you are all to blame

[ He lingers a little too close. Close enough that the rough shadow along his jaw catches the light. ]

[ Without waiting for you to react, he tears the tab open himself. The paper slips free, and he holds it out toward you—impatient, expectant, like the contents are already yours whether you want them or not. ]

— — —

Date: Monday, 03/15/XX

To the Clerk,

Good day.

I respectfully request permission to borrow two guitars—specifically EVOL, and Pansy—along with the necessary equipment required for its use, including an amp, cable, and the standard accessories that I typically request with the instrument.. The equipment will be used solely for practice and will be returned promptly and in proper condition by April 5, XXXX.

For personal reasons, I will not be taking my prescribed medication during the borrowing period. I acknowledge full responsibility for my own condition while using the equipment and will ensure that it does not interfere with the proper handling or return of the items.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,

Frank Iero

@all-th3-angels

[with utter confusion- though luckily being able to mask such an emotion- he sat silently as the short guitarist barged into his office. he set his pen down, opening his mouth to greet his unexpected visitor.]

Hello, Iero. How can I-

[oh? a letter, it seems. he cut himself off, instead devoting half his attention to watching the man in front of him. he hesitantly reached out for the letter that the callused hand held, expertly unfolding the paper.

he read the letter quickly, gathering the main requests and information. guitars, and going off of medications. honestly, not as much as the Clerk was expecting. though, he was no nurse- but he recalled from a brief glance at Iero’s medical chart, it would be unwise for him to stop taking his medication.

looking up from the letter, folding it down the crease, he addressed the man with the vacant expression.]

Upon the nature of your requests, I do not think that we will be unable to fulfil the first. The two guitars- along with the equipment- will be delivered to you at the nearest convenience to us.

[he adjusted his glasses slightly, folding his hands together on the desk.]

What I am not too sure about, though, is your request to cease taking your medication. Due to your past experiences, I simply do not think that it is possible.

I would like to borrow two guitars, and the equipment, no strings attached. I will return them properly.

[ If anything, he wanted the misery. He craved the feeling of having his mind run around and his arms burn with the need to strum it all out; it made for good writing... With all the pills shoved down his throat and the strings turned stiff in his mind, it was horrible, absolutely no way to play! The guitarist truly believed that nothing good came out of 'stale reconditioned music.' The Black Parade would be better off being a happy-go-nothing pop band advertising fake pharmacy products. ]

[ A scoff escapes his lips before he straightens himself. Right, he's quite literally at the heart of the source. His arms remained tucked under each other, one hand tugging at the sleeves of his shirt. It comes to him a little late that he came unprepared; marched in after a good shower with a warm buzz down his spine screaming at him to play something, anything. Maybe it was the cheeseburger he ate with Death, actually... Hey, at least his hair isn't greasy, and the black shirt he's wearing doesn't have an inappropriate print.. ]

[ His eyes glance to the window, returning back to normal as his scoff morphs into a sigh. He swallows in his pride and returns his eyes back to you with a solemn: ]

yet somehow, the Clerk sympathised with him. perhaps if he didn’t feel such animosity towards towards the Band that seemed to provide never-ending torment, he would allow for his request to go without paperwork. the Clerk would almost call it a shame that he never repaired the fleeting bonds that he had made in the past, but now with his position, he was more than glad to be the secondary administrator. the man that held some level of control over the Band’s frivolous affairs.

he returned the cold tone that Iero held in the beginning, decisive and sure. it would be stupid to argue, and yet the Clerk had a feeling that he will be one of the daring people to try.]

You will be allowed to borrow the guitars, however your medication will not change. As I’m sure you are aware, the prescription assists with more than one of your ailments. We- as in Draag, and your precious band- cannot afford you potentially setting back any medical advances for yourself.

..I've been off medication, and I've been fine.

[ His tone comes off a little whiney, like a child begging for more play time in the fields. It's not like he's lying, it's true! He's a capable adult, and can take care of two dogs... Well, maybe there are times where he freezes and has to think of 5 things in the room he can touch, but those aren't frequent at all. He can function, he can work, and more importantly, he's happy in the state he's in— ]

[ Fuck, those are good points. It's composed, and straightened into meaningful arguments, but all the thoughts bubble up hot in his throat and steam out of his ears. ]

What happened to an artist's creative liberty, or whatever? I'm—I'm capable, and functional, and..

