Germa 66

( @mrprince-of-allblue )

! ! ! !

... You're looking well, Sanji. It's... good to see you. :)

Oh— oh, shit, our little brother's our little sister—

Hey, Sanji. Uh. Looking good?

. . .

💭[He looks just like Mom...]

She mumbles,as convinced of the information as she was disappointed in it. It hadn't cracked for her yet.

Even temporary, you look good. Happier.

The... the hair's nice. You got a new name you're tryin' out, or are you still okay with Sanji?

"Well 'm...'glad'...we aren't in the. Killing eachother thing then."

She shakes her head at both questions for her from her brothers.

Truth be told, little sister, we weren't expecting you to find us that quick. Or really, at all. Thought you'd be off doing your own thing.

Did you want to come sit down? Kitt was attempting to make meringues.

"Attempt" is the right word. [Ichiji smirks, but there's no malice to the expression. Instead, there's something like... fondness.] Her last two batches came out terribly.

[Kitt pauses, searching for the right word.]

Goopy. They were goopy.

Yeah, I... I haven't changed the temperature or the recipe. Just the cook times. I'm still trying to find the sweet spot.

[Reiju notices the flicker of expression on Sanji's face, and her eyes soften.]

Alone? C'mon. We'll suffer with ya. Ichiji likes his food a little on the toasty side anyway.

[Kitt holds up her hands, panicked.] You really— you really don't have to, they're not going to taste good— I don't recommend it! I-I'm pretty sure the burnt ones are totally inedible—!

[Reiju chuckles.] Slow down, Doctor, and don't argue.

[0124ji catch the glance, and collectively, they stiffen as if they'd been struck by some invisible, gut-wrenching force. It's Reiju who reacts first.]

You've both got free reign of the pantry, if you'd like it. We're low on some supplies, but we should have enough for a third batch. Yonji, if they need the space, could you go to the map room and help the Sergeant chart us to an island to resupply?

[Yonji glances from Kitt to Sanji, and something in his eyes makes him look even younger than simply being the youngest Vinsmoke. He looks uncertain, like he wants to stay, to fix something, to try, but doesn't know if he would be allowed. He swallows, then breaks eye contact with both Sanji and Reiju, opting to look at his crutches instead.]

Yeah. Yeah, I— I can do that if you really need me to.

I'll go with you, if needed.

[Niji is quick to chime in, a different expression on his face, but projecting the exact same inner turmoil. He hides his behind a smirk.]

Kitt's probably getting tired of me backseat cooking, anyway.

That's because you don't backseat cook, you just point at what she's doing and say she's doing it wrong.

[Ichiji's expression remains unreadable, but his voice gets impossibly quieter. He's trying to joke, but he's become acutely aware of the memory hanging like a guillotine above them all.]

I'm always messing around when I— oh, shut up, Ichiji. Come on, you'll come too, if we're giving them space to work. You've got the best brain for supply routes, anyway.

She snorts at their nervousness,feeling a little vindicated in their discomfort.

Thanks, Miss Sanji. I really appreciate the help. I'm... mostly self taught, so. I'm probably doing a lot incorrectly. Baking is mostly chemistry, so I thought I'd be better at it than I am.

[Reiju lets out a breath she didn't know she was holding.]

Well. You heard her, boys. No use running off.

[Ichiji signs something with a small, self-deprecating smile, and Yonji snorts.]

Yeah. Uh— 'Chiji said 'it usually just takes two.'

[He glanced at Sanji.] We can teach ya some signs if you wanna learn. No pressure, though. I'm happy to help translate.

Kitchen's this way, ladies. C'mon.

Sanji gives a small smile to Yonji's translation.

"I think I would like to learn."

[Niji elbows Yonji, grinning, and takes a couple of steps inside towards a table off to the side. He sits down, away from the prep, and throws his gloved hands behind his head.]

[Kitt and Reiju make their way to the sink to wash their hands, while Ichiji stands in the doorway, a little surprised.

She's... willing to learn sign. Something clenches at Ichiji's chest for a moment.]

[Kitt turns to Sanji with a bright, easy smile.]

"Ya just needed to wait some more. Meringue is still bakin' outside the oven.

The baking time is 1 hour and the temperature is 107°C."

107°C for an hour. That makes sense! I didn't bake them long enough... and then too long for the other batch. Thank you! Trial and error only go so far, y'know?

[Reiju laughs.]

Careful, little sister. Next, she'll be asking you for your macaron recipes.

[She pauses, then looks at her brothers.]

Ichiji, don't just stand in the doorway. Come on. If you're not gonna help, you can at least work on doing the lunch dishes with Yonji.

[Ichiji does, essaying one cautious step into the kitchen, then another.]

Were you serious about wanting to learn sign?

She starts pouring ingredients into a bowl,turning to Ichiji when he approaches.

Ya should! You'd make bank!

[Beside him, Yonji grins.]

Kitt'd buy three copies. She needs 'em so she can file in triplicate.

She would.

Oi!

