#davelog

DAVE: -dave hasn't been able to forget about the night before and the girl they thankfully rescued. a part of him was nervous that the rest of the crew would see her as some sort of a threat, but with how they've taken care of her, it seems like she's still in good hands. he makes a point to come visit her today, just to see how she's doing, although he has no idea if she'll remember him or not. he walks into her room in the infirmary, careful as to not scare her- MEULIN: *she's awake, it seems, looking fairly tired and both ears covered in bandages that hide a lot of cotton. she's peering down at a sketchbook she's scribbling in, brows knit, but when she sees someone coming in, she looks up, a little more bright-eyed. she blinks a few times. she remembers him, the one that carried her out.* MEULIN: HELLO? DAVE: hey -he takes note of the bandages over her ears and realizes that she's not going to be able to hear him. so he comes up to her and sits in the chair next to the bed and waves just for good measure- MEULIN: *she sees his mouth open, and for a second she's uncertain, but when he sits and waves, she finally smiles. she's quickly flipping to a blank page in the sketchbook and offering it over to him.* DAVE: -he takes it gratefully and starts to write- sup -and then he shows it to her- MEULIN: UM... MEULIN: *boy, that's a loaded question.* MEULIN: JUST DRAWING! DAVE: -he takes the notebook and writes again before showing her- can i look MEULIN: YEAH!! MEULIN: MOST OF IT IS DIRK'S STUFF BUT THAT LAST PAGE IS MINE. MEULIN: *Meulin's page of drawings is mostly cute doodles of Dirk, Jake, and Roxy, though there is a doodle of Porrim, Eridan, and even Dave. She probably used Dirk's earlier drawings as references, with as relatively accurate as the doodles look. She's also made notes next to the shippy ones.* DAVE: -writes under his picture- its me -and shows it to her- MEULIN: H33H33 YES! I SAW DIRK'S DRAWING OF YOU SO... DAVE: -goes back to the blank pages where he writes- i draw too MEULIN: YOU DO??? MEULIN: OH I AM SURE YOU AND DIRK ARE SO MUCH BETTER THAN ME, I ONLY DOODLE SOMETIMES FUR FUN! DAVE: -he writes- oh im the best -and then proceeds to draw sweet bro and hella jeff in their trademark crude fashion before showing her- MEULIN: (^･o･^) MEULIN: I... MEULIN: LOVE IT. MEULIN: OMG. DAVE: -he actually smiles just a little bit for a split second and writes- yeah? im way better than dirk for sure MEULIN: H33H33H33!!! MEOWLY CRAP, YOU ARE LIKE... A TOTAL MEME AREN'T YOU??? I AM SENSING SO MUCH MEME RIGHT NOW. MEULIN: WHO EVEN ARE YOU, MYSTERIOUS MEME MAN? DAVE: -he writes- the mysterious meme man you guessed it MEULIN: *gaaaasp* MEULIN: I'VE B33N WAITING FUR THIS MOMENT... FOR ALL MY LIFE.... OH LOOOORD. DAVE: did you just bring phil collins into this -he writes- MEULIN: (=^･ω･^=) MEULIN: (=^･ω-^=) DAVE: -why is this cat girl so adorable. it's jade's fault he can appreciate the furries now. she keeps writing- damn i got blindsided there MEULIN: H33H33H33H33! MEULIN: WELL OKAY MYSTFURRY MEME MAN, I'M MEULIN. DAVE: dave -he writes- sup meulin MEULIN: *dave!!!! she will remember this.* UM... MEULIN: SO WHERE AM I? DAVE: -he writes on the notebook some more- in the infirmary of this ship that just causes a lot of problems for itself and everyone it comes into contact with and i guess we help some people too MEULIN: A SHIP? MEULIN: *she seems to recall mr. grumpfish talking about a ship* MEULIN: SO YOU ALL LIVE ON THIS SHIP? DAVE: yeah all of us do -he writes- were kinda stuck here MEULIN: *stuck? that's an interesting word choice* YOU HAVE TO WORK HERE? DAVE: well yeah theres just not any other option -he pauses in between writing before writing again- were all wanted criminals MEULIN: ... OH... MEULIN: *but they're not bad people. she knows that has to be true, even if this is all so much to take in at once. everything she knew, turning inside-out. but then, she had always had suspicions about the life she lived before. about the memory gaps, the odd situations and behavior. she just... hadn't wanted to see it. it was still hard to see. she's quiet for longer than she means to be.* MEULIN: WHY? DAVE: cuz we have a penchant for getting on the bad sides of the wrong people -that's putting it lightly, and he knows that- were not the bad guys tho MEULIN: *she would lower her voice, if she could properly monitor it. she tries, but it's more of an effort than a success.* IS IT BECAUSE OF THE WAR? DAVE: yeah its got somethin to do with that -he writes- a lot to do with it but what the fuck can you do MEULIN: YEAH... MEULIN: UM. MEULIN: AM I GOING TO STAY HERE? DAVE: -he shrugs as he writes- probably. would be kinda weird if you didnt MEULIN: WHAT DO YOU MEAN? MEULIN: AM I... A PRISONER? DAVE: nah i dont think so DAVE: youre actually just safer with us MEULIN: *she's quiet again for a long moment.* MEULIN: THAT'S GOOD. MEULIN: I DON'T REALLY... HAVE ANYWHERE ELSE TO GO. MEULIN: DIRK TOLD ME... HOHEPA IS IN YOUR CELLS. DAVE: who the fucks hohepa -he has no idea who this hohepa is- MEULIN: *MY TERRIBLE CLOWN (EX) BOYFRIEND JEEZ* MEULIN: I THINK... MEULIN: HE WAS THE ONE EVERYONE WAS FIGHTING. DAVE: oh yeah that guys a dick -he writes- the dickest of dicks MEULIN: .... MEULIN: YEAH. MEULIN: HE IS. DAVE: i didnt even know we still had him but ok thats cool got a crazy clown guy on our ship thats awesome we could use more of those MEULIN: *she just reads it quietly. she doesn't seem to respond much, though it's clear enough the life in her expression was fading quickly. she curled her knees up, nodding slightly.* DAVE: so how do you know that guy anyway -he notices her discomfort and decides to tone it down a bit- MEULIN: HE'S... MEULIN: HE WAS. MY MATESPRIT. DAVE: ...oh -he says that out loud before remembering that he needed to write- sorry MEULIN: DON'T BE. *she's not certain what else to say, because it's suddenly very hard not to think about it. if she thinks hard enough, she feels like she can remember why she feels so bruised and achy. why she must feel a lot of things. especially stupid.* DAVE: how are you doing with everything -he writes and then shows her, feeling a bit weird about getting so personal but feeling like maybe she needed someone to talk to- MEULIN: *he shows her that, and it's... not really a question she's been asked before. certainly not in the past couple sweeps. being asked now, at this strange moment when she happens to be at her most vulnerable, does something to her. she doesn't mean to, but while she's trying to think of what to say, she can't help it -- the tears well up to bursting, and she curls up more, burying her face in her knees.* DAVE: -oh fuck, well, dave strider, you did it now. you made a deaf girl cry. he can't communicate with her if she's not looking, so he has to get creative. creative means that he carefully just places a hand on her shoulder, not sure if this is helping or making things worse- MEULIN: *she's not sure, either -- it seems to make the crying worse, even if it makes her feel a little better. just to know that someone seems to care, even if she feels awful about burdening him, too. after a minute or so, she finally reaches up to rest a hand over his, and she's not sure whether it's for him or herself anymore.* DAVE: -what a moment to share with a total stranger. this is going far past his comfort zone with even close friends. so he's just going to sit there with his hand on her shoulder and her hand on his hand and wait- MEULIN: *it's a minute or two, but when that time passes she relaxes her hand on his and lets it fall, very aware of how strange this situation must be for both of them.* I'M SORRY. DAVE: theres nothin to be sorry about -and then he realizes that she still can't hear him or see him, so his hand remains where it is. he doesn't want her to think he's bothered by this or anything- MEULIN: *she finally looks up at him, and she looks just as worried as she sounded, though she's glad he isn't running off. after another moment that look fades.* YOU'RE NICE, DAVE. DAVE: -he finally has a chance to write stuff down- thanks so are you DAVE: youre gonna be ok here MEULIN: *she considers this for a moment and nods* MEULIN: CAN I LEAVE THE INFIRMARY? SOMETIME? DAVE: i dont think youll be here forever so probably -he writes and shows her- MEULIN: HAHA! OKAY. DAVE: -he draws a picture of sweet bro making what appears to be a hang loose sign- MEULIN: *omg* MEULIN: *casually just makes that back at him* MEULIN: (=^ω^=) DAVE: -WHY IS SHE SO CUTE THIS IS ILLEGAL- MEULIN: I'LL S33 YOU LATER THEN? DAVE: -he nods and gives her a thumbs up before standing- MEULIN: BYE DAVE! DAVE: -he gives her back her sketchbook after almost taking it with him and waves, heading out the door- MEULIN: *omg thank u*