[ The keywords leave his mouth but it's executed terribly awfully. He stammers,— god, he stammers— and god it sounds way too close to begging. The hand in his shaggy hair stills and grips a little too hard. ]

just slightly, he cocks an eyebrow. the man might think he is fine off of the medication- and of course he would admit that he had already ceased taking them. the whining enforced the mental image of a dog- but not a tiny one that bites heels- more like an older Rottweiler, worn down by inaction and idleness.]

“Creative liberty?” Are you not able to… liberally create whilst also taking your medications? As I said, we will gladly give you access to your guitars. It is merely the medication that is important you still take.

[his lips were downturned in a pout at the man’s stammering. This encounter must have been very well planned out, besides the letter that he had originally written. he supposed he could forgive his uncleanliness- with his obvious civilian clothing, not prepared for the occasion of visiting a government official- and he supposed he could overlook the stammering, something that even the Clerk suffered from.]

I will not be the one to force you to take your medications, unless if you mean with a few choice words. I am not a man of force.

[ Calming Frank down is not an easy feat. He's short-tempered and snappy (... like a dog). The familiar feeling of unease from the MOAT and guilt dripping down into his system fills him. His mouth dries up and he can't help but chew the insides of his cheeks to ground himself. ]

They.. don't make me feel like myself. You don't get it.

[ He pushes past the sweat and swallows down the bitter feeling. His hand pulls away from his hair and instead starts moving to explain himself—defend himself. Anger and resentment morph into disappointment and distress. Maybe it's years of sitting in a desolate cell and being beat when he dared to linger with his bandmates for too long, or forgetting how to smile after hours of reconditioning— ]

I... I don't think it's that hard to understand— I can't write what I really feel because of the pills.

[ He lingers a little too close. Close enough that the rough shadow along his jaw catches the light. ]

[ Without waiting for you to react, he tears the tab open himself. The paper slips free, and he holds it out toward you—impatient, expectant, like the contents are already yours whether you want them or not. ]

— — —

Date: Monday, 03/15/XX

To the Clerk,

Good day.

I respectfully request permission to borrow two guitars—specifically EVOL, and Pansy—along with the necessary equipment required for its use, including an amp, cable, and the standard accessories that I typically request with the instrument.. The equipment will be used solely for practice and will be returned promptly and in proper condition by April 5, XXXX.

For personal reasons, I will not be taking my prescribed medication during the borrowing period. I acknowledge full responsibility for my own condition while using the equipment and will ensure that it does not interfere with the proper handling or return of the items.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,

Frank Iero

@all-th3-angels

[with utter confusion- though luckily being able to mask such an emotion- he sat silently as the short guitarist barged into his office. he set his pen down, opening his mouth to greet his unexpected visitor.]

Hello, Iero. How can I-

[oh? a letter, it seems. he cut himself off, instead devoting half his attention to watching the man in front of him. he hesitantly reached out for the letter that the callused hand held, expertly unfolding the paper.

he read the letter quickly, gathering the main requests and information. guitars, and going off of medications. honestly, not as much as the Clerk was expecting. though, he was no nurse- but he recalled from a brief glance at Iero’s medical chart, it would be unwise for him to stop taking his medication.

looking up from the letter, folding it down the crease, he addressed the man with the vacant expression.]

Upon the nature of your requests, I do not think that we will be unable to fulfil the first. The two guitars- along with the equipment- will be delivered to you at the nearest convenience to us.

[he adjusted his glasses slightly, folding his hands together on the desk.]

What I am not too sure about, though, is your request to cease taking your medication. Due to your past experiences, I simply do not think that it is possible.

I would like to borrow two guitars, and the equipment, no strings attached. I will return them properly.

[ If anything, he wanted the misery. He craved the feeling of having his mind run around and his arms burn with the need to strum it all out; it made for good writing... With all the pills shoved down his throat and the strings turned stiff in his mind, it was horrible, absolutely no way to play! The guitarist truly believed that nothing good came out of 'stale reconditioned music.' The Black Parade would be better off being a happy-go-nothing pop band advertising fake pharmacy products. ]

[ A scoff escapes his lips before he straightens himself. Right, he's quite literally at the heart of the source. His arms remained tucked under each other, one hand tugging at the sleeves of his shirt. It comes to him a little late that he came unprepared; marched in after a good shower with a warm buzz down his spine screaming at him to play something, anything. Maybe it was the cheeseburger he ate with Death, actually... Hey, at least his hair isn't greasy, and the black shirt he's wearing doesn't have an inappropriate print.. ]

[ His eyes glance to the window, returning back to normal as his scoff morphs into a sigh. He swallows in his pride and returns his eyes back to you with a solemn: ]

yet somehow, the Clerk sympathised with him. perhaps if he didn’t feel such animosity towards towards the Band that seemed to provide never-ending torment, he would allow for his request to go without paperwork. the Clerk would almost call it a shame that he never repaired the fleeting bonds that he had made in the past, but now with his position, he was more than glad to be the secondary administrator. the man that held some level of control over the Band’s frivolous affairs.

he returned the cold tone that Iero held in the beginning, decisive and sure. it would be stupid to argue, and yet the Clerk had a feeling that he will be one of the daring people to try.]