[Kitt whips around, whisk in hand, gesturing pointedly at Yonji.] My filing system is immaculate, your highness! Respect it!

[Ichiji inhales, then steps up to the sink to wash his own hands, removing the white gloves from his fingers and tucking them into his belt. Scars cover his skin, both surgical and combat-borne, and when he's done, he reaches up to an upper cabinet where he knows Kitt keeps the piping bags. He sets one next to Sanji, pausing for a minute before he turns to face her.]

[Slowly, very slowly, he raises his hands, and signs the sign for 'name.' He indicates Sanji, and just as slowly, begins to spell her name, making sure that the movements are slow and easy to follow. S-A-N-J-I.]

That's your name. Sanji. I can... I can show you more when you're done. Simple signs. Nice to meet you, thank you, please...

...

...

Sanji tastes the meringue before grabbing the piping bag Ichiji placed by her. She can't help but compare their hands. Sanji's being immaculate,with her refusal to use her hands in fighting.

She stops what she's doing to pay attention to Ichiji's hands,nodding along when he talks, imitating the signs after him.

[The gratitude comes regardless. He makes another sign.]

Thank you.

[Kitt nods, turning back to the bowl she has to continue mimicking Sanji's movements. Ichiji hands her another piping bag.]

No better reason to preserve your knowledge than to allow someone else to use it! Fame is for the birds, anyway. I prefer my records be for utility and storytelling, myself. They're important!

[Reiju leans a hip on the counter, watching the way Kitt diligently begins scooping her mixture into the piping bag.]

( @stealth-black-3 )

!?!?!?!?

... Sanji. You look... different.

... hah. It's like looking at a fucked up funhouse mirror. This is what he woulda looked like if he hadn't gotten out? Huh. Hey, little brother.

The raid suit looks good on ya, at least! Hair's an adjustment.

. . .

Sanji narrows his eyes.

We hurt him. Father pitted us against him, and we followed his lead.

( @mrprince-of-allblue )

! ! ! !

... You're looking well, Sanji. It's... good to see you. :)

Oh— oh, shit, our little brother's our little sister—

Hey, Sanji. Uh. Looking good?

. . .

💭[He looks just like Mom...]

She mumbles,as convinced of the information as she was disappointed in it. It hadn't cracked for her yet.

Even temporary, you look good. Happier.

The... the hair's nice. You got a new name you're tryin' out, or are you still okay with Sanji?

"Well 'm...'glad'...we aren't in the. Killing eachother thing then."

She shakes her head at both questions for her from her brothers.

Truth be told, little sister, we weren't expecting you to find us that quick. Or really, at all. Thought you'd be off doing your own thing.

Did you want to come sit down? Kitt was attempting to make meringues.

"Attempt" is the right word. [Ichiji smirks, but there's no malice to the expression. Instead, there's something like... fondness.] Her last two batches came out terribly.

[Kitt pauses, searching for the right word.]

Goopy. They were goopy.

Yeah, I... I haven't changed the temperature or the recipe. Just the cook times. I'm still trying to find the sweet spot.

[Reiju notices the flicker of expression on Sanji's face, and her eyes soften.]

Alone? C'mon. We'll suffer with ya. Ichiji likes his food a little on the toasty side anyway.

[Kitt holds up her hands, panicked.] You really— you really don't have to, they're not going to taste good— I don't recommend it! I-I'm pretty sure the burnt ones are totally inedible—!

[Reiju chuckles.] Slow down, Doctor, and don't argue.

[0124ji catch the glance, and collectively, they stiffen as if they'd been struck by some invisible, gut-wrenching force. It's Reiju who reacts first.]

You've both got free reign of the pantry, if you'd like it. We're low on some supplies, but we should have enough for a third batch. Yonji, if they need the space, could you go to the map room and help the Sergeant chart us to an island to resupply?

[Yonji glances from Kitt to Sanji, and something in his eyes makes him look even younger than simply being the youngest Vinsmoke. He looks uncertain, like he wants to stay, to fix something, to try, but doesn't know if he would be allowed. He swallows, then breaks eye contact with both Sanji and Reiju, opting to look at his crutches instead.]

Yeah. Yeah, I— I can do that if you really need me to.

I'll go with you, if needed.

[Niji is quick to chime in, a different expression on his face, but projecting the exact same inner turmoil. He hides his behind a smirk.]

Kitt's probably getting tired of me backseat cooking, anyway.

That's because you don't backseat cook, you just point at what she's doing and say she's doing it wrong.

[Ichiji's expression remains unreadable, but his voice gets impossibly quieter. He's trying to joke, but he's become acutely aware of the memory hanging like a guillotine above them all.]

I'm always messing around when I— oh, shut up, Ichiji. Come on, you'll come too, if we're giving them space to work. You've got the best brain for supply routes, anyway.

She snorts at their nervousness,feeling a little vindicated in their discomfort.

Thanks, Miss Sanji. I really appreciate the help. I'm... mostly self taught, so. I'm probably doing a lot incorrectly. Baking is mostly chemistry, so I thought I'd be better at it than I am.

