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Confused, but here

@fallen-dominoes

197 posts

fallen-dominoes

Jul 26

Hello! I'm uh, not quite sure what I am, but I'm here in this town and trying to make it work. Even if it is. . . a tad lonely at times.

You're used to ignoring the stares, you can do this.

Sometimes it feels like everyone's out to get me, but I'm. . . I swear I'm not one of them.

That's what I keep telling myself anyway, but I'm not entirely sure anymore. It feels like the line gets thinner every day.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

(OOC: Hello! I'm Kitty (or K. Inferne for anon asks), and this is an rp blog based around the Fall Guy, who is my favorite Dupery role thus far. The blog's name is a reference to the icon for the Setup quirk, which is also amongst my favorite quirks.

Fall Guy uses He/Him pronouns, and is somewhere in his early thirties.

Tags:

#the fallen - roleplaying

#another domino is placed - ic asks/starting posts

#breaking the cuffs - any ooc posts/asks/reblogs

I also run a Copycat blog at @satisfaction-brings-me-back)

#intro post #dupery game #dupery #the fallen #another domino is placed #breaking the cuffs

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fallen-dominoes

15h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

No no- If anything you'd still need one after your outburst of tears-- I'm relatively okay, just.. I feel bad for you.

fallen-dominoes

Well, we. . . we can't change what's already happened, I fear. I feel bad about it too, because you were right, I probably. . . should have done something sooner.

But that's . . . fine. Well, maybe not fine fine. But fine. . . adjacent. That.

Yeah... No changing the past... But ignoring the past means neglecting the present. We have to try to get you out of this! I could try to approach someone who has connection to Underlings? Maybe? But- God...

fallen-dominoes

Hmm. I'm not entirely sure who you could contact that you wouldn't be putting yourself in danger by contacting.

(His tone of voice here is firm, but clearly comes from a place of caring.)

And if you don't want me putting myself in danger, I cannot in good faith let you willingly put yourself in danger either.

I'm not going out there to harm myself but to get you out of harm! I'll find someone... eventually... Surely there's a Meddler or Innocent that's connected to evils & Underlings out there somewhere...

fallen-dominoes

(He raises his eyebrows.)

Other than me, I assume?

Yeah. I need to know someone else so I can reverse-rumour your way out. Or somethin' like that...

fallen-dominoes

Well. . . I'm uh. Blanking on that then. Sorry. I'm realizing that I don't know a whole lot about the townspeople themselves, just what they think of me.

Which. . . probably isn't helping matters either but oh well.

Yeah- I can.. I'll find someone in my own time. You're fine, you don't need to tell me who could apply...

[ However, something deep down, tells Chatter Box he won't have much of his own time left. ]

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy frowns.)

You sure? I don't want you trying to figure out what to do about all this on your own.

Listen, if I can survive a punch given to the Traitors & live on the run, I could easily do this.

[Despite their usual confidence-bordering-cockiness, this was obviously played up.]

fallen-dominoes

(He is not convinced in the slightest.)

Look, I know, I know. But it just feels wrong. What's . . . what's the word? Guilty. That word. I'd feel guilty if. . .

(He looks very concerned.)

. . . something were to happen to you.

I'm going to be okay. Nothin's gonna happen out there.. and if something does it's my fault anyways!

[Chatter Box brushes it off, but the slight yet unyeilding terror in their irises didn't go unnoticed.]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to say something and then shuts it again.

His hands are in his lap, fingernails digging into his palms.

He's terrified, trying to keep his voice from wavering.)

So- So what's the- the plan then?

I don't really have one... But I'll think up somethin'! Don't fret so much.

[ Empty promises, & empty smiles. For the chattiest, cheeriest, enthusiasm-filled guy, he's quite ██ █████ ██████ ██████ ██████ ███ ██ ███ ██ ████ ████████ ███ ██████ ██████ ]

fallen-dominoes

Al- Alrighty then. I. . . I trust you'll. . . figure something out, but- but that doesn't mean I'm not going to worry.

(His hands are shaking again. His palms ache.

He knows this is not going to be as easy as Chatter Box seems to think it is.

. . . He knows they know that too.)