JADE: *and here jade comes into the room, half-covering her face and obviously crying* DAVE: -dave retrieved dove and is just putting her in her crib when jade walks in, looking upset. his eyebrows crease slightly and he attempts to meet her halfway- hey DAVE: babe what happened JADE: *DANGIT. NOW SHE CRY MORE* JADE: *WHY MUST COMFORT MAKE HER SO EMOTIONAL* JADE: im ok *she tries, despite crying and obviously not quite being ok* DAVE: nah i dont think so -he reaches for her hand, only so he can lead her to sit on the bed if she lets him- JADE: *ok thats fair, and she's not going to fight him* JADE: *she is going to try to reach for some tissues tho* DAVE: -he's going to make that reach just a little bit easier by handing the box over to her as they sit down.- can you like DAVE: talk about it JADE: *after she smothers herself in about fifty tissues she can, or at least thats what her nod says as she pulls out a lot and blows her nose* JADE: *then she grabs some water from somewhere and sips it and clears her throat* JADE: i just JADE: tried to talk to your uncle DAVE: oh fuck what did he do now -he slides an arm around her in an attempt to be supportive- JADE: *she just leans into him a little* i was just trying to tell him... JADE: that it made me uncomfortable and he-- JADE: i just felt so stupid DAVE: what did he do babe JADE: he was just-- annoyed at first JADE: and i was trying JADE: i just got upset DAVE: i dont know why he was annoyed with you DAVE: its how you felt and not everyones gonna dig what he does he should know that JADE: it doesnt matter now JADE: he apologized JADE: i just... JADE: didnt want to get so upset DAVE: yeah i get that -he rubs her arm and leans his head againist hers- DAVE: dont wanna fall apart when you have a conversation like that JADE: it just JADE: all of it made me feel so JADE: crappy DAVE: well it kinda just sucks when you muster up all the shit you got to tell someone how something made you feel negatively i guess JADE: yeah JADE: *she turns into him more, nuzzling into the crook of his neck- DAVE: -he slides his other arm around her and holds her close- i hate gettin upset too but youre always the person i feel like i can be upset around so DAVE: you can be upset around me DAVE: idgaf JADE: yeah... *he's warm and she knows he's right. she always feels so safe here, loved, and it's seemed so instant for the longest time. anything that shook it only seemed to make it stronger in the end, to be back here with him, and it's a much better thought to focus on, one that fills her up with the same warmth he wraps her up in.* JADE: i love you DAVE: -he holds her tightly, running his fingers gently through her hair and kissing the top of her head- i love you too JADE: *she sighs just a little* youre so JADE: amazing DAVE: i dunno maybe im just real talented at fakin it JADE: no way DAVE: maybe you just taught me what to say DAVE: so the tables are turned DAVE: bam DAVE: and jade harley strider has been the amazing one all along JADE: *she's getting her arms around him, too, and she laughs* maybe youre just a butt DAVE: thats me DAVE: the butt DAVE: not just a butt but DAVE: the butt DAVE: the butt strider JADE: thats a catchy title JADE: but also sounds like a thing JADE: striding butts JADE: maybe striding on butts DAVE: this is the hottest conversation weve ever had JADE: oh yeah JADE: ;) DAVE: -he actually snorts and laughs- yeah baby JADE: yeaaaahahhhhh baby! *she says in the squart guy voice* DAVE: is it hot in here or just me DAVE: am i right JADE: now that turns mw on JADE: *ok shes laughing really hard now* DAVE: -he's laughing too, a lot- fuck were gonna keep dove up JADE: crap JADE: *soft wheezing* DAVE: -he kisses her cheek- shes gonna resent us for the rest of her life for this moment DAVE: the day her mom mimicked the squart guy JADE: i only wanted to make you squart across the room DAVE: fuck DAVE: -he's laughing again- JADE: nothin like havin the best oegamiom in the world every day ;) DAVE: oh my god stop JADE: *smooches his neck* cmon baby DAVE: fuck -he's still laughing this is so ridiculous but NECK KISSES- JADE: *giggletown has been entered* JADE: youre so cute DAVE: shit what alert the media JADE: i think the media already knows JADE: the whole ship knows now JADE: i didnt know you and karkat held hands DAVE: -suddenly stops laughing- why do we gotta DAVE: why do we gotta talk about that JADE: ohhhh dave JADE: you dont have to be embarrassed JADE: im sorry DAVE: its just nice sometimes i guess i dont know i didnt know anyone was gonna take pictures of it JADE: thats ok JADE: i do stuff like that too DAVE: hold hands with karkat or take pictures of people holding hands JADE: *snort* no!! neither JADE: gosh JADE: i mean like JADE: with talula DAVE: oh right DAVE: yeah DAVE: you get it JADE: :) JADE: its nice to have a friend you can just be close to DAVE: yeah like DAVE: i dunno ive had you john and rose but its a weird troll thing with karkat JADE: i guess because its so normal for them DAVE: its just kinda weird we can feel it too JADE: i dont think its weird DAVE: i just didnt think we could before JADE: im sure there are a lot of things that take trying like that JADE: i agree it was weird at first JADE: but once you understand it... JADE: its nice JADE: im glad for it JADE: i guess its kind of like food from foreign countries JADE: if you grow up eating it it tastes fine but its confusing if youve never tried it and you might not even like it at all DAVE: thats actually the most legit example ive ever heard JADE: hehe! JADE: it just kind of hit me right now i guess DAVE: we call that a fuckin epiphany JADE: that we do JADE: *smooches his cheek* DAVE: this is random as fuck but like do you ever just DAVE: sit here like DAVE: im married DAVE: and thats my kid over there DAVE: and it just feels so weird to think and have it be true DAVE: but at the same time you wouldnt really trade it for anything JADE: yeah... definitely JADE: most of our lives its been so different JADE: different enough that this definitely wasnt something i had ever even imagined as a possibility DAVE: same tbh JADE: but now that we're here it's like JADE: it's hard to imagine anything else DAVE: its hard to want anything else JADE: its so crazy and perfect DAVE: and so is she -gestures to dove's crib- JADE: yeah she is JADE: *squeezes him* DAVE: -squeezes her right back- fuck JADE: *giggling* i know DAVE: everything is trippin me out JADE: i guess we should enjoy it JADE: *more smooch* DAVE: i already do JADE: hehehe DAVE: are you feeling tired JADE: a little bit DAVE: wanna go to bed DAVE: like i dunno DAVE: cuddle or some shit JADE: yeah *kisses him again and starts lazily pulling clothes off* DAVE: -he kisses her right back and only leaves the bed to change into his pajama pants before returning- JADE: *she's not even gonna bother. FUCK CLOTHES* DAVE: -dave has his routines unfortunately, but he's going to crawl into bed and take her with him- JADE: *eeee* DAVE: -the cuddles are happening- JADE: *SNUGGLES FOR AGES* JADE: *she feels so much better now* DAVE: -he's just happy he can make her feel better like she helps him feel better. it's about time he can help her.-

DAVE: -dave's trying his best to calm dove down by holding her and also chase jade at the same time- jade wait JADE: -ugh why is she the worst on top of everything else being the worst, and she really almost doesn't stop but she forces herself to. just stop in place- DAVE: -he catches up to her, and with dove crying, it's difficult for him to get his thoughts together- can we just talk about this DAVE: please JADE: -she's not looking at him, and she's quiet for a long moment- yes DAVE: we might just wanna in our room though because i mean as much as the hall has great acoustics dove needs whatever she needs right now JADE: i know JADE: -keeps walking- JADE: -opens their door- DAVE: -he walks on in after jade and shushes dove while doing his normal DAD routine here. the glorious life of changing diapers before bed- DAVE: yo dove youre good DAVE: i know its late for you but you gotta stop partyin it up JADE: -she's just pulling her furry accessories off, or at least the ones that come off- DAVE: you have a curfew young lady JADE: -meanwhile dove is just slightly less agitated- DAVE: -finishes the process of changing her and getting her into her pajamas. he's quietly rapping at her like he normally does and attempts to put her in her crib- JADE: -babby still crying, but Jade is taking advantage of the distraction to be in her own head and change- DAVE: do you think shes hungry again or just tired JADE: -no response. jade is half in the closet- DAVE: -sighs at that and just kind of mumbles under his breath- k cool -before picking dove up again and going to get one of their pre-made bottles just in case- JADE: -she finally moves out of the closet and sits on the bed- DAVE: -time to try feeding the baby and seeing if that works- JADE: -oh hey, she does seem to be hungry- DAVE: -oh thank god- DAVE: -in that case, he cradles her in one arm and sits down next to jade, still dressed as little red riding hood.