#korsy

[Disclaimer: This author does not know Danish. If you do and this is bad, lemme know! I'd love to fix it. I do know French, but if somehow that's fucked too, lemme know.]

“Bye bye!”

On the ride, Dusty remembered some snacks Karla had giving them for the trip which he'd stashed away on the boat. Retrieving them, he gave each of the kids a cookie, and offered one to Tand, but they refused it. Soppa took all the kids’ cookies first, sniffed them, and then handed them back once they were sure they were safe to eat. The kids started a round of ‘thank you’s and ‘you’re welcome’s like they had when Asger had given them crackers. Tand continued to ignore them. It was still dark out, just before dawn, so despite the summer, a cold breeze was made worse by the speed of the boat. Tand and family wore almost nothing, save for some shorts and shirts made from an unknown fibre. Dusty was worried they'd catch a cold, so he found two blankets in the boat storage and handed them out. The kids all huddled up under one, but Tand refused the other. “Come on, it's really cold,” Dusty insisted. “I'm just giving you a blanket to warm up. I don't want you to get sick.” Tand still didn't move to take it, and just shut their eyes, attempting to shut everyone out. They already looked a bit pale, and after a moment, they pursed their lips, a sound like a hiccup escaping them. Dusty blinked and then patted Korsy's shoulder while he drove the boat. “Can you slow down a bit?” “Hm? Why?” “I think they're a bit seasick,” Dusty said. At that very moment, Tand could hold it, and a little bit of sick dribbled from their mouth. Korsy saw this and slowed down. “Whoa, okay. Over the edge, over edge, please. This is a rental!” Asger rushed over to their side in aid, helping them turn around and lean their head over the edge. They didn't have much to bring up however and just retched dryly. “Were there any water bottles with those snacks?” Korsy asked. “They need something for their stomach.” While Dusty got the water, Asger had Tand close their eyes and breathe deeply. “Just relax,” he said. “Concentrate on your breathing. It'll help steady you.” “Sit them in the middle,” Korsy said. “Less motion there.” Tand let Asger sit them in the centre of the boat and even let him wrap the blanket Dusty offered around his shoulders. Their stomach seemed to have already settled, though they were still pale. Tand spoke suddenly. “Why do you call me that?” “Call you what?” Asger asked. “You call me Tand. But you also call me ‘Them’. And ‘They’.” “Oh, uh. Well, I gave you a name since you don't seem to have one. Of course, if you don't like it, we can change it,” Asger explained. Tand just shrugged at that. “And we call you them because, well, we don't know your gender and it's just polite,” Asger said. Tand looked at him. “My gender?” “Yes. I am a male elf, so my pronouns are he/him,” Asger said. “Oh, are we sharing gender identity and pronouns?” Dusty said excitedly. “Succubus. He/him. Mostly...” “Man. He/him,” Korsy added. Asger looked worriedly at Korsy for that but didn't say anything. Tand knit their brow. “You are all he/him. Then I am too, no?” “I mean, if you want to be, we can do that. You don't have to,” Asger said. “There are other pronouns like she/her, or they/them, or a combination.” “Or neo pronouns,” Dusty added. “Like ze/zir.” Tand frowned, not fully understanding. “I am like you. He and him.” “He and him it is then,” Asger said. “We'll make sure to pay attention to that.” “Do we get those too?” Soppa asked. “Of course,” Asger said. “Did you hear something you like?” Soppa thought about it. “I like he/him too. Like Asger.” “Alright.” Asger smiled. “And the others?” Sten titled their head. “What were the other choices?” “I think we've listed he/him, she/her, they/them, and ze/zir?” Asger retold. “What’s the difference?” Soppa asked. “Well, to be very general,” Dusty started to explain, “Usually, but not always, he/him is used for boys, while she/her is for girls. They/them is often used by people who aren't a boy or a girl, or are both, or sometimes one and sometimes the other... Sometimes they use a combination of the other ones. Or something else entirely, like ze/zir.” Sten just said. “Oh... I don't know.” “How about they/them, then?” Dusty asked. “For now.” Sten just nodded. “She,” Bita piped up. “Is that what you like?” Dusty asked. Bita nodded. “Alright, I think we figured it out then,” Asger said. “In that case, Tand if you want he/him, then you would be the kids' father,” Asger said. “Only if you like that term,” Dusty said. “I know a he/him who goes by mom.” “I don't care,” Tand said. “Whatever's usual is fine. Talking is too much...” “Well, if we go by the norms, then that would make Soppa a son and brother, Sten still a child and sibling, and Bita a daughter and sister,” Dusty said. “Sister!” Bita sounded excited saying it back. “That’s right, you’re Soppa and Sten’s little sister.” Dusty smiled. “Glad we’re in a better mood. A cookie can go a long way.” “An identity can go a long way too,” Korsy said. “A sense of self is very inspiring.” Tand still didn’t seem to be doing so hot and had his head down between his knees, trying to keep from getting sick again. Asger offered him a bottle of water, but he passed on it. Instead, Asger turned back to see the island he’d called home drift further and further away. It wasn’t long before a thick mist obscured his view and the island appeared to vanish. He let out a deep sigh and turned back. Soppa was watching him, so he smiled to the child and leaned back. He wanted to be brave for them. It was all he could do for now.