[Reiju lets out a breath she didn't know she was holding.]

Well. You heard her, boys. No use running off.

[Ichiji signs something with a small, self-deprecating smile, and Yonji snorts.]

Yeah. Uh— 'Chiji said 'it usually just takes two.'

[He glanced at Sanji.] We can teach ya some signs if you wanna learn. No pressure, though. I'm happy to help translate.

Kitchen's this way, ladies. C'mon.

Sanji gives a small smile to Yonji's translation.

"I think I would like to learn."

[Niji elbows Yonji, grinning, and takes a couple of steps inside towards a table off to the side. He sits down, away from the prep, and throws his gloved hands behind his head.]

[Kitt and Reiju make their way to the sink to wash their hands, while Ichiji stands in the doorway, a little surprised.

She's... willing to learn sign. Something clenches at Ichiji's chest for a moment.]

[Kitt turns to Sanji with a bright, easy smile.]

"Ya just needed to wait some more. Meringue is still bakin' outside the oven.

The baking time is 1 hour and the temperature is 107°C."

107°C for an hour. That makes sense! I didn't bake them long enough... and then too long for the other batch. Thank you! Trial and error only go so far, y'know?

[Reiju laughs.]

Careful, little sister. Next, she'll be asking you for your macaron recipes.

[She pauses, then looks at her brothers.]

Ichiji, don't just stand in the doorway. Come on. If you're not gonna help, you can at least work on doing the lunch dishes with Yonji.

[Ichiji does, essaying one cautious step into the kitchen, then another.]

Were you serious about wanting to learn sign?

She starts pouring ingredients into a bowl,turning to Ichiji when he approaches.

Ya should! You'd make bank!

[Beside him, Yonji grins.]

Kitt'd buy three copies. She needs 'em so she can file in triplicate.

She would.

Oi!

[Kitt whips around, whisk in hand, gesturing pointedly at Yonji.] My filing system is immaculate, your highness! Respect it!

[Ichiji inhales, then steps up to the sink to wash his own hands, removing the white gloves from his fingers and tucking them into his belt. Scars cover his skin, both surgical and combat-borne, and when he's done, he reaches up to an upper cabinet where he knows Kitt keeps the piping bags. He sets one next to Sanji, pausing for a minute before he turns to face her.]

[Slowly, very slowly, he raises his hands, and signs the sign for 'name.' He indicates Sanji, and just as slowly, begins to spell her name, making sure that the movements are slow and easy to follow. S-A-N-J-I.]

That's your name. Sanji. I can... I can show you more when you're done. Simple signs. Nice to meet you, thank you, please...

...

...

( @stealth-black-3 )

!?!?!?!?

... Sanji. You look... different.

... hah. It's like looking at a fucked up funhouse mirror. This is what he woulda looked like if he hadn't gotten out? Huh. Hey, little brother.

The raid suit looks good on ya, at least! Hair's an adjustment.

. . .

Sanji narrows his eyes.

We hurt him. Father pitted us against him, and we followed his lead.

Average Niji and Sanji conversation

Now that i know the Vinsmoke brothers are quadruplets i imagined them as this audio (healthy version wow)

( @mrprince-of-allblue )

! ! ! !

... You're looking well, Sanji. It's... good to see you. :)

Oh— oh, shit, our little brother's our little sister—

Hey, Sanji. Uh. Looking good?

. . .

💭[He looks just like Mom...]

She mumbles,as convinced of the information as she was disappointed in it. It hadn't cracked for her yet.

Even temporary, you look good. Happier.

The... the hair's nice. You got a new name you're tryin' out, or are you still okay with Sanji?

"Well 'm...'glad'...we aren't in the. Killing eachother thing then."

She shakes her head at both questions for her from her brothers.

Truth be told, little sister, we weren't expecting you to find us that quick. Or really, at all. Thought you'd be off doing your own thing.

Did you want to come sit down? Kitt was attempting to make meringues.

"Attempt" is the right word. [Ichiji smirks, but there's no malice to the expression. Instead, there's something like... fondness.] Her last two batches came out terribly.

[Kitt pauses, searching for the right word.]

Goopy. They were goopy.

Yeah, I... I haven't changed the temperature or the recipe. Just the cook times. I'm still trying to find the sweet spot.

[Reiju notices the flicker of expression on Sanji's face, and her eyes soften.]

Alone? C'mon. We'll suffer with ya. Ichiji likes his food a little on the toasty side anyway.

[Kitt holds up her hands, panicked.] You really— you really don't have to, they're not going to taste good— I don't recommend it! I-I'm pretty sure the burnt ones are totally inedible—!

[Reiju chuckles.] Slow down, Doctor, and don't argue.

[0124ji catch the glance, and collectively, they stiffen as if they'd been struck by some invisible, gut-wrenching force. It's Reiju who reacts first.]

