#brutus writez

August

✦ ── Chaos. Chaos. Chaos! Chibi August is just as fucking obsessed with you as actual August, and he isn't afraid of demanding your attention when he wants it!

✦ ── All over you, always! Likes to mend and fix the smallest of details in your clothes; that way he has an excuse to be on you 24/7. Not that he needs one; he is shameless in his adoration of you.

✦ ── The largest vocabulary out of any chibi and also the loudest! His volume is so intense people still flinch whether it is actual or chibi August talking!

✦ ── Whenever August is having you try on clothes, chibi August will stay on his shoulder and cheer along. It only encourages August to be louder, which has made your little fashion shows way crazier.

✦ ── They get along really well, except sometimes chibi August will act like actual August is being 'too much.' Like 'get a load of this guy,' pointing over his shoulder with a grin when August isn't watching.

"BABE!!!" Shouting from your shoulder, your head flinched away before turning to him, patting his head with a finger.

"What's up, August?"

"HUH? ARE YOU TALKING TO ME?" Turning in his chair to face you, actual August had the same beaming smile as his mini self.

"Little August, actually. Sorry."

"PRETTY!!!" Chibi August pointed at you, looking at his larger counterpart expectantly.

"I KNOW! I'M TOTES IN LOVE!"

Eishia

✦ ── Somehow chibi Eishia is even more timid and shy than the real deal! It seems like anything will get her flustered or trying to hide away from attention; it's so cute!

✦ ── The only thing she's ever said is your name, which is extremely endearing. Still, you and Eishia are doing your best to teach her some new words. Right now the only other thing she's said is 'sorry.'

✦ ── Literally hides from anyone other than you and Eishia. Anytime someone else tries to speak to her, she freezes up or hides, and it spooks her enough that she might even cry.

✦ ── Her little instrument is just the cutest, and it can actually heal minor injuries like paper cuts without much trouble! Anytime you get a little hurt, she jumps right into healing you.

✦ ── Eishia and her mini self get along very well. Chibi Eishia likes to help her clean up surfaces in the medical area or organize patient files when possible.

"S/o..." The tiny voice spoke up from the desk you and Eishia were sharing, organizing through old medical reports for the new system you'd both set up.

"What's wrong, missy Eishia?" You tilted your head, and she pointed a little hand to where you got a cut from one of the papers.

"Oh! You want to help? Please, it does sting a bit." The rosy dust to her cheeks was so adorable you could have cried, looking to your partner Eishia with a pout.

"You're both so cute!"

Enjin

✦ ── Without any words to ruin the moment, chibi Enjin is such a sweetheart! He follows you around (a few feet behind to not seem clingy and having to run every few minutes to catch up) everywhere.

✦ ── A little hype man. If Enjin isn't around to give you sweetness, chibi Enjin will clap and cheer at any outfit you show off to him. He gets flustered very easily when he sees an outfit he really likes, too.

✦ ── Will fight any threat no matter how big or small. His little Umbreaker may be the size of a cocktail umbrella pick, but when in use it can still hurt like a bitch. A few people have a scar from being rude to you when he was around.

✦ ── Climbs up to really high spots in whatever room you're in so he can glide down to you or a surface with his Umbreaker. Otherwise, he mostly uses it to hook onto your clothes or hit Enjin.

✦ ── Chibi Enjin and actual Enjin are always fighting for your attention. They agree on everything except sharing you, though they have no choice but to put up with one another's company for your sake.

"Hey, I was here first, you little brat." Enjin prodded the smaller version of him that was clinging to your hand, trying to tug you away from Enjin.

"Baby." Chibi Enjin pointed at the seething man with a grin, pleased when you started following him.

"Uh, hello? Why are you following him?!" Enjin stepped in the way of his smaller self, arms crossed.

"He's being polite." You held back a laugh, using your free hand to hide your smile.

"You only think he's nice because he can't say shit."

"Asshole!" The chibi Enjin's shouting only proved his point.

Follo

✦ ── Having a chibi Follo is like having a sweet little helper around all day long. He wants to prove he can help you just as much as actual Follo!

✦ ── He'll drag pencils to you when you need them, help fix strands of hair in your face, and give small cheers when you finish projects! One of his favourite words to use is 'wow!'

✦ ── Shy of being seen by others, but he always wants to stick with you. He prefers to hide in one of your pockets or under loose clothing. HATES when anyone but you or Follo picks him up—except maybe Gris or Tomme.

✦ ── Uses his mini hammer to try and climb your clothes, but he feels really bad when it pokes holes in the fabric. Now he's learning to get Follo to put him where he wants to be.

✦ ── Follo finds chibi him really damn cute. They're nice to each other, and watching them interact is always adorable. Sometimes you catch Follo telling chibi Follo how much he loves you and chibi Follo just keeps chanting 's/o!'

"When I slept in this morning, they brought me breakfast from the dining hall. Isn't that so sweet?" Follo was sitting at his desk with his head resting on his arms.

"S/o!" Chibi Follo was sitting on the desk in front of him, pumping his fist into the air with a determined expression.

"Yeah, they're amazing."

"This is so freaking cute!" Your voice startled both of them. Follo hid his face in his arms while chibi Follo dived behind a mug on the desk.

Gris

✦ ── Having two Gris is almost too much in a nice, sweet kind of way. Chibi Gris is just as caring to you as the real deal, which means you're constantly doted on.

✦ ── Stays sat on your shoulder all day. It's where he can watch what's going on around you and make sure others know not to act up. Probably one of the more vocal chibis, always saying, 'Nice!' 'Good job!' 'Keep it up!'

✦ ── Acts like he isn't small a lot. He looks up at the people from the floor as if he's big and intimidating, opens doors for you, and tugs you along by your finger as if he's casually holding your hand and taking a stroll.

✦ ── Surprisingly strong for how small he is! He can lift your entire arm all on his own and open doors without much issue! Thank goodness he never gets into trouble; otherwise, he'd be getting into things he shouldn't.

✦ ── Gris and he are kindred souls. They relax together and talk about events of the day (or, Gris does and Chibi Gris nods along) as if it were normal to talk to yourself like that.

"S/o!" His hand tugs at your shirt, trying to rouse you from your sleep.

"C'mon darling, time to wake up. Mini me is getting worried about your sleeping habits." Gris spoke as if he knew everything chibi Gris was thinking. And he got it right every time!

When you finally let your eyes open to look at the two of them, chibi Gris gave a thumbs up.

"Good job!"

Jabber

✦ ── Chibi Jabber is just as much of a trouble maker as your actual boyfriend. The worst part is that they get along and team up against you!

✦ ── Jabber likes to give 'lil Jab' (his idea, not yours) bottlecaps of things he has on his own claws so that lil Jab can "protect you from creepy crawlies n stuff!" But they both end up using it on themselves more than enemies (or bugs).

✦ ── This is a first-come, first-serve house, though, and Jabber has first dibs on you! if lil Jab is getting too much attention from you, he's going to do everything he can to get more attention from you. It becomes a competition.

✦ ── Chibi Jabber likes to be sat high up on your head when he isn't bouncing around trying to find insects to fight away from you! Being so high up gives him vertigo, and he likes the dizzy feeling.

✦ ── Doesn't use his instrument on you much, if ever. When he does, it's usually an accident. Even then he gets really sulky about hurting you. His little dosages don't affect you (much).

"Mankira!" There was a moth fluttering around where he stood in your hands, and he did his best to jump after it.

Only after attacking it thoroughly and falling down to your palms with an excited battle cry, his claws cut through your skin.

"Ow!" Your yelp startled lil Jab, who immediately desummoned his jinki. His little body collapsed over the wound, hugging your palm as best as he could.

"Huh? What'd ya do lil guy?" Interested, Jabber plucked his mini self up to take a look. Four paper-cut-like wounds were left on your palm. He snorted, gently shaking lil Jab.

"Feels good?" You took that as chibi Jabber attempting to ask if you were okay with what little vocabulary he had.

"I'll survive, don't worry!"

Rudo

✦ ── Tiny, rage-filled, and adorable chibi Rudo is such a gift. They're both extremely alike, though chibi Rudo is a bit more shy than actual Rudo (or maybe more obvious about it?)

✦ ── Will start shit with anyone no matter how tiny he is. He climbs them like actual Rudo-scaled trash beasts, and his gloves make him an actual menace that can cause damage.

✦ ── So you have to keep him close and clasp him in your hands whenever you're out of your room with him, just to be safe. If someone is really annoying you, then maybe you'll free him just so they leave you alone.

✦ ── Chibi Rudo only seems to get tired or gentle with you. He likes to sleep on or against you whenever he can and is always finding things you thought you lost to bring back as 'gifts.'

✦ ── Rudo acts like he dislikes the little guy, and they play fight a lot, but really they don't mind sharing. So long as they both get to cuddle up with you at the end of the night, then who cares? It's just a higher Rudo-to-you ratio.

Chibi Rudo was clinging to your pointer finger, hiding his face into the comforting warmth with his bandaged hands.

"Okay, all done washing them. They just need to dry." Rudo was washing their gloves, though it was exceptionally difficult to wash mini gloves like that.

"It must hurt a lot more than you show." Your free hand brushed the hair of the chibi Rudo, who was visibly shaking. You lifted your arm to Rudo, pulling him into a hug.

"I guess." His voice was muffled into your shirt, though you were certain you'd guessed right by the way his own bandaged arms clung to your waist.

Poor things.

Tamsy

✦ ── The strangest thing about chibi Tamsy is that he's way different from the real one! He always wears his hair down and seems far more sinister.

✦ ── Not towards you, of course! Chibi Tamsy is always on you, often hidden somewhere comfy on you like your hood, shoulder, or a breast pocket. If someone comes near you, he pops out and glares at them!

✦ ── Manipulative little thing, genuinely. Chibi Tamsy knows frowning will make you coddle him, and if he turns his back to you, he gets an apology from you real quick!

✦ ── Tamsy points it out to you, but you don't seem to mind indulging chibi Tamsy's desires. He's just too cute! And the little fucker knows it, too.

✦ ── His little Tokushin is genuinely thread-sized and can't do much to you. Sometimes he ties up your fingers so you're forced to hold him. Usually Tamsy has to help you cut your hand free.

"S/o!" The little bundle hidden between tiny threads and your fingers complained when Tamsy started cutting through his threads. He was careful to avoid your skin.

"Keep getting in the way and I'll cut your hair." Tamsy threatened, voice low in an attempt to scare the little him into complying.

"Be nice to him!" You pouted, though he'd already heard the small laugh escape you.

Tamsy only shook his head, moving his hand back in to cut some more of the threaded mess binding your fingers.

"Tokushin!" Chibi Tamsy made an attempt to summon more threads but had his plans thwarted when Tamsy took his Tokushin from him.

"Tch. Your little threads don't even compare to the real thing."

"Are you seriously competing with him?"

Zanka

✦ ── Oh yeah, they are carbon copies of one another. It's impressive how not even the smallest detail has changed, but it makes sense knowing Zanka.

✦ ── Chibi Zanka prefers to stay in front of you where he can 'clear the path' or 'show you the way,' even if it means you get places really slowly.

✦ ── Trains on whatever surface you're working on, sparring with the air and trying to get stronger. He gets really frustrated whenever you show your strength to him and really happy when you praise him for killing any bugs headed your way.

✦ ── Uses his little Assistaff just to push Zanka away from you. Once you used it as a little hairpin since he was misbehaving with it, and both he and actual Zanka really liked how it looked. Now he misbehaves more so you take it again.

✦ ── Ohh, they fight over you and anything small a lot. Chibi Zanka too clingy to you? He gets lifted and put far away. Actual Zanka being too affectionate with you? Chibi Zanka calls him 'mediocre.'

"S/o." Chibi Zanka was right up in Zanka's face, who was holding your sleeping form in bed.

"Screw off, you greedy shit." Zanka closed his eyes again, opting to ignore the little prods from his miniature staff.

Before he could get back to his oh-so-rudely interrupted nap, he was poked again on the bridge of his nose.

"Mediocre."

"That's it, you motherfucker—"

Zodyl

✦ ── Chibi Zodyl is a lot more affectionate than actual Zodyl, but otherwise they're exactly the same. Though, you have a sneaking suspicion chibi Zodyl's affection is just him acting how actual Zodyl wants to.

✦ ── Doesn't seem to mind whether he is with you or Zodyl, but anyone else is off the table. When with Zodyl, he stares at absolutely nothing. With you, he does the same thing except eventually he nods off because he's too comfy.

✦ ── Oh god, just as bad about eating small critters. You have to keep chibi Zodyl from putting anything living into his mouth, and he genuinely sulks over it for an absurdly long time.

✦ ── Very rarely uses his instrument except to maybe make it easier to get to your shoulder, where he likes to sit. Sometimes copies Zodyl's usage of the jacket in his own attempt to impress you.

✦ ── Zodyl finds chibi Zodyl interesting and prods him occasionally. Usually just results in a side eye or temporary glare. Honestly, he's a very judgemental little thing.

"Lover." Chibi Zodyl called for your attention from his spot on your shoulder, shaking his head at you to show his disapproval.

You were moments from leaving the hideout, hand still on the doorknob.

"No? I'm just going out for a bit to get some fresh air, promise!" Despite your attempt at convincing him, his little glare said you were losing.

"You should listen to him." Zodyl, seemingly appearing from thin air, placed his hand over the one you had on the knob to open the door. "Only go out when I can accompany you. I'm here now."

Chibi Zodyl gave a curt nod, pleased he was being supported.

Great, now you had two of him keeping you in check.

August

✦ ── August gifts you so much stuff it's hard to keep track, though more often than not it's clothes. You find the knitting needles yourself in his workshop, and when you mention wanting to try knitting, he shows you how and encourages you to keep them!

✦ ── He tried knitting, but it required too much patience and was far too easy to fuck up, so they were just gathering dust anyways. Seeing you knit in your little corner of his workshop brings him joy, too!

✦ ── Even when you're off on missions as a supporter, you bring them along to work on your project during the long drives or stops between locations.

✦ ── That's why, when your team is outnumbered and you're moments from being trash beast food, you have them on you. Suddenly the little needles are giant pins that skewer the trash beast like a knife through butter.

✦ ── Oh yeah, that's so fucking badass! Now August is begging to see them in action, even if it's dangerous! He wants to see you put those needles to work, babe!

"DO YOU LOVE THEM MORE THAN ME!?" He was clinging to your waist, wide eyes staring down at you through orange lenses.

Despite his accusation, he had a large grin on his face.

"Of course not, Auggie! I love them so much because you gave them to me!" Your hands were waving frantically, playing along with him.

"I know! Just wanted to hear you say it!" The low chuckle he gave was unlike his usual boisterous laugh; it would have been alarming if it weren't coming from August.

"THIS MEANS I GET TO MAKE YOU A GIVER UNIFORM! WOO!!"

Eishia

✦ ── It was an old tool of hers, a simple stethoscope that was a little worse for wear. She had just gotten a new upgraded one, and she knew you had fun playing with it, so she gifted you her old one!

