i had a dream where i was in a resturant and then i saw red son wearing a shirt with porty surfing w/ the trans flag behind him. it is now a reality (or i mean the design is real atleast…) Now with flavors of Skateboard!

time 4 yet another wavernot4love gig recap, gloomtown rochester edition (aka my seventh time seeing idkhow, fourth in rochester, & third at the montage music hall, the latter two a feat i cannot say for many bands) (note this was typed primarily at three am last night so once again there is probably incoherent rambling):

- gonna start this off with this clip of sunnyside since 1. i think that is becoming my favorite song off gloom division and 2. the ending gives me a chuckle

- boring live finally came back 2 me after four long years!!!!

- (dallon neurodivergency mention when talking about the themes of gloom division) (crowd erupts in cheers)

- return of the mormon tabernacle choir comparison arrived post- a letter, with dallon saying the next song (what love) wasn't something they tell you about in church, in typical cheeky fashion

- somewhat related, bro was wearing a gold sparkly grandma cardigan and randomly ripped it off and threw it CLEAN through the doorway of the like, green room at montage mid- what love. speaking of he said people at the vip earlier apparently planned his outfit

- dallon straight up grabbed a kid by the hand mid song and yanked them out of the crowd & onstage so they could do a lil jig together? good for them!!!

- going to leave the dallon quote "this isn't a frat house!" here w/o context

- someone handed him a giant american flag with a picture of him printed on it. god bless america

- ALL OF THE BRACELETS/KEYCHAINS WENT? after the show maybe 40 of us camped outside in case dallon came out and at one point someone who had reached out about them came over & so did a BUNCH of other folks who realized there were, in fact, bracelets. my cousin referred to it as the "meet & greet" since there were barricades set up along the sidewalk which gave me a bit of a laugh. guess i'm making more for buffalo yippee!!!! possibly may make stickers too later if i have time. i'll probably post em, but otherwise look for the person w curly hair & a baggy black thought reform hoodie w bracelets on a carabiner!

- so while we were waiting my cousin and i were sat RIGHT next to the main entrance of montage, right? basically the start of a sort of line of people sat down going down the sidewalk.

anyways, at one point only maybe 45 minutes after the show, out of said main entrance strolls dallon. collective whiplash moment as bro took one look, stopped dead in his tracks, we all collectively looked at each other like

and dallon (who i think was truly surprised so many of us were out waiting in the cold) goes, lightheartedly but genuinely, "what are you guys doing all out here? it's freezing outside!"

and then proceeds to kinda frolick around for a couple minutes laughing w people or whatever. we didn't really approach him since i think he was a bit overwhelmed but it was still just a funny moment and we'll see what happens in buffalo! maybe less people will hang after so it'll be less intimidating for him.

- i do feel the need to mention i heard this one kid we were talking to bring up video games to him & dallon said he's not a huge video games person he just plays the last of us & spiderman really which is funny to me but fitting

- i did bring my point & shoot so once i edit those maybe i'll post some!

anyways, stoked on tomorrow's show yay!!!

| caffeine |     [chapter 8]

pairing; fratboy!wonwoo x female!reader

this chapter’s notes; usage of toys in public, overstimulation, oral(female receiving), anal play, forced orgasms 🥴🥴 we r back everyone! 💕💕 thank you to everyone who’s been so patient since we took a one week break from updates!! 💕💕💕💕 let’s get it!! 

chapters; 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - x - x

Wonwoo gets accepted to go on his archaeology trip next semester which doesn’t surprise you at all but does leave you feeling a little sadder than you anticipated.

And he tells you in the midst of eating you out, hands gripping your thighs as he laps at your clit.

“W--wait, Wonwoo--mmh!”

Your fingers tug on his short hair just as he sucks on your clit; a garbled moan spilling out of your lips as your thighs threaten to clamp shut with his head between them. But he feels you tremble, shooting you a look before he pries your legs open further, holding them still as he continues to eat you out on top of the study table.

“Wuh--wait! So, that m-means you’ll be leaving in like t-two months?” He moans against you, flicking at your clit with the tip of his tongue before he licks his lips clean.

“Yeah, maybe a little bit sooner depending on what prepwork needs to be done.”

“Hmm… ‘m gonna miss you kinda. Maybe just your dick but kinda you too.”

Wonwoo chuckles, adjusting his glasses for a second before he brings his index and middle fingers to his mouth to wet them.

He pops the digits out of his mouth when he deems them wet enough, bringing them to your entrance before he slowly sinks them into you, curling them upward until they tap your g-spot.

“I’m gonna miss your pussy too, sweetheart.”

“Hey, can you put this book down on the third shelf to the right?”

Wonwoo hands you a book to reshelf and you wonder how he even managed to convince you to stick around after he went down on you. Most often than not, it was a quick rendezvous and you or he left. But you think maybe part of you is feeling a little sentimental now that you know he’s going to be gone for a while.

“Right here?”

“Mmhmm.”

The cart of books grows smaller and smaller as the two of you continue to put them away, small idle conversation helping to fill up the otherwise quiet space.

“Any big plans before you leave for, like, three months?” Wonwoo ponders for a second, turning to face you.

“Well, the guys wanted to go to some 21+ beer festival-thing next weekend. You should come with. Maybe you can help me handle them all.” He laughs lightly, a genuine smile plastered on his face when he thinks about the others.

“Are you gonna miss ‘em?” This time Wonwoo scoffs, jokingly rolling his eyes before he walks over to the nearly empty book cart.

“Are you kidding? I’m probably going to have some peace and quiet for the first time in my adult life. I'll be more concerned about having to come back after three months.”

The festival day comes up sooner than you expected; having filled up the time with finishing projects and helping Mingyu not fail his.

You wait in front of the gates, a little uneasy since it was all of SVT House and yourself.

What if someone sees me and thinks I’m the SVT House whore or something, fuck. You panic unnecessarily for a second, wondering if there’s a way for you to escape but you hear Mingyu’s voice calling your name, turning to the side to see the entire group. Too late.

“Hey, ‘Gyu.” You meet him in a hug, Minghao coming soon after until Wonwoo steps in front of you. The others coo at the two of you, jokingly calling you the ‘lovebirds’ before they start walking to the ticketing kiosks, leaving you and Wonwoo alone.

“You know how they are.” “Mm, yeah unfortunately.”

You chuckle, walking with Wonwoo to the ticketing kiosks where he pays for your ticket. “Hey, what the fuck? You never buy us anything!!” The blonde one you’d seen in passing screeches. Soonyoung.

Wonwoo rolls his eyes, handing you your ticket which you thank him for. “She’s the only girl here, I’m trying to be a gentleman.” You can’t help but blush at his words, walking with the rest of them through the security check. Mingyu sends you a greasy smirk, just as you quickly flip him off.

All of you get through security with no issues, Seungcheol doing a headcount to make sure everyone’s there before he starts leading the way into the festival grounds. There’s a few amusement park rides thrown in the mix of game booths and alcohol stalls as well and you’re semi-glad it’s a 21+ event only; something was telling you things could get messy.

Wonwoo tugs on your elbow not a second after, curiosity plastered on your face when you turn to face him. “Before we… get started, I have a gift for you.” He smirks, pulling out a small box from his pocket before placing it in the palm of your hands.

You barely open it for a split-second before you quickly put the cover back on, cheeks hot as you stare up at the fox-eyed male. “How the fuck did you get this through security!?” You whisper harshly. He chuckles quietly, pulling the remote from his pocket as he spins the keychain loop around his index finger.

“Dunno, guess sex toys don’t make the sensor go off.”

He tells the others that the two of you were going to head to the restrooms really quick, telling Seungcheol to text him their location while he waits for you.

The blush eats you alive when you slip into a restroom stall, hiking up your dress slightly to pull down your normal panties to replace them with the vibrating panties that Wonwoo had somehow gotten through security. You could already feel yourself getting slightly wet; the thrill of him controlling your orgasms in a public place suddenly extremely hot. And the toy sits directly on your clit, a small shiver running up your spine as you adjust it before gathering your things and leaving. Wonwoo meets you outside, eyebrow quirked as he grins. “Let’s give it a try, hmm?”

The vibrations hit you hard and fast, a choked noise all you can muster in the three seconds he turns it on and off. “Oh, seems like it's working well.”

When the two of you meet up with the rest of the guys, they’re at a game booth trying to win some stuffed animal.

You feel mildly on edge now that you knew Wonwoo could turn the toy on at any second, a cold sweat on your skin as you stand in between Minghao and Wonwoo. “That took you awhile. You guys weren’t… doing anything unsavory were you?” You grit your teeth; Wonwoo having turned on the toy on its lowest level just as Minghao finished asking.

“No? We’re literally here to eat and maybe get a little drunk. Cut me some slack, ‘Hao. When have you ever seen me acting out in public?” Minghao nods slowly at Wonwoo’s words, eyeing you before he clears his throat.

“Ok, I mean… Yeah, I guess that’s true.”

Wonwoo shifts the vibration intensity higher, your legs twitching underneath your dress. You can feel your body tensing up, pussy clenching around nothingness as the toy assaults your clit. “Don’t you have anything to say to defend yourself?” Minghao jokes, jabbing you with his elbow.

“W--what? N-no… I mean, I just, I--I needed to use the restroom. There was a line and y-yeah...” You blabber, hands clenched into fists on your sides. Wonwoo eases up, turning the toy off just as your body slumps forward slightly.

“You okay, though? You seem tired.” Minghao’s voice is filled with worry as he places his hand on your shoulder. “Yeah! I’m good, just slept kinda weird last night so I might seem a ‘lil tired today!” He buys it, thankfully, turning his attention back to the others just as Seungcheol wins the stuffed animal.

“For the sweet lady.”

Seungcheol winks, handing you the small stuffed bear just as Wonwoo sets the vibration to the maximum level, forcing an orgasm out of you in a matter of seconds just as you choke out a small ‘thank you’ towards Seungcheol.

You grit your teeth hard, nails digging into the poor stuffed animal you were gifted. “What’cha gonna name it?” You meet the eyes of Seokmin, a cheery smile on his face. Wonwoo turns the toy off again, a soft chuckle fluttering by.

“I don’t know.”

Thankfully you do manage to have fun; momentarily forgetting about the toy. And Wonwoo seems to forget about it for a bit too, enjoying the drinks as you all stop at stalls to grab different beers to try in between all of your conversations.

One of the younger ones, Seungkwan, suggests getting on one of the rides; queueing up in front of the merry-go-round near-by.