You've both got free reign of the pantry, if you'd like it. We're low on some supplies, but we should have enough for a third batch. Yonji, if they need the space, could you go to the map room and help the Sergeant chart us to an island to resupply?

[Yonji glances from Kitt to Sanji, and something in his eyes makes him look even younger than simply being the youngest Vinsmoke. He looks uncertain, like he wants to stay, to fix something, to try, but doesn't know if he would be allowed. He swallows, then breaks eye contact with both Sanji and Reiju, opting to look at his crutches instead.]

Yeah. Yeah, I— I can do that if you really need me to.

I'll go with you, if needed.

[Niji is quick to chime in, a different expression on his face, but projecting the exact same inner turmoil. He hides his behind a smirk.]

Kitt's probably getting tired of me backseat cooking, anyway.

That's because you don't backseat cook, you just point at what she's doing and say she's doing it wrong.

[Ichiji's expression remains unreadable, but his voice gets impossibly quieter. He's trying to joke, but he's become acutely aware of the memory hanging like a guillotine above them all.]

I'm always messing around when I— oh, shut up, Ichiji. Come on, you'll come too, if we're giving them space to work. You've got the best brain for supply routes, anyway.

She snorts at their nervousness,feeling a little vindicated in their discomfort.

Thanks, Miss Sanji. I really appreciate the help. I'm... mostly self taught, so. I'm probably doing a lot incorrectly. Baking is mostly chemistry, so I thought I'd be better at it than I am.

[Reiju lets out a breath she didn't know she was holding.]

Well. You heard her, boys. No use running off.

[Ichiji signs something with a small, self-deprecating smile, and Yonji snorts.]

Yeah. Uh— 'Chiji said 'it usually just takes two.'

[He glanced at Sanji.] We can teach ya some signs if you wanna learn. No pressure, though. I'm happy to help translate.

Kitchen's this way, ladies. C'mon.

Sanji gives a small smile to Yonji's translation.

"I think I would like to learn."

[Niji elbows Yonji, grinning, and takes a couple of steps inside towards a table off to the side. He sits down, away from the prep, and throws his gloved hands behind his head.]

[Kitt and Reiju make their way to the sink to wash their hands, while Ichiji stands in the doorway, a little surprised.

She's... willing to learn sign. Something clenches at Ichiji's chest for a moment.]

[Kitt turns to Sanji with a bright, easy smile.]

"Ya just needed to wait some more. Meringue is still bakin' outside the oven.

The baking time is 1 hour and the temperature is 107°C."

107°C for an hour. That makes sense! I didn't bake them long enough... and then too long for the other batch. Thank you! Trial and error only go so far, y'know?

[Reiju laughs.]

Careful, little sister. Next, she'll be asking you for your macaron recipes.

[She pauses, then looks at her brothers.]

Ichiji, don't just stand in the doorway. Come on. If you're not gonna help, you can at least work on doing the lunch dishes with Yonji.

[Ichiji does, essaying one cautious step into the kitchen, then another.]

Were you serious about wanting to learn sign?

( @stealth-black-3 )

!?!?!?!?

... Sanji. You look... different.

... hah. It's like looking at a fucked up funhouse mirror. This is what he woulda looked like if he hadn't gotten out? Huh. Hey, little brother.

The raid suit looks good on ya, at least! Hair's an adjustment.

. . .

How am i the different one?"

You want the long version, or the short version?

[Ichiji exchanges a glance with Reiju and signs something. She signs back. The exchange is short and swift.]

[Kitt clears her throat, stepping forward with a nervous smile.]

He shot Yonji a glare,looking his younger brother up and down before turning back to Niji.

"Proceed how you may see fit."

Sanji listens to the Doctor,frowning at the nervousness.

... not just because of her. She's the one who fixed us up after the fight on Whole Cake, but... someone else helped, too.

He procecess the information of the loss and the fact that his siblings were very,very different.

He repeated,looking up at Ichiji with annoyance clear in his face. The only emotion he had expressed until now.

[Niji sneers.] The moron. Y'know, we were the only ones on that damn island without an assassination plot. You know how humiliating that was?

Niji—

[Kitt steps forward, clearing her throat as she shakes her head slowly.]

They're like this because they asked me for help. By myself, as the only scientist left, I did what I could. The best I could.

Who knows? Might turn to piracy. Might set up on an abandoned island and re-establish the kingdom. Might do neither of those things! We have options.

Sanji holds Ichiji's stare with disdain.

What's your team cohesion with the rest of Germa like? How well do you work in sync with your siblings? I'm curious.

[He steeples his fingers in front of his mouth, waiting for an answer.]

"We're pretty in sync I would say. As we must be.

[Niji snorts.] Ichiji was just asking. 'Sides, Germa's bound to fail with dear ol' dad at the helm.

[He crosses his arms.] You ever notice how the best strategies never come from him? How they always come from Ichiji, or Reiju, or hell— probably even you, now. None of the good ideas come from him, and yet he takes credit for everything, doesn't he? He's a damn genius when it comes to scientific advancements, or whatever, but he's an utter strategic moron. He thinks he's untouchable. We all did. I bet you do, too. But his fuckin' ego is gonna get everything he values killed or worse if you're not careful.

