#with feferi

FEFERI: -BURSTS INTO THE FRAY, fresh from her shipmen duties. If Aradia is anxious, Feferi has no idea of it at first.- )(ey!!! Is Jo)(n )(ere yet?

JOHN: -HE had been napping. He still looks slightly unkempt when walks in- hey you crazy kids. pfft.

JOHN: -stops- what the fuck. -stops- your bed is made of bones? i slept on that thing and i didn't even notice.

JOHN: that is WILD.(edited)

ARADIA: -she's just sitting on the floor, glancing at her bed- oh yeah you never noticed?

ARADIA: it definitely is

JOHN: -goes over and touches it-

FEFERI: I know rig)(t?? Feel t)(em! T)(ey're so reel. 38) -touches them also-

JOHN: eeeeeeeeeew....hehehe -giggling-

ARADIA: -it's hard for her to concentrate on what they're saying, but she knows she can't delay it too long- could i um

ARADIA: talk to you guys?

JOHN: -looks up at her, still smiling as he takes a seat on her bed.- yeah of course.

FEFERI: -she can't sit down! She's too EXCITED.- )(m? S)(ore!

ARADIA: -she's read about the importance about being on equal levels during important conversations, but they're at three different ones, and maybe it's more significant than she realizes- you know i love you both right

FEFERI: -the smile starts to fade, the second she starts registering the look on Aradia's face. She feels more confused than anything suddenly.- )(u)(?

JOHN: -something definitely isn't right. aradia doesn't usually sound unsure of herself to his knowledge. he's looking at her closely.-

ARADIA: you know that

ARADIA: right?

FEFERI: Yes? -she feels a little panicked but is doing her best not to show it. No, it's best to listen to what Aradia was saying.-

JOHN: well...we didn't say it yet, hehe but i think we've both showed it.

JOHN: -he's baffled-

ARADIA: yeah exactly

ARADIA: but even though i do

ARADIA: i

ARADIA: dont think its enough

JOHN: ! -now he's not smiling anymore-

FEFERI: I... um. -fins are slowly pinning against her neck-

FEFERI: I don't understand?

JOHN: -he slowly gets down from the bed and tries to reach for their hands. it just seems like he should be comforting them right now but he's distracted and worried.-(edited)

FEFERI: -can't really bring herself to respond to the hand holding her. Her impulse is to recoil from any comfort but instead. She doesn't move, keeping her eyes trained on Aradia.-

ARADIA: i have been feeling

ARADIA: like i shouldnt be in this anymore -she wants to look down but she can't do that. she owes them at LEAST meeting their gazes- that something has been missing ARADIA: you know?

JOHN: -he's slowly processing this. still looks more puzzled than upset. his face doesn't show extreme emotion like feferi but his voice is what sounds more DISTRESSED- what? but......-pauses- why?

FEFERI: -She's afraid to know and says nothing.-

ARADIA: -she's actually tearing up right now- i know its selfish of me

ARADIA: to want to stay friends after doing this

ARADIA: but i dont want to lose you

ARADIA: i just knowt his isnt how things are supposed to be

JOHN: -he's squeezing their hands a little more firmly honeslty because he's floored and doesn't know what to do. he doesn't want ARADIA to cry but Feferi looks just as bad even though she's not crying. he's looking at aradia in the eyes now-. well, listen. i didn't know there was anything wrong. i thought we were doing good. i...mean. isn't there something we can do it to work on it?

JOHN: what's been bothering you so much?

ARADIA: thats just it

ARADIA: we were doing good

ARADIA: we were perfect

ARADIA: but the truth is

ARADIA: something feels off because of it

FEFERI: W)(at do you mean? Off? -just looking at her, watching her closely-

ARADIA: like there is something in the way

ARADIA: thats making it hard for us to be

ARADIA: as connected? i dont know if that makes sense

FEFERI: ... -winces a little bit and looks off-

JOHN: -just look at Feferi...and looks at Aradia.-

ARADIA: i dont have ARADIA: what you two have

JOHN: ..we have a strong connection for sure. -HE HOPES. he still sounds distressed and overwhelmed. honestly scared.- but i thought i was the third party here. you guys had a strong connection before i was even around.(edited)

FEFERI: -She's doing no better than John. The frown is very present on her face, unwilling as she is to acknowledge the deeper feelings.- We're supposed to.