You will be allowed to borrow the guitars, however your medication will not change. As I’m sure you are aware, the prescription assists with more than one of your ailments. We- as in Draag, and your precious band- cannot afford you potentially setting back any medical advances for yourself.

..I've been off medication, and I've been fine.

[ His tone comes off a little whiney, like a child begging for more play time in the fields. It's not like he's lying, it's true! He's a capable adult, and can take care of two dogs... Well, maybe there are times where he freezes and has to think of 5 things in the room he can touch, but those aren't frequent at all. He can function, he can work, and more importantly, he's happy in the state he's in— ]

[ Fuck, those are good points. It's composed, and straightened into meaningful arguments, but all the thoughts bubble up hot in his throat and steam out of his ears. ]

What happened to an artist's creative liberty, or whatever? I'm—I'm capable, and functional, and..

[ The keywords leave his mouth but it's executed terribly awfully. He stammers,— god, he stammers— and god it sounds way too close to begging. The hand in his shaggy hair stills and grips a little too hard. ]

[ He lingers a little too close. Close enough that the rough shadow along his jaw catches the light. ]

[ Without waiting for you to react, he tears the tab open himself. The paper slips free, and he holds it out toward you—impatient, expectant, like the contents are already yours whether you want them or not. ]

— — —

Date: Monday, 03/15/XX

To the Clerk,

Good day.

I respectfully request permission to borrow two guitars—specifically EVOL, and Pansy—along with the necessary equipment required for its use, including an amp, cable, and the standard accessories that I typically request with the instrument.. The equipment will be used solely for practice and will be returned promptly and in proper condition by April 5, XXXX.

For personal reasons, I will not be taking my prescribed medication during the borrowing period. I acknowledge full responsibility for my own condition while using the equipment and will ensure that it does not interfere with the proper handling or return of the items.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,

Frank Iero

@all-th3-angels

[with utter confusion- though luckily being able to mask such an emotion- he sat silently as the short guitarist barged into his office. he set his pen down, opening his mouth to greet his unexpected visitor.]

Hello, Iero. How can I-

[oh? a letter, it seems. he cut himself off, instead devoting half his attention to watching the man in front of him. he hesitantly reached out for the letter that the callused hand held, expertly unfolding the paper.

he read the letter quickly, gathering the main requests and information. guitars, and going off of medications. honestly, not as much as the Clerk was expecting. though, he was no nurse- but he recalled from a brief glance at Iero’s medical chart, it would be unwise for him to stop taking his medication.

looking up from the letter, folding it down the crease, he addressed the man with the vacant expression.]

Upon the nature of your requests, I do not think that we will be unable to fulfil the first. The two guitars- along with the equipment- will be delivered to you at the nearest convenience to us.

[he adjusted his glasses slightly, folding his hands together on the desk.]

What I am not too sure about, though, is your request to cease taking your medication. Due to your past experiences, I simply do not think that it is possible.

I would like to borrow two guitars, and the equipment, no strings attached. I will return them properly.

[ If anything, he wanted the misery. He craved the feeling of having his mind run around and his arms burn with the need to strum it all out; it made for good writing... With all the pills shoved down his throat and the strings turned stiff in his mind, it was horrible, absolutely no way to play! The guitarist truly believed that nothing good came out of 'stale reconditioned music.' The Black Parade would be better off being a happy-go-nothing pop band advertising fake pharmacy products. ]

[ A scoff escapes his lips before he straightens himself. Right, he's quite literally at the heart of the source. His arms remained tucked under each other, one hand tugging at the sleeves of his shirt. It comes to him a little late that he came unprepared; marched in after a good shower with a warm buzz down his spine screaming at him to play something, anything. Maybe it was the cheeseburger he ate with Death, actually... Hey, at least his hair isn't greasy, and the black shirt he's wearing doesn't have an inappropriate print.. ]

