some others, though. Using Luminary as an insult, like that driver at the festival. Distrusting, like Cali’s mom. The snippets he heard occasionally, the phrase, ‘go back where they came from’ thrown around. Those were the sorts of things he hoped would be eased away with time. 

...but it still hurt to hear that sort of prejudice in his people’s voices. 

Still, Kokichi took a breath and brought a small smile back, nodding a little until his neck cramped and he had to stop. “I just worry...but you’re right. Most people are doin’ alright. I know better than to include outliers in judging big trends.”

“Yeah! Statistical anomalies that disrupt the graph and should not be counted!” Kaito said cheerfully, though...he noted the way Kokichi winced a little, rolling his shoulder and tilting his head, as if he could pull a tightened muscle and smooth it out like that…

His gaze went to the massage oil on the side of the bath. He hadn’t been super worried about it. Sometimes it was just nice to put soothing things on yourself, and Kaito had assumed that was what Kokichi was doing. But if his husband was aching…

Kaito smiled softly at Kokochi, before he said, “Hey, turn your back to me. Like, lean on my side. You have a knot, right? Let me make you feel good…” Kaito pouted, “Since Shuichi so cruelly denied me.”

Kokichi just looked at Kaito for a moment before complying, turning around in the bath and sitting back against the side of the tub. “I knew this would happen if you saw I brought the oil out… Don’t want ya to feel obligated, but if this is something Kai-chan wants, then I’m not gonna complain.”

“Unless you were hoping for a happy ending afterward?” he teased, looking over his shoulder slightly before snickering. “Then...we’ll have to see.”

“...so, did Shuu-chan turn down a massage earlier, or something else? I can imagine there’s a lot he wants to think about…”

Kaito raised an eyebrow at the idea that helping Kokichi out of his little aches and pains was an obligation worth worrying about, but felt better when Kokichi turned, letting Kaito do as he pleased. Grinning, Kaito gently put his hands on Kokichi’s neck, before putting small, warm kisses on the back, tasting soap and feeling the wet of Kokichi’s hair against his face, before letting go, grabbing the massage oil and putting it between his hands, rubbing them out.

“Why is making my lovers feel good some weird, like… burden in their eyes?” Kaito said aloud, as if speaking to himself. Tsking, he started by rubbing his thumb at the top of Kokichi’s spine, small, little circle, before placing both hands on each shoulder, and working the oil on and up, to the most top part of Kokcihi’s neck.

As he worked, he said, “Sometimes, Kai-Chan likes to press at tight little muscles . Sometimes, Kai-Chan likes to swallow cum. Just a little bit of cum! But noooo, Shuichi’s gotta make it weird...he can think about his stuff all he wants. I just wanted to suck a little dick. But nooooo.” Kaito huffed, “Selfish. I’m his boyfriend. I should be allowed to suck his dick whenever I’m feeling peckish.”

Kokichi sighed softly, but not like his sighs before. A sigh of relaxation and...relief, honestly. Even with just Kaito rubbing the oil into his skin...by now, it was just a sign that his aches and pains were on their way out. Kaito really was too good to him…

Kokichi snorted. “If you wanted to suck a little dick, then you shouldn’t have gone to Shuu-chan. First mistake! The Beast is anything but little.”

“...it’s… I mean.” Another sigh, but of the first kind. “We know it’s something you want to do. That the satisfaction of doing something nice for us is its own reward for you. But you’re still expending time and energy and the skills you’ve built up to this point… And when we’re not feeling up to doing something back...it feels lopsided, you know? Like someone got you a really nice present out of the blue, but you can’t go get something for them for whatever reason, and you feel bad for not...appreciating them more than thankfulness.”

“...if that makes any sense at all.” Kokichi groaned softly as Kaito started to get to work on his shoulders, warming up the muscle and loosening all the areas around the clump of stress that had found its way into the back of his neck.

Kato rolled his eyes, digging his thumbs deeply into the curves of Kokichi’s muscle, grinning in satisfaction as occasionally he heard little popping sounds from his neck. Nice… before saying, “I think you’re giving me too much credit babe, if you think me wanting to touch you guys and give you blowjobs and hear those cute little noises and breaths of air come out of you is me being altruistic. Altruistic? Is that the right word?” Kaito frowned, brow furrowing.

“Anyway, yeah, it’s not. I do that stuff because it turns me on, and I like being turned on. Making you feel good makes me feel good. And after I’m all good and warmed up, well, my right hand is just as good at touching me as it is you two. You being happy gets me all…” Kaito leaned in, talking lowly into the back of Kokichi’s ear, “...riled up and eager to please myself...which I do. With satisfaction.”

But Kaito leaned back, sighing as he said, “So, yeah, I’m chasing my own little high, making you two happy. Sue me. It’s one of the ways I get my kicks.I’ve always been like that. I…”

...Kaito paused. 

He didn’t stop massaging Kokichi. He had just come across a thought that made him a little uncomfortable. He had been going to say he was born like that, but…

He didn’t really know if that was true. 

...Byakuya had made the training sessions stop specifically because that wasn’t true.

He wondered if he’d ever tell Kokichi about that. Maybe he’d feel better about Byakuya if he did, or… maybe Kokichi would say his brother hadn’t done enough, once he realized what was happening to  Kaito. What Tengan had been setting Kaito up to be. He hadn’t told Togami. The only person he had ever come close to really telling was Kore, and in the end, he had been… a little afraid Kore would enjoy the story too much. Make him repeat it...He had needed to talk to someone about the orgy incident. He’d always be grateful that Kore had let Kaito safely spill his guts about all of that. He really had helped him work through it.

But Kore had wanted Kaito to describe what had happened in...just.  A lot of detail. Often.

It had been uncomfortable, sometimes.

...Kokichi didn’t need to know about the Tengan stuff. No one needed to know about it. Kaito was okay. He didn’t need to talk about it. Definitely not to Miss Crystal. It wasn’t a part of his anger problems. It wasn’t a part of anything.

Kaito leaned in to kiss the back of Kokichi’s head. “Anyway, I’m mostly just teasing. Of course it’s not a big deal when you guys aren’t up to it. I can take care of myself whenever I want too, regardless of anything. I’m just mostly trying to be funny babe. I’m hilarious, right? Come onnnn, boost my ego, tell me I’m funny. And handsome. Kaito Ouma Momota, you’re sooo funny and handsome and strong.” Kaito said, trying to mimic Kokichi’s voice.

Kokichi raised a bit of an eyebrow. He knew that Kaito did get turned on but...for that to be the driving reason? He hadn’t known. ...just another difference, he supposed. Enjoying being turned on all the time, going out of your way to pursue it...and unlike what the pollen did to people, it was just how Kaito was. It could make him overeager at times, but it ended up being more endearing than anything most of the time, and being turned on never seemed to frustrate Kaito. 

Kokichi let out one of those little sounds Kaito loved right then and there, a muscle twinging under Kaito’s pressure, forced to unlock and relax. And when he spoke, Kokichi’s voice was more relaxed. “Still...even if you like it doing it yourself enough, doesn’t it feel better when we’re pleasing you back? Even if you’re not expecting anything back...nngm. Seeing you get riled up makes it feel like I should be offering something back...helping you out. But...mm. Guess it’s just...something to get used to.”

Rolling his eyes a little before he melted back against Kaito’s hands, Kokichi supposed there were other ways to indulge his husband. “Kai-chan has a good sense of humor...he always knows just how to lighten a mood… And to get worrywarts like me out of their heads.”

“Kai-chan is so beautiful too. While it gets old fast these - uung! - days, snow always seems so magical at first and...I can’t wait to see you in it. Kai-chan is gonna look right out of a fairytale, I know it. And while it’s no feat to pick me up...Kai-chan can move both me and Shuu-chan at the same time sometimes, and that’s super impressive… ...aaah...right there, please…”

Kaito grinned, the gesture becoming more and more teeth, looking adoringly down at Kokichi as his husband just...mmmmm… he had to be playing it up. Right? He had to be. He sounded so cute...sexy…

But he laughed at Kokichi’s daydream of Kaito in snow, smirking as he focused on the spot Kokichi had asked fo, a warm blush rushing across his face as he felt a small shudder in his husband, as a particular twisted knot underneath his thumb suddenly unwound, Kaito lessening the pressure, just soothing the muscle now as he said, “Yep. A six foot tall redhead struggling not to slip in ice and a nose as red as my dome. I’m sure I’ll look majestic.” Kaito snorted, rolling his eyes a little.

“And I gotta admit, carrying you? And Shuichi-- Man, I‘d be carrying Shuichi all the time if he was just a little smaller...maybe I need to get stronger…” Kaito frowned, frustrated, before continuing his earlier thought, “But I don’t do that to get horny, or help you out. I just like being close to you. It makes me happy.”

“Walking through fresh snowfall, making the first set of tracks through it… Little flakes swirling in the air, landing in your hair… Sometimes you can catch ‘em on your gloves, and they’ll be big enough to see the crystal designs… It’s really true, what they say about no two snowflakes being the same…” He was waxing pretty now, but a few weeks in to snow being up over his knees and Kokichi knew he’d be sighing and trudging like everyone else. But it was nice to enjoy the romance of snow at the start.

Kokichi tilted his head to the side as Kaito started working up the side of his neck, feeling comfortable and boneless in the water. And, for a moment, he put his hand over one of Kaito’s, just to touch. 

“I like being close to you too. Sometimes I think I’d rather walk but...being in Kai-chan’s arms always makes me happy. Make it easier to smooch ya too.” He laughed a little before softly moaning, slouching against the tub wall as he stretched out in the water, enjoying Kaito’s hands on him too. 

Kaito’s face went, ever so slightly, concerned at Kokichi’s confession that sometimes he’d rather walk...before he leaned into the side of his head, his lips brushed against Kokichi’s ear as Kaito moved his hands away from Kokichi’s neck, rubbing down his arm, before interlocking with his fingers.

“...you forgot, huh?” Kaito sighed softly against him. “Oh, ‘Kichi, babe… I guess I just need to remind you sometimes, huh?”

Kokichi slowly opened eyes that had closed in relaxed bliss, looking over his shoulder in confusion as his mind tried to track everywhere their conversation went, and what he might’ve forgotten. And…

The worried look on Kokichi’s face was faint, but there as he held Kaito’s hand. “...what did I forget?”

Kaito buried his face into Kokichi’s neck, kissing him there, enjoying the taste and scent of him, soap and all. He nibbled, slightly, his jar loose, not putting any real pressure on the bite. More the action of the bite turning Kaito on, then actually meant to put Kokichi through any pain, light or otherwise. 

As he did so, he pulled Kokich’s hand up to Kaito’s own neck, gently pressing his husbands fingers against his skin. And he let the bite go and he sighed, disappointed. 

“Babe.” He said, “If you can’t bring yourself to use your words, for whatever reason? We’ve got a thing for that.” he said, grinning against his skin, kissing him gently.

“Pinch me.” Kaito said into his ear. Tapping his fingers against Kokichi’s, feeling his small husband's fingertips press into his neck muscle. “You don’t have to justify anything to me. You don’t even have to tell me what I’m doing wrong, if I guess right the first time. If you can’t talk to me, for whatever reason. If you don’t want anyone hearing you telling me to back off, or you think you’ll say something that’ll make your Kai-Chan sad...just pinch me. I know what it means. I’ll stop.”

Despite his slight worry, Kokichi couldn’t help sighing happily as Kaito kissed and nibbled at his neck, more focused on that than whatever Kaito was guiding his hand to his neck for. And...even when Kaito started to explain, Kokichi still found himself being a little lost…

But then he put it together. 

The angle was a little weird for him, but Kokichi stroked Kaito’s neck, going up and along the edge of his jaw. “...it’s not a big deal. But...I’ll try to remember better this time.”

Shifting around in the tub, Kokichi turned around to face Kaito, kissing him for a few moments, just feeling their lips together, trying to have just...this soft, nice moment with his husband. Because when he leaned away, the smile he wore was a little sheepish. “...I dunno why I thought it just applied to when I was blowing you. But the same goes for me, alright? Pinch, and I stop.”

“...you know… Even on that aphrodisiac...when you brought up that...not safe word. Safe action? I felt so...taken care of. Loved. Think that was one of the things that helped me fall in love with you. One of a series of a lot of things that made me fall for you.”

“Pinches for blowjobs are very, very important.” Kaito mused, nodding sagely. “Man, when you want to talk about accidentally hurting someone? The biggest one was like, accidental, genuine choking. Like, the person receiving’s all lost in their own head, the person at the bottom can’t get away from them, can’t pull back enough to get a breath...that shits scary. That was a big one...sex is so physical. People accidently hurt each other all the time. I can’t believe how long it was before anyone taught me about safe words. Or, like ya said, safe action.” Kaito laughed, nuzzling his husband, “And, I don’t know...I know I said it like it was obvious, but I’ve never established the pinch outside of the bedroom in another relationship either. But it makes sense, doesn’t it? If the words are hard, or there are people around that you don’t want to embarrass either of us around...a pinch that just means stop? That makes sense to me…”

 Kaito kissed Kokichi’s cheek, before running his hands over his shoulders and neck again, looking for more tight spots, “You sore anywhere else, by the way? I’m already back here, you can just tell me, I’ll take care of it.”

Then, after a moment he said quietly, “And… of course I did, ‘Kichi. I didn’t want to hurt you.” Kaito said, and while he tried very, very hard not to let it, he couldn’t help the...sad, guilty tone in his voice, as he said quietly, “...I… I hurt you in a lot of ways. I’m so sorry… I’m really so sorry...but I really did go into this relationship never wanting to hurt you. Like...sexual or otherwise. I’ve never wanted to be that kind of husband...that kind of person.”

Kaito’s shoulders slumped, disappointed in himself as he said, “...I know I’m scary sometimes. That I’m too rough. I’m really sorry…”

Out of all the way it could’ve possibly gone, Kokichi was glad that Kaito was his husband, in the sexual sense. Having to navigate a sexual relationship for the first time...Kaito made it so much easier than it could’ve otherwise been. Having someone know exactly what they were doing, what to avoid… It made Kokichi feel safe. 

Humming vaguely, Kokichi nuzzled against Kaito, just enjoying his hands running over his neck now, his knots unwound and his muscles relaxed. “M good… Just like you here.”

...he always did. 

Closing his eyes, Kokichi pressed his forehead against Kaito’s, not just touching, but actually pushing against him a little. And when he opened his eyes, they were clear. Focused. 

“And I forgive you.”

“...it means a lot, to want to make up for your mistakes, you know?” He softened a bit, reaching out of the bath to gently cup his hands around Kaito’s face. “That you never wanted to hurt me.”

“You raped me.” And...for once, saying it didn’t make some little part of him quiver in terror. It was just...a statement. “It hurt me a lot, and put a huge strain on our relationship. I can’t say that I’ll never be hurt over it again...trauma doesn’t work like that. But...I’m not afraid of you anymore. Just the memory. Like a bad dream…”

Kokichi let out a breath, rocking his head against Kaito’s for a moment. “...and we’ve both come a long way since then. You’ve done so much to make up for that night… To prove yourself better than an impulse. And it’s not like neither of us will never make a mistake again...but I believe that we’ll always be able to move forward from it. Because we love each other, and we’re willing to put in the work to make things work. To put in the work love requires. So...I forgive you. And...I want to stick with you while you work to forgive yourself.”

“...that’s usually the hardest part, in my experience.” 

Kokichi maybe was able to say it without a quiver, but Kaito flinched at the words, a sick feeling rolling through his stomach, wanting to draw away from Kokichi. But he controlled himself, his touches, meant to sooth and comfort and delight, only faltering for a moment as Kaito pulled himself together.

Fucking grow a spine, Momota.  You can’t fucking run from a converation you started, just because Kokichi said straightforward what you were too chicken shit to do more than dance around.

And at that last part, Kaito felt so tired...he could hear Hideki in his head. He could barely remember the words that the older man had actually said. Could just remember that...that certainty he had felt. That Kaito...wasn’t ever going to get better...that it was never going to get better...that it would just hurt forever, until one day Kaito fucking couldn’t take it anymore, and he would…

...how would he kill himself?

If that was what it came too?

He had never thought about it before. Oh, sure, that feeling of ‘I don’t want to be alive’ had been coming up lately, but...that was just a feeling. It wasn’t actually a plan. Kaito had no fucking idea how he’d go about it.

Shuichi wanted to poison himself.

Kokichi wanted to jump.

Kaito would…

He frowned. Unable to imagine anything. 

In truth, he guessed he’d want to die in a fight. But that seemed less a suicide and more just a...way of leaving the world that didn’t frustrate him, on some level. That didn’t seem like a decent suicide plan. Hmmmm…

...Kaito laughed.

“Your husband is very stupid.” Kaito laughed. Feeling tired and a little ridiculous and so genuinely distracted from his suicidal thoughts by being genuinely unimpressed with all the suicide plan options that came to mind. He leaned his forehead against the top of Kokichi’s head. “I’m so stupid, ‘Kichi...I wish I was half as smart as you… you’re so good. I would have killed me, if I was you. Thank you for your forgiveness. I wish I understood.”

“You’re not stupid, Kai-chan. And I wish you gave yourself half as much credit as you give me.” Kokichi knew it wasn’t that easy but...well. Wishes were wishes. If wishes were fishes the world would have enough to eat. (Of course, he never agreed with that saying. There already was enough to eat--it was just dispersing those resources that created scarcity. But, still.)

“...I don’t think I’d ever be able to forgive myself if I killed you,” he sighed. Closing his eyes again and...trying to face that perspective. “More than just the act of killing you… Knowing I’d never see you again… Never hear you call me “Kichi” again...no one else calls me that like you do, you know? I’ve never see your process in painting a figurine, and I’ve never hear what you thought of the new Circleworld books. I’d never feel you hug me like you do, like y-you’re my whole world and I’m yours… Never see your progress in learning to - to cook, or see you get exc-cited buying a new cape, o-or…”

Kokichi didn’t realize he was crying until a silent sob cut into his words, his gentle touch turning into desperately holding Kaito close, almost...frightened to let him go. “I-I… It would destroy me to lose you, Kai-chan! Your life, you, mean everything to me… How could I ever destroy that?! Asking me to kill you would be asking to tear my own heart out!”

His voice broke, tears dropping down into the bath. 

“...as long as you’re alive, things can get better. Once you’re dead...there’s no chance for anything… And you leave everyone with the potential of what could’ve been… It hurts...knowing all the things someone left undone…”

“Hey, hey, come on now. I’m sorry, I’m sorry, hey…” Kaito reached around and hugged Kokichi, feeling his husbands hands on his arms like a vise, feeling guilty as he held his sobbing husband as well as he could from the other side of the ceramic, kissing the side of his head as he said, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to...I wasn’t asking you to kill me. I’m sorry I asked you to kill me. Okay? I’m sorry, I’m sorry...I’m not going anywhere. I promise…”

There. See? 

He promised. 

He promised his husband he wasn’t going to leave. 

If it hurt, he’d just...live with it. He could manage. He’d be okay.

Fuck Hideki.

Kaito shuddered, frustrated with his own hurt feelings, his own stupid, endless dificulties. Agonizing over this stuff was just making things harder on Kokichi. Kaito was better than this. He was better than this. Stop making this Kokichi’s problem! You stupid piece of shit! He loves you! It sucks hearing someone you love wish they were dead. Fucking stop it.

“Hey, come on… there’s no need for the waterworks, babe.” Kaito laughed, kissing him again, “I’m here. I’m right here. You didn’t kill me and I didn’t die and we still get to do all those things. Everything's fine. I’m sorry I said that…I’m so relieved that you are the way you are babe. I may not understand all the time, but I’m so relieved. I don’t want to leave you.”

“I know...I-I know...s-sorry…” It took a bit. Kokichi had just wanted to make a point that he’d much rather have Kaito around than not but...every time he thought about someone dying it just… It sent such agony through his heart. Thinking about a life interrupted, cut short. Someone there one day and then...gone forever. And as soon as he had starting thinking about it with that person being Kaito? He couldn’t stop from sliding down the rabbit hole. 

(Part of him wondered if Kaito’s dad had ever cried over all the Luminaries that had died in the war. If there was some counterpart in Luminary to the lists and lists of names, of the silence in their wake. The closed doors and stifled sobs, the empty, regretful stares into nothing.)

(...he didn’t really ever want to find out.)

But Kaito wasn’t dead, and he wasn’t going anywhere. It was just a cruel thought experiment. 

It took a bit, Kokichi trying to steady his breaths and stem his tears, crying into his husband’s arms, but eventually he got there and was back to lying over the side of the tub, though more with fatigue than relaxation this time. 

“...sorry. I just...made myself upset for no reason. What a superpower, right?” He huffed a near joyless laugh. “I know it’s not fair to you… Having to hear me say scary stuff about myself, and then to breakdown when you didn’t even say anything… That’s something I’m working on to earn your forgiveness.”

“...I don’t want to leave you either. At the end of everything...I love you, and you make me happy. That’s all I meant to say.”

“Good.” Kaito laughed, trying to pull this back as he hugged his husband, trying to radiate a sense of warmth and fondness and stability, beating back his own stupid insecurities and fears of the future with a mental stick as he breathed into Kokichi’s temple, voice lightly amused. “Glad we’re in agreement, then. Neither of us wants to leave and we both love each other and we’re both happy.”

“See? Easy. It’s easy. Even with all the other stuff. We can hold onto that? Then it’s all easy.” Kaito sighed. “We’re fine, babe. Everything’s fine.”

Outside the door, leaning against the doorframe, it occured to Shuichi, not for the first time, that his nosiness was going to be the end of him someday.

He stared at the ceiling. His face tired and still. His mind buzzing.

...everything was fine. Huh.

Hm.

Shuichi sighed, and hearing Kaito whisper more reassuring words to his recently sobbing husband, Shuichi pushed himself gently off the wall, and went to go lay down on the bed again. Thinking.

“We’re fine.”

Soon enough, the only sign that Kokichi had been crying were his puffy eyes, but he was starting to get all pruny in the bath, so that’d have to do. Wrapping a towel around himself as he sat on the edge of the tub, Kokichi gave Kaito a small smile. “It’s still kind of early...but could I convince you to let me go to sleep early if I wake up for dinner? And...do you think Shuu-chan would be okay with sharing the bed by now?”

Kaito snorted, running his hands through Kokichi’s wet hair, before taking a spare towel and putting it over his head, ruffling up his hair and drying it (or, well, making it less wet, anyway) as he said, “So long as you don’t try to pressure him into unwanted blow jobs, I think you’ll be fine, ‘Kichi. And sure.” He said, tossing the towel aside, “I mean, you don’t need my permission, obviously, but if you mean you want me to wake you up for dinner? No worries.”

Kaito rubbed the back of his neck, saying, “I could probably go bug Chako. I think she’s on duty today. See what they’re making for dinner. The others still don’t like me coming around, but she lets me watch if its not, ya know, crazy crazy busy, and like… honestly kinda fuck the rest of the kitchen staff.” Kaito said, an annoyed look in his gaze as he shrugged, “I know I was a pain in the ass, but, like… I don’t know. I’m kind of just at a point of ‘fuck it’ with them. If Chaki doesn’t mind, they can give me all the dirty looks they want. And if she does mind, I’ll, I don’t know. Go do something else. Whatever.” 

It was kind of a combination of the two ways of phrasing it. Kaito wasn’t his nurse or caretaker, and they both respected that. Kokichi loved his friends so...he was going to take better care of himself. But...they did still nag at him to make good on those efforts. Going to sleep earlier could definitely be an act of self care, and after all they’d done that day, it definitely counted, but...still. 

Kokichi huffed something of a laugh and nuzzled Kaito, placing a kiss on his cheek. “Well, I hope no one gives you trouble. I’m glad you and Chako-chan are something of friends though… It’s certainly a perk for your ever-growing cooking prowess. Whatever you decide to do...I’ll see you at dinner, love. You can tell me all about it then.”

With another smooch, Kokichi went to go step out of the bathroom, grimacing at the rush of cold air as he scurried to their closet, picking out a set of fuzzy pajamas. It was a relatively new set in his collection, the pants unhemmed and pooling at his feet even more than the others, but they didn’t slow Kokichi down as he climbed into bed and shuffled under the covers. 

“Sorry, Shuu-chan, but I think I’m gonna take a nap… Won’t disturb ya if you're still thinking.”

Kaito followed Kokichi out, taking his smooch with a great deal of pleasure, before calling out to Shuichi, who was still idly staring at the ceiling, “Shuichi, handsome? I’m going down to the kitchens. Did you… are you planning to take a nap too?”

“...hm?” Shuichi looked over at Kaito. Face calm. “Oh, yeah. I think I will.”

“Okay, I’ll come back for you two for dinner! Love you!”

“...” Shuichi smiled lighty. “Love you too, Kaito.”

And Kaito was off.

Shuichi watched him go, his brain buzzing, before looking over at Kokichi, taking his boyfriends cue as he also went under the covers, though he was still mostly dressed. He shuffled himself out of his jacket, before relaxing into the bedding, idly touching his stomach as he said, “I am still thinking, but you won’t disturb me either way, Kokichi.”

Shuichi was silent for awhile, before turning on his his side. Looking at Kokichi’s sleepy, puffy eyes, still evident with his eyes closed...and Shuichi reached out, brushing Kokichi’s hair back a little (which Kaito had been brushing himself, lately. Sometimes with a fight, sometime peacefully. His hair was getting softer...Kaito brushing and conditioning the damage out of it) as he said, quietly, “...it sounded like you were crying, earlier.”

Kokichi nodded, but just to make extra sure he wasn’t gonna bother Shuuichi, he gathered a pillow into his arms, hugging and curling around it in lieu of doing the same to his boyfriend. He’d inevitably shuffle closer to Shuuichi, seeking heat in his sleep, but this way Shuuichi could likely get by without having to contend with the cuddle octopus Kokichi often became. 