Just. . . try to stay safe, okay? Can you. . . can you promise me that?

I promise. I'll do everything I can to get you out of this mess, & make it back in one piece.

[ Chatter Box grins, holding out their pinky as a true promise. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He smiles nervously, reaching out a hand to return the gesture.)

Th- Thank you.

Good luck.

(They're going to need it.)

#the fallen #(OOC:#end scene?#< sure!)

fallen-dominoes

15h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

No no- If anything you'd still need one after your outburst of tears-- I'm relatively okay, just.. I feel bad for you.

fallen-dominoes

Well, we. . . we can't change what's already happened, I fear. I feel bad about it too, because you were right, I probably. . . should have done something sooner.

But that's . . . fine. Well, maybe not fine fine. But fine. . . adjacent. That.

Yeah... No changing the past... But ignoring the past means neglecting the present. We have to try to get you out of this! I could try to approach someone who has connection to Underlings? Maybe? But- God...

fallen-dominoes

Hmm. I'm not entirely sure who you could contact that you wouldn't be putting yourself in danger by contacting.

(His tone of voice here is firm, but clearly comes from a place of caring.)

And if you don't want me putting myself in danger, I cannot in good faith let you willingly put yourself in danger either.

I'm not going out there to harm myself but to get you out of harm! I'll find someone... eventually... Surely there's a Meddler or Innocent that's connected to evils & Underlings out there somewhere...

fallen-dominoes

(He raises his eyebrows.)

Other than me, I assume?

Yeah. I need to know someone else so I can reverse-rumour your way out. Or somethin' like that...

fallen-dominoes

Well. . . I'm uh. Blanking on that then. Sorry. I'm realizing that I don't know a whole lot about the townspeople themselves, just what they think of me.

Which. . . probably isn't helping matters either but oh well.

Yeah- I can.. I'll find someone in my own time. You're fine, you don't need to tell me who could apply...

[ However, something deep down, tells Chatter Box he won't have much of his own time left. ]

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy frowns.)

You sure? I don't want you trying to figure out what to do about all this on your own.

Listen, if I can survive a punch given to the Traitors & live on the run, I could easily do this.

[Despite their usual confidence-bordering-cockiness, this was obviously played up.]

fallen-dominoes

(He is not convinced in the slightest.)

Look, I know, I know. But it just feels wrong. What's . . . what's the word? Guilty. That word. I'd feel guilty if. . .

(He looks very concerned.)

. . . something were to happen to you.

I'm going to be okay. Nothin's gonna happen out there.. and if something does it's my fault anyways!

[Chatter Box brushes it off, but the slight yet unyeilding terror in their irises didn't go unnoticed.]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to say something and then shuts it again.

His hands are in his lap, fingernails digging into his palms.

He's terrified, trying to keep his voice from wavering.)

So- So what's the- the plan then?

I don't really have one... But I'll think up somethin'! Don't fret so much.

[ Empty promises, & empty smiles. For the chattiest, cheeriest, enthusiasm-filled guy, he's quite ██ █████ ██████ ██████ ██████ ███ ██ ███ ██ ████ ████████ ███ ██████ ██████ ]

fallen-dominoes

Al- Alrighty then. I. . . I trust you'll. . . figure something out, but- but that doesn't mean I'm not going to worry.

(His hands are shaking again. His palms ache.

He knows this is not going to be as easy as Chatter Box seems to think it is.

. . . He knows they know that too.)

Just. . . try to stay safe, okay? Can you. . . can you promise me that?

fallen-dominoes

16h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

No no- If anything you'd still need one after your outburst of tears-- I'm relatively okay, just.. I feel bad for you.

fallen-dominoes

Well, we. . . we can't change what's already happened, I fear. I feel bad about it too, because you were right, I probably. . . should have done something sooner.

But that's . . . fine. Well, maybe not fine fine. But fine. . . adjacent. That.

Yeah... No changing the past... But ignoring the past means neglecting the present. We have to try to get you out of this! I could try to approach someone who has connection to Underlings? Maybe? But- God...

fallen-dominoes

Hmm. I'm not entirely sure who you could contact that you wouldn't be putting yourself in danger by contacting.

(His tone of voice here is firm, but clearly comes from a place of caring.)