“This is supposed to be, like, a wine and cheese festival but we have beer and children’s rides. Who even came up with this?” Vernon asks, genuinely curious.

“Broke college kids who can’t afford wine and cheese but can afford cheap beer and free rides and need escapism.” Everyone nods sadly at Jeonghan’s words, unfortunately very true. 

And much like you expect, the small vibrations come back; Wonwoo having set it on the lowest setting while you all waited in line. “We should go sit and eat for a bit after this. My feet are kinda killing me.” Jun complains, but everyone agrees, deciding to take a little break after the ride to finally eat something.

“Yeah, honestly, I’m full of beer, I need something to eat.” Joshua whines.

Wonwoo turns the vibrations up a level, your thighs rubbing together under your dress as you sneakily shift from one foot to the other. He calls your name loud enough to get the attention of everyone else, their eyes on you as you mentally curse at him.

“What do you feel like eating? We should let you choose.” The others nod, a sly smirk plastered on his features. “Geez hyung, you’re really trying to put on that gentlemanly charm, huh?” Chan teases. You laugh awkwardly, a bead of sweat trickling down your temple as you wipe it away.

Gentleman, my ass.

“I--um, I--I saw a pretzel stall we p-passed by, it se--seems like it’d go well w-with drinks…”

The others agree just as you’re all let onto the merry-go-round, sitting on one of the horses next to Wonwoo. The ride starts soon after; the others laughing and cracking jokes almost immediately as they all sit in front of you. Wonwoo’s eyes glint with mischief when your eyes meet, your hand covering your mouth as you let out a choked cry.

At the angle you’re sitting in, the toy presses harder against your clit and almost like Wonwoo knows that, he sets the toy to the highest level again. And this time, you can’t help but grind against it, thankful that you could mask your movements on the god-forsaken ride. “W-Wonwoo…” You whisper. He barely catches it over the ride’s music, smirking as he only mouths the word ‘cum’ to you.

A shiver runs up your spine when you finally cum this time, toes curling in your sandals as you bite your lip to hold in any noises. You sit up pin straight on your horse, your entire body twitching at your second orgasm. But it doesn’t last long, much like your first one. Wonwoo turns off the toy again, just as the ride starts to come to a stop and you release the breath you didn’t know you were holding.

“Need some help down, m’lady?” This time it’s Mingyu offering his hand which you shakily take, palm clammy when you place yours in his. “Jesus, are you okay? Why is your palm so sweaty?”

“Yeah, m’fine, I think the beer is getting to me.” He pouts at you, rubbing your back slightly as he ushers your wobbly body off of the ride. “You know what’ll fix that? More beer but also some food, finally.”

You and Mingyu fall into idle conversation; Wonwoo giving you a break that you deserve after forcing two orgasms out of you. And eventually you find the pretzel stall, thankful that there’s empty tables around as you all find a seat.

You sit at a table with Wonwoo by your side, Jihoon and Mingyu sitting on the opposite side.

“We’ll go in pairs or something, so we don’t lose our seats.” You nod at Seungcheol’s suggestion, just thankful you can finally sit and catch your breath. Mingyu and Jihoon get up first, leaving the two of you alone again.

“Having fun, sweetheart?” The tone in Wonwoo’s voice is provoking, your head tilting slightly to look at him and glare. “You’re actually the devil. Gentlemanly, my fucking ass.” You whisper harshly. The stuffed toy in your hands gets squeezed hard again, Wonwoo prying it out from between your iron grip.

“Don’t cuss in front of our child.” He smiles sickly sweet at you, smoothing down the toy’s faux fur before he places it in front of you again.

You’re about to open your mouth to retort but you notice Jihoon coming back, placing food and a cup of beer right in front of you instead. “Hey, uhh, I paid for your food and drink. Hope that’s okay. You seemed tired.” There’s a faint blush on his cheek just as he shyly looks away.

“O-oh. Thank you, Jihoon, that’s really sweet of you…”

“Um, mmhmm, I’m gonna go get my own food, I’ll be back.”

Wonwoo scoffs when Jihoon walks away, plucking the remote from his pocket again. “Isn’t that cute? Everyone’s treating you like a little princess. Doting on you while you cum because of me. So spoiled.”

You blush, choosing to ignore Wonwoo’s words as you focus on eating the food Jihoon had so kindly gotten for you. Eventually the other two come back, leaving Wonwoo to get his own food as he leaves you with them. “Jeez, couldn’t even get me anything, Mingyu?”

“Sorry bro, only one pair of hands!”

The three of you laugh, delving into conversation as the tall male leaves. “Anyway, you guys aren’t dating right?” Mingyu asks. You nod. “We’re not. Why?”

“No reason, just checking in to see if anything’s changed.”

“Since you’re not dating, d’you wanna come to my studio?” You choke on your food, eyes bulging as you stare at Jihoon. “I--what?” He places his food down, taking a sip of his beer before he replies.

“Nothin’ sexual, just could use an outside opinion on some music stuff. We’re all art kids to some degree, y’know? Sometimes I need an outsider’s opinion.”

“But--but what does that have to do with me dating Wonwoo?”

“Nothing really. I just didn’t want to ask just in case he got the wrong idea.” Wonwoo walks back in mid-conversation, setting his things down as he looks at Jihoon. “Wrong idea?”

“I asked her if she’d come to my studio to give me an opinion on music stuff. Nothing major.” Wonwoo glances at you before he takes a sip of his own beer. “Jihoon’s really good at producing. You’d be lucky to hear what he works on. ”

“I’d love to come by whenever!” You smile at Jihoon, hurriedly finishing your food. The other three take their time, discussing various topics just as you see Wonwoo slip his hand towards his pants pocket again. Oh no.

This time he wastes no time, already setting the toy to the middle setting as you try your best to not lurch forward over the table top. Your body is already extremely sensitive from your past orgasms and you find it hard to keep in the noises you so badly want to let out.

“We should go to a few more game booths and then maybe hit up the rides before we leave.” Mingyu says with a mouthful of food. “Mm, yeah, they set up a cool arcade area on the north end of the grounds, we should head over there when the sun goes down.” Wonwoo adds.

You find it incredible that he can sound so normal in this situation and you almost feel jealous. Fucker.

The three continue to chat about the day’s plans just as your orgasm begins to crest quickly, Jihoon’s eyes landing on you when he asks for your opinion. You almost feel bad that you’re cumming while staring Jihoon straight in the eyes but you figure it wasn’t the first time today that had happened anyway.

The wetness between your legs feels horrible when you come down from your high; panties sticking to you like a second skin as you rub your thighs together.

“Yeah, sounds g-good!”

Wonwoo lets up, letting you enjoy the rest of your day in peace for the most part.

The sun eventually goes down and all of you head towards the arcade tent; everyone splitting up to go do their own thing for the time being. You stick with Wonwoo however, walking around quietly and looking at all the arcade cabinets with him.

“Tired yet?”

“Why? Think I can’t keep up with you?” You quip, a little on edge. In truth, you were a little tired. But you also wanted Wonwoo to fuck you already and you weren’t even sure if he’d give in.

“Oh, no, sweetheart. I know you can keep up with me. Just wondering if you were wanting one more orgasm before the night was over.”

Oh.

“Yes.”

You reply before you can even really think, body suddenly on fire at the thought of his hands finally on you. And just like you expect, Wonwoo turns the toy back on, setting it to its lowest level. “Let’s play a game.” He offers, walking you towards one of the zombie shooter games.

“If you win, I’ll fuck you however you want me. If I win, I’ll fuck you however I want you. Deal?” You nod feverishly, not caring about the outcome. If it resulted in him fucking you, there was no real losing. “Okay, sure. Let’s do it.” Wonwoo leaves the toy on as he puts the quarters in the machine, already flying through the intro screen. “I hope you’re ready to lose, sweetheart.”

And lose you do, but you feign disappointment for his sake, setting the fake gun back into its place just as Wonwoo raises the vibration level of the toy. “F--Fuck!” And this time, your voice is drowned out in the crowd of people and arcade noises, small cries and moans spilling from your lips as you lean up against the arcade cabinet. “Pl--please, Wonwoo I can’t w-wait any longer, I don’t care i--if you fuck me here, please!”

Wonwoo laughs, his hand wrapping around your wrist as he drags you out of the arcade tent. “We’ll save that for another time.” He leads you towards the restrooms, although in a much emptier part of the grounds.

“Wait, what if someone… sees us?” He scoffs just as he begins to walk into the restrooms, pulling you in behind him. “Please, this is a 21+ event with booze, I’m sure someone’s fucked in here before we have.” Wonwoo pushes you into one of the stalls, locking it behind him as he fishes for the toy’s remote.

“Let’s get you a little wetter, baby.”

“No~ I’m already so wet, please Wonwoo…” You face one of the restroom walls, pressing your ass against his crotch. His cock is already from what you can feel as you start to grind against him. “Fuck, please, you’re already hard, please just fuck me!” You cry, dropping all of your things to the grimy restroom floor before placing your hands on the wall in front of you.

“I won the game but here you are begging me to do what you want. So so spoiled.” He turns off the toy, placing the remote in his back pocket before he grips the hem of your dress, flipping it up to expose your ass to him.

He helps you slide down your soaked panties, pocketing the material as well before starts undoing his jeans and underwear. “Don’t you want me to eat you out? Get you nice and prepped for my cock?”

“No, fuck, I just want you to fuck me, please! I’m so w-wet I--you could just… slide right in…” The thought alone has you drooling; squirming when you feel the head of his cock sliding through your wet folds.

“What if I wanted to fuck your ‘lil ass, hmm?” You can feel your pussy throb at the prospect. “I--Wonwoo… fuck, I’d let you!” You moan out.

Wonwoo smirks behind you, positioning his cock at your entrance before he slowly eases himself in. “We’ll also save that for another time… But I’ll give you a little taste in a bit.” You groan in response, thanking the heavens when you feel his thick cock inside your pussy. And it takes everything you have to not cum as soon as he bottoms out, cock already prodding at your cervix.

“Ngh, fuck…”

The sound of skin slapping and moans bounce off the restroom walls and you don’t even care if anyone can hear or see what’s going on. But Wonwoo takes his time; slow but hard thrusts that have you whining and clenching hard around him as your body jerks in his hold.

“You were so good for me today. Cumming and not even letting any of them know.” A warm feeling floods your senses at his praise. “And here you are, still taking my cock after you’ve already cum so many times. So good for me, sweetheart.” 