[He waves a dismissive hand.] Just making sure you're not blindsided when it happens. Not if. When.

He blinks calmly,thinking about their immediate reactions to seeing him.

But it was his choice. More than we can say about us.

[Reiju, who has been silent for most of this, finally speaks up.]

( @stealth-black-3 )

!?!?!?!?

... Sanji. You look... different.

... hah. It's like looking at a fucked up funhouse mirror. This is what he woulda looked like if he hadn't gotten out? Huh. Hey, little brother.

The raid suit looks good on ya, at least! Hair's an adjustment.

. . .

How am i the different one?"

You want the long version, or the short version?

[Ichiji exchanges a glance with Reiju and signs something. She signs back. The exchange is short and swift.]

[Kitt clears her throat, stepping forward with a nervous smile.]

He shot Yonji a glare,looking his younger brother up and down before turning back to Niji.

"Proceed how you may see fit."

Sanji listens to the Doctor,frowning at the nervousness.

... not just because of her. She's the one who fixed us up after the fight on Whole Cake, but... someone else helped, too.

He procecess the information of the loss and the fact that his siblings were very,very different.

He repeated,looking up at Ichiji with annoyance clear in his face. The only emotion he had expressed until now.

[Niji sneers.] The moron. Y'know, we were the only ones on that damn island without an assassination plot. You know how humiliating that was?

Niji—

[Kitt steps forward, clearing her throat as she shakes her head slowly.]

They're like this because they asked me for help. By myself, as the only scientist left, I did what I could. The best I could.

Who knows? Might turn to piracy. Might set up on an abandoned island and re-establish the kingdom. Might do neither of those things! We have options.

Sanji holds Ichiji's stare with disdain.

What's your team cohesion with the rest of Germa like? How well do you work in sync with your siblings? I'm curious.

[He steeples his fingers in front of his mouth, waiting for an answer.]

"We're pretty in sync I would say. As we must be.

[Niji snorts.] Ichiji was just asking. 'Sides, Germa's bound to fail with dear ol' dad at the helm.

[He crosses his arms.] You ever notice how the best strategies never come from him? How they always come from Ichiji, or Reiju, or hell— probably even you, now. None of the good ideas come from him, and yet he takes credit for everything, doesn't he? He's a damn genius when it comes to scientific advancements, or whatever, but he's an utter strategic moron. He thinks he's untouchable. We all did. I bet you do, too. But his fuckin' ego is gonna get everything he values killed or worse if you're not careful.

[He waves a dismissive hand.] Just making sure you're not blindsided when it happens. Not if. When.

( @mrprince-of-allblue )

! ! ! !

... You're looking well, Sanji. It's... good to see you. :)

Oh— oh, shit, our little brother's our little sister—

Hey, Sanji. Uh. Looking good?

. . .

💭[He looks just like Mom...]

She mumbles,as convinced of the information as she was disappointed in it. It hadn't cracked for her yet.

Even temporary, you look good. Happier.

The... the hair's nice. You got a new name you're tryin' out, or are you still okay with Sanji?

"Well 'm...'glad'...we aren't in the. Killing eachother thing then."

She shakes her head at both questions for her from her brothers.

Truth be told, little sister, we weren't expecting you to find us that quick. Or really, at all. Thought you'd be off doing your own thing.

Did you want to come sit down? Kitt was attempting to make meringues.

"Attempt" is the right word. [Ichiji smirks, but there's no malice to the expression. Instead, there's something like... fondness.] Her last two batches came out terribly.

[Kitt pauses, searching for the right word.]

Goopy. They were goopy.

Yeah, I... I haven't changed the temperature or the recipe. Just the cook times. I'm still trying to find the sweet spot.

[Reiju notices the flicker of expression on Sanji's face, and her eyes soften.]

Alone? C'mon. We'll suffer with ya. Ichiji likes his food a little on the toasty side anyway.

[Kitt holds up her hands, panicked.] You really— you really don't have to, they're not going to taste good— I don't recommend it! I-I'm pretty sure the burnt ones are totally inedible—!

[Reiju chuckles.] Slow down, Doctor, and don't argue.

[0124ji catch the glance, and collectively, they stiffen as if they'd been struck by some invisible, gut-wrenching force. It's Reiju who reacts first.]

You've both got free reign of the pantry, if you'd like it. We're low on some supplies, but we should have enough for a third batch. Yonji, if they need the space, could you go to the map room and help the Sergeant chart us to an island to resupply?

[Yonji glances from Kitt to Sanji, and something in his eyes makes him look even younger than simply being the youngest Vinsmoke. He looks uncertain, like he wants to stay, to fix something, to try, but doesn't know if he would be allowed. He swallows, then breaks eye contact with both Sanji and Reiju, opting to look at his crutches instead.]

Yeah. Yeah, I— I can do that if you really need me to.

I'll go with you, if needed.