ARADIA: yeah

ARADIA: are you saying that both of you dont feel it

ARADIA: what im feeling

JOHN: -he's looking between them again....waiting....but when nobody else talks he takes initiative again, though his voice is more subdued-. i trust you when you say there's something wrong. i don't think you'd lie about it. i guess i just....didn't notice it. -AND HE FEELS BAD ABOUT IT. what kind of boyfriend is he?-

JOHN: but...i feel like there's something more here.

JOHN: you guys have this long history and i dont know too much about it, okay? but it comes up a little bit sometimes.

JOHN: and i just get this feeling like

JOHN: maybe this doesn't have AS much to do with me? ...but you know i wish it did because heh, then maybe i could fix it....-trails off and goes quiet.-

FEFERI: -she hated that he had to be here, to see this happen and know there was nothing she could do about it. A hand comes to press at her face, willing herself to calm down. She's been doing so much better lately. She can do this.-

FEFERI: If t)(ere's somet)(ing in t)(e way... we can fix it can't we? Don't... you want to fix it? -swallows hard-

FEFERI: Can we fix it? )(ow long )(as it...

FEFERI: )(ow long )(ave you felt t)(at way?

ARADIA: thats just it

ARADIA: i dont even know what it is

ARADIA: neither of you are doing anything wrong at all

ARADIA: ive felt it for a while i guess

FEFERI: But...

FEFERI: W)(at do you -EXP-ECT to feel? -she can't help the rise in her tone then- FEFERI: )(appy? Accepted, rig)(t? But it's still not enoug)(??

JOHN: -he's just standing there, frowning.-

ARADIA: it doesnt feel right

ARADIA: its so hard to explain

ARADIA: so its just me?

JOHN: -pipes up- well...you keep asking that. so you must have a theory. do you think we're unhappy too?

JOHN: i've been happy. happier than ever, actually but....i don't have much experience.

ARADIA: no i just want to know because

ARADIA: you havent really answered it

FEFERI: I'm )(APPY, Aradia. But you...

FEFERI: You're saying t)(at's not enoug)(? -giving her a good long hard look- You're not t)(e one w)(o's )(appy )(ere. And for anot)(er...

FEFERI: You're saying t)(e connection isn't t)(ere? Are we... not actually as close as we s)(ould be?

FEFERI: Is somet)(ing... going on? W)(at )(as made you start t)(inking about all of t)(is? -She's trying her best to understand and that means. Asking a lot of questions.-

ARADIA: im saying that

ARADIA: something feels off

ARADIA: like were trying as best as we can and we love each other but

ARADIA: like i said

ARADIA: theres something there and i dont know what it is but it feels like a romantic relationship is not where we should be

ARADIA: i guess sometimes

ARADIA: its a feeling that to be completely good about this

ARADIA: something is in the way or gone or both

FEFERI: Well t)(at's FIN-E, but... -She trails off, the emotions receeding helplessly before surging back at full force, threatening and bubbling over.-

FEFERI: But???

FEFERI: It's just so -EASY for you! To just?? -vague agitated hand gestures before throwing them up in the air, her voice cranked signifcantly-

FEFERI: D-ECID-E you don't want to be a part of somet)(ing anymore! Maybe it's not working and MAYB-E someone isn't doing enoug)( but t)(at's not your problem, )(u)(!!! You don't )(ave to deal wit)( it!!! You can just DROP SOM-EON-E w)(enever you want to!

FEFERI: )(ow )(as t)(at -EV-ER been fair????

JOHN: -he's not sure what's worse, seeing Feferi be so upset, seeing Aradia cry and flounder or just being the silly extraneous asshole who doesn't know what to do about it. But at least they're talking. He's not going to interrupt. :(-

ARADIA: -she looks at her slowly, definitely not expecting this- what are you talking about? ARADIA: i dont want to drop you and you and john are amazing partners and its nothing either of you are doing wrong

ARADIA: this is hard for me too

FEFERI: If we're not t)(e ones doing anyt)(ing wrong, w)(at about you?