But...it seemed like Shuuichi was more in the ‘background’ thoughts of what he was thinking over, if how he initiated touch and conversation was any indication. Though, it might’ve been worry over-powering pensiveness. 

Kokichi sighed softly, shuffling closer to Shuuichi and nuzzling into his touch a bit. “Ah, sorry you heard all that… Kai-chan and I kinda...veered into heavy subjects, and I made myself upset thinking about something he didn’t even sort of imply. Freaked him out, and I’m sorry if I worried you too. It’s okay. Just, like, the worst sort of playing pretend you could do.” 

“...” Shuichi sighed. “I want to let you sleep. I know you’re tired. And I know I’m a hypocrite in saying this, considering I’m… always hiding some of my issues from Kaito these days, due to,” Shuichi shrugged, “well, you know. Accidently triggering him into librarian murder.”

“... but, it’d make me happy if you told me what was going on with you.” Shuichi whispered. “Instead of being vague and secretive and cryptic. Like...I know it doesn’t have to be my business. I know you’re allowed your secrets.”

“...but if you ever just wanted to tell me. I’d want to know.” Shuichi said. “I’ll worry about you either way. But at least I’d know why I was worrying. Or if I’m worrying too much...”

(Or too little.)

Nodding a little, understanding shown in Kokichi’s eyes. “Don’t mean to be cryptic...it’s just kind of embarrassing. But...letting you know would work better than just tellin’ ya that you don’t need to worry.”

Kokichi closed his eyes, sighing. “...the way people tend to forgive others is...really different between Luminary and Dicea. Kai-chan mentioned that...he didn’t understand why I hadn’t killed him. Like, he knows, but he doesn’t feel it, you know. And…”

“...and I meant to tell him why I prefer him alive and…” Though his eyes were still closed, Kokichi rolled his eyes at himself. He wasn’t in danger of spiraling himself again, he didn’t think so it was just...kind of embarrassing, like he’d said. “...and I made myself freak out, imagining if Kai-chan was dead. I can… It’s really hard for me to face death like that. And it kinda...got out of my hands.”

Another little sigh, and Kokichi opened his eyes a little, giving Shuuichi a wane smile. “Literally just made myself cry ‘cause I imagined my husband being dead. Nothing Shuu-chan needs to worry about since...there isn’t really a problem there.” 

Shuichi smiled softly at Kokichi, still running his fingers soothingly through his hair, before reaching down at taking Kokichi’s hand, squeezing it gently. Looking at him through his pile of pillows, Shuichi said, “I think it’s sweet that even just an idea like that would upset you. You’re… very kind. It’s something I like quite a lot about you.”

“...what did he think you should kill him for?” Shuichi asked.

There were the two obvious ones, of course. Their wedding night, and the choking incident. But Kaito hadn’t been responsible for the aphrodisiac, and he had been chest deep in spores by the time he had gotten around to choking Kokichi on that awful, frightening day, and while Kaito had strong feelings about the ideas of justice, Shuichi didn’t think Kaito would literally want to die over two events that were so wildly out of his control. It didn’t sound like him.

So… what was bothering him so much? That he was still looking at Kokichi like his husband should kill him?

Kokichi’s smile widened a little, squeezing Shuuichi’s hand back...though that smile didn’t last for long. Just like in the bathroom, his expression didn’t go small or afraid or hurt, but… Well, he could be forgiven for not wanting to talk about it with other people, right?

“...don’t get mad, okay? We’ve gotten past it, and… Kai-chan’s already tortured himself enough. He’s still doing it, and I have a feeling it’ll stay for a while, but...I want Kai-chan to forgive himself too one day. To see how far he’s come since then.”

Kokichi sighed. 

“And I told Maki-chan too, after it happened. So...I know how it sounds, but we’ve gotten past it.”

Placing a light kiss to Shuuichi’s hand, as if to impress his desire for Shuuichi to not blow it out of proportion, Kokichi took a breath to speak. 

“...you know how...you kissed me in my sleep, and I said I trusted you to not do it again, ‘cause you were determined to be better? And that Kai-chan was being better too?”

“Hmmm.” Shuichi said, something sad lightly sprinkling his face. “Yes. I remember.”

“...the night before my heart attack, Kai-chan raped me. That’s...why it wasn’t just what you were saying to me that spurred it, I think.”

Shuichi felt that strange, rare, shock of rage burn through him...but he just blinked. Sighed. His body cooling, forcing calm onto himself. 

He rubbed Kokichi’s thumb a little. Those little joints. Thin fingers.  Thin wrists. Thin muscles… Kokichi was so small…

“...was it like the wedding? Were either of you on anything?” Shuichi asked.

“No.” Kokichi held Shuuichi’s hand, just being a presence there, trying to keep his boyfriend in the present though that awful past was tempting to delve into. “I was asleep. Kai-chan said that...he got himself into this power fantasy. That I belonged to him, so it was fine to take whatever he wanted.”

“Then, he panicked when I woke up. And...I offered to have sex with him, because…” It was only then a grim look crossed over Kokichi’s face. “...I was really insecure about our relationship, Shuu-chan. I always...thought I was doing something wrong, or that I wasn’t enough, and...waking up like that just made all those fears seem real. So I offered to have sex, ‘cause Kai-chan could have what he wanted if he just asked. And then I cried afterward and...we talked about everything, and it was awful.”

“...Kai-chan got that dagger that his family sent, and got in a submission bow and...made me hold the dagger.” There was a bit of fear in Kokichi’s eyes at that part of the memory. Of trying to pull away and just...having to stay still so Kaito didn’t accidentally get hurt. “Made me go through with the whole thing. And I refused to kill him.”

He let out a little breath. “...it was a really horrible night.”

“...but Kai-chan isn’t that person anymore. We’ve all grown since then.” So don’t do anything rash.

Shuichi’s cool, golden eyes blinked slowly, the biggest sign of what was going on in his head a small frown on his face, and the way his thumb kept rubbing over Kokichi’s hands.

(...if you belonged to someone, they could do anything they wanted to you?)

(Is...is that what that means, Kaito?)

(Kaito Momota?)

(Is that what that means!?)

Shuichi sighed. He brought Kokichi’s hand to his mouth, and kissed lightly at his fingers. Small joints… “Maki already knows?” he asked.

Kokichi nodded, rubbing Shuuichi’s hand now. “Yeah. I told her a while ago… I think she and Kai-chan might’ve had a fight about it during one of their spars, but… I dunno.”

“...it’s not okay that it happened, but… It’s okay now, Shuu-chan,” Kokichi reassured again. “The best apology is changed behavior. Being better than the person you were. And Kai-chan’s proven both of those things to me. I’ve forgiven him. So…”

He sighed. “...you don’t have to take it up with fresh feelings because you’ve just found out about it. I know it’s awful. I know you’re pissed at Kai-chan. That you wanna do something about it. But...we’ve already gone through all of that. So...please don’t. If you need to talk it out, I won’t ask that you won’t but just...don’t do anything. Please.” 

Shuichi looked at Kokichi’s sweet, urgent eyes. His boyfriend was being sincere. Incredibly sincere. And Maki already knew, and Shuichi had always trusted her, when it came to not allowing harm to stand uncontested, when it came to her loved ones. She didn’t let things go. Not idly, anyway.

Kokichi was past this. Maki had likely already done something about it. Kaito was still beating himself up about it, apparently.

Shuichi didn’t need to do anything.

Shuichi blinked...before kissing Kokcihi’s hands again. “...you’re really okay?”

“I am.”

Kokichi shuffled a little closer, kissing Shuuichi’s hand on the other side of their clasp. “Like I told Kai-chan, and why I was crying… I’m more bothered by the idea of him being gone than him taking advantage of me, these days. Sure, it’d be great if it never happened, but...it did. So we move on.”

Shuichi smiled slightly, nodding. 

“Okay.” He said. “So long as you’re okay… thank you for telling me. I’m sorry you went through that. I hope you’d tell me if he...if he does something like that again. I hope he won’t. But if he does, I hope you’d trust me with that.”

Kokichi nodded, though his smile was back, tired and weak, as he let out a breath, trusting that Shuuichi wouldn’t go after Kaito for this. “I believe in Kai-chan that he won’t. But you and Maki-chan would be the first to know otherwise.”

Kokichi kissed Shuuichi’s hand again and snuggled down against the pillow in his arms, his eyes closing for a good few moments before he opened them again. “...hate to leave you with thoughts like these but...I really do think I need a nap. You gonna be okay?”

Shuichi nodded. “Of course. Go to sleep, Kokichi. I’ll probably get some shut eye too… I love you. Thank you again for talking to me.” he said quietly.

“I love you. See you later, Shuu-chan.” 

Shuichi watched as Kokichi’s eyes started to flutter, and listened as his boyfriends breathing changed, becoming more even, and a little louder. Kokichi always slept with his mouth a little open, his breathing coming in these little snuffling sounds, and because of that it was always immediately obvious when he was actually out, rather than drifting.

As Shuichi watched his boyfriend sleep, his thought process raced.

...Kaito had said he had a power imbalance kink.

He had said that literally, like… a week ago. Something along those lines.

Recent.

He had emphasised that, while he liked to feel powerful, that he liked his partner to be the powerful one too. Had talked a lot about that. Which Shuichi had thought was odd, even as it was happening. During all their times sleeping together so far, Kaito had never really given Shuichi the impression of this kink either way. Sure, he was maybe a little pushy in bed. And, he had definitely enjoyed it when Shuichi had covered his eyes. But beyond that…

...Kaito trying to compensate for what he had done to Kokichi? By avoiding the kink like the plague? By even when bringing it up, emphasising giving power to the other person?

...that was fine. Sure. But…

...he had still confessed it was his favorite kink. His favorite thing to do in bed.

...Kaito had raped Kokichi in his sleep, because when you had power over someone, you could do anything you wanted to them. And he liked that.

Shuichi had another hot flicker of anger, which he froze over again. Calm. Stay calm. Think. 

Maki had likely already punished him. Fine. Shuichi wouldn’t punish him.

Kokichi had already forgiven him. Shuichi could respect that. He wouldn’t insist that Kokichi was wrong to do so.

...but Kaito still thought like that. Regardless of his actions. And in Shuichi’s mind, so long as Kaito still saw ‘power imbalance’ as fun, then...his boyfriend could slip up again…

...Kokichi was so small… and so quick to dismiss his own needs…

Hmmmm.

…Shuichi would have to be very careful. He didn’t want either Kokichi or Kaito to be...upset with him. No one had to know what he was thinking. He could get what he wanted without anyone knowing anything had happened at all.

(And it was...kind of exciting. To think like that.)

(...there was a terrible part of Shuichi who missed being the boogieman.)

(Maki wasn’t the only one who didn’t know what to do with all these now useless, dark impulses that had been trained into them since five years old.)

(...this could be fun…)

He eventually fell asleep. When Kaito came back a few hours later, Shuichi and Kokichi both woke up with little yawns, and Kaito had grinned wide at that, gushing over them, kissing their cheeks and drawing them into wakefulness with teasing insistence and adoring reassurance that dinner was going to be worth getting up for! Apparently it was chicken, and apparently Kaito had been allowed to make mashed potatoes, and they had come out alright! Another recipe to the pile! 

It was so sweet and cute that Shuichi almost reconsidered.

They went to dinner, and Waku and Hajime were both there, and they joined them from the beginning, talking idly about the recent harvest, and speaking excitedly of Unity. Kaito and Shuichi had listened quietly, the group talking so adamantly about it that both felt too shy to ask what the fuck Unity even was, trying to pick up on it through context clues. Eventually Ikou had shown up, and they had goaded him into telling stories from his acrobatic group. 

Kaito laughed at the story of a bear that had just...shown up? And had started wandering the showman tent, poking its nose into things and sniffing at the acrobats, in the middle of a performance, that the acrobats had spent the whole show desperately acting as if the bear was a part of the act, trying to not let the audience freak out and, in turn, freak the bear out into attacking anything. The wild bear was a shocking patient performer, and at one point one of the acrobats had even dared to bounce a ball off its butt, which had made the children laugh and the bear had seemed entirely unbothered by. After the performance, the bear had wandered away with as little issue as it had wandered in with, and they never saw it again.

“Wild.” Maki had said, her and Timothy arriving by that point, Timothy inhaling the mashed potatoes, to Kaito’s endless delight. “That could have gone a lot worse. Bears can be very territorial.”

It was generally agreed that the situation had been dangerous, but it was nice that it had played out as well as it had.

After dinner, Maki had invited the boys out to the courtyard, apparently ready to teach Timothy the first part of fire safety, in the sense of ‘how to not be on fire if you are inexplicably on fire’, and decided Shuichi and Kaito could use refreshers and wanted Kokichi to know how to do it too. It turned out someone had already taught Kokichi this, but Maki still made all of them do the drill, and as the group stop, dropped and rolled for awhile, Lake had eventually showed up, curious what was going on, and then determined to show off how well she could roll.

...she ended up on the roof, at one point. She hadn’t meant to get there. She had just rolled so hard that she had landed there. Katsuki helped her down.

On their way up to their rooms, tired and covered in grass and dirt, they saw Kirumi instructing Kerry, who was looking nervous at whatever she was scolding them about, but they spotted Kokichi and gave him a wave, Kirumi nodding politely before returning to her instruction. Maki gave Kirumi a Look, but otherwise it was fine.

Kaito forced Kokichi to sit down and let him brush out some of his tangles, to Kokichi’s protest, as Kaito liked to brush both in the morning and at night, and while the morning one made some sort of sense, why at night??? What was the point!??? But Kaito insisted, and the two argued over the merits of night brushing the whole time, but by the end of it Kokichi’s hair was brushed and conditioned and Shuichi enjoyed running his fingers through it some more as Kaito prepared their medicines. 

“Thank you, Kaito.” Shuichi said, smiling warmly at his boyfriend when he took his medicine from him.

“No worries, handsome.” Kaito said cheerfully, before going over to Kokichi, kissing him with loud smacking kisses on his cheek, saying cheerfully to him, “You good? Ready to go to sleep?”

Kokichi still pouted at Kaito, but...he’d never admit it. But it didn’t hurt as much as when he used to brush his hair himself. It was almost...nice sometimes. Kaito doting on him and running his fingers through his hair…

Like Shuuichi did, which Kokichi had been happy to let him know that it was nice. 

Snuggling his way down into the center of the bed, claiming it as his own once again, Kokichi flopped himself down on the pillows. “Beyond ready! It was a good lesson to have, but geez… I feel like I could sleep in til noon even with my nap earlier. I’m gonna be out like a light!”

And, splayed out in the center of the bed, Kokichi patted the spaces on either side of him, not quite ready to sleep until his heater cuddle-buddies were there too.

“Right? I feel like actually being on fire would be less stressful then Maki’s drills.” Kaito joked, wearing just a shirt and boxers that night, some nights nothing but pajama bottoms (even in the chillier temperature, Kaito couldn’t bring himself to wear a full set to bed. It was too uncomfortable. He felt strangled in that much clothes.), as he curled in beside Kokichi, kissing his forehead and pulling him to himself, sighing as he got onto the pillow. “Shuichi? You good, bud? Anything you need?”

“No,” Shuichi said, getting in on the other side of Kokichi, placing a small kiss against his temple, before wrapping his arm around his boyfriends waist, sighing contently as he said, “Thank you though. I love you both.”

“Love ya guys!” Kaito said cheerfully, far too loud for right before bed, clearly not actually sleepy yet but accommodatingly saying, “Goodnight!”

“Goodnight, Kai-chan; goodnight, Shuu-chan. I love you both.” Kokichi tilted his head toward Shuuichi, putting one hand on the ones around him while he found Kaito’s hand with his other. He’d lose grip and move around in the night, but at least for now...it was nice. 

Kokichi loved being between his lovers. Enveloped by them both, sometimes, if he was lucky in how they shifted, able to hear and feel both of them breathing at the same time, getting the best parts of sleeping with someone but from two people. Feeling safe and warm and loved…

He sighed happily, closing his eyes as he prepared for sleep. 

He could deal with Byakuya. He could help with whatever Maki needed him for in saving her family. He trusted his lovers. 

It’d all be okay. 

Hours passed.

Shuichi stared at the ceiling. Doubting himself. Reconsidering. Maybe this was unnecessary. Maybe it wouldn’t even lead to what Shuichi was trying to do. Kaito was so damn thirsty. It might have the total opposite effect. Maybe Kaito would love it. 

...he didn’t think Kaito would love it.

...did Shuichi really want to hurt Kaito?

He wouldn’t force Kaito into anything. That was important. If Kaito agreed with all of it, then Shuichi wasn’t doing anything wrong, right? Not really, right? Just because Shuichi...knew Kaito well enough to know his boyfriend likely wouldn’t be able to think around this. Just because he knew Kaito wouldn’t refuse him. That didn’t mean Shuichi had forced him.

(...he had let her into his room.)

(He had begged her to do it.)

Shuichi twitched. Staring at the ceiling.

This wouldn’t be worth it. He shouldn’t do it. He didn’t know why the idea had gotten into his head in the first place. Kokichi had asked him to not do anything. Maki had likely already punished Kaito. Kaito was already trying to be better. Shuichi shouldn’t ‘help’.

Shuichi closed his eyes. Determined to not do it.

(You being this weak and pathetic is why she was able to do it.)

Shuichi got up from bed and walked around to the other side. Being very careful to not wake Kokichi as he gently shook Kaito’s shoulder. When those sharp, magenta eyes opened up, Shuichi placed his index finger in front of his mouth. “Shhh.” Shuichi said, gesturing to Kokichi. “It’s the middle of the night.”

Kaito gave Shuichi a concerned, sleepy look, but nodded. Gently pulling himself from Kokichi, who whined a little in his sleep, his heat packs leaving him, Kaito whispered to Shuichi, “What’s up? Something wrong, bud?”

Shuichi shook his head, smiling softly. Then, leaning forward, he took Kaito’s face in his hands, and kissed him gently. Kaito was surprised, but leaned into the kiss, smiling against it, endlessly pleased, if still confused as Shuichi broke it, whispering into his ear.

“Wanna go to the shrine?”

Kaito’s eyes widened. “What? Now?”

Shuichi nodded, a little shyly, “If you want too…”

Kaito grinned, looking considerably more awake, excited, before looking over to Kokichi with a frown. “Without ‘Kichi?”

Shuichi nodded.

“...why?” Kaito asked, looking conflicted. “I mean, I want to. But he might be hurt to know we left without him…”

Shuichi blushed, looking more shy as he whispered. “...I wanna try some stuff that...might make him uncomfortable. With you.” Shuichi pulled at his bangs a little, looking around for his hat and putting it on, before giving Kaito a shaky smile. “...you… you’ve said before you want to try it? To take me in, I mean… I want to try it.”

Kaito lit up, grinning wide, still whispering, but hissing out an excited, “Really?”

Shuichi nodded. “Yeah. If you still want too?”

Kaito nodded enthusiastically, before saying, “Let me grab the lube. And, I guess a condom too. Still not supposed to mix spores...eeee! I’m so excited!” He whispered, getting up and grabbing the items from the sex drawer, before leaning over to tuck the covers tighter around Kokichi, trapping the heat as he whispered to his husband, “We’ll be back, babe. Wish me luck.” Kaito snickered.

They headed to the shrine. Kaito practically skipping, talking a mile a minute about ways they had to keep safe, and how they were definitely going to be able to manage it! Kaito could handle it! Shuichi would get to let loose and enjoy himself! 

Shuichi watched him calmly. 

(He wasn’t making Kaito do anything he didn’t want to do.)

(Shuichi wasn’t doing anything wrong.)

When they got to the shrine, Kaito and Shuichi did a quick prayer, before setting up the bean bags, Kaito getting a little more nervous as the time got closer, but, well, they were going to take their time and be careful and Shuichi would stop if it got to be too much! It was fine! This was going to be fun! 

And...it was. 

Up to a point.

Kaito had been shivering and sweating, a loopy, happy grin on his face while Shuichi was three fingers in, opening him up with Kaito’s careful guidance. And, absolutely, Kaito needed way more prep, but they were still early into it, and they had all night, and Kaito wasn’t too worried about it...but Shuichi got another shy look on his face. And he confessed a small fantasy to Kaito, based on what his boyfriend had said during their game of questions.

Kaito had… hesitated a moment, when Shuichi brought up bindings. It was exciting! It was! But bindings, along with...trying to fit the beast for the first time? Like that was a kinda risky combination. And Kaito tried to say that, but…

His heart plummeted when Shuichi looked embarrassed, shamed as his boyfriend pulled away, saying, “Oh...sorry, I didn’t...I guess that was a...a gross suggestion. I should have never...I’m sorry, I...I should have known better than to bring up something so weird...I’m weird-”

“Hey, hey, no , that’s not what I meant...look, we can try it! It’s fine, it’s fine, there’s nothing wrong with it!” Kaito reassured him, feeling guilty that he had tried to shoot down one of the few times his insecure boyfriend had ever asked for something in their sex life. “We’ll just be careful, okay? It’ll be fine! It’ll be fun!”

...it almost had been.

But forty minutes later Kaito was sweating harder, and shivering more violently, as he hissed between his teeth, “Slower, please… Shuichi slower...f-fuck….ah, ah, ow, Shuichi, pull back, pull bac-”

But Shuichi leaned in and broke Kaito’s pleas with a kiss. Pretending to not understand. Even though he could feel how little Kaito’s skin was stretching right now. How tight he was around him. Even though he was barely in...and Kaito already looked at his limit. His muffled words now urgent, pained whines. 

Shuichi waited until he had managed to push himself in. Kaito hissing in pain, his body shaking. He waited until he was in… and then he stopped breaking Kaito’s protests with kisses, and said, worried, into his ears, “Am I too much?”

Kaito had tears in his eyes. He wasn’t weeping. It was just the..the pain was a lot. Kaito looked up at Shuichi’s worried, sad look, and he wanted to say he was fine, that he could keep going, he didn’t want to scare him…

...but fuck something was broken in him it hurt, it hurt, it hurt. And, embarrassed, Kaito said, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, we need to stop, I can’t.”

Shuichi looked sad, giving a soft, regretful nod… before whispering to him-

“Do you want to try again tomorrow?”

Kaito twitched. But Shuichi looked at him so hopefully. Like his heart would break if Kaito said no...and Shuichi was still so hard in Kaito, and Kaito hadn’t been able to fucking cut it. Hadn’t just been able to handle it. And that wasn’t fair, it wasn’t fair, Shuichi should be able to fuck his boyfriend, it wasn’t fair that Kaito had fucking chickened out (it just hurt, please, he was sorry, it hurt) and…

“Y-yeah.” Kaito said, ignoring his sense of dread. “Yeah, we can try again tomorrow. J-just...be slow getting out, okay? Just be slow...ow, fuck, mmmmmnnnn stop stop stop-”

Shuichi gave Kaito a pitying look. “I can’t stop moving, Kaito. I have to get out of you. It’s okay, I’m almost out.”

And it felt like it took forever but eventually Shuichi was out of him, and Kaito just held still for awhile, shivering, waiting for the ache to die down (even though he knew damn well it wasn’t going too, broken, torn, he was fucking in shreds, fuck) as Shuichi gently rubbed at Kaito’s face, leaving the bindings for now… “I’m sorry I hurt you.” Shuichi said quietly.

“...i-it’s okay, handsome. I’m okay. It’s just gonna take a l-little more prep than that! N-now we know!”

“Okay...we’ll try again tomorrow?”

“...yeah. Yeah, we can t-try again tomorrow. Of course.”

“Okay…” Shuichi said, carding his fingers through Kaito’s hair… before saying, “Can we finish me with your mouth?”

By the time Kaito and Shuichi left the shrine, leaving the binding and lube behind in the shrine itself, Kaito was trying very hard to hide a limp, and his voice was in a rasp. Shuichi worried Kokichi wouldn’t like what they were trying to do. Kaito assured him that they could keep it to themselves for now. “I’ll tell him I have a cold or something, and I can walk through a limp, no problem. When we finally manage to get it? Like, once we get my body trained to it? We’ll surprise him with it.” Kaito rasped cheerfully. “It’ll be a fun surprise!”

Shuichi smiled at that. Kaito seeming in much better spirit now.

(Shuichi hadn’t made him do anything.)

(He hadn’t done anything wrong.)

Kaito had a bath, trying to ease his aches before the morning, and Shuichi crawled back into bed with Kokichi. Curling around him with a sigh.

Despite getting plenty of rest and having Kaito physically tell his shoulders to stop messing with him…

Kokichi woke up with a headache. 

It wasn’t a bad one. He didn’t feel like the world was pulsing around him, or that he was gonna hurl, or that he wanted to take his head off and throw it somewhere very far away. It was just...kind of annoying. The kind of thing he expected from a tension headache, all the way to a slight aching in his jaw where he’d been grinding his teeth the day before. 

A horrible habit but...not one he did consciously, most of the time, and hopefully not something he’d have to do often. 

Still, Kokichi’s morning was full of sighs and squinting away from lights as he got ready and trudged his way to the office. Well. No. Down to the dining hall, because he had promised to at least try eating for all meals, even if eating seemed like the last thing he wanted to do, but it was after a cup of tea, an egg, and a biscuit that he actually made it to the office, and Nadya, ever-patient Nadya, seemed to gather that Kokichi was in a bit of a mood, so they worked in the office silently. 

...he wasn’t gonna ask Kaito for another shoulder rub. For one thing, he’d apparently woken up with a cold...or something (Kokichi really hoped it wasn’t just a delayed illness from what he caught before Harvest), and rest was important for getting back to one hundred! And, also, even though it always felt nice, Kokichi knew it wasn’t ‘cause of knots in his neck. Might’ve been originally but...well. It was too hopefully to hope that he’d made it out of yesterday’s call unskathed. 