Tand was pregnant. When they tried to do an ultrasound though, he became very uncomfortable, and it had to be postponed until later. His blood results, however, returned positive for anemia and several nutritional deficiencies. His health would need close monitoring for a while and more blood work soon to see if his new diet helped in these areas. For now, his pregnancy would be considered high risk until his health improved and an ultrasound could be properly done. “So, it’s like you’re a dad now,” Korsy commented. He and Dusty had come to check up on Asger’s situation and were having lunch with him out at a restaurant. “But I’m not their father, and Tand hates me, and I’m starting to think I should have never interfered with them at all,” Asger said. “I mean, yeah, probably,” Korsy admitted. “It wasn’t your place to tell them what’s best for them. Plus, you knew you weren’t allowed to take anything from the rift.” “Now hold on,” Dusty said puffing his chest. “I disagree. Sure, Tand and the children were surviving out there, but they weren’t living. And yes, he managed to get through three pregnancies on his own, but there’s always risk to it, and who knows if he would survive a fourth without medical assistance. If things went wrong, those children could be left all alone to fend for themselves. They’d never survive. You’re doing the right thing.” Asger lowered his head into his hands. “What do I do now?” “Well, do you want kids? ‘Cause it seems like you have kids,” Korsy said. “They’re Tand’s kids, though,” Asger said. “I can’t just insert myself into their lives.” “You already did,” Korsy said. “And like, be honest with me. Would you really have done all this for them if you didn’t have a little crush?” Asger was taken aback. “What, on Tand?” “Of course, on Tand. Do you think we’re stupid?” Korsy shook his head. “Asger, you’re a prude. I know. But tell me you weren’t a little aroused when that cute guy tried to mate with you in the woods.” “I wasn’t! I mean, I suppose you could say he’s attractive… But I have decency,” Asger said. “I’ve heard enough lies. Dusty. Get a read.” Dusty shook his head. “I don’t need a read. He’s completely smitten.” Asger blushed and shook his head. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. Also, I don’t appreciate my cousin making light of someone trying to force themselves on me.” Korsy sighed. “Okay, fair. Sorry about that. I’m sure it was scary.” “It was. I had it under control, but still…” Asger complained. “Anyway, they’re your responsibility now,” Korsy said. “Anything beyond the rift is the responsibility of the dark elves, and as a dark elf yourself, this family is your responsibility. Regardless of your exile.” “Jag vet… But what good can I do when I’ve betrayed Tand’s trust?” Asger asked. “Honestly, I think he understands what you’re trying to do for them, he’s just stubborn,” Dusty said. “And you can’t blame him for being cautious. He’s been alone a long time. Where are those kids’ other parents? And the doctor said he’s still young. Where are his parents, hm?” Asger felt sick to his stomach now, thinking once again about the young Tand, having kids all by himself. “I don’t even know if he wanted to have kids in the first place… He shows some signs of resentment towards them. He was even ready to let them go with us without him before.” “You said his species mates every time they meet up because they’re so few in number and live separately,” Korsy said. “But is that something he knew inherently, or was that something someone told him to justify taking advantage of him?” “I…don’t want to think about that right now. I’m losing my appetite,” Asger said. “Have you talked to your mother since all this?” Dusty asked. “Yes… I had a call with her yesterday,” Asger sighed. “She has…mixed feelings. I think she's proud of me for helping, but rather upset about my exile.” “That's your dad's fault, not yours,” Dusty said. “He's such an asshole…” “As strict as my father can be, I did break the rules at the end of the day,” Asger admitted. “Such rules are not made without reason. We know far too little about Mörkret. It is only reasonable to fear the other side.” “But Tand and the kids are dark elves, right? They deserve to be here,” Dusty said. “I still can't confirm that they are elves,” Asger said. “You haven't checked their mark?” Korsy asked. “The dark elf mark isn't in a very conspicuous place, you know,” Asger reminded. “It's not like I can go around dropping people's pants.” “Didn't you say Tand dropped his pants for you?” Korsy asked. “Should've seen it then.” “I'm sorry, but searching his inner thigh was the last thing I wanted to do in that moment!” Asger defended. “I mean, he literally wanted you to give him attention down there anyway…” Korsy retorted. “Not everyone's like you, Korsy,” Asger said. “I can't just lose my dignity for anyone who offers.” Korsy shrugged. “Your loss…” “You did the right thing,” Dusty assured. “And anyway, we don't know if Tand really wanted to sleep with you or if he was just doing it to get it over with.” Asger frowned. “Yeah…” Korsy raised an eyebrow at his cousin's reaction. “You dog, you.” Asger sat up straighter. “Excuse me?” “You really do have a crush on Tand.” Asger huffed. “Have some respect.” “You didn't say no.” Korsy curled his lips. “You don't want to just be another John, you wanted him to want you.” “Stop.” “You wanted him to find you handsome and charming. Heroic, even.” “You don't know what you're saying.” “You want to hold his hand. You want him to kiss you.” Asger suddenly flushed, remembering those gentle lips on his own. “…” Dusty’s eyes widened. “…Did you kiss him?” “No…” Asger shook his head. “He kissed me. But just to get me in the mood…” “Were you in the mood?” Korsy asked. “Definitely not,” Asger said. “We are not discussing this further.” “Okay, okay. Sheesh.” Korsy had mostly finished his food so he leaned back in his chair and stretched. He paused when he noticed