FEFERI: W)(at if YOU'R-E t)(e one w)(o's doing somet)(ing wrong?

FEFERI: Do you not want us to talk about t)(at? Or point it out or... make you feel like you CAN'T be wit)( eit)(er of us because if we do, it'll be t)(e worst most. Glubbing.

FEFERI: Awful t)(ing to realize you're t)(e reason it's not working. And it's N-EV-ER going to work and it's ALL YOUR GLUBBING FAULT.

FEFERI: Is t)(at w)(at you want????

JOHN: -This is intense. Too intense for him. Guess whose continuing to just stand there being a silly extraneous asshole as his relationship falls apart? This guy. What a champion.-

ARADIA: -she's actually feeling frustrated now, something she hasn't felt in a while. and it's weird, feeling this emotion toward feferi- what if i am doing something wrong? you havent told me ive been doing anything wrong so please

ARADIA: enlighten me!

FEFERI: I just T)(INK it would be easier for you if you just.

FEFERI: Pretended like it was nobody's fault and moved on wit)( your life, totally unknowing of w)(at you actually did.

FEFERI: Because you really don't KNOW w)(at you did! And maybe it's better t)(at way?? It really s)(ouldn't matter anymore!

FEFERI: I've always wanted you to be )(appy. I've always wanted to MAK-E you )(appy. You've always been FIRST in my life and I've TRI-ED SO GLUBBING )(ARD to put your feelings before myself! But...

FEFERI: W)(en )(ave you -EV-ER done t)(at for me??? W)(en )(ave you -E-VER made me feel like I was t)(e most important troll to you?

FEFERI: Never.

FEFERI: And w)(en it mattered t)(e most? W)(en I N-E-ED-ED you to tell me I still mattered and you would be t)(ere for me.

FEFERI: You weren't.

FEFERI: You c)(ose Sollux. And Sollux c)(ose... w)(o t)(e glub knows!!!! )(e never told M-E about it! It was always you!

FEFERI: I mig)(t as well )(ave not MATT-ER-ED to you or )(im. You two were gone before I could even say )(elp me. It didn't matter )(ow it left me feeling.

JOHN: -Oh....-

ARADIA: -this actually catches her very off guard, and in a mix of frustration and hurt, the tears flow more freely now, but she doesn't dare take her gaze away from feferi- are you

ARADIA: is this from when i was

ARADIA: a robot

FEFERI: I don't know! I )(ave a F-E-ELING it started way before t)(at.

FEFERI: I just... -rubs her arms, the pink filling up her eyes too. But she refused to let them fall.- I wanted to tell myself it wasn't )(ow you actually felt about me.

ARADIA: -and finally, she gets it. the pain she's caused feferi for so long, why feferi was always scared of aradia leaving her. .everything came together, and she had missed it all. it dawns on her that she had not paid enough attention to feferi's feelings throughout her absence of life. because it was just easier to leave those darker parts of her in the past. but those darker parts had hurt feferi, and at the core, it was still her that did those things.-

ARADIA: feferi

ARADIA: -she takes a deep breath- i didnt realize

ARADIA: i should have but i

ARADIA: i am so sorry

FEFERI: -sniffs and continues rubbing at her arms. Then scrubs at her eyes- It's fine.

JOHN: -he's still within range of their hands. after a few seconds pass he reaches for them again. they're both just so hurt by this. he can't fault them for anything right now regardless of how he may feel. - :(

ARADIA: its not though

ARADIA: its not fine that i

ARADIA: that i made you feel like you could be easily forgotten about or left behind

ARADIA: that even alive i -she takes a shaky breath- i didnt make you feel like the most important thing in my life

ARADIA: because you were

ARADIA: you are

ARADIA: what i said to you was inexcusable

ARADIA: you deserved so much better than that and i should have been the one to take care of you

ARADIA: i could try to blame it on the fact that i wasnt myself

ARADIA: but even if i wasnt i still made a choice

ARADIA: and thinking about it now im

ARADIA: kind of disgusted with myself

FEFERI: -it makes