And if you don't want me putting myself in danger, I cannot in good faith let you willingly put yourself in danger either.

I'm not going out there to harm myself but to get you out of harm! I'll find someone... eventually... Surely there's a Meddler or Innocent that's connected to evils & Underlings out there somewhere...

fallen-dominoes

(He raises his eyebrows.)

Other than me, I assume?

Yeah. I need to know someone else so I can reverse-rumour your way out. Or somethin' like that...

fallen-dominoes

Well. . . I'm uh. Blanking on that then. Sorry. I'm realizing that I don't know a whole lot about the townspeople themselves, just what they think of me.

Which. . . probably isn't helping matters either but oh well.

Yeah- I can.. I'll find someone in my own time. You're fine, you don't need to tell me who could apply...

[ However, something deep down, tells Chatter Box he won't have much of his own time left. ]

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy frowns.)

You sure? I don't want you trying to figure out what to do about all this on your own.

Listen, if I can survive a punch given to the Traitors & live on the run, I could easily do this.

[Despite their usual confidence-bordering-cockiness, this was obviously played up.]

fallen-dominoes

(He is not convinced in the slightest.)

Look, I know, I know. But it just feels wrong. What's . . . what's the word? Guilty. That word. I'd feel guilty if. . .

(He looks very concerned.)

. . . something were to happen to you.

I'm going to be okay. Nothin's gonna happen out there.. and if something does it's my fault anyways!

[Chatter Box brushes it off, but the slight yet unyeilding terror in their irises didn't go unnoticed.]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to say something and then shuts it again.

His hands are in his lap, fingernails digging into his palms.

He's terrified, trying to keep his voice from wavering.)

So- So what's the- the plan then?

#the fallen #(OOC: chatter box he's so scared you're going to get hurt-)

fallen-dominoes

16h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

No no- If anything you'd still need one after your outburst of tears-- I'm relatively okay, just.. I feel bad for you.

fallen-dominoes

Well, we. . . we can't change what's already happened, I fear. I feel bad about it too, because you were right, I probably. . . should have done something sooner.

But that's . . . fine. Well, maybe not fine fine. But fine. . . adjacent. That.

Yeah... No changing the past... But ignoring the past means neglecting the present. We have to try to get you out of this! I could try to approach someone who has connection to Underlings? Maybe? But- God...

fallen-dominoes

Hmm. I'm not entirely sure who you could contact that you wouldn't be putting yourself in danger by contacting.

(His tone of voice here is firm, but clearly comes from a place of caring.)

And if you don't want me putting myself in danger, I cannot in good faith let you willingly put yourself in danger either.

I'm not going out there to harm myself but to get you out of harm! I'll find someone... eventually... Surely there's a Meddler or Innocent that's connected to evils & Underlings out there somewhere...

fallen-dominoes

(He raises his eyebrows.)

Other than me, I assume?

Yeah. I need to know someone else so I can reverse-rumour your way out. Or somethin' like that...

fallen-dominoes

Well. . . I'm uh. Blanking on that then. Sorry. I'm realizing that I don't know a whole lot about the townspeople themselves, just what they think of me.

Which. . . probably isn't helping matters either but oh well.

Yeah- I can.. I'll find someone in my own time. You're fine, you don't need to tell me who could apply...

[ However, something deep down, tells Chatter Box he won't have much of his own time left. ]

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy frowns.)

You sure? I don't want you trying to figure out what to do about all this on your own.

Listen, if I can survive a punch given to the Traitors & live on the run, I could easily do this.

[Despite their usual confidence-bordering-cockiness, this was obviously played up.]

fallen-dominoes

(He is not convinced in the slightest.)

Look, I know, I know. But it just feels wrong. What's . . . what's the word? Guilty. That word. I'd feel guilty if. . .

(He looks very concerned.)

. . . something were to happen to you.

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fallen-dominoes

16h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

No no- If anything you'd still need one after your outburst of tears-- I'm relatively okay, just.. I feel bad for you.

fallen-dominoes

Well, we. . . we can't change what's already happened, I fear. I feel bad about it too, because you were right, I probably. . . should have done something sooner.