a sly look on Dusty's face, his lips curling devilishly. “What?” “Nothing,” Dusty said, waving it off. “If you have something to say…” Asger lead. “Well…” Dusty propped his chin up. “I was just thinking it must run in the family.” “What?” Asger asked. Korsy rolled his eyes. “Don't encourage him…” Asger raised an eyebrow. “I'd like to know what your friend here has to say.” “It just seems you boys both have a knack for suppressing your feeling,” Dusty said. “You could benefit from being a bit more open.” “I am open,” Korsy said. “I’m an open book! I tell you a lot of things!” Dusty shrugged. “Your book might be open, but you have pages torn out.” “My pages are perfectly intact,” Korsy rebuked. “Alright. Tell me about your pregnancy scare,” Dusty said. Korsy faltered. “I… Well…” “Pregnancy scare?” Asger asked. “You got someone pregnant?” “No, a scare's a scare,” Korsy corrected. “No one got pregnant. And I don’t talk about it because it's not my place to talk about it, you know? It involves another person. People deserve privacy…” “Fine. What's your father's full name?” Dusty asked. “Uhh… Günther Larsen Korsgaard,” Korsy recalled. “Don't ever call him that. Only my mother and his mother could call him that.” “What was your mother's name?” Dusty asked. Korsy tensed a little. “Gesine.” “Tell me about her,” Dusty said. Korsy forced himself to relax. “She was lovely. Bravest person I ever met. She loved cinnamon and collecting animal skulls.” “How did she pass away?” Korsy immediately clammed up. “How did you lose your leg?” Dusty pressed. Korsy stayed silent. “That's enough,” Asger said. “My farster's accident is a sore spot for the entire family. We do not speak easily of it.” “So it was an accident?” Dusty picked out. “I said that's enough,” Asger ordered. “We get your point. Leave it alone.” Dusty waved his hands in front of him. “Sorry. I'll drop it. I can get carried away.” Asger sighed. “I should get back to Tand and the kids. I was going to show them their first movie.” “Ooh, what movie?” Dusty asked. “I'm not sure yet… I'm between Pippi and Moomins.” “Oh, hard decision,” Korsy said, suddenly all chatty again. “But you have to go with Pippi, right? Make your Swedish side proud.” “You're right, it has to be Pippi,” Asger said. “I can show them the Moomins later.” “Wait, Pippi? Like Pippi Longstockings?” Dusty asked. “Pippi Langstrumpf. You know the show?” Asger asked. Dusty nodded quickly. “I watched the show with Dante when I was a kid! She's Swedish?” “Of course! They showed her in Canada?” Asger asked, astounded. “The animated show was actually a Canadian/German/Swedish collab aired around the world,” Korsy informed, checking is phone. “I watched it as a kid in Canada too.” “And here I thought the rest of the world did not know her marvel. I'll be choosing one of the live action films, however,” Asger said. He pushed out his chair, and placed some cash on the table to cover his meal. “Still, I should get to it.” “I'm sure the kids are going to love it,” Dusty said. “Tand too! I can’t imagine he’s seen anything like that.” “I'd ask to come watch with you, but I got some work to do before bed,” Korsy said. “Work?” Dusty asked. “Aren't we off for today?” “You are. I have to do some rescheduling since our elven detour,” Korsy said. “We're gonna have to do some doubling back tomorrow…” “Boo…” Dusty pouted. “Well, it's not late enough to call Grey yet, so I'm gonna see if I can find him a souvenir.” “Sounds like a plan. So, I can get the waiter to bring you the bill?” Korsy said directly to Dusty. “Me?” Dusty frowned. “You were serious about that?” “Yep. I’ve bought every meal since we got here and you don’t need to eat,” Korsy said. “I should’ve never told you that…” Dusty said pouting. “Fine.” He started to pull out his wallet. Asger chuckled and put a couple more bills on the table. “I’ll get it this time. Don’t worry.” “Hey! No! You shouldn’t be paying for shit,” Korsy said. “He needs to learn.” “It’s fine, I have plenty of funds,” Asger said. “Yeah, but you’re out of the job now, so you should be saving,” Korsy said. Asger started backing away. “I’m leaving. What’s on the table is on the table.” “So chivalrous,” Dusty said, smiling coyly. “Korsy, you could learn something from your cousin.” “I’ve literally paid every bill until now!” “Okay, okay. Calm down, big boy.” “You’re all too much.”

The Deep was a nickname for the dark elf laboratories since it was several storeys below ground. It was more dungeon like than a proper lab, and it was where they studied any and all things ever extracted from Mörkret. Dark elves used to take pride in their study, but many things from beyond the rift were just too dangerous, so it became a rule nothing is removed from Mörkret. For this reason, the Deep had mostly been abandoned, however it was the most appropriate place to take Tand and family to study them now that Asger had broken the rules. Korsy refused to go in without Dusty this time however, because much like an angel, he had the ability to understand the mood and feelings of others and this could be to their benefit should Tand and his children be too afraid of them. The elven guards adamantly refused however, so Korsy had to go to the top. “Morbror,” Dusty sung as he stepped before his uncle in the great hall of the dark elf palace. “Thank you for seeing me.” His mother's brother was a sharp faced elf with especially ashen grey skin and long lavender hair the same colour as Korsy's, slicked back behind his ears, but loose all down his front and back. His violet eyes were cold as he regarded his nephew, but his lips held a smirk. He had made himself a throne room made from ebony stone and sat in the middle like the king he seemed to think he was. “Man's child. You should know to call me King Folke.” “King Folke. Got it. You can keep calling me man’s child, I like it. I would have a name and a title in relation to you, but it’s cool.” His uncle’s eyebrow twitched. “I can assume