[ His eyes glance to the window, returning back to normal as his scoff morphs into a sigh. He swallows in his pride and returns his eyes back to you with a solemn: ]

[ why did Gerard write like that, anyway? He scrunched up his nose at the curls and scratches on the paper-- it was no wonder he was having his doubts. It's like his sibling had scribbled overtop of the original writing twice over, while also blindfolded. Speaking of Gerard, that's the reason he was here in the first place. She'd scolded him heartily for wandering around on his own too much after the last time in which he might've gotten a little lost. But what good was a babysitter for a grown man, anyway? That's what this was. Babysitting. Babysitting like a dog. Oh, dogs. Bob's little business wasn't too far off from here, maybe. He could take a quick jog down that way, say hi, maybe pick up a snack... ]

[ he turned to hum and start on his way idly, the promise of puppies and snacks on his mind-- ]

[ --wait a minute. Task at hand. Frank's. You are literally at Frank's, Mikey ]

[ ... and back he went, turning in another little circle and refocusing himself. He raised his hand and knocked a few times, shifting on his legs and trying to not look as awkward as he felt ]

[ -- @kill-4ll-your-friends ]

[ Frank scrambled to his feet from the couch, the sudden movement startling his dogs. The door clicked open with a leg strategically positioned to prevent Lois from zooming straight out into the lobby. The pudgy man's eyes instinctively zone in to your shoes at first, lowering his head before trailing up those long legs and meeting your face. Kkhm. Just you. ]

..Oh, Mikey. What's up?

Uh, hey Frank... Gee said I should come stay with you. Like... on days I'm alone in the room? I'm not all in one piece still, so, yannow... I get lost easy. They aren't a huge fan of hunting me down, haha....

[ He shuffled backwards, barricading Lois from fleeing and leaving a tiny slither of space for you to come in. Luckily, Soup had a bit more patience and simply stood by. Your entrance was followed by the door swiftly shutting, the guitarist padding behind you and sitting on the couch. The two dogs circle you, loud sniffs and pants filling the silence. ]

How has it been? It's, uh.. been a bit.

[ he realized that Frank had likely meant for lighter, easier small talk by the question... at least to start. Clearing his throat to shut himself up before he could lament any further, he opted to slide down to the floor just in front of the man. He gratefully welcomed paws, tongues, and wet noses with a little giggle that bubbled from his chest between kisses- shielding his face to speak without dog drool ]

Well ... Not much either, hah. I bumped into Gee a couple days ago and ate with her at a diner, though. Otherwise just mundane errands.

[ Moving his gaze to his pet's snoot, he chuckles. Rubbing his thumb against her nose, he continues. ]

[ he knew he was preaching to the choir, but there was no reason to not simply voice what they were both likely thinking. Without dogs clambering over his lap, he was free to shift a bit closer to the couch. Remaining on the floor, he instead leaned back against it and tipped his head to look up at Frank ]

Trust me, I know. Seems they're always stressed these days. I feel bad-- like, I want to help but I don't know how.

[ As he spoke, he couldn't help but press his palm down against your head. Coming to the realization that you are, in fact, not one of his dogs, the heel of his hand lifts and stays hovering by your hair awkwardly. His lips come to a pout, biting the corner of his mouth where it used to be pierced. ]

Me too, I think.

[ straightening his back out a little more gave his room to crane his head up and chase Frank's retreating hand, nudging back into his palm. He liked having his hair pet, thank you very much. Dog or not. ]

[ Still. Careful doesn't hurt. He manages to catch a vague idea of what you've been talking about before letting out a low 'haha what were you just talking about' laugh like he wasn't thinking about how soft your hair just was. Tattooed fingers card through your hair as he musters a reply. ]

[ why did Gerard write like that, anyway? He scrunched up his nose at the curls and scratches on the paper-- it was no wonder he was having his doubts. It's like his sibling had scribbled overtop of the original writing twice over, while also blindfolded. Speaking of Gerard, that's the reason he was here in the first place. She'd scolded him heartily for wandering around on his own too much after the last time in which he might've gotten a little lost. But what good was a babysitter for a grown man, anyway? That's what this was. Babysitting. Babysitting like a dog. Oh, dogs. Bob's little business wasn't too far off from here, maybe. He could take a quick jog down that way, say hi, maybe pick up a snack... ]

[ he turned to hum and start on his way idly, the promise of puppies and snacks on his mind-- ]

[ --wait a minute. Task at hand. Frank's. You are literally at Frank's, Mikey ]

[ ... and back he went, turning in another little circle and refocusing himself. He raised his hand and knocked a few times, shifting on his legs and trying to not look as awkward as he felt ]

[ -- @kill-4ll-your-friends ]

[ Frank scrambled to his feet from the couch, the sudden movement startling his dogs. The door clicked open with a leg strategically positioned to prevent Lois from zooming straight out into the lobby. The pudgy man's eyes instinctively zone in to your shoes at first, lowering his head before trailing up those long legs and meeting your face. Kkhm. Just you. ]

..Oh, Mikey. What's up?