But with lots of water and rest and not doing anything too strenuous, he’d be fine. 

It was just a headache. 

Kokichi spent the rest of the day indeed not doing anything too strenuous, opting to curl up in the library and read for a while, before the kids came back after school and he tried to answer any homework questions he could--he hated math, but fractions weren’t that bad--and he…

...it had been difficult, broaching the subject of their relationship with the others. Especially with Denji and Lake...Hideki too, though… Well, the older man had never been the warmest person. Apparently he hadn’t registered Kokichi as being distant at all, just used to relationships being like that. Kokichi called him a big liar and...well, that conversation had been the easiest of the bunch. He was sure his uncle found it novel that his issues expressing himself made it easier to connect with someone for once.

Lake had cried. Not sobbing, but there were tears in her eyes as she laughed, first loudly, then just...the soft way she did when she laughed in the face of horrible things. His big sister had thought that she’d been the one to drive him off. That she didn’t put in the effort to be with him more when guard training started to take up all her time. That moving out of the castle and living with Nazumi (and not starting a relationship with her, wh-what are you saying?!) was...her abandoning him, even if they saw each other almost every day still. 

They had hugged for a long time. Maki had mentioned something like it before, but in that moment, Kokichi couldn’t help thinking how similarly Lake and Kaito hugged him, only with the difference of romance and familial love. 

Kokichi had always appreciated everything his big sister did to make him feel more like a regular kid. If Kaito was his hero these days...Lake had been the hero of his childhood. The older woman had bawled after that, too flattered and touched. 

Denji had cried too, but it was way worse than Lake’s tears. His big sib had yelled at him, furious. Daring him to say that he thought he was better than them, hah?! That there was a single thing his twiggy-ass could do to get them to do a single thing they didn’t want to. That they were there because they had chosen it, that no one else was in charge of Denji Hadeba’s life, that- That- 

(For the first time, Denji actually said the words “I love you” to him. It was about as uncomfortable and reassuring as they’d both imagined.)

Kokichi had almost been tempted to rub his head into a burr pile just to get that smug look off of his big sibling’s face when they said they noticed that he’d been brushing his hair. 

But. Well. 

He’d cleared things up with everyone. So Kokichi had spent the latter half of the afternoon making flower crowns with his sister, talking every now and then, but mostly enjoying the companionable silence with someone he’d known his entire life. 

The headache was still annoying when he and his lovers got ready for bed that night but...he was hoping another good night of sleep would solve that for him.

Kaito hadn’t been able to move around a...whole lot that day. 

For the most part, he waited until Kokichi had gone ahead of him, before going anywhere. He didn’t want his husband to know how stupid Kaito had been and fuss over him, so he got up and went out to train the kids before Kokichi had opened his eyes, and every time he saw them that day, he just stayed still, waiting for Kokichi to leave before getting up to go wherever Kaito needed to go next.

Timothy had asked him why they were going to school so slow. Kaito had said he had hurt his knee during the run they had done the day before and Timothy had nodded, asking no more about it.

Kaito had listened with pride when Kokichi had told him about talking to his friends (well, ‘siblings’ and ‘uncle’, as Kokichi described them) finally, getting Kokichi’s insecurities out in the open and finally putting to rest this ‘obligation’ stuff. Kaito had been so fucking proud, as stated before, but outside of listening to Kokichi talk about it through dinner, Kaito spent most of his day in bed. He wore a mask all day to keep up the illusion it was a cold, but wow...he had forgotten how bad this could feel. Everything hurt…

And Kaito was already in bed by the time Kokichi and Shuichi had settled in, Kaito having to be woken up to take his medicine before he went back to sleep, trying to give his aching body the rest it needed… and in the dark of the night, he felt a gently tap against his shoulder.

Shuichi’s golden eyes looked at him fondly in the shadows. “Ready to try again?”

It was going to hurt. It was going to hurt no matter what they did, because Kaito was already torn, and Kaito tried to explain that to Shuichi as they headed to the shrine. But Shuichi seemed hopeful it’d go better this time, saying, “Your hole is blown out, right? It’ll need less coaxing.”

“I...yeah, but...we just need a lot more lube, this time, okay? Like, imagine a stupid amount of it, and whatever you’re imagining? We’ll need more. Okay?”

“Okay, Katio” Shuichi said, nodding. Before looking shyly at his boyfriend. “...can we add...one more thing? If that’s okay?”

Kaito should have said no. But...it wasn’t like...he couldn’t talk around the gag. It just made his words more muffled. Shuichi could still hear him. It was just a kink thing, the visual of it. So… 

And an hour later, when Kaito was again, begging, begging to stop, Shuichi did understand him. And Shuichi had pretended like he didn’t, for a moment, but after awhile, he leaned in and whispered, “We can stop.”

“But first tell me I’m in charge.”

“Tell me we stop when I say we stop…”

“...” Kaito swallowed. A small rush of fear running through his stomach, mixed with arousal. It was hot to hear Shuichi talk in that tone of voice, but less so when his insides were on fucking fire...it hurt, it hurt, it hurt- “We stop when you say we stop.” Kaito said quickly, gasping as Shuichi shifted inside of him, his boyfriend leaning down to kiss the side of his eyes. “Can we stop?”

“Yeah.” Shuichi sighed, sounding disappointed. “We can stop.”

“But we’ll start again tomorrow.”

Unfortunately, the headache wasn’t gone in the morning. In fact, his jaw even felt a little stiffer. But...sometimes that’s just how it went, and you had to deal. 

Or, you could get medicine to help, but Kokichi didn’t want to do that until after work. A lot of the time when he asked for medicine it just made him sleepy and...he could deal with the headache long enough to make sure he got some work done before the rest of the day had a chance to be a wash. 

For something as mundane as painkillers for a headache, Kokichi didn’t need to bother Seiko. She was busy enough working on the antifungal medicine and keeping track of all the other people on it besides Shuuichi, and… 

He’d brought it up in a meeting a while ago, actually. The idea of highlighting a scientist or artist or sanitation specialist or...just, choosing a member of the community every now and then and having a little article about their work in the paper. Maybe giving tips to others in similar fields, maybe introducing someone to something they wanted to look into more… But a regular highlight of all the amazing people that lived in Dicea. 

And, maybe with a little more nudging from him, Seiko’s article had been in the paper. And from what Katsuki said about her route that morning, there were a lot more people on Belladonna Street than usual. Something all the shop owners seemed to be pleased about, and while she didn’t see the doctor outside, there had been a steady rhythm of people coming in and out of the pharmacy. 

So, yeah, Seiko was busy with other stuff to recommend something for a little headache. 

After work, Kokichi headed to the med ward, asking for a painkiller and...not feeling as defensive as he usually was when various healers crowded around him, asking if he needed to lie down and if he had any other symptoms and, and… But he just...got the pills, affirmed that it was all he needed, and left. No one doing anything more than putting a concerned hand on his shoulder. 

He’d tracked down Ikuo, wanting some father-son bonding time, and...well, Ikuo knew his son enough. It was still bonding time even if it was him silently working on a baby quilt as Kokichi dozed leaning against him. 

Dinner had been a type of curry, and Kokichi opted for a milder version, though not as mild as his friends, which he still teased. And after dinner came another round of father-son bonding time, though with Kokichi and Aiichi playing some Go Fish, talking idly to each other, unable to completely avoid business, as just a fact of who they were, Kokichi poking his father as he’d said, about the offer on the help for the farmlands. 

He’d been right. Aiichi was working on negotiations to offer a steady system of food relief, thinking of the upcoming famine in Luminary (which had definitely caught Kokichi’s attention, even through the haze on his mind. They were expecting a famine?). 

It was a tricky situation. Aiichi had already been in semi-regular contact with the Kuzuryuu Clan from the war, and had been planning on sending relief through their systems like before, trusting that food would actually get to the people rather than relying on a government that seemed to revel in false scarcity. But...there were other tensions now, and not just from cooperating with Byakuya for the potential offer. 

Kokichi couldn’t get his dad to say what it was. 

Kokichi had gone to bed pensieve that night, assuring his lovers that he was just thinking, and that was all. Not sad or hurt or anything. 

...even if his jaw was still aching. 

Kokichi may not have wanted to bother Seiko, but after slooooowly dropping off Timothy and the girls to school, Kaito sloooooowly went to her pharmacy, looking...not his best. Just tired. Really tired. And he looked around, surprised by how busy it was, but it wasn’t like he needed to bother Seiko in a special way. He just looked through her aisles, trying to find what he needed.

And he waited in line, right along with everyone else, and when he got to her counter, Kaito had given Seiko a wide grin and asked her how she was and quickly paid for the extra-strength painkillers and the, heh, anal muscle relaxant. 

He thought about trying to say something to explain himself, but, well… what was he going to do? Just say his ass was seizing up for no fucking reason? He doubted she was judging anyway, and he didn’t want to call attention to it anyway, trying to ignore the tense whispering that had been happening behind him the whole time he was in line anyway.

As he left, he took a moment to just be glad that Seiko’s business seemed to be doing so much better now. He wondered what had changed? Maybe it was just a seasonal thing?

He went back to the castle, went into the bathtub, took the muscle relaxant between his fingers after swallowing maybe a little more than the recommended amount of painkiller and carefully forced his fingers inside. It stung like a bitch and he felt more than a little stupid that it had come to this, but he felt so much better once he was done that it didn’t matter.

As he settled in for the night, he noticed the lines under Kokichi’s eyes, something tense in his husband, and he asked him about it, but Kokichi reassured him it was nothing, and Kaito had just nodded, kissing his husband and boyfriend goodnight and going to sleep.

Kaito thought about telling Shuichi no, when he woke him up that night. A rush of dread going through him. But the muscle relaxant and the painkillers had helped enough that Kaito couldn’t bring himself to disappoint Shuichi, who seemed so determined to make this work. And Kaito understood why. Kaito had been practically begging him a few times the last two months to let them try this, and now that Shuichi was ready to give it a shot? His boyfriend wanted it to work. That was fair.

As for the...power play stuff?

Katio had just told Shuichi that was one of his favorite kinks.

His boyfriend was trying to make it fun for him.

And, keeping all this in mind, Kaito said to Shuichi that day they could keep trying, but please, this time, he really, really needed Shuichi to try to prep him as much as he could. If he couldn’t move his arms, he couldn’t help or ease it or do it himself. If they wanted to keep tying him up, Shuichi had to take longer with the prep. And he didn’t mind the gag! He didn’t! But Shuichi, he wasn’t…

Kaito hesitated. 

He was going to say he wasn’t playing, when he was asking Shuichi to stop. That it hurt, and when he said ‘stop’, he meant it...but he didn’t want to make Shuichi feel bad. Every time he broached the subject, Shuichi got this wide, hurt, alarmed look on his face, and Kaito couldn’t...he quickly found himself dropping it, or backtracking. He didn’t want to make Shuichi feel like he had done something wrong…

So, this time, Kaito cheerfully suggested a safe word? He didn’t actually like safe words. The pinching thing he loved, because it was useful when your mouth was otherwise busy, but during sex he always thought ‘stop’ and ‘slow down’ and ‘no’ were safe enough words already…

...but Shuichi wasn’t listening to any of those…’

So Kaito suggested the word Moon. If either of them said ‘moon’, they’d stop and check on each other, okay? You hear ‘moon’, everything stops. Okay?

Okay, Shuichi said quietly. Moon.

And forty minutes later, while Shuichi was determinedly starting to move inside of Kaito, who was breathing heavy, every other breath a pained whine, Kaito rushed out, “Moon, moon, fuck.”

And Shuichi stopped. “Yes?”

“I need you to slow down. I need you to stop. You don’t understand, you don’t-”

“Are you always going to be like this, Kaito?” Shuichi asked. “Me and Kokichi never stop you when it hurts.”

And Kaito’s eyes widened, and he swallowed hard, and he said sorry, sorry, I’ll be better, and Shuichi just nodded, and then he kept going, and even though nothing felt better Kaito couldn’t bring himself to say moon again.

Shuichi almost came close to finishing this time, but it had gotten to be too much and Kaito kicked Shuichi’s hip, and as Shuichi hissed, Kaito had said, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, oh my god, I’m sorry, are you okay?” and Shuichi had sighed, realizing he had pushed too hard that night, and he said they could stop tonight.

“But, you kicked me, Kaito. So, tomorrow, maybe we should do something to pin your legs?”

“I...I think we should stop doing this.” Kaito admitted,still horrified he had kicked his pregnant boyfriend. He hadn’t been able to help himself. He had panicked.

Shuichi frowned, leaned into Kaito, and said, “We stop when I say we stop. Remember?”

“We’ll try again tomorrow.”

The next morning, Kokichi felt like he could barely move his jaw. Like his mouth was full of rocks. He thought about...just taking another painkiller and slogging through the day but…

...this wasn’t just a regular headache. 

Shuuichi had still been in bed when Kokichi woke up, Kaito already off to training like he had been the rest of the week, and...tentatively, Kokichi tugged on his boyfriend’s sleeve. 

“Shuu-chan...I think something’s wrong…”

Shuichi had a brief, guilty moment where he thought ‘Kokichi knows.’

But as he opened his eyes, he saw Kokichi look at him with a tired, pained expression, and Shuichi realized it was something else, Kokichi looking like he was in physical pain. Sitting up, he immediately placed his palm against Kokichi’s forehead. It was a little warm. He wasn’t sure if it was a full on fever, but Kokichi’s face was tense and red, like the muscles in his face were being put under pressure.

“...Let me take you to the healers.” Shuichi said, getting up to put his shoes on, content to go in their pajamas, “Come on, Kokichi. Take my arm…”

There had been a hubbub, maybe more than there would’ve been, since Kokichi had stopped by the day before. He was ushered off to an examination room, looked at with worried expressions as he avoided looking at Shuuichi, explaining that he’d had a headache for the past few days. Thought it was a combination of a tension and stress headache from clenching his jaw and...yanno, stress. How his husband had given him a shoulder massage, and he just figured it was residual. And then how he just thought he was unlucky, and the headache just wanted to stick around for a few days.

How his jaw and mouth had steadily hurt more and more with each day.

With some exasperation--a few older healers grumbling that this was why they should’ve just gone through with an inspection the day before, even when the prince brushed it aside--his shoulders and neck and jaw were inspected, Kokichi flinching a little when they got to his jaw. And, after a bit of a conference, they looked inside his mouth and…

Well, the resident DDS wasn’t going to be in ‘til the afternoon, but it didn’t look like Kokichi had any cavities!!

But the gums at the back of his mouth were incredibly inflamed, and a younger healer remarked that it looked just like right before their cousin got their wisdom teeth extracted…

Kokichi’s eyes went wide in fear.

Going through examinations and treatments was one thing. 

Going through surgery was another. 

Shuichi blinked in surprise. Kokichi still had his wisdom teeth in? He wondered why they hadn’t taken it out before they had started growing. In Luminary, you usually went ahead and got those suckers drilled out by eighteen…

Oh well. Maybe Diceans waited for them to grow. Or maybe Kokichi had just not been super looking forward too… Shuichi frowned. Looking over at his boyfriend, who looked...pale on the examining table.

Reaching out to take Kokichi’s hand, as the healers went looking for appointment dates, he said, “Hey...are you okay?”

“I don’t want to go into surgery.” Kokichi spoke quickly, despite the pain in his mouth, his voice hushed as if he was afraid of drawing too much attention. His pupils just pinpricks of fear, his eyes look far too purple. “Please, Shuu-chan is a genius… I don’t want to. There’s another way, right?”

“Um…” Shuichi gave Kokichi a tired smile. “Go through crushing pain while all of your teeth shatter against each other while you’re awake and going about your day?”

If it were even possible, Kokichi went even more pale, starting to tremble slightly as his eyes started to fill with frightened tears. 

He knew that most surgeries were really safe. That they saved people’s lives and saved them a lot of pain. 

But they also usually involved cutting into a person’s body and trying to do what they needed to before the person bled out. Which was a much shorter time span with much more severe consequences for Kokichi. 

Kokichi started to sniffle, little whimpers getting stuck in his throat.

Shuichi sighed softly, realizing that had been unkind. Standing up from his chair, he went over to give Kokichi a hug, pulling him close. “I’m sorry… why are you scared? Talk it out to me.”

Kokichi started to go to hide his face in Shuuichi’s shoulder, but he quickly ended that plan, any amount of pressure against his jaw just sending sparks of pain through his head. Instead, Kokichi just squeezed his eyes shut as he held Shuuichi tightly. “I’ll die…” 

“I-it’s really dangerous for me to bleed, and it takes so long to stop once it starts, and surgery’s where they cut into you a-and even if they can keep other people from bleeding out I’m a fringe case and nothing ever goes right with medicine for me unless it’s special made a-and it’s scary! I’m scared! I don’t wanna do it!”

Shuichi froze. 

He uh...he didn’t know what to do. 

This wasn’t the version of Kokichi he usually had to deal with. This was the side of Kokichi Kaito dealt with. Shit, where was Kaito?? Shuichi looked around warily feeling panic start to buzz through him. If he couldn’t get Kokichi to calm down, would these people hurt him? No, no, but...maybe. Shit. Shit. 

Would...logic help? Petting Kokichi’s hair, Shuichi said quickly, “Y-you’re not going to die, Kokichi. These people have been taking care of you your whole life, and its wisdom teeth. They knew this was coming eventually. I’m sure they’ve already made medicine that would work for this...and it’s not a lot of blood...it’s just pulling a few teeth from your gums…”

Somewhere, Kokichi knew that. And sure, some people just didn’t have wisdom teeth, or the teeth grew in normally so they didn’t have to be taken out, but the majority of people still had to get them out at one point or another. It wasn’t a surprise. 

But knowing all that didn’t help the sheer terror that consumed him at the mention of surgery. 

Kokichi just whined through his tears, something high-pitched and afraid as he tried to just...press his forehead against Shuuichi’s shoulder, wanting to bury himself in the comfort of his boyfriend while not exacerbating the pain in his jaw. 

“For most p-people! It’s always more blood for me! A-and there’s no many ways things could go wrong...the - the mouth is one of the most imp-portant health centers, if something goes wrong with it, then the rest of your health goes down the drain and you’re in a ton of pain until you diiiiiiie!!”

“Shhhh, shhhhh!” Shuichi shushed, every time Kokichi shouted another layer of anxiety coating over Shuichi. Should they hide? Maybe they should hide. When Shuichi had his panic attacks, he preferred to not be in public. Was Kokichi having a panic attack? What was this??

Come on, Shuichi, what would Kaito do??

(Well, he wouldn’t trick either of them into sexual torture for three days in a row.)

(NOT NOW, CONSCIOUS. THAT’S NOT HELPING!)

Patting Kokichi’s back, he said, “It’ll be fine… you don’t have to be scared. Me and Kaito will be with you every step of the way, and we’ll talk to Seiko, and she’ll tell us what we need to worry about, if anything. You don’t have to be afraid, Kokichi. Everyone’s here for you…”

And then, because he was still thinking in terms of what might make him feel better, Shuichi said, “Do you want to...sit in the closet for awhile? We can go sit in the closet for awhile...till you feel better?”

That helped more. 

It was...a little harder to be scared, thinking of all his friends, including his doctor friend who was committed to his health, who specifically created a medicine just for his specific needs. He… He wasn’t going to die alone, cut into on a medical table somewhere, feeling cold and exposed. His friends were there, and...they wouldn’t let him die. 

Still Kokichi sniffled and shook against Shuuichi, nodding into his shoulder. 

...he’d avoided the closet for a long time. Not wanting to worry anyone. But if Shuuichi was with him… 

“P-please…”

It was Maki who made Kaito head back upstairs, looking for Shuichi. Normally she’d go herself, but Kaito wasn’t feeling well and was more supervising the training from the sidelines than being involved, so “If you’re just going to stand there uselessly anyway, go fetch the other one. You two can slowly walk the courtyard together.”

Kaito had laughed goodnaturedly at that, and was only a little out of breath and red in the face when he finally got to their floor, taking a moment to collect himself before walking into the room, calling out a tired- “Shuichi? You still in bed bud…”

Kaito froze.

He could hear crying.

Swallowing hard, preparing himself for whatever this was going to be, Kaito headed to the closet, reaching for the knob, but then hesitating...and knocking instead.

“...’Kichi? Can I come in?”

It was hard to find a position to tuck himself against Shuuichi without hurting himself, but once Kokichi found one, he stayed there, softly crying out his fears over getting his wisdom teeth out. There wasn’t much more to say, in terms of comfort. It would be okay but...for now, Kokichi was still very afraid, and just...needed to get this out. 

...he didn’t really want Kaito to see him like this, but...Kaito was comforting. And anything or anyone that was wasn’t anything Kokichi could deny himself right now. So, regretfully untucking himself, Kokichi shakily reached up for the handle of the closet door, just clicking it open and nudging the door before he returned to his spot, too caught in sniffles to explain much, at least not without hurting his mouth even more. 

“K-Kai-chan…”

“Oh, ‘Kichi.” Kaito said, giving his husband a concerned look, glancing over at Shuichi, who just gave him a tired nod. Heading over quickly, a few steps, he stopped, before going back, closing the door again. Kokichi had had it closed before, maybe it was a comfort thing. Then, squeezing in (the closet was big, but three men sitting together in it was still a little snug), Kaito knelt down, looking Kokichi up and down as he reached over, running his thumb under Kokichi’s eyes as he place a hand on his shoulder, “Are you hurt? What’s happened?”

“He’s in a little bit of pain, but that’s not really what this is about.” Shuichi sighed, so fucking...relieved Kaito was here… “He has to get his wisdom teeth taken out. He’s worried about the surgery.”

Kaito frowned at that, giving Kokichi a worried look, before grinning. “Aw...well shit, yeah. Surgery’s always fucking nerve wracking. That’s alright...where’s smug rabbit? If we’re doing closet time, we might as well add that little shit to the mix.” Kaito said, looking around for the white box.

Kokichi whimpered quietly, almost a confusing reaction to the relief and comfort Kaito’s touch brought. But...it was enough for him to start to calm down a little, and by the time Shuuichi had explained the situation and Kaito absorbed it, he could point to the box he kept his rabbit in, taking a breath to explain a little more. 

“The dentist’s comin’ this afternoon to get a proper look… But...if I a-actually… *hic* Need surgery? I-I’ll have to go to the hospital… Already they’re tryin’ to schedule stuff…”

And once he calmed down more, it would bum Kokichi out more. His jaws hurt. A lot. Enough that it had made him tell Shuuichi that morning, kicking this whole thing off. But especially with the special precautions they’d need for his case, it’d likely be a few days before he could get into surgery. A few very painful days.

(And then, of course, the recovery, which Kokichi didn’t know too much about, but was sure to be miserable no matter what it turned out to be.)

With a small grunt, Kaito stood back up, heading to the back of the closet where Smug Rabbit lay dormant. Finding the clean, white box, he opened it up, and glared at his arch-nemesis. 

Alright, you bastard. It was time to validate your existence. 

Carefully taking the rabbit out of the box, Kaito brought it back to Kokichi, passing it onto his lap, before sitting next to Shuichi, knee to knee, not wanting to pull Kokichi off of Shuichi’s lap and into his own, but still wanting to be close. His whole lower body ached at the movement, but, eh...whatever. Kaito could handle it. 

“Alright, the hospital...well, that’s not going to be for very long, okay? We’re not going any sooner than they need you, and the second they say you’re good? We’re coming right back here. We’ll take care of you, ‘Kichi.” Kaito grinned, reaching over to rub some soothing fingers on the back of Kokichi’s neck as his husband leaned against Shuichi, who held him, watching Kaito and trying to allow him to do ‘his thing’ while still being a presence. “And, while you’re at the hospital? I’m not going anywhere. I’m gonna be right there, okay, I won’t leave you for a second. If they gotta take you to another room, I’ll be right at the door, waiting, alright? I’ve got you, babe...and we’ll talk to Seiko-”

“I already said that to him.” Shuichi sighed. “Actually, it might be a good idea for one of us to go get her soon, actually.”

“Damn. I was just there yesterday. She’s doing really well, by the way! Her shop was hopping!” Kaito said cheerfully, grinning at Kokichi, “Seiko’s so impressive...and she’s not going to let anything happen to you. We have the best healer around, who cares about you so damn much… you’re going to be just fine, babe. It’s gonna go great!”

Kokichi reached out for his stuffed bunny, taking it up into his arms and holding it close. It was always comforting to hold something like it… And the rabbit was small enough that, without trying to hide his face in it, it didn’t touch his jaw and provoke more pain. 

And...the pain was slowly starting to become the worst of it, really. As Kaito just...laid out a plan for what was going to happen. Made promises that he could keep, ones that meant everything to Kokichi, about staying with him and...not having him be stuck in some room that smelled like antiseptic and was filled with tools. 

Slowly, Kokichi cries came down to shuddered breaths and sniffles, just taking comfort in his partners around him. Carefully wiping his eyes, he nodded. “...promise?”

“...I’m glad that business was good yesterday… She was in the paper. I didn’t think it’d cause...like, a boom so quickly, but...that’s really cool.” An unsteady breath, but Kokichi nosed against Shuuichi’s neck. “...thanks for dealing with me. I’m sorry if I scared Shuu-chan.”

“Promise! Everything’s going to be fine.” Kaito promised, giving Kokichi a reassuring grin. “We’ve got you.”

“...that’s alright, Kokichi…” Shuichi said quietly, kissing the top of his boyfriends forehead as gently as he could, trying not to jostle him...before looking over at Kaito, tired. “How do you do that?”

Kaito blinked. “Do what?”