✦ ── Eishia knows you best, because you're always using it on anyone who lets you (mostly her) or on random surfaces to see what it'd pick up.

✦ ── It becomes pretty commonplace to see you wearing it, which warms her heart. She's glad you put the old thing to good use, even for silly purposes.

✦ ── During one mission you get separated from the rest when a Raider attacks. It's life or death when they rip your stethoscope away from you. It just so happens the chestpiece makes contact with their skin.

✦ ── Suddenly you can hear everything they're thinking and feeling and how their body is reacting. You're able to discern their instrument's weak point from their thoughts and use it to beat them.

"My gift...saved your life?" After you'd been healed from minor injuries, she'd taken the time to listen to what happened.

"Yeah! I was moments from being killed, and then boom! All these thoughts flooded me. So, thank you, Eishia!" Your hands were holding one of hers, keeping it close to your chest.

She was still staring at the stethoscope around your neck.

"I really didn't do anything. It was just a little gift..." Her stammering took over as she lowered her voice. "...but I'm really glad it helped you."

Enjin

✦ ── It was a stupid joke, is what it was. He got you a stopwatch because you were the slowest runner on Akuta and wanted to 'fuel your rage' during your training runs.

✦ ── It worked, albeit a bit too well. You used it all the time and maintained the habit of trying to break your own speed record. He'd always be there to cheer you on and watch as you steadily beat his own speed.

✦ ── One day the two of you go for a run around town, except halfway across the street a car comes barreling towards you and Enjin.

✦ ── One second he's bracing for impact, and the next he's safely on the sidewalk without having moved a muscle. You're clearly out of breath, but your eyes are glowing, and so is the stopwatch.

✦ ── Absolutely baffled at the absurdity of it. People spend their whole life trying to become a giver, and you did it with one gag gift and a shitty driver. Yeah, you're fucking amazing!

"FOR REAL!?" The walk back to HQ is filled with his baffled shouts and your laughing.

"I mean, I guess it makes sense. I've been taking good care of this lil guy." You were looking at the stopwatch again, which seemed to be able to slow down time.

You'd have to test it out some more before you knew exactly what it did.

"Damn, I should start gifting shit to more people. Cleaners could always use more givers." If only it were that easy.

Follo

✦ ── When he and the others head to town to get artificial flowers for Zanka, Follo gets the bright idea to buy you a bouquet for your date later that night.

✦ ── It's full of your favourite flowers, colours, and foliage that support the entire aesthetic. The stems are neatly tied with a ribbon, and they'll never die since they're fake!

✦ ── He's super happy you cherish them, to the point where you always wear at least one of the flowers in your hair or somewhere on your person.

✦ ── One day while the two of you are out on a mission, supporting the combatants, a trash beast gets way too close to trampling Follo.

✦ ── The flower you're wearing comes to life in a blur of panic. Suddenly the trash beast is completely ensnared in reinforced artificial vines until it's crushed to death.

"Your flowers? The ones I gave you?!" The post-fight rush is long over, and suddenly Follo is all over you, making sure you're uninjured.

Ironic, given he was the one in danger.

"Yeah! I guess I loved them a little too much, huh?" Follo was inspecting the flower you twirled between your fingers.

"That's so...so...gah!" He pulled you into his arms, mostly so he could hide the tears welling up in his eyes. Wanting to be a giver was one thing, but knowing he helped you become one was already an honour.

Jabber

✦ ── You were like...an honorary Raider. Being a non-giver, you mostly just helped Jabber with whatever missions he had when possible.

✦ ── Of course you couldn't go on all of them, which meant you were alone a lot. Jabber didn't like that, so he brought you the first weapon he could find: an axe!

✦ ── You, alone, bored, and an axe? Well, you may as well practice with it! And so you hone your skills at fighting with an axe, testing it on makeshift piles of trash and drawn targets.

✦ ── It's when some trafficker finds you alone that you first bother to use it against anyone. He gets the jump on you, but it's only moments before you've chopped the guy's hand off.

✦ ── Except your axe is blazing hot, and it cauterizes immediately. He won't bleed out, so you restrain him for the Raiders to do as they please later.

"Damn! That was totally nasty!" Jabber stuck his tongue out to accentuate his 'disgust' at how you'd pretty much tortured the guy.

"It's not like I knew it'd do that!" You gave an exasperated sigh, still clutching the axe you'd used hours prior.

"You should have known! You're obsessed with me and any gift I give you, right? Of course you'd become a giver!"

"I don't think that's how it works..." You weren't certain he was listening.

"We're a perfect little torture duo, though, don't you think? Non-lethal poison and non-lethal limb detachment." For whatever depraved reason, the thought brought a blush to his cheeks.

Rudo

✦ ── It was just something he'd found in one of the no man's lands, a little trinket he'd repaired and cleaned up because he thought you'd like it: a skateboard.

✦ ── You were always talking about how bored you were at base when you were done with front stuff, so why not give you a hobby to try? And it seemed to work!

✦ ── In fact, it became your main hobby. He would always go for small trips with you to find abandoned buildings, taking the time to build ramps and obstacles with you.

✦ ── When he's away on missions, you like to visit the little ramp parks on your own. Only, this time there's a horde of smaller trash beasts there.

✦ ── Usually your skateboard wouldn't work so well on the uneven soil, making the quickest path out of there, but suddenly your skateboard is levitating, and wheels simply don't matter!

"This isn't a joke, right?" Rudo was side-eyeing the skateboard currently leaning against the wall. He'd just gotten back and was filled in on your encounter.

"Dead serious! Thank you, Rudo!" Your hug caught him off guard, though he eventually managed to offer it right back.

"Huh? Thank me? Why?" His pale face is now a burning crimson.

"I was saved because of your gift, and it's special to me because you fixed it up for me! So, thank you!"

Semiu

✦ ── Since you're always sitting by her desk during your free time, she gifted you a nice Rubik's cube to keep your hands busy and away from messing with her paperwork.

✦ ── Now you're crazy fast with it! You ask other cleaners to scramble it for you, and you can solve it in under thirty seconds. You're distracted, and Semiu gets your company while she works.

✦ ── One day some no-good lowly group decides to try and infiltrate cleaner HQ through the back exit tunnels. Naturally you follow Semiu because you want to see her badass fight!

✦ ── There you are, mindlessly toying with your Rubik's cube, when you overhear one of them call her all sorts of obscenities. No weapon has been drawn, the fight hasn't even started, and suddenly the whole tunnel is upside down.

✦ ── You're furious, cussing them out and twisting the Rubik's cube. Every time you turn it, the gravity in the tunnel shifts, which Semiu has no trouble adjusting to. The criminals, however, fall without grace countless times.

"Seriously? I didn't think you liked that little toy so much."

"I like it because of you, Semiu. You gifted it to me, and it allows me to spend more time with you." Of course she knew that already, but she enjoyed hearing it come from you directly.

"That's plain adorable, babe." Seeing you enjoy a gift so much to the point of awakening as a giver was both an honour and a huge addition to her ego.

Tamsy

✦ ── It was an innocent gift. He got roller skates to try them out; you showed interest, so he thought you might use them more than him. He even goes out of his way to help you get used to wearing them!

✦ ── The laces were also replaced with some of Tokushin's yarn, since the originals had rotted. Overall, the personal touches he provides in fixing them up for you make it extra sweet.

✦ ── It's one evening when you're minding your own business, roller skating along the nearby town's sidewalks while Tamsy walks alongside you, that someone is crossing the road and fails to notice a car moments from hitting them.

✦ ── You're far, impossibly far, and yet your feet carry you faster than what should have been possible. You've swooped the person out of the way just in time to miss the car.

✦ ── Amazed? Of course! Impressed? Absolutely! Smitten? Of course he is; what an absolute ego boost that you became a giver thanks to his kindness.

"Rollerskates, hm? My distaff is much cooler." He was already teasing you on the walk back.

Walk, yes, because you now clutch the skates in your arms. Adrenaline is still racing from the ordeal and you're terrified you'll accidentally activate them again.

"Is teasing your way at getting me to calm down?" You looked up from the sidewalk to eye him.

"It's working, isn't it?" Of course it was, but you'd never tell him that. He was already too cocky, knowing your instrument was his gift.

Tomme

✦ ── Since you and Tomme were both supporters, you got split up a lot. That meant she always wanted to hear about what kind of trash beasts you saw during your missions so she could write about them!

✦ ── Of course, you're busy fighting for your life, and she understands you can't always be taking notes. So she gifts you a camera and requests you try to take photos of them instead—when convenient—so she can add them to her journal that way!

✦ ── And you seem to really enjoy taking photos. You take great care of the camera and are always sure to bring back something for her. It's during one encounter that you nearly die to the very trash beast you're taking a photo of, when it turns out a little...different.

✦ ── The photo has a looping animation, and it already has a caption in your handwriting detailing the encounter!

✦ ── Tomme thinks it's a super badass power and is crazy excited to use some of these special polaroids in her journal. But she is also moments from smacking you over the head for endangering your life!

"I still can't believe you'd risk your life for my hobby, though." She's shaking her head, which now rests in her hands.

"But the shot turned out great, and now I'm a giver! That's a double win." Regardless of your confidence, your smile is still sheepish.

Tomme lifts her head, using a free hand to flick your forehead.

"Don't risk your life, no matter how cool it may seem!"

Zanka

✦ ── Gifts were rare from him. He was more of an experience person who wanted to spend time with you. When he does give you a gift, it's something extremely well thought out.

✦ ── Such as the little music box with a dancing ballerina in it. It was purchased from a collector and a vintage find. Not only that, but the song it played was a lullaby he heard you hum countless times.

✦ ── Whenever you struggled to rest or anxieties came to haunt you, you'd pull out the little box and watch the ballerina 'dance' to the little tune. It was great for when he was away, too.

✦ ── During one of your missions, you and a few supporters are cornered by two Raiders. Without any combatants you're no match, and it isn't long before most of you are injured or bleeding out.

✦ ── Your music box falls out of your pocket and opens, and once the little melody starts playing, both the Raiders fall completely limp to the floor.

"I'm just glad you're okay." Zanka is sitting on the side of your hospital bed, having stayed by your side since Akuta found you and the other supporters.

"It's thanks to you, really. Your sweet gift saved me." Your hand was intertwined with his; the music box sat on the side table where you could give it a glance.

"You're the one who used its potential, not me. But..." Zanka was avoiding eye contact, though you could see a blush peeking through the hair obscuring his face.

"I'm glad it means that much to you."

Author's Note ── I actually got this as a request, but it was only for Zanka/Tamsy, and they asked for a oneshot (which I don't do upon request), so I just had fun with it since the prompt was so fun!

Why did you have to care so much about others?

Tamsy found it endearing at first. Like when you joined Team Eager and fretted over his health despite him not having more than a scratch on his sleeve. You worried about the supporters constantly, protecting them throughout battles so he and Delmon could focus on trash beasts.

Hell, you even stressed about any citizens too close to the fight, mourned the old buildings in abandoned cities that got trampled on, and pitied the little treasures thrown from the sphere, given up on, and forgotten.

You were abundant in empathy. You offered your heart to anyone and anything, even if they didn’t want it.

The cleaners adored you, though most of them acted like they didn’t spare you much thought. He knew they did, because on your days off together, walking through a city looking for something fun to do with your pinky wrapped around his only one, your choker never stopped ringing.

Semiu wanted to tell you about your missions for the next day in advance so you could prepare.

Riyo wanted to ask if you were still interested in that haircut later tonight.

Enjin wanted nothing other than to bother you, apparently.

It was frustrating, having his time off with you constantly interrupted by others. But he’d learned his lesson the first time he suggested you take it off.

The entire day was spent worrying an emergency may have occurred, and what was supposed to be a relaxing day off together turned into him trying to ease your mind out of worrying for the others. In the end, you put it back on before noon. Now he had to constantly deal with the ringer going off.

Your heart was too big for your body. You’d always put others first.

He knew all of this, and despite that, he hadn’t considered the direct consequences of his actions.

Both Team Akuta and Team Eager were sent to support Rudo on his mission to find the girl in the no-man's land.

Tamsy wasn’t worried about trash beasts. The team was so buffed out, and they were so far from any civilization that he could focus on protecting you and enjoying the entertainment the other cleaners provided.

And much to his delight, the expedition lasted much shorter than anyone could have anticipated.

“I know why you’re here. You came to see Amo, so Amo came to see you.” The girl stepped from the shroud of sand before Rudo, who had fallen after being crept up on by Team Eager.

You trailed her movements as she lifted a sleeve to cover her mouth, hiding a slight cough with her chuckle.

“That’s unsettling.” Tamsy spoke up from beside you, snapping you from your trance.

A few hurried steps and you hooked your arm under Rudo’s, helping the boy stand despite his protests about not needing help. You dusted some of the ground-up waste off of his uniform, ignoring his attempts at slapping your hands away.

“All right. Any ideas on how long she’s been there?” Though Tamsy seemed more concerned with being watched, you understood his words completely differently from how he had intended them.

“Do you need a mask, darling? I always keep a spare. Goodness, you must be in pain.” You had already reached into your cleaner bag to pull out a more standard filtering mask, stepping in front of Rudo.

“I know the sand makes it hard to see, but I didn’t even notice her approaching us!” Delmon’s yelling mixed with the wind kicking up sand in all directions made it impossible for Tamsy to pick up on what Amo said to you, though he gathered she had declined your offer when he saw you return the mask to your bag with the slump of your shoulders.

“Hold on. Is that her?” Rudo’s eyes had widened beneath the mask, taking in the sight of the girl with an air of disbelief.

Team Akuta finally caught up, with their leader placing a hand on Rudo’s shoulder to offer a reassuring squeeze.

“Anyone else get the feeling our expedition just got a whole lot shorter?”

That seemed to be the truth, with everyone eventually following Amo to her tower not long after. Though most kept their guard up with the anticipation of traps, you seemed more than relaxed. When she’d requested everyone remove their masks, you had been the first to comply—much to Tamsy’s dismay—and assured the others that the air was in fact clean.

“Wow. Your room is really pretty, Amo.” Your small talk with her was the only chatter that seemed to be going on as everyone ascended the stairs.

“Thank you! It’s full of things Amo really likes.”

With everyone in her room, some jotting notes on its appearance while others prepared for some kind of altercation, you took your place at Tamsy’s side. This was Rudo’s mission after all; you could fret over the girl and her exposure to polluted air later.

Only, the conversation hit a wall moments after you stepped back.

The moment Enjin opened his mouth, to be precise.

A twinge of annoyance made its way to the blond’s face, bothered by the sudden shrill screaming as Enjin’s words riled up Amo. The only reason you hadn’t jumped in to comfort Amo was due to Tamsy’s oversized sleeve blocking your path, so close you could feel the distaff hidden below all the fabric bump into you.

The plan was unravelling by the second, and it became clear that there was a real sense of danger when Enjin’s body crashed to the floor in a puddle of water.