you’re here to pollute my eldest son with your mischief further.” “I can't say my mischief had anything to do—I'm sorry, did you say eldest son?” Korsy asked. His uncle opened his silken dress robes to reveal the babe currently slumbering against his chest. They looked about a year and a half or two years old, and had snow white hair, indicating to Korsy that whoever his other parent was had a very ‘desirable’ bloodline in elvish terms. “Oh, wow. Congrats. Made that yourself, did you? You must be proud,” Korsy said, although the thought of anyone willing enough to bed his uncle as the person he'd become made him ill. It was clear now why his uncle had turned so quickly against Asger who was once the apple of his eye; he had a more desirable replacement ready. “Remarried after Karla how quickly now?” “My lovely Karina and I have been married six years now,” Folke answered with pride. “Ah, so immediately after the divorce. Got it. Be careful with those K’s though. Wouldn’t want my next auntie named Katalyn or something. Some might start worrying about you…” Korsy did some finger math in front of him for show. “Soo… How old’s my new cousin? Seems a while to start making more heirs. Or does he have a few older sisters you’re neglecting?” Folke’s nose wrinkled. “I do in fact have two lovely daughters. They are perfectly looked after. I do not know what you expect to achieve with such incendiary language. I imagine you’re looking for a way into the Deep.” “Oh right! Almost forgot about that to be honest,” Korsy said, sheepishly rubbing his neck. “I wouldn’t mind getting down there. Or if you want to skip that, you could just release those folks to me.” “And why would I do that?” The self-appointed king scoffed. Korsy shrugged. “Family favour. I mean, to be honest, I don’t think you really want them in the first place. APID deals with these kinds of things all the time. You can literally just forget about Asger ever bringing them over in the first place.” “Hm. And I suppose you’d expect that to absolve him of his transgressions?” “No. Obviously, you’ll want to punish him for a bit. But, like, it doesn’t really look good on a ‘king’ if his legacy is in prison, does it?” Korsy reminded. “A true king cannot make exceptions for his own children,” Folke stated. “Asger will serve his time.” “And how much time is that?” Korsy asked. “Until I am satisfied,” Folke said. “That’s not really… Okay, well anyway, what do I need to do to take those Dark Realmers off your hands?” Korsy asked. “It’s funny that you think that is even on the table,” his uncle chuckled. “It is the dark elf race’s responsibility to take care of any threats from the Mörkret.” “So, you’ve determined that they are a threat?” Korsy asked. “Any and all things from the Dark Realm are a threat to the Earth Realm,” Folke stated. “Right, but my cousin is a reasonable person, and he has inherited your keen eye for judgement,” Korsy said. “I don’t believe he would bring that family here without good reason. Don’t you agree?” His uncle was unmoving. “My son believes these creatures to be dark elves. He has inherited his mother’s delusions.” “Well, if they are not dark elves, they could still be related to some earthly creature, else why would they pick up our…your language so fast?” Korsy said. “APID has the most extensive database across the world on all non-human persons. We have the resources to determine exactly what these people are and to take care of them. Let us relieve you of them.” Folke shrugged. “What’s stopping me from just throwing them back where they came from? Or why shouldn’t I just destroy them?” Korsy shrugged as well. “If I believed that was in the cards, I think you’d have already done that. You haven’t, right?” “Correct.” “I can only imagine it is because you share in your son’s curiosity,” Korsy said. He shifted his weight and held his hands behind his back. “Morbror… I understand your resistance towards recognising my place here, but I once knew you as a kind and generous elf. These Dark Realmers are new and frightening, who knows what it means for the pure and strong dark elf race if they are related, right? But you also know Asger would only bring them over if he believed they needed help. I believe you’d like to help, but you are worried for the safety of the dark elves. I understand that. As their leader, you must take that into consideration. But if you let APID have them, they can be off your mind.” Folke took pause, but his expression did not change. “They are the responsibility of the dark elves.” “Then…” Korsy snapped his fingers. “Give us Asger too. He brought them over. He is a dark elf. Let them be his responsibility under the care of APID. He’ll be out of your hair, and you can give all your attention to little… What’s my little cousin’s name?” “Folke Jr.” Folke answered. “I should’ve guessed…” Korsy said. “Of course, you named him after you. Of course, you did.” Folke’s eye twitched. “You truly have your mother’s boldness.” Korsy tensed a little but played it off. “Honestly, I see my mother’s boldness in you too.” Folke shifted in his position in his chair and stroked his young son’s hair. The child was completely undisturbed in his slumber. “I imagine it was Karla who sent you after Asger.” “He is lucky to know a mother’s love so strong,” Korsy confirmed. “What else does he have?” Folke sighed and waved a hand. “I will grant you permission to the Deep with your demon pet, however if it activates teleportation, it will be put down. We are well aware of the distance restrictions of demons. We will find it.” “Dusty prefers he/him pronouns,” Korsy said politely. He put his hands together. “But thank you.” “Your transfer request will be deliberated on,” Folke dismissed. “You will have to wait.” “How long?” “Until tomorrow.” “You’re letting me sleep over? I’m flattered.” “You may sleep in the barracks. Leave my sight.” Korsy bowed out and tried not to look too hurried as he left his uncle behind.