But that's . . . fine. Well, maybe not fine fine. But fine. . . adjacent. That.

Yeah... No changing the past... But ignoring the past means neglecting the present. We have to try to get you out of this! I could try to approach someone who has connection to Underlings? Maybe? But- God...

fallen-dominoes

Hmm. I'm not entirely sure who you could contact that you wouldn't be putting yourself in danger by contacting.

(His tone of voice here is firm, but clearly comes from a place of caring.)

And if you don't want me putting myself in danger, I cannot in good faith let you willingly put yourself in danger either.

I'm not going out there to harm myself but to get you out of harm! I'll find someone... eventually... Surely there's a Meddler or Innocent that's connected to evils & Underlings out there somewhere...

fallen-dominoes

(He raises his eyebrows.)

Other than me, I assume?

Yeah. I need to know someone else so I can reverse-rumour your way out. Or somethin' like that...

fallen-dominoes

Well. . . I'm uh. Blanking on that then. Sorry. I'm realizing that I don't know a whole lot about the townspeople themselves, just what they think of me.

Which. . . probably isn't helping matters either but oh well.

Yeah- I can.. I'll find someone in my own time. You're fine, you don't need to tell me who could apply...

[ However, something deep down, tells Chatter Box he won't have much of his own time left. ]

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy frowns.)

You sure? I don't want you trying to figure out what to do about all this on your own.

fallen-dominoes

17h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

No no- If anything you'd still need one after your outburst of tears-- I'm relatively okay, just.. I feel bad for you.

fallen-dominoes

Well, we. . . we can't change what's already happened, I fear. I feel bad about it too, because you were right, I probably. . . should have done something sooner.

But that's . . . fine. Well, maybe not fine fine. But fine. . . adjacent. That.

Yeah... No changing the past... But ignoring the past means neglecting the present. We have to try to get you out of this! I could try to approach someone who has connection to Underlings? Maybe? But- God...

fallen-dominoes

Hmm. I'm not entirely sure who you could contact that you wouldn't be putting yourself in danger by contacting.

(His tone of voice here is firm, but clearly comes from a place of caring.)

And if you don't want me putting myself in danger, I cannot in good faith let you willingly put yourself in danger either.

I'm not going out there to harm myself but to get you out of harm! I'll find someone... eventually... Surely there's a Meddler or Innocent that's connected to evils & Underlings out there somewhere...

fallen-dominoes

(He raises his eyebrows.)

Other than me, I assume?

Yeah. I need to know someone else so I can reverse-rumour your way out. Or somethin' like that...

fallen-dominoes

Well. . . I'm uh. Blanking on that then. Sorry. I'm realizing that I don't know a whole lot about the townspeople themselves, just what they think of me.

Which. . . probably isn't helping matters either but oh well.

fallen-dominoes

17h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

No no- If anything you'd still need one after your outburst of tears-- I'm relatively okay, just.. I feel bad for you.

fallen-dominoes

Well, we. . . we can't change what's already happened, I fear. I feel bad about it too, because you were right, I probably. . . should have done something sooner.

But that's . . . fine. Well, maybe not fine fine. But fine. . . adjacent. That.

Yeah... No changing the past... But ignoring the past means neglecting the present. We have to try to get you out of this! I could try to approach someone who has connection to Underlings? Maybe? But- God...

fallen-dominoes

Hmm. I'm not entirely sure who you could contact that you wouldn't be putting yourself in danger by contacting.

(His tone of voice here is firm, but clearly comes from a place of caring.)

And if you don't want me putting myself in danger, I cannot in good faith let you willingly put yourself in danger either.

I'm not going out there to harm myself but to get you out of harm! I'll find someone... eventually... Surely there's a Meddler or Innocent that's connected to evils & Underlings out there somewhere...

fallen-dominoes

(He raises his eyebrows.)

Other than me, I assume?

fallen-dominoes

17h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

No no- If anything you'd still need one after your outburst of tears-- I'm relatively okay, just.. I feel bad for you.

fallen-dominoes

Well, we. . . we can't change what's already happened, I fear. I feel bad about it too, because you were right, I probably. . . should have done something sooner.

But that's . . . fine. Well, maybe not fine fine. But fine. . . adjacent. That.