- DAVE: so DAVE: can you tell me whats going on in your head DAVE: or whatever JADE: ... JADE: ...i just JADE: ... how long has she been doing this????? DAVE: shes never done this before DAVE: this whole straight up coming onto me thing JADE: what does she even think shes doing JADE: does she think were stupid or something??? DAVE: what do you mean JADE: i watched her kill jake! JADE: right in front of me!! DAVE: -he waits a second before speaking- i know DAVE: that really sucks you had to see that JADE: if she honestly thinks she can mess with you now shes got another thing coming DAVE: -maybe if he smoothly transitions nothing will seem like a big deal- DAVE: in the times weve been talking she hasnt done anything like this DAVE: unless im just DAVE: oblivious JADE: -it doesnt quite sink in what he means- so shes trying to mess with you and be awful JADE: what else is new DAVE: not really DAVE: i dont know if shes really trying to be awful at all JADE: why would she think you wanted anything to do with her??? DAVE: -he's silent, looking down at dove- JADE: ... dave DAVE: yeah JADE: why would she think that?? DAVE: cuz we talk sometimes JADE: what do you mean DAVE: like on pesterchum or if we you know DAVE: bump into each other in the cafeteria JADE: ... DAVE: -he has a terrible feeling about this- JADE: you JADE: talk to her a lot? DAVE: i wouldnt say a lot DAVE: just sometimes JADE: why?? JADE: i mean what-- DAVE: cuz shes alone JADE: well JADE: yeah DAVE: and i think somebodys gotta give her a second chance DAVE: it seems like shes better this time around DAVE: like she learned from what she did DAVE: -keeps looking at dove- JADE: ... JADE: wh JADE: you think-- JADE: you think shes LEARNED? DAVE: yeah maybe JADE: dave shes the exact fucking same!!!!! JADE: tell me how shes any different from how she was before except for the fact that shes being treated the way shes deserves DAVE: how exactly am i supposed to lay this out for you in a way that makes any kind of sense JADE: it DOESNT make any sense DAVE: its just gonna sound like im teaming up with a serial killer JADE: what are you TRYING to do JADE: you just JADE: you think she should just be forgiven??? DAVE: youre makin it sound so simple DAVE: its not that simple DAVE: i just dont think anything good is gonna come from her being in a fuckin cell for the rest of her life DAVE: isolated DAVE: it feels so shitty to be so alone like that JADE: yeah well it feels shitty to lose someone you love but she didnt seem to care much about that!!! DAVE: i know jade DAVE: dont you think being in her situation would just make things way worse not just for her but for everyone JADE: no i dont JADE: if she wants friends she can get off our ship and make them somewhere else DAVE: -he can't verbally articulate why he's chosen to keep talking to aranea, why he hasn't written her off as a one-dimensional villain. it's so controversial when she happens to have committed terrible crimes against the two people he cares about most. and he can't pick her over them. he won't.- ok JADE: ok?? DAVE: yeah im DAVE: saying ok to you JADE: im sorry i just JADE: i cant even understand this right now DAVE: its not worth trying to explain DAVE: if you want me to stop talking to her i will even though i dont exactly agree with it DAVE: youre more important JADE: -that just makes her wince- just STOP JADE: its not just that youre talking to her you just JADE: -she knows it doesn't feel quite right, but right now it hurts, to feel so betrayed- YOU dont get to decide if shes worth forgiving JADE: she didnt kill your family! DAVE: -her words ring true inside him, and he begins to realize why exactly this hurts jade so much- DAVE: -it's so much more than just giving her another chance, it's his wife, the girl he loves, losing her family because of her. here comes the guilt, no trace of frustration left.- DAVE: im sorry JADE: dont-- JADE: -she's biting on her tongue, staving off tears that are finally trying to push past the surface anger, but she's reaching for Dove- DAVE: -he's nervous about her wanting dove so suddenly, and like this, but he hands her over anyway- i should have DAVE: thought about you more DAVE: i- -the words aren't coming and he wish they would- JADE: -she just wants to say terrible things back, but she's still biting her tongue, and she cradles her baby- JADE: -then, she stands- DAVE: -he watches her- jade JADE: i need to go DAVE: wait where are you DAVE: where are you going JADE: -she can't even answer him -- she doesn't really know yet, but she's heading for the door like a bullet- DAVE: jade please DAVE: -his voice is pleading, a little desperate.- DAVE: -very desperate.- JADE: -she can't even stop because she's already crying, but the sound of it is moving fast away because she's already through the door- DAVE: -and just like that, he watches them both go out the door. out of sight completely and yet his heart is so heavy as he drops his head into his hands. he fucked up. he fucked up horribly.-

DAVE: -dave punches the code to the room in after a shift that felt way too long. he didn't think it was possible to miss dove so much while being on the same vessel, but it's definitely a thing that still happens. and it also makes his shifts feel that much longer. regardless, he's relieved to step into the room- JADE: -and he's met with the sight of a pretty sleepy family -- both Jade and Dove seem to have fallen asleep on the freshly set-up bed, quite apparently in the midst of a feeding session with how they're positioned and Jade's shirt is askew.- DAVE: -dave can't help but smile a little as he approaches them, leaning down to kiss jade on the forehead to hopefully wake her up.- JADE: -luckily, for once, it does, and her eyes flutter open as she takes a deep inhale, a little surprised at first but expression relaxing as she evaluates the situation and secures her hold on Dove.- oh-- hi DAVE: hey DAVE: long day for the two of you huh JADE: -yawn!- hehe i guess so JADE: did you just get off? DAVE: yeah DAVE: longest shift ever DAVE: with not a lotta action DAVE: and by not a lotta i mean none JADE: well thats... good? JADE: im sorry you didnt get to beat anyone up JADE: :p DAVE: thanks your sympathies are well received JADE: cmeere DAVE: -he does just that, kicking off his shoes and moving so he can sit next to her- here i am DAVE: cmeerin JADE: cmeere more DAVE: more oh damn its gettin real now -he scoots himself so he's right next to her and then turns on his side to face her with a ridiculous sexy pose- DAVE: hows this DAVE: you like this JADE: omg JADE: yes JADE: i love it DAVE: good cuz i aint movin anywhere JADE: -shifts a little so he can snuggle her and dove both- DAVE: -he does actually shift so he can put an arm around them, and also so he can rest his head against jade's- JADE: -there's the soft thumping of her tail against the bed again as she smiles, close enough to kiss him, so she does- DAVE: -he kisses her in return- so she do anything monumental today or what DAVE: anythin worth a milestone JADE: she still hasnt smiled for me -SIGH- JADE: pretty usual DAVE: not even a gassy smile JADE: pffff JADE: no DAVE: man thats a rough day JADE: i know JADE: she missed you DAVE: did she? JADE: i think so! JADE: she keeps looking around when youre not here DAVE: fuck youre tryin to kill me JADE: :) DAVE: well i missed her too probably JADE: of course you did DAVE: of course i did JADE: what else did you do today? DAVE: babe DAVE: thats it DAVE: work is all i did JADE: laaame DAVE: yeah i know -he pauses for a second- hey uh DAVE: could i like ask you about something DAVE: i dont know why im askin to ask you i should just ask you right now JADE: oh DAVE: but i dont wanna come off like an asshole or like JADE: yes of course DAVE: i dont trust you or some shit cuz thats not true JADE: -knits brows- DAVE: so did you know that a troll has like DAVE: some black hots for you JADE: ...! JADE: -well NOW SHE'S RED- JADE: i-- JADE: yes JADE: i did know that DAVE: -he notices she's blushing and looks over at her fully- do you know who it is JADE: im pretty sure JADE: unless-- someone else does??? JADE: but that would be JADE: weird DAVE: ...who is it JADE: ... eridan?? DAVE: what really DAVE: eridan? wow DAVE: the captain? DAVE: wow ok JADE: how did you even JADE: hear about that? DAVE: -the way she's talking about it makes his stomach churn a little, but he's trying to keep his cool- dirk asked about your opinions of the whole troll black quadrant thing DAVE: so i caught on that you know DAVE: someone was into you JADE: he asked you what i thought? DAVE: yeah JADE: -awkward frowning- JADE: eridan was flirting with me for a while JADE: or JADE: whatever that would be called i guess JADE: i got him to spit it out and told him that it wasnt really... something i was thinking about right now DAVE: -well that makes him feel a little better- did he take it ok JADE: i dunno JADE: i think i just made him feel bad and now hes sort of avoiding me? DAVE: so that was the end of it im guessing JADE: i guess so...! DAVE: well thats dumb JADE: what? DAVE: that hes avoiding you JADE: oh JADE: yeah... DAVE: just cuz you told the guy no DAVE: i mean were not trolls JADE: its not like hes doing it maliciously JADE: i think he just feels like he messed up JADE: it makes me... feel bad JADE: -sigh- JADE: its not like i dont like him or... our talks werent fun or anything JADE: even if he was really dumb sometimes >_> JADE: i just dont really get how that translates to something romantic JADE: and its not really high on my priorities to think about something like that right now -- technologicGodot [TG] changed their mood to CHUMMY  -- -- technologicGodot [TG] began pestering growingGradience [GG] at 21:27 -- DAVE: -really, now he feels so much better having this conversation.