“No, no,” Korsy said, although they had a few bumps along the way with such sudden travel booking. “Don't concern yourself with us anyhow. I came to see if I can help. Can you explain to me again how my cousin got into this mess?” Karla sighed, her fingers gripping her teacup. “My son, you know, he is so naïve sometimes… As he told me, he was just trying to help these people, but they are from Mörkret.” “The Dark Realm?” Korsy asked. “He found people in the Dark Realm? There are only monsters there.” “He said he found elves,” Karla said. “Not like us but he believes they are. He believed they belong here with us, but they were all detained at the border. Even my Asger.” Korsy frowned. “And my uncle can't have him released?” “It is his father that wants him there,” Karla said, with acidity in her voice. “He thinks he needs to punish him, make an example of him. But you know your uncle. He is a cruel unreasonable man.” Korsy nodded slowly, a dark shadow cast across his face. He patted his aunt's hand. “Good thing you left when you did.” Karla pouted, her expression melancholic. “I feel so foolish ever falling for such a man. I should have seen through him, but he used to be so charming and warm. It is like his heart was frozen, ever since…” She trailed off, glancing at Korsy then back to her tea. Dusty noticed Korsy stiffen a little and could only wonder what she could have been referring to. He dared not pry for now though. “Anyway, Asger asked me to contact you,” Karla continued. “He believed that you could help him. I do not know what his plan was, but if there is something you can do, I would be very grateful.” “I don't know…” Korsy leaned back and rubbed his neck. “I've never bailed anyone out of elf jail before… But perhaps, if I met these people my cousin was talking about, then I might see why he’s so keen on protecting them.” “So, you will go?” Karla asked. “I can provide you safe enough passage there. They will not bother you.” Korsy shook his head. “I don't care about their remarks, I know what my family thinks of half elves like me… I'm more concerned about what finding help from me might do to my cousin's reputation.” “Do not worry about anything like that, you know your cousin thinks well of you,” Karla said. “He would not ask if he did not trust you.” “I couldn't break his trust, could I?” Korsy stood up and stretched. “Should we get to it, then?” “Oh, so eager! You remind me so much of your mother,” Karla said, chuckling to herself. “But we will have to wait until late tonight. Security has gotten stricter. No one can enter the city by day.” “Really? That's so unnecessary. I imagine this is my uncle's doing as well?” Korsy assumed. “You imagine correctly. But you do not need to worry, you and your friend can stay and have dinner with me, and then we will go,” Karla said. “Now please, you must properly introduce me. This poor thing has been sitting here so patiently listening to me lament. Who is this handsome man?” “Sorry. This is Dusty,” Korsy introduced. “He is my—” “Are you Elliot's boyfriend?” Karla asked expectantly. “Oh, for now, we're just work partners,” Dusty said, offering a hand and playing up the charm. He turned his head to Korsy, smiling devilishly. “Elliot?” Korsy just rolled his eyes. “I'm training him. He's new. We happened to be in Prague when you called.” “Oh, that's too bad. Your mother would've loved to know you found someone special,” Karla said. “I'm sure she's watching and waiting for you to find such happiness.” Korsy frowned. “I am doing perfectly well on my own.” “Well, I hear Elliot does have his eyes on someone, but he won't tell me,” Dusty gossiped. Korsy shot him a glared. “Oh, really?” Karla patted Korsy's arm. “That makes your tant feel better. You're getting older, you know, I don't want to worry you're alone.” “I'm really fine,” Korsy said. “And I'm not alone. I have friends. But that's it.” “Sure, sure,” Karla brushed off. “I understand. You kids like to keep things so secret until you're sure.” “One second, I'm ‘getting older' and now I'm a kid,” Korsy complained. His aunt caressed his cheek. “You know you'll always be little Elliot to your family. But you are of course an adult and you should really start thinking about settling down.” “Karla, could you please call me Korsy?” Korsy asked. “It's tradition you know.” “Ah, I'm so sorry,” Karla apologised, withdrawing her hand, only to place it on his arm. “I forgot, you know. And your mother gave you such a beautiful name. I wouldn't want to forget it. But you want to be Korsy, you are Korsy.” “Thank you,” Korsy said, patting her hand. She smiled and sat back. “Now, that Korsy name is tradition for your father's family. Don't you want to pass it down? You could become…what's the whole name?” “Korsgaard,” Korsy answered, getting uncomfortable. “But Karla, I'm not—” “You could be Korsgaard with your own little Korsy,” she said. “Yeah,” he folded. “Maybe one day. But not right now.” “Of course, of course.” “Auntie, I've never been to Stockholm before. Is there anywhere I should see before we leave tonight?” Dusty interrupted. “Oh, this is your first visit? Of course!” Karla was all grins. “I will give you the tour. There is a lot to see so we should get to it!” As his aunt got up to put their teacups away, Korsy gave Dusty an appreciative glance. “Thank you for that,” Korsy said. “Don't mention it, Elliot,” Dusty teased. “Don't you start too.” “I won't, I won't.”

“Hello.” “Ollie! Hey, um…” “What do you want?” “Why do you have to sound like that? I just want to talk to you about something.” Ollie huffed. “Then talk.” Jeffrey audibly took a deep breath. “Um, so I told you I gave birth a while ago.” “Yeah… Congrats. I saw the pictures.” “Yeah. So, um, you haven't met Noe in person yet, and I was wondering if I could come over?” Ollie sighed. “Jeffrey…” He didn't really want his cousin in his space right now, but this was family, and he had been thinking about meeting this new baby. “Wait, where are you staying?” “I'm still at APID right now.” “I'm there right now, so just tell me where to go.” “Oh, okay! This is good. I was going to have to ask Korsy to drive me, but now I don't have to bother with him…” Ollie could hear a recognisable ‘Hey!’ in the background of the call and he froze up a little. “Korsy's with you right now?” “Yeah… He’d updating me about Bler stuff and he wanted to see the baby, but it didn't feel fair that he'd meet them before you. He's not family.” “You're right about that. Kick him out.” Ollie could hear that Jeffrey had moved away from his phone but could still make out him saying, ‘See? He doesn't want you around either. You don't need to drive me, so go away.’ Korsy's answer was inaudible, but Jeffrey came back groaning. “He won't go. He says he's gotta supervise.” “He doesn't have to supervise shit! He's just making excuses!” Ollie growled. “Well, I can't get him to go away, so are you coming or not? I thought you liked this guy.” Ollie groaned in frustration. “Just tell me where to go.” Jeffrey told him his section and room number, so Ollie asked the nurse at reception how to get there. “Do you have a pass?” she asked. She wasn’t the nurse he was used to, and her blank expressions made him a little nervous. “I have this pass,” Ollie said, showing the key card he used to get in to see the doctor. “That'll only get you as far as the medical ward,” the nurse explained. “You need a visitor's pass to get to the residences.” “Can I get one here?” Ollie asked. “My cousin lives here.” The nurse sighed, shaking her head. “You need to call ahead to the front desk. In non-emergency situation, it can take a week to process a pass.” “That's absurd!” Ollie said. “My cousin just had a baby and I'm just trying to visit for the first time. I'm his closest relative.” “As cousins?” the nurse inquired. “Yes. I'm even his emergency contact.” “Well, contact,” the nurse said. “Contact the front desk upstairs. Now, do you have any question related to your care here today, or can I check in the next person behind you?” Ollie didn't want to hold up the line, so he stepped aside and reluctantly called Korsy. “Hello!” Korsy greeted, all too cheerfully. “Korsy,” Ollie said directly. “Come get me.” “Huh? I thought you were coming here,” Korsy said. “I don't have access. I assume you do.” “Ah, right. Are you at medical?” Ollie paused. “Just meet me at the main entrance.” “Got it. I'll see you there.” Ollie just hung up and made his way to the elevator. He was the first to the main entrance, but as soon as he sat down, the other elevator opened and Korsy stepped out. As soon as his gaze found Ollie, he smiled and walked over, arms wide. “Hey!” Ollie frowned and got up but refused the hug. “Korsy, I’m still not ready. I just want to see my…nibling, right?” “That's right. I've also heard nix or niephling,” Korsy said. Ollie pulled a face. “I dunno about that last one…” Korsy shrugged. “Up to you, I guess. The kid can't speak.” “Right…” Ollie walked back over to the elevator. “Let's go.” “Yeah, I'm coming.” Korsy and Ollie hopped back in the lift and Korsy swiped his personnel key card. The buttons for the floors he had access to lit up and it was nearly all of them. Ollie was a tad jealous, but it only made sense for someone working there. In the elevator, Korsy tried to start a conversation, but Ollie cut him off. “I'm not here for you, to be clear. I appreciate you facilitating this visit with my cousin, but I'm not ready for us to talk again.” “Okay. I just wanted to update you,” Korsy said. “Update?” Ollie frowned. “Why?” “Because I'm gonna be away for a bit,” Korsy said. “Two months. Europe.” “So?” Ollie said. “You've been away before. That's part of your job.” “Right. But before, I'd let you know when I'm back, but since you insist on messaging me first, I wanted you to know when and how long I'd be away, in case you reach out and I can't answer,” Korsy said. “I don't want you to think I'm ignoring you.” “Why wouldn't you be able to answer?” Ollie said. “It's the 21st century. Everywhere has wifi and you can't tell me APID doesn't afford you a roaming plan.” Korsy smirked a little. “They do, but sometimes I gotta go to really remote places with no connectivity.” “Remote?” Ollie raised an eyebrow. “In Europe? One of the most densely populated places in the world?” “There’s still some nooks and crannies.” The doors opened, and they stepped out. Ollie ended the conversation there and just looked for the room number Jeffrey gave him. He didn't have to look too hard though as Jeffrey was waiting outside, sitting with Ben. Ollie approached quickly. “Jeffrey.” “Ollie, hey…” Jeffrey got up slowly and leaned against the wall. “That was fast.” “Yeah, I had—Oh.” Ollie was startled as Ben was suddenly hugging his legs. “Hey, Benny…” He reached down and ruffled the little guy's hair. It warmed him a little to see that his nephew still missed him. “It's been a little bit, huh?” Ben still wasn't the most articulate one year old and could only grip Ollie's pants tight. “Awie.” “Alright. Up you go.” Ollie managed to get him off his leg so he could pick him up. “Jeffrey, where's this baby I'm supposed to meet?” “They're inside asleep,” Jeffrey said, not moving. “So…are you going to let us in to meet them?” Ollie asked. Jeffrey pouted. “They just settled down… I don't want to wake them.” “You can't leave the baby alone in there unsupervised,” Ollie said. “I know, but listen, it is so hard to get Noe down for a nap, and they cry so much, like, can't I just have a minute?” Jeffrey pleaded. Ollie frowned but really Jeffrey did look rather exhausted. “Then stay out here and I'll go in myself. I didn't come down here just to hang around in the hall. You asked me to come meet the baby.” “…” Jeffrey looked at the door and just shrugged. “Okay, okay…” He unlocked the door, and it slid open. The lights were out inside, but there was a nightlight plugged in over the crib at far left side of the room. From its dim illumination and the light from the hall, Ollie could see the mess of the room and overall disarray. He didn't know why he would expect any better from Jeffrey, but it was a bit disappointing to see. Ollie went up to the crib and looked in. The baby inside was fast asleep, sucking on a pacifier. Ollie had never met Wano, so he had no idea what manner of alien to expect, but this purple babe seemed only significantly inhuman in one department. “Holy shit, Jeffrey,” Ollie said, turning back as his cousin made his way up behind him. “You gave birth to a toddler.” “Shh, Noe is perfectly normal size for their species,” Jeffrey said. “Can I see?” Korsy asked, now very curious as he waited by the door. Ollie waved him over. “You have to see this baby. This kid's probably bigger than Ben already.” Jeffrey gave his cousin a quick punch in the arm. “Stop.” Korsy approached swiftly and as quietly as he could, but when he saw Noe, he forgot himself. “Whoa! That kid’s ready