Zanka was at his side in a moment, prepared to defend, while you and Tamsy kept your eyes on Delmon.

“There’s no way he’s being controlled…” Your voice trailed, focusing on your companion in the event that he lashed out again.

Tamsy nodded, eyes flickering to you for a moment before narrowing at Delmon.

“All this for a fact-finding mission. I’m starting to regret ever agreeing to come along.”

No matter how anyone attempted to rationalize Delmons actions, the first priority was preventing casualty. It didn’t help that Amo’s vague replies encouraged distrust between the lot of you, to the point where you found yourself at odds with who was on which side.

When the hose nozzle turned in your direction, you were the first to react, pushing Gris out of the way and jumping aside with him.

“Open your eyes, Rudo!”

Tamsy had grabbed the new cleaner from the back of his hood, forcing him out of the way just in time to avoid getting hit by the water.

Spending so much time worrying about others, he was beginning to act like you.

“Tomme, how is Enjin?” Your voice was low, avoiding drawing any attention to you or the supporter.

“I’m not sure yet. Just worry about the others; I’ll take care of him.” With a quick thumbs up, you were reassured enough to re-enter the fight. Pulling yourself on your feet, your hands made way to your vital instrument, readying it in hand.

Enjin was out. Rudo was (almost) out. Delmon was out. It was down to yourself, Zanka, Tamsy, and Ri-

“EYES FORWARD, RIYO!”

Zanka’s warning was lost on her, another blast of water crashing across the room and leaving the redhead flat on her back.

“What’d I say? Pay attention!” His frustration made no difference, words lost between Riyo’s groaning and Amo’s giggling.

“Wow! You don’t know who’s a fan of who anymore, huh? And now you’re scared. Everyone would have lots of fun if they just talked to Amo. You can’t be enemies when you talk about romantic stuff.” The brunette seemed more than content with the way things were going.

Something about her was drawing you in, a sense of lightheadedness growing the more time you spent in the tower.

You swallowed what felt like a lump in your throat, standing defensively infront of Tomme and Enjin.

“Someone really messed you up.” If words could be laced with poison, Tamsy would have killed the girl already. She was loud and unpredictable and was causing this mission to be way more of a pain in the ass than he would have liked.

But above all else, she was putting you in danger.

You eyes held a certain haze to them, registering that Amo was speaking but unsure what exactly she was saying.

As evidenced from her explanation, Tamsy could see your body begin to sway.

That wouldn’t do.

He didn’t mind roughing up his other companions, but the same couldn’t be said for you.

‘-oops. Amo told a big secret.”

You barely registered her words, your mind fighting between reality and some unconscious draw to the past.

Tamsy had already fastened his mask over his mouth, adjusting the belts until he was sure a decent seal had formed.

“For future reference, it’s a dangerous game playing with memories that you know absolutely nothing about. We don’t always love good people, nor does loving them leave us with only good memories.”

He had reached your side, pulling your mask out of your bag as he spoke. Before you could protest, he pressed the mask over your mouth, holding it in place until his free hand could tighten the straps behind your neck.

A deep inhale of the filtered air began to reverse the effects of Amo’s power. Though you were sure the brief ‘kiss’ Tamsy pressed to your temple with the front of his mask helped clear your mind, too.

Thats right. No need to dwell on the past; you have people like him worth protecting here and now.

“Sometimes the people we want to kill are the ones we love.”

Zanka and Tamsy had closed in on the girl, prepared to put an end to the encounter.

“Rudo, what are you doing?!” From your position on the side, you were the only one that spotted him as he rushed towards the other two, giving them just enough time to brace their bodies before they were ripped away from Amo.

Fighting your own team was wrong on so many levels. If there was some way to avoid bloodshed, that’d be ideal. But as things were standing, no one seemed to be focusing on you or the two you stood to defend. Drawing attention to yourself only risked harm towards Tomme and Enjin.

“Seems we’ve miscalculated our numbers. How unfortunate.” Tamsy assessed those surrounding him, back to back with Zanka. “They’re too far gone now.”

“I’d hoped to never use my instrument on a friend. So this is on you.” Your breath hitched, grip tightening around your own instrument. You’d worked alongside Tamsy plenty of times, and his instrument was much better for this scenario than your own. All you could do now was be a shield.

“Guys…bear with me.” The distaff wound in deep blue threads dipped past the hidden veil of his sleeve.

“Vital Instrument: Tokushin.” Holding his arm out, the little distaff began to grow, expanding in size and length until it stood taller than its wielder. The thread was now a much thicker rope, the same blue the braided strands of hair over his shoulders carried.

“I’ll kill you. I’ll kill all you sons of bitches! You will never ever touch or hurt her again!” Delmon reacted to the transformation first, prompting the others to begin rushing to the two in the middle.

Eyes glowing in gold and blue narrowed.

“Net.”

His hand gripped the side of the rope, and with one tug, the spool began to unwind. Threads fanned out across the room, locking onto walls and crossing in net-adjacent patterns. Anyone in their path was immediately caught in their restrictive hold.

All movement ceased as quickly as it had begun, any attacks caught midair in the ever-tightening hold of his Tokushin. The only ones safe from their grasp were those unaffected by the air and Amo. It seemed the attack had purposefully missed your entire vicinity, courtesy of the wielder's own caution.

Had it not been your friends getting caught in it, you would have found the display captivating. Team Eager mostly fought trash beasts, which were almost always outside and much larger than a human.

Even if a different scenario, you’d seen something akin to this attack before and seen how it could cut right through the sentient piles of trash.

“Tamsy…” You wanted to voice caution, to request he be gentle with your friends.

But with the way things were going, it didn’t seem fair to ask him or Zanka to take hits, especially without any other plans.

“You butthead! You meanie butthead! You wanted to try something so bad that you’d test it on your own friends? Even the nice lady isn’t happy with that.” Amo’s attention made its way back to you for a split second, and Tamsy’s grip on his distaff tightened.

Her smile at you was unsettling, but at the very least it wasn’t malicious.

“Oh well. Nothing can stop Amo’s fans even if they have to tear themselves apart. And thanks to you, now they’re going to have to.” With emphasis on the word ‘you’, her gaze fell back on Tamsy smile twisting into something sinister.

“Point of order. My vital instrument is a distaff. Do you know what that is?” His fingers allowed the main rod of his Tokushin to spin slowly, tightening the ropes further. “It’s not just a staff; it’s a tool used in the spinning of thread.”

The rope began to strain, pulling tighter against itself and those in its hold, before everything began shifting. The spinning picked up in speed, and no one's resistance was able to stop the rope from winding them into one large spool of limbs and yarn.

Relieved, the breath you hadn’t realized you’d been holding escaped your lips.

Tamsy hummed his own tune of delight, leaning against the spool.

“And the thread has been spun.”

A low growl fell past Amo’s lips, her body struggling at the hold she was now captured in.

“Also. The psycho mind control lady is under our control!” His gesture above him drew the eyes of everyone free from her control to the web of ropes Amo had found herself in. You cringed at the way the restraints painfully dug into her. This was awful to bear witness to.

“Well? I think it’s time you let your fans go.” He cocked his head to the side, a prideful smirk evident in his voice despite the mask hiding it.

“Don’t drag your feet either. This situation's just a bit too surreal for my tastes. And, well, I don’t like that I mostly sat this one out.” Zanka stood from his crouched position, searing blue eyes partially hidden by a half-lidded gaze.

Your attention was turned away from their banter to the ones behind you, ensuring no one had been injured further in the ordeal.

“How’s Enjin holding up?” Gris leaned over the man to get a better look while you brushed some of the hair from the leader of Team Akuta’s face.

“If you need me to use my instrument, I can.” You were the trusty healer of Team Eager after all.

“Thanks, but there’s no need right now. I put his mask on, and that’s about all we can do.” Tomme was right; your healing was best suited for life-threatening injuries or open wounds. The effects of Delmon’s instrument were something you’d treated many times before, and it was evident it wasn’t going to cause Enjin much trouble.

There wasn’t much time to fret over Enjin before a shrill scream scared you back into the fight, whipping around to face Amo. Thick tears streamed down her face as she struggled against the painful bind. Another scream and your heart was racing, panic flooding your veins. She was evidently in pain, but she wasn’t in her right mind either.

The grip on your vital instrument was shaky, and your teeth dug so deep into your tongue you could taste iron.

It was your duty to prevent injury, but was it wise to let her go? It would only result in more pain for your team.

Tamsy’s head moved to face you and the supporters.

You were frozen in place, staring at Amo with eyes so shaky he wasn’t quite sure you could see properly.

“You think this can hold me? Hold ME? Then you’ve got another thing coming! Because I’m going to get out. I’m going to rip off your arms, and then I’ll kill the shit out of every last one of you!” A cacophony of Delmons yelling, Amo’s screeching, and the strained grunts from those under her control filled the blond’s ears.

If it was irritating him, then it must have been downright traumatizing you.

A sigh fell past his lips.

“Very well. If you truly want to murder us that badly, who am I to stand in your way?” He raised his distaff from the ground, not so much as wavering despite its evident heft, and allowed it to fall back to the floor with a crackle and chime.

The entire spool began to spin, picking up in speed once the ropes connected to his staff snapped away from it. It picked up velocity so quickly the shifting air caused your hair to whip around your face, and the entire tower began to tremble.

“YOU TRICKY BASTARD!” The floor began to crack as the spool drilled through concrete.

Sensing the danger, you and Tomme grabbed onto Enjin’s arms to drag him as far back as possible.

Just in time, the floor gave way to the pressure, the spool crashing down to the next level and leaving a gaping crater in the floor.

Another crash.

And then another.

You could feel the rumble grow distant as they continued to break through the various levels of Amo’s towers until everything went eerily quiet.

“Yo Tamsy, what the hell, man? That was way too far!” Dust settled, revealing Zanka has used his staff to catch himself on the edge of the top floor, and you saw the blur of Tamsy’s uniform as he jumped down into the hole.

He landed on his feet, knees bent to absorb the shock of the fall.

Everyone in the spool was now littered around the rubble, either partially buried by it or limp atop it.

“Thank goodness that’s finally over.” All the screaming had stopped, now replaced with faint sounds of dust and debris settling.

Zanka yanked his Assistaff from the wall, jumping from floor to floor until he made it to the bottom.

Everyone was seriously injured, if not on the brink of death.

He turned to Tamsy with a glare, the intense glow of his blue eyes burning brighter with fury.

“Are you insane, man?! You’d kill your own—”

“Ahaha! You see? That's what you get! This always happens whenever people don't just talk with Amo like Amo wants! They show Amo all their sides, even the ones they try hard to hide away. And now all your friends are going to die because you’re a meanie stinky face! Amo wonders if you were ever really friends at all!” The girl was staring down at the two men, giggles making their way through every pause for breath.

Using their conversation from below as cover, you took slow steps towards Amo until you were right behind her.

A hand grabbed your shoulder, causing you to nearly jump out of your skin.

“Seems like NOT dying is the new hotness now.” Enjin’s voice was muffled by the mask, though you could hear his grin. “Just remember, I did it first.”

Thank goodness he was back on his feet.

Speaking of, you quickly reached down and pulled one of Amo’s boots off, tossing it to the leader of Akuta.

“This is mine now, by the way. And that’s not up for discussion.” He held it like a trophy, resulting in the roll of your eyes.

He couldn’t see the smile under your mask, but he knew you were relieved.

Stepping away from the altercation with Amo, you were quick to rush down the stairs of the tower to meet up with the other cleaners.

Though Remlin’s spellcasting ability reversed the effects of deadly wounds, there were certainly still non-lethal injuries you could help with. Not far behind you were Tomme and the others, who stepped in to check on those who’d fallen such a great height.

The first person you checked on was Follo, who’d seemingly landed on his head. It was evident the spell had healed a good portion of the damage, though he was still littered with scrapes and gashes from the debris.

Before you could even activate your vital instrument to start mending him, a loud crack came from behind you.

Gasps left the mouths of those present, and the distinct sound of a body slumping to the floor was enough to get you to turn around.

Amo was on the ground, blood pouring from her nose. Rudo stood above her with his fist raised.

“Rudo! Hey, easy! You need to calm the hell down!” Enjin and Gris had moved to intercept him while you jumped to your feet.

Their voices blurred together, your mind too fixated on the panicked rise and fall of the brunette's chest.

He’d hit her pretty good; the damage was obvious.

“Yo healer, get her patched up, would you please?” The unwelcome nickname Enjin gave you pulled you from your thoughts, though your usual displeasure was nowhere to be seen. You only nodded, rushing to the aid of the girl as he pulled Rudo away from the crowd.

Tamsy kept his eyes on you, observing how you used your thighs to cushion the girls head from the floor. He mostly watched to ensure she wouldn’t cause you any harm, though he’d be lying if he said it wasn’t also to see your instrument at work.

“Vital Instrument: Child’s Play.” Your soft-spoken voice was a comfort to all you healed, though especially to those who were still recovering from Amo’s control. At your side, a kid’s wooden medical toy kit popped open, revealing a variety of now life-size tools for you to use.

He found your instrument adorable. The little mint and pastel pink tools were cutesy regardless of their toy or activated form, and their effects on the giver you treated were even more entrancing.

Of your available tools, you chose a package of bandages, picking out an orange one and smoothing it onto the cheek of the girl you tended to. Tomme had wiped the blood from her face for you, which gave Tamsy the perfect view of how the bandaid glowed absorbed into her skin.

With just that one treatment, the swelling and bruising on her face began to fade back to a healthy state.

The only evidence she'd been harmed at all was the tears prickling at the corner of her eyes.

“Does that feel better, Amo…?” Your voice was so gentle it felt as though only she could hear it, and she nodded quickly despite the faint headache that remained in her head.

“Yes, Amo doesn’t hurt much anymore. Thank you, Miss Healer.” You couldn’t help but smile, the normally irritating nickname a whole lot cuter coming from the young girl.

“I’m sorry about everything. We really did just come to talk, but we let things get out of hand.” Tomme helped the girl sit up, while you brushed some of the hair from her face and readjusted bits of her clothing to sit how they intended.

“You know I’d love to chat! We could have one now if you still want to.” Tomme removed her mask, and you followed her lead. She seemed to prefer seeing people's faces before; hopefully this would help her relax.

“Tomme and I honestly love talking about romantic stuff, we talk about it together all the time.” She was your favourite supporter, after all. You’d requested her for more missions than you could count. She was the one person you spoke openly to about your relationship with Tamsy.

“You both talk like how a good momma should sound.” Amo’s gaze finally moved up, though her words left you flustered.

“You think so?” Tomme chuckled. It was a sweet sentiment.

“Amo knows what a good momma sounds like. Amo had a good momma. Momma gave Amo her first love! He was who Amo got her treasure from. And why Amo saw the angel that goes between the sphere and the ground.” She was fidgeting with the ends of her skirt, hands tracing along her boots at the mention of her treasure.

“Oh? Thats nice.” You nodded along, not fully registering Amo’s words in your bashful state.