“...nevermind.” Shuichi said, feeling a wave of guilt run through him. He had wanted to say ‘get people to believe you’ but...it was easy to believe Kaito. He usually believed what he was saying. It was hard not to believe someone who, at the very least, believed his own bullshit. 

...Kaito looked tired…

“Maybe I should go ask Maki to get Seiko. Kaito, why don’t you sit with Kokichi?” Shuichi suggested, not wanting to send Kaito back down all those stairs. Not really...feeling great about his choices lately. 

Kaito shrugged. “Sure. Babe, you up to moving? Come here…” Kaito said, opening up his arms.

Kokichi sniffled again, rubbing at his eyes, then gently under his nose before carefully crawling out of Shuuichi’s lap and into Kaito’s, trying to find that golden position that didn’t hurt as much. “Thanks, Shuu-chan… For everything.”

Sighing, Kokichi bopped his forehead against Kaito’s chest, the slight rattle in his head at least different from the ache. “...you know this’ll mean no kisses for a while.”

“What? Nooooooo!” Kaito groaned, as Shuichi closed the closet door behind him. “Kokichiiiii. We have to get you well! This is unacceptable!”

Kaito thumped his head on the back of the closet wall in despair...before sighing. “Alright. Guess I’ll just have to do this shit a lot.” Kaito decided, taking up Kokichi’s arm and carefully, kissing his hand, then his wrist, then up his arm… “Mmmm.” He hummed, “That’s not so bad. All of Kokichi feels pretty good…alright. You can deny me face kisses a little bit, I guess. Just so long as I get all the arm and chest and stomach kisses I want.”

Kokichi huffed something of a laugh before the pain made him grimace. “Fiiiiiine… Just ‘cause I like em too. But it still sucks that I can’t kiss you.”

He cupped Kaito’s cheek for a moment, just wanting to convey that affection before he dropped his arm to snuggle back against Kaito. He sighed a bit, still hugging his rabbit close as he wiped his eyes again. “...feels like my mouth’s full of rocks or something… Healers got all pissy ‘cause I’ve been having this headache for days… ‘scuse me for thinking it was a regular headache, that I do get sometimes, instead of knowing exactly it’s cause teeth I never think about are doing weird shit… Unngh…”

“...you think if I take a painkiller now, I’ll be focused enough to see the dentist this afternoon? The ones I took yesterday made me kinda drowsy…”

“Ah, geez, have you been hurting the last few days? I’m sorry, ‘Kichi, I didn’t pick up on it…” Kaito sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Well, let them whine. You don’t have to run to the healers every time anything aches. But, in the future? Maybe tell us if something hurts for a while? At least that way you’ve got an outside perspective, to tell you if that’s worth looking at. I mean, I’d have probably agreed with you that it was fine, but Shuichi’s a smarty-pants, he might have guessed what was up.” Kaito shrugged.

Then he asked, “What kind of painkillers do you take? I got some over the counter stuff yesterday. Nothing terribly strong, but it might take the edge off without wearing you down. Do you wanna try it?”

“S’okay… I was tryin’ not to make a big deal out of it--if I’m hiding something, or in this case, just not drawing attention, then it’s ridiculous to expect that you’d know. Sometimes people figure that stuff out, but it’s an exception, not a rule.” He sighed before nodding a bit. It was...probably dumb to not even mention that he wasn’t feeling tops. “Okay… I’ll be better about it.”

Another sigh. “I can’t take anything with acetylsalicylic acid in it. Thins blood out, and that no do goo for me. But other types of painkillers I seem to be alright with. If it’s one of those...might as well give it a try...if you don’t mind sharin’.”

Kokichi looked up, a concerned look in his eye. “...did your cold turn into something else? I know sometimes coughing a bunch can leave ya achy after you’re good, but...I didn’t hear you coughing that much. Are you okay?”

“I have… literally never heard the word ‘asetasaldyadiuam’ before just now. I have no idea if my painkillers have it.” Kaito mused, entirely butchering the word as he tried to repeat it. Gently kissing the top of Kokichi’s head, lightly rubbing his back, he said, “I’ll go nab it and bring it in here, we’ll read the ingredients. Maybe we’ll get lucky?”

...cold?

Oh! Right! 

...Kaito chuckled, his face reddening in mild embarrassment as he glanced at the door. “Errr… actually, ya know what? About that?”

Shuichi had been worried about Kokichi knowing, but Kaito suspected Kokichi would be more upset to find out later that they were going out of their way to lie to him, and it really wasn’t that big a deal… he laughed again, giving Kokichi a wink. “I have a sexy secret. The sexiest of secrets. And I’ll tell ya if you promise not to overthink it.”

Kokichi snorted softly, though without derision. It was a hard word, and Kokichi knew that he’d butchered it far more when he was first learning about it. He wasn’t on the way to a pharmaceutical degree or anything, but for more common things, like painkillers, some healers over the years had taught him a few things to look out for. Until recently, there hadn’t been much of a fear that he’d be stuck somewhere outside of the castle and would need some sort of medicine but...just in case. 

Allowing Kaito to get up, Kokichi got out of his lap, filling the spot that Shuuichi had left until his husband returned, though...there was something new to talk about too, apparently. 

Kokichi raised an eyebrow but nodded. “Promise. I might start to, but just tell me to get out of my head, alright? And I’ll drop it.”

“Kay. Let me grab the painkillers first. Give me a second.” Kaito said, bracing himself against the wall and, with a small grunt, getting up, heading out to the bathroom. Looking under the sink, he eyed the anal relaxant, thinking to himself  he definitely had to go a second round with that bad boy today, before laughing slightly at himself, grabbing the painkillers.

Heading back to the closet, he was reading the ingredients with a small frown, murmuring, “There are a...lot of words here...here, babe, you might have an easier time reading them. One second, one second,” Kaito said, putting his back against the wall and then sliding down, catching his fall with his arms before settling in, a small sigh before grinning at Kokichi. “Alright! Get back here, babe, I missed you!”

As Kokichi settled back in, Kaito adoringly pressed little kisses to his skull, rubbing his hands up and down his arms as he whispered, “Awwwww, my poor ‘Kichi...everything’s gonna be okay. It’s gonna maybe be a rougher week than usual, but you’re gonna be just fine...we’re gonna finish the circle world book if you’re stuck in bed for a while, kay? I’m so curious how they’re going to manage to get out of the pit. Like, by this point, they can’t get out themselves, someone has to rescue them, right? But who would bother by this point, everyones turned against them...it’s exciting! We’ll read all about it, it’ll be fun…”

“Okay! Sexy secret! Sexiest of secrets!” Kaito chuckled, before smirking at Kokichi, looking entirely too pleased with himself. “...me and Shuichi are trying to figure out how to let him fuck me. We’ve been working on it for a little while now. Your husbands been getting dicked down by some prime piece of meat, Kokichi, let me tell ya.” he laughed, shaking his head, “It’s been wild.”

Kokichi watched his husband leave with...some concern. Trying not to overthink it. (But...if it hadn’t been a cold… Kaito certainly wasn’t doing well…) Still, he happily went back into his husband’s lap when he returned, appreciating the kisses and assurances as he read the medicine label in the dim light of their closet. And...it looked like it was acetaminophen. Safe for him to take. 

Double checking the dosage instructions, Kokichi dry swallowed one of the tablets, grimacing a bit at the feeling before he blinked up wide at Kaito. “No way. There’s… Even if one day you could fit Shuu-chan, that day shouldn’t be any time soon! Don’t things like this take time? Like...working up to it? Slowly going bigger and giving yourself time to adjust?”

It was easy to hear the rest of the questions on Kokichi’s tongue, but he cut himself off with a sigh, covering his eyes with a hand. 

“...sorry. No overthinking. Even though needing painkillers worries me… Kai-chan knows what he’s doing. If you’re okay with how you guys are doing it, then I’ll trust you to be safe.”

Another breath before Kokichi dragged his hand down his face, avoiding the lower half, and he peeked up through a slight blush, something...excited in his gaze. “...you’re really making it happen?”

Kaito laughed, shrugging, before saying, “Kinda? I mean, yes. But not really yet. Here, can I actually see some of those? Fuck, those stairs ruin lives.” Kaito sighed, taking the pain killer bottle and popping some himself, sighing as he swallowed it down. “And yeah, we...probably should be doing it differently, honestly? Actually, we’re doing it super, super wrong. Like, I knoooow how to do this. I do! I just…”

Kaito sighed, scratching his chin, “I don’t know. Shuichi’s kinda trying to work out how to do it himself? And there’s a part of me that really doesn’t want to discourage him. You should see it, Kokichi, you’d be so proud! He’s gotten so….like, confident! And like, just really assertive in what he wants and stuff! It’s been incredible! I really, really don’t want to snuff it out, whatever this like… bout of determination is coming from, ya know? And he gets so nervous every time I try to suggest another way of doing… like he thinks he’s doing something wrong, or something.”

“So, ya know, we’re doing it kind of the harder way, but if it improves his self-esteem? Fuck, I can handle a few aches and pains.” Kaito shrugged, “And we’ll get there eventually. We got to the point where he could move inside of me, a little bit, yesterday! Slowly but surely.” Kaito laughed. Then, his grin sharpening, he said, “I told him I want to put on a show for you, whenever we finally manage to do that. That be something you’d find sexy, beautiful? We could make that a treat, after you do all this shitty teeth stuff.” Kaito teased, kissing at Kokichi’s ear.

Kokichi furrowed his brow a bit, and before he could stop himself- “But isn’t encouraging him to do it wrong just as damaging? He shouldn’t be confident if it’s hurting you.”

And, again, he sighed and hit the bunny’s head against his own. “Sorry. I trust you guys. And if Shuu-chan’s feeling more comfortable, that’s a good thing. It’s just...worrying, seeing you so hurt that you need to get painkillers and… I wish you hadn’t said it was a cold. I wish I’d noticed that you were hurt earlier… But it’s hard to notice what people are actively hiding from you…” He huffed at himself, seeing the mirror clearly. 

Kokichi blushed a bit more hearing that Kaito and Shuuichi wanted to “put on a show”, never really one to find, like...strip clubs, or anything like that very enticing, but the thought of his lovers enjoying each other? Of Kaito getting to take in The Beast, of Shuuichi enjoying the feeling of being on top like that? 

His face burned. 

“D-don’t take my teeth as a deadline or anything!” he insisted, the fluster apparent in his voice. “It takes as long as it takes! But...I-I mean… Of course seeing Kai-chan and Shuu-chan happy with each other would make me happy…”

“Aw, I’m sorry, babe, I just didn’t want to worry you.” Kaito sighed, hugging Kokichi to himself in apology, “And, I’m probably gonna ask Shuichi for a break tonight anyway. Let myself heal up a little. It’s alright, we’re being safe. Just some things are gonna ache a little, that’s all.” Kaito chuckled.

“And, fiiiine, we won’t take your teeth as a time limit. But it’d be super great if that’s how it ended up working out, right? You’re just about done with your recovery, leaning back on your pillows, watching Shuichi get that focused, determined look on his face, while your Kaito’s all shuddering and overwhelmed and happy… and then, when we’re all done, we turn our attention on our Kokichi, who’s been so patiently watching us, and doesn’t he deserve a little relief...?” Kaito teased, breathing hotly into Kokichi’s ear as he spoke low, before kissing softly at the shell…

Then he laughed again, pulling back. “It’s a fun problem to have. But, yeah, I figured I should tell you, in case I get worse before I get better. Nothings wrong with me. We’re just experimenting. Kay?”

Kaito being in pain was something worth worrying about, but...he got it. And he was glad that Kaito decided to tell him now. There probably wasn’t much Kokichi could do for him, but...well, he’d be looking for it now. And if anything popped up, he’d be ready to help however he could. 

Kokichi snorted softly, flushing redder before he tilted his head against Kaito’s, and...while he worried about how “worse” things could get while they were still being safe and smart about things… 

“Okay. I trust you guys.”

They stayed in the closet for awhile, Kokichi largely calmed down and Kaito rambling about whatever was on his mind, and after some time, it was Maki who came up to fetch them, saying she had gone down to the pharmacy and told Seiko to get to the castle that afternoon to sit in on the dental thing. She had then glared at Kokichi, and said, “Also, the healers are saying you weren’t cooperative and that’s why this got so bad without anyone noticing...am I mad at them? Or am I mad you?”

“I vote them! The healers are kind of jerks.” Kaito decided, grinning at Maki’s skeptical eyebrow raise. “I know they’re just trying to do their jobs, but like… Kokichi’s not a plant or something they’re watering. They shouldn’t just expect him to hold still and be quiet every time they want him too. They want him to sit still for an observation? They should be ready to ask him permission and explain themselves to him first. He’s their prince, for fucks sake.” Kaito murmured, knowing that last bit didn’t….really matter, in Dicea, but like...still. Basic fucking curtesy. 

Maki, however, did not look convinced. She stared at Kokichi.

Kokichi sighed, pouting off to the side, though he couldn’t keep up any exaggerated expression. “I doubt a day’s that much of a difference, and no matter what we’re gonna have to wait longer… I thought it was a regular headache. People in the med ward practically throw me into a quarantine room if I so much as sneeze while I’m down there and...I didn’t want it to be a huge production when all I thought I needed were some painkillers.”

Another sigh, though Kokichi looked up at Maki, squinting a bit in the mid-morning light after crying in the closet for so long. Just...open for her judgement. “Maybe we all could’ve been more transparent, but it’s done now, and we’ll find out for sure this afternoon.”

While most of Kokichi’s fears had been soothed, surgery was still very much something he feared, and a glimmer of what he’d been panicking over all morning showed in the vulnerability of his face. “...would Maki-chan come to the hospital too, when it’s time?”

Maki stared him at him blankly for a moment.

“Tell me too.” She ordered.

Kaito sighed. “Maki...maybe now isn’t the time for one of your tough love lessons-”

“Shut up, Kaito. I’m doing a thing.” Maki said.

Kokichi looked up at Maki, tired and a little annoyed, but...at least she hadn’t told him to order her. Not like last time. 

“...hospitals are usually super safe, and they take security clearance seriously. However...i-if I go into surgery...I’m still gonna be in a vulnerable state left unable to defend myself against anything. As my head of security, it’s under your reasonable duties to accompany me into those kinds of areas and situations.”

He let out a breath. “...and you’re my friend, and this really freaks me out, and I’d feel better with you there.” 

“Mmmm...better than last time, anyway.” Maki admitted, leaning against the wall, giving Kokichi a somewhat softer look as she said, “Of course I’ll come, Kokichi. Because I am your friend and hospitals are fucking awful. And also all that other stuff.”

Then her face hardened, and she said, “And if you sneezed in medical, and they tried to lock you away into quarantine over something you’re confident is nothing? What do you say then?”

“Stop’, then they’d say it’s just a precaution and go through with it anyway…” he grumbled. -

“And that’s when you order them to stop.” Maki suddenly growled. A heat of anger running through her blood eyes. “And if they keep going, that’s when you get all the people sworn to your safety and sworn to your authority and you show them that you are not some child to be controlled.” 

“You are these people’s leader, Kokichi. You have to be willing to lead without permission, sometimes. You have to be willing to insist, when you are confident you are right. Leading is literally your job.” Maki said… before sighing. “You’re an authority. You have to be willing to flex those muscles when it’s necessary. And taking responsibility for how you are treated is necessary.”

Kokichi’s eyes snapped up to Maki’s in surprise, a little...shocked, though he really shouldn’t be. Not with everything he knew about Maki. And...she did have a point… He sighed, grimacing for a moment before it became too painful, and smoothed his bangs out of his face. 

“...there is no leading without permission. The reason anyone can lead is because it’s with the consent of the led. But…” He pouted a bit. “...I can...try to be more...adamant. Aggressive about it.”

There was a quiet moment, a flash of hurt in amethyst pools before it dulled, Kokichi tipping his head back on Kaito’s chest. “...I’d always been taught that ‘no’ is a complete sentence, you know? I still think it should be, but...some people need more. I should...account for that, instead of just figuring that if they refused my no then they’d refuse anything I’d say to explain it. Until they do take that face value ‘no’...I’ll explain more.”

“...at the very least it might buy time for people to rally with me,” he huffed. Unhappy with the circumstances, but stuck with them.

Maki laughed lightly at that, shrugging as she admitted, “If you have a hard time arguing yourself, surrounding yourself with people capable of doing it for you isn’t the worst strategy. Delegation.” she said, her whole body relaxing as she sat down in the closet with them.

Giving Kokichi a fond look, she said, “It sucks. I know. But aggression has its place in society. And there are worse things to be aggressive about than insisting on being treated well… if you don’t, you end up with a royal assassin whose willing to cut you all the time and tell you to shut up, and a royal detective who is only just slightly too polite to tell you you’re an idiot to your face.” Maki smirked, looking over at Kaito.

“Love you too, Maki-roll.” Kaito hummed, still rubbing Kokichi’s back lightly trying to be a nicer presence while Maki did her aggressive act of devotion to his poor, sweet husband. “How we feeling, babe? The painkiller kicking in at all?”

Kokichi huffed a laugh, not feeling bad at this joke at his husband’s expense since it was a relationship Kaito treasured. But...well. He needed to be nicer to himself, and not in the way that was just enabling his misery. He still hadn’t picked out a therapist but...well, one had mentioned something like that. It was hard but things worth doing often were. 

“Mm...mhhm,” Kokichi hummed, shrugging a little. “It doesn’t hurt as much, so I guess that’s it kicking in. Trust me...if it really is my wisdom teeth and we have to wait for the surgery to be scheduled and suited for me and all that? Please call me out for bein’ a grumpy jerk, ‘cause that’s what I’ll be.”

After a moment, he turned to pout up at Kaito. “...and you’re gonna laugh and think it’s so cute when my mouth gets all swollen afterward, aren’t you.”

“If Dicean medicine is like ours, they’re gonna put a lot of cotton in your mouth afterwards. And yes, I will one hundred percent be giggling like an asshole while I challenge you to say tricky words around it.” Kaito laughed.

“I wonder if they do laughing gas here? Man...that was a weird day.” Maki mused.

“You almost killed us, when you sobered up” Kaito remembered, grinning fondly.

“You deserved it. You made me meow like a cat. I might kill you now for it. Don’t test me.”

Kokichi rolled his eyes a bit but...well, at least one of them would have fun with it. He hoped that Maki managed to have fun when it had been Kaito’s turn, if he’d even had his wisdom teeth out. “I don’t know about...laughing gas? But I know there are two kinds of anesthesia for stuff like this. One that knocks you out completely, which I’m really hoping I can take, or stuff that just numbs you and makes you kinda loopy.”

Shaking his head a little, Kokichi leaned over towards Maki a little, curious. “You’ve gotten your wisdom teeth out, though? It...it’s not that bad, right?”

Maki shrugged. “I didn’t think so. It’s annoying, but the recovery process was quick, and the surgery itself only took...maybe an hour? Two maybe. Ugh, then I had to find my way back to the castle.”

Kokichi’s brow furrowed. “...you went into surgery by yourself?”

“If you’re an Indentured, you don’t really get a heads up on when your appointments are. I found out I was going in to get my wisdom teeth removed at noon when I checked in with my mentor at five that morning.” Maki remembered, “So I had to leave school early to go to the dentist, and then back to my room in the castle while Kaito and Shuichi and anyone else who could give me a hand were still in class.”

“We went to go check on her once school was out though.” Kaito shrugged lightly.

“You went to go make a fool of me while I was still high and loopy on pain medication, is what you did.” Maki pouted.

“Poor Shuichi had to go back to class after his. You remember that? The guy fell asleep at his desk and some asshole drew all over his super puffy face.”

“You drew all over his face.”

“Yeah.” Kaito said, “Some asshole. Where is he anyway?”

“He said he was going to get Kokichi some honey tea. I guess it’s supposed to ease tooth pain.” Maki shrugged.

Kokichi very nearly started to clench his jaw again, but even his continued anger at the program wasn’t enough to bear the pain that spiked through his head, causing Kokichi to flinch lightly. But, maybe because of that, his mind wasn’t free to echo to itself about how bullshit it all was, and instead he just...listened to his friends. 

“You and Shuu-chan both...huh.” Well, at least they knew what to expect then. 

Smiling at bit, Kokichi cuddled back into Kaito’s arms. “Aw, Shuu-chan. Each of my boys givin’ me shit to help this stupid ache.” While a little cutesy and loving, Kokichi’s tone dropped into just...tired thankfulness. “I know he said it was alright but...I still feel bad about freaking out on him. Guess it’s just gonna be one of those trades we gotta live with. And I’ll...try not to lose my head next time.”

Not that he’d done it on purpose this time. It had just...caught him off guard, and all the fears came rushing in. 

“It’s alright babe. Shuichi gets panic attacks, you have blood phobias, and I am entirely fearless and brave, all the time.” Kaito said sagely, patting Kokichi on the back lightly.

“Kaito, who’s that pale person above your head?” Maki asked, staring just above Kaito. 

“Shut up, Maki! I’m not gonna fall for that!”

“She doesn’t have any pupils… I think I can see the wall through her.”

“No you can’t!”

The side of Kokichi’s mouth quirked, but it wasn’t much of an expression before he sighed, peeking up over Kaito’s head. “Sorry, he doesn’t like ghosts much. I know there are plenty of people to play with upstairs if that’s what you were looking for though!”

Already Kokichi was preparing himself for a miserable stretch without kisses, so he simply touched his nose against Kaito’s cheek. “Very brave, very fearless Kai-chan. What would we do without you.”

Kaito paled, starting to sweat, “Stop it! You’re not talking to anyone, I know that, okay? Ghosts don’t exist!”

And then, entirely unable to help himself, Kaito worriedly looked over his shoulder, and somehow seeing absolutely nothing there made him feel no better at all. 

Kaito gave Kokichi a pathetic look as his husband comforted him, and as Maki smirked at them both, the closet door opened, a warm scent of honey filling the air as Shuichi walked in, looking around at the increasingly crowded space, before sighing, sitting down next to Maki as he passed Kokichi the mug of tea. “So, we’re chilling in the closet today?”

“Why not. It’s a nice enough closet. You can really see the lack of thought Kokichi put into his clothes. There are literally no sets in here.” Maki said, looking at Kokichi’s mish-mash of clothes.

“Sure, meanwhile, Kaito’s side looks like the store is still trying to sell them.” Shuichi teased, looking at the even displays of shirt, jacket, pant, all put together in ways that suggested they were complete outfits.

Somehow Kokichi managed to hold his giggles in, but it was much easier when the closet door opened once again and he involuntarily took a deep breath, enjoying the smell of honey tea. It was really thoughtful of Shuuichi to go get it… He did appreciate the comfort his boyfriend had given him, and...well, if he ever asked about it, Kokichi would say the truth--Shuuichi had gotten him to a point he could calm down, so by the time Kaito came by, it was easier to accept his reassurance. 

There wasn’t a need to compensate more with the tea, but Kokichi was still happy for it. 

Breathing in the sweet scent, Kokichi rolled his eyes a little, huffing. “I put plenty of thought into the clothes other people buy me. And you guys keep saying that--’sets’. An outfit just happens to be the clothes you’re wearing together at any given time. Buying them in specific patterns is just limiting yourself to all the different combinations you can try.”

“If you like everything you have, then everything will look nice when you wear them,” he said decisively, as non-fashion-minded as ever, blowing on the mug for a moment before taking a careful sip. 

“I want to make fun of you, but honestly? Now that I’m not basing my outfits on how to murder people most effectively, I mostly just throw anything on that feel comfortable that day.” Maki admitted, looking down at her black jacket and red dress, clapping her black boots together. 

“And yet, you still look amazing.” Kaito said, with a long suffering sigh, “All of my friends are so, so damn pretty. It’s just not fair. I have to work so hard to keep up with you all.”

Shuichi rolled his eyes, “I’m a pear in stiff, black suits. Yeah, I’m sure I’m stunning.”

“I will...lose my god damn mind if you suggest to me for a second that you don’t know what you look like.” Kaito said, bumping his head against the back wall and staring at the ceiling, “Like...I will lose it….”

“Yupp!” Kokichi chirped, his smile bright and confident. “Shuu-chan is a total knockout!! Glad you can see it too. I’m really lucky that two of the most beautiful people I’ve ever seen agreed to date me.”

“And that a third agreed to be my friend,” he winked at Maki. 

Copying Kaito’s body language, Kokichi similarly bumped his head against his husband’s chest. “And you sell yourself short, hun. Whatever you wear, Kai-chan still looks amazing. I like how Kai-chan looks whether he’s been on bedrest and hasn’t even showered in a few days, or if he’s just spent two hours getting ready in the bathroom. You’re hot, deal with it.”

“Awwww, babe, thank you. Go on, tell me how handsome I am. I definitely need to hear it a few more times.” Kaito goaded, kissing the top of Kokchi’s head until his husband looked up, and then proceeding to kiss him on his forehead, smothering him in affection.

“Ugh...domestic.” Maki muttered.

“Don’t be jealous.” Shuichi said.

“Don’t be a brat.”

“Don’t be ugly.”

“Don’t be stupid.”

“Don’t be…” Shuichi thought about it, “Inefficient.”

“Do you wanna die!?”

“You won’t.”

“I will cut Kaito!”

“You’re bluffing.”

“Shuichi, come oooon, you know she’s not. Stop!” Kaito groaned, cringing away from Maki as she started shuffling towards him.

Shuichi laughed...and then something complicated ran through his face. “Sorry, sorry. Don’t do it, Maki, we’re just playing. Cutting him is taking it too far.”

Maki raised an eyebrow at that, before shrugging, settling back down. “Alright...as good as closet time is, Kokichi, let’s go get lunch before your dental appointment. Who knows if they’ll do something that won’t let you eat after.”

Kokichi’s snickers came out then, basking in the affection Kaito slathered onto him. He didn’t want to feed Kaito’s ego all the time, but indulging his husband every once in a while, complimenting him… It felt nice to do. Was a kind of “just being honest” moment that Kokichi liked to spring on people now and then. 