Uh, hey Frank... Gee said I should come stay with you. Like... on days I'm alone in the room? I'm not all in one piece still, so, yannow... I get lost easy. They aren't a huge fan of hunting me down, haha....

[ He shuffled backwards, barricading Lois from fleeing and leaving a tiny slither of space for you to come in. Luckily, Soup had a bit more patience and simply stood by. Your entrance was followed by the door swiftly shutting, the guitarist padding behind you and sitting on the couch. The two dogs circle you, loud sniffs and pants filling the silence. ]

How has it been? It's, uh.. been a bit.

[ he realized that Frank had likely meant for lighter, easier small talk by the question... at least to start. Clearing his throat to shut himself up before he could lament any further, he opted to slide down to the floor just in front of the man. He gratefully welcomed paws, tongues, and wet noses with a little giggle that bubbled from his chest between kisses- shielding his face to speak without dog drool ]

Well ... Not much either, hah. I bumped into Gee a couple days ago and ate with her at a diner, though. Otherwise just mundane errands.

[ Moving his gaze to his pet's snoot, he chuckles. Rubbing his thumb against her nose, he continues. ]

[ he knew he was preaching to the choir, but there was no reason to not simply voice what they were both likely thinking. Without dogs clambering over his lap, he was free to shift a bit closer to the couch. Remaining on the floor, he instead leaned back against it and tipped his head to look up at Frank ]

Trust me, I know. Seems they're always stressed these days. I feel bad-- like, I want to help but I don't know how.

[ As he spoke, he couldn't help but press his palm down against your head. Coming to the realization that you are, in fact, not one of his dogs, the heel of his hand lifts and stays hovering by your hair awkwardly. His lips come to a pout, biting the corner of his mouth where it used to be pierced. ]

get down - Santiago, Chile January 28th, 2026

🏹🦋 - Buenos Aires, Argentina February 1st, 2026

[ why did Gerard write like that, anyway? He scrunched up his nose at the curls and scratches on the paper-- it was no wonder he was having his doubts. It's like his sibling had scribbled overtop of the original writing twice over, while also blindfolded. Speaking of Gerard, that's the reason he was here in the first place. She'd scolded him heartily for wandering around on his own too much after the last time in which he might've gotten a little lost. But what good was a babysitter for a grown man, anyway? That's what this was. Babysitting. Babysitting like a dog. Oh, dogs. Bob's little business wasn't too far off from here, maybe. He could take a quick jog down that way, say hi, maybe pick up a snack... ]

[ he turned to hum and start on his way idly, the promise of puppies and snacks on his mind-- ]

[ --wait a minute. Task at hand. Frank's. You are literally at Frank's, Mikey ]

[ ... and back he went, turning in another little circle and refocusing himself. He raised his hand and knocked a few times, shifting on his legs and trying to not look as awkward as he felt ]

[ -- @kill-4ll-your-friends ]

[ Frank scrambled to his feet from the couch, the sudden movement startling his dogs. The door clicked open with a leg strategically positioned to prevent Lois from zooming straight out into the lobby. The pudgy man's eyes instinctively zone in to your shoes at first, lowering his head before trailing up those long legs and meeting your face. Kkhm. Just you. ]

..Oh, Mikey. What's up?

Uh, hey Frank... Gee said I should come stay with you. Like... on days I'm alone in the room? I'm not all in one piece still, so, yannow... I get lost easy. They aren't a huge fan of hunting me down, haha....

[ He shuffled backwards, barricading Lois from fleeing and leaving a tiny slither of space for you to come in. Luckily, Soup had a bit more patience and simply stood by. Your entrance was followed by the door swiftly shutting, the guitarist padding behind you and sitting on the couch. The two dogs circle you, loud sniffs and pants filling the silence. ]

How has it been? It's, uh.. been a bit.