You let out a sharp breath when you feel his thumb circling your puckered hole. 

“Wonwoo... p-please...” You meet his thrusts, fucking yourself on his cock as he lets a glob of spit land on your hole, his thumb using it as lubrication before he slowly eases in the digit. 

“Oh g-god, I--fuck, please, please, please!” You mumble, feeling even more full than you ever were. 

“Hah, you’re so cute. Next time we’ll have to use some new toys, hmm? Get all you nice and filled up.” 

“Fuck, yes!” 

Wonwoo fucks you faster, keeping his thumb in your ass as he chases his orgasm. Your body jolts in his hold, already feeling your own orgasm starting to build as well. “Won--Wonwoo ‘m close already...” You mumble, sensitive body already beginning to slump against the dirty wall.

“Cum with me then, sweetheart.” 

You nod shakily, pussy getting tighter around his cock as you feel yourself tipping over the edge. And Wonwoo follows suit, groaning when he cums inside of your pussy, fucking his cum deeper into you as your walls flutter around his cock when you cum with him. 

“Fuck, Wonwoo!” 

You feel yourself drooling as you cum, eyes clenched shut as the pleasure washes over you. Your orgasm seems to last longer than your previous ones despite how exhausted you feel afterwards, but you’re sure it’s because of Wonwoo and not because of some toy. 

“Sweetheart, are you okay?”

“H--Huh?” You head feels muddled as you turn your head to the side, trying to catch a glimpse of him. 

“I’ve been asking you if you were ok for the past minute. You zoned out.” 

“Oh... m’okay... tired...” You whisper out, oversensitivity setting in when he slides his cock from your swollen pussy. 

“Let’s get you cleaned up and then I’ll get you some water, okay?” 

You can barely stand up straight when you try to exit the restroom stall,  Wonwoo offering to piggy-back you back to the arcade tent where everyone else is waiting. 

He keeps the vibrating panties but lets you put you regular panties back on. 

“I was smart to put ‘em in my bag...” You tell him sleepily, nuzzling into his neck as he carries you. 

“You’re lucky you did or else I’d have to put the other one back on.” He grins, re-adjusting you on his back as he sees the others standing in front of the arcade tent. 

“Okay, see, now I know you two were up to no good.” Minghao tuts, arms crossed as he looks over your tired form. “God, and here we thought you were one of the good ones, hyung.” Chan adds, dramatically shaking his head as they start walking towards the amusement park rides. 

“You might’ve gotten whatever sick thrills you wanted but we still wanna go on the rides so you’re gonna have to come with us now!” Soonyoung screams before running ahead, Wonwoo turning with you still on his back. 

“You gonna be okay? Or do you wanna ditch them?” You tighten your grip around his neck, sleepy eyes watching as the others chase Soonyoung. 

“I’ll be okay, let’s catch up with them before they lose Soonyoung.” 

Past Nova - Chapter 02

Title: Past Nova - Chapter 02

Rating: T

Word Count: 12,665 [Ch 02: 3699]

Pairings/Characters: Neku Sakuraba. Beat. Shiki Misaki. Rhyme. Sota Honjo. Nao. Joshua Kiryu. Sota/Nao. 

Warnings: Past Character Death mentions. 

Summary: Neku and his new friends find that they’ve been brought back to life, time wound back as if the three weeks had never happened. It’s something that they don’t have time to adjust to though, as Neku realises that Sota and Nao are still alive, with no guarantee that the two won’t end up back in the UG. Even without a timer on his hand, time is ticking down - but Neku isn’t going to let Sota and Nao disappear without a fight. Not again.

Partner: @licobleps & HB Kit

Author’s Note: So, we’ve got our misson set and things are ready to kick off! Hope you enjoy this chapter too!

“Sota, I was wondering, like, how would you catch a star?”

Stars were pretty high up. Nao knew Sota wouldn’t actually be able to catch a real star. She totally wanted to hear what he would do, though. Like, he had to at least try.

He adjusted the white band around his elbow, something Nao knew he did when he was really trying to think hard.

“Maybe I’d shoot something at it. Fireworks or somethin’. Knock ‘em right outta the sky.” His mouth stretched into a boyish grin.

He looked younger when he did that.

“And then, what?”

“Hm, I dunno. You got any ideas?”

Nao thought about it for a moment.

“You could totes set up a net under it. To catch it when it falls!”

She knew it - they came up with the best things when they did so together.

Chapter 02 - Nuclear Crossing

The sensation of waking up, lying on his back and staring at the ceiling was something that Neku should be familiar with. Instead, he found his hands clawing below, searching for concrete and meeting with softness instead. Those were three long, long weeks in the game and he suspected that it would take longer than another three for him to stop expecting to wake up in the middle of the scramble crossing.

It was odd, yesterday when they had parted ways. Neku had met up with his friends for the first time but it was also the first time that he had said goodbye to them. At least, goodbye with a certainty of seeing them again soon.

So soon, that it seemed like no time at all before he had breakfast and his parents left for work. Then here they were, at his doorstep. He was glad that it was a Monday; he didn’t know if he could muster up an explanation on how he suddenly had friends that could come over during the summer break. Up until now, he had always gone out, left the house as fast as he could.

He felt a knot tie up in his stomach, as he watched Shiki, Beat and Rhyme take off their shoes. Is my place clean enough? Did I buy enough snacks? Do they even want to be here?

Normally with a mission, he wouldn’t have to think about these things. This time, though, there was no physical timer on their hands. The day wasn’t going to go by without them noticing.

There was no Pact that meant that they had to stick around him.

That was the reason Neku kept thinking of what he would have thought to be really trivial things in the past. He couldn’t help it.

Can I keep the friends that I’ve made?

Even with the reassurance that they would help him with this (of course they would, they were good people, better than Neku had been), outside of a life and death situation, would they still want to be around him?

What the hell is with me?

Neku didn’t understand. He wasn’t worried about this yesterday. He didn’t think he could be worried about this.

“Do we get to see your room?” Shiki grabbed his attention back with that question.

No, not yet, he thought. “Sure,” is what he said instead.

The apartment he and his parents lived in was comfortable enough. Nothing too big, nothing too small. His room was similar in that sense. If Neku were to describe it in one word, he’d say it was ‘practical’. He supposed that something that might stand out was his -

“Check out all this CAT merch, yo!” Yeah, that.

Embarrassingly enough, he had convinced his parents to get him a bookstand that, while it did host a humble few textbooks, was mostly taken up by works by CAT. As CAT ventured into many of the creative arts, there was an assortment there from small posters, to keychains, to handcrafted statues. Posters designed by CAT were hung around his bedroom, too.

“Didn’t know you were this into CAT, Neku.” Shiki sounded surprised.

Neku had to remind herself that she had only been around him when he was missing his memories. “Yeah, I wasn’t kidding. I really admire CAT’s - Mr. Hanekoma’s work.”

She took one more look at the displayed items, then a quick look over at the rest of his room. “I like your room,” she said, decidedly. “It’s very ‘you’.”

“Yeah, your crib’s cool, Phones.”

“Home is where the heart is, after all.”

“…Thanks.”

He could feel his shoulders relax and his mouth curve upwards. It wasn’t really that he wanted their approval about his room specifically but…perhaps he was actually more concerned about being liked by them than he realised. Something that he just hadn’t clocked in, since he hadn’t cared about what others thought of him before.

“I’ll be right back.” He left, for five minutes, before returning with a plastic bag full of chips, chocolates and other sweets that he had bought from the convenience store yesterday. He plopped them on the floor. “I thought we could eat while coming up with a game-plan.” They sometimes mulled over the next steps of a mission over a food break, so there was no reason for this to be any different.

Beat didn’t need to be told twice, as the boy dove for the snack bag and snagged the norishio flavoured chips, chucking konsome ones at Rhyme. Neku rolled his eyes, before taking out some rice crackers and passing them along to Shiki. They ended up sitting in a circle with the snacks in the middle.

This was what Neku thought it would be like if he were to have a study session with friends; although they were all there for more serious matters.

“So, from Joshua’s message, we have until Sunday before…the deadline.” Before they die. “If we want to help save them, I think we need to try and find out how they died the first time around.”

This was something that Neku had been thinking about.

Since he had gotten home last evening, after they all agreed that they needed to come up with an actual plan, it had been all that was on his mind.

“We know exactly when they died. Aside from the ‘how’ we’re also pretty much clueless on the ‘where’. What we do know is that it’s within Shibuya. Luckily for us, we’re all pretty much experts on running around everywhere in this town.”

“You’ve got that right,” Shiki said, only just barely audible. “So, we know they were hanging around at the Scramble on Saturday? Do we just wanna try and find them then?”

Neku shook his head. “I think that would be leaving it a bit late. And I don’t think we could follow them all day until Sunday. Even if that was going to be our plan, that’s if we can find them on Saturday.”

“Ain’t it the same thing if we found them sooner? Wouldn’t we still be tryna’ follow them ‘till Sunday?”

“I was…maybe planning to well…” He lowered his voice. “Maybe try and make friends with them.”

There was a slight pause, as all three of them stared at him.

He scratched the back of his head. “You know. If we made friends with them, maybe we could just…ask them where they planned to be on Sunday.” Still quiet. “We could just exchange numbers and maybe hang with them until the time passes.”

Shiki was the first one to break the silence  - with a laugh. It wasn’t a cruel laugh, however.  “You really have changed, haven’t you, Neku?” If anything, the tone she had laughed in and had spoken in had a soft quality to it. He might even call it affectionate.

“I guess.” He knew that. She didn’t have to say it out loud, though.

Beat and Rhyme jumped in to agree with her enthusiastically, all three breaking into big smiles.

Well.

Maybe having it said wasn’t too bad.

“Anyway,” he cleared his throat, “they were the ones who approached me and Joshua, so I think that it’d probably be easy to make friends with them.”

The way Sota and Nao selflessly offered the two their help, even if it might cost them the win - it was something that Neku appreciated all the more after coming back to life.

“That still leaves us the problem of finding them,” Rhyme pointed out.

“Right, so I wanted to ask you guys. You did that…people-watching thing a lot, didn’t you? Back when we could scan.”

“You bet,” Beat laughed, “man, remembering some of the things people were thinking cracks me up.”

“Speak for yourself, Beat.” Shiki sighed. “I swear, I kept scanning people who were either complaining all the time or…well thinking things that probably should have been left unscanned.”