“You saw someone go to the sphere?” Tomme interrupted soon after, nudging Gris with her elbow.

“Wait. What did you just say?”

Noticing the important shift in the conversation, you took it as a sign to get out of the way of everything.

“How are you doing, Tamsy?” He was further from the group and watched as everything went down.

“Not a scratch.” You already knew that, he was certain, but he was still a tad cocky in how he delivered it.

You joined him at his side, facing towards Amo as the glow in your eyes faded. Your medical kit shifted back to its smaller size and fit perfectly in your cleaner bag, where it usually awaited use.

Nothing had gone as you expected. You couldn’t help but feel awful for both Amo and Rudo. The things that must have happened to leave them this way… You only knew bits and pieces of Rudo’s backstory, but the more Amo spoke, the more sick you felt. She was all alone out here and taken advantage of so young.

You weren’t sure what the cleaner next to you was thinking, but he seemed just as interested in her story as you did.

Everyone began to hypothesize on the supposed angel, throwing out ideas faster than you could come up with one.

“Or it’s nothing. She’s clearly mentally unstable. She might have imagined the whole thing.” Being the realist of the group—or pessimist, depending on how you looked at it—Tamsy was quick to point out the surrealism of her story.

“But the real question is, if true, how do angels cross the border?” Riyo shifted her weight from one foot to the other, hips cocking with the motion.

“With their wings?” Amo wasn’t quite sure what this so-called ’border’ was.

“Amo, do you think you can recall where the angel landed?” Getting a chance to work your own question into the conversation, you peered at the girl with curiosity.

“Past where Amo could see.”

The conversation didn’t make it much further than that. It was clear that was all Amo had to offer on the topic.

Before everyone took their leave, Amo was fitted with a choker.

You offered your blood right after Rudo, though in addition you encouraged her into an embrace.

The brunette was uncertain at first, but the feeling of your warm arms wrapping around her made her melt right into your embrace. Amo thought you smelled nice and that your smile was pretty before, but now she also knew you gave really nice hugs.

Behind you, watchful eyes fell into an irritated glare, though it lasted shorter than anyone could have caught.

Letting her take her time, you only pulled away once she began to let go.

“Call me at least once a day, okay, dear? Just so we know you’re safe.” The idea of leaving her alone out here made you uncomfortable, but it was clear Amo needed time to say goodbye to things before she moved on.

“Yes, Miss Healer, Amo promises!” Her smile was so contagious you couldn’t help but smile back, patting her head.

“See you later!” You jogged towards Tamsy, who stood waiting for you, and joined the rest of the cleaners on their trek out of Penta.

After making it back to HQ, you were quick to wash off the grime of the day with a cold shower. While you were at it, you gave your uniform a thorough cleaning to remove any of the pungent ground-up waste that made up the dunes of Petra.

All things considered, you had walked out of the altercation in good shape, which made your work for tomorrow far less dreadful.

Damp strands of hair from your shower still stuck to your face as you pulled your pyjama shorts over your legs, allowing the waistband to snap against the tank top that hugged your waist in all the right ways. When your feet were more dry than wet, you stepped into your slippers and exited the bathroom.

All you needed was your choker and your vital instrument, which you managed to hold with one hand so you wouldn’t struggle much with the door on the way out of your room.

His room was only a few doors down, the hallway that made up Eager’s and Child’s dorms mostly uninhabited.

Eager was a much smaller team compared to that of Akuta. Which meant you guys shared with the younger group. Not that you minded; they were at the opposite end of the hall and went to bed pretty early. In fact—as much as you loved them—you’d choose sharing with Team Child over the disruptive Team Akuta any day.

You only got to knock once before the door opened, a blanket of blond and navy hair taking up most of your view.

“I was wondering when you’d show.” He’d clearly just showered as well, evident by his pristine hair, though it was clear he had taken the time to dry it unlike you.

He stepped out of the way, closing the door behind you with the click of the lock.

“Sorry, I took my time cleaning my uniform for tomorrow. That dust gets absolutely everywhere.” You visibly shuddered, managing to get a chuckle from your partner.

“You’re quite the dramatic one, aren’t you?” His eyes followed you as you put your instrument alongside his Tokushin on the nightstand and hung your choker on the same hook as his. Your items always found a home next to his things, the same way you always found yourself back at his side.

“Oh please, are we forgetting your big display today? Zanka was complaining over dinner about you having a stick up your—”

“Okay, I get it.” He raised his hands in mock surrender.

He looked much less menacing with his hair down and in his sleepwear—just a large long-sleeve shirt and pyjama pants—not that his looks ever made you shy away.

Even now, in the dimly lit room alone with him, you dared to step closer.

Fingers brushing the long strands from his face, you were able to catch the way his eyes followed the tips of your fingers until they were in his periphery, settling on your own eyes instead. You’d spent all day worrying about others; you were sure he wanted you to dote on him now.

Still, your face carried the weight of someone who had a lot on their mind, even if your anxious smile did its best to convince him otherwise.

“Something's troubling you.” His hands lazed their way around your waist, thumbs hooking around the waistband of your shorts to force your hips against him.

Your smile faltered, letting your head drop under the canopy of his hair to rest in the crook of his neck.

“Everything from today. Rudo, Amo, the ‘angel,’ the tower.” So much of it had been out of place, but one thing seemed to fester in a bundle of dread and anxiety that welled up in your gut. “Amo’s out there in a no-man’s land, all alone. I can’t help but be worried that if something happened to her, no one would know.”

You couldn’t see the way his eye twitched when you brought her up with all the hair in your vision, and without it you could only assume the way his hands tightened on your waist was to comfort you.

“I’m sure if something happens she would call one of us. Our chokers keep us connected, after all.” His voice had dropped to a mumble, lips pressing a kiss to your temple. You could feel the cold metal of his piercing as he did so.

“….You’re right. But no matter how I look at it, I just have a bad feeling, is all.” You leaned back so you could get a good look at his face. He looked like an angel in what little lighting the window allowed to slip in. “I’m sure I’ll feel better by tomorrow. Mission should keep my mind off things.”

Tamsy hummed in agreement, offering a closed-eyed smile, before letting you go.

You moved towards the bed, deciding to lie on top of the comforter and enjoy the breeze from the open crack in the window just above your head. It was too hot for blankets, especially with someone as clingy as Caines.

He took his time getting into bed, first brushing his teeth and cleaning out his piercing before making his way to the bedside.

“You’re forgetting something.” He chuckled, reaching over you to pull the slippers off your feet.

They were set down neatly on the floor at the base of the bed, his alongside them.

Joining you on top of all the sheets, he flopped down onto the mattress, arms clinging to your sides and face buried into your stomach. His hair cascaded around the bed, though most of it ended up on your chest and on your face.

“Oh gosh, Rapunzel is drowning me in her hair.” Your voice was muffled, hand worming its way out of his grip to move any strands away from your face. You let your arm fall over him, hugging around his shoulders with a reassuring squeeze.

Tamsy chose to ignore your comment, instead peppering kisses along your clothed midsection until it elicited a giggle from your lips.

“Goodnight, lover.” Done bombarding you with his affection, he let his head come to rest on your stomach, enjoying the rise and fall of each breath you took.

A satisfied hum dragged itself out of him when your fingers messed into his hair to scratch at his scalp.

“Sleep well, Tamsy.” Your voice was much softer this time, a welcome change.

It wasn’t long before you fell asleep. He remained awake a moment longer, allowing his thumbs to rub slow circles into your skin.

Moments like these were a treasure to him.

The next morning came too soon for his tastes; he was woken by his own alarm and you pushing him off of you.

He resisted, holding you down in the bed for a moment longer than you’d have probably liked.

“Tamsy, I need to go…! Just because you have nothing to do today doesn’t mean I can slack off too.” Oh, but how fun it’d be to keep you here until you were late enough to get in trouble. He loved the idea of you all flustered, trying to explain yourself to the others. Knowing you, you would take the blame for his actions, too.

But he was on a tight schedule too; it was his day off after all.

Once you had scrambled your way out of his room, carrying only your instrument, he decided to get up.

It was only on his way out the door that he realized you’d left your choker in his room.

He contemplated hiding it for a moment. If he kept it, you’d surely 'miss' Amo’s call.

No matter, his puppet had likely already dragged her across Petra to where she’d be staying for the time being. You'd never get that call.

“Oh, Tamsy! There you are. Do you have my—?” You’d found him in the hall, decked out in your fresh cleaner’s uniform and ready to head out the door.

He was already holding the choker out with both hands, open and ready to clasp. You leaned in, letting him wrap it around your neck until one end locked into the other. He took the proximity as a chance to press a kiss to your forehead.

“You’re with Team Child today, aren’t you?”

“Yep! Nothing major today. We’re going to meet up with Akuta later for dinner, too, so no need to wait on me!” You returned the kiss, a quick one to his lips which left a smudge of your lipgloss on him. You left for the exit as quickly as you’d appeared.

You’d be gone a while, then. That was a shame. Normally you two requested days off together. When you couldn’t, you did your best to spend time together outside of the other’s mission. It seems that wouldn’t be the case today; you likely wouldn’t be back till late.

At least he had a lot of time to visit his captive.

What was supposed to be one small mission with Team Child and a group dinner had turned into something much, much worse.

Having both teams abducted by the raiders was already bad, but being without the supporters and separated from your companions was what could only be described as the worst-case scenario.

Chokers weren’t working, and you had been completely isolated up until Enjin came bursting through the hall before you and led everyone to the main chasm. The entire ordeal had passed like a fever dream, though you recalled tending to Guita with your instrument and stabilizing Zanka as best as you could before being electrocuted to all hell. Then, everything started falling.

Guita had cushioned everyone's fall, but the aftermath of the battle was overwhelming.

Zanka was stabilized, but your instrument did little work on poisons you didn’t know. Riyo was also beat up, which you managed to fix. What was hurting Rudo was entirely psychological, something you could only help with words and time.

Unfortunately, the sight of Amo’s boots clutched in his grip left you speechless.

So there you were, sitting in the very back of one of the emptier jeeps. Gris was driving, and Rudo was passed out alongside Enjin in the middle row.

You were slumped against Tamsy’s shoulder, and though you’d been silent for the majority of the ride, it wasn’t long before your exterior began to crack.

Tears slipped down your cheeks, caught by the fabric of his jacket. You were clinging to one of his arms, his hand planted firmly on one of your thighs. No matter how tired you were, your mind was slam-packed with anxieties over Amo.

“And we’re certain it wasn’t the Raiders?” Tamsy kept his voice low, keeping the conversation between the two of you. He’d been doing his best not to press you too much, allowing you time to gather your thoughts.

You nodded, your shaky grip on his jacket faltering.

“Not yet, though Rudo seems pretty sure, but…” your voice trailed, words growing quieter anytime your subconscious began to slip.

“But?”

“It doesn’t matter to me who did it. What matters is that she’s probably scared right now, alone, and she wouldn’t have been had…had…” This time your head fell against his shoulder, eyes closed as your body could no longer run on empty.

When your breathing evened out and Tamsy was certain you wouldn’t wake up, he took the opportunity to adjust you to a more comfortable position against him. Using the softer inner part of his jacket sleeve, he wiped away any remaining tears from your cheeks.

How troubling.

You’d gotten quite attached to that Amo girl in such little time.

And right you were. The girl was very much alone and terrified. But there was nothing you could have done to prevent it.

When everyone arrived back at HQ, he slipped his arms under you to carry you back to his room. You looked so beautiful when you were this vulnerable to him, and if anything, the dried-up tears on your cheeks added to the allure.

It truly hurt him to see you so distraught, but it was only temporary.

Eventually the cleaners would find Amo; that was all apart of the plan to break Rudo.

Gently, he laid you down on his bed and helped you out of your uniform. For now he could only clean you with a damp towel, removing battle grime as best as possible before dressing you in one of his long-sleeved sleeping shirts. You curled right up into his blankets on your own, soon joined by his own body pulling you back against his chest.

This was all the direct result of his actions, whether you knew it or not, anyhow.

In the meantime, it was a bonus that you’d become dependent on him, so caught up in your fragile little emotions and guilt.

Your caring nature was still cute, even if it left you like this at times.

Author's Note ── Christ I am down bad for this guy; it isn't even funny. I have so many ideas on what to write for him too, like, damn!!!!!

Chrollo

✦ ── It was typical for him to disappear for weeks to months at a time, with none of the Troupe aware of his whereabouts, doing who knows what. Except he always contacted you once a month to meet up.

✦ ── Different place every time, but always some kind of book cafe. He would meet you there late in the evening and update you on his dealings and treat it almost akin to a one-sided book club.

✦ ── This spot had a nice couch, and you took the opportunity to lie across it, head on one armrest while he sat at the other end, your ankles on his lap. He'd read aloud to you, even if he spotted you drifting off.

"Am I that boring?" Your leader mused, closing the book to rest his chin on his fist, elbow propped on the other armrest. You were fast asleep and had been for a few minutes now.

Once Chrollo was sure he had memorized your sleeping face, he went back to reading his book, held in one hand. His other toyed with the small chain around your ankle, an anklet he had gifted you long ago.

He wouldn't dare rouse you, nor would he let anyone else. Chrollo would sooner kill everyone in the shop if it meant he got an extra moment with you like this.

Feitan

✦ ── He's small. He's cold. He's uncomfortable. Feitan has no reason to believe you'd ever go to him for 'comfort'; he is a sea urchin of a human.

✦ ── So when he's reading, having just finished torturing the man bleeding out a few meters away and having gotten the intel he wanted, and you slump against him? Yeah, he's surprised!

✦ ── When you do wake up, you might catch him practicing some of the words from the book aloud. But once he realizes you're awake, expect his lips to be sealed and to be shoved off him.

"What doing?" He practically spits the words, harsh as always, and throws you a hard side-eye.

You're asleep. How? How on earth could you sleep like this, and with the victim's ugly sobs audible no less? Whatever. You can stay, only because you'd be no use to him deprived of sleep.

You're nice and warm, too.

Hisoka

✦ ── Are you sure that's a good idea? It's certain that he wouldn't shy away from contact or find affection gross, but he might not be the safest option.

✦ ── At least that is what anyone else would think, but you don't seem to care, because you're fast asleep with your back to his chest.

✦ ── Hisoka doesn't seem to care either; he just adapts. He pulls you closer so you don't slump forward and rests his hands on your lap instead. He can still shuffle, even with his arms around you, and he might try to build a card tower on your lap if you're still.

You were always direct with him, telling him to move his arms so you could plop yourself right between his legs and use him like a rest. Still, he didn't expect you to fall asleep.

"How amusing." He poked you a few times, but it didn't gain any reaction, so he continued practicing small card tricks in front of you, even if you wouldn't see.

He has his head resting on your shoulder so he can see his hands as he works and listens closely to every breath you take.

Illumi

✦ ── Always as stiff as a board, effective, and calculated. It's insanely hard to get close to Illumi because he always assumes one's actions are for the worst.