[ he realized that Frank had likely meant for lighter, easier small talk by the question... at least to start. Clearing his throat to shut himself up before he could lament any further, he opted to slide down to the floor just in front of the man. He gratefully welcomed paws, tongues, and wet noses with a little giggle that bubbled from his chest between kisses- shielding his face to speak without dog drool ]

Well ... Not much either, hah. I bumped into Gee a couple days ago and ate with her at a diner, though. Otherwise just mundane errands.

[ Moving his gaze to his pet's snoot, he chuckles. Rubbing his thumb against her nose, he continues. ]

[ why did Gerard write like that, anyway? He scrunched up his nose at the curls and scratches on the paper-- it was no wonder he was having his doubts. It's like his sibling had scribbled overtop of the original writing twice over, while also blindfolded. Speaking of Gerard, that's the reason he was here in the first place. She'd scolded him heartily for wandering around on his own too much after the last time in which he might've gotten a little lost. But what good was a babysitter for a grown man, anyway? That's what this was. Babysitting. Babysitting like a dog. Oh, dogs. Bob's little business wasn't too far off from here, maybe. He could take a quick jog down that way, say hi, maybe pick up a snack... ]

[ he turned to hum and start on his way idly, the promise of puppies and snacks on his mind-- ]

[ --wait a minute. Task at hand. Frank's. You are literally at Frank's, Mikey ]

[ ... and back he went, turning in another little circle and refocusing himself. He raised his hand and knocked a few times, shifting on his legs and trying to not look as awkward as he felt ]

[ -- @kill-4ll-your-friends ]

[ Frank scrambled to his feet from the couch, the sudden movement startling his dogs. The door clicked open with a leg strategically positioned to prevent Lois from zooming straight out into the lobby. The pudgy man's eyes instinctively zone in to your shoes at first, lowering his head before trailing up those long legs and meeting your face. Kkhm. Just you. ]

..Oh, Mikey. What's up?

Uh, hey Frank... Gee said I should come stay with you. Like... on days I'm alone in the room? I'm not all in one piece still, so, yannow... I get lost easy. They aren't a huge fan of hunting me down, haha....

[ He shuffled backwards, barricading Lois from fleeing and leaving a tiny slither of space for you to come in. Luckily, Soup had a bit more patience and simply stood by. Your entrance was followed by the door swiftly shutting, the guitarist padding behind you and sitting on the couch. The two dogs circle you, loud sniffs and pants filling the silence. ]

How has it been? It's, uh.. been a bit.

B-Set Frankie - Santiago, Chile January 29th, 2026

[ Soup is a relatively behaved dog; which is why he's surprised when she strays from her usual path to sniff a stranger. He tries to softly usher her back, before giving in and getting led by her leash. His eyes lift up to a familiar face. That explains it. ]

..Ah, Death. It's been a while, hey.

— @all-th3-angels

(it certainly had been a while, and Death hadn't been expecting to see Frank much really at all until the next set of shows started. . . but it was more than pleasant to see him in any case.

by the time Frank had spoken up, they had already leant down a little to scratch Soup behind the ears, before straightening and giving the man a wide smile.

despite everything, they could still manage to be cheery enough.)

[ Frank gave a smile, less tense now that he knows that he didn't just interrupt a stranger's walk. He steps closer, causing Soup to sit down and wag her tail. Idly petting her head, he replies. ]

this was significantly less genuine than it had been beforehand, though.)

I am managing as well as I can, the break is nice. it's good without all the pressure. . . Mikey is doing alright too. Ray is - he was taken away.

[ Frank's hand would still, blinking slowly as the words came to his ears. He was taken away. That's.. definitely not good to hear. Soup lifts her head up to press her nuzzle against the curve of his palm, a whine at the stopped movement. He hums with a slight frown, rubbing his thumb against her nose. After swallowing down an irrational choice of words, he replies. ]

he's been taken to a mental hospital, I believe. that's what they said before they sedated me, anyway. I don't - I haven't heard anything since.

it's - yes, I know. . . thank you. I don't - I don't want you to get mixed up in that entire situation, in case anything happens to you. I don't think they'll bother with you as much if you keep away from me but-

[ Frank would offer with the tilt of his head, in the direction of a cheap fast food place nearby. It was close to lunch hours, ..and he could use a meal by now. ]

(that was certainly true, with all the things happening recently it had been so difficult for them to find a moment to actually properly relax.)