Neku was not going to ask Shiki to elaborate on that one. “Did you guys remember picking up on anything that first week? Anything that might be a clue? I think it’d be helpful if we scanned something related to them on the seventh day but obviously, we were all a little preoccupied.” As he said that, he gave a little apologetic nod to Rhyme, realising that she wasn’t really part of that, of course.

There was another lull, where each of them tried to remember something, anything that might be a clue. He wished he had paid more attention to people that first week. There was no guarantee that they would find anything concrete, but it sure as hell would useful.

“You know, actually.” Shiki scrunched up her face. “I think that I scanned some guy…I think he was a detective or something. He was looking for a blond ganguro girl. That would match the description of Nao.”

“Dunno ‘bout that, Shiki. There are a lotta blond ganguro girls in Shibuya.”

“That’s true,” said Shiki. “‘Sides, this guy was looking for a suspected criminal. Doubt it’s them since they were helping Neku out.”

“I can’t say I knew them well enough to say they’re not criminals but that’s definitely not the feeling I got from them.” No, he didn’t know them closely but what he did was enough. “I mean, we can’t be sure. Either way, it doesn’t really give us a clue on how to find them.”

Seemed like they would have to go with Plan B.

“In that case, the other thing that I wanted to ask you guys was - do you think you guys can ask around if anyone you know, knows anything about Sota and Nao? I’d do it myself, too, but I don’t really have…anyone to ask.”

At that, both Shiki and Beat stiffened up. Hm? That’s strange.

“Shiki, do we think you could ask Eri?”

“I - uh, I guess that would be okay.” Her eyes were suddenly indiscernible behind her glasses, as she shifted them.

Neku saw Shiki’s other hand curl up tightly.

“Hey.”

Shiki looked up at him.

“Don’t sweat it, we don’t have to.”

Her expression seemed to harden but Neku didn’t want to push. She told him to take his time yesterday if he needed it. He wanted her to feel the same.

“Sorry.”

He didn’t know what was bothering Shiki - he thought that she had resolved her troubles with Eri but it was beginning to seem like that wasn’t the case. He hadn’t asked. I should have asked. He could sense that now wasn’t the appropriate point to do so, though. She’d tell him when she was ready to.

Turning to Beat, he could see that his other friend was equally hesitant to say anything. Neku wondered if Beat had a reason too, why he didn’t want to ask anyone. Perhaps…he also didn’t have many friends? Neku just assumed that he did have some. When they first met, Beat seemed to want to get along fine. Until Neku showed off some of his old attitude, and Beat stormed off but that was Neku’s fault, he could admit to that. He didn’t want to push Beat either, but now they were kind of stuck.

“Neku, I think I have some friends I can ask,” Rhyme said.

Oh right, Rhyme.

“Thanks but…aren’t you a bit…young? I think Nao and Sota are a bit older than us so I don’t know if you’d know anyone who would hang around them.” He also doubted that with Beat as a brother, she would be hanging around with older kids a lot, if Beat wasn’t around others either.

“Yup but I’ve got a friend - he’s a classmate from school. He’s not afraid to talk to older people, though he could stand to, I think. He’s really into Tin Pin so he just challenges everyone he meets into the game,” she explained. “Even adults…including the nice grannies who live around our area.”

“Do the grannies play Tin Pin?” Shiki asked.

Neku shot her a look. Not the time.

She shot one right back at him that said ‘I know you were thinking the same thing’.

“Some of them do.”

Huh, you learn something new every day. “Hold up…Tin Pin.” Don’t tell me - “This guy’s name doesn’t happen to be Shooter, does it?”

xxxxx

“DO YOU GUYS PLAY TIN PIN?!” The boy’s voice sounded like someone had gotten hold of a tv remote, aimed it at him and turned the volume all the way up to maximum.

Neku debated whether to say yes or no.

“Didn’t you say you got pretty good at it, Neku?” Shiki had to open her big mouth

Right, maybe he shouldn’t have told her all about it on the way to meet Shooter. It was a bit of walk from his place to Tipsy Tose Hall and they were all asking about how he knew Shooter. He may have…embellished his skill in Tin Pin ever so slightly. Look, he did beat Shooter in their practice round, okay?

“Oh yeah?” There was a glint in his eyes that Neku wasn’t quite liking. Shooter moved to adjust the red bandanna around his head. Tugged at his jacket. Tightened the straps on his fingerless gloves. “Then I challenge you to a slam-off!”

Ah shit, Neku thought, here we go again.

…

Only a few minutes later, Neku had been completely humiliated in front of his friends.

“Oh, it’s okay, Neku.” Shiki patted his shoulder, reassuringly.

“Right on! You weren’t bad, but you need to put a little more POW into your attacks, if you know what I mean?”

“Uh yeah, ‘more pow’. Gotcha.” Was he disappointed? No! Of course, not.

…Fine, maybe a little bit.

“Hah, you suck!”

Neku glared at Beat. “I’m just a little out of practice!”

“Really? We can count it as a warm-up if you’d like, bro? Wanna go again?”

“No, I’m good,” Neku said, immediately.

Before Shooter could protest, Rhyme interrupted him. “Good job, Shooter! Nice play.” Rhyme and Shooter shared a very light fist-bump.

“Thanks, Rhyme. Gotta get some practise so I don’t lose again to you. Can’t keep letting my rivals get ahead of me all the time. Just you wait, the next one is gonna come in with a WHAM.”

There was so much that Neku wanted to ask after witnessing that exchange but they needed to keep focused on the task at hand.

“Shooter, all sorts of people come through the Stride, don’t they?”

“Yeah! I mean, everyone plays Tin Pin!” Shooter said this like it was obvious. “If there are people out there who don’t play Tin Pin they should play Tin Pin. I’ve been trying to get my gramps to play with me but he keeps saying he’s busy with his store!”

Looks like what Rhyme said about him challenging grannies must be true, then. Wonder if Tin Pin has specific categories for senior citizens…

Looking around the Stride right now, there were quite a few setups for several Tin Pin matches to go on at the same time. While the majority of players did seem to be around Rhyme and Shooter’s age-group, he did spot a lot of older kids and adults here too. Looked like anyone could get into Tin Pin.

“You know anyone named Sota Honjo? Or Nao Akahoshi? They’re usually together.”

Shooter thought for a moment and the longer he took, the more Neku started to believe they hit another dead end.

“Oh wait, is he the guy who wears shades on his head?”

Neku’s heart started to race. “Yeah, him!”

“Yeah I know him! He’s a bit of a rookie, started coming around here not long ago. He’s only a little worse than you though, bro.” Neku would not take offence to that. Nope. “Haha, though he totally wanted to take on the tournament next week. I dunno if it’s too early for him but you can’t gain experience without slamming! Oh hey, you wanna join the tourney?”

“No thanks, I’ve already done - uh, I mean - I’ve already got plans.”

That was close.

He avoided his friend’s eyes, knowing they were probably all going to hound him for it later.

“Do you know when he’s going to be here next?” Neku pushed through, determined to get the information he needed.

“Bro, I wish! I tried to challenge him when I saw him near Miyashita Park. He told me to go home, though. Saw him heading towards the Shibuya river side of the park. Think he hangs there a lot.”

It wasn’t anything concrete but it was a lead nevertheless.

“Guess that’s where we’re going then. Thanks Shooter. C’mon guys.”

Thinking it best to leave before Shooter could demand another slam-off, Neku tilted his head towards the exit and began walking towards it. Rhyme and Shiki started heading out, but Beat did not move.

That’s weird. He was usually first out the door.

His back was towards Neku and he couldn’t see Beat’s expression but he suspected that it was similar to the one he had on back at Neku’s place.

“Beat? You coming?”

“Yeah…les’ go.”

xxxxx

This really was strange.

Beat wasn’t saying a word as they made their way to the park. He wouldn’t stop talking when they were going to the Stride but now? Nothing. He was also lagging behind even Shiki.

If Neku noticed it and Shiki noticed it, judging by the way she kept looking behind her and then back to Neku, then Rhyme must have noticed it. She didn’t give any indication of it, though. Was that on purpose?

This was another thing that Neku had to ask about. Later, after they had found Sota and Nao.

They didn’t exactly run to the park but it hadn’t been a gentle walk either. Finding his breathing to be slightly laboured he gestured for them to stop by the entrance of the park. He looked around the area. It was one of Shibuya’s more run-down locations.

While it wasn’t such a large area, they still needed somewhere to begin. He asked if they should split up to cover more ground. He would need to give a bit more detail, he suspected. Since Shiki and Rhyme agreed to it fairly quickly he started to give them a bit more description of what they looked like.

“Like I said to Shooter, Sota had shades. I don’t know if he’d be wearing the same thing but he also had ripped jeans. Some kind of black vest. Think he had a watch and a few necklaces. White armband. Think he had some piercings too.” He actually surprised himself with how much detail he remembered. Briefly, he wondered if having memory loss once meant that your memory was better once you got them back. Another question to ask, someday.

“Alright, so should we split up into two groups?” Shiki nodded at him. “Neku and I one way and you two in another?”

“Wait, Shiki.”

Beat had finally spoken up.

“It ain’t…it ain’t a good idea to split up.”

“Hm? This place is a little shady but it isn’t that bad.” As far as Neku knew, at least. “Beat?”

“…I think I know where they’re at.”

“You what?”

This time, Beat did start sprinting off. It was all they could do to keep up with him. They were heading deeper into the park and past any area Neku had visited before, or heck even known about. They were heading towards the side, near the Shibuya river as Shooter had mentioned, but down a path leading to the junction to the housing areas.

“Who’s there?”

Oh no.

Beat had led them to the edge of the park, with stairs dipping down from the raised ground. Several people were sat on these steps and they did not look like the friendliest bunch. Or at least, most of them didn’t.

“Oh hey! Beat, that you, man?”

Two of them got up.

Shit.

He had been looking for them. He had wanted to find them.

But -

Sota, sorry… I can’t…

Nao! Stay with me! We’re finishing this thing together!

I’d…love to…but it…doesn’t look like I can. Sorry…Sota…

-        he found himself staggering backwards.

He would have fallen over if Shiki hadn’t jumped to his side to steady him.

“Wow, is your friend, like, okay there?”

Neku wanted to answer on his own but couldn’t. He could open his mouth to speak.

They don’t know me.

He knew they wouldn’t.

They’re alive.

He was so relieved they were.

And they…know Beat?

“Well, well, well. Lookie who showed up here?”

This didn’t come from either Sota or Nao but from one of the other people sat on the stairs. He wasn’t standing up but somehow his gaze managed to seem as if he was looking down on them.