to do taxes!” “Korsy!” Ollie snapped back quietly, but it was too late. Noe started to stir, and an achy little whine started up behind the pacifier. Jeffrey’s voice audibly broke. “No…” “Shit, I'm sorry,” Korsy said. Jeffrey reluctantly reached into the crib and lifted Noe out. The pacifier was promptly spat out and Noe started crying, wriggling about and pulling on Jeffrey's clothing. “Noe, come on, you need a nap,” Jeffrey pleaded weakly, trying to bounce his baby gently. “I need you to nap…” Ollie watched as Jeffrey struggled to even just hold the upset infant and he looked to Ben in his arms who just watched his sibling without saying a word. The two kids couldn't be any more different. “Are they hungry?” he offered. “They're never not hungry,” Jeffrey said, exasperated. Nevertheless, he sat down on the bed and lifted his shirt. The babe latched on as soon as their mouth was close enough and started feeding hungrily. “Eager beaver,” Korsy commented. “Don’t watch me nurse,” Jeffrey snapped, covering Noe’s head. “You got me here and you saw the baby,” Ollie concurred. “You can go now, Korsy.” “Come on, really?” Korsy groused. “I can’t just hang out for a bit?” “This isn’t some kind of chill session or something,” Ollie said. “My cousin and I have things to discuss.” “Do we?” Jeffrey pulled a face as he laid his head back against the headboard. “I don’t think we do… I just invited you to see the baby and that’s it.” “I think we need to talk about your current living conditions,” Ollie said, motioning to the disaster that was the room. “How do you expect to raise two kids in this mess?” Jeffrey just closed his eyes as he shrugged. “Really, Jeff, your cousin just wants to know you’re gonna be well off,” Korsy said. Jeffrey didn’t respond to that. Ollie huffed and put Ben down on the bed. “You can’t just ignore all your problems.” “He’s asleep,” Korsy stated. “No, he’s just pretending so he doesn’t have to talk to me,” Ollie said. “No, I think he’s actually asleep,” Korsy said, putting his hands on his hips. “He would’ve gotten mad at me for calling him ‘Jeff’.” Ollie narrowed his eyes and then touched his cousin’s shoulder. “Jeffrey. Hey, Jeffrey.” Jeffrey didn’t answer and his head rolled to the side. “Damn, he’s really fast asleep,” Ollie said, a bit dumbfounded. “I mean, you saw how tired he was,” Korsy considered. “Looked like he was gonna collapse. New babies can be rough.” Ollie sighed, sitting down gently on the edge of the bed. “Noe’s definitely a different baby than Ben. He hardly ever cried.” “Noe’s two babies in a trench coat, I think,” Korsy said. “No way your cousin gave birth to that small giant. I can’t believe it.” Ollie pet Ben’s head gently. “You wanna come outside with your uncle Ollie while your daddy takes a nap?” Ben nodded quickly, starting to scoot towards the edge of the bed and dropping a leg down. Ollie scooped him up and went to the door. “Korsy. Out. Let’s go.” “I’m coming!” Korsy said, following him. They went back out into the hall and Ollie closed the door behind them. Hopefully Jeffrey could get some good sleep in for a bit without them. “Is there a park or something around here?” Ollie asked. “I doubt Ben's had a chance to run around… Wait, Ben can you walk yet?” He put the baby down, stood him up, and Ben clumsily toddled towards him. “Geez, I missed a lot with you…” “They grow up really fast,” Korsy said. “Can't be there to see everything.” Ollie looked at Korsy. “So, is there a park or what?” “Yeah, yeah. There's a park at the school,” Korsy said. “We can go over there. I'll show you.” Korsy took them up and outside, over to APID E and their schoolyard. There were two different playgrounds set up: one small squishy one for the kindergarten and one big jungle gym for the elementary school. They took Ben down to the squishy one and Ollie slipped him into a baby swing. “I used to take Ben to the swings outside my apartment,” Ollie said, making sure Ben’s legs were properly through the holes. “I know he doesn't emote very much but I'd get a few baby giggles out of it.” Korsy sat down on the wood logs that framed the parks and watched them. “I want to hear Ben giggle. I don't think I've heard that.” “Let's see.” Ollie stood in front and gave Ben a little push. Ben stared at him looking shocked and his legs started to wiggle. “Oh yeah, the giggles are coming. Those are giggle wiggles.” Ben grabbed the chain of the swings and continued to stare at Ollie. Ollie gave him a smile and kept pushing him, a little higher each time. “You're flying, Ben.” Ben started to smile, and he kicked his feet out when he went backwards excitedly. After some build up, he started giggling, kicking his legs about every time Ollie pushed him back. “Oh wow! Look at that,” Korsy said. “A real giggler!” Ollie chuckled a bit. “Yeah, you love the swings, don't you, Ben?” Ben didn't stop giggling, and just bounced about in his seat. “Most energy I've ever seen from that kid,” Korsy said. “Ollie, you're really good with babies.” “Just this one,” Ollie said. “Ben's a very calm and attentive kid. Hardly any trouble.” “I see that.” Korsy propped his head up over his knee. “But I think it's more about how you know how to talk to him and understand him. I'm sure you'd even be fine with a baby like Noe.” “Oh god… If they cry as much as my cousin's saying, I think I'd go mad,” Ollie said. “It's not like Ben never cried. And I'd miss work after nights without sleep. I can't deal with that.” “I mean, was your work understanding at least?” Korsy asked. “Yeah,” Ollie said. “Honestly, I had to bring Ben in with me once and my boss thought he was mine and gave me the day off… I was kinda surprised, but apparently, they take family building really seriously there. Next day she was like ‘You should have let me know you were going to have a baby and we would've set you up with paternity leave and yada yada yada’ and I had to break it to her that I was just watching my nephew. I was still off the hook for the day off though.” Korsy chuckled. “Yeah, APID's really chill about that stuff too. If I ever had a kid, they'd make sure we were taken care of.” “That's good, I guess.” Ollie kept his attention on Ben. “You wanna go higher?” Ben nodded. “Up! Up!” Ollie pushed him a little higher, making sure to back up so the momentum didn't swing the kid right into his chest. “Ollie…” Korsy started. “You were at a doctor's appointment today, right?” Ollie frowned. “I already said I don't want to