✦ ── But you're just so disarming. You make every effort to touch him—usually his hair—and never seem offended when he moves away; you just try again. So, Illumi decides it's a waste of time making space between you two.

✦ ── You can play with his hair, poke his needles, and fall asleep on him all you want. It's not like it brings him any harm, and why would it matter what you did?

You make him feel weird, and you always do strange stuff, but at least you're predictable while you sleep.

It did leave you vulnerable, though. He thought you were being stupid for resting on him when he could so easily kill you. He would not, no, not ever, but he could.

Illumi is used to being still for hours on end, and so he will amuse your antics for the time being by staying still and allowing you rest. Assassins do not need friends, but allies are good to have, right?

Machi

✦ ── Machi keeps her distance from everyone, even those she likes, just to be sure she's ready for anything unexpected. That, and it was harder for the others to tell who she liked.

✦ ── But when you two are alone, she stands close, like a guard dog. You want to sleep on her? Yeah, okay, she won't hold still for you, but she'll let you.

✦ ── God, you're so in the way of her sewing that she has to run her arm around your waist so she can get around you and keep working. So annoying.

"Seriously?" She mutters under her breath, scoffing at your ridiculousness. There was a bed not more than a few meters away, and you still decided this was the best place?

Who cares? You can sleep wherever you want. So long as you don't ruin her project or tell anyone about this, she'll let you rest.

Pakunoda

✦ ── She was friendly, sweet, and alluring. You always commented on the captivating scents of her perfume oil, and she always tried to find one you'd like more than the last.

✦ ── Given she always has the relaxing aura about her, especially with you, it seems to finally slip beyond a pleasant feeling into something so gentle you get real tired around her.

✦ ── Paku watches you fall asleep in real time, and she gently guides you down until you're resting with your shoulders and head on her lap. She won't touch you any further, but she will admire you.

It was late, and they were still waiting on the rest of the troupe to arrive. Pakunoda methodically polished her revolver, counting each bullet as she locked them in place.

Below her working hands was your resting face, head cushioned from the floor by her thighs. Her eyes traced you every few minutes, making sure you showed no sign of discomfort.

When it was time to wake up, she'd give you a quick kiss on your forehead and nudge you until those pretty eyes opened.

Phinks

✦ ── This cocky asshole may act like he's nothing but a fighting machine, but he cares. Yeah, he cares a lot actually, and you're his soft spot.

✦ ── You could tell him point blank you're going to sleep on him, and he'd let it happen, but he's glad you did it unexpectedly because he can play it off as if he isn't happy about it.

✦ ── He'll wrap both arms around you and hold you close, lie back so you can rest comfortably on him, and do his best not to move too much.

Thank god there was a couch nearby when you fell asleep, because without his track jacket he'd have frozen if you'd both stayed on the floor.

That very jacket is pulled over your shoulders like a blanket, and he's holding you close to steal some of that radiating warmth you let off. His expression remains cold, almost annoyed, but he's still holding on tight.

"You're lucky I'm in a good mood." He says it knowing you won't hear it, mostly to rationalize his affectionate actions as nothing more than chance.

Shalnark

✦ ── Out of anyone, he's most likely to have fallen asleep on you before, and he's always opening his arms to envelop you in a hug once he knows you'll accept it.

✦ ── So when you finally make yourself comfortable, curling up next to him and resting the side of your head on his lap, he has to stop himself from celebrating.

✦ ── There is no shame; Shalnark will let his hand play with your hair and touch your face. He wants to feel you, and it seems to soothe you into an even deeper slumber!

His fingers were careful not to mess up or tangle your hair as he carefully brushed through it, moving his hand to trace the outer edge of your ear and follow your jaw where his thumb could caress your cheek.

Your soft breathing was a sign that he wasn't being a disturbance, so he kept going. Mindlessly memorizing the dips and plush parts of your face while he listened for any small noises you offered.

"Sleep as long as you like." His voice was more soft-spoken than he expected, a smile making its way to his lips. You really did mess with his feelings, huh?

Shizuku

✦ ── Not the kind to initiate contact, but also not the kind to shy away from someone else. She is quiet and a great companion for sleep if you want to be watched over the whole time.

✦ ── Shizuku is pretty certain you've never just passed out against her, though. She was sure she would remember something so meaningful! That's why this is such a big deal.

✦ ── Stares at you the whole time and wonders aloud what you might be dreaming about. She'll ask questions, even if she knows you can't answer.

"Are you asleep?" Her eyes peer at you through her glasses, though the answer is obvious when your breath is moving so slow and you give not an inch of a reply.

"Did you not rest well last night?" This time, her hand lifts to hold the side of your head and pull you against her more, making sure you're at least a bit more comfortable.

"If it's okay, I won't wake you up." She could, but she doesn't really feel like it. She likes you anyways, so you should make sure to sleep extra long so she can enjoy it!

Uvogin

✦ ── Ah, yes, this is certainly not the first time you would have fallen asleep on him. Uvo is big, warm, and well-cushioned. He naps all the time while being forced to wait on orders, too.

✦ ── But in the middle of a mission, while you're in the getaway car and being chased down? He barely feels it when you lean against him, but when he tosses a glance your way, he can't help but chuckle at your carelessness.

✦ ── You're moved to his lap, both to make more room for the others and so he can shield you from any stray bullets or if the car takes a tumble.

"You're crazy." He says it with a grin, because quite frankly he likes that about you.

Watching you rest as if you're in a safe haven, and watching you cling to him, is extremely amusing. You're nowhere near this clingy when you're awake, so he's going to savour it!

Even as the car comes to a screeching halt, you don't wake. So Uvogin takes it upon himself to sling you over his shoulder and fight one-handed! He's extra vicious because he's gotta make sure Sleeping Beauty gets her rest.

August

✦ ── August (kind of) gets it! I mean, he's always asked to make new uniforms and replace spares, but he's made sure no one rushes or bothers him again by crashing the fuck out. Want him to crash out on others for you? Because he will!

✦ ── Need some place to hide? Come to his workshop! No one will bother him when the door is closed. He'll even let you choose what's on the radio. Anytime you want to get away from others, you're welcome to hang with him!

✦ ── He keeps the peace—if you call peace annoying people till they fuck off—in your personal spaces. Someone wants to ask you for help in the dining hall? Good luck getting a word in over him. Someone knocking on your bedroom door too late? He's swinging it open and making them as uncomfortable as possible.

✦ ── Overwork yourself all you want when you're alone; you are his little people-pleaser after all. But if he is there to stop it, then he will, because people need to learn some damn boundaries. The only person allowed to bother you is him.

✦ ── You are a cleaner, so no matter what, you'll be overworked. When it can't be helped, August has a little nook for you in his workshop to destress.

"DINNER IS LOOKIN' HELLA GOOD, BABE!" Using his foot to slide the door closed behind him, he made his way to the beanbag you were curled up on, offering a plate from the dining hall.

You could still hear him through the headphones he had put on you, which were currently more for noise cancelling than music playing.

It was weird seeing him without them around his neck.

While you took your plate from his hands, he used a gloved finger to push the left speaker behind your ear.

Stealing the chair from his desk, he dragged it up closer to you so you could enjoy dinner together, plopping down with a dramatic groan. He was still shouting, though at least his volume had dropped:

"Lemme know if you want more, I'll get it for ya!"

Corvus

✦ ── It was partially his fault that you were so busy. Corvus knew what you could handle best and had a say on what Semiu assigned you. For that, he felt guilty.

✦ ── But being a cleaner was more than just missions. You were always helping others out with their personal goals, helping with training, and not to mention assisting Corvus in his research.

✦ ── So whenever you get busy with a ton of things outside of your normal purview, he may or may not slip a request to Semiu about lightening your mission load for a bit. You 'just so happen' to have days without work more frequently than anyone else.

✦ ── The office is as much yours as it is his. Anytime you need a quiet place to work, you can slip in, no questions asked. You need a desk? He'll work on the couch. You need somewhere to rest? Switch spots with him, and he'll let you use his jacket as a blanket too.

✦ ── You're both insanely busy people, but that's why he's able to appreciate all the work you put into things. He can see what you do, and he hears others praise you time and time again. What you do for the cleaners—for him—is astonishing.

"How was today?" He asked when you entered his office, watching you shut the door behind you as quietly as possible.

No words left you, but a quick glance, and he understood better than any that you were plain exhausted. Physically, emotionally, and in every other way.

Plopping onto the couch, he was at your side soon after. He lifted your head with one hand to place two fluffed throw pillows under it, gently lowering you into their comfort.

His jacket was next, draped over you with a surprising heft to it. It was similar to a weighted blanket, pushing your body further into the cushions in a comforting embrace that smelled just like your partner.

"Rest as long as you need."

Jabber

✦ ── Even after slaving away on Zodyl's 'experiments,' various missions assigned to you, and assisting the Raiders with other needs, you still gave Jabber as much of your time as you could. And dang, he appreciated the hell out of you for it!

✦ ── One of the worst parts about you being busy is that he's so damn bored! His lovely partner isn't here to keep him entertained anymore, so what is he supposed to do?

✦ ── Honestly starts going with you on missions, even if he wasn't asked, because at least he has something to do! And I mean, more chances to protect you AND fight AND give you less work? Triple win!

✦ ── Doesn't give a flying fuck if someone wants your help with something. If it isn't an order from the boss—and even then he has a hard time caring about it—then it isn't worth your time. If someone ever asks him to pass along a request, he'll purposefully not.

✦ ── Whether you like it or not, if you REALLY overdo it with extra work? He might just give you a little poke with one of his claws and give you a nice dose of tranquillizer. Be mad at him all you want; your body needs the rest.

"-so that little guy just does whatever I 'order' him to! Ain't that crazy?"

He'd been talking for the better half of an hour, fingers combing through your hair with your head resting on his lap.

Your entire body was limp, eyes half-lidded, and lips parted. Occasionally you'd begin drooling onto his pants, but he'd swipe it up with a thumb and lick it clean anytime that happened.

When he looked down, he could see you making your best attempt at a glare.

"Still mad, huh? Don't worry, if anyone's pissed, I'll take the blame. Can't have you any more stressed, right, doll?

Tamsy

✦ ── Despite the fact that you two are on the same team, you manage to get sent on far more missions than him. You also have 1/4th the days off he does, though he has more than most regardless.

✦ ── He won't tell you what to do or not to do, but he will voice his concerns frequently. Do you really need to say yes to Semiu every time? Can't someone else go? How about he fill in for you (rare, but he would if you let him!!!)?

✦ ── You, and you alone, are permitted to enter his room without asking—or ever, really. No matter how late you show up or how early you leave, you are always welcome to snuggle up with him in bed.

✦ ── If others get too demanding of you and your skills, he starts to work behind the scenes, dissuading people from asking you whenever possible. It doesn't matter to him if others are short-handed on missions or overworked, just so long as it isn't you.

✦ ── Always gets something for you in his free time to gift to you between your work. Be it a book you mentioned wanting to read, an album you like, or treats he's sure you'll enjoy. God PERMITTING you have a day off together, he'll treat you to a really nice day-long date.

"You've been busy all week, so it's started to accumulate." He seemed the least bit concerned about it, however.

The smug smile never left his face as he gestured with an oversized sleeve to the pile of bags on his dresser.

Each was from a different shop; some you recognized, and others you'd never seen. Sweets, accessories, magazines, anything that reminded him of you.

"Go through them at your own pace, though I'd start here." He pulled a small container with macaroons out of one smaller bag. "Best today while they're fresh, don't you think?"

Author's Note ── August, Tamsy and Jabber in one request? My big three? Oh hells yeah. I adore Corvus too, which only rounded this out!

August

✦ ── Oh, he is SO excited about having a little version of his partner. He loves you so much, and now he has another outlet for all that loving!

✦ ── Anytime he makes you an outfit he makes a mini version for chibi s/o! They're just as much of a doll as you are, and sometimes he uses chibi s/o as a model to try ideas he'll later make for you.

✦ ── Built the chibis a little 'apartment' of sorts on his desk where they can hang out, and he can keep an eye on them. They've gotten lost in his mess of a workshop too many times, so this is the safest and cutest bet.

✦ ── Little August overwhelms chibi s/o with attention. They're almost always being bombarded with affection until they're a dizzy, blushing mess.

✦ ── Sometimes chibi August gives August too much inspiration on how to fluster you, and you become the target of his affection as well. Chibi and actual s/o defeated!

"Give them a break, August!" You giggled, pulling chibi August away from chibi s/o. He had put his glasses on them, along with a new outfit, and covered them in kisses.

Now he was just grinning up at you with pink eyes you rarely saw.

"Don't worry little me! I'll distract them !" August chimed in right as you let chibi August go.

"Auggie, no!" You were too late to raise your hands and were tackled to the floor of the workshop. Chibi August used this opportunity to go right back to chibi s/o.

Eishia

✦ ── Oh my goodness, her heart can't take having a little you! They're just so adorable and sweet. Has probably teared up a few times just looking at chibi s/o.

✦ ── Medical equipment is dangerous and sometimes scary, so Eishia prefers chibi s/o and chibi Eishia to stay with you or in her room whenever she's working. Unless you can supervise them in the medical ward.

✦ ── Chibi s/o is spoiled with small kisses to the top of their head and snacks she keeps hidden in her desk drawer just for them.

✦ ── When the two chibis are left alone together, they can usually be found playing small games or working together to tidy up a space.

✦ ── Chibi Eishia scares easily, so chibi s/o is always there to comfort her and try to prove something isn't scary. Eishia is always asking if she's really that anxious, and you comfort her the same way chibi s/o does.

"What do you think they're doing?" Eishia and you were watching the two struggling with a blanket that could easily cover them several times over.

"Folding it?" You shrugged, though Eishia was already moving to take the blanket from them.

She folded it up nicely before putting it back on the desk, lifting both the chibis onto it. They both fell into the cloth immediately, evidently tired from their attempt at helping.

"...I suppose so?"

Enjin

✦ ── He's kind of used to the whole adoptive uncle thing for several kids, but he's never had to care for anything so small and fragile and that he loves so damn dearly.

✦ ── Honestly, he overcompensates in gentleness towards his chibi s/o out of fear of hurting them. Always moving slowly when carrying them, keeping his voice gentle, and talking to them constantly.

✦ ── Smoked near chibi s/o once, and they started choking, so now he literally refuses to smoke in the same building as them. He felt so guilty, still does.

✦ ── Chibi Enjin is still rough with chibi s/o in the same way actual Enjin is with you. It's just tough love, but he can still be caught carrying chibi s/o and holding their hand.

✦ ── Very possessive of chibi s/o. Enjin wants to carry them whenever he can, and chibi Enjin is attached to their damn hip. This forced you to stay with the three of them, too.

"Gotcha!" You proclaimed, camera clicking as you snapped a photo of the chibis holding hands.

Immediately, tiny Enjin let go, giving his best attempt at flipping the camera off.

"Hey, be nice." Enjin poked the little guy, resulting in him falling on his ass. Chibi s/o quickly ran over to help him up, but it was clear his ego had already been deeply bruised.