“Handsome, pretty, cute, breath-taking… I doubt there’s a synonym out there that has a connotation that wouldn’t be true about Kai-chan,” Kokichi started, though hearing Maki and Shuuichi bicker back and forth stole his attention, bringing out more laughs, as they...just acted like the siblings they were. 

But...life was always waiting.

With a groan, Kokichi carefully got up off of Kaito’s lap, keeping an eye on his mug so he wouldn’t spill it, and only shuffled forward a little, waiting for Kaito to ease his way up. “It’s gonna be the worst… I already hate going to the dentist normally...and now they’re gonna poke places that hurt and give me bad news, and then who knows how long I’m gonna be on a broth diet again after my teeth come out...uuuuuughhh…”

“Well, lucky you, Kokichi. You can get all that extra weight off you on a liquid diet. God knows you need it.” Maki teased, getting up as well. Shuichi followed her up, and looked down at Kaito, something worried in his gaze as Kaito grunted, starting to get up.

“Here, I’ve got you.” Shuichi muttered, offering Kaito a hand up, who grinned at him, accepting it. 

“Thanks handsome! Alright! Food time!” Kaito cheered.

The dental appointment went well...or, well, as well as it could go, for the circumstance. Kokichi had a minor freakout when the examiner explained to them exactly what was happening in his teeth, but it was Seiko this time who gently explained to him the precautions they would take for the surgery. She was confident, calm, only stuttered every third word, and it was incredibly reassuring by the time they were done.

The surgery was scheduled for two days later. Recovery from wisdom teeth surgery didn’t usually take more than two days altogether, but the healers advised Kokichi to expect a longer period than that, considering his conditions.

Beyond that, Kokichi was given some painkillers and anti-inflammatory toothpaste that tasted like straight up garbage that Kaito had to ‘remind’ Kokichi three times that night that he needed to use the new toothpaste, despite said ‘garbage’ issue.  

Then there was the fight over brushing his hair again (Kaito won) and the fight for the ‘coveted middle spot’ (Kokichi won) and then the three went to bed.

Kaito forgot to talk to Shuichi about taking a break that night.

And Shuichi… didn’t know how to feel today.

The last three days had been kinda easy. It had felt justified. He had a plan. And there were only two days left of the plan. Today, he was supposed to wake up Kaito and tonight was supposed to be particularly bad. Like, bad enough to get Kaito to really, really try to make them stop. And then, tomorrow, Shuichi would ‘negotiate’ by offering to take away the powerplay stuff, if Kaito would let him try again, and then he’d work really, really hard to make tomorrow feel as good as possible.

So… Kaito would associate all the bad stuff with the powerplay stuff.

...that was the plan…

...but Shuichi didn’t really wanna...make Kaito feel bad tonight.

He kinda felt shitty that he had made Kaito feel bad at all.

...he should stop. He didn’t feel good about this. He didn’t feel justified anymore.

He should go to sleep.

And thank fuck, he did.

Kokichi still hurt when he woke up the next morning, but it wasn’t a surprise at all. He was going to be in a moderate amount of pain until he’d recovered from his...his surgery. While said recovery was going to involve people helping him replace his mouth cotten every so often when they got saturated, and for the first few hours after he was through, he’d have to spit in a bowl instead of swallowing ‘cause he might swallow blood, and he couldn’t eat anything that required chewing for a few days, and his cheek were gonna be swollen and tender for...well, a few days at least… 

Still. He’d taken the day off before, so...he should try to get some work done today. The painkillers he’d been prescribed really helped. The toothpaste less so, at least in a short-term view, but he weathered it anyway, using several cups of water as mouthwash to try and get the taste away, at least until he could go down to breakfast. 

Like usual, Kaito was already gone before he’d woken up, but...he said that they were gonna take a break, and Kokichi trusted that. If Kaito said he was okay, Kokichi trusted him to take care of himself. So he just bade Shuuichi a good morning before heading down, gulping down juice to get his mouth not tasting like trash and...enjoying some eggs and toast while he still could. Enjoying the novelty of chewing. 

He’d apologized to Nayda for skipping out on work unexpectedly and explained the situation, to which she predictably rolled with and promised to be thinking of him while he recovered--thinking tangibly too, with a get well soon gift. Apparently it was common in her village to make procedures like getting your wisdom teeth out or getting your tonsils out to eat a lot of ice cream, the cold temperature numbing the agitated areas, while still being soft enough to eat easily. 

That perked him up quite a bit. 

While he got less done than the usual, Kokichi still felt drained after work, and after taking another round of painkillers, he headed back to his room to nap. 

It was Ikuo who woke him up later, asking if he was doing alright and fussing, but in his dadly way that Kokichi appreciated. Kokichi still didn’t feel like doing much so the two took to an old hobby, folding paper stars together, now placed in a cute little jar shaped like a star itself that Ikuo had found at the market the other day. 

And, shyly, Kokichi had whispered his new wish for this batch. 

Ikuo had taken his hand and said that he was pretty damn sure this one would come true. 

Kokichi made sure to eat stuff that wouldn’t get stuck in his teeth for dinner and…

...realized that he was going into surgery tomorrow. Had a mini-meltdown about it again. 

But it was okay, because he had his friends. He wasn’t going to be left with blood pooling in his mouth and holes in his jaw that’d get infected and bring him unimaginable pain before killing him. 

...he was going to be fine. 

“So, are we trying again tonight?” Kaito asked, giving Shuichi a curious look as they walked together through town. Shuichi having asked Kaito to take him somewhere after dropping Timothy off and getting back.

“...do you want too?” Shuichi asked, giving Kaito an openly baffled look.

Kaito shrugged. “Yeah, why not? I got some sleep the last two nights.”

“You’re still taking pain killers.”

“I still ache, yeah.”

“...then why are you okay with doing it tonight?”

“Cause we’re trying to work out how to let you fuck me, still? We came closer last time, but I think, next time, maybe if we brought the abomination with us?“

“The abomination...the vibrator?”

“Yeah! So, we take that with us, and after we do as much as the fingers let us, we use that guy as a sort of middle ground-”

“Kaito...I was hurting you.” Shuichi said quietly, “Why are you okay with that?”

“I mean, come on, Shuichi, we both knew it was gonna hurt.” Kaito laughed, before giving Shuichi a fond look as he said, “And we’ll figure out a way to not let it hurt. We just gotta keep at it.”

“...I don’t like hurting you.” Shuichi realized. “And I don’t like that you let me. That really bothers me.”

Kaito gave Shuichi a surprised look, before saying, “Hey, come on, bud, you couldn’t help-”

“You shouldn’t have let me tie you up. You knew I could hurt you and you wouldn’t be able to stop me. It bothers me that you let me do that.” Shuichi said. “I don’t like that. We...we shouldn’t hurt each other. None of us.”

Kaito gave Shuichi a concerned look...before sighing. “Okay, bud, I’m sorry.  I got real caught up in how excited I was that you wanted to try one of my kinks. I let it get to a bad extreme-”

“I’m not asking you to apologize! It’s not your fault! It’s not your fault that I I took advantage of the fact that I knew you wouldn’t say no! That’s not your fault!” Shuichi huffed, face red, so thankful no one was on this street with them...before saying quietly, “That’s not okay. That’s never okay. It’s not okay when I do it...it’s not okay when you do it. It’s not okay when she does it... It’s not okay. Even if it’s ‘to help’. It...it doesn’t. It just hurts...I’m sorry...”

There was silence, for awhile...before Kaito reached out to take Shuichi’s hand. Squeezing it gently as he asked, “Did Kokichi tell you?”

“...” Shuichi nodded.

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t. You already apologized to Kokichi. It’s not my place to ask for more.”

“I’m still sorry...are you mad?”

“...yeah.”

“Were you trying to punish me?”

“...I was trying to ‘fix’ you.” Shuichi muttered. “But I think, yeah… I was just trying to punish you. And...I think I was trying to feel strong. And….” Shuichi’s eyes wettened. He lowered his cap over them, “...I think I was trying to understand her a little.”

“Oh.” Kaito said quietly. “...do you? Did you learn anything from it?”

“I learned doing that to people feels fucking shitty after its done.” Shuichi cursed… before adding in quietly, “But not during it. It’s...kinda addicting while it’s happening.  And that's maybe how it gets as bad as it does.”

“...yeah.” Kaito said quietly. Squeezing Shuichi’s hand...before shrugging. “Well. Now we know.”

“Yeah.”

“And we won’t do it again?”

“Yeah.”

“Cool...perfect.” Kaito said, the two walking for awhile longer… before saying, “Oh! Is that why you were ignoring all my safe words and stuff?”

“Yeah?” Shuichi said, worried that Kaito had only just gotten that. 

“Oh thank fuck! I thought you were just a really, really selfish lover, dude. I’m so glad that was you doing it on purpose! I was worried that was just how sex was going to be from now on.” Kaito laughed, before lighting up, “Oh! If we’re not doing it for revenge reasons, can we try tying me up again someday? Now that I know it’s not gonna be like that every time!?”

“You’re so crazy…but yeah. If you want too? Okay.” Shuichi sighed, as they got to the grocery store, feeling the cool of the refrigerated areas as he sighed. “Alright….”

Shuichi glared at the store in determination. “Lets go get a shit ton of different ice creams, and then go take care of our partner.”

“Hell yeah!”

His surgery was scheduled for ten, so there wasn’t a huge hurry to get up and start the day. 

But when Maki called to wake Kaito and Shuuichi up, training still happening in the morning, of course, Kokichi found himself just...frozen. Lying in bed with a rock in his stomach, or maybe where his stomach used to be, and breaths that felt like they didn’t give him any air at all. 

They were supposed to get to the hospital at least a half hour before, go through another briefing of what to expect in recovery. And after it was done, he was supposed to rest for at least an hour or so just so the healers could make sure he wasn’t going to have any sort of reaction they hadn’t anticipated. 

...he didn’t like medical beds. They were comfortable, if on the more austere side, but...he had always hated them. 

Kokichi fisted the sheets under them, not even the pulsing ache in his jaws enough to spur him to get up. 

When the door opened, Kaito held it open for Timothy and Maki, who were both holding buckets of ice. Shuichi was olding tubs of ice cream, and Kaito was holding a bag of something. “Morning, Uncle Kokichi.” Timothy said, following Maki to put the buckets next to the far wall, both of them placing their downs. Then, as Maki went to go open up the curtains and crack open a window, letting in some fresh air and sunlight, Timothy went and leaned against the bed, looking up at Kokichi with serious, green eyes and said, “Can I have some of your ice cream when you get back?”

“Timothy. That’s a rude question. It’s not for you.” Maki said, as Shuichi went to put the tubs in the buckets, before going over to give Kokichi a small kiss to the forehead.

“Morning, Kokichi. Do you care what you wear today? I’m just gonna go put together something comfortable, if not.” Shuichi said, heading to the closet, as Kaito bounded forward next, grinning wide. 

“But, but! I know what you’re wearing tonight! Check it out, check it out, what do you think of… this guy!” Kaito said, pulling out a fluffy, black and white cat onesie, with a purple bow sewed around its neck and around its tail, “It’s adorable, right? Feel how soft it is! Ikou recommended it! I got one for all of us to change into when we get back!”

“I’m not wearing mine.” Maki said. 

“I got her a dragon one!” Kaito said proudly.

“Not wearing it.” She repeated, as she went to pick up their clothes from the ground, throwing it mostly into the hamper as she muttered, “Would you idiots pick up after yourself? Alright, which book was it you wanted to read aloud?”

“The one on its face on the third bookshelf. One of the circle world ones! Pass it over, Maki, I’ll leave it on the bed so it’s ready when we get here.” Kaito said, catching the book as she threw it, while Shuichi came out with some clothes, asking Kokichi with some uncertainty, “How about these? Do these work?”

“Can I have your teeth when they’re out?” Timothy asked, kicking his legs against the bed idly, “If you put teeth under your pillow at night, a demon buys it for a copper.” Timothy said. 

“That’s only if they’re your teeth, Tim.” Kaito frowned, taking his kid by the scruff of his shirt and pulling him off the bed, “and stop kicking. Give ‘Kichi some room to get out of bed.”

Timothy frowned, “First Class Nickels said it didn’t matter whose teeth they were.”

“Terrifying!” Katio said cheerfully, before leaning over to kiss Kokichi gently against his temple, “How we feeling this morning babe? Anything you need? Denji, Ikou and Lake are gonna meet us at breakfast whenever you’re ready. It’s gonna be a good day!” Kaito promised brightly.

...his family was with him. It was going to be okay. 

With slow, careful breaths, the weight in his stomach not lessened by that reminder, unfortunately, Kokichi sat up, watching his family whirl around him, getting things ready for the day. “You can have some ice cream, Tim, I don’t mind.”

A little more of his stiffness eased away at the...just unbearably cute onesie Kaito pulled out, provoking a deep sigh from Kokichi. Of course his dad had recommended something like that. Once a cuddly kitty cat, always one, apparently. But he’d lost against Kaito’s win, and...something warm and soft would probably be a comfort later on. 

Nodding a bit to Shuuichi, Kokichi pulled himself up to start getting dressed, a slight tremble in his hands, but he kept going. And, shaking his head a little, he spoke up more. “A demon…? We always had stories of the tooth fairy…”

“...I feel like I went on a bender drinking Cement Mixers last night… But…” He took another breath, trying to steady himself. Giving his family a small, nervous smile. “...I’ll be alright. It’ll be alright.”

“...you’re sure you’re alright helping me with the cotton pads so I don’t have to look?”

“Of course not, I don’t mind at all.” Shuichi said softly, in a much better mood now that he had gotten everything cleared up with Kaito. He still didn’t feel good about what he did, but Kaito had treated it like such a non-issue...kind of like with Kokichi, when he had confessed the kiss. Maybe he should feel bad that neither of his partners held him to higher standards, but… he could admit, at least to himself, that he was relieved neither of them had lost their minds on him.

“You haaaave to put the onesie on before you take the cotton out though, Kokichi.” Kaito insisted, “Even if just for a second! Your cheeks are gonna be so fucking cute and puffy.”

“Do you have to be such a freak, dad?”

“Like I gotta take that from the kid trying to barter for his uncles teeth.” Kaito huffed, before saying, “Help me make the bed, Tim. I know for a fact you know how to do those real straight corner edge things. Show me! I must learn!”

“Sure, I guess.... Uncle Kokichi seems nervous. Maybe we should eat the ice cream now to make him feel better.”

“Tim, I will send you to run laps if you keep that up.” Maki threatened, before saying to Kokichi, “We’re going to be there by nine-thirty, and be out of there by, I’ve been assured, three at the very latest. Seiko has reassured me that it will only be taking as long as that due to the surgeons taking extra time to minimize damage. When we return, you will drink some ice water, rest for a few hours, and when you wake up, dinner will be waiting-’

“Mostly broth. Some bread. But I hear it's gonna be delicious!” Kaito said.

“Where we will then eat dinner, have some ice cream, Kaito plans to read to us from that book, and you will go to bed. Your recovery will be the next few days, and the dentists are going to go over with me your medication schedule, which I will be verifying personally, because Kaito and Shuichi’s track record is terrible.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. I never missed a dose.” Shuichi muttered.

“You overdose one time! One time! No one ever lets you forget it!”

“Any concerns?” Maki asked.

Kokichi rolled his eyes a little but...Kaito’s attempts to vie for his own sense of cuteness made things a little more normal. Enough that he could get himself over to the bathroom to brush his teeth. Over the past day his gums at the back had been so inflamed that he could barely touch them with the brush but...that was the part that needed it the most, so he just went as gently as he could. 

As he came out, Maki did a run-through of the day and...he could barely even bring himself to think things like, ‘they’d only stay until three at the latest if nothing went wrong’. She just...made it sound impossible for things to go any other way, and that if they tried, then the universe itself would have to contend with the other side of Maki’s daggers. 

Letting go of a little breath, Kokichi went over and bopped his forehead against Maki’s shoulder, conveying his thanks. “Just...if I do anything too embarrassing, don’t tell me afterward. Let me live in blissful ignorance.”

He straightened, rubbing an eye, comfortable in the long-sleeved shirt and sweater and sweatpants Shuuichi had picked out. “Everyone ready for breakfast?”

There was a general concession of yeah, Maki going to close the window as Timothy ran up to Kaito, challenging him to try to walk down the stairs with Timothy standing on his feet.

“Can’t, kid. My knee still hurts, remember?” Kaito told him, indeed a little slow still, walking down the stairs. Shuichi, holding Kokichi’s hand, gave Kaito a concerned, worried look, before sighing slightly.

“Did you put ice on it like I told you?” Maki asked, following them down. 

“Nah, I forgot. Just went to bed.” Kaito said easily, giving Maki an appreciative grin, “I’ll try it a bit tonight, kay? It’s really not that bad either way.”

“It’s gonna be nice when you’re finally in recovery, Kokichi.” Shuichi said quietly to his boyfriend, “I know the last few days have been rough, but it’s all down hill after today.”

“Can I get my wisdom teeth taken out today?” Timothy asked. Jumping the stairs two at a time..

“Why? Your teeth hurt kid?”

“No. My school has a stupid spelling bee tomorrow.” Timothy muttered, “Don’t wanna go.”

“Wait, your school has a spelling bee? Were we invited to that?” Kaito asked, looking alarmed. Shit, had he forgotten about an event?

Timothy shook his head, “Nah. Parents are only invited if you go to the multi-school one. This is just for the classes. And if you win your class one, you compete in the school one, and if you win the school one, you go to the multi-school one…” Timothy frowned. “It’s dumb. I hate it.”

Kokichi sighed with a slight nod. “As much as I’m not looking forward to this… It’ll be nice to be on the other side. I can’t wait to not have a headache for the first time in, like, a week.”

He’d been told his cheeks and the back of his mouth could feel tender even when everything else had recovered, but compared to the throbbing ache in his head, he’d take it. 

Kokichi looked over in curiosity when Tim mentioned his school’s spelling bee before a...complicated expression crossed over his face, thoughts of his surgery beaten back for the moment. Something of...longing and regret, nostalgia and fondness. “I always wished I could’ve been part of the spelling bees, growing up.”

“Instead, Hideki would just quiz me randomly, just saying a word and expecting me to spell it. Not really the same at all,” he chuckled, “But if I got it right, he’d give me candy.”

Kokichi looked over at Tim. “Why do you hate it? If you don’t want to spell in front of your classmates, you can always do an alternative activity.”

“Everyone says you only opt out of the spelling bee if you can’t spell.” Timothy muttered, twitching. “And if you do the spelling bee, and lose, then you also can’t spell. Either way, Karl’s going to tell everyone I can’t fucking spell.”

“Language, kid.” Kaito said, reaching out to pinch Tim’s ear, who gave him an unimpressed look. “And what do you care what Karl says? I thought Karl was an asshole?”

“Kaito, do you even hear the things that come out of your mouth?” Shuichi asked, sighing, before giving Kokichi a sad look. There was nothing to really...say about the spelling bee stuff. It was just another sad aspect of Kokichi’s perpetually lonely childhood. There’d be no benefit to anyone to point it out to him, or apologize for it. Shuichi just wished…

Well. He wished a lot of things had been different.

“Karl is an asshole.” Timothy agreed, as the group went into the busy dining hall, food warmly scenting the air. “But everyone always listens to him. And he keeps telling everyone that I’m supposed to be in the second grade and not the third, but that we lied to get me ahead a year.  And if I can’t spell, he’s gonna say it's another sign I’m in the wrong grade.” Tim growled, balling his tiny fists.

“...hm.” Maki said, “Have you considered sparring hi-”

“Um, no! No. We’ve talked about this, Tim. You gotta ignore guys like that. They’ll get bored eventually.” Kaito insisted, giving Maki a Look.

“...I mean, you just have to beat him in spelling to not give him a leg to stand on. You don’t have to win the whole thing to embarrass him…” Shuichi mused, thinking. “If you could get your hands on the list of words the teachers going to read from…it’s probably in your teachers desk...”

“Not that either!” Katio said quickly.

“Not being able to spell doesn’t mean that much, really,” Kokichi hummed, frowning a bit at hearing, well...something that didn’t make up for not going to school, but was nice to not have the experience of. “And there are plenty of reasons someone would opt out. And...the bees keep going until one person is left anyway. It isn’t supposed to be a win/lose sort of thing. Just a way to see how far you can go.”

But, well. Kids liked competition. And while Kokichi had a feeling more people than “everyone” found Karl full of shit...it was still demeaning to hear someone say that sort of stuff about you. 

Beating him in the spelling bee would be a good way to shut the kid up, but...if Tim wasn’t confident…

“Hey, before we go to the hospital… Tim, do you still have the vocabulary sheets from school? It’d give us the idea of what sort of words would be in the bee and...I mean. It’s probably gonna be really boring while I’m in surgery…” Kokichi looked around at his family, something hopeful in his eyes. “You guys could practice for the bee. Help Tim study.”

And, despite the pain in his cheeks, Kokichi’s smile widened into a smirk. “And when you get further in the bee than Karl, Tim, why don’t you ask him if he’d like someone to help him study. The best sort of competition helps everyone improve, after all.”

Timothy didn’t seem thrilled at the idea of studying, but Kaito grinned, a competitive fire in his eyes as he said, “I like that idea. Tim, after you’re done eating, go get your sheets. Uncle Shuichi knows all sorts of studying tricks, right Shuichi?”

Shuichi nodded, “It shouldn’t be too hard.” Espionage would be simpler, but sure. Just plain studying was good too. “You give me a few hours of your time, Tim, and yeah. You’ll beat Karl.”

“And if that doesn’t work, then you can beat him up.” Maki said.

“Nope! Not a thing in Dicea! No sparring!”

“Spar in secret.” Maki advised.

“No sparring in secret! No sparring!”

“If you embarrass him enough during the fight, he won’t tell on you.” Shuichi offered.

“Timothy, your mother and uncle are joking to get a rise out of me! No sparring!”

Timothy rolled his eyes, “No duh.” he muttered, grabbing his plate.

And if Karl was still a problem after that… Well, ignoring really was the best thing, but if he got to the point he was hurting Tim’s feelings… He didn’t want to embarrass his nephew by talking to the kid himself. But maybe there was another way…

Kokichi grabbed a light breakfast of light foods, not wanting to have to deal with much if nausea became a problem later, but he was broken from his reverie by a chant of “Kiiiiichi - Kichi - Kichi - Kichi - Kichi - Prince KAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYY!!!!” being sung out, Lake sort of bouncing back and forth on her feet before wrapping her arms around Kokichi’s shoulders, giving him a hug.

Kokichi snorted, giving himself into the hug and seeing Denji facepalming and his dad giving a nod from the way Lake came, his father a little ways off, in conversation with others, but catching his eye for a moment, giving Kokichi a soft, encouraging look. His family there to see him off. 

“G’mornin’, sunshine. Trying to bring summer back are we?”

“Aw, c’mon, can’t I be happy to see my little bro-bro? Today’s big! So I’m givin’ him a biiiiig hug!”

Kokichi rolled his eyes and nudged her off, Lake putting on a good show of his light touches actually being the things moving her. “Careful, or Nazumi-chan’s gonna get jealous.”

Going over to the table with the others, Kokichi gave them all a good morning, feeling more like himself, albeit with jaw pain. 

“Lake, I need you to calm your whole…” Maki gestured to all of the guard, “thing. Just, all of it. Thank you.” she said, sitting down, Timothy sitting next to her, the boy giving Ikou a small wave.

“Good morning, guys!” Kaito said cheerfully, carefully sitting down, before frowning. “Nazumi…why does that name ring a bell?”

“The head gardener.” Shuichi provided, sitting on the other side of Kaito. “Former head gardner, soon.” 

Impulsive murderous tendencies. History of psychosis. Apparently a pretty good gardener, Shuichi had read. But he kept that to himself. Whoever wrote the reports had seemed pretty confident she wasn’t going to be a repeat offender, so...whatever. So long as she didn’t mess with any of them, Shuichi didn’t think it was his business (in the sense of spreading that information. Not stealing it. That was always his business.).

“Oh! Yeah! Cactus lady!” Kaito remembered. “You’re dating cactus lady, Lake?”

Shuuichi had just barely beaten Kokichi to it, having prepared to say, ‘my sister-in-law’. Ah well, there were always other opportunities. He’d save that one. 

As it was, Lake choked and waved her hands in front of herself, looking flustered. “N-no! No, we’re not - we’re not dating. We’re roommates!”

“And are they roommates,” Denji dryly commented, knowing Maki’s request was futile, but respecting it all the same. “No, you see, Lake and Nazumi share a cozy little home together, just across from the community garden, Nazumi tending to plants on their own property, even planting both of their plants together, just to show who lives there, right? They treat each other to outings when they both have free days, buying each other little trinkets just to show the bond of their friendship.”

Even though Denji was saying all the stuff she’d said in the first place over the years, Lake just grew redder at the stylist’s commentary, making a little strained noise. 

“Met when they were teens.” Even Ikuo was chiming in now. “Miss Hijiri was fascinated by ya, Lake. Can’t even tell ya how many times this one was late ta practice ‘cause they were hangin’ out somewhere together.”

Lake just groaned, before she laughed defeatedly. “C’mon, guys… We’re roommates. That’s all it is.” Something about her words sounded more like a lament than just...the fact or defence she usually said it as.

Kaito frowned. “How old are you again, Lake?”

Lake blinked out of her weird mood. “Oh, I’m 32.” 

“...so…” Kaito gave her a sort of confused, pitying look. “Is it her then? Does she not want too? Because like...you’ve definitely confessed by this point, right?”