- yeah no i totally get you DAVE: i dont see it either JADE: maybe if kismes.... es??? JADE: could be like JADE: platonic or something JADE: then i think it would make sense JADE: i dont know if it works like that though JADE: kismesis minus the kiss :P JADE: just mesis JADE: like hate...friends@ JADE: **! DAVE: oh my god DAVE: just mesis huh JADE: just mesis! DAVE: sounds like youre a pirate refering to a sibling JADE: omg JADE: yup JADE: just mesis! JADE: hahaha! DAVE: -he snorts at that- what am i gonna do with a pirate wife JADE: well obviously youre gonna help me get the booty DAVE: cuz im the only one that can give it to you JADE: 8) JADE: (give it to me) DAVE: oh shit JADE: g-g-g-g-g give it to me DAVE: lets make a baby baby baby if thats alright DAVE: nah i dont want another one yet JADE: pfhehe! JADE: we would have to put this one to bed first anyway DAVE: fuck i cant even imagine having twins JADE: well you better cuz youre having the baby next time DAVE: wow me ok DAVE: you sure about that cuz you did like an unbeatable job carryin her around for 7 months JADE: thems the breaks! DAVE: wow excuse me DAVE: rude JADE: hehehehe JADE: your turn now buddy JADE: i hope youre ready to get got JADE: -leans over and neck smooches- DAVE: -those neck kisses get him every single time- with that kinda seducin DAVE: shit JADE: oh thats nothing! JADE: -leans back a little again and kisses his chin, and then she shifts away to finally put Dove in her crib- DAVE: -he watches her as she puts dove back in her crib- well shes gettin some hardcore sleep isnt she JADE: mhm JADE: -she's watching Dove and thinking about that silly conversation and imagining, briefly, what it would be like if Dove had a sibling. but that's a train of thought that ebbs away quickly, and into another- JADE: dave? DAVE: -he turns to look at her- yeah JADE: have you talked to john lately? DAVE: no not really why JADE: ... i talked to him a little while ago JADE: about the stuff we found in that file JADE: about us JADE: he hadnt read his DAVE: wait really DAVE: he didnt know any of that? JADE: no JADE: i tried to talk to him about it and... JADE: he didnt really take it well DAVE: what did he do JADE: well he didnt want to believe me JADE: and then he just sort of.... JADE: left JADE: -shuffles back to the bed- DAVE: when was that? JADE: a couple weeks ago JADE: we havent talked about it since... DAVE: shit DAVE: -shifts so he can put his arm around her again- DAVE: bothered him that much huh JADE: yeah... JADE: it was kind of scary JADE: i mean JADE: just seeing him so upset JADE: hes never upset like that JADE: but it really shook him up that his dad might lie to him JADE: or hide something from him JADE: i guess i understand... JADE: he didnt grow up like we did JADE: he had no reason not to believe his dad DAVE: yeah i never really thought about that kinda shit JADE: its just... sad JADE: that everyone has to be mixed up in all this JADE: even john DAVE: yeah it takes so much to get him down JADE: -lays back again and snuggles into dave- JADE: maybe... i dont know JADE: you could talk to him JADE: see how hes feeling about the whole thing -- technologicGodot [TG] is now an idle chum! -- -- technologicGodot [TG] is now an idle chum! -- DAVE: yeah ill do that DAVE: god i havent talked to him in forever JADE: jeez JADE: hehe JADE: well i guess this isnt the best thing to go talk to him about huh DAVE: i mean its the least i can do JADE: you should probably hang out with him like a normal person too JADE: get your JADE: chill on DAVE: say that again JADE: get your JADE: (chill on) DAVE: whoa ok that went from 0 to 100 real quick JADE: B) DAVE: its so fuckin quiet in here with her asleep DAVE: its almost weird JADE: i know JADE: -snuggles closer- DAVE: -kisses her head- DAVE: not a lot of time for this stuff lately JADE: i know....... JADE: -kisses his neck again, maybe just because- DAVE: -allows himself to nuzzle against her head- i guess i kinda miss it JADE: you guess? -- technologicGodot [TG] is now an idle chum! -- DAVE: i do DAVE: i miss it JADE: -nibbles him a lil- DAVE: ok i really miss it JADE: hehe JADE: i miss you DAVE: miss you too JADE: -just stares at him for a little before reaching to start pulling his shirt off- DAVE: -OH. that went right over his head and he feels a little dumb for it, but he helps her take his shirt off.- its been a long fuckin time since we you know DAVE: is that whats happening right now cuz im so down but i need to like double up on the protection or somethin this time -god he's rambling and blushing at the same time- JADE: -and she leans closer to nip at his lip, not quite able to stifle a smile because he's just so cute always- JADE: (you can just use your hands this time) DAVE: oh yeah -he nods, kissing  her- oh yeah i can definitely do that DAVE: watch out for these hands JADE: ill do better and catch them JADE: :) DAVE: -he kisses her again- oh yeah is that how were gonna do JADE: i guess we better ask your hands DAVE: they say yeah DAVE: they say yeah simultaneously and drop some sick beats JADE: -shifts right on top of him- DAVE: bringin usher into this shit DAVE: oh hey JADE: i cant hear your hands JADE: do you think they could get a little closer? :o DAVE: -puts his hands on her boobs- DAVE: how aboutnow JADE: oh hi! DAVE: actually im gonna take your shirt off first hope thats cool JADE: -tilts head down and tries to nibble one of his fingers and mostly just laughs- yes please do DAVE: -he goes to put his fingers at the bottom of her shirt and begins to lift it up- man when i walked in you even had a sort of nip slip goin on DAVE: shoulda just kept your shirt like that JADE: ahahaha! well theres no going back now JADE: you have to deal with all two of me DAVE: two of you oh shit -he pulls off the rest of her shirt and his hands go RIGHT BACK. his cheeks are so warm still- ok thats better JADE: -she shifts to help him out and then his hands are back and she's biting her own lip with airy laughter- careful DAVE: oh fuck you have special mom titties now huh JADE: -ok she has to actually cover her mouth at that one and stifle another laugh- JADE: yes i-- i upgraded JADE: you are JADE: the best JADE: how do you feel about special mom titties dave JADE: -reaches behind herself to rub at his jeans despite how INTENSELY RIDICULOUS this is because well it almost always is- DAVE: yeah i know -just when he's about to move his hands, there goes jade and his face twists a little bit- i really DAVE: man i love those titties -gently, GENTLY rubs his thumbs over them DAVE: - JADE: -gdi, she's grinning and sighing at the same time and he just makes everything difficult in a good way- JADE: they love feeling you too DAVE: award winning shit right there DAVE: two medals JADE: -unbuttoning his pants- one for each? DAVE: damn straight one for each DAVE: -glances downward to watch her. ugh, she's so fucking hot ALL the time and it's not even fair- JADE: -unzips and slips her hand in, just feeling him, pushing fabric out of the way so she can free him up and wrap her hand around him, and he can't see what she's doing behind her sat up the way she is, but she's watching his face, smiling still- DAVE: -her hand feels cold around him, and it's all of a sudden, enough to elicit a surprised face and a sharp inhalation. he can't see what she's doing at all- fuck -he places his hand on her thigh, grasping it, whether it's covered or not.- JADE: -incidentally it's not, considering Jade's love of skirts has not ebbed, but that's just a bonus for her now as her fingers slip over him, still searching for his reactions, though she does take a moment to encourage his hand higher with her free one- DAVE: -and reactions she gets as he clenches his teeth, feeling her fingers around him. he uses his momentum to follow jade's lead and slide his hand up her skirt, feeling for her underwear- JADE: -she takes in her own tighter breath as her hand moves a little more insistently around him, and her voice is softer, encouraging him now that her hand isn't- yeah DAVE: -he's grateful his jeans are off because he's already hard in her hand. her verbal affirmation gives him the confidence to go right ahead and start her tugging her underwear down just enough before slipping his hand inside- JADE: -and she tilts her hips, rocking a little and exhaling again finally, and it's not the least awkward position in the world, but she can admit to one thing at least, half-smiling to stave off whatever bashfulness she has left- i love being on top of you JADE: youre JADE: i love-- you DAVE: i love you too -and he manages to slip his fingers inside of her, while feeling himself with the urge to roll his hips upward into her hand, but he's trying so hard to contain all of it.-