Follo

✦ ── Don't do this to him, please. He can barely handle how much he loves you, and now he has another? And they're so small and so nice to him, too! No, he isn't crying!!! There's just something in his eye!

✦ ── Literally cradling them in his cupped hands, treating them as if they might fall apart if he so much as breathes too hard on them. This is so much responsibility, and he's freaking out!

✦ ── Other than holding them, the only place he's comfortable keeping them is between his neck and shirt collar, where they can't fall.

✦ ── Chibi Follo is high-key super clingy with chibi s/o. They're always together, holding hands and adventuring together. He is very protective, though, and refuses to get into any trouble.

✦ ── Very common to find the chibis asleep on top of eachother. Chibi Follo is very sleepy and can't rest without his partner, so sometimes it's just him asleep while chibi s/o is awake but clinging to him.

"Awh..." You couldn't help but pout at the sight, while Follo's face was blushing a whole new shade of red.

Chibi s/o stared up at the two of you, half smothered in chibi Follo's arms. He was fast asleep, with no sign of waking up anytime soon.

"I don't do that, do I?" Follo looked at you anxiously, instantly betrayed by the smile on your face.

"Yeah, but I didn't want you to stop, so I never told you."

Gris

✦ ── Chibi s/o is spoiled for care by this man. He knows exactly how to keep them happy, entertained, and all without spoiling them too much.

✦ ── Not even batting an eye, it's as if he knows exactly what they want just by how they look at him. If you pay enough attention, you'll realize he does the same with you.

✦ ── Since he gets along with his mini self, it means the chibis spend a lot of time together with him. In fact, Gris really loves watching them interact when he can't be with you.

✦ ── Chibi Gris likes to act all mature and keep you safe from any hazards. He points at sharp or dangerous things and shakes his head to try and teach chibi s/o what to avoid.

✦ ── The chibis hug a lot. Chibi Gris always has his arm around chibi s/o in some way, keeping them close so Gris doesn't worry about where either of them may have wandered off to.

"Good job keeping them safe, bud." Gris offered a thumbs up to his chibi, who gave one right back.

The chibis were huddled together under a blanket, with chibi s/o comfortably asleep on chibi Gris' lap.

"I'm starting to think you baby me too much. In fact, I'm doing a lot of self-reflection over this." You sighed, to which Gris chuckled.

"Really? And here I thought I wasn't doing enough."

Jabber

✦ ── Are you sure he can be trusted with something so small? No. But Jabber refuses to let you take his little s/o away from him! They're his, and so are you, so hands off!

✦ ── Surprisingly careful with them. Lil Jab may be able to scratch you and get away with it, but one scrape on chibi s/o and they might just die. This means absolutely no Mankira around chibi s/o.

✦ ── Dangled them by their shirt a lot. If they freak out too much out of fear of being dropped, he mockingly babies them with a bunch of kisses and teasing jokes.

✦ ── Lil Jab still refuses to use Mankira on chibi s/o, in the same way he refuses to use it on you. It's cute, considering actual Jabber has poked you before and probably will again.

✦ ── Finding chibi s/o clutching onto chibi Jabber while he's under the effects of his own poison is a common sight. The first few times they panic, but they get used to caring for him after a while.

"I'm pretty sure he's doing it to get doted on, and not just for the high." You were looking over the chibis, yours patting the head of the half-lucid little Jab on your lap.

"Well, duh! I do it for attention too."

Rudo

✦ ── This sweet little thing is more precious than him to 3R, seriously. I mean, so are you, but the cuteness factor of chibi s/o is so high it should be illegal.

✦ ── And Rudo doesn't know how to handle that!!! It took him so long to adjust to chibi s/o because he kept running away a blushing mess.

✦ ── Very delicate with them. They can climb wherever they want on him or in his room. Except maybe the trash pile, because he's worried they may get hurt.

✦ ── Chibi Rudo also cannot cope with chibi s/o and faints the first few times they interact. Chibi s/o takes good care of him, and when he can handle their company, they are inseparable.

✦ ── The chibis usually sit together doing their own thing. Little Rudo is always showing off the things he can do with 3R in hopes of impressing chibi s/o.

"Oh my gosh, Rudo, look!" The two of you were chatting away when you spotted something on his desk.

Chibi Rudo was offering chibi s/o some flowers made out of metal scraps.

"I—uh, yeah, that's super cute." The tips of his ears were turning pink, still hiding a similar bouquet he had made for you behind his back.

Seeing chibi s/o graciously accept the gift with a kiss to chibi Rudo's cheek gave him all the confirmation he needed to know you'd like his gift, too.

Tamsy

✦ ── Having a portable s/o is such a delight. He finds them simply adorable, and makes every attempt to tease the two of you when he can. Especially on habits you and chibi you share.

✦ ── Tamsy doesn't feel the need to carry them with him, because he's often on missions in dangerous places. That being said, when he does carry them it's usually in his hand hidden under his sleeves.

✦ ── Really, though, he prefers when chibi s/o and chibi Tamsy are together. It's pretty much just him anyhow, and he has actual you to take care of as is.

✦ ── Chibi Tamsy is damn possessive and a tad mean about it. To the point where he sometimes ties one of his wrists to theirs with his thread so they can't wander away.

✦ ── They're still cute, though. Chibi Tamsy nods off a lot when chibi s/o plays with his hair, which they can do a lot more than you since chibi Tamsy always has his hair down.

"He's doing it again..." You and Tamsy had just returned to his room from the HQ library, catching chibi Tamsy right in the act.

Chibi s/o was trapped in a web of blue thread, wiggling in an attempt to free themselves.

Little Tamsy was standing in front of them, patting their head and shaking his head to get them to give up on escape.

"They're only playing." Tamsy dismissed it, earning a scoff.

"You wouldn't do that to me!"

"Wouldn't I?"

Zanka

✦ ── He keeps chibi s/o with him whenever possible. Partially to protect and partially for his own comfort (though he would NEVER admit to that, not even to himself).

✦ ── Melts pretty quickly when it comes to chibi s/o. If they ask for anything or tug on his sleeve, they have whatever it is they want and his attention a few moments later.

✦ ── Gets really proud whenever chibi s/o show shim affection or completes a task they were struggling to do. Hell yeah, you and mini you are both strong, capable, and his loving partner.

✦ ── Chibi Zanka likes training in front of chibi s/o to show off his moves. When they spar and s/o gets upset over not winning too many times in a row, he fakes a loss.

✦ ── Uses his mini Assistaff to trap chibi s/o when they try to get away from him or when Zanka tries to take them away. Fights with his whole soul to stay with them.

"Oh my, don't be rough Zanka." You scolded the small verison of your partner, who was patting the head of a trapped chibi s/o.

Begrudgingly he released them, hugging them to show he was behaving well. Chibi s/o seemed to forgive him immediately with a hug.

"Huh. Maybe I should start doing that to you." Zanka spun his Assistaff, casting you a cocky look.

"Do not!"

Zodyl

✦ ── Is it worrying giving the man who eats anything a bite-sized version of you? Yes, of course. But the good thing is chibi Zodyl is in more danger of being eaten than chibi s/o...

✦ ── He wouldn't, but he might pretend to if either of them acts up. It's probably one of the few jokes he'll actually chuckle at, even if it's his own.

✦ ── Observing is one of his favourite things to do. That's why he seems to enjoy watching chibi s/o do their little tasks or rest on him. Chibi Zodyl does the same thing, just watches.

✦ ── Chibi Zodyl is still a gentleman, though. He comforts chibi s/o if they ever get hurt or scared and walks with them whenever they start to wander too far.

✦ ── Sometimes you can catch them holding hands, which usually ends in Zodyl intertwining his fingers with yours. He wants to prove he can be affectionate, too.

You were watching longingly as the chibis, yours tugging chibi Zodyl along by the hand to explore more of the room full of things left behind by previous owners.

"What troubles you?" Your partner spoke up from next to you, also watching the chibis. They were rather entertaining.

Your lips pressed together, contemplating what to say.

You didn't need to explain yourself; he'd gotten an inkling after observing you for long enough. A moment later, your hand was pulled into his.

"Better?"

"Better."

The following days were hard on you.

Mornings started slow. Every movement felt as if you were wading through molasses. Small tasks that usually took a minute at best now seemed wholly impossible.

You were sitting at the desk in your fiancé's room, which displayed a mix of your skincare items and his hair products.

The radio beside you was on. Some variety of metal music was playing, but the sound was turned so low it sounded more like static. Your eyes glanced at the volume dial, noticing now the radio was off entirely. The noise persisted.

Were you just imagining it?

"Allow me." Cold, slender fingers caressed the bottom of your chin, pulling your head up to meet his pale eyes. Tamsy pulled the cotton pad from your hand. You made no fight to stop him.

Tapping the toner-soaked cotton along your face, he leaned in nice and close to ensure no spots were missed. You were so peculiar about your routine; he'd memorized it just from watching you over the years.

With his head tilted down, his long hair curtained on either side of you, brushing your ears.

Following the steps exactly as he recalled, he had you freshened up and your hair styled just as you like it in less time than it'd take you usually. Your favourite lip gloss was the final touch, which he leaned in to steal with a quick peck.

His lips pressed together, spreading the stolen lip gloss evenly.

"What shall we do today then, hm?" Tamsy stepped away to grab a claw clip, twisting the blond portion of his hair the clip and allowing the deep blue part to flow freely. "We can remain at HQ if you prefer, to give you time to breathe."

There was a lull in work, and anyone present at yesterday's battle had been given some time off to recuperate. This meant you two finally had a day off together, something that only occurred once in a blue moon.

"I'm going out today. I have to." Your voice was scratchy, forcing a slight cough to clear your throat.

"If you're up to it, then absolutely! We haven't had a date night in some time."

"No." Your soft-spoken denial was anything but harsh, though it still surprised him.

"No?" He cocked his head to the side.

"Sorry, Tamsy. But I have to go looking for Amo today. I'm not sure where I'll start or how long it might take, but I'm going searching for her." You'd finally stood from the chair, rolling your shoulders back in an attempt to kickstart your body into motion.

"Sitting around feeling like shit won't help anyone find her. Besides, I need to set an example for Rudo. He's probably worried sick, and I want him to know he isn't alone. That we'll find her." There was a slight shake to your voice caused by the creeping anxiety of failure.

"I see." His head dipped for a moment; the flicker of disappointment was missed with your back turned to get to the door.

"Ah, just a moment! Your choker." He had just put his on, holding yours out the same way he had the day prior. You turned quickly, realizing you'd nearly forgotten it again. "Call me if you need any help. I'll see what I can do about Amo."

It was you who leaned in this time, stealing a kiss while he clipped the choker around your neck.

"Thank you, Tamsy. I don't know what I would do without you."

"Don't say that; you are perfectly capable." Overly empathetic, clumsy, and a bit ditzy perhaps. But you were still smarter than most. You managed to impede his plans without knowing countless times due to your intellect.

The smile you offered was sad, but still an improvement.

He waved you off, closing the door behind you to get ready for the day.

Refusing to let your emotions get in the way of your search, you made haste to your room to finish freshening up. While your usual uniform was still with Tamsy, you had a much cleaner spare that'd suit you better for a fact-finding mission.

Much like you had told your partner, you weren't sure where to start. The first step was probably checking out the town closest to Penta, so you'd want to be as presentable as possible for the sake of those you'd be questioning.

The moment you opened your door to leave, you were nearly hit in the face by a gloved hand.

"Oh! Hello!" You'd leaned back to avoid the fist, straightening up when Rudo took a panicked step back and bumped into Enjin.

"Oh—sorry. We were just, uh…" The younger boy stammered, noticing you were already in uniform. "Are you already being sent on a mission?"

"No! God no, just thought I would start the search for Amo."

"Perfect! Because Rudo and I were just about to do the same. Thought we'd ask for your help, since we could use a healer." Enjin put a hand on Rudo's shoulder, presumably in some manner of reassurance.

Once the two had stepped back, you closed your door behind you to join them in the hall.

"Absolutely, I would love to join your mission. But could I ask why you aren't taking Akuta's healer?" Following their lead, the three of you began walking down the hall towards the elevator.

"Eishia has her hands full with Zanka." Enjin stated with the shrug of his shoulders, hitting the elevator call button. Rudo cleared his throat.

"And I thought if we found Amo, it might ease her to see you again." The boy spoke in a hushed tone, a tad embarrassed to admit it.

"That is very thoughtful, Rudo. I think you're right." You turned your head to smile at him, which resulted in him immediately looking away.

It was then you got the opportunity to notice what he was carrying in his other arm.

"Rudo, are you really planning to haul that around all day?" The box television was larger than his head and likely twice as heavy.

The elevator doors slid open with a ding.

"That's what I was saying! It's giant; just leave it here. No way you think you can lug it around in a fight!"

"Of course I can!"

There was one person in the elevator, who seemed more than delighted at the sight of the three of you.

"'Morning," Enjin grumbled, still not ready to give up on his fight with Rudo.

"Good morning. Heading out?" Tamsy gave the three of you his full attention, though he was mostly interested in you

"Yeah, we're taking a quick trip over to see the information broker." Rudo avoided eye contact with the cleaner, shuffling the TV in his hands to a more comfortable hold.

"What…?"

"To get a hint about where to find the Watchman series and Amo," the boy clarified.

"Right…since we don't seem to have any clues." Tamsy nodded thoughtfully.

"So we're going to be out for a few days. You'll have to do enough work for all of us." Enjin tugged on the shoulder of the younger boy, keen on ending the conversation.

"All right, all right. Except I'm taking the day off today." He cocked his head to the side, trying to keep things lighthearted.

"Come on, Rudo, you're leaving that here." The boy only groaned in reply, conceding to the demand of his team lead.

"You go ahead to the garage. Tell everyone we'll be down in a minute." Enjin nudged you with his boot. "Riyo and the others should be down there already."

"Kay! Don't take too long." Entering the elevator, you made yourself comfortable at Tamsy's side.

He had already reached forward to press the floor you were headed to.

"Long time no see, darling." The tone was personal, head bowed so the soft-spoken words made it directly to your ear.

Your hum of approval was just a bonus to the little smile his words brought to your face.

"Rudo." Before the doors could close, he took the chance to call out to the retreating cleaner. "I hope you find your friend."

Rudo looked over his shoulder, his red eyes more striking than you recall.

"I will find her. You can bet on it."

The doors shut, leaving you alone with your partner.

Stealing a glance, warmth bloomed behind your cheeks. He looked lovely with the casual hairdo and comfortable clothes. Going out to find Amo was an absolute necessity for you right now, though a nice day off lounging with him sounded like heaven.

"You look really pretty." Your attempt to hide the compliment with your mumbling didn't work as you intended, seeing as he cast you an amused look.

"Thank you for noticing, because I only aim to please you." Somehow he'd always manage to flip your compliments back at you.

Your dramatic sigh came out shaky, no thanks to the laughter you were attempting to mask.