“Did ya change your mind?”

The man tapped at his white arm-band. All of them were wearing white arm-bands.

“Beat, what’s going on?” Neku was suddenly aware that Shiki’s grip on him had tightened.

“Yeah, c’mon. What’s going on that you had the balls to come back here, huh ‘Beat’?”

This time the man did stand up and he towered above them all.

“Or should I still be calling you -

Beat didn’t flinch and met this man’s gaze head-on.

“ - ‘Mad Boar’?”

Turn ‘Em Out

A/N: Soooo. I recently posted a list of questions for you to pose to my characters. (I got so many good ones! I’ve worked through about half of them but I have a few more to get to and you know me, I tend to ramble.) Well there was one in particular that I truly hoped someone would ask when I posted that list, and was strongly considering writing the answer to it regardless...but then it DID get asked! And I was pumped! But then I started writing it and...well...it got LONG. And it came with a slew of other asks, so I decided that it was best to answer this particular one separately, and I’ll finish the rest that came in that batch next. Anyways. How’s that for rambling, huh? 

Prompt: @something-tofightfor asked What’s in Ryan’s pockets? 

Word Count: 2,667

Ryan’s got a lot of pockets, which is great because there are a lot of things that he needs and space in his pack and guitar case is limited. He can literally only take with him what he can carry, and he can’t carry too much because he needs to be able to quickly get on and off the trains, so he can’t be too weighed down. This means that every single thing that Ryan Brenner has in his pockets is absolutely essential. 

Let’s start with what he’s got in his jeans. While he’s out and about, his wallet is in his right back pocket. There’s an outline of distinct wear and tear in the shape of the thin, brown leather billfold where he keeps the cash he makes from busking, two pictures, and his driver’s license. Currently, on your floor, he’s got about $168 in cash, most of it made that very day on the 16th Street Mall. The two pictures both have curled, torn edges, the older of the two has a thick crease down the middle from where it had been folded when it lived in a different wallet with a smaller pocket. The older photo was of Ryan with his cousins on the beach from the time he got too drunk and fell asleep without sunscreen. He and Taylor, both red as a radish, were in the center wearing grimaces to go with their burns, surrounded by Patrick, Fitz, Zach, Jimmy and Tommy with wide, goofy, drunken summer grins on their faces. The second photo was from his first year on the rails, out in Oregon with the group of friends he shared his first tattoo with. Oz, Robin, Louie, Nikki, Georgie, Cowboy and Kissie with Ryan mid step to get back into the frame before the timer on the camera went off. The crew was camped out by the bay, two tents that belonged to Oz and Nikki popped up behind the group with a makeshift clothesline and a rock ringed fire pit visible to the left. Cowboy, Robin and Georgie all wore frozen laughs, Ryan’s mouth quirked to the side and his eyes narrowed in a comeback to whatever smart ass comment Oz had just made. Both of them reminded him that he had his tribe of people scattered across the country and back home in Georgia, and he’d pull them out on cold, lonely nights on the train or sleeping in a park, and looking at them would always make him feel less alone. He could almost hear their laughter and feel their embrace, and when the hour was appropriate the next day, he’d give someone a call just to fill his ear with a familiar voice. 

His driver’s license was issued in Montana about four years ago. At that point he still had about a year on his Georgia license before it would need to be renewed, but he didn’t want to limit himself and have to go back if that’s not where the road was taking him. He’d be back soon enough for another cousin reunion, and he didn’t want there to be a lapse in valid I.D.s. They were hard enough for him to get when they weren’t expired; without a permanent address, the amount of paperwork you need to bring to the DMV is astounding. So since he had planned to spend a whopping 4 weeks in Livingston, MT to help Georgie’s uncle’s friend repair fences and patch the roof of the barn after a particularly harsh hail season (the price was RIGHT so even though it meant sticking in one spot for much longer than he was used to, Ryan couldn’t pass it up) he decided that it was as good a time as any to get a new license since Byron, the owner of the ranch and the man who was putting him, Cowboy, Virginia and Georgie up in the guesthouse, had allowed Ryan to use his address to have some mail forwarded, so voila! A “permanent” Montana residence. Montana licenses are good for eight years, too, so he’s still got a while before he needs to decide where to renew. 

Ryan’s back left pocket held a pair of thick wool gloves, palms tucked in and fingers waving free. They’d been a Christmas gift from Cowboy and Virginia (Ryan knew it was really Ginny who’d chosen the gloves with him in mind.) and they saved him from frostbite on plenty of occasions. They were bulky with insulated lining sand reinforced deerskin palms, and when his hands had all but cracked and bled from playing for hours in winter weather, they were a welcome reprieve. He couldn’t wear them getting on or off the trains, because the knit stitching was liable to snag on some part of the car. Ryan has heard his share of stories about what can happen when your clothes get caught in a chain or a rough, weathered edge of the steel, so he slips them off right before hopping and shoves them in his pocket. (He’s got a pair of canvas work gloves, too, but they’re inside the main part of his pack with his clothes. Those are for odd jobs and things that crop up along the way) 

Ryan’s knife is in his front right pocket. It’s small, with a carved wooden handle. It’s old. Older than Ryan. It belonged to his grandfather and His aunt (Patrick’s mom) gave it to him when he was home around his 22nd birthday. It wasn’t a secret that Ryan was granddaddy’s favorite; he saw the same spark of mischief and excitement for life that he had as a younger man. Some of Ryan’s favorite memories from his childhood are of summer afternoons, when the sun was too hot to be out for too long and he and his cousins would be forced to find shade for an hour or two, and he’d sit on the porch next to his grandfather as he whittled whistles and figurines. He’d pile up the curled shavings, wrapping them around his fingers as he watched forms of bears and birds appear out of solid blocks of wood. Once he asked him if he could teach him how to carve. 

Granddaddy laughed and ruffled Ryan’s mop of soft brown locks, lightened from the summer sun. “When yer older, Ry’n. You’ll chop yer fingers clean off, I teach ya now.” 

Ryan never got to learn. The time was never right before he left, and there never seemed to be enough when he was home, and then time ran out and Ryan was left with one of the biggest regrets that he’ll carry; that he didn’t make the time. So when his aunt gave him the knife when he was home around his 22nd birthday, Ryan’s eyes went wide before blinking fat tears from the corners, and the knife instantly became his most prized possession. He still doesn’t know how to carve, but he uses it almost every day. 

His left front pocket is for random extra necessities, which vary by season. In the winter there might be a few hand warmer packets, cough drops or some kind of hard candy, maybe some tissues or a handful of paper napkins. 

The heavy canvas coat he wore held some of the most vital items as those pockets closed with zippers or buttons. The inner breast pocket housed his black plastic flip phone, the charger cable wound around it. It was by far the most important item he carried in terms of survival. The ability to call for help should he need it was crucial, making the charger cable just as important as the phone itself. It was also his link to the people that mattered most to him, his way to let them all know that he was okay, a way for them to do the same. Radio silence from time to time was normal, but contact through the network every few weeks or so put everyone’s hearts at ease. Right now, around your third or fourth song on your floor in front of the fireplace, Ryan’s wondering if you’ll be added to that network… wondering if you want to add him to yours. 

The lower inside pocket is larger, so it can hold a few of the bulkier things that he carries. There’s a keychain sized flashlight that may have been attached to an actual keychain at one point. Ryan’s not even sure where it came from, but it has come in handy on more than one cloudy night when he couldn’t rely on the moon or stars for visual assistance. A standard Bic lighter (currently a plain red one) and a book of matches from a motel he’d stayed in with Georgie and some of his new friends down in Jackson, MS a few months back. He had about twelve matchbooks in a plastic zipper bag in his pack, habitually taking them anytime they were offered- motels, diners, truckstops. Plenty of smoke shops that he’d stopped in offered a free book with a pack of papers. Being able to start a fire for cooking or warmth was crucial, and having fire to light an expertly rolled smoke was a bonus. There was also always a length of twine, coiled and tied off to avoid tangling into a knot. It was useful in dozens of ways, some of the most used being as additions to fire starters, makeshift clotheslines, and replacement shoelaces. Loose or untied shoes due to a broken lace are unacceptable for a number of reasons, but all purpose twine works as a stop gap until he can get new laces. Whenever he gets close to running out, Ryan visits a local hardware shop and restocks. 

There’s one more inner pocket on the opposite side. It’s small but it only has very small items in it, and they almost never leave their place so it works just fine. Ryan’s not a superstitious man, but he’s not about to turn down good luck, so this pocket serves as a tiny treasure trove of things he’d acquired over the years that have supposedly been partially to blame for his continued good fortune: a lucky penny Taylor had given him before he left the very first time. She was only 14 then, but she swore that penny was with her on “the best days of her life” and she wanted Ryan to have it so only good things would come to him on his travels. She probably doesn’t remember it anymore, but Ryan’s kept it the entire time. Tucked in with the penny is the first guitar pick he’d ever used, his own little charm that he wasn’t sure was lucky per say, but that he couldn’t seem to part with. There was a four leafed clover that Robin had sent him from somewhere outside Seattle along with a postcard. (When he’d make it back to Georgia, usually every three years or so, he’d always have a small bundle of letters and postcards from his road family. Maybe someone spent a week longer than planned in a city that they fell in love with and they wanted to share the recommendation. Maybe someone saw something or heard something or felt something that reminded them of him. Maybe someone just missed him and wanted to write it down. Ryan tried to scribble notes now and then, too.) 

The last item in that pocket was a flint arrowhead that he’d been given as a gift a few summers ago. He’d been staying in Kentucky for about a week or so with Cowboy and his cousin Nate, and Nate’s ex wife had unexpectedly dropped their son Julian off about two days in to Ryan and Cowboy’s stay. Aat first Ryan’s inclination was that he and Cowboy should hit the road and change their plans, maybe head on up to Ohio or Pennsylvania for a stretch, but Nate insisted that they stay. Julian was 9 but had the attitude of a 19 year old, and Ryan couldn’t really blame the kid from what he’d seen of his parents. (He was grateful to Nate for letting him have a place to crash, a shower, somewhere to cook and rest up. But it was clear from the way that he and Maya, Julian’s mom, screamed at each other, neither of them were mature enough to raise a well adjusted kid.) By the third day, Julian was bored as all hell, and Nate had no real clue what to do with him. Ryan figured it wasn’t that hard, just offer to include him in what you’re doing and see if he bites. “Hey Julian, I’m headed into town to hit the hardware store. Need to get some twine. You wanna come?” “Hey, Julian, I’mma sit out back and play a little, maybe see some constellations if you wanna join.” “Julian, we’re goin’ fishin’ later, you in?” By the end of the stay, Julian’s mood had improved and Nate was left dumbfounded, asking Ryan if he had kids and how he knew how to get through to his son. 