talk about it.” Korsy pouted. “Why not? We're just talking. I just want to make sure you're all good.” “Well, I'm not all good,” Ollie said. “But I don't need to discuss with you.” “Not good?” Korsy blanched. “You're not—” Ollie groaned. “I'm not pregnant, Korsy! Geez, get over it.” “Okay, okay,” Korsy put his hands up. “But then what's not good?” “I still have the damn organ,” Ollie admitted. “The doctor said taking that drug as much as I did might've made it permanent.” “Shit,” Korsy said. “That sucks, dude. I'm sorry.” “It's frustrating…” Ollie started to slow Ben's swings down. “That crap could affect my body for the rest of my life. My body, my sex life, my hormones, who knows what…” “That's rough. I don't know what to say,” Korsy said. “And thinking about it,” Ollie went on, “Jeffrey's probably taken it way more than me. His is probably permanent too. So even though they confiscated that powder shit, he can still go out and have as many random alien babies as he wants with dudes who are just going to leave him in the end.” “Come on, have some faith in your brother. Wano's coming back and Eclulans don't fuck around,” Korsy said. “Cousin.” “Huh?” “You called Jeffrey my brother.” “Oh. Sorry, I mean,” Korsy scratched his head, “Is there any meaningful difference? You were raised together, right? You love him like a brother, right?” “Still a cousin.” Ollie shrugged. “You call Ben your nephew.” “Yeah. He's my cousin once removed, you want me to call him that every time?” Ollie huffed. “Anyway, it's not Wano I'm worried about this time. It's Jeffrey. I don't think he'll last a year without someone to fuck around with.” “So, you think Jeffrey's going to cheat on Wano?” Korsy asked. “He’s up to his neck right now,” Ollie said. “Only way he knows how to ‘solve' his problems is to find a man who'll solve them for him.” Korsy knit his brow. “You really think that lowly of him. You don't think he might've learned something after Bler?” “Don't say that name.” Ollie stopped Ben's swing. “Jeez, sorry… I mean, I hate that guy too, you know.” “If it wasn't for him, Jeffrey and I both wouldn't be in this mess,” Ollie said. “Sure, but you wouldn't have Ben, right?” Korsy said. “You love this kid.” “Ends don't justify the means.” Ollie looked over to Korsy. “Now, I know you have a question so just ask it.” Korsy squirmed a little. “So, I mean… You told me we aren’t friends until you’re clear of the uterus business.” “Yep.” “So, what now? Are you just not going to have sex for the rest of your life?” “Can you not say that in front of Ben?” Korsy waved his arms. “You literally just said like a minute ago and you’ve sworn like so many times! And you told me to ask my question, I woulda waited.” Ollie rolled his eyes. “Well anyway, I don't know what I'm going to do yet. The doctor said it's possible I could have a surgery to remove it, but that kind of stuff… I mean surgery is scary, right?” “I guess.” Korsy thought about it. “Actually, I saw a video yesterday by a girl who said she had a bad reaction to anesthesia and was rendered permanently paralysed below the waist…” Ollie’s eyes widened. “Are you kidding me right now? Don’t tell me that! That’s terrible! Now I’ll never be comfortable with a surgery.” “I mean that was an incredibly rare reaction,” Korsy said. “It has a one in a million chance in happening and it already happened to her, so you’re clear.” “That is not how statistics work, Korsy, holy hell,” Ollie frowned. “I am literally a statistician.” “Is that what you do?” Korsy rubbed his neck. “You never told me.” “You never asked,” Ollie said. “That sounds really boring, damn,” Korsy said. Ollie rubbed his forehead. “It’s mostly just differential and integral calculus. Really, it’s kinda easy.” “You’re talking to straight Cs in math here,” Korsy said. “I don’t even know what a calculus is.” Ollie scrunched his nose. “Anyway, right now I don’t want to get in bed with anyone any time soon until this is all figured out.” “I mean, contraceptives are a thing,” Korsy said. “We could just, ya know, start using them.” Ollie pursed his lips. “You can’t take a no?” Korsy was taken aback. “I can 100% take a no! I’ve been taking nos! It’s just like, I don’t know that you even like hanging out with me if it’s not because we’re…doing it.” “We’re hanging out right now and we’re not doing it,” Ollie said. “You didn’t want me here at all though,” Korsy said. “Because you keep probing me about this sex stuff!” Ollie said. “Well, if we don’t have sex, will you still see me?” Korsy asked. “Stop saying sex!” “You just said it, so I said it! That’s like literally the whole thing! I don’t need it all the time, but our relationship was just that because that’s what you wanted so I gave it to you! It’s not the only thing I do! I can be platonic!” They both went quiet and just looked at each other. Ollie looked back to Ben was just staring up at him from the swing. Ollie sighed and pet Ben’s head. “I guess… If you really just want to hang out to hang out, we can do stuff like that.” “Yeah! Okay, cool.” Korsy licked his lips. “See, we figured it out, right?” “Yeah.” “We just needed to talk it through. Imagine that.” “Yeah…” Ollie looked at Korsy. “So, I guess then if I can’t contact you, you can message me after you get back from your trip.” Korsy lit up. “Yeah? You’re giving me permission to call you?” “To message me. Just to hang out and stuff.” Korsy nodded quickly. “Yeah, just to hang out and stuff.” Ollie’s phone started to vibrate so he answered it. “Hello?” “Ollie!” It was Jeffrey and he sounded worried. “Do you have Ben?” “Yeah, don’t worry. We just went out to the park.” “You should’ve told me! I woke up and he was just gone, I…” “Relax, you were exhausted,” Ollie said. “We just took him off your hands for a bit so you could nurse Noe in peace. We’ll bring him back now.” “We? You’re still with Korsy?” “Yeah, he showed me where the park at APID was.” “There’s a park?” “What? You mean you never took Ben to the park?” “I didn’t know there was a park. We’re in the middle of nowhere. How would I know where to go?” “You just ask somebody. Really, it’s not that hard.” “Just come back right now. Noe’s asleep again so I gotta take advantage to give Ben a bath.” “We’re coming, relax. Clean up your floor.” “Bye. Ollie.” Jeffrey hung up. Ollie rolled his eyes and put away his phone so he could take Ben out of the swing seat. “Come on, big guy.” “I’m coming,” Korsy said, getting up. “I was talking to Ben.” “Oh.”