The doors slid open as another stop was reached, this time the ground floor.

"I'm headed to town so I should ask: would you like anything?"

You gave pause, pondering if you needed anything urgent. Nothing came to mind.

"Why not bring something sweet home, something we can share?" It'd be nice to have a treat to come home to, especially after whatever today may have in store for you.

Tamsy tilted his head, humming in contemplation before a chuckle fell past his lips.

"Hm, how about cake?" The smile he offered seemed to hide something, as if his amusement was from a joke you weren't in on.

Or you were just on edge and imagining things.

"Sounds amazing!"

One quick hug goodbye, and he was on his way, offering a final wave as the elevator doors shut behind him.

At least one of you was going to be relaxing in some shape or form.

You hoped he made the most of his day.

Hectic was one of many words you may have used to describe the meeting with the information broker. There were many fights, many surprises, and dangers beyond your comprehension.

People were hurt, including you.

Your instrument was spread thin, used to stabilize Riyo so Eishia could finish treatment and stop everyone's bleeding.

Unfortunately you weren't spared any harm, having gotten your knee dislocated and several scrapes when you were thrown by the King of Tori. Thankfully you were immediate in self-treating and could still walk, though only with the help of the rebar you were using to support your own weight.

From what you could gather, Zodyl had been chased off, Rudo got one of his questions answered, and now everyone was on the way to the supposed location of Amo.

You'd insisted on going despite your injury. Eishia was all the way at the south branch, and you were the best healer to have in the event Amo needed treatment.

It was right outside of a city, a lone trapdoor surrounded by trash and rubble.

The pit in your stomach felt deeper than whatever trench the trash beasts crawled from.

She was kept all the way out here where no one could have guessed her location… What if the information broker hadn't known? How much longer would it have taken to find her? Would you have found her before it was too late?

"You all made it back sooner than I expected." The familiar voice snapped you out of your spiralling thoughts.

Looking to the origin of the voice, you saw your partner approaching. Behind him were the large walls of the nearest city, spaced by around a kilometre of finely worn waste.

"…Yeah…The south branch gave us a ride back." Rudo's voice held a hint of confusion.

"That makes sense. I'm glad to see you all have so much pep left in you. Other than Riyo, of course." Tamsy found himself comfortable at your side, sparing a glance at your braced leg and makeshift crutch.

"…Why are you suddenly coming along?" The young boy wasn't prepared to let his guard down, especially not during such a tense moment.

"To fill in for Riyo. Besides, I figured another familiar face would help Amo feel better." That seemed to ease Rudo's concerns enough, and he turned back to the trapdoor.

You leaned ever so slightly in his direction, shoulder bumping into Tamsy's arm.

Moments later you felt the snaking thread of his Tokushin wrap itself around your makeshift knee brace. The relief was instant, tightening just right to take the pressure off your joint.

"Thank you…" Your voice was breathy with newfound comfort.

Unlike the torn pieces of cloth you had used, his threads were 'alive' and could adapt to your movement. The perfect medical tool.

"I'll go in first." While you had tuned out of the conversation, Tamsy brought you right back into it. "The person who took her might still be there. And I'm sure you're all tired from your trip to No Man's Land."

Everyone else was silent. It made sense to let the person with the most energy go first, especially if any surprise attacks occurred.

"No, I'm going first." Rudo reached for the trapdoor, taking the lead. "If this kidnapper is a person, I just have to punch him."

Tamsy took that as a signal to step back. This was no time to argue. Rudo was clearly serious about his commitment to Amo.

Everyone shuffled into the door, Tamsy being the last, right behind you. You were practically waddling down the stairs, a dangerous balancing act considering the open chasm next to you and lack of railing.

Your partner took notice, linking arms with you to help you down each step. He seemed far more confident about the steps, walking down them without watching his own feet.

It gave him time to look at you. Really look at you. The way your eyes watched the stairs and glanced up every other step. The way you chewed on the inside of your cheek. How it seemed hard for you to swallow.

All telltale signs of stress.

Rudo was the first to get to the bottom, looking out at the hallway before him. It was surprisingly well-lit, with lanterns hanging every few meters.

At the very end there was a cell, a hunched figure chained to the stone wall behind them.

"…Amo…?" Rudo's voice cracked, taking in the horrific sight of the worn-out girl.

"Ah…Aahh…I always knew… You would come for me…Rudo…"

The gate was lifted faster than you could process your own movements, rushing in alongside Rudo with your instrument clutched in hand. The rebar you were using was dropped, the rush of pain in your knee ignored in favour of getting to Amo faster.

Someone removed the shackles by force, snapped through to let her rest against Rudo. You sat in front of them, allowing him to hold her while you activated your instrument and got to work.

A lot of the injury was focused on her neck and head. If you had to guess, her kidnapper hit her head to daze her and strangled her unconscious.

"Who would do such a thing? To such a young girl, no less?" Your voice was a whisper, meant mostly for yourself, as you used your syringe tool to administer a strong pain reliever. Her body relaxed further into Rudo's arms, a lack of tears evidence of how dehydrated she was.

"I'm sorry, Miss Healer. Amo promised to call you…" Her voice was hoarse, her apologetic tone bringing tears to your eyes.

"Please don't say that, Amo. It's my fault for leaving you alone there. I knew it wasn't a good idea, and I still left…" Your hands pressed a soft pink bandage to her neck, watching it glow into her skin until disappearing along with the harsh bruising.

A shadow fell over you, the tasselled ends of Tamsy's sleeves brushing against your back.

Amo's eyes widened, roused from her position against Rudo.

"…Ah…Y—you…! You came to rescue me, too…"

"No? I only came here to give you these. You need them, don't you?" His slender hand came into view, dangling Amo's boots between the two of you. It blocked your vision of the girl.

"…Mm-hm…Mm-hm. Thank you…" Her hands reached out, hugging the boots to her chest.

With immediate first aid applied and no evidence of the kidnapper being anywhere in sight, everyone found their way out of the cellar. Getting Amo to headquarters was the new objective.

Thankfully the ride itself was without interruption. Amo sat in the middle between yourself and Tomme, who was helping her take in liquid and some form of nutrition. You kept yourself busy cleaning her up using your water bottle and a clean cloth from your bag.

She fell asleep soon after, curled up with her head on your lap. Usually you'd urge seatbelt usage, but now was far from the time. She was exhausted, and you weren't about to deny her rest.

Arriving at HQ, many parted to head for the dining hall or their rooms to clean up. Enjin had to practically drag Rudo to his room, his exhaustion having caught up to him.

You were keen on following Amo to the infirmary.

A voice came from right under the door to Amo's room, already too deep into pushing the door open to stop.

"I'm going to have to kill somebody…"

Tamsy was sitting on a stool adjacent to Amo's bed, a thumb holding up his head.

"What did you just say?"

His eyes widened for a fraction of a second, too quick to catch, before relaxing into his usual half-lidded stare.

"Hm?" He stood from the stool, straightening his posture.

"You said you may have to kill somebody. Who?"

Tamsy tilted his head to the side, as if the answer were obvious. When you didn't seem to follow, he gestured to the girl on the bed.

"Can you blame me? Look at what they did to our dear Amo…" Though his voice carried the same relaxed tone you were used to, it wavered ever so slightly at the end. You could have sworn the corner of his lips curled up, though it was gone by the time you blinked.

You approached the bed, nearing the head of it to look over the face of the sleeping girl. Every step you took was uneven, limping anytime you had to put pressure on your bad knee.

The back of your hand ghosted up the side of her cheek, brushing some of the hair from her face.

"It's unforgivable." Her lips were dried out, cheeks sunken from days without eating.

Reaching into your pocket, you pulled out your favourite lip gloss, squeezing some onto a finger and gently applying it to her lips. She deserved every ounce of comfort you could offer.

"I'm not sure what I'm feeling right now. Rage? Regret? I know I want revenge." It was unlike you to be so angry, the poison in your words a surprise to both yourself and your fiancé.

"You shouldn't dwell on these things right now; you need rest." His hand had grabbed your wrist, pulling you away from the bed by a few steps. You could feel the cold metal of his ring on your skin.

"But she needs—"

"Rest and time. You've done what you can to heal her. I heard Eishia will be here early tomorrow to help."

"…I don't know if I can leave her alone right now." There it was, the full truth slipping from you. It wasn't a secret, but you'd been hiding your concern for the girl through medical excuses.

Tamsy hummed, acknowledging your concern.

"I'll stay with her until you return, then." He was leading you to the door, refusing to let you turn back.

"Really? You'd skip out on sleep for me?" It was your turn to be surprised, looking him over to make sure he wasn't some weird doppelganger.

"Of course I would!" He chuckled, leaning in to brush his lips against your temple in a tender kiss. "I made a promise to care for you, didn't I?"

He raised your hand, fingers still intertwined with his. Your matching ring was in view, showing itself off as evidence of his claim.

"Go rest. I'll be right here when you wake up."

The next morning came painfully slow. The agony of your dislocated knee kept waking you up anytime you turned wrong, while anxieties about Amo made you nauseous enough to keep you from falling back asleep.

You got a few hours in, at the very least.

It was around six in the morning when you heard a knock at your door.

"Rudo…?" He was still in his sleepwear, though you were no better dressed. You were still in the first set of comfy clothes you found when you got back.

He was holding a little potted flower in his hands, a fake, though realistic enough to pass as the genuine thing.

"Hey, uh, I know it's early, but…could you come to see Amo with me?" He was shuffling from foot to foot, gaze averted towards the ground.

"Of course I can! Just give me one moment." You snapped your choker on, slipping on some shoes before joining Rudo in the hall.

He must have been especially nervous if he was asking for your company. It was hard seeing someone you care about in such rough shape, especially at such a young age. Both he and Amo had been through so much in so little time; it broke your heart to pieces.

The two of you walked in silence, the halls empty as everyone slept off the previous day.

"I don't know what to say to her yet." Rudo broke the quiet atmosphere, staring down at the artificial flower.

"That's okay, I'm sure she'll probably feel the same. And so will I." You held the door to the medical ward open for him, catching the surprised glance he threw your way.

"Really? I thought adults were supposed to know these kinds of things…" The more he said, the more he began to mumble, realizing how silly it sounded.

"Some of us, maybe. But some learn things later than others. There's no race to see who can face the most hardships first." The both of you stopped in front of the door to Amo's room. You let him reach for the handle.

"Whenever you're ready. There's no rush."

Rudo took your words to heart, stilling himself to slow his breathing. It took a minute, but when his heart had calmed, he pushed the door open.

The many windows in the room filled it with the ambient light of the early morning sky. It was halfway between light and dark, making it easy to see her resting on the bed. She was still asleep.

Tamsy still sat next to her bed, one of the many medical books in hand. He closed it and stood the moment the two of you arrived. Rudo passed him, rushing to be at Amo's side.

You remained outside the doorway, keeping an eye on Tamsy as he approached.

"You aren't coming in?" He set the book on one of the cabinets by the door.

"Let's give him some time." You were looking past his shoulder at Rudo, who had put the flower on the table beside Amo. Awake or not, there were probably things he needed to say to her.

Tamsy closed the door behind him with a gentle click, leaning against it with a hum.

You were still putting the majority of pressure on one foot. Supposing he had just seen you five hours ago, it wasn't likely that you'd slept enough to replenish your energy and put your instrument to use.

The faint smile he always kept fell into a slight frown.

"You of all people should know not to be walking on that leg right now."

As per your wishes, he had kept an eye on Amo all evening. It had been boring as all hell, but he'd taken the time to read up on treatment of dislocated limbs just in case.

"It's nothing. I was hoping to have Eishia help me with it. Child's Play is better suited for immediate first aid, anyhow." You leaned against the wall next to the door, letting your head fall back to rest against it.

"That doesn't mean you should be making it worse." He was staring you down, hard, and you didn't have to see it to feel it.

A sigh passed through your lips.

"You're right, and I'm sorry for making you worry. But these are very special circumstances. We won't know what they may have done to Amo until she wakes up. So…I want to be there for her as much as I can." Your hands fidgeted with your ring.

"You aren't alone in this. We'll all be working hard to help Amo, so don't take all that responsibility head-on." His voice was a steady calm that you needed, easing your rushing thoughts.

"Thank you, Tams—" Muffled shouts came from the door he leaned against, cutting you off.

Immediately, your partner opened the door to check on the two inside.

Rudo was standing, clinging to Amo's hand with both of his. She was talking to him, though her voice was far too soft for you to pick up on what exactly was being said.

The tension you felt left easily, knowing nothing was wrong. Amo waking up must have startled Rudo, judging by his flustered look.

Tamsy was silently approaching them, so you limped after him.

"Tamsy, wait...! They're probably talking about something personal…!" You whisper-yelled after your partner. He kept walking as if he hadn't heard you, causing you to scoff.

Such a stubborn man.

"Who in the world could have possibly done such a thing?" Both heads turned to you and Tamsy. How the both of you had gone unnoticed by the other two until now, you weren't certain.

"WAAAHH!!! WHEN DID YOU TWO GET HERE?!!" Rudo nearly jumped out of his own skin, causing you and Amo to flinch. Tamsy was entirely unaffected.

"You were so into each other that you didn't notice us coming? Hmm, interesting. You are a rascal, Rudo."

"I AM NOT!!!!" Rudo pulled his hands away from Amo, the tips of his ears blushing a soft pink shade. You couldn't help but chuckle at how easy he was to fluster.

Tamsy knelt at the side of the bed, while you moved past him closer to her head. Seeing her awake was a huge relief.

"Amo, my dear." His pale eyes followed your hands as you gently brushed her hair. "Who locked you up in that horrible place? If we have some identifying features, we should be able to get the hell guard to look for them."

"Identifying…features…" Amo looked at Tamsy, then trailed her eyes up to you. Your worried smile made her feel warm inside her heart. " The person who locked me up was…a long-haired woman…"

"…Is that all…?" Rudo pressed on.

"Amo can't remember. She remembers everything that happened to her, but not who did it. That part is a blur." She seemed frustrated with her own lack of memories.

You continued to brush your fingers through her hair, feeling her lean into the gentle touches.

"That makes sense." His statement surprised the three of you, each turning to the blond man.

"What?" Rudo couldn't help but raise his voice slightly. No, it didn't make any sense at all!

You pondered for a moment before looking back to Amo.

"I don't study these things as much as Eishia might, but…malnutrition and trauma can affect memory. Not only is it hard to retrieve memories, but you may also have a hard time distinguishing reality from…anything else."

Tamsy's smile seemed to deepen. You were making this far too easy for him.

"I'm sure you'll remember once you've regained your strength." He added, standing back up from the side of the bed with the stretch of his legs.

"…Okay…" Amo let her eyes close again, trying to fight the sting from how dried-out they were.

Noticing her trouble, you made your way to one of the shelves of supplies, looking out from some eye drops while the other two spoke.

They spoke about something relating to the information broker and the Watchman series, though you droned most of it out.