Lake almost looked like she was about to get into another round of nervous deflections but…

It was subtle, but there. All the born Diceans at the table sharing a look. Denji looking frustrated while Kokichi’s gaze softened, Ikuo tipping his hat down over his eyes. 

And all of a sudden Lake drew herself up again, laughing loudly. “Of course I’ve confessed! To our bond as friends! Stronger than forged steel, I’ll tell you, and I’ve told her! When you find a relationship like that, you hold on, ‘cause that’s a friend for life!”

The three other Diceans sighed in their own ways, Kokichi and Denji both rolling their eyes in a manner that looked far too similar before they shared a look. “Sure, ‘til death do you part,” Denji snarked. 

Lake laughed again, oblivious. “You’ve got it!”

Shuichi wondered if the issue was Nazumi still loved the poor bastard she killed all those people for. 

Kaito, in turn, just looked at Lake, more confused, but Maki tapped Kaito on the shoulder and told him, “Stop interrogating people and eat your food.”

Kaito looked like he kinda wanted to insist, still endlessly concerned (and so tantalized by that concern. Cause it sounded like Lake was pulling some prime sidekick bullshit...mmmm. So close to being in this relationship, she just needed a push…), but...his history with Lake was sort of tough. He’d love to talk to her more about it, get more involved, but...honestly, they had only just gotten to a point where Kaito wasn’t fighting the urge to punch her all the time. And that made things feel a little raw and vulnerable. He’d rather keep the peace.

So he just shrugged, and went back to eating his food.

“M sure ya’ve thought it all through, but ya got any plans fer when yer restin’ at the hospital, bunny?” Ikuo asked, moving things along. “Sure yer gon’ be more than a li’l out of it, but any ideas?”

Kokichi thought for a moment--he was sure that he’d be in no state to be needing entertainment--before he snorted, looking over at Tim. “Maybe you guys should start asking me spelling bee questions. ‘Least then Tim can say that he’s beaten me at a spelling contest. I’d be kind of surprised if I’m able to say much more than “ah”.”

Timothy rolled his eyes, “Great. I’ll be a better speller then someone who can’t talk. That’s impressive.”

Maki narrowed her eyes at him, reaching over to pinch his ear, Tim wincing as she dug her nail in, “I know you’re both joking, but always treat anyone who challenges you as a serious competitor, even if you know they cannot win. Don’t be disrespectful.”

“Yes, mom...sorry Uncle Kokichi.” Tim said, rubbing his ear soothingly when she finally let go. Then he asked her, “Have you ever won any competitions?”

“Mmmmm, your mom’s won a lot of bar bets…” Kaito mused, thinking back, before snickering, “And while Maki wasn’t allowed to compete in official school sporting events, there was this other Indentured named Peko, whose family got special permission for her? Peko used to dominate during field days, where everyone in the school had to compete in sporting events. Like, everyone always knew she was gonna win. But after each event, once we had an official winner? We’d do the event again to let anyone who wasn’t allowed to participate give it a try, and man, Tim, it always came down to your mom and Peko. They were both incredible, they just ripped through the competition, it was almost kinda terrifying to watch…”

“And it always came down fifty/fifty.” Shuichi remembered, laughing lightly to himself, “It always seemed like one of you would win, then the other one would be so angry that they lost that they’d win the next round on pure spite alone.”

“Man, it’s a shame you two hated each other so much.” Kaito sighed, looking over at Maki, whose body was tense, like she wanted to spring into action even just remembering how intense those competitions were, “You two cooperating on literally anything would have probably been sublime. Like watching a mountain get up and punch someone in the face.”

It wouldn’t be much help in spelling ir in Tim’s social life, but it was bound to get a few laughs out of their group, and that’s all Kokichi wanted. And something won on a technicality was still a win. Kokichi was happy to give pieces of ammo to Tim for when he was older. 

Kokichi listened raptly to his family describing their own social lives, when it came to competition, at least, always happy to add more stories to the ‘hey, my friends didn’t grow up in literal torture all the time’ pile in his head. 

Peko...Peko was a name that tickled the back of his brain, though. She had probably been mentioned in a different story but...hm. He’d just have to remember this time. 

Laughing softly, Kokichi sent a grin over to Maki. “Well, then I have a feeling Maki-chan’s gonna be more into Zenith than any other holiday. There are all sorts of sport and leisure competitions going on for all ages. Actually…” he snorted to himself, “Imagining Maki-chan competing in the Water Brawl is kind of terrifying. I bet she could win with just a washcloth, but if she got her hands on a water shooter and water balloons…”

Lake groaned, chuckling lowly. “Aw man!! I would love to be a part of that battle. Damn you, civilians only rule!!”

“What’s Zenith?” Timothy asked, before gulping down way too much orange juice way too fast. The kid starting to hiccup, bubbles rippling through the juice as he gulped.

“Water brawl?” Shuichi mused…

Maki’s eyes narrowed. “Battle?”

Kokichi raised an eyebrow, just positive he’d talked about Zenith before, but before he could get a word out…

“Zenith is a national holiday in Mid-Summer,” Denji explained. “Like Harvest, it’s meant to celebrate the summer bounty, but also has thankfulness towards the good weather and the spirit of exploration. More people travel to Usot for Zenith than any other holiday.”

“Yeah! And there’s a lot of activities, but one of the big ones is the Water Brawl!” Lake chimed in. “It’s...it’s like a weird version of tail tag? Or, no, it’s not really like that at all… It’s this sort of race, sort of competitive obstacle course? You’re all racing to this pedestal, and it usually has some cool ribbon on it, but! It’s not just a flat race!”

Ikuo nodded. “Ain’t totally a battle as yer prolly thinkin’ it. But there are depots with supplies hidden ‘round the route to the end--buckets ‘n water shooters ‘n water balloons ‘n th’ like. If you tag someone with water, they have ta freeze for half a minute. Usually by the end, there’s just a bunch ‘a people only makin’ a step ‘a progress at a time ‘cause they’re all flingin’ water at each other.”

“It’s mostly an excuse to cool off.” Kokichi shrugged a bit, giving his friends a grin. “Some people just hang out in one of the parks to spray and toss water at each other with no real goal, but the Water Brawl kind of gives that sort of thing more structure. I know there are some people who look forward to trying to add another year’s ribbon to their collection too.”

“...it’s in the summer…” Maki said, a...heat starting to radiate off her. Hair shimmering as she said, “Fine. That’s plenty of time to train. We can put together mock events before, drill the basics, work strategies…”

“I mean, we’re probably competing against each other.” Kaito guessed, listening to the summarization….before he grinned wide, brow furrowing as he said, fists clenched, “So, while we’re drilling, guess we’ll have to account for each others moves...Shuichi? They have to have records somewhere, right? Can you find out who’s been winning the last ten years?”

“I mean...yeah, obviously.” Shuichi said, looking bored. “It’s probably public knowledge.”

“Right, but we need the runners up as well, which might not be recorded. No one fights harder than someone who got second place last year. And we need to know their physical and mental stats for the summer… that might take more research.” Maki offered, Shuichi’s eyes lighting up slightly as the sound of more of a challenge, though his face immediately fell as she added in, “And don’t think you’re getting out of drilling, just cause you’re gonna be pregnant. There’s always the next summer.”

“I mean...someone’s gotta watch the baby during the summer after that, right? I probably have all sorts of time to train...doesn’t gotta be now…” Shuichi groaned, though he knew this was gonna be a hopeless argument, Maki and Kaito fucking fired up.

Ikuo looked a little confused, but happy that his kids-in-law seemed to be in good spirits, Denji looked exasperated--how did they keep finding jocks--while Kokichi giggled, fond. Lake started to cheer, happy to see them getting in the spirit, before she groaned again, re-remembering that she wasn’t going to be able to compete, as it was the guardforce’s job to be stationed along the main routes to the pedestal and make sure that no one actually got hurt. 

Giving Maki a pleading look, she grasped her hands in front of herself. “Mak-attack, please! Give it a good shot to win for me! If I can’t participate, taste that sweet, sweet victory in my stead!”

“It would be nice to give it a try for once,” Kokichi murmured, more of that soft, longing look on his face. “I could always tap out if it gets to be too much…”

Denji snorted. “Sure. And I’d love to see you run full-tilt in a yukata. If it lets me try out another style for your hair and makeup once you need a touch up, sure, kid. Go for it.”

Maki looked over to Denji, surprise evident in her face. “Oh...huh. I thought you were meant to be one of the best in your field…”

“Oh, Maki, come on now. It’d be tough for anyone to design an outfit that lets you move around and stuff while still looking formal. And Denji’s probably never been asked to do it before.” Kaito said, giving her a slightly reproachful look, “I’m sure if they wanted too, they could get something, ya know…” Kaito shrugged, “Passable.”

Denji’s eyes narrowed while Kokichi’s eyebrows raised, glancing over at his friends. 

The style of the traditional clothes Kokichi wore for festivals and special occasions wasn’t something Denji decided, traditional clothes traditional for a reason. But that didn’t mean Denji didn’t make modern adjustments. Couldn’t make more. 

With a growl in their throat, they turned their glare onto Kokichi. A mean smile on their face. “Get ready for a hell of a lot of fittings, Ko.”

Kokichi sighed, giving his friends an exasperated look.

Kaito just grinned back, and Maki looked pleased.

There’d be a lot to look forward too in the summer, apparently. 

The walk over to the hospital was fine, and the briefing too. Change out the pads in his mouth until he’d stopped bleeding, the stitches would come out on their own in about a week, be sure to use a pipet to clean his gums after eating so no food would get stuck… All the stuff they’d heard before, but it was good to go over again. 

Then Kokichi was settled in the reclined chair, a light blanket pulled over him and… He tried not to freak out again. But being in that sterile room, seeing some of the equipment that never left, knowing that in just a bit, the dentist was going to be knocking him out and drilling in his mouth and making bloody holes that they’d have to stitch up…

Kokichi squeezed Kaito’s hand, his eyes just a little too wide. “...and you’ll be right there when I wake up?”

Kaito ran one feather light thumbs with his free hand over Kokichi’s eyebrows, smoothing them out, before leaning in to kiss Kokichi’s on the forehead. “I’ll be the first thing you see, I promise. And I’ll be able to tell you all about how well it went, and how brave you were, and how strong you are…” squeezing Kokichi’s hand as he moved on to massaging the ends of his hairlines. 

Kaito really wasn’t nervous. Kokichi was going to be fine. But he felt bad for how afraid his husband was, and Kaito said to him gently, “You’re doing really well, ya know? I’m actually really, really proud of you. It’s okay that you’re scared. But you’re handling being scared really, really well, babe.”

Kokichi took a deep breath, his exhale still stuttery, but...he was doing his best to keep calm. To get through this with minimal hangups. They had a plan, and they were sticking to it. He would be out of the hospital by three, and they’d go home, and he’d change into that saccharine cat onesie, but Kaito would love it and fuss over him for the next few days. Shuuichi was going to help him swap out his pads so he didn’t need to see the blood. He was going to eat so much ice cream, including that cool huckleberry gelato that Nadya had bought him, being considerate to pick out a treat that didn’t actually have seeds or chunks of berry in it so he could still eat it. 

“I’m trying…” he breathed. “...you guys make it easier to be less scared. And I know you guys are gonna tease me relentlessly for the dumb shit I’m gonna say while I’m still loopy...but I’m kind of looking forward to it too.”

He tried to smile up at Kaito, the edges shaky, but it was a real smile. “I love you. And it’s going to be okay.”

Kaito grinned, total confidence in his expression as he said, “I love you too, and hell yeah it is.”

-

There was a lot of time to wait in the...waiting room.

“Uninspired name, really.” Shuichi muttered, when Kaito pointed that out. Waiting in the waiting room. 

“What should they have called it?” Maki asked, it being her turn to go over the vocab words with Timothy, the two cutting up papers into squares and writing words on each square to more randomize the process when it was inevitably Shuichi’s turn again. 

“I don’t know…” Shuichi paused to think about it, “The trepidation room?”

“That seems too grim.” Kaito argued, “How about the Expectant room?”

“Sounds like a pregnancy thing. The Delay Room.” Maki offered.

“Hey, Timothy. Spell ‘expectant’.” Shuichi said.

“No, come on, that can’t be a third grade word…”

“I saw it on the list.” Shuichi said, giving Kaito a shrug. 

Timothy’s brow furrowed. “E...x...p….ect…” he mouthed it to himself, “...ant?”

“Good.” Maki said, “Say it faster next time.”

Timothy huffed.

-

Time went by. 

At some point, Maki went up to the receptionist. Her brow tense. Asking for an update. The receptionist told Maki that sometimes these things took a little longer then you expected them too, and Maki bore her teeth and wanted to know what was happening. And about ten minutes later the receptionist came back with more actual information. 

One of the teeth had shattered. Not a big deal, nothing dangerous, but it would take a little more time. Everything was still fine.

Kaito had frowned at that, before sighing. He, Maki and Shuichi discussed food, and Shuichi offered to take Tim to go grab something and bring it back, and Maki reminded him that he wasn’t allowed to go out on his own...and seeing the look of hurt go across Shuichi’s face, Kaito made the argument that Timothy counted as another person. That it would be fine.

And then Kaito told Shuichi quietly that they’d all talk about the restrictions soon, kissing him on the cheek, telling him he had been very patient so far… and Shuichi had just looked tired and shrugged, and he and Tim had gotten food.

More time went by.

Timothy got quicker with the words. 

Shuichi took a nap.

Maki got more and more annoyed when three’oclock approached and they still weren’t done.

And then four o’clock got there, and an assistant was sent to tell the family that everything was done. Kokichi was fine, if likely exhausted. And someone was allowed to come in and sit with him while he was taken off the gas, and that they just needed to double check there were no complications and he’d be good to go.

Kaito, of course, was the one sent to sit with him, and he watched Kokichi’s face patiently, waiting for his husband to start to shift. When Kokichi’s eyes started to move under the lids, Kaito whispered out softly, “‘Kichi...hey, beautiful...you with me?”

Everything was...hazy… 

The dentists had been nice, had asked him how he enjoyed Harvest, and Kokichi only got to describing how they checked out some of the game stalls before he was out. And...really, it sort of felt that he’d had one of those rare naps, where you’re only out for ten minutes, but it felt like you slept for ten hours. 

He felt kind of unsteady, but...his head didn’t hurt. He couldn’t feel much of anything in his head, actually. 

Kokichi blinked, registering Kaito after a moment. Like he promised, Kaito was the first thing he saw…

“G--aaauhg…” Kokichi gurgled, his mouth still too numb to form proper sounds, but wanting to greet his husband regardless. He had the feeling of a smile, though...his swollen cheeks stuffed with cotton pads didn’t allow for much movement even if he could feel his lips. 

He reached out a pale hand, more just turning it over in the bed he was tucked into, wanting to hold Kaito’s. 

Kaito was quick to take Kokichi’s hand, having more or less become accustomed too noting the little movements of Kokichi’s body language. And after his eyes darted around Kokichi’s face, looking for any obvious signs of pain or stress or anything worrying...he grinned.

“Gaugh?” Kaiot asked, wearing a shit-eating grin. “Do you know who I am, babe? Can you say ‘Kai-Chan’?”

Kokichi blinked slowly, Kaito’s words still filtering in like a feather slowly drifting through the air. Of course he knew who Kaito was! And Kaito confirmed it too! He wasn’t gonna be that far gone after the surgery. 

“Khh-ag-aan.” 

A bit of bloody drool rolled down from the side of Kokichi’s lips, completely unnoticed by the small prince. 

Kaito was such an asshole sometimes. He giggled like a fiend, absolutely delighted, as he snickered, “Oh, no, ‘Kichi...oh my sweet husband. Awww...good try, babe. Here, hold on, let me clean ya up.” 

Kaito, still snickering, looked around before finding a small hand towel, snagging it and coming back, carefully, carefully patting his husbands face, snickering even harder as seeing those poor, puffy cheeks bend slightly under his fingers. “Awwwww… the surgery went really great, Kokichi. We’re a little later in the day then we expected, but nothing crazy, just an hour. It’s four o’clock. We’re going home soon, okay, we’re just waiting for you to clear up a little, the doctors are gonna ask you a few simple questions, and then I’m taking you home to rest.”

“...” then, Kaito grinned. “Do you know your name? Can you say ‘Kokichi’?”

It was a weird feeling, knowing that Kaito was touching him but...not really being able to feel it. It was just...some weird, vague sensation of pressure. The knowledge that Kaito was touching his face without having any of the data. 

“...nngoo…” It was not four. Kaito was making fun of him. Maki had said they’d be out by three, and that meant surgery and sticking around for the doctors to clear him. Plus, he surely hadn’t been out for that long. They started at ten! He was out for two hours, maybe, and even that felt like a stretch. 

Kokichi tried to glare at Kaito, though it just sort of looked like he was looking at him. “Kohhh-hi-hi…”

With a small groan, Kokichi’s loose gaze went around the room, not really absorbing anything, but noticing that there weren’t who he had expected there. “Tui-ti? Ah-gi?”

Fuck, Kokichi was so cute. Kaito gave the man a soft look, before saying, “Yesss, I’m afraid so, babe. Trust me, Maki was pissed too. It’s alright though, it was just a little while longer. We’re leaving soon.”

As Kaito listened to Kokichi try to say his own name, he nodded, “That’s right. Kohihi. Good job.” he praised, clearing away the next dribble of bloody drool quickly.

“Shuichi and Timothy are in the waiting room, Maki’s getting debriefed by the dentists. They were going to wait to do it with all of us together, but you know how Maki is. She wanted the information immediately.” Kaito shrugged, “And they didn’t want all of us crowding you while you were waking up, so I was the only one allowed to come in. Don’t worry, they’re all just outside. Timothy is really excited to go home and eat ice cream with you, and I’m getting the impression Shuichi has also been looking forward to the ice cream. I’m glad we bought so much.” Kaito chuckled.

“Alright, babe. Squeeze my hand once if you want me to go fetch the dentists, twice if you’d rather just wait…”

Leaving soon… They had the rest of the afternoon to rest and eat ice cream, then dinner, then more ice cream? But he was supposed to rest all of today, and then, like...recovery resting for a few days. Rest sounded nice...he felt really tired. 

“Ii- gream…” Ice cream sounded really nice too. He hoped Maki really would let Tim have some. Ice cream was best when it was shared… But, like, from the carton. Not from the bowl. That was his, and he’d have to let it melt a bit so he could swallow it and not give himself brain freeze. That sounded horrible right now. 

Despite feeling slow and drowsy, Kokichi wanted to get a move on in the day, so he squeezed Kaito’s hand once. Or...he tried. He...didn’t have much strength to him, so it was more like just a moment of tension in Kokichi’s hand before he let it rest again, bony and pale in Kaito’s. 

The squeeze was weak, but again, Kaito was pretty tuned into Kokichi’s body language these days. Smiling, he brought Kokichi’s hand up to his mouth, giving it a small kiss. “Alright, babe. I’ll be right back. You’re doing great.”

It was Maki who came with Kaito and the dentists, standing near the wall, her gaze watching everything after giving Kokichi a once-over. Shuichi and Timothy still waiting in the waiting room, as the Dentists went over...well, technically they were talking to Kokichi. But, aware that most of what they were saying probably wasn’t getting through to the young prince, most of what they said was really intended for Kaito and Maki, who listened intently, Maki hearing most of this for the second time now.

There was a small complication during the surgery, but nothing that resulted in lasting damage. His tooth had shattered, and so it had taken a little longer to get all the pieces safely out. It wouldn’t affect his recovery period at all, which they went over again. Change out the cotton every couple of hours until they started coming away clean, liquid diet, mouth wash. There were stitches in the back of his mouth, and while he shouldn’t mess with them, to not be alarmed when they started coming undone on their own. Try not to swallow it, but it wouldn’t really hurt anything if he did, so don’t worry. They were giving him some light painkillers, but if the area started to look or feel inflamed after today, bring him back.

And, well..he’d need rest, more likely than not. He’d likely be exhausted for a good number of days, while his body recovered from the blood loss and the strain.

Then the dentists, respectfully and carefully, asked Kokichi some questions. “Could he feel anything in his face yet? No? Good, good, he’d be numb for another hour or so. Other than the numbness, did you feel anything unusual? Good, good. Let’s take a look at your jawline real quick...nothing bruising. Good.

Alright.

You can take him home.

Kaito cleaned up Kokichi’s face one more time before picking him up bridal style after he and Maki helped Kokichi get back into his coat for the cold. Then, Kaito worrying a little, put his own coat on Kokichi’s front side before picking him up, his husband bundled and warm and resting his head against his collarbone. “Alright! Not much longer. Short walk and then you can lay down and take a nap, Kokichi. We’re gonna put a little water into you, and if you can stay awake, a little ice cream, but don’t worry if you can’t stay awake, you can always have some later.” Kaito said, heading out to the waiting room.

Timothy and Shuichi were just cleaning up the flashcards, Shuichi smiling lightly as he said, “Oh, there you all are. Hey Kokichi… how are you feeling?” Shuichi asked, standing up and heading over to Kaito, reaching out and squeezing Kokichi’s shoulder reassuringly.

Timothy, in turn, looked at Kokichi and said, “I saw a fish that looks like him once. Its face got all big when you poked it.”

Like Kaito’s the dentists’ words washed over Kokichi’s head like a wave, only leaving slight remnants and mostly gone away with the ocean. That was why they’d gone over the briefing several times before the surgery, and consulted with his family. Even if Kokichi couldn’t remember or wasn’t in a state to take care of his needs, the others would have all the information they could possibly need at their disposal. 

He managed to babble out some answers for the doctors and when the word “home” came up? Kokichi managed to brighten, recognizing that at least. 

He wasn’t much help getting himself dressed, cognition slowly coming back, but without any energy to support it. Kokichi’s limbs felt dumb and leaden, but that didn’t stop Maki (Ma-g-gi…!) or Kaito, and soon he was safely in his husband’s arms, starting to warm up. 

Kokichi tiredly smiled at Shuuichi (Sssui-ti!), enjoying his boyfriend’s small touch. “Mmng...kay. S’all kay. I-ss c-rem…”

“Timn!” Kokichi looked at the boy with a bit of urgency, not quite following what his nephew had said, but knowing he wanted to let the others know. “You can ha’f ice gream.” 

Timothy nodded, looking serious, before looking at his mom. “Mom. Prince Kokichi said I can have-”

Maki rolled her eyes, reaching over and pinching her son on the ear. “I heard him. Don’t get cocky, kid. I can still override him.”

“Aw, come on, Maki, Tim’s been good. He studied almost the whole time! He’s earned some ice cream. And so has my ‘Kichi.” Kaito gushed, as the five headed out. Kaito was careful to keep Kokichi comfortable as they got into the cold air, Maki glaring at people who were openly staring at the bundled up prince in Kaito’s arms, Shuichi nervously assuring a few people who wandered too close, “He’s fine, he’s fine, wisdom teeth. We’re going home now. Thank you…”

And as they walked, Kaito talked adamantly about… well, whatever came to mind. Kokichi might have been asleep, Kaito couldn't really tell, but in case he wasn’t, Kaito just kept up an air of chatter, wanting his husband to stay calm and reassured. Everything was fine. The hard part was over. They were going home to rest.

When they finally got back to the castle, one of the guards quietly talked to Maki, who nodded back. To the family, she said, “I’m going to go debrief King Aiichi and Ikou real quick on to how it went. I’ll meet you all up there… save me some strawberry ice cream.”

When they got back to the room, Kaito sighed. A little relieved. This really was the easy part… “Welcome home!” he said loudly, in case Kokichi was asleep. He wanted to rouse Kokichi just long enough for Shuichi to change out his cotton, and for Kokichi to get some water in his system before he fell asleep again. Laying out Kokichi on the bed, prepping him on the pillows, Kaito said to Timothy, “Tim, get a talk glass of water, ice, and put the painkiller tablet in it. Once that’s done, then you can have some ice cream, alright?”

“On it.” Timothy said, heading to the bathroom.

“Shuichi?” Kaito said, looking to his boyfriend, who nodded.

“Let’s go ahead and get the first cotton set done, Kokichi. Don’t worry, it’s gonna be easy. And you can keep your eyes closed the whole time,” Shuichi said, sitting next to Kokichi, fresh cotton already in hand. “But lets wait for the water first…”

“Got it!” Tmothy said, delivering.

Kokichi drifted as they walked home, huddling into Kaito’s body as much as he could, the crisp fall air more biting to him now than it usually was. He didn’t even notice anyone that passed, going in and out of a light sleep, Kaito’s rambling comfortable and familiar, even if he couldn’t recall a single thing that his husband had said. 

He was almost surprised to find himself back in their room, blinking awake at the sudden increase in Kaito’s volume. And...why were they back home? Didn’t they have to do a debrief with the doctors?

...but if his family had brought him home, then it was probably okay. 

The warmth of their room was something he appreciated, anyway, and while it usually brought bad memories, being sat up against their pillows made Kokichi feel more secure in their familiarity. Enough that he turned toward Shuuichi more--as close to shuffling as he could get at the moment--and put a light hand on his arm, closing his eyes and opening his mouth as much as he was able, letting his head loll forward. Apparently unconcerned with anything being ready, globs of drool already falling from his mouth. 

“Oh dear…” Shuichi laughed a little bit, giving Kokichi a soft look, before saying. “Well, let’s get those out then. Kaito? Being me a hand towel?”

“On it.” Kaito said, sa Shuichi put the glass of water on the nightstand, before carefully beginning the process.

It was simple enough. There were four large cotton towelettes, and Shuichi’s long, slender fingers were perfect for gently pulling them out without having to force Kokichi’s mouth open any larger. Timothy, already with a bowl of chocolate ice cream, watching this process with interest, his nose wrinkling slightly as Kokichi basically drooled buckets. “You should have a bigger towel.”