[8/19/2015 7:29:29 PM] JADE: -with taking care of a baby, there's just not a lot of time to move stuff to a new room. Today, however, it's time to check it out, and she's got her sylladex loaded up with various stuff she's moving over and an arm full of baby carrier.- [8/19/2015 7:30:01 PM] JADE: this new setup is gonna take some getting used to.... -eyeballs the door- i think this is the right room? [8/19/2015 7:32:07 PM] DAVE: yeah its like they dropped us into the maze with some cheese in these weirdass places DAVE: ie this room DAVE: -he's got SO much in his sylladex, and it's going to be a pain in the ass to move around. he unlocks the door and it slides open- here it is DAVE: home sweet lizard home wait a sec is that applejuice [8/19/2015 7:38:52 PM] JADE: ehhh???? [8/19/2015 7:39:26 PM] JADE: -steps in and peers around, everything's on the FLOOR pretty much- [8/19/2015 7:41:06 PM] DAVE: oh sweet applejuice DAVE: but why the fuck would you put it in a jar how are you supposed to drink that DAVE: who drinks shit out of jars DAVE: i mean i guess ive seen it before but seriously no DAVE: maybe in a bottle like all secure and shit DAVE: -walks inside and picks up one of the bottles- i could use some of this stuff [8/19/2015 7:49:04 PM] JADE: -eyeballs him suspiciously- id be careful about random stuff we find in here [8/19/2015 7:49:18 PM] JADE: i know they already checked the rooms for traps but.... [8/19/2015 7:51:16 PM] DAVE: wait are you saying these arent like welcome gifts [8/19/2015 7:51:48 PM] JADE: -sets Dove down and stretches- no i dont think so [8/19/2015 7:51:57 PM] DAVE: but aj [8/19/2015 7:52:13 PM] JADE: unless someone did leave something in here.... hmm [8/19/2015 7:53:50 PM] DAVE: -he opens the jar and looks at it, and then he drops it- OH FUCK [8/19/2015 7:54:02 PM] DAVE: FUCK ITS PISS NO WAY COME ON [8/19/2015 7:55:41 PM] JADE: ... -now there's piss EVERYWHERE- [8/19/2015 7:55:49 PM] JADE: god damn it dave DX [8/19/2015 7:56:13 PM] DAVE: gross what the fuck -picks up all these jars and makes a grossed out face as he disposes of them ALL- what if i DRANK that [8/19/2015 7:57:04 PM] JADE: i seriously doubt you wouldnt have smelled it exactly like you just did [8/19/2015 7:57:21 PM] JADE: -moves dove far away from the spreading spilled piss- [8/19/2015 7:58:10 PM] DAVE: -sorts through his sylladex for cleaning stuff and makes a face as he gets down on his knees and cleans it all up- this is so fuckin dumb who does this [8/19/2015 8:04:33 PM] JADE: someone stupid who hates toilets!! [8/19/2015 8:04:44 PM] JADE: and is a lizard i guess [8/19/2015 8:05:16 PM] JADE: ugh thats so gross XC [8/19/2015 8:20:48 PM] DAVE: nasty DAVE: move in day and im already cleanin up piss DAVE: ok i half expected that but it was supposed to be dove [8/20/2015 5:05:30 PM] JADE: i guess thats what we get for making assumptions [8/20/2015 5:06:37 PM] JADE: im gonna go check the bathroom until this place stops smelling like pee B( -scoops dove out of her carrier and heads in there- [8/20/2015 5:16:53 PM] DAVE: ok let me know how it is cuz I cant deal with more jars of piss right now DAVE: why you gotta play me like that jars [8/20/2015 5:28:02 PM] JADE: ..... um [8/20/2015 5:28:11 PM] JADE: .... wow ok [8/20/2015 5:28:29 PM] DAVE: oh fuck is there more [8/20/2015 5:28:39 PM] JADE: nooooo...... [8/20/2015 5:30:37 PM] DAVE: whats in there [8/20/2015 5:30:42 PM] DAVE: do i wanna see [8/20/2015 5:53:07 PM] JADE: yeah come look [8/20/2015 5:55:46 PM] DAVE: -he walks on in after finishing scrubbing the floor, eager to wash his hands. and then WOW would you look at that- what is the use for that DAVE: is that some kind of sex thing like what IS that for [8/20/2015 6:12:42 PM] JADE: huh....... [8/20/2015 6:12:52 PM] JADE: i dont know [8/20/2015 6:12:59 PM] JADE: but look at the mirror! [8/20/2015 6:14:29 PM | Edited 6:18:38 PM] DAVE: well that looks like alternian to me DAVE: thats all i can say about that [8/20/2015 6:15:50 PM] JADE: it says happy hatching day [8/20/2015 6:18:44 PM] DAVE: whoa nobodys trying to one up the other here [8/20/2015 6:20:48 PM] JADE: huh? [8/20/2015 6:21:16 PM] DAVE: not all of us studied alternian jade [8/20/2015 6:21:26 PM] DAVE: rude [8/20/2015 6:21:31 PM] JADE: >80 [8/20/2015 6:22:03 PM] JADE: youre rude for not knowing [8/20/2015 6:22:36 PM] DAVE: shot through the heart DAVE: hey dove what do you think of this new place [8/20/2015 6:24:15 PM] DOVE: -she's squirming a little in Jade's hold, and Jade reposititons her so Dave can see- [8/20/2015 6:24:28 PM] JADE: pretty weird [8/20/2015 6:24:53 PM] JADE: i hope we can wash this off.... [8/20/2015 6:25:21 PM] DAVE: well i can try DAVE: were gonna have to make it work one way or another tho DAVE: man why did we get the piss room [8/20/2015 6:28:13 PM] JADE: luck of the draw :/ [8/20/2015 6:29:08 PM] JADE: wash your hands dude! [8/20/2015 6:32:06 PM] DAVE: oh yeah right DAVE: -goes to wash his hands and then glances back at dove- piss room or not your dads gonna make this place so cool [8/20/2015 6:32:48 PM] JADE: are we gonna get a dance floor and rave lights? [8/20/2015 6:33:15 PM] JADE: that way she can dance before she walks which is of course very important [8/20/2015 6:33:30 PM] DAVE: thats obviously the only way to grow up DAVE: were gonna do it [8/20/2015 6:33:39 PM] JADE: its gonna be just like the sims! [8/20/2015 6:34:24 PM] DAVE: except real life and without that annoying build mode music [8/20/2015 6:37:51 PM] JADE: instead we are going to listen to jason derulo [8/20/2015 6:37:58 PM] JADE: every day! [8/20/2015 6:39:16 PM] DAVE: you know what DAVE: ok DAVE: im cool with that DAVE: doves first words can be jason deruuuulo [8/20/2015 7:03:10 PM] JADE: agh! what a missed name opportunity :p [8/20/2015 7:03:52 PM] DAVE: why didnt we name her that DAVE: seriously tho DAVE: -sighs a little- ok so we got a shit ton to unpack DAVE: you got any idea where you want stuff [8/20/2015 7:55:11 PM] JADE: well of course! -offers babby- [8/20/2015 7:56:46 PM] DAVE: -picks up his daughter and gives her a good old cheek smooch before holding her against him- lead the way DAVE: time to deck out the doghouse [8/20/2015 8:40:16 PM] JADE: -swoops back into the room and rests her hands on her hips as she examines this HOT EX LIZARD MESS.- ok well i do like that table but the bed is gonna have to go [8/20/2015 8:49:35 PM] DAVE: yeah talk about jank DAVE: tossin that DAVE: i mean our old furniture was pretty cool right DAVE: gotta make room for the turntables [8/20/2015 9:04:01 PM] JADE: yeah! and i am not parting with those beds [8/20/2015 9:04:50 PM] JADE: or any of the fluffs [8/20/2015 9:08:01 PM] JADE: and we are gonna have to clean all of this... -sigh- [8/20/2015 9:08:51 PM] JADE: -captchalogues the floor bed- [8/20/2015 9:12:51 PM] DAVE: you dont know what the lizards got up to on that bed DAVE: i dont wanna know DAVE: and hey lets clean lets do this I'll blast some beats and make dove dance DAVE: like really gently tho [8/20/2015 9:17:24 PM] JADE: pfff!! [8/20/2015 9:17:39 PM] JADE: yes lets do it [8/20/2015 9:18:31 PM] DAVE: right now [8/21/2015 3:56:49 PM] JADE: riiiight noooww [8/21/2015 3:57:44 PM] JADE: ill go to storage and get some things [8/21/2015 4:07:06 PM] DAVE: -uncapchalogues a STEREOPOD he alchemized from a while ago and carefully lowers himself with dove to select Jason derulo. He ain't playin- [8/21/2015 4:16:47 PM] JADE: -moves for the door- whats first dad? [8/21/2015 4:36:31 PM] DAVE: what cleanin wise DAVE: probably the surfaces were gonna keep DAVE: then the floor [8/21/2015 4:36:54 PM] DAVE: -bounces dove a little- [8/21/2015 4:37:42 PM] JADE: i mean the song! :p [8/21/2015 4:38:22 PM] JADE: i need to know what to sing to myself on the way [8/21/2015 4:51:03 PM] DAVE: lets go with give it to me -changes it to that- how you like that dove [8/21/2015 4:51:31 PM] DOVE: -stares at him very intensely- [8/21/2015 5:00:42 PM] DAVE: -bounces her- lets get crazy crazy crazy [8/21/2015 5:27:59 PM] DOVE: -jade is out the door and that leaves Dove and Dave alone. She's still trying to stare at him but all this bouncing keeps happening- [8/21/2015 5:29:51 PM] DAVE: lets make a baby baby baby but thats alright DAVE: nothin wrong with it at allllll DAVE: youre the baby dove [8/21/2015 7:09:26 PM] DOVE: -Makes a sound like EH!- [8/21/2015 7:11:48 PM] DOVE: -and proceeds to make confused looking eyebrows at him- [8/21/2015 7:13:04 PM] DAVE: give it to me whoaaaaa DAVE: give it to me whoaaaaa DAVE: why are you so cute all the time tho that aint fair DAVE: what you lookin at me like that for [8/21/2015 7:14:21 PM] DOVE: -just STARING into his eyes if he has no shades- [8/21/2015 7:15:27 PM] DOVE: -and then proceeds to give him a GUMMY SMILE- [8/21/2015 7:17:54 PM] DAVE: -he gasps so loudly, FLIPPING OUT RIGHT NOW BECAUSE SHE'S SMILING AT HIM- oh my god DAVE: oh my god DAVE: fuck DAVE: hey  baby -smiles back at her- hey little girl DAVE: yeah you got a wicked cute smile holy shit I didnt even DAVE: dove you rascal [8/21/2015 8:09:57 PM] DOVE: -she just keeps smiling for a bit before the expression fades. She ain't sure what she just did but she sure as hell did it- [8/21/2015 8:10:28 PM] JADE: -finally wanders back in, none the wiser, with cleaning supplies and bopping to the music- [8/21/2015 8:10:50 PM] DAVE: jade jade jade DAVE: jade you missed it jade [8/21/2015 8:18:40 PM] JADE: pump pump pump it-- huh????? [8/21/2015 8:19:08 PM | Edited 8:19:14 PM] DAVE: she smiled like DAVE: a real big gummy smile even if she aint got no teeth babe it was like DAVE: fuck she thought i was funny [8/21/2015 8:29:50 PM] JADE: oh what!!!! [8/21/2015 8:30:00 PM] JADE: i missed it!? [8/21/2015 8:34:01 PM] DAVE: you missed it DAVE: maybe shell do it again DAVE: or frown for the rest of her life [8/21/2015 8:38:43 PM] JADE: nooo dont say that D: [8/21/2015 8:38:55 PM | Edited 8:39:01 PM] JADE: i wanna see her smile -shuffles closer- [8/21/2015 8:39:13 PM] DOVE: -REFUSES TO SMILE- [8/21/2015 8:39:34 PM] DAVE: pump pump pump it up [8/22/2015 4:42:41 PM] JADE: smile for mommy! [8/22/2015 4:42:52 PM] DOVE: -nope- [8/22/2015 4:43:03 PM] JADE: :p!!!!! [8/22/2015 4:43:23 PM] DOVE: -wat do u even want- [8/22/2015 4:43:32 PM] JADE: pffff fine ok [8/22/2015 5:40:55 PM] DAVE: shes exhausted her smiling resources for today DAVE: come again