"Just blink really fast for me, okay?" With the little bottle in hand, you administered some of the eye drops along the corners of her eyes.

Amo did as you asked, though it came naturally as her body adjusted to the strange feeling in her eyes. A few moments later she was blinking normally, comfort visible in the way her face relaxed.

"Can Amo have more of that nice-smelling stuff you put on her lips?" Her hand reached from the bed to feel her mouth. "It felt really nice."

"Nice smelling…Oh! You mean my lip gloss? Of course…!" Reaching for your pocket, you pulled out the same tube. With a small amount on your finger, you urged her to part her lips so you could apply it for her.

"You know, I always keep this one on me for emergencies. You never know when you'll have a special someone to kiss." Your finger rubbed in a small circular motion until it was evenly applied, hearing her breathing steady.

"Miss Healer, Amo thinks your special mister is lucky to have you." Her words grew quieter, and you watched as her eyelids fluttered closed. "Because you take really good care of people."

You giggled, putting the lip gloss away.

"Only those deserving of my love and care. Like you, Amo." When you looked back at her, you were quick to realize she had already fallen asleep.

The two were still chattering behind you when you turned around to usher them out.

"Shhh…Amo fell asleep. Let's give her some peace and quiet."

"Hey, can I talk to you real quick?" Tomme knocked on the door to your room. It was wide open, which you did to encourage visits.

You were at the little round bistro table, closing the journal you'd just been scribbling in to give her your attention. She was waiting in the doorway.

In one arm, clutched to her chest, was her notebook.

"Please, come in. You can shut the door behind you." Judging by the slightly stressed look she had, you expected she may want privacy.

Tomme did exactly that, locking the door behind her and making her way over to you. When you gestured to the chair across the table, she took her seat.

"It's about the mission a few days ago…" The low voice she spoke in was unlike the usual conversations you had with her. Tomme was one of your closest friends in the cleaners, someone you trusted nearly anything to.

Typically you met for coffee and to gossip.

Instead, this meeting carried a cloud of concern with it.

"I heard Follo got hurt pretty badly, but he's a giver now! He must be pretty happy about that." The supporter had mentioned his interest in having a vital instrument to you before; you were certain that he was probably ready to jump out of recovery and into training.

Tomme's neutral expression shifted into a careful smile.

"Yeah, he's going to be more than okay. But…" She took a deep breath in, the gentle scent of your room working wonders on her. "I actually wanted to talk to you about Tamsy."

That caught your interest on a more intimate level. You leaned forward in your seat, twirling your pen between thumb and pointer.

"I just don't want you to think I'm bad-mouthing your fiancé. You're my closest friend, and I just—I just trust you to help me figure this out." She was speaking cryptically, which only raised more concern.

"If you're worried I'll be upset, I won't. This stays between us, Tomme." You reached across the table, resting your hand on one of hers.

She nodded with an exhale, allowing her body to deflate and relax into the atmosphere of your room.

"While the fight was going on—the one between Rudo and Follo—it didn't seem like Tamsy was going to do anything." She paused to meet your eyes, which she was relieved held no judgement of her. "At first I figured he was letting them work it out on their own, you know, boys will be boys and all that."

"But when things got dangerous and Follo fell off the cliff, he didn't…didn't do anything. He just stood there and watched." Her hand had moved to hold yours, to which you responded with a reassuring squeeze.

There was a distant look in her eyes, as if she were searching for an answer to her worries.

"I've seen him in battle so many times, I know what he's capable of. And yet he claimed he couldn't hold off the trash beast."

"He said that? "It didn't sound anything like him.

"Yeah, I wrote it down because…well, I don't know why. I just felt like the whole situation was weird, and I didn't want to forget anything." She let go of your hand to reach for her notebook, flipping it to the page that contained the mission notes.

You'd seen her notes many times before. Tomme was exceptionally thorough, the perfect person for record keeping. You knew her well enough to know she would never lie in them, or to you. It was always the hard truth.

Just as she'd said, she had noted Tamsy's exact words: 'Honestly, I'm not sure how long I can hold it off with my string.'

"But why would he …"

"That's exactly why I came to you. I don't get why he would lie when lives are at stake. Sure, he was there to supervise Rudo on his first mission, but isn't that exactly why he should have stepped in?" She fell back into the chair, arms hanging at her sides.

"I just hoped you'd have a better explanation for his actions than me. I trusted Tamsy as apart of the team, but now I'm worried he didn't care enough to end the fight."

You set the notebook down on the table, frozen in place as you processed the information.

"I can't say I have an answer. I wish I knew more, but this is all news to me." Tomme noticed the frown on your face and stood from the table. You stood to meet her, pulling one another into a hug.

"I'll talk to him about it, though. I'm sure he has a good reason." You added, chin resting on her shoulder.

"Thank you for hearing me out. You're a good person, through and through." She broke from the hug, though her hands still rested on your shoulders. "Whatever happens, you can always come to me, okay?"

"Thank you, Tomme. I will."

The backyard of the cleaner HQ was lively.

What few trees could still manage to survive on the ground were scattered across the edges, providing a natural perimeter. There was a small garden next to the bench you sat on, which belonged to Delmon.

The empty stretch in the middle had the majority of Team Child and Team Akuta. Most were playing a game of soccer with pylons to mark the nets. Others, such as Zanka, were using the spare space to train.

"Lovely day, isn't it?" The voice behind you caused you a slight jump, having caught you off guard.

"Tamsy." You put your hand over your heart, feeling your racing pulse while your partner let out a chuckle.

"Sorry, dear. It wasn't my intention to startle you." He took the spot next to you on the bench, leaning into the back support. "Though, you've been awfully on edge as of late."

It was near impossible to hide anything from Tamsy.

Ever since your conversation with Tomme, you'd been worried he might just find a way to read your mind. It left you jumpy; that much was certain.

"I suppose I have…" You were playing with the engagement ring you wore, using it to distract yourself from just how anxious you were.

"I don't suppose that's why you asked me to meet you here?" He was looking out at the others as they played their game, though his head had tilted ever so slightly towards you.

You swallowed the lump in your throat, deciding it was now or never.

"Why didn't you step in during the mission? Follo could have died." You turned your head towards him, taking in his reaction.

He was as calm as ever.

"I trusted Rudo would save him, and I had both supporters and civilians to protect."

"Then why say you couldn't hold it back? Why lie?" You stood up abruptly, facing him directly. His hand twitched, eyes still avoiding your gaze.

"We weren't certain of its main body yet; I couldn't rush in—"

"You could have immobilized it, or called for backup, or any number of things." You couldn't hold your thoughts back before they turned to words.

"The way Amo looks at you, how your days coincided with Rudo's arrival and the majority of Amo's disappearance, and what you said in the hospital room about needing to kill someone." Your voice did not rise, but the words felt heavier.

A moment passed, allowing you to catch your breath from the long-winded list.

"Please, Tamsy. Tell me what's going on. What have you been doing?"

You finished with a sharp exhale, taking a good look at his face. His eyes finally met yours.

But his silence stretched.

"Did you ask to meet in public on purpose?" He stood slowly, closing the space between you two to look down into your eyes. "Were you scared of what I would do if we were alone right now?"

The avoidance of your question was an answer in and of itself. An admittance of some kind of guilt. You tried to step away, but his hand caught your wrist and pulled it behind his back so you'd be forced against his chest.

His pale eyes of aureate held a depth to them you hadn't noticed before. Now they seemed more like a closed door than the beautiful display you'd always thought they were.

"You haven't started making a scene, which tells me you love me enough to trust I have some kind of explanation." He was right. Of course he was. You slowly nodded, to which he freed your wrist.

"I do." It came out breathy, quieter than your previous words full of confidence.

You didn't run, instead offering your hand.

"If you come with me to see Semiu, you can tell us everything, and she can confirm it."

His hand landed in yours, interlocking your fingers with his.

"If that is what it takes, then I will do it." His words brought a satisfied smile to your face, all worries starting to simmer away.

"Though, would you mind if we stop at my room first? There's something I'll need."

The straining creak of navy ropes contrasted the gentle tune playing on the radio, helping keep the sound hidden.

Tamsy stepped below the web of his making, closing the tome in his hand with a hefty 'thump.' His thumb brushed along the metal ring embedded in its cover, a reminder of the power that he held.

Strung up in its hold was the limp body of his fiancée.

"How is it we keep finding ourselves here?" The golden glow of his eyes highlighted the long strands of blond hair framing his face.

He pushed the hair from your eyes, tucking it behind one of your ears to get a better look at your peaceful expression.

"Seventh time's the charm, my love." The spell had rendered you unconscious, likely the result of your brain trying to make sense of all the missing memories from the most recent removal.

He wondered what it'd look like in your mind, all the holes he'd made that it had to patch up. Layer after layer from every failed attempt you made that he had to fix.

"Maybe this time you'll out me. Come on, don't give up." His voice lowered to a light whisper, pressing a kiss to your temple. He dragged his lips down, peppering kisses along the side of your face to your jaw until parting.

His gaze shifted to your wrist, where the friendship bracelet Tomme had given you remained. He would have to do something about her; she kept getting in the way.

"No help from others this time, though. That's cheating."

Author's Note ── Kind of poured my heart and soul into this bad boy, ngl! I do hope this continuation satiates your desire, dear readers 🖤

"Okay! Now it's Amo's turn to do yours!"

Enjin

✦ ── If he's the shitty adoptive father doing his best, you're the perfect image of a caring mother who can't seem to fail. Honestly, he's envious of how much the others respect you. Why don't they treat him that way? Damn brats.

✦ ── But all that jealousy easily turns to pride because you're his partner. His amazing, insanely talented, and wonderfully beloved partner. Damn right everyone likes you!

✦ ── Seeing you all cutesy with the kids, especially those on Akuta, makes him melt. They all trust you a lot, and you care for them in ways he isn't really sure how to provide—mainly emotionally.

✦ ── Does it worry him that you own apart of the Watchman series and he still doesn't know what it does? Yes. But he trusts you with its power, whatever that may be.

✦ ── When he does find out your instrument allows you to manipulate and sway people, he is a bit uncomfortable with the idea. But after seeing it in use, at his request, he understands you would never abuse its power. Still, he urges you to rely on it less. You're good at what you do without it, anyway.

"Tch. Damn brats." Enjin scoffed under his breath, watching as Riyo and Rudo walked away from you. They'd interrupted your date just to see you and didn't so much as spare him a glance.

But seeing you so giddy, even after they left, made him forget any frustration bubbling up.

His frown turned to a grin when you shot him a look, scratching the back of his head. Shame? Nah. He wasn't afraid to let you know it bothered him.

"I'm locking the damn door. No more interruptions."

Rudo

✦ ── Any act of affection you show him overwhelms him. From anything small, like bringing him snacks when he hasn't eaten yet, to washing his gloves for him so it doesn't hurt as much, it all leaves him speechless.

✦ ── Lashes out at pretty much everyone except for you. More often than not he's staring at the floor and mumbling when you talk to him because he's worried he might scare you away.

✦ ── But he warms up eventually the more you talk him into it. He's more than willing to talk about his missions with you and goes to you for advice on reaching out to others a lot. When he isn't sure what to say to someone, he tries to think of what you'd say.

✦ ── You having apart of the series is both an opportunity for him to learn something about his own gloves and to have someone who can actually guide him through their use. He's really thankful he can go to you for help understanding the series—even if your knowledge is limited, too.

✦ ── Never suspects you might be manipulating others, and wouldn't believe anyone who claimed it. He dismisses those things quickly. They're just upset that you're well-liked and give such amazing advice.

"Thanks again. Y'know, for encouraging me to talk to them about it." Rudo had caught you in the hall and was now helping carry some of the books you were returning to the library of HQ.

Helping you, especially with stuff like carrying heavy things, made him feel stronger.

Even after you'd finished dropping everything off and began your next task, he stuck by your side. Mostly silent, listening to you talk to others and fidgeting with his gloves.

Words weren't needed. You'd look back at him like you expected him to be following you, and that was all the confirmation he needed to know you weren't annoyed by it.

Tamsy

✦ ── Your constant doting on others is certainly a draining task, and yet it never seems to affect you. For that, Tamsy is impressed. Though he doesn't much appreciate how you undo a lot of his work on Rudo (who he now tries to keep away from you whenever possible).

✦ ── When it's aimed at him, however? Oh, does he ever melt. Being the centre of your attention is an honour. He doesn't openly flaunt that he is your one and only, but he does act pretty smug about it when it comes up.

✦ ── Especially enjoys how much intel on others you have. You don't often share anything overly sensitive with him, but he still learns a lot about the other Cleaners from you, especially those that don't like him as much.

✦ ── Your vital instrument being among the Watchmen series is certainly a shock. Since you keep it a secret and only tell him, he promises not to share that information. He's just glad you own it, of all people.

✦ ── You? Manipulating? Of course, he knew all along! But you do it out of love and care, which he understands. Though he knows you have nothing insidious to hide. It's clear you genuinely want the best for others.

"Would you like a hand with that?" He seemed to magically appear at your side whenever you needed him, anticipating your needs before you.

The beads wrapped around your waist several times over kept tangling and snagging on your shirt, which made it much too obvious you were wearing them to begin with.

The watchman logo painted on the inside of every tiny little bead wasn't too obvious, but you rather keep it hidden than not.

His hand got to work, plenty skilled with detangling his own yarn. The blond took his time on purpose, allowing his hands to graze your skin more than needed.

"There we go, all better." You were always so busy caring for others; it was the least he could do considering what you'd sacrifice for him.

Zodyl

✦ ── You are total opposites. His stoic, almost absent-minded nature contradicts your open, engaged self. But that is why he has you on the Raiders; you supply to the team what he cannot.

✦ ── Be gentle with him all you like. He doesn't outwardly respond to a lot of it, but that is evidence enough that he enjoys it. He lets you touch his hair, hell, even his jacket, without a word or movement of complaint.

✦ ── He does think you are a bit too nurturing to the softer souls, such as Fu. If it weren't for you, he'd throw the kid into more head-on danger to try and scare him into action. Regardless, your methods may be slow, but they are still effective.

✦ ── Of course you have a piece of the Watchmen series; it was one of the many reasons he sought you out. It's also what allows you to get close to him in the first place. He needs you for his experiments, and now he's learned to need you for purely selfish reasons.

✦ ── Manipulate away. He had an inkling you were doing it, but he never bothered to give it much thought. Your methods support the Raiders and him, so why would it matter how you do it?

"What are you doing?" His lulled voice broke the silence, though he didn't move a muscle and kept his eyes trained forwards.

All he caught was your sheepish smile and shrug from the corner of his eye. You were adjusting the ties around his jacket sleeves. Admittedly, it felt a lot more comfortable.

When you mumbled something about his awful blood circulation, he looked away.

"It feels better, yes."

Author's Note ── 'Tamsy if possible' ALWAYS. ALWAYS POSSIBLE. I LOVE HIM.

Thank you for requesting! I hope this suited what you were looking for <3 I think you really picked up on what I write best; this is way up my alley!