[Niji is quick to chime in, a different expression on his face, but projecting the exact same inner turmoil. He hides his behind a smirk.]

Kitt's probably getting tired of me backseat cooking, anyway.

That's because you don't backseat cook, you just point at what she's doing and say she's doing it wrong.

[Ichiji's expression remains unreadable, but his voice gets impossibly quieter. He's trying to joke, but he's become acutely aware of the memory hanging like a guillotine above them all.]

I'm always messing around when I— oh, shut up, Ichiji. Come on, you'll come too, if we're giving them space to work. You've got the best brain for supply routes, anyway.

She snorts at their nervousness,feeling a little vindicated in their discomfort.

Thanks, Miss Sanji. I really appreciate the help. I'm... mostly self taught, so. I'm probably doing a lot incorrectly. Baking is mostly chemistry, so I thought I'd be better at it than I am.

[Reiju lets out a breath she didn't know she was holding.]

Well. You heard her, boys. No use running off.

[Ichiji signs something with a small, self-deprecating smile, and Yonji snorts.]

Yeah. Uh— 'Chiji said 'it usually just takes two.'

[He glanced at Sanji.] We can teach ya some signs if you wanna learn. No pressure, though. I'm happy to help translate.

Kitchen's this way, ladies. C'mon.

Sanji gives a small smile to Yonji's translation.

"I think I would like to learn."

[Niji elbows Yonji, grinning, and takes a couple of steps inside towards a table off to the side. He sits down, away from the prep, and throws his gloved hands behind his head.]

[Kitt and Reiju make their way to the sink to wash their hands, while Ichiji stands in the doorway, a little surprised.

She's... willing to learn sign. Something clenches at Ichiji's chest for a moment.]

[Kitt turns to Sanji with a bright, easy smile.]

( @stealth-black-3 )

!?!?!?!?

... Sanji. You look... different.

... hah. It's like looking at a fucked up funhouse mirror. This is what he woulda looked like if he hadn't gotten out? Huh. Hey, little brother.

The raid suit looks good on ya, at least! Hair's an adjustment.

. . .

How am i the different one?"

You want the long version, or the short version?

[Ichiji exchanges a glance with Reiju and signs something. She signs back. The exchange is short and swift.]

[Kitt clears her throat, stepping forward with a nervous smile.]

He shot Yonji a glare,looking his younger brother up and down before turning back to Niji.

"Proceed how you may see fit."

Sanji listens to the Doctor,frowning at the nervousness.

... not just because of her. She's the one who fixed us up after the fight on Whole Cake, but... someone else helped, too.

He procecess the information of the loss and the fact that his siblings were very,very different.

He repeated,looking up at Ichiji with annoyance clear in his face. The only emotion he had expressed until now.

[Niji sneers.] The moron. Y'know, we were the only ones on that damn island without an assassination plot. You know how humiliating that was?

Niji—

[Kitt steps forward, clearing her throat as she shakes her head slowly.]

They're like this because they asked me for help. By myself, as the only scientist left, I did what I could. The best I could.

Who knows? Might turn to piracy. Might set up on an abandoned island and re-establish the kingdom. Might do neither of those things! We have options.

Sanji holds Ichiji's stare with disdain.

What's your team cohesion with the rest of Germa like? How well do you work in sync with your siblings? I'm curious.

[He steeples his fingers in front of his mouth, waiting for an answer.]

"We're pretty in sync I would say. As we must be.

[Niji snorts.] Ichiji was just asking. 'Sides, Germa's bound to fail with dear ol' dad at the helm.

[He crosses his arms.] You ever notice how the best strategies never come from him? How they always come from Ichiji, or Reiju, or hell— probably even you, now. None of the good ideas come from him, and yet he takes credit for everything, doesn't he? He's a damn genius when it comes to scientific advancements, or whatever, but he's an utter strategic moron. He thinks he's untouchable. We all did. I bet you do, too. But his fuckin' ego is gonna get everything he values killed or worse if you're not careful.

( @stealth-black-3 )

!?!?!?!?

... Sanji. You look... different.

... hah. It's like looking at a fucked up funhouse mirror. This is what he woulda looked like if he hadn't gotten out? Huh. Hey, little brother.

The raid suit looks good on ya, at least! Hair's an adjustment.

. . .

How am i the different one?"

You want the long version, or the short version?

[Ichiji exchanges a glance with Reiju and signs something. She signs back. The exchange is short and swift.]

[Kitt clears her throat, stepping forward with a nervous smile.]

He shot Yonji a glare,looking his younger brother up and down before turning back to Niji.

"Proceed how you may see fit."

Sanji listens to the Doctor,frowning at the nervousness.

... not just because of her. She's the one who fixed us up after the fight on Whole Cake, but... someone else helped, too.

He procecess the information of the loss and the fact that his siblings were very,very different.

He repeated,looking up at Ichiji with annoyance clear in his face. The only emotion he had expressed until now.