Shuihci frowned, realizing Timothy was right, “Tim, bring me a towel proper. And an empty cup.”

 “Got it.” Timothy said, leaving his bowl behind to go collect the new items.

Putting the towel on Kokichi’s chest and lap, to catch more of the drool spilling out, an empty cup next to the water cup, Shuichi finished taking out the cottons, placing them into the empty cup. Then taking the empty cup, he brought it to Kokichi’s lips. “Kokichi? I want you to spit, okay? But keep your eyes closed. Just keep spitting till you feel like you can’t anymore.”

It was...weird. Kind of like Shuuichi was taking out soft, squishy chunks of his mouth, but it didn’t hurt at all. He still could barely feel his mouth, only suggestions of sensation so as he felt the wet mounds just...plop out…

It was probably very fortunate that Kokichi couldn’t taste much either. With blood so thoroughly coating his mouth, there would likely be a lot more than just drool waterfalling out. 

Just making some sort of indistinct sound to show that he’d heard Shuuichi, Kokichi spit up into the cup, a watery red filling it up until he was ineffectively blowing against numb lips. 

After it seemed like he was done, Shuuichi helped him drink the water and...well, Kokichi tried. It was hard to form a seal when you couldn’t feel your lips, but luckily they hadn’t moved the towel, and any water that came out the side of his mouth was caught as well. 

For a good few moments, Kokichi just breathed, these little wet sounds, before he made a questioning sound. “...Aiss cream?”

Shuichi smiled. “Once the cottons back in. Kaito?” 

“Already working on it. This was the one Kokichi was looking at before we left, right?” Kaito asked Shuichi, bringing out Nadya’s ice cream. Shuichi nodded, carefully putting new cotton swabs in the back of Kokichi’s mouth. 

Kaito made up Kokichi’s bowl first, and to give it time to melt, he made a bowl up for himself and Shuichi as well. Delivering all said ice cream, Kaito put Kokichi’s bowl to the side, and said to his husband, “Hold off just a little longer, kay babe? Let’s change out your clothes, get you in something a little less drool covered.”

Thinking about it, Kaito looked to Tim, “Hey, kid, go find your mother, tell her we’re doing ice cream.”

Timothy, who was working on his second bowl, pouted. “Fine.” He said, putting it aside, and heading out. The kid closing the door behind him, Kaito turned back to Kokichi. “Alright! Out of those clothes. Arms up, babe!”

Kokichi’s protest of “nnoooo, m married…” was thankfully a little too jumbled in his slurs, since it was unclear if he meant it as a joke. And by the time Kaito asked again, Kokichi had already forgotten about that particular tease, and just huffed something like a laugh as he shakily raised his arms. 

“Lik-ka roller coaster… Wooo!” 

Kokichi fell back as Kaito pulled his shirt off, the slight drop likely feeling like a roller coaster to him. He laughed a little more, gazing somewhere up at the ceiling. “Godda...eat lo’s a food tha’s bad for ya...an’ I go’ winna prize for Kai-tan… Bi’er than what he win’s for me so I win… Big fishy…” 

Shuichi raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly as he said to Kaito, “Big fishy?”

Kaito’s smile was... a little more sad, though he laughed as he said, “Kinda an inside joke by this point. Sorta. You can win me a fish later, babe, but let’s get those pants off first.” Kaito said, kissing Kokichi’s shoulders a few times (partly because he wanted too, partly because Kokichi was so out of it that Kaito was worried he’d get worried about someone pulling his pants down. He just wanted to constantly remind Kokichi that it was Kaito touching him. Too many kisses sounded about right.) as he peeled Kokichi’s pants off. “Shuichi, would you grab the onesie?”

“Here.” Shuichi said, passing over the cat onesie.

“Also, get into yours, handsome!”

“...no? No.”

“Yes!”

“Kaito...no.”

“Kokichi? You want to see Shuichi in his super cute onesie, don’t you?” Kaito goaded, shuffling Kokichi’s legs into the onesie and pulling it up to his hips.

Kokichi was pretty useless in helping Kaito help him into the onesie, but that also meant that he wasn’t actively making it harder. Really, Kokichi barely registered being changed, only that there was something really soft and fluffy against his skin now, which was absolutely an upgrade. 

“Tu-chhfffan’s always cute...cute-patooote…” Kokichi laughed softly. “How did I end up gettin’ s-rounded by cuties? Cute Sushu-tan...cute Khhai-tan…”

Kokichi looked around, having lost track of Shuuichi, and he reached out for him. “N cute baby soon…”

“Very cute Shuichi, very cute baby, ruggedly handsome Kaito.” Kaito agreed (and corrected) guiding Kokichi’s arms into the onesie, before buttoning it up, pulling up the hoody and stepping back to get a good look at him...before rushing forward, pulling Kokichi into a hug and then ruffling his hair as he said, “Yes! I knew it would be adorable! Awww, look at you babe!”

Shuichi headed over to Kokichi, shooing Kaito off of him before sitting next to him, putting another gentle squeeze on his arm, before saying, “You want ice cream? Here, I’ve got your bowl…” Shuichi said, taking the bowl and bringing it over to Kokichi, taking a spoonful and offering it, since Kokichi didn’t seem to have full use of his arms yet.

Watching them, Kaito sighed, enjoying the view. They both had...problems. Kaito knew that. Kokichi wasn’t as stable as Kaito could have hoped, when he had been promised to someone, and Shuichi had some...dark impulses, sometimes, that Kaito had a feeling his boyfriend would be fighting the rest of his life.

...but those flaws didn’t shadow over the positives. They were both so intelligent, and genuinely good, and could be incredibly kind. And he loved them a whole lot…

...and he had to get Shuichi into that raccoon onesie! 

He was gonna look so cute!!

There was a knock at the door, and Maki and Timothy came in, Timothy immediately heading towards his ice cream bowl, Chase (who had been being watched over by Haneda today) at his heels, while Maki said, “Alright. Everyone’s been debriefed, everything is good to go. I’d call that a successful day.”

Kokichi blinked tiredly out from under the hood of the cat onesie, a little confused but pleased to have Kaito’s affection. His husband just sometimes got all hyped up on his cuteness. Such was life, but Kokichi was always happy for more cuddles, and if he’d had more energy, he would’ve been happily nuzzling his husband, just making the effect even stronger. 

His attention was quickly diverted though, as Shuuichi came up, promising ice cream. Even low on reserves, Kokichi still perked up leaning in towards his boyfriend and opening his mouth for the spoonful, at least making the connection that Shuuichi was going to feed him. And while the taste was muted, it was still strong enough that Kokichi got a sense of it, swallowing and humming happily, even if he sucked one of his lips into his mouth every now and then, little drips of drool and huckleberry gelato missing his mouth and going down his chin, though they were quickly wiped off. 

Kokichi looked over when he heard the knock at the door, smiling dazedly when he saw Maki and Tim (and Chase, of course) enter. “We’re havin’ a sleepover? Though’ i’ was only gonna be when it’s col’ler… Bu’ ‘m happy for it… Love havin’ e-greone here…”

“Well, one of us is definitely sleeping soon.” Maki said, collecting her own bowl of ice cream and sitting at the desk, Timothy and Chase running to the window seat, Timothy wanting to stare out the window and see if he could spot people. “Kaito? Are you going to read from that book? Somehow I don’t think your main audience will last too long into it.” She said, noting Kokichi’s dazed expression.

“We’ll just try for a chapter. It’ll be nice.” Kaito said, settling in next to Kokichi, looking down at him adoringly, before looking up to Maki. “Are you going to change into your onesie?”

“No.”

“Timothy?”

“Am I supposed too?”

“If I say yes, am I a bad father?”

“You got him a puppy one, right?” Maki asked, “It’s probably child abuse, yes.”

“Hmmmm….I may be okay with that…”

“There’s something more important going on anyway.” Maki said, putting aside her ice cream and then going over to Kokichi. Leaning in, she put a hand on her princes’ knee, patting it gently. “Hey, Kokichi?”

She smiled. “Do you know what sound a cat makes?”

“Schleepover!” Kokichi cheered, calming down right after so Shuuichi could feed him more ice cream, ever one to be bribed with sweets. And what was a sleepover without treats too? Sure, he’d never had a sleepover like that, more of a slumber party, really, but it was never too late to do new things. Kokichi may have been behind on a lot of experiences, but that just meant he got to share his first times in a lot of things with his family. 

He slurped a bit of the ice cream, reaching out weakly to just...touch Shuuichi, wanting to be close. Cradled against Kaito, Maki and Tim and chase doing their own stuff on either side. “M happy to have su’ss a great fam’ly…”

One that was worried about him a lot, but always out of care. Kokichi sighed a little, thinking he was done with the cognition questions Kaito had quizzed him with earlier. Giving her a ‘uh, duh, I totally know that’, sort of look, Kokichi cooed out, “Nyaa, nyaa.” 

“...okay.” Shuichi said quietly, eyes shimmering. “That was pretty cute.”

“Eeeeeee!!!!” Kaito put his hands over his mouth, red in the face, before digging both palms into his lids, collapsing back on the bed, making indistinguishable noises as Maki just smirked, entirely pleased. “Oh my god!! I can’t. I’m gonna die!”

“That’s pretty good. What else can we get him to say…” Maki thought about it, before saying to Kokichi, “So, be honest...who's your favorite? Kaito or Shuichi?”

“What? Hey, come on, let’s not tease him like that, Kokichi would never-”

“I think I’m his favorite.” Shuichi smirked, passing Kokichi another spoonful of ice cream.

“What!? You’re always accusing him of favoring me! Why are you the favorite now!?”

“Because I’m the one holding the ice cream.” Shuichi smirked, offering Kokichi another spoonful, as he said sweetly to his boyfriend, “Do you like me more than Kaito, Kokichi?”

Kokichi looked over to Kaito thrashing about in confusion. That was what cats said. No need to throw a fit over it. Or...did cats say something else in Luminary? He knew it varied language to language, but maybe it was a culture thing too. “...li’ aluminunm… S’diff’rent?”

Not getting much time to muse on that, he blinked at Maki’s question, happily eating the spoonfuls Shuuichi provided while his brain worked through that one. “Kai-chshan an’ Tsu-tan are my fav’rites, ‘course…”

“Like k’em more than me… Like Kai-chan an’ Suu-chan mor’an anything! Love you so-so-so much…” Kokichi seemed to lose focus on everything for a moment, just mumbling about favorites. 

“Hmmmm.... We’re gonna have to get more creative. Alright! I know how we can determine who the favorite is.” Maki said, turning to Kaito. “Your bowl empty?”

“Mm? Yeah, I haven't started eating anything yet.” Kaito said, looking at his empty bowl.

Maki took the bowl Shuichi was feeding Kokichi from, and emptied half of it into Kaito’s bowl, saying very seriously, “Okay, so here’s how we do it. You both offer him a spoonful of Ice cream. Whichever spoon he goes for? That’s the favorite.” 

“Hey, this is taking advantage of Kokichi’s altered mental state!... but I’m gonna win, so when he picks my spoon, Shuichi, just remember that its probably half the drugs fault. So don’t feel bad!”

“Oh, sure. You go ahead and tell yourself that all you want, when he picks my spoon.”

“No, he’s gonna pick mine!”

“Uh huh.”

“‘Kichi! Babe! I have ice cream for you! Do you want my ice cream?”

“Kokichi, here, you can keep eating from the spoon you’ve already been eating from…”

TImothy watched all this, entirely unimpressed, and a little exasperated. The adults in his life were so god damned weird.

Somehow, Kokichi didn’t notice them setting up this plan right in front of him, instead lost in his head, thinking about how much he loved his boyfriend and husband. And there was a lot to think about! The scope of his love was so HUGE that it would take forever to truly contemplate it. But it was a task well-worth doing, in Kokichi’s eyes, so he would remain focused on his thoughts, every moment being aware and thoughtful when it came t-

“Ice cream?”

Kokichi blinked, looking at the two spoons in on either side of him. Which was a little silly. If they wanted him to eat from both, then why weren’t they in front?

Making a small sound, Kokichi leaned back into their pillows, trying to get both spoons in the proper range to go into his mouth. Which...probably wasn’t the smartest thing when he could barely move, and by the time he’d leaned back, Kokichi could only sag against the pillows, too tired to sit up and eat. 

“He didn’t get either.”

“I mean, he went for both. Sorta. You could see the desire in his eyes.”

“Yeah, but he didn’t get either, so what’s the verdict?”

“Probably just means he doesn’t love either of you.”

“Awww…”

Shuichi shook his head, saying gently, “Let’s stop teasing him, he looks really tired. Kokichi, one last bite and then you should go to sleep. Kaito, do you want to start reading?” Shuichi asked, bringing Kokichi one last spoonful, before starting to clean up around him.

Kaito, in turn, went and kissed Kokichi’s forehead, wiped some of the drool off his face, and said, “Alright, babe. Let’s find out how they get out of their pit. And if you don’t remember later, that’s alright. I’ll read it to you again.”

Kokichi looked up mournfully at the spoons above him, a true lover of ice cream, but defeated by his own love. A tragic story for the ages, truly. But then his ever loving Shuuichi brought his spoon closer, helping Kokichi eat, and Kokichi hummed out, “Love you Shuu-chan...my favorite boyfriend…”

But then Kaito was at his side as well, wiping his face and kissing his forehead and never fussed about doing things that were more difficult just so Kokichi would be happy. Whether it was helping him to the bathroom or re-reading a passage… “Love you, Kai-chan...my favorite husband…”

Kokichi was curled up in bed, supported by pillows and enveloped in an overly cute cat onesie, one that was warm and soft and wouldn’t get twisted around his body like pajamas. His cheeks were terribly swollen and he drooled over himself, his skin too pale for even his natural pallor, and the young prince looked exhausted. But he was surrounded by people he loved and who cared about him. 

Kokichi barely made it two paragraphs in before wet snuffles filled the room. 

-

The day before, for being the day of the actual surgery, had gone really, really well, actually. Kokichi was a little out of it for most of it, but he didn’t seem to be in any real pain, kept down his dinner, and was a little more lucid later that night, where they had some more ice cream, and read more from the book. It had been nice, even.

Today, Maki had taken of Timothy duties, and Shuichi had gone to help Nadya in the office, so it was just him and Kokichi and…

...today was proving to be...trickier.

It was an hour past lunch, and Kaito was still trying to convince Kokichi to have more than a bite of his broth. “Babe, I know you don’t think you're hungry, but if you go back to sleep without eating, when you wake up, everything is gonna feel even worse…”

Existence was misery. 

And Kaito wouldn’t even take that seriously because he was still in that dumb cat onesie. 

Even with the painkillers, Kokichi’s head ached, a different sort of pain from the headache he’d been dealing with before, but with its own bag of absolute nonsense. He could feel the swollenness of his face, and it just pushed the inside of his cheeks against his teeth, making it uncomfortable to move his jaw at all. And, of course, that’s what he always had to do. 

Can’t keep his mouth open, ‘cause then he’d drool everywhere. Can’t keep it closed, because then it squished the cotton in his mouth and…

God...the ever-present taste of blood was the worst part of it all. Kokichi knew that he’d been bleeding longer than most people did. And in all fairness, he was just spotting on the cotton by this point, and they’d just agreed to have him keep it to make extra sure that the wounds had clotted all the way. But he hadn’t quite put together that by bleeding in his mouth, he would have blood in his mouth that he could taste all the time. 

So, fucking, excuse him if he didn’t have much of an appetite, Kai-chan, cause there was BLOOD in his MOUTH and he felt fucking nauseus constantly!

“It’s gonna feel worse to throw it all up and have stomach acid stuck in my mouth,” Kokichi countered, just tired and in pain, and already sick of how this recovery was going. 

Kaito did not sigh...but he could feel himself having to fight the urge, and only because when he had sighed earlier, Kokichi had gotten way more defensive. Kaito was half convinced he could have talked his husband into actually eating, if he hadn’t sighed. It was the sigh. That was the fucking sabatoge. The fucking sigh.

So, not wanting to make the same mistake, he did not sigh...but fuck he grit his teeth, running a hand over his face.

Just be patient, Kaito. He’s in a lot of pain right now. 

So, instead, he tried, “Well...what if you tried just a few bites at a time, and see how your stomach handles it?” Kaito tried, stirring the broth slightly, wondering if he should go heat it up. It was probably still lukewarm, but maybe if Kokichi could smell it? He’d want it? “I mean...Kokichi, you skipped breakfast already...you can’t not eat anything all day.” 

“I can,” Kokichi said just to be stubborn and pedantic. “It is literally possible for me to not eat anything, and not just in the human sense. I’ve done it before.”

But he left it there with a sigh, wincing a bit from how his teeth kept scraping against the sides of his cheeks. “I know you’re worried about me an’ you just want me to get better… But I feel like I’m gonna hurl if I eat anything. Everything tastes like blood and it’s making me feel sick…”

And he really did look miserable. Like he was just sick, if not for his puffed up cheeks. A bit of color had returned to his face, but not much, and Kokichi put a hand on his forehead, closing his eyes against the pain for a moment before he cracked an eye open. 

“...can you get an extra bowl? I think...if I lean over it...I might be able to get something down. An’ it’ll be there just in case…” 

Kaito felt a thick layer of relief. Good. Kokichi sounded like he was ready to try. Okay. 

“Yeah, babe, give me one minute. I’m gonna bring you some water too.” Kaito said, getting up from his chair and going to collect the bowl and the water. Bringing it back, he had another hand towel with him as well. Kokichi was still drooling randomly, his husband not always managing to keep his mouth shut enough to manage, but that was alright. Kaito didn’t mind helping him clean up.

...he just...hated the idea that he was hurting Kokichi’s pride, in some way, by doing it. So, as he brought it all back, he handed Kokichi the hand towel, saying, “Here you go. Fresh one. Let me know if you need any help…”

Kokichi sat himself up a little more, still not up to full strength, still feeling pretty drained honestly… But, well. That’s why Kaito was vying so hard for him to eat. Food and rest meant that he’d replenish the blood he lost in the surgery and resulting day. Once he had enough blood going around his body again, Kokichi would get his energy again. 

He knew it was important to eat. It was just hard to find anything appetizing. 

Once Kaito returned, Kokichi fit the empty bowl in his lap, a good place where he could lean over it easily, and he took the towel from Kaito, dabbing at his face. The numbness had pretty much all left by this point, but there were certain points on his lips that just...didn’t quite feel all the way there yet. It was better to be gentle and not risk hurting himself ‘cause he couldn’t feel it. 

Taking a breath, Kokichi nodded to his husband, signalling that he could feed him again. 

Kaito gave Kokichi a thin but encouraging grin, once again feeling that heavy layer of relief. His husband wasn’t unreasonable, he knew Kokichi would come around eventually...Kaito had just been starting to worry he would come around only once dinner hit, too hungry to deny himself anything. 

“Aright. It’s gonna be a little tepid, but if it’s insufferable, I’ll go borrow the heater in the office and put the bowl on it for awhile, alright? No worries.” Kaito told him, taking spoonful and filling it up with broth, offering it to his husband.

Immediately, they ran into a problem. When he’d eaten dinner and ice cream the day before, Kaito and Shuuichi had offered up spoonfuls, which Kokichi took into his mouth, and then they would turn the spoon to deposit whatever he was eating into his mouth. But with Kokichi’s head dropped forward over the bowl in his lap...there was no using gravity to help, and Kokichi didn’t quite have enough of a grasp to slurp. 

...but he needed to eat. Even if it made him feel sick. 

Reluctantly, Kokichi brought his head back up, allowing himself to be fed normally, though there was a grimace on his face. Just...lukewarm, watery blood sitting in his mouth before he forced himself to swallow with a shudder. 

But he kept his head up for the next spoonful. 

“Hey, you’re doing great. Just give me a couple more spoonfuls like that, and then we’ll drink some water and you can rest.” Kaito said, kinda wishing he could insist Kokichi eat the entire bowl, but… he hated watching Kokichi just barely be able to swallow it, and the miserable look in his eyes as he stared at Kaito, waiting for the next spoonful.

Taking the spoon, Kaito offered him another bite, before saying, “Do you think it would help to change out the cotton? We can do that real quick if you thought it would?”

Kokichi got down the next spoonful, feeling his throat protest for a moment before he calmed. He looked up at Kaito and… “Maybe?” he sighed. “Might make the taste go away…”

In an almost impressive show, since Kokichi had trouble moving his face around in certain ways still, his nostrils flared, sitting back against the pillows again with a groan. “...it’s so bad. It’s like...that key lime curse, except instead of tasting like something actually pretty good, it’s horrible right from the get go.”

Kokichi rubbed his head a little, giving a half-pleading look to his husband. “...do you think I could have something stronger tasting for dinner? Might keep me from feeling like I’m a shitty vampire or something…”

“Stronger tasting…” Kaito looked down at the broth, filling up another spoonful, despite his husband turning away from him, as he said, “I’ll talk to Chaki. Would you be okay with something spicy? Or do you think that would turn your stomach? Also, come on, babe, you were doing so well for a second there. A few more…”

Kaito said, reaching out to place a hand on the back of Kokichi’s shoulder, trying to adjust him back into an eating position. “Three more? Just three. And... “ he spilled the broth back into the bowl, “We’ll take the cotton out first, give you a sip of water. That should clear out some of the taste now. Close your eyes babe, let me get them out…”

“It’s not that my stomach’s sensitive right now,” Kokichi sighed. “It’s that my mouth is fuckin’ full of blood and that freaks me out.”

A smaller sigh. 

“...sorry. I think spicy stuff would be fine…”

He rubbed one of his eyes now, starting to just...feel frustrated and overwhelmed from that frustration. It could be a lot worse. His gums could be inflamed or infected. All his teeth could’ve shattered during the surgery (and once he’d been lucid enough to process that, holy shit was that something that was gonna haunt his nightmares) and he could’ve had to spend the night in the hospital. There were any number of things that would make life a lot worse. 

But he still wasn’t very happy with the current reality. 

Closing his eyes, Kokichi opened his mouth as wide as he could, trying to make it easy for Kaito to pull his cotton out. 

Kaito was quick, because he didn’t have long, slender fingers. He had large hands and calloused fingers and he felt guilty as pushing his hand back there forced Kokichi’s mouth a little wider. “Real quick, real quick, real quick-” Kaito muttered, going to the back corners, pulling them out all at once. 

Once the cotton swabs were out, Kaito dumped them in a bag they were keeping at the foot of the bed, tossing them in. That done, he laughed, saying, “Alright, now a little bit of water, and we’ll put the new ones in, and hopefully that’ll help a little.”

Some water, some fresh swabs later, and Kaito picked up the spoon again. Filling it with broth.

“...I know todays been hard. But I’m still proud of you. None of this is easy.”

...the water did help a little. The thought had crossed his mind, but Kokichi had firmly decided against asking how much blood was on the cotton pads, if he was close to not having to use them. He...didn’t really want to know. Didn’t want to think about blood-soaked globs dropping from his…

Kokichi shuddered, but swallowed, coming forward to eat the broth. 

...it was a vegetable broth. ...it was nice of the folks in the kitchen to think of him like that. Blood wasn’t usually a taste in meat-based broths but...there was no mistaking the lack of it in vegetable broths. 

“...it is for anyone else… No special health complications...can get right on with their lives after the drugs wear off.” Kokichi sighed, but looked up at his husband, something attempting to be determined in his eyes. “...I can try for half the bowl.”

“Yeah? Awesome!” Kaito said, giving his husband a wide grin, insisting, “You got this babe. And you’re gonna feel loads better with a full belly. It’ll be worth it.”

As Kokichi swallowed a few more bites, Kaito thought about commenting on Kokichi’s little self-deprecating declarations. It wasn’t Kokichi’s fault he was sick… but he wasn’t sure if that was what Kokichi was even worried about. Maybe it wasn’t about fault. Maybe the guy was just...well, complaining to complain. There wasn’t anything actually wrong with that. His situation sucked. Kaito wouldn’t be helping by pointing out Kokichi wasn’t to blame for it. It still sucked regardless.

So, hoping to make Kokichi feel a little better, Kaito decided to try distraction instead. Filling the spoon again, Kaito said, “You said yesterday that Seiko got some...thing in the newspaper? And that was maybe why her store was doing better? I really can’t stress how busy it was, Kokichi...did you have something to do with all that?”

He hoped so. Things usually did seem a little better when he had some food in him...or it made him nauseous to the point he couldn’t do anything. But if his stomach didn’t rebel, then it was just another powerup to recovering faster. Better. 

Kokichi ate the spoonful, but he shook his head a little. “You did, actually.”

“You remember, a while back, you said something about nominating Seiko for an award? We don’t really have anything like that...but it gave me an idea.” Kokichi smiled softly at his husband, proud. While he had to stop every now and then for the next spoonful of broth, he kept explaining. “I posed a project to the newspaper guilds, about having a section, every now and then, outlining the work and achievements of someone in the community. Mainly, it’s to inspire other people with their own work, or to introduce them to new ideas and concepts, maybe colleagues to reach out to… Though...um.”

A bit of a blush centered around Kokichi’s nose, his cheeks already red from the swelling. “I...may have suggested Seiko for a segment. But it was all their research and decision to write about her.”

Kaito was momentarily taken aback by that. He remembered that conversation, but...hadn’t thought it had gone anywhere. Had left that whole discussion feeling a little stupid and embaressed, actually… heh. He supposed that was just like his husband. Finding some way to make use of an otherwise misguided suggestion… “That’s very cool, ‘Kichi.” Kaito praised, giving his husband an earnest look as he said, “I think that was a really nice thing to do for her. Stuff like that… a good word from someone people trust can go a long way… and Seiko’s more than earned a good word. Thanks for doing that…”

Kaito filled up another spoonful, saying cheerfully, “And also, you started a whole, like...section in a newspaper! Or article or something! That’s really cool! I bet a lot of people will benefit from something like that, not just our Seiko. So, that’ll be something that just keeps on benefitting people. That’s so awesome! You should be proud of that, ‘Kichi!”