Ryan shrugged. “Just treat ‘em like people.” 

Julian had found a handful of arrowheads on that fishing excursion after Ryan showed him what to look for and where he was most likely to find one (along the banks of the small river), and when he and Cowboy were getting ready to head out, Julian shoved one in Ryan’s hand with a nod of his prematurely serious head. If his granddaddy’s knife took the number one spot, and his guitar held number two, Julian’s arrowhead, Taylor’s penny, Robin’s clover and his pick collectively took the number three slot in the things that were most important to him. Ryan wasn’t superstitious. Not at all. But whether those items brought him luck or not, he wouldn’t be caught without them. 

The two front pockets of his coat were usually empty unless his scarf was stuffed into one- depending on where he was, if the sun was high sometimes it was warm even in winter, and he’d find himself sweating in the thick, cable knit scarf. But in just an hour or so the weather could change drastically, so rolling it up and securing it away in his pack would be inconvenient if he’d be needing it again so soon. The old Carhartt’s front pockets were deep and wide and the entire scarf fit in one with no problem. The other would sometimes have a granola bar or a bag of nuts, something quick he’d picked up at a convenience store or gas station that he could munch on through the day, in between songs or while seated in the back of a pickup hitching from the train yard to wherever the next destination was. 

It would be too much to get into every item in his pack, but the essentials in the top front pocket include a toothbrush and paste, small travel sized bottle of mouthwash, bar of soap stored in a seafoam green plastic clamshell holder, and a travel sized shampoo. In a separate zipper bag in that same portion is a small tube of sunscreen, one of moisturizers, a few band aids, some tape and an antiseptic cream for small burns, cuts and nicks. In another of the front pockets he keeps his leather bound notebook, two pencils and a pen, along with a small print out map that boasted stars and circles for all the places he’d traveled to- circles meaning he’d been there once, stars indicating multiple visits. His harmonica also had a home in that pouch for easy access on long quiet stretches of rail.  

There wasn’t a stitch of extra space anywhere on him, but somehow Ryan always managed to fit anything and everything that he needed. He’d left things with people and gained new items along the way, but somehow the amount of space he had always accommodated exactly what he needed it to. 

.

@something-tofightfor @its-my-little-dumpster-fire @suchatinyinfinity @lexxierave @thesumofmychoices @songtoyou @traeumerinwitzhelden 

apologies if you didn’t want to be tagged in this essay, i just went with the Passing Through taglist :) 

ROADRAT KIDFIC PART 2 -- Link to Part 1 in the notes.

"Alright, Kiddo, if yer gunna be stayin' here.. there's some rules we needta go over." Junkrat paced in front of the toddler, arms crossed behind his back, a serious expression on his face.

Mako snorted, letting this play out for now while he unhooked their haul from the bike. They'd arrived at the barn house a little before night fall-- after a small argument over Jamie having to share the sidecar. Roadhog had the whole ride to think over their situation.. and was still no closer to a solution.

"Don't touch my stuff. If ya don't know if it's mine, assume it is. Bathroom's outside. If ya pee in the floor, I'm not cleanin' it up. And-- hey, where are you-- Roadie! Road!"

The big man looked over again at Jamie's hollering, spotting the kid as they darted across the room, straight for his bed. They crouched down, picking up the pachimari stuffed toy tucked underneath, and hugged it tightly.

"Oy! That's not yers!" Junk marched over and the kid was already shrinking, bottom lip jutting out.

"Leave it," he snapped, sounding more threatening than he meant to. It made them both freeze up. Then Jamison scoffed. "..Fine. Whatever. It ain't mine."

Mako shook his head and headed toward the corner they used as a kitchen, intent on getting some dinner started. He already felt exhausted from having to deal with this situation and he had a feeling it was only going to get worse.

It wasn't long before Junkrat slid into a chair nearby, tapping his fingers on the tabletop. "Sooo..."

"So."

"..What's the plan? We go back tomorrow, look for the kid's parents? Leave a ransom note?"

"..No. No ransom."

Jamie huffed at that, but didn't push it. He watched the toddler approach them, giving Junkrat a wide space, before smooshing themself up against Roadhog's leg, the plushie still clutched in one arm.

Mako paused to glance downward.. then reached far enough to pat the messy curls.

"..Ya like it, huh?"

Roadhog pulled his hand away like he'd touched fire, going back to chopping up their dinner.

Junkrat grinned. "..Ya know, we could just keep 'em. Little rat's kinda cute."

"No."

Jamison stood up, slinking closer. The kid watched him the whole time, still pressed against Hog's leg. Jamie leaned against his other side. "Come on. We'd make great parents! I'll be the dad, you'll be mama, and Junior here will be our--"

"Mama?" Roadhog was glaring underneath his mask. Jamie could feel it.

"Ya. Cuz you got the bigger tits."

Jamison cackled and ran, narrowly dodging the swipe of a knife. 'Junior' giggled, too, from the silliness of it all.

"Make yourself useful and clean up anything dangerous."

Jamison looked around at their collection of tools, scraps, ammo, weapons, makeshift explosives...

"...Sooo.. Everything?"

"..Yeah. Pretty much."

--------

Childproofing took most of the night. Every time Jamison felt things were good enough, Mako found something else they needed to move higher or haul outside.

"If I woulda known this meant cleanin', I woulda left the kid in the dumpster.." Jamison complained, pouting while he placed some spare parts into a box. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Roadhog moving stuff around.. and his new best friend following right at his heels.

The kid had been glued to the big lug since dinner. Him and that plushie. The same plushie Jamie'd once stepped on and got tossed outside because of.

Jamie was sizzling with jealousy, although he'd never admit it out loud. He didn't need to. He could often tell what Mako was thinking without the guy uttering a word.. and Mako could read him like an open book.

When Roadhog made another pass by, he made a point to reach out and ruffle Junk's already unruly hair. He sat there stunned for a moment.. then broke out in a fit of giggles.

"Watch the kid. I'll be right back." Mako nudged the tyke away, muttered 'stay', then went to carry some boxes outside.

The toddler stood there, fidgeting, then walked over to a box on the floor. Jamison watched curiously as the kid tried to pick it up. Heh, that was kinda cute. They were trying to help.

Jamison stood up to give a hand-- that's all he had to give, haha-- but was too late. The kid tugged, the box tipped over, its contents spilling all over the floor, and as the child stumbled for balance, then fell backwards with a thump.

They both were still and silent for a moment.. then whimpering started. Panicked, Jamison rushed over, standing the kid back up. That didn't stop the big tears welling up. "No, no, no, no cryin'.. heheh... he'll be so mad if yer cryin' when he comes back.. uhh.." Jamison scratched the back of his neck, racking his brain for a solution. "Um.. ah!" He bolted away, returning just as fast, now dangling an object in front of those teary eyes.

It was just some old junky keychain he'd found ages ago, kept it because of the aesthetic. A little cartoonish mouse figurine hung from the chain.

"I'll give ya this if ya stop, okie doke?"

A hiccup. A sniffle. Then a tiny hand reached up, grasping the mouse oh so carefully.. and then hugged it close to their chest with a big smile.

"..Okie doke!"

Jamison melted.

--------

When Mako came back inside, he found Jamison sitting on his bed, teary eyed, with the kid in his lap, patting Junk's cheeks and cooing. Trying to cheer him up.

"....Roadie... I think I'm attached.. It's just.. so cute.." Jamison sobbed.

Mako groaned.

ok so i just read your mornings w/ hoshi scenario and it was the cutest thing ever!! can i request boyfriend!hosh? (also i really really like your writing style, keep up the good work bud)

Boyfriend! Hoshi

• Let’s start with his cheeks bc why not, I love em• Would act all pouty when you squish them• It’s just an act he secretly loves it• Would also rub his cheeks on you when he’s feeling overwhelmed with love and just,,being cute (that smile tho :’))• Anyway dating him would be so much fun tbh• Would 1000% be the Dumb Idea advocate• He’s always coming up with dance ideas and with the way he is don’t tell me he won’t be good at this too• Like you’d be out at a mall or something and he’d see a fountain and nonchalantly be like• “ugh I’m so hot all of a sudden let’s go there to cool off”• 10 minutes later you’re kicked out for frolicking in the fountain• It’s ok you had too much fun and your cheeks hurt from laughing• If YOU had a dumb idea too tho don’t go to him expecting him to hold you back or something he’d be the greatest wingman for (harmless inoffensive) dumbassery of all time• Would also make the biggest fool of himself if you found it even remotely amusing (like seok omg these two)• Prides himself (a LOT) in the fact that he can make you at least crack a smile if not burst out laughing in literally any situation• He just..gets really dumb and you end up laughing even if you don’t want to• Best bf• A LOT of funny dancing• Has the time of his life when you join in• Yeah,,cleaning up with music on is quite the sight with you two• I don’t think he’d be SUPER affectionate in public, probably just occasional hand holding• Which of course, is a different story in private, the little devil• Always willing to cuddle, oh my god• There’s also always the tickle fights and him just literally tackling you with love and affection both physically and emotionally but anyway• Likes being the big spoon only marginally better than being the little spoon• There’s just something about holding you in his arms that makes him all warm and fuzzy and melty and he feels like such a man (pats himself on the back, amazing)• But then when you hold HIM, especially after a long, hard day,,,• Yeah ok he loves both ways a lot• Also the type to do the matching couple items thing, especially small things like phone charms/cases or keychains• Probably gifted you hundreds of hamster-related things to remind you of him (that’d be so cute I’m crying at my own idea)• Loves attention, if it wasn’t already clear, and ESPECIALLY from you• Just shines like a diamond :^) even more when you’re looking at him• God, the Extra,,be careful, it’ll wash off on you• So much joy and just,,pure happiness tho, it’s so heart warming and extremely contagious• Always at maximum level of sweetness, a l w a y s• Especially with words• Oh god, he’s such a cheeseball tho, he’d literally take almost anything anyone says and turn it into a love confession• “Hm, it’s a little hot today”• “The weather will never be as hot as the love I have for you”• daMMIT, SOONYOUNG• Tends to blurt things out and can’t keep secrets (which is no secret lmao) so if he’s planning on surprising you with a sweet gesture you’d definitely know about it right away, poor boy• Would also sing to you if given the chance (his voice is so sweet y’all, pls appreciate)• Sometimes you gotta remind him of boundaries, but don't get him wrong, he has a serious side too• Also has that,,other side,,when he’s not being a fluffy squish,,that rude, “sexy” or whatever side (I’m still in denial skdjjd)• He switches those sides so easily and sporadically it’s quite the workout for your heart rip • So much teasing too, in every way ;) putting all those sides to use b y e • Always loves to act cute but don’t let him fool you, he is very mature in that 👀 aspect• I can’t remember where it was from but he’s been revealed to be the most R19+ member and I was not surprised for some reason ?? and my mind was immediately like,,jot that down,,so there’s That • Search up the definition for ‘duality’ and you’ll find a picture of him under it tbh - i just covered this but i need to stress,, he switches up the ‘cute’ and 'sexy’ on you before you can even blink and it’s both the most annoying and impressively attractive thing ever shut up soonyoung• Anyway most dates with him would probably be pretty active and/or competitive• So something like go karts or laser tag, stuff like that are your go-tos, where he can run around and be as hyper as he wants to be and show off to you• Is actually very empathetic, like he’s in touch with his emotions and he’d be able to guess (correctly) how you were feeling without asking; you have a good emotional connection• And he’s very caring so basically he’s everything you could ever need in a boyfriend ok