[ Frank slowly turns on his heel, making sure you're following him and he doesn't look like a complete idiot. As soon as he starts moving, Soup weaves through his legs, somehow between his legs with every step he makes. Frank manages to untangle her from his legs before crossing the sidewalk, fixing the leash from around his fingers while doing so. ]

Uh.. How's Illi treating you? Sorry I haven't been able to, like.. babysit, recently.

but it seemed that wasn't the case here. they walked in after him.)

[ Frank would nod, closing the hardcover and sliding it to the side to clasp his hands. He puts his elbows on the table, slightly awkward after not having talked in a long while. ]

(they sigh a little, but don't dwell on that for too long. a moment later and there's a smile on their face again, albeit a tiny bit more enthusiastic than was genuine. there was some realness to it though. . .)

[ Frank would hum in reply. He remembers specifically requesting that.. Couldn't go a day without visiting his dogs once. They're like his children, to him. He continues speaking, a hand on top of Soup's head. ]

(their smile became more genuine for a moment, thinking of any possibility of something normal was enough to make them happier.)

well. . . ah. the usual kind of stuff. the Dictator still makes a point to torture us whenever he can, though he seems to be aiming it at me and my family more than anyone else. . .

[ He replies, watching as the waiter comes with the food, placing the trays on the table. Frank sneaks Soup a fry before lifting his burger bun to put ketchup. ]

(they shrugged, turning attention briefly to their food before glancing back over at Frank as he continued to speak.)

Uh.. I miss when we were playing for fun, y'know? Before this..

[ A sigh interrupts his thoughts and its further distracted by a bite. He's hungry. Can't wait any longer. ]

hm, yes. I performed with Maya on her tour - and I sing a little to myself sometimes.

(they smile, thinking for a moment before coming back to reality. the smile remains but they continue to eat before leaning back.)

[ Frank chuckled, pausing to put a fry in his mouth. Food was cheap here, and it was decently good. ]

(they don't seem offended at all though, they only laugh a little. it wasn't like they'd played in front of anyone else recently anyway.)

[ He shrugged, not as worried about his degrading memory as much as he should. It's almost like theres a restraint on him, watching as he tiptoes around rebellion. ]

at the mention of showing the writing however they smiled.)

[ He puts down his burger and picks up a fry to eat. Glancing at your meal, then at you, he asks with a slight chuckle. ]

going quiet for a moment then, they eventually stopped to respond again.)

(they chuckled, returning to the food for a moment. at the same time they cast eyes down to the dog - they had always been a lover of all animals.)

(Death laughed a little too, going quiet again though after as they listened to Frank. a small nod, thinking that over.)

[ He chuckled self-depreciatively, finishing his burger and wiping his hands anywhere that isn't a napkin. Again, he offers a fry to Soup, though he holds it up unlike last time. ]

(they laughed at they said that though, briefly returning to finish their own meal before relaxing back against the seat again.)

(they smiled a little sadly, but didn't linger on the negatives for too long.)

[ He would nod, crossing his arms. Reconditioning was nonetheless a tough subject for him. What happened to him in the MOAT is a conversation only between him, God, and the Dictator.. ]

she certainly does! I'm very proud that she's managed to get this far. truly, it's wonderful.

[ Soup moves to lay on the cushion, a quiet sign that they've been there for a while. With her snoot on his lap, he starts to pet her idly while speaking. ]

(a gentle smile, before they nodded and sat up again. they were ready to go back whenever, though it had been nice to get out anyway.)

(Death smiles in thanks as they walk out from the door, turning back briefly to watch it Frank was following.)

[ Soup is a relatively behaved dog; which is why he's surprised when she strays from her usual path to sniff a stranger. He tries to softly usher her back, before giving in and getting led by her leash. His eyes lift up to a familiar face. That explains it. ]

..Ah, Death. It's been a while, hey.

— @all-th3-angels

(it certainly had been a while, and Death hadn't been expecting to see Frank much really at all until the next set of shows started. . . but it was more than pleasant to see him in any case.

by the time Frank had spoken up, they had already leant down a little to scratch Soup behind the ears, before straightening and giving the man a wide smile.

despite everything, they could still manage to be cheery enough.)

[ Frank gave a smile, less tense now that he knows that he didn't just interrupt a stranger's walk. He steps closer, causing Soup to sit down and wag her tail. Idly petting her head, he replies. ]

this was significantly less genuine than it had been beforehand, though.)

I am managing as well as I can, the break is nice. it's good without all the pressure. . . Mikey is doing alright too. Ray is - he was taken away.