[Niji sneers.] The moron. Y'know, we were the only ones on that damn island without an assassination plot. You know how humiliating that was?

Niji—

[Kitt steps forward, clearing her throat as she shakes her head slowly.]

They're like this because they asked me for help. By myself, as the only scientist left, I did what I could. The best I could.

Who knows? Might turn to piracy. Might set up on an abandoned island and re-establish the kingdom. Might do neither of those things! We have options.

Sanji holds Ichiji's stare with disdain.

What's your team cohesion with the rest of Germa like? How well do you work in sync with your siblings? I'm curious.

[He steeples his fingers in front of his mouth, waiting for an answer.]

( @mrprince-of-allblue )

! ! ! !

... You're looking well, Sanji. It's... good to see you. :)

Oh— oh, shit, our little brother's our little sister—

Hey, Sanji. Uh. Looking good?

. . .

💭[He looks just like Mom...]

She mumbles,as convinced of the information as she was disappointed in it. It hadn't cracked for her yet.

Even temporary, you look good. Happier.

The... the hair's nice. You got a new name you're tryin' out, or are you still okay with Sanji?

"Well 'm...'glad'...we aren't in the. Killing eachother thing then."

She shakes her head at both questions for her from her brothers.

Truth be told, little sister, we weren't expecting you to find us that quick. Or really, at all. Thought you'd be off doing your own thing.

Did you want to come sit down? Kitt was attempting to make meringues.

"Attempt" is the right word. [Ichiji smirks, but there's no malice to the expression. Instead, there's something like... fondness.] Her last two batches came out terribly.

[Kitt pauses, searching for the right word.]

Goopy. They were goopy.

Yeah, I... I haven't changed the temperature or the recipe. Just the cook times. I'm still trying to find the sweet spot.

[Reiju notices the flicker of expression on Sanji's face, and her eyes soften.]

Alone? C'mon. We'll suffer with ya. Ichiji likes his food a little on the toasty side anyway.

[Kitt holds up her hands, panicked.] You really— you really don't have to, they're not going to taste good— I don't recommend it! I-I'm pretty sure the burnt ones are totally inedible—!

[Reiju chuckles.] Slow down, Doctor, and don't argue.

[0124ji catch the glance, and collectively, they stiffen as if they'd been struck by some invisible, gut-wrenching force. It's Reiju who reacts first.]

You've both got free reign of the pantry, if you'd like it. We're low on some supplies, but we should have enough for a third batch. Yonji, if they need the space, could you go to the map room and help the Sergeant chart us to an island to resupply?

[Yonji glances from Kitt to Sanji, and something in his eyes makes him look even younger than simply being the youngest Vinsmoke. He looks uncertain, like he wants to stay, to fix something, to try, but doesn't know if he would be allowed. He swallows, then breaks eye contact with both Sanji and Reiju, opting to look at his crutches instead.]

Yeah. Yeah, I— I can do that if you really need me to.

I'll go with you, if needed.

[Niji is quick to chime in, a different expression on his face, but projecting the exact same inner turmoil. He hides his behind a smirk.]

Kitt's probably getting tired of me backseat cooking, anyway.

That's because you don't backseat cook, you just point at what she's doing and say she's doing it wrong.

[Ichiji's expression remains unreadable, but his voice gets impossibly quieter. He's trying to joke, but he's become acutely aware of the memory hanging like a guillotine above them all.]

I'm always messing around when I— oh, shut up, Ichiji. Come on, you'll come too, if we're giving them space to work. You've got the best brain for supply routes, anyway.

She snorts at their nervousness,feeling a little vindicated in their discomfort.

Thanks, Miss Sanji. I really appreciate the help. I'm... mostly self taught, so. I'm probably doing a lot incorrectly. Baking is mostly chemistry, so I thought I'd be better at it than I am.

[Reiju lets out a breath she didn't know she was holding.]

Well. You heard her, boys. No use running off.

[Ichiji signs something with a small, self-deprecating smile, and Yonji snorts.]

Yeah. Uh— 'Chiji said 'it usually just takes two.'

[He glanced at Sanji.] We can teach ya some signs if you wanna learn. No pressure, though. I'm happy to help translate.

Kitchen's this way, ladies. C'mon.

( @stealth-black-3 )

!?!?!?!?

... Sanji. You look... different.

... hah. It's like looking at a fucked up funhouse mirror. This is what he woulda looked like if he hadn't gotten out? Huh. Hey, little brother.

The raid suit looks good on ya, at least! Hair's an adjustment.

. . .

How am i the different one?"

You want the long version, or the short version?

[Ichiji exchanges a glance with Reiju and signs something. She signs back. The exchange is short and swift.]

[Kitt clears her throat, stepping forward with a nervous smile.]

He shot Yonji a glare,looking his younger brother up and down before turning back to Niji.

"Proceed how you may see fit."

Sanji listens to the Doctor,frowning at the nervousness.

... not just because of her. She's the one who fixed us up after the fight on Whole Cake, but... someone else helped, too.