JADE: -She's lying in bed, somewhere between napping and nibbling on infirmary food still in her hospital gown and IV. It's been a long night (and day) for many reasons.- DAVE: -dave re-enters the infirmary room jade's in and uncaptchalogues a bunch of stuff- hey -there's toothbrushes if they didn't have them. Some clothes. Jade's plush dolls, some snacks and gum and blankets. so much stuff. he lays it all out on a chair near here- so this was from karkat JADE: -She looks up when he comes in, watching the veritable avalance of STUFF from his sylladex- JADE: oh JADE: good DAVE: are you hungry JADE: -not really, but- i guess so DAVE: -hands her some snacks- like any of these or -pulls out some more snacks, and snausages- any of these JADE: omg JADE: ... JADE: fuck it JADE: -reaches for the snausages- DAVE: -smiles a little and hands them over to her- how did i know JADE: -busts open the box and nibbles on one- JADE: ... dave DAVE: yeah JADE: have you gone to see her yet? DAVE: -he nods- just briefly DAVE: didnt feel right bein there without you JADE: will you help me go over there? DAVE: -he pauses and then nods again- yeah DAVE: -he approaches the bed and holds his hand out- JADE: -she sets the box aside and sits up, shifting around in the bed and grabbing her IV stand to wheel it closer before her other hand reaches for his shoulder, using it to pull herself up- DAVE: -he allows her to use him to stand up, all the while making sure she doesn't fall or he doesn't lose his balance. he helps to straighten her out and remain on the side of her opposite the IV stand- JADE: -her arm shifts around his shoulders completely and she leans into him, getting used to her legs again and how shaky they feel, shedding the numbness, and she moves carefully, determined not to trip up and fall. she needs to see Dove.- DAVE: -with an arm around her, he carefully leads her to the room where dove is, opening the door for the two of them and pressing forward where they can see the little incubator.- JADE: -she moves with him, and once they arrive in Dove's room, she can't pull her eyes away from the incubator, every step closer showing her more of her baby. She's so small still, filled with tubes, and the sight aches in her chest in so many different ways. She's alive, but so fragile, and she just holds onto Dave tighter, eyes wide.- DAVE: -he holds onto her in return and firmly to let her know that he can be her support at any point should she need it. seeing their little girl like this hurts, but it also gives him a little bit of hope, and it's all he can hold onto- thats her JADE: -She just can't decide how she feels. Her baby is alive, and gingerly, her hand moves from the IV stand to rest against the wall of the incubator.- JADE: -Her voice is small when she speaks, deceptively quiet.- JADE: you can do it DAVE: -he takes a deep breath, watching dove in the incubator and trying not to get emotional all over again. he hears jade and nods, putting his hand on the wall of the incubator as well- keep on goin dove JADE: -she's quiet again for a long moment- JADE: well be here every day JADE: when youre ready you can come with us DAVE: -he nods, agreeing- its gonna be so cool when youre out of here DAVE: im gonna make sure its worth it DAVE: youre gonna have cool stuff and a mom and dad that love the hell out of you DAVE: even if you already got the latter right now JADE: and a family JADE: a big family DAVE: the biggest family dove JADE: and JADE: youre gonna be the star JADE: -sniffs a little- JADE: its you DAVE: yep youre gonna be the baby JADE: by virtue of being a baby at the very least JADE: hehehe DAVE: and bein the youngest unless bro ends up reproducing also which would be weird cuz hes so old and hes your grandpa bro JADE: dave no JADE: hahaha DAVE: what DAVE: it could happen DAVE: im just preparing her JADE: -snuggles him a little closer. even if shes in there and they're out here, it's better just being with her- DAVE: -he rubs her arm with his hand that's around her- i think she has my nose JADE: thats sure not all JADE: look at those blond hairs DAVE: oh my god youre right DAVE: what are the odds JADE: pretty good apparently JADE: hehehe JADE: and her little feet... DAVE: are you saying i have little feet JADE: no just JADE: look at them JADE: theyre so tiny DAVE: oh DAVE: yeah theyre so little DAVE: just think this is the smallest shes ever gonna be again JADE: i know... JADE: -glances at the hand holes in the incubator and looks around for a sink- JADE: help me over there? DAVE: -without hesitance, he sees where she's glancing, and he nods- yeah DAVE: -and helps her over there- JADE: -she turns on the water and takes time and care washing her hands, making sure to use a paper towel to turn the knob off and touch nothing else as she makes her way back over to the incubator, and then she slips one hand inside, careful with a single fingertip brushing over Dove's skin and finding her tiny hand- DAVE: -seeing jade do this, he follows suit, taking the same care just in case before watching as jade has contact with their daughter for the first time. he's silent, feeling his throat tighten as he watches them.- JADE: -She doesn't want to move away. She keeps her hand there for a long time, smiling, feeling itty-bitty fingers touching her own, and she moves to tickle a little foot for a moment, stroking a small, chubby leg. Everything about it felt like love, and she just wished she could scoop up this small, precious thing and keep her close. But, eventually, she relents, pulling her hand away and looking at Dave with moist eyes.- DAVE: -dave's completely entranced in this moment, that is until jade pulls her hand away. he meets her gaze and looks back at dove before sliding his hand in, touching her soft, tiny fingers. he makes a noise like he's trying not to cry.- holy shit JADE: -she's still smiling -- beaming, really -- and she can't help glancing at Dave's face sometimes, seeing her own feelings reflected back there- JADE: shes incredible DAVE: -yep, he's totally tearing up right now- i know -he gently just moves his finger along her arm before slowly pulling it away- shes amazing JADE: -sniffs, definitely tearing up again too- JADE: ... i cant believe your dick did this JADE: -cracking up im sorry- DAVE: -great now he's crying/laughing- dont underestimate my dick JADE: never again JADE: i promise DAVE: can you believe you carried her around inside you this whole time i mean what the fuck was that about JADE: i know JADE: i almost miss it a little DAVE: i know right in a weird way JADE: but now shes here DAVE: right in front of us JADE: -sighs and leans into him again- JADE: i think i need to lay back down but i dont want to leave DAVE: -he kisses jade's head- how about i make you a deal DAVE: you lay down for a few hours and we come back here after JADE: ... ok DAVE: -he takes another deep breath and looks into the incubator again- bye dove were gonna be back soon JADE: -it's difficult to say goodbye, but she finally musters up the willpower- bye sweetie DAVE: -he kisses jade's head again and helps turn her around to lead her back to where they came from. his heart is heavy, but it is also light with hope that maybe everything really will be ok.- JADE: -it's helped a lot, finally seeing her baby and knowing she was making it. she can't wait until this period has passed, but for now it's enough to hold onto that hope-

JADE: -thanks to Jake's panicked assistance, they arrive in the infirmary, and Jade finally sits down on a bed. The contractions are still light, but certainly not comfortable. They're going to be here for a good twelve hours or so, but Jade's nervous, slowly getting hooked up to an IV and changed into a hospital gown.