Humming to himself slightly, offering Kokichi another bite, Kaito said after a moment, “We don’t have to talk about it now. I know you’re exhausted. But I promised Shuichi the other day we’d talk about his restrictions. I’m… considering suggesting lifting them entirely. I feel like we’ve just sorta hit a point where they’re not doing anything particularly useful, ya know? ...I mean. He’s… he’s not going to throw himself off a bridge, and… we can’t assume he’ll go running after pollen forever, right? Like, if we watch his movement because there’s a possibility he’ll seek it out, then...we’ll be watching him forever, right? That doesn’t seem feasible...”

“Again, we don’t have to talk about it now. I just wanted to give you a heads up of where my head was at there. Give you time to think about it.”

Kokichi’s blush deeped for a moment before he just nodded with a soft grin. He had been happy to hear that Seiko’s pharmacy was already seeing a boom in foot-traffic. He hadn’t thought it’d have such a huge, noticeable difference, let alone so quickly, but… Well, he had Kaito to thank for that. For spurring a change. 

His smile turned into a look of confusion however, before Kokichi rolled his eyes upwards, looking exasperated at himself. 

Listening to Kaito’s thoughts, Kokichi nodded along before giving Kaito a gentle smile. “Would you believe it--Shuu-chan and I talked about his restrictions during the festival. Said I’d bring it up so we could all have a meeting.” He sighed, shaking his head at himself. “Your dumbass husband completely forgot to bring it up.”

With a sigh, Kokichi smiled brighter up at Kaito. “I’m glad to hear that’s the way you’re thinking--I was on the same page. While I’d like to just lift the restrictions completely...I would understand if we all decided on another step in between. I promised Shuu-chan I’d vie at the very least for him to be able to go to the university on his own.”

“...he’s doing a lot better. And we’re not waiting for him to just...be perfectly okay? Because no one ever is.” Kokichi looked down for a moment, grasping onto his blankets, before looking back up at Kaito with a more determined look. “But...I trust him to tell us when he needs help, and I can trust that if something happens, then it was completely out of Shuu-chan’s control. That it wasn’t him making a decision he knew was going to be bad for him. That’s just...living. So...when we talk to Maki-chan, I wanna push for getting rid of the last restrictions. Or, at least, just having very loose ones.”

Katio frowned slightly, before bobbing the spoon lightly on Kokichi’s nose. “You’re not dumb, don’t say stuff like that.” before going to refill the spoon. They were actually managing to make their way through the bowl now, now that Kokichi seemed more warmed up to it. They might even manage to make it past halfway empty…

The Luminary Prince grinned, heart swelling with pride as he murmured, “That’s right...our Shuichi’s going to university. I forgot about that… that’s so exciting. I really hope he loves it…”

He nodded, listening to Kokichi work out his reasoning. When Kokichi brought up mistakes outside of Shuichi’s control, Kaito interrupted for a moment, saying quickly, thinking of very recent events, “And, even if there's things within his control...things that I think might be side effects to his time on the pollen…” like emulating the actions of the person who had most helped and most hurt him during that time, “I think he’s put together enough by this point to recognize when that’s happening and fix it, ya know? Like, it’s okay if he fucks up, so long as he recognizes that he’s fucked up without, like...any of us fucking putting him in a headlock about it, ya know? I don’t know. Maybe that’s just my bias talking. I love him a lot...I think that knowing he messed up and fixing it  should count…”

(Kaito, really, genuinely did not see how that mentality could apply to his own shortcomings, or the shortcomings of people he didn’t like. In his mind, those things didn’t equal out. Shuichi deserved every chance in the universe, because...he was Shuichi and Kaito loved him and that was all Kaito needed to know.)

However, when Kokichi brought up Shuichi knowing he could come to them for help… while Nao’s sins and the sins of his loved ones, including Shuichi, including himself, would never, never feel equal in Kaito’s mind, literally nothing but hate for the woman in his heart, nothing even resembling personal forgiveness even having a shred of a chance getting through all that hatred inside of him… he could recognize that Shuichi and Kokichi and...maybe even Maki? Didn’t feel the same way. And that acting on those feelings probably had more of a chance of hurting them then it even did her (because she was a cold, heartless, fucking evil bitch who had had the AUDACITY to not even look ASHAMED-)...and Kaito shook his head a little, trying to work past that sudden spike of rage…

There is a rock in your pocket. You polish it well. You picked it because it reminded you of your loved ones. You keep track of your anger because you love them, and want to do right by them. There is a rock in your pocket…

When he felt better, he tried to remember what he had been thinking about that had led to that...oh, right.

Shuichi going to them for help.

“...hey, Kokichi?” Kaito said, brow furrowed. “...is Shuichi afraid of me?”

Kokichi nodded slowly, considering Kaito’s point. Sometimes people just made mistakes, not because they were misinformed of anything, but...just because they were people, and people did irrational things sometimes. That wasn’t a reason to punish anyone, beyond them hurting others or breaking the law. “Alright… Well, I trust Shuu-chan to try and fix his mistakes too. That’s part of life as well, and if it turns out too big for him to fix? Then we’re here for that too.”

Decided on that, Kokichi was...a little off guard from the question Kaito asked, just blinking at him in shock for a moment. “No?”

...librarian-murder rages…

He sighed and...tried to consider Kaito’s point of view more. “I don’t think he’s afraid of you. There are just...some problems that he’d prefer other solutions to than the ones you’d provide. Kai-chan has a lot of good ideas, but no person is perfect for every situation. I think...that might stress him out sometimes, but it’s not fear…”

He sighed. “That’s just my guess though. If you want to know for sure...then that’s something you two need to talk about.”

Kaito sighed. “I know. I’m just worried if I asked him, I wouldn’t get a straight answer. It’s hard to tell someone you love that you’re scared of them… it can feel like a betrayal. I just didn’t want to put him in a position where he felt like that. Figured if there was anyone he’d confide to about it, it’d be you.”

Kaito looked at the bowl. Halfway done. Without commenting on it, he filled the spoon again. If he congratulated Kokichi for making it this far, his husband might snap out of whatever mentality was allowing him to do it. Best just wait for him to notice. “So, if he hasn’t told you that he’s afraid of me? Well...alright then. I just don’t want him to feel like he can’t come to us about stuff, just because I go r’awwwwr, sometimes.”

Kaito suddenly laughed, an unexpectedly pleasant memory of his father being triggered by that. When Kaito had been very small, and had been allowed (and willing) to go hang out in the war room, sometimes his father would randomly grab him, making fake little growling sounds, while tickling Kaito’s sides. He had done this at odd times, sometimes literally in the middle of debriefings with his generals, or during important policy talks with the secretaries: he’d be in the middle of a serious, somber atmosphere, look over to his small son, and just suddenly grab the boy. Startling Kaito and making him laugh, and when Kaito would be put down, he’d run off, making a show like he was hiding, watching his father with bright, ecstatic eyes. 

His father never chased him, but Kaito didn’t need him too. The occasional attention was enough. It had made sitting in the war room, listening to scary things, worth it. For that occasional bit of attention. 

It was that good feeling that made him say, with a small smirk, “You were super cute yesterday.”

“True… I guess it doesn’t hurt to ask me. But if you’re having doubts like that, then I still think it’s something you two should talk about.” Kokichi sighed a bit but shrugged, looking up at Kaito with a mildly pleasant expression. “Shuu-chan likes to think out...well, everything on his own. I can just hope that once he gets it sorted in his head, then he’ll come to us. The more heads the better the answer, I’ve always thought, but if he just wants to come to the person he thinks is best...well, then he’s still getting help, and that’s all that matters in the end.”

Still patiently eating every spoonful that Kaito brought forward, Kokichi gave his husband a curious look at the sudden laugh, but groaned and went to cover his ears when he changed the subject. “No, I don’t want to hear it. Any embarrassing stuff can just be left to the realm of memories, never to be spoken again, or at least not to me!”

“Plus, whatever you think as cute can be literally anything,” he sighed, bringing his hands down. It was just a little too uncomfortable to even touch near his cheeks right now. 

Kaito frowned at that, saying defensibly, “Hey! I have standards! Some things aren’t cute...you, however, just happen to be adorable. Sue me.”

Then, after a moment…. “Heheh...nya nya…” before blushing, snickering like a fiend.

Kokichi narrowed his eyes, feeling the itch to ask just what the hell Kaito was saying...but he really didn’t want to know. With a huff, he laid back down against the pillows. “I’m full for now. Can Kai-chan read more of the Circleworld book and cuddle me? I don’t really feel like going back to sleep…”

Kaito looked at the more than halfway done bowl and decided not to insist on any more. Honestly, he was thrilled they had gotten down that much. Kaito nodded, and then, knowing Kokichi didn’t like to waste food, he took the bowl to his own lips and gulped the rest of it down in two large swallows. He’d bring up more later, so Kokichi would have the option to eat later if his appetite came back, but that bowl was done for, for now. 

...and yeah, Kokichi was right. The broth could be a little stronger. Chaki would know what to do.

Putting the bowl aside, he grinned “Heck yeah we can. I’m gonna make a leap in logic and say you don’t remember any of it from yesterday? You were pretty out of it. So, we’ll start back up with the pit…” Kaito said, reaching over to snag the book, before settling in beside Kokichi, offering himself as another pillow, though he wasn’t sure if his achey husband could lie in his seemingly favorite position (that was, half draped over Kaito, using pecs as a soft spot to rest his head and sapping all of Kaito’s body heat). Still, the offer was there, and Kaito picking up Kokichi’s hand for a moment, kissing him gently on his pinky knuckle, before saying, “I’m thankful you ate. You’re being really strong, Kokichi. I’m very proud of you. I love you babe.”

“Alright, so...Chapter nine: Vimes had once been literally in the belly of a beast, and somehow, this dark, dank hole in seemingly the bottom of the earth still felt more confining and claustrophobic…”

Kokichi had enough in him to set the extra bowl and the towel to the side on a nightstand, clearing the bed for some nice relaxation. His mouth still hurt and he had a feeling before long that awful metallic taste would be back, but...it would be okay. Every day would be better than the last, and slowly he’d get back to normal. Now without extra teeth messing everything up. 

Snuggling down under the covers, Kokichi settled himself on his back, leaning on Kaito’s side but not right on top of him, regrettably. That was one of the things he was most looking forward to when the swelling went down. Being able to snuggle Kaito and Shuuichi properly…

Part of Kokichi bristled, wanting to lash out against the patronizing words...but he knew that there wasn’t a hint of pity in Kaito, at least in regards to that. His husband was just...genuinely proud. 

“...I’m sorry I get testy and snippy at you… Kai-chan’s just trying to help. I appreciate it and...if I mess up and turn my ire on you, I’ll always do what I can to make up for it. I never mean it. My lovely, sweet, helpful Kai-chan… I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

He wasn’t ready for sleep, but it was awkward trying to see the book in his position, so Kokichi just closed his eyes, letting Kaito’s voice fill his head and feed his imagination. 

-

Timothy was in agony. 

Total misery. 

He had crawled into the prince’s bedroom late after school, desperately hoping for more ice cream to sooth his wounds. Kokichi had let him have some, and it was Kaito who had guessed that Timothy was upset about the spelling bee, and asked him about it. Expecting the issue was Karl being a dipshit again and ready to offer some sympathy.

Kaito had been shocked when Timothy had miserably answered, “I won the stupid class spelling bee.”

Shuichi literally barked out a laugh, before lowering the cap over his head, snickering helplessly as Kaito just stared at Timothy in shock…. Before scooping him up into a hug, “Kid!! That’s great!! I’m so proud of you!!!”

“Nooooo.” Timothy grumbled, not even trying to fight off Kaito this time, just allowing his body to rag doll around in his fathers far too enthusiastic arms. “This means I have to do the school spelling bee… I don’t want to…”

Maki, in turn, was practically fucking glowing. There was a certain lightness to her that turned her usual neutral/vicious/resting-bitch-face into something almost smug, as she said, “Well, you’ll just have to study for that one as well.”

“Nooooo…”

“No?” Maki said, a flash of heat radiating off her.

Timothy sighed. “...yes mom.”

“But! You also deserve a reward for doing well! Maki, you got any ideas?” Kaito asked, putting Tim down, who just looked like he wanted to collapse where he stood, Done with a capital D.

Maki thought about it, before nodding, “I’ll go ask Kimoko and Cali’s parents if it’s okay tomorrow morning when I drop you off, but I’ll take you and your friends somewhere fun to eat tomorrow. If you behave yourself, we can stop by the store on the way back and you can pick out something you want.”

“I want to not be in the spelling bee…”

“”Tough. This is a good opportunity to prove yourself in something academic. I expect you to take it.” Maki shrugged, before saying sofly, “You should go tell Miss Kawai. I bet she’ll be thrilled as well.”

“...yeah.” Timothy sighed, heading to the door, resigned to his fate, “Okay.”

Turning to the others, Maki said, “We eating dinner in here? Dining hall should be about ready to serve, if you want me to go fetch them?”

Kokichi hadn’t hesitated a moment upon seeing Tim’s distraught expression. It wasn’t actually a solution, but things tended to feel a little better with ice cream, and for whatever was ailing his nephew, he was happy to be the bearer of permission. 

However, it wasn’t really a problem that had gotten Tim down. 

Kokichi lit up, a grin as wide as he could manage stretching across his face as he beamed at his nephew. “That’s amazing, Tim! I knew you had it in you! After all the studying you guys did...it’s really great to see your effort turn into a win.”

Stage fright might still be an issue...but thankfully the school one was a little more low-key still. Sure, parents were invited to watch if they so chose, but it wasn’t a big production. But as long as Tim did his best, Kokichi would be beyond proud. Even winning the class one was incredible. 

Caught up in that bright, bubbly mood, it was a little difficult to focus himself. Giving a sheepish look to Maki, Kokichi nodded. “If you guys wouldn’t mind...I’m not quite feeling up to the dining hall yet. And...when we do? Maki-chan? Could we all have a discussion about Shuu-chan’s restrictions?”

A clear look of alarm spiked through Shuichi’s face for a moment, before settling into something contemplative. He had asked Kokichi to bring this up at some point, but he had still been caught off guard by it. He looked over Maki and Kaito’s faces, trying to guess what both of them were thinking in the initial moments. Kaito looked surprised, but pleased. That was...probably a good sign.

...Maki looked pensive. That was probably a bad sign.

But she nodded, saying, “We’ll do that. Let me go get our food, and we can start as soon as I get back.”

As she left, there was an awkward silence… before Shuichi asked, entirely uncertain, “...so? Should I...eat somewhere else?”

“No.” Kaito said, deciding on his own. “We only didn’t involve you in the last discussion because, well…” Kaito gave his boyfriend a slightly guilty look, as he said, “I’m not going to blow your mind if I say you were...on placebos for a while there, am I bud?”

Shuichi sighed, shaking his head. “No. I know that now. Seiko talked to me about it.”

Kaito huffed out a small breath of relief, before nodding. “We couldn’t talk about that stuff in front of you. That’s the only reason you weren’t there last time. But no more secrets, on either of our ends. We’re gonna work out what to do next with all our cards on the table.”

...hmm. All of his friends’ reactions were a little surprising. Kokichi guessed Shuuichi just hadn’t been expecting it now, but...he had promised to have this discussion. And Kaito was the one to remind him, so he didn’t know why he was surprised. Maki looking thoughtful...well, it wasn’t her shutting down the conversation, saying that there was no need, so it was probably a good sign. 

And it was a conversation they were all going to be a part of this time. Kaito explained the last time well and Kokichi nodded along. “Shuu-chan knows himself best. I know we already talked about how you’re doing...but it’s good for all of us to know. And once we all lay out our thoughts, then we can see what the best path they outline is.”

Kokichi propped himself up against his pillows more, the bow on the onesie bouncing against his chest. He...actually wasn’t really tasting blood, but just in case… 

“Hey, could one of you help me change out the cotton before we eat? It’s weird when it’s all soggy already…”

“I’ll do it, Kokichi.” Shuichi volunteered, taking the chair that was now permanently sat next to the bed for this exact reason, the bag of old cotton, which would need to be disposed of later, when Kokichi was asleep, still under the bed at its foot. There wasn’t that much cotton left, and while they might just want to get more, as Kokichi obligingly opened his mouth for him, Shuichi looked over the cotton. There were a few spots still, but in comparison to the sheer soaked, red bulks the cotton was before, Shuichi got the sense this was maybe the cotton just catching the last remnants of the wound, rather than Kokichi’s mouth still actively bleeding.

But, well, Shuichi would keep his thought to himself, and wait for the cotton to come away without any red at all before suggesting that Kokichi didn’t need them any more. Taking the fresh cotton, he put it in the back corner of his mouth, taking his hand out and giving Kokichi a gentle kiss on his cheek. “Done.”

Kaito, in turn, went to pull the window seat up, feeling both hopeful and pensive. He was looking forward to another step towards normalcy, and Shuichi having agency of himself was a part of that normalcy. 

(...he just hoped he wasn’t going to look back at this ocnversation one day and feel, like, so fucking stupid…he hoped he was right to say Shuichi was ready.)

Shuichi, in turn, was trying not to get his hopes up one way or another. Maki had clearly had misgivings on her face. And, well...while his friends had agreed Kokichi was in charge of his recovery, Shuichi knew that neither Kokichi or Kaito really had it in them to shut down Maki, if she really insisted. They just didn’t have her force of personality. She was the person he really had to convince…

There was a small kick at the door, and Kaito went to open it up for said ex-assassin, Maki bringing in a tray of food. Kaito sniffed the air, smelling the hot scent of spice, and grinned, “Hey, there we go...knew Chaki wouldn’t let me down.”

Maki had gotten herself, Shuichi and Kaito the dinner everyone was getting that night, but Kokichi had gotten broth that was orange in its spicing, and with it a roll of sweet bread. Kaito collected Kokichi’s place and bowl, leaving behind his own food for now as Maki put them on the desk, and heading over to the chair, said, “Trade seats, handsome?”

Shuichi nodded, getting up, Kaito taking the seat and presenting the food to his husband, saying, “What do you think? Got an appetite?”

Kokichi closed his eyes and tipped his head forward slightly, already used to the routine, even if he could only remember doing it for about a day. He remembered...some stuff about yesterday. Being tucked into bed. Eating dinner and ice cream. He had ended up in the onesie, but that wasn’t really a memory… It was weird. Maybe he’d remember more as time went on. 

Once Maki returned, Kokichi took a deep breath, the smell of broth overpowering the main dishes Maki had gotten for everyone else, and while his mouth wasn’t coated...he was really looking forward to it. It smelled delicious. 

He nodded his head eagerly, even scooting himself over to Kaito more. “Sure do! Don’t know if I can eat the bread,” he lamented, giving the roll a disappointed look, “but that broth smells amazing. I think I wanna try for the whole bowl.”

“And, um…” He wasn’t back to full strength. Not by a long shot. But Kokichi had felt more confident moving himself around in bed, so… “Once the bowl gets a little lighter, I wanna try eating by myself. Can let Kai-chan get back to his own meal.”

Kaito really didn’t mind waiting, knowing that once he was ready to eat, he’d inhale it all. But, he was more than happy to let Kokichi flex, if his husband was feeling steadier. Giving him a pleased nod, Kaito said, “You got it, beautiful. Alright, now… Maki, Shuichi? You guys settled in?”

Shuichi, nodding, was sitting on the end of the bed, and Maki was sitting on the window seat. The two pseudo-siblings glanced at each other, something wary in both their glances… before Shuichi sighed, and Maki’s gaze hardened, nodding. 

Kaito gave both of them patient looks, before saying, “Shuichi? Maybe it’d be a good idea to let you start. What are you hoping for today?”

“...” Shuichi lowered his cap uncomfortably, thinking to himself...before saying, voice soft, “...is it okay to say I want all the restrictions off?”

Offering Kokichi a spoonful of broth, Kaito shook his head. “No, dude, you’re allowed to want that. That’s not too much. If that’s what you want, we’ll talk about that.”

Kokichi ate his first spoonful, the flavors dancing on his tongue and not leaving him even a moment to think of any other taste. Something that he could’ve eaten happily even that morning, really, if he hadn’t felt nauseous from the start. But while good food deserved to be appreciated, there was something else going on that deserved his attention more. 

Giving Shuuichi a soft look, Kokichi nodded. “The fact that you want them off is a good sign, Shuu-chan. You’re not in the trenches anymore, so that you feel safe enough to want to take the training wheels off...it’s a good sign for your mental health.”

“So...Shuu-chan and I talked about this before, but… I would love to just say, yupp! No more restrictions, Shuu-chan can do whatever he wants. However…” Kokichi’s soft look moved over to Maki, giving her a nod. “That’s a little too optimistic. We shouldn’t operate everything on an ‘all or nothing’ mentality. But, I think it’s worth talking about loosening Shuu-chan’s restrictions. Right now, some of them just...seem like a needless after-thought, rather than anything that has a purpose in keeping him safe.”

“Personally, I’m at the point where I trust Shuu-chan to be responsible for himself. For his well-being and autonomy and his mistakes. That doesn’t mean that you don’t need help at all, ‘cause no one is ever at that point, but...I think that you can exact reasonable judgment to ask for help when you need it.”

For the sake of having an open conversation, Kokichi looked to Maki, Kaito, and Shuuichi. “How are you all thinking in that vein?”

There was silence, for a moment, all of the family trying to think about what they were going to say before they actually did so, no one wanting to say anything they’d regret...before Kaito huffed, deciding to just go all in and say, “I’m gonna be the one that advocates for the too optimistic idea. I think Shuichi’s restrictions should be lifted entirely.”

Maki sighed, “Katio…”

“No, let me get my thought out! Look, so… I think it could be argued that if we lesson the restrictions, then the ones we enforce aren’t actually enforceable anyway? Like, okay, Shuichi?” Kaito said, looking to his boyfriend, “Have you even tried to leave the castle, since we started doing this?”

Shuichi’s row furrowed, before shaking his head, “No… not on my own, I mean…”

“Right! So, here’s my thing on that. I know Maki asked the guard force to help us enforce this… based on everything I know about Diceans, by this point?” Kaito said, rubbing the back of his neck for a moment, before offering Kokichi another spoonful, “I am not...super confident that anyone would have actually helped us reinforce this, if Shuichi had tested it. And, as much as we want too, the three of us can’t keep an eye on you twenty-four seven. So, even the restriction we have now? Is honor based anyway.”

Shuichi didn’t know what to say to that. It...hadn’t occurred to him to test to see if the guards would actually stop him at the gate… he didn’t know if Kaito had a point or not.

Kokichi nodded slowly, thinking about Kaito’s point. “Still… The only reason to do things isn’t because someone told you to, and the only reason not to do something isn’t just because it’s illegal. If we’re moving onto an honor system? Then it’s good habit building. Making sure that we know where each other--or just Shuu-chan, in this case--are and if we plan to deviate from our normal routines.”

“...but if Shuu-chan has already been abiding by an honor system...then that’s a track record to look to. He’s not constantly looking for an opportunity to hurt himself, he’s not biding his time to go get pollen…” Kokichi smiled softly. “Being able to go to town on his own… I mean, you can tell us yourself, but… I can kinda just imagine Shuu-chan going to class on his own, maybe deciding to pick up Tim sometimes, getting a drink somewhere or a bite to eat, picking something up at a store… Do you have anything that you’d want to do in town that we’d even think of to ward you away?”

Shuichi was playing with his nails, feeling a little exposed by this conversation (and a little befuddled at the idea that...he really coulda just left? At any point? Especially at the early points in all this, Shuichi really had been following all the rules out of a real fear that the guards would stop him, or at least report him…). But, he really didn’t...think he wanted pollen anymore. He was almost certain he didn’t. And beyond that, what danger was there in letting him leave the castle?

And...having the ability to do all that stuff Kokichi was saying… his heart hurt, at how badly he wanted those options...to just have the choice…

...but…

Shuichi looked down at his hands. He mumbled something.

Maki sighed, “Speak up, Shuichi. Please.”

Shuichi swallowed, before saying louder, “...Nao...I’d be really tempted to seek Nao out…”

Kaito grit his teeth, and Maki, who still hadn’t really said anything, looked away, also not looking happy about this. Kaito gripped the spoon, a vein in his temple throbbing, a growl in the back of his throat...before he closed his eyes and took his breath. Remembering the crystal...and saying, “...I really, really don’t want you to do that...but...that’s…” Kaito grit his teeth harder, “not...you’re not...we don’t have a fucking...right to control...who you see and all that. So long as that fucking bitch...doesn’t feed you pollen? That’s not...something we can keep you locked away for.”

Shuichi’s eyes widened at that, looking over at Kaito in stunned surprise. Kaito didn’t look over at him, still looking like he wanted to punch something...before filling the spoon full of broth, saying with a scowl, “Though you still shouldn’t fucking seek her out. That’s a really bad fucking idea...”

He knew, but...it wasn’t his place to say. It was Shuuichi’s, with all of his feelings. Ones that...unfairly, Kokichi knew would provoke their friends, but… 

He looked over in surprise, his expression melting into a soft pride. Even through his anger over Nao...Kaito wasn’t letting that anger explode out on his friends. And regardless of why that change had happened...Kokichi was proud. 

Taking his next spoonful, Kokichi nodded until he could swallow. “Personally, I agree. But...that’s just our advice as friends, Shuu-chan. Not a...decree, or something.” And he’d told Shuuichi all his thoughts about that already, so he didn’t need to go deep into it, but just saying that was enough to show where he stood. 

Nodding to Maki, Kokichi prompted, “Maki-chan? I have a feeling that you feel differently. What are the dangers that are worrying you?”