A/N: Aaaahhh thank you so much for reading and liking my stuff, and requesting!! I’m sorry it’s a bit late, but I hope you like it! I might add onto this later on if I have time and more ideas, like all my other headcanons 😅 But thank you so so much for reading!! 💞💞💞(and oh god, I have such a soft spot for Hoshi, especially with the new comeback, so I enjoyed this a lot)

Mun Interview

I was tagged by the lovely @thegravemistergraves

1) Are you really ready for 111 questions? Let’s do this! 2) Where are you taking this test at? My bedroom, at my desk. 3) Was your last real relationship a mistake? I’ve only had one and I broke it off. I didn’t see a future. So... I’d say it wasn’t cause it was a growing experience for me. 4) Who did you last say “I love you” to? My puppy ^^ 5) Do you regret it? Never, I get kisses when I say it. 6) Have you ever been depressed? I have been diagnosed with it. 7) Are you a boy or girl? Girl  8) Do you have a job? Currently no. 9) What is your relationship status? Single and with no player 2. 10) How do you want to die? The most peaceful way with family around me at ripe old age. 11) What did you last eat? Wicked from Which Wich. 12) Played any sports? I played Soccer growing up, but gave it up.  13) Do you bite your nails? Not really. 14) When was your last physical fight? Not sure... 15) Do you have an attitude? It depends. 16) Do you like someone? Yes 17) What is your real name? Kailey 18) What is the background of you computer screen? Tom HIddleston, hands folded, leaning forward, looking at the screen with is beautiful blue eyes. 19) Are you gonna get high later? Not my thing. I have enough anxiety at the thought of it. 20) Do you hate anyone at the moment? I try not too. Hate is a strong word. I reserve it for the worst of people. 21) Do you miss someone? Yes, I really miss my BFF Em. 22) Twirl or cut your spaghetti? I try to twirl it, but if needed I cut it as a last resort. 23) Do you tan a lot? Nope. I’m a pale pale pale death looking Wednesday Addams girl. 24) Have any pets? I have a cat, we think a Blue Russian possible mix. We adopted her a few years ago. She’s named Gracie, though she can do tricks like a dog and loves walks in her stroller. (She likes outside but is an indoor cat.) Then I have Baxter my puppy, service dog in training. He’ll be a year in Sept. He’s a Miniature Goldendoodle. Very blessed to have him. 25) How exactly are you feeling?! Cool, I like it. 26) Ever eaten food in a car while someone or yourself is driving? Yep 27) Ever made out in the bathroom? Nope, if ever I’d only do such a thing in my own. I don’t trust public ones enough to even sit bare ass on a toilet. 28) Would you take any of your exes back? I’ve only had one, and I’d rather only to stay his friend if I got in touch with him again. 29) Are you afraid of spiders? It depends. If my cat is around I enjoy them cause I like helping her or watching her catch them. 30) Would you go back in time if you were given the chance? If it wouldn’t change the current state of things... I think I would to have a bit more time with my Grandmother and maybe meet my other one I never knew. Maybe get to meet my great grandfather that passed when my grandmother was a little girl.  31) Do you regret anything from your past? If I think on it I’m sure, but I can’t change it and many times I’ve learned from it. 32) What are your plans for this weekend? Survie 33) Do you want to have kids? One day I would hope for one of each at least. 34) Did you ever kiss someone whose name starts with an M? I’ve never kissed in general other then family. 35) Do you type fast? I can actually depending on the subject and if I can spell properly. 36) Do you have piercings? Only my ears and I could never go through that again or others. 37) Want any more? I’m fine thank you. I’m not a fan of needles or pain. 38) Can you spell well? Depends. I have a hard time unless I use a word and memorize it. Was not the best growing up. 39) Do you miss anyone from your past? Many  40) What are you craving right now? Chocolate is always a winner. 41) Ever been to a bonfire party? I think so. 42) Have you ever been to jail? I’m not actually sure. I’ve never been sent to one, but I don’t believe I have ever been to a still working jail. I have been to ones at Historic Places. I used to go to school in Crown Point, IN, so when after they filmed Dillinger with Johnny Depp, we had a trip and I got to at least stand outside the Jail there that they filmed at and the real Dillinger was held.  43) Have you ever been on a horse? Yes 44) Kissed someone in a pick up truck? Only family. And when I say that I mean like cheeks and stuff. 45) Have you ever broken someone’s heart? I’m not sure... from the sounds of it my ex was. 46) Have you ever been cheated on? No idea. Unless you count my pets loving on others. 47) Have you made a boyfriend/girlfriend cry? I don’t believe I have. 48) What time is it currently? 7:08pm 49) Would you live with someone without marrying them? Same sex that’s a friend, I’d be alright with. But opposite, I don’t want to put that in the line of fire. 50) What should you be doing? Relaxing at the moment. 51) What’s irritating you right now? People freaking out over something that they took the wrong way and then replying to it and saying things to it as if I had said it that way. 52) Have you ever liked someone so much that it hurts? YES  53) Does somebody love you? My family and friends, obviously my pets. 54) What is your favorite color? I love Reds. 55) Have you ever changed clothes in a vehicle? Yes actually. I can only remember having to change into a uniform at the moment. 57) Do you have trust issues? In that I trust people too much some times. 58) You are over half way done with this. Are you sure you want to continue? I’m half way there, all down hill from here. 59) Do you have any siblings? A younger brother by around 3 years. 60) Do you have a good relationship with your parents? Yes, though it can be rocky with my mom at times, but we are always working on it and I love her deeply. 61) Do you live with anyone? My parents, I can’t afford living else where. 62) Do you believe your most recent ex thinks about you? Maybe *shrugs* we played Halo a lot together online. 63) Who was the last person you cried in front of? If they were looking, my pets and almost my dad. 64) Do you give out second chances too easily? If I know the person well, I will, but if I don’t and they’re just bad for me and others, their in the deep shit house unless they can prove they mean what they are saying. 65) Is it easier to forgive or forget? I try to do both. I try to forgive things for my own sake first. I don’t wish to dwell on things and let it eat at me and make me bitter and sinful. I rather forgive, pray they learn and move on. Though I still have a hard time forgetting. 66) Is this year the best year of your life? No idea. 67) What was your childhood nickname? My grandfather would call me Kailey Bird. 68) Have you ever walked outside completely naked? No idea if as a kid, but from the point of no longer being allowed to pull that off, HELL TO THE NO. 69) What is your motto in life? When Shit hits the fan, wear a poncho. 70) Do you believe everything happens for a reason? Yes, many times I believe opportunities are left open to us and it’s up to us to accept them willingly or not. 71) What is the last thing you did before you went to bed last night? Talked to my net BFF. 72) Do you have a best friend? Yes... I miss you so much Em *sniffles* 73) What is bothering you? To many things. 74) Have you ever been out of your country? Nope, unless you count Epcot. 75) Do you play the Wii? I don’t have one, but I have a 3DS. 76) Are you listening to music right now? Nope, though the last song I remember a few hours ago was Little Talks. 77) Do you like Chinese food? Yeah ^ ^ 78) Do you know your fathers b- day? Yes I do. 79) Are you afraid of the dark? It’s not the dark that scares me persay, it is what can hide in it. 80) Is cheating ever okay? Depends what you consider cheating. If it’s like a video game from the 90′s, go for it. That’s why there is codes, gamesharks, etc. But everything else, heck no. Unless it’s to save a life. 81) Are you mean? Depends who you ask and when. 82) Can you keep white shoes clean? No idea really. I haven’t had any in so long. 83) What was the last song you listened to? Little Talks 84) Do you believe in true love? Yes I do.  85) What are you currently wearing? A Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter Shirt and loose pants. 86) What do you wear to bed? If I don’t have a pj set, I wear mostly big soft tshirts and short pants or shorts. 87) What is the weather like right now? Looks like possible rain. 88) Do you like the outside? When it’s raining or when I’m at a theme park. Sometimes just to enjoy it for a time as well. But I’m not a fan of being outside all the time. 89) Are you currently bored? Not sure... we’ll see. I got Youtube to watch lol. 90) Do you wanna get married? One day to the right man. 91) Is it cute when a boy/girl calls you baby? No idea, I don’t think I’ve every had it happen. If it’s not an insult, I may be alright or let it slide.  92) Are you hungry? Nope, just ate. 93) Have you ever made out for more than a half hour straight? I don’t even know how to make out. Never done so either. 94) What makes you happy? Psych, that theme song goes on and I’m all grins. Doctor who with Eleven the most. Tom Hiddleston doing something goofy or being Loki. WDW Park related things, such as just walking into a store. Stitch and Angel. So many things. 95) Would you change your name? Not sure. I actually like it. Though its rare to find mine spelt this way or on anything like keychains. 96) Ever been to Alaska? Nope 98) Do you watch the news? Only for weather ever so often. Last resort if nothing is on. 99) What’ s your zodiac sign? Aries 100) Do you like Subway? I used to love it. But can’t really eat it anymore. So I’m on Which Wich now. 101) Would it be hard to kiss the last person you kissed? Sometimes cause Baxter, my puppy, always tries to french kiss me. 102) Your best friend of the opposite sex likes you, what do you do? When did I get one? What kind of like, cause depending, I might be like lets test the waters. 103) Do you talk like your friends? Sometimes ^ ^ 104) What do you plan to do with the rest of your day? Rest, long day. Tired XP 105) Have you ever seen someone you knew & purposely avoided them? Yes, sour things and not needing that anxiety. 106) Do you have a friend of the opposite sex who you can act your complete self around? My brother, he often understands me most. 107) who was the last person of the opposite sex you talked to? The manager at a Which Wich taking my order. 108) Does it matter if your boyfriend/girlfriend smokes? Yes actually. The smell makes me very ill and I’d always be worried for health reasons. 109) Who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with? My mom I think. 110) Favorite lyrics right now?