He procecess the information of the loss and the fact that his siblings were very,very different.

He repeated,looking up at Ichiji with annoyance clear in his face. The only emotion he had expressed until now.

[Niji sneers.] The moron. Y'know, we were the only ones on that damn island without an assassination plot. You know how humiliating that was?

Niji—

[Kitt steps forward, clearing her throat as she shakes her head slowly.]

They're like this because they asked me for help. By myself, as the only scientist left, I did what I could. The best I could.

Who knows? Might turn to piracy. Might set up on an abandoned island and re-establish the kingdom. Might do neither of those things! We have options.

( @mrprince-of-allblue )

! ! ! !

... You're looking well, Sanji. It's... good to see you. :)

Oh— oh, shit, our little brother's our little sister—

Hey, Sanji. Uh. Looking good?

. . .

💭[He looks just like Mom...]

She mumbles,as convinced of the information as she was disappointed in it. It hadn't cracked for her yet.

Even temporary, you look good. Happier.

The... the hair's nice. You got a new name you're tryin' out, or are you still okay with Sanji?

"Well 'm...'glad'...we aren't in the. Killing eachother thing then."

She shakes her head at both questions for her from her brothers.

Truth be told, little sister, we weren't expecting you to find us that quick. Or really, at all. Thought you'd be off doing your own thing.

Did you want to come sit down? Kitt was attempting to make meringues.

"Attempt" is the right word. [Ichiji smirks, but there's no malice to the expression. Instead, there's something like... fondness.] Her last two batches came out terribly.

[Kitt pauses, searching for the right word.]

Goopy. They were goopy.

Yeah, I... I haven't changed the temperature or the recipe. Just the cook times. I'm still trying to find the sweet spot.

[Reiju notices the flicker of expression on Sanji's face, and her eyes soften.]

Alone? C'mon. We'll suffer with ya. Ichiji likes his food a little on the toasty side anyway.

[Kitt holds up her hands, panicked.] You really— you really don't have to, they're not going to taste good— I don't recommend it! I-I'm pretty sure the burnt ones are totally inedible—!

[Reiju chuckles.] Slow down, Doctor, and don't argue.

[0124ji catch the glance, and collectively, they stiffen as if they'd been struck by some invisible, gut-wrenching force. It's Reiju who reacts first.]

You've both got free reign of the pantry, if you'd like it. We're low on some supplies, but we should have enough for a third batch. Yonji, if they need the space, could you go to the map room and help the Sergeant chart us to an island to resupply?

[Yonji glances from Kitt to Sanji, and something in his eyes makes him look even younger than simply being the youngest Vinsmoke. He looks uncertain, like he wants to stay, to fix something, to try, but doesn't know if he would be allowed. He swallows, then breaks eye contact with both Sanji and Reiju, opting to look at his crutches instead.]

Yeah. Yeah, I— I can do that if you really need me to.

I'll go with you, if needed.

[Niji is quick to chime in, a different expression on his face, but projecting the exact same inner turmoil. He hides his behind a smirk.]

Kitt's probably getting tired of me backseat cooking, anyway.

That's because you don't backseat cook, you just point at what she's doing and say she's doing it wrong.

[Ichiji's expression remains unreadable, but his voice gets impossibly quieter. He's trying to joke, but he's become acutely aware of the memory hanging like a guillotine above them all.]

I'm always messing around when I— oh, shut up, Ichiji. Come on, you'll come too, if we're giving them space to work. You've got the best brain for supply routes, anyway.

( @mrprince-of-allblue )

! ! ! !

... You're looking well, Sanji. It's... good to see you. :)

Oh— oh, shit, our little brother's our little sister—

Hey, Sanji. Uh. Looking good?

. . .

💭[He looks just like Mom...]

She mumbles,as convinced of the information as she was disappointed in it. It hadn't cracked for her yet.

Even temporary, you look good. Happier.

The... the hair's nice. You got a new name you're tryin' out, or are you still okay with Sanji?

"Well 'm...'glad'...we aren't in the. Killing eachother thing then."

She shakes her head at both questions for her from her brothers.

Truth be told, little sister, we weren't expecting you to find us that quick. Or really, at all. Thought you'd be off doing your own thing.

Did you want to come sit down? Kitt was attempting to make meringues.

"Attempt" is the right word. [Ichiji smirks, but there's no malice to the expression. Instead, there's something like... fondness.] Her last two batches came out terribly.

[Kitt pauses, searching for the right word.]

Goopy. They were goopy.

Yeah, I... I haven't changed the temperature or the recipe. Just the cook times. I'm still trying to find the sweet spot.

[Reiju notices the flicker of expression on Sanji's face, and her eyes soften.]

Alone? C'mon. We'll suffer with ya. Ichiji likes his food a little on the toasty side anyway.

[Kitt holds up her hands, panicked.] You really— you really don't have to, they're not going to taste good— I don't recommend it! I-I'm pretty sure the burnt ones are totally inedible—!

[Reiju chuckles.] Slow down, Doctor, and don't argue.