Yeah... No changing the past... But ignoring the past means neglecting the present. We have to try to get you out of this! I could try to approach someone who has connection to Underlings? Maybe? But- God...

fallen-dominoes

Hmm. I'm not entirely sure who you could contact that you wouldn't be putting yourself in danger by contacting.

(His tone of voice here is firm, but clearly comes from a place of caring.)

And if you don't want me putting myself in danger, I cannot in good faith let you willingly put yourself in danger either.

fallen-dominoes

18h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

No no- If anything you'd still need one after your outburst of tears-- I'm relatively okay, just.. I feel bad for you.

fallen-dominoes

Well, we. . . we can't change what's already happened, I fear. I feel bad about it too, because you were right, I probably. . . should have done something sooner.

But that's . . . fine. Well, maybe not fine fine. But fine. . . adjacent. That.

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fallen-dominoes

18h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

I'm just.. Upset you've had to be alone for so long- I wish I'd not only moved here sooner but approached you myself...

[ Chatter looks a bit worse with every word they say. They probably would've been ignored of they apporached first. Fall Guy's scared of talking to people after all, & they've already been rudely notified of how many don't like to hear his voice.. But that's natural for a talker, right? ]

fallen-dominoes

Look, it's- it's fine. You're here now.

(Fall Guy stares at Chatter Box for a bit.)

Do. . . do you need a hug? You. . . kinda look like you could. . . use one.

fallen-dominoes

18h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

[ Chatter Box can't help but think on the wrong implications a little bit.. Nothing about them specifically, just... someone to talk to. That's.. Just what Chatter is. The one who talks. Talks too much for their own good. Is that all there is to them? He tries not to think about it aftwerwards; Going snapping back to reality to comfort Fall Guy. ]

Well.... You've probably heard, I am always up for a chat... You can talk to me anytime, and you're right, I won't say no.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy noticeably slumps down a bit.)

I. . . I know.

(A moment of awkward silence.)

Did- Did I say something wrong? You looked. . . upset. . . for a moment.

#the fallen #(OOC:#That. Makes me so fucking sad #What... thats so sad.... 🙁#< it makes me sad too :( )

fallen-dominoes

19h

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

[ Chatter Box looks.. uspet. Confused, even. He doesn't look Fall Guy in the eyes for a hot minute, before finally saying something. ]

Then.... Why did you approach me?

fallen-dominoes

Because I. . . I just wanted to talk to someone, and, god please, please don't take this the wrong way, but I . . .

(He looks down at his hands again and sighs.)

I thought you would be the least likely to say no.

fallen-dominoes

Aug 2

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

What? There's no way that's true! You're- you're welcome but I don't get how could someone survive without real friends for a while? I couldn't even go two months!...

How long have you been in this town..? Have the rumours... always been like this since you moved here...?

fallen-dominoes

I've . . . I've been here for years, I think. Never exactly been a people person. Talking to people scares me.

(He chuckles.)

But there's always been. . . some flavor of rumors going around, because of that. They just got. . . worse . . . over time.

I guess I . . . just got used to being alone.

fallen-dominoes

Aug 2

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

He used that against you...?! I'm going to make sure no one ever appreciates him ever again. You're- You're more than the rumours spread around aboutcha make you out to be. Keep that in mind.

fallen-dominoes

I- I know. It's just. . . difficult sometimes. You're. . . the closest thing to a real friend I've had in. . .

(He starts counting on his fingers, frowns, and then quickly stops.)

A while, so I'm still. . . figuring that out.

(He pauses.)

Thanks by the way. For- For that.

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fallen-dominoes

Aug 2

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

He said you'd be better off in the Syndicate, yes?

…Then how did he? He doesn't lie. That's his entire shtick. Yet, he still said somethin' that was wrong. How? What'd he even say?

fallen-dominoes

I'm. . . trying to remember.

I think we were talking about appreciation, or. . . lack thereof, I suppose, in this case.

fallen-dominoes

Aug 2

fallen-dominoes

[ Chatter Box is starting to worry. He hasn't heard from Fall Guy in a while, so they decide to check up on him. ]

This... should be the place....