[ Frank's hand would still, blinking slowly as the words came to his ears. He was taken away. That's.. definitely not good to hear. Soup lifts her head up to press her nuzzle against the curve of his palm, a whine at the stopped movement. He hums with a slight frown, rubbing his thumb against her nose. After swallowing down an irrational choice of words, he replies. ]

he's been taken to a mental hospital, I believe. that's what they said before they sedated me, anyway. I don't - I haven't heard anything since.

it's - yes, I know. . . thank you. I don't - I don't want you to get mixed up in that entire situation, in case anything happens to you. I don't think they'll bother with you as much if you keep away from me but-

[ Frank would offer with the tilt of his head, in the direction of a cheap fast food place nearby. It was close to lunch hours, ..and he could use a meal by now. ]

(that was certainly true, with all the things happening recently it had been so difficult for them to find a moment to actually properly relax.)

[ Frank slowly turns on his heel, making sure you're following him and he doesn't look like a complete idiot. As soon as he starts moving, Soup weaves through his legs, somehow between his legs with every step he makes. Frank manages to untangle her from his legs before crossing the sidewalk, fixing the leash from around his fingers while doing so. ]

Uh.. How's Illi treating you? Sorry I haven't been able to, like.. babysit, recently.

but it seemed that wasn't the case here. they walked in after him.)

[ Frank would nod, closing the hardcover and sliding it to the side to clasp his hands. He puts his elbows on the table, slightly awkward after not having talked in a long while. ]

(they sigh a little, but don't dwell on that for too long. a moment later and there's a smile on their face again, albeit a tiny bit more enthusiastic than was genuine. there was some realness to it though. . .)

[ Frank would hum in reply. He remembers specifically requesting that.. Couldn't go a day without visiting his dogs once. They're like his children, to him. He continues speaking, a hand on top of Soup's head. ]

(their smile became more genuine for a moment, thinking of any possibility of something normal was enough to make them happier.)

well. . . ah. the usual kind of stuff. the Dictator still makes a point to torture us whenever he can, though he seems to be aiming it at me and my family more than anyone else. . .

[ He replies, watching as the waiter comes with the food, placing the trays on the table. Frank sneaks Soup a fry before lifting his burger bun to put ketchup. ]

(they shrugged, turning attention briefly to their food before glancing back over at Frank as he continued to speak.)

Uh.. I miss when we were playing for fun, y'know? Before this..

[ A sigh interrupts his thoughts and its further distracted by a bite. He's hungry. Can't wait any longer. ]

hm, yes. I performed with Maya on her tour - and I sing a little to myself sometimes.

(they smile, thinking for a moment before coming back to reality. the smile remains but they continue to eat before leaning back.)

[ Frank chuckled, pausing to put a fry in his mouth. Food was cheap here, and it was decently good. ]

(they don't seem offended at all though, they only laugh a little. it wasn't like they'd played in front of anyone else recently anyway.)

[ He shrugged, not as worried about his degrading memory as much as he should. It's almost like theres a restraint on him, watching as he tiptoes around rebellion. ]

at the mention of showing the writing however they smiled.)

[ He puts down his burger and picks up a fry to eat. Glancing at your meal, then at you, he asks with a slight chuckle. ]

going quiet for a moment then, they eventually stopped to respond again.)

(they chuckled, returning to the food for a moment. at the same time they cast eyes down to the dog - they had always been a lover of all animals.)

(Death laughed a little too, going quiet again though after as they listened to Frank. a small nod, thinking that over.)

[ He chuckled self-depreciatively, finishing his burger and wiping his hands anywhere that isn't a napkin. Again, he offers a fry to Soup, though he holds it up unlike last time. ]

(they laughed at they said that though, briefly returning to finish their own meal before relaxing back against the seat again.)

(they smiled a little sadly, but didn't linger on the negatives for too long.)

[ He would nod, crossing his arms. Reconditioning was nonetheless a tough subject for him. What happened to him in the MOAT is a conversation only between him, God, and the Dictator.. ]

she certainly does! I'm very proud that she's managed to get this far. truly, it's wonderful.

[ Soup moves to lay on the cushion, a quiet sign that they've been there for a while. With her snoot on his lap, he starts to pet her idly while speaking. ]

(a gentle smile, before they nodded and sat up again. they were ready to go back whenever, though it had been nice to get out anyway.)

(Death smiles in thanks as they walk out from the door, turning back briefly to watch it Frank was following.)