- DAVE: -he's been staying possibly TOO CLOSE to jade, just trying to make sure nothing's going wrong. he has to be asked by a nurse to please step back sir, and that's why he's currently on his device typing away to eridan- JADE: -YEAH SIR, i have to get changed and in bed, but she is set up and leaning back before terribly long and just settling in for a ride of contractions. She's got a pad under her right now for whenever her water breaks, which she's hoping is soon just so it can be out of the way and she can stop waiting for it- JADE: dave DAVE: -he trips over a chair on his way to jade's bed but manages to catch himself- yeah what yeah? DAVE: sup? JADE: -jfc, but she's reaching for his hand- JADE: ... i guess she couldnt wait to get out DAVE: -he grabs her hand and his palms is a little sweaty- yeah i guess not DAVE: real impatient lil girl weve got huh JADE: yeah JADE: -she's trying not to worry, but it's difficult to think about anything else- DAVE: -he leans down to push her hair out of her face and kiss her forehead- im uh DAVE: im not goin anywhere ok like DAVE: ever DAVE: probably JADE: -looks up at him with an expression that says "better be more than probably"- DAVE: for sure DAVE: i mean im just DAVE: soundin like an idiot DAVE: ok but do you ever like just look at yourself and think man i cant believe daves dick did this JADE: -fuck, now she's laughing- JADE: no i cant say i ever thought about it like that specifically DAVE: well not gonna lie since this seems to be a prime moment for honesty DAVE: i have JADE: this is probably the best thing your dick ever did JADE: even if it doesnt feel so great right now JADE: heheh DAVE: -he thinks about that- ok yeah ill take it JADE: you should thank it for me JADE: ... i really just said that DAVE: -he pats his own crotch- jade said thanks for knockin her up JADE: -facepalms- JADE: i have regrets DAVE: what DAVE: are you hatin cuz im so potent or what DAVE: hey maybe youre just ridic fertile ever consider that JADE: thank you dave DAVE: -he kisses her again- youre welcome now we just gotta like DAVE: i dunno try not to get pregnant again but try harder or somethin DAVE: unless you want to DAVE: i dunno if youd want to decide that right here while all this is goin on JADE: i am so far from thinking about that while in labor DAVE: but im sayin like im not sayin no i just wanna see the first one DAVE: oh yeah JADE: -squeezes his hand and pulls it closer- JADE: ... were going to be okay DAVE: yeah we are DAVE: were gonna be just fine DAVE: and were gonna meet our girl today JADE: yeah JADE: -she's not sure how much she believes it, but she wants to. for whose sake, she's not certain anymore- DAVE: are you in a lot of pain JADE: no JADE: it just feels like cramping a little DAVE: ok thats good at least right JADE: yeah i think so JADE: who are you talking to? DAVE: uh eridan DAVE: hes checkin on yo uso DAVE: you so* DAVE: but guy has no idea what the fuck any of this is JADE: oh JADE: hahaha DAVE: he thinks that water breaking is pissing JADE: pfffff JADE: well i guess hes trying JADE: tell him i said hi DAVE: ok DAVE: i guess he must have seen us leave the atrium JADE: heh JADE: that was probably JADE: confusing DAVE: he says to make sure you keep doin all the shit im telling him about DAVE: the right way without explodin water everywhere JADE: e_e JADE: oh yes i will definitely do that DAVE: oh good im sure hes gonna be relieved JADE: :P JADE: thats clearly our priority here DAVE: yep he is the number one DAVE: make sure eridans relieved in all aspects DAVE: wait not all JADE: -sNRK- DAVE: yep lets casually move on from that conversation DAVE: so do you uh DAVE: remember DAVE: like the first time we talked on pesterchum JADE: haha of course i do! DAVE: i was like shit that girls 13 whaaat JADE: i was really glad to find you JADE: you were so different from anyone i had ever known DAVE: seriously JADE: yes! JADE: i learned a lot from you DAVE: like what DAVE: how did you learn from me JADE: i learned about stuff on earth JADE: and that you called them refridgerators JADE: :P DAVE: hahahahaha yeah thats right DAVE: i was like what do you call it JADE: i just thought...! JADE: refrigifyificator made sense at the time DAVE: well thats obvious cuz it has yiff in there JADE: >:O DAVE: dont even JADE: youve got yiff in you JADE: ;_ JADE: ... JADE: ;) DAVE: fuck DAVE: jade JADE: hahaha!! JADE: oh JADE: ... JADE: i JADE: -looks down- DAVE: what DAVE: are you ok DAVE: what happened DAVE: are you ok DAVE: is everything good DAVE: do i need to get someone or somethin DAVE: are you ok JADE: dave! DAVE: are we good JADE: im fine DAVE: what DAVE: oh JADE: i just JADE: felt JADE: uh JADE: :| DAVE: felt what JADE: my water DAVE: your water broke? JADE: yes...! JADE: oh my god its still going DAVE: is DAVE: is that normal DAVE: -the drone busts in with PIZZA- DAVE: -PIZZA FOR A  ME A- JADE: -oh my god this is so untimely- DAVE: uh DAVE: ok JADE: well JADE: ok DAVE: -he takes the pizza and just sets it aside- DAVE: do i DAVE: tell somebody JADE: umm DAVE: is it still goin JADE: yes JADE: i think its supposed to do that DAVE: wow really JADE: yes really! DAVE: oh ok DAVE: im gonna go tell somebody JADE: just tell the nurse DAVE: im gonna go tell her yeah DAVE: -he leaves the room and then can be seen turning around to go the opposite way that he started to go- JADE: .... -dave pls- DAVE: -he returns with the nurse and kind of HOVERS behind her as she checks up on jade. the nurse asks him to please step back sir, she is doing just fine but she can't work when he is hovering that closely- JADE: -she's probably getting that pad changed out from under her and just kinda chilling- JADE: (this is going to be a while isnt it) DAVE: (i think so) JADE: ... JADE: are you going to eat that pizza? DAVE: can i eat it DAVE: is it ok with you JADE: yes otherwise im just going to sit here smelling it D: DAVE: oh ok yeah all right DAVE: -he opens the box and just starts to STUFF HIS FACE- DAVE: -he's gonna eat this entire pizza. thanks eridan- JADE: -omfg- JADE: ... JADE: youre such a dork DAVE: fanff fafe JADE: did you just say babe? DAVE: yeaf JADE: thanks babe? DAVE: -he nods- JADE: ... JADE: i cant believe i understood that DAVE: fafe JADE: youre a fafe :p DAVE: fanff DAVE: -sucks on his fingers after swallowing a piece- DAVE: cool DAVE: -man he's made it about 3/4 of the way there- -- technologicGodot [TG] changed their mood to SMOOTH  -- JADE: -Jade, meanwhile, is NOT EVEN 3/4 THIS SUCKS- JADE: ... JADE: you suck DAVE: what why JADE: you make it look so easy JADE: i hope you push out a big food baby later DAVE: what to eat all of this pizza JADE: then well be on the same page DAVE: ok yeah that could be a thing that happens DAVE: sympathy pains right JADE: exactly JADE: help me give birth by also giving birth DAVE: there we go thats what this is about DAVE: doin it together JADE: -snnrrrkk- DAVE: whats so funny DAVE: this is some real shit JADE: uh huh DAVE: is the baby out yet JADE: omg JADE: no of course not! JADE: she hasnt even started coming out yet JADE: my uh JADE: stuff is just making room for her DAVE: why is your stuff making room for her when shes comin out JADE: its making room for her TO come out you dingus! DAVE: oh right DAVE: got ya DAVE: ok DAVE: -stuffs his face some more- JADE: -ROLLS EYES- DAVE: wow that saff level just DAVE: went way up JADE: im in labor!! JADE: -saff level pls- DAVE: oh right DAVE: ok JADE: -AND SOME TIME LATER- JADE: -there was a lot of talking and hanging out as Jade's contractions progressively got more intense, nurses coming and checking periodically, and eventually she decides to take an epidural while she can. the actual pushing is getting closer, but right now she's leaning back as the drugs are taking effect, holding onto Dave's hand -- and then she squeezes his hand tightly- JADE: dave JADE: i-- feel like im falling DAVE: -he's been attentive as hell with a whole pizza in his stomach, but he holds her hand all the same- you what DAVE: is that normal DAVE: i dont think thats normal DAVE: is this normal JADE: -she can't really think to respond, but a nearby nurse confirms that no, this is NOT normal -- it's her blood pressure dropping- JADE: -but she also confirms that its a result of the epidural and she should be ok- DAVE: -he looks a little freaked out at the nurse, eyebrows knit in concern- wait should be JADE: -there can be some complications but as long as theyre keeping an eye on her it should be okay- DAVE: wait what kind of complications JADE: -a dropping of heart rate in the baby, she says while busily messing with Jade's IV, but she's working to bring everything back to normal levels now- DAVE: -that scares him, it scares him a lot, and he didn't realize just how protective he would feel about his daughter this early on.- and youll tell me if its not ok right JADE: -Jade looks a little zoned and freaked out but it's really because she feels like she's being SUCKED INTO THE BED- JADE: -the nurse agrees that she'll let him know if anything changes, and a few more nurses show up too- DAVE: ok whys everyone in here now DAVE: wait is it starting whats going on DAVE: -he holds jade's hand tightly- JADE: -they're mostly just around for help in case of any changes, but they are preparing for the delivery, the nurse says- JADE: -another minute passes and Jade feels less like she's becoming one with the void, and it's miles better, but her breathing takes a bit to get back on track from that scare and she's holding Dave's hand tightly, pulling it closer- DAVE: -he stays as close to her as he can- you can do this ok DAVE: like i know they all set it up to be really fuckin hard but you can do it DAVE: ive seen you go through worse so this is easy in comparison DAVE: i love you so fuckin much and theres gonna be a little version of us pretty soon JADE: -she's trying to focus on the sweet words, and maybe in another less stressful situation she would appreciate them far more, but right now the balm is rolling off her more than sticking in her head, with everything in her belly getting more intense by the minute- JADE: fuck DAVE: are you ok -he's just so concerned but likely being entirely too overbearing- JADE: no!!! DAVE: well youre gonna be ok soon its gonna be a ok jade like nothin to worry about DAVE: after this youre gonna be solid good to go JADE: -whiiiiines- JADE: stoooop DAVE: oh ok ill stop DAVE: stop what tho im JADE: rrggh! DAVE: ok do i do somethin or do i just stand here or do you need me to do DAVE: something JADE: i am having a lot of problems right now dave!!! DAVE: oh DAVE: yeah i can see that DAVE: sorry about that you can do it DAVE: -he's sweating- DAVE: -he feels so USELESS RIGHT NOW- JADE: i just JADE: need you to HUSH DAVE: ok -he shuts his mouth- are you sure you dont need anything JADE: DAVE ELIZABETH STRIDER DAVE: -he kind of startles in surprise and just SHUTS UP- DAVE: -FOR REAL- JADE: -and it's not terribly long before she feels like she needs to push, but John's there by the time that happens, and the process is as harrowing as one might expect- DAVE: -dave's face is scrunched up the whole damn time- JADE: -dave pls you are not even giving borth- JADE: -I HOPE UR WATCHIN THIS GOREFEST I DID THIS FOR YOU!!!!!