[Knock, Knock … knock. ]

— [ @ch4tterbox ]

Hmm. . ?

(He is surprised by the knocking. It. . . probably isn't her, since he already gave her what she was looking for. Which leaves him unsure as to who else it could be.

He opens the door.)

Hel-

(He freezes upon seeing Chatter Box.)

oh.

Hey uh.... I've not been seeing you out and about much... You doing alright? …do you mind if I come inside?

[ Chatter doesn't exactly look nervous, but a little worried. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He quickly shakes his head as he wordlessly opens the door the rest of the way and invites them inside.

He is trembling slightly, but is trying to keep that from showing.)

So uh... How have things been holding up...? Any news about what's up with.. #8 & all of that...? Seen anyone interesting...?

[ Chatter is uncharacteristically careful, noticiing that Fall Guy hasn't said a word to him. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He opens his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out of it.

Instead he sits down, and gestures to a nearby chair with a sad smile on his face.)

[ Chatter Box sits down, looking more worried by the second. ]

Are you doing alright? You look... kind of tense.... Well, no- not in a "you look bad" kind of way- b-but-... just your body language seems... Scared.

fallen-dominoes

(He stares at his hands, which he has started fidgeting with in his lap, before looking up at Chatter Box and shaking his head. He is definitely. . . not alright.)

Please- what's going on?! Can you say something to me-? Has-....

[ Chatter's face slowly goes almost absolutely blank. ]

Have Syndicate come by....?

fallen-dominoes

N- No.

(It takes a tremendous amount of effort, but he can get that out at least.

He's still shaking. Pretty visibly so.)

What's.... Hey, I can give you a minute to calm down so you can explain- would that help you? Do y-...well, this is your house... but I could try to make something if you want anything... If that's okay with you.

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, making a gesture that he hoped roughly communicated "have at it".

There are tears starting to well up in his eyes. He is putting most of his energy into keeping himself from just sobbing.)

Sorry, um— what do you mean...? Do you need anything specifically...?

[ Chatter Box looks back at Fall Guy, seeing tears threatening to fall. ]

... Do you need a hug?

fallen-dominoes

(He nods, sniffling.)

P- Please.

[ Chatter walks up to Fall Guy, wrapping their arms around him, & holding him tightly. ]

You can tell me later.. I want to make sure you're not going to like.. die on the spot or anything...

fallen-dominoes

(The dam breaks. Tears start pouring down Fall Guy's face as he struggles to wrap his arms around Chatter Box in an attempt to return the hug.)

Hey hey hey.... It's alright. No one's out to get you, no one's going to try to hurt you, no one's gonna be mad at you... It's going to be okay, Fall.

fallen-dominoes

(He continues to cry for at least another two minutes or so, before the tears finally start to slow down. He doesn't let go.)

Th- Thank you.

You're welcome... are you able to explain now...? Or do you still need a minute?

fallen-dominoes

I. . . I don't. . . know.

(Fall Guy is still trembling.)

Just. . . just stay. Please.

[ Chatter Box nods, holding Fall Guy tighter. ]

You'll be okay, alright? I'll stay with you as long as you need.

fallen-dominoes

I'll. . . be okay. . .

(He is mostly repeating it to convince himself.)

I'll. . . I'll be okay.

(He is quiet for a moment.)

Is that. . . true?

With me around, it always will be. You can tell me whatever you need to.

fallen-dominoes

(He tenses up.)

You. . . you sure? I. . . There's. . . there's a reason I-

(He doesn't finish the sentence.)

I promise. I may have gotten mad-...really mad.. at you before, but I promise I won't ever again... but some things may push me to that- but I'll never hate you!

fallen-dominoes

Well then. . . I-

(His breathing is shaky. He is trembling worse than ever before.)

I . . . I fucked up. I fucked up so bad. They- They got me.

(He starts speaking very quickly out of panic.)

I was the one trying to warn you to be careful of them and to not fall for their tricks and I was the one they got with them!

(He's about to start crying again.)

That's. . . that's why I've been. . . avoiding you. Because I- I knew you'd. . . you'd be-

(He can't bring himself to say it.)

Wh-... What did they do exactly to get you-- with them?! I thought it was an extensive process--...