(( Cause I just heard it and love the song)) Little Talks

Of Monsters and Men Hey! Hey! Hey! I don't like walking around this old and empty house So hold my hand, I'll walk with you my dear The stairs creak as I sleep, It's keeping me awake It's the house telling you to close your eyes And some days I can't even trust myself It's killing me to see you this way 'Cause though the truth may vary This ship will carry our bodies safe to shore Hey! Hey! Hey! There's an old voice in my head That's holding me back Well tell her that I miss our little talks Soon it will all be over, and buried with our past We used to play outside when we were young And full of life and full of love Some days I don't know if I am wrong or right. Your mind is playing tricks on you my dear 'Cause though the truth may vary This ship will carry our bodies safe to shore Hey! Don't listen to a word I say Hey! The screams all sound the same Hey! Though the truth may vary This ship will carry our bodies safe to shore You're gone, gone, gone away, I watched you disappear All that's left is a ghost of you Now we're torn, torn, torn apart, there's nothing we can do, Just let me go, we'll meet again soon Now wait, wait, wait for me, please hang around I'll see you when I fall asleep Hey! Don't listen to a word I say Hey! The screams all sound the same Hey! Though the truth may vary this ship will carry our bodies safe to shore Hey! Don't listen to a word I say Hey! The screams all sound the same Hey! Though the truth may vary This ship will carry our bodies safe to shore Though the truth may vary This ship will carry our bodies safe to shore Though the truth may vary This ship will carry our bodies safe to shore 111) Tag 10 people @ghostriderofthearagon and anyone else up for it. I’m bad at tagging.

The detailed headcanon meme?? ALL OF THEM

Of course you would make me do this... God I hate you.

What does their bedroom look like?

I’ve never thought of these before, I probably won’t go into full detail on each room but some basics. Maybe one day I’ll post pictures to give ideas.

Tracey: it’s pretty clean. She and Bucky keep it clean compared to her work area which is a mess with files and other things for the team with the occasional misplaced paintbrush.

Barry: clean (only because of Darcy) and has a stack of movies and video games in the corner next to his game system at the TV.

Do they have any daily rituals?

Besides work and missions they just do their own thing.

Do they exercise, and if so, what do they do? How often?

Every day. There’s a gym in the tower and compound so they use that to their advantage. Tracey likes to take the dogs for a walk in Central Park; Wanda Sharon or Bucky sometime joins Barry does his own thing.

What would they do if they needed to make dinner but the kitchen was busy?

They both have their own floors in the tower so they’d just make dinner in their own kitchens, but the compound has probably at least two kitchens (maybe I’m making this stuff up), probably one for the team and another for the recruits that we see at the end of AOU. But I think they’d just try and find room to make their own dinner or just wait.

Cleanliness habits (personal, workspace, etc.)

Tracey: Clean around house/floor/room/wherever she lives, but her desk is a slight mess.

Barry: Clean with the occasional mess here and there.

Eating habits and sample daily menu

Barry eats a good bit during the day and Tracey eats regular meals with snacks here and there.

Favorite way to waste time and feelings surrounding wasting time

Tracey: Painting or reading

Barry: Video games or movies

Their thoughts on wasting time is they either hate it because it’s honestly wasting time they could be working or they are really happy because it’s actually free time from work.

Favorite indulgence and feelings surrounding indulging

Tracey: She loves to snack on either something salty or something sweet. Some days it’s pretzels with peanut butter and other days it’s chips.

Barry: He loves to keep his mind going. He either

Makeup?

Tracey varies on makeup and it depends on the occasion. She can go from no makeup to light makeup on a casual day or full face of makeup for parties or something.

Neuroses? Do they recognize them as such?

None that I can think of.

Intellectual pursuits?

I guess to challenge themselves at small things every now and then? I’ve never thought about it.

Favorite book genre?

Tracey: Fantasy and romance

Barry: Scifi and mystery

Sexual Orientation? And, regardless of own orientation, thoughts on sexual orientation in general?

Both are straight and they support any sexual orientation.

Physical abnormalities? (Both visible and not, including injuries/disabilities, long-term illnesses, food-intolerances, etc.)

Tracey has a scar from where Bucky stabbed her in the abdomen, but that’s it. Probably going to get one on her leg from where he shot her too.

Biggest and smallest short term goal?

Get their to do lists of the week done without being stopped by missions/work.

Biggest and smallest long term goal?

I guess have a family for both really. Tracey has always wanted to be featured in an art gallery though.

Preferred mode of dress and rituals surrounding dress

They wear just whatever they like and are comfortable in. I think Barry is more of jeans and shirt kind of guy, but Tracey likes to look cute/fashionable every now and then.

Favorite beverage?

Tracey: Any kind of tea

Barry: Soda

What do they think about before falling asleep at night?

Depending on what’s going on in their lives. Tracey might be thinking of a new project to work on whether it’s with her computer or a painting or if Bucky is out on a mission (or in this current case missing) she thinks and worries about him. Barry if he has a mission the next day keeps going over the details and plans in his head or if he is out on a mission he thinks of his family.

Childhood illnesses? Any interesting stories behind them?

None.

Turn-ons? Turn-offs?

I’m not sure if we are talking sexually or not.

Given a blank piece of paper, a pencil, and nothing to do, what would happen?

Tracey: Draw

Barry: Doodle

How organized are they? How does this organization/disorganization manifest in their everyday life?

Tracey can be organized. She makes sure to clean up any messes she makes while cooking or something else and she makes sure the house/floor/room/whatever is clean. But when it comes to her “art studio” (which is actually just a spare room) it’s messy and then there’s her desk where she works on her computer. It’s like a organized chaos.

Barry is pretty clean, but if he’s in a hurry he will be pretty messy.

Is there one subject of study that they excel at? Or do they even care about intellectual pursuits at all?

Tracey: Art and computer science. With a bit of literature.

Barry: Math, science and history.

How do they see themselves 5 years from today?

Back together with the entire team and happy. Possibly (hopefully) with families.

Do they have any plans for the future? Any contingency plans if things don’t workout?

Tracey is looking for Bucky and depending on his mental state and how long it might take to recover him she will wait to marry him.

Barry plans to propose to Darcy soon.

What is their biggest regret?

What happened during Civil War.

Who do they see as their best friend? Their worst enemy?

Tracey: It’s a tie with Wanda, Sharon and Nat. Best guy friends would be Sam and Steve.

Barry: Clint.

Worst enemies: All the villains they fight?

Reaction to sudden extrapersonal disaster (eg The house is on fire! What do they do?)

They usually have a game plan, but they’d be a little shocked. Barry would be a little more calm than Tracey though.

Reaction to sudden intrapersonal disaster (eg close family member suddenly dies)

They’d be devastated and a little closed off at first.

Most prized possession?

Tracey: Bucky’s dog tags.

Barry: A keychain his dad got him from Germany before he died.

Thoughts on material possessions in general?

Understandable if it has meaning.

Concept of home and family?

They want to live a somewhat normal life with a family despite their jobs and who they are.

Thoughts on privacy? (Are they a private person, or are they prone to ‘TMI’?)

They like to keep their privacy to an extent. Being a part of the Avengers means tabloids will want interviews or write some scandal on them. Paparazzi will follow them. But when it comes to their friends/family/team they might share some stuff depending on what that stuff is.

What activities do they enjoy, but consider to be a waste of time?

Basically anything that is their hobbies or a way anyone wastes time on a day off. The team sometimes has movie nights when everyone isn’t out on a mission or have competitions in sports or games/video games.

What makes them feel guilty?

Depends on the situation like if they feel it’s their fault or something of that nature. Civil War for sure because they end up fighting each other and their friends/family.

Are they more analytical or more emotional in their decision-making?

Barry: Analytical

Tracey: Emotional

Would they consider themselves a Type A or Type B personality?

I guess they are a bit of both. Barry’s definitely competitive with the guys and Tracey isn’t as much, but she gets competitive with Barry but they are twins so that’s a given after growing up together.

What recharges them when they’re feeling drained?

Napping, small snack and maybe doing something that they find relaxing like reading, painting, watching Netflix. Something that just lets them be in their own world for a bit.

Would you say that they have a superiority-complex? Inferiority-complex? Neither?

Neither. But I guess Tracey had an inferiority-complex when she first joined the team since she couldn’t fight or anything besides hacking.

How misanthropic are they?

Not really. I mean they both have their thoughts on some issues and people.

Hobbies?

Tracey: Painting and reading

Barry: Video games

How far did they get in formal education? What are their views on formal education vs self-education?

Tracey: Completed college, got her bachelors in computer science with a minor in art (shocker)

Barry: Finished college but was recruited by S.H.I.E.L.D. by his senior year. so my headcanon is that S.H.I.E.L.D. has some sort of school course or something for those who didn’t complete college or were recruited at a young age. Or something.

Religion?

I’ve never thought about it for them. I’m Catholic so I guess they’d be Catholic? I never really put religion into any of my characters. I might mention going to church in future chapters or stories with them, but not in full detail or anything.

Superstitions or views on the occult?

None

Do they express their thoughts through words or deeds?

Both depending on what the situation is.

If they were to fall in love, who (or what) is their ideal?

Tracey: Bucky

Barry: Darcy

How do they express love?

Dinner, gifts, small things here and there. I’m too tired to give full descriptions of this.

If this person were to get into a fist fight, what is their fighting style like?

Tracey: Throw punches. She can barely fight.

Barry: He calculates the opponents

Is this person afraid of dying? Why or why not?

I think everyone is afraid of it at some point.

Em, I hate you for this. Also I’m sorry it took so long to answer. I’ve been busy helping my parents with moving furniture to a house they built for the past week and hardly had wifi or time to do anything. And this just took way too long that I just gave up on answering some of these.