- DAVE: -he's so stressed out watching jade stressed out. he can't find a way for himself to be useful at ALL- JADE: -eventually the baby finally finds her way out, and the two of them are able to see her -- how small she is, red and vulnerable, but it's only briefly before she needs to be taken to intensive care and an incubator, and Jade can't help feeling both exhausted and forlorn, robbed of the chance to hold her daughter after everything, and the tears seem inevitable- DAVE: -dave gets the first glimpse of his daughter, after all of this time, but he finds himself trying to see more. but they're making it so hard to see, and just like that, dove's taken away. there are tears in his eyes the moment he sees her, because she's so small and because she's theirs. it's heartbreaking to watch her have to leave so soon without them being able to touch her, to hold her. dave sits beside jade's bed and presses kisses to her cheek because he's crying, too. and he wants her to know she's not alone. but words can't really express how they're feeling right now, so he opts for silence-

-- growingGradience [GG] began pestering technologicGodot [TG] at 18:23 -- GG: dave TG: oh good youre awake TG: sup GG: heh yeah GG: i went to shower earlier and then i talked to the dolorosa GG: i volunteered to help look after the grubs that no one has taken in yet TG: wait youre looking after grubs now TG: are you with them now GG: yeah i am! GG: most of them are sleeping right now TG: i actually got some time right now TG: so where are you anyway GG: theres a block that they were moved to! so they have their own little room :) GG: you can come by and see them if you want TG: i know which one youre talkin about TG: gonna be there in a sec DAVE: -aka right now cuz he's already knocking- DAVE: -can't get there fast enough for those GRUBS- JADE: -omg dave pls- JADE: its open! JADE: -she says QUIETLY- DAVE: -slides the door open and walks on in OH GOD- DAVE: -OH GOD THEYRE EVERYWHERE- DAVE: -keep your fucking cool dave strider- JADE: -there are a few slime 'baths' around where some of them are sleeping, like little baby cocoons, but there are a few of them awake and two of them are on Jade's lap and the other one is buried in her hair- JADE: -the mother grub is just chillin on the floor- DAVE: -he carefully sits next to jade, trying to make sure none of them are ACTUALLY underneath him because he doesn't want to SQUISH one. none of them are as cute as his nephew, nuh uh.- DAVE: hey JADE: hey :) JADE: -lifts up one of the grublings in her lap and offers it over- DAVE: -he glances at it and it feels like his heart's going to just freeze in place but he gently holds this one, idly playing with its hair- DAVE: are you ok JADE: -she nods a little. she had barely even left her room before today, and she knew he knew that.- JADE: its nice here with them DAVE: -he's quiet for some time- ive been really bad at like DAVE: staying around DAVE: and im sorry JADE: -she doesn't know what to say.- youve been busy -thinking about it all, why she even needs him, has her thinking about Jake again, and she doesn't want to, but she doesn't know how not to.- DAVE: yeah but i didnt need to be that busy probably JADE: -nooo dave nooooooooo she's gonna wibble- JADE: -so she just turns her head toward him and buries her face in his neck- DAVE: -he wraps one arm around her, holding the other grub securely in his other. he's guilty for not being around, for getting too absorbed in work, for not being around when jade needed him most- DAVE: im gonna be better ok DAVE: for you for this for everything JADE: -she wished it weren't so easy to feel so sad, but she can't do anything about it, and hot tears spill out onto his skin anyway, even though she's quiet, trying to hold it back, to let it go- DAVE: -he needs to be here for her. he wants to be. and he's beating himself up for not coming before.- its ok jade DAVE: im gonna kick everything thats hurting you in the ass DAVE: gonna straight up take them down in one of those fucked up dorito skateboard games DAVE: but also physically DAVE: but mentally too JADE: -chokes up a little because hes making her laugh- DAVE: -he kisses her head, using his fingers to gently rub the back of her neck- you just wait and see thats exactly how its gonna go down babe JADE: -sniffs and relaxes a little into him- i love you DAVE: -he adjusts slightly for her comfort- i love you too DAVE: so much its fuckin insane DAVE: all the bystanders take one look at me and go yeah that dudes never comin back DAVE: he gone JADE: -giggles a little and then the grub in her hair finds Dave's hand at the back of her neck with its little grub legs- DAVE: is there something in your hair or are you just happy to see me JADE: theres something in my hair JADE: but i am also happy to see you JADE: -grub is clinging to Dave's hand now in a vice grip- DAVE: whatever it is its got me JADE: its parental responsibility dave JADE: its coming for you DAVE: aw shit dont we still got three months DAVE: ok is it weird i remember the date we accidentally conceived DAVE: because i do like DAVE: i know the doctors tell you DAVE: but i remember the exact one JADE: ... -now she's giggling again- JADE: it is pretty cute JADE: and also silly DAVE: not like i tried to i just DAVE: thought about it once DAVE: and i was like oh yeah december 8th DAVE: and then i just DAVE: never forgot JADE: -wipes her tears off his neck and leans in to kiss it instead- JADE: definitely silly DAVE: well now you know too good luck forgettin that shit DAVE: aint just me anymore now youre in it too JADE: that means its going to be tomorrow for three months huh? DAVE: yeah DAVE: god DAVE: thats so soon JADE: it is pretty soon DAVE: but i guess well be here huh DAVE: arent we JADE: ... yeah JADE: we are DAVE: -he nods- DAVE: at least your grandpas here right JADE: yeah DAVE: and my bro DAVE: and god shes gonna get a full on family JADE: hehe JADE: yeah she is DAVE: i couldnt even imagine a full set of parents and shes gettin all of it JADE: the whole family JADE: the entire thing JADE: -chews on her lip- DAVE: the entire family -he kisses her head again- DAVE: what are you thinking about JADE: ... the wedding DAVE: yeah? JADE: yeah JADE: its this month DAVE: youre still ok with having it this month DAVE: after everything DAVE: i mean i am but DAVE: i dont want you to feel like you have to DAVE: or like the date isnt changeable JADE: -she's quiet for a moment, but she nods- JADE: i dont want to put it off anymore JADE: i dont-- JADE: -she didn't know how long everyone would be around still, what might happen once they left this planet, who else they might lose. but she can't bring herself to say that- DAVE: hey DAVE: its ok DAVE: well do it DAVE: we will do it JADE: ok JADE: -she smiles a little, pushing the thoughts back again- DAVE: are you like DAVE: lookin forward to it JADE: yeah...! DAVE: -that didn't sound convincing UH OH- DAVE: yeah ok DAVE: same DAVE: god how many grubs are IN here JADE: quite a few! JADE: and the one in my hair DAVE: thats a whole fuckin lot JADE: you bet it is! DAVE: -he's a little silent. now he's thinking A LOT.- JADE: -she's cradling the one that was in her lap and booping it- DAVE: theyre really fuckin cute JADE: hehehe JADE: i know JADE: you like them a lot JADE: i can tell DAVE: doves gonna be way more adorable i can tell you that much JADE: i am going to sound incredibly biased and say i think you might be right JADE: :) DAVE: who cares if were biased its the reality were livin in JADE: i like that reality DAVE: yeah same here DAVE: so do you like DAVE: gotta spend the night here JADE: we take shifts so since kanaya usually works in the kitchen during the day she will come in at night! DAVE: i was thinkin like DAVE: maybe we could both sleep in our bed or some shit JADE: i would really like that DAVE: yeah cool DAVE: im tired JADE: -dammit now she feels like she's gonna cry again what is emotion- DAVE: -BAE NO- JADE: -SEND HELP- JADE: -LIKE THE COAST GUARD OR SOMETHING- DAVE: shit are you ok JADE: -nods- JADE: -then shrugs- DAVE: babe JADE: -just buries face in his shoulder again- DAVE: as cliche as it is youre gonna be ok JADE: i want to be ok DAVE: were gonna do it together DAVE: everything JADE: ok DAVE: even the shit you think youre going through alone JADE: -rests grub back on her lap just so she can wrap her arms around him- DAVE: -he sets down his arm too just so he can hold her so closely- DAVE: youre real important JADE: -muffled noises- DAVE: cant hear you but i have a feeling youre not saying words anyway JADE: -lifts head a little- youre important