[ They go quiet for a second, face turning into one of anger. ]

Who did it. That's my real question.

fallen-dominoes

(Fall Guy sniffles.)

They. . . they think I'm already. . . one of them, remember?

But- But I don't. . . I don't remember his name. I don't remember if it ever came up. The. . . the one who doesn't lie.

He. . . he sought me out, and . . . and we started talking. . . and. . . and. . .

(He takes a very deep breath.)

He. . . He had me convinced. Convinced that everything would be better if I just stopped caring. Why try to fight to be accepted by everyone else when I would be happily welcomed by the Syndicate with open arms?

(He stares at the ground, completely and utterly ashamed with himself.)

I shouldn't have listened. I. . . I know that now. . . but. . .

Oh thank goodness you're not actually with them at least not yet-- but-... the one who doesn't lie.. Don't all Underlings lie or something? …No, there's one who doesn't- that being Conman... H-HOLD ON WHAT?! Oh god please don't say you accepted ANYTHING FROM THAT MAN!

If you join them- you'll prove the town right. Something's wrong with the Syndicate. No one ever leaves. I doubt a crime group is welcoming, Fall- Please- Don't listen to him!

I- If you join... You'll lose your shot to be with us Meddlers, and us Meddlers have to stick together! It- I-... You'll... lose your shot for anyone to trust you again. I know I'm younger than you, but you're only in your 30's. You still have so much life left- I can't let you dedicate it to a weird agency that probably won't care for you at all!

fallen-dominoes

He. . . He told me that. . . as truthful evils. . . we- we had to stick together. But I don't. . . I don't. . . want that.

(Fall Guy wipes his face with his sleeve.)

The. . . the Meddlers. Right. That's . . . that's where I- That's where I belong. I. . . I don't. . .

(He starts crying again.)

You're not evil, Fall Guy...

[ Chatter Box pulls Fall Guy into another hug. ]

And... If I ever find Conman, I'll make sure him, nor any Syndicate try to seek you out again....I'll... try my best.

fallen-dominoes

Th- Thank you. I'm. . . I don't know how much you can. . . do about . . . them.

(He sniffles again.)

But. . . I'm just. . . just glad you're not. . . mad.

(Fall Guy chuckles nervously.)

Or uh. . . mad at me, anyway.

It's not your fault that fucker told you the "right" words at the right time for him to force you into all of this! There's not a reason for me to get mad at you!

Him on the other hand..

fallen-dominoes

Yeah, I'm. . . I'm not happy with him either. . .

(He remembers something.)

. . . Shit.

What...'s wrong....? Are you okay?.. Well- Why aren't you okay?

[ Chatter keeps his hands on him, but pulls away a little. ]

fallen-dominoes

(He sighs.)

You- I think you asked about it earlier, but I was still terrified at the time and. . . forgot to mention it.

The- The house at #8.

What... happened there...? Did they try to hurt you?!

[Chatter Box shakes Fall Guy a little bit, pretty panicked.]

fallen-dominoes

Nonono- They were. . . fine. It's just that it happened after . . .

(He coughs)

That.

So I uh. . . acted appropriately, let's say. I think he realized something was wrong, but I. . . I still went through with it.

I... Have you told any of this to R...? About #8, not... this...

[Chatter sits back down adjacent to Fall Guy & creates a circular morion with his hand, gesturing to him.]

But...If you don't tell her... who knows. We don't know what the Traitors are capable of... It's wrong, yes, but- you may have to.

fallen-dominoes

That's. . . that's the thing-

I've already told her. You could. . . probably guess what I told her even.

(He sighs.)

…Oh god… You're not in any immediate danger though...! That's good at least...?

... I want you to be safe.

fallen-dominoes

(He is quiet for a moment.)

I- I should be safe for now, yes. I. . . haven't heard anything from her or . . . the others since.

That's- that's good... maybe the man at house #8 won't even get into the Syndicate... You're gonna be okay.

I hope... Wait, you kind of brushed over something- the man that never lies... How did he convince you of something so false..?

fallen-dominoes

H- Huh?

(He is caught off guard by the question.)

I. . . What?

Confused, but here @fallen-dominoes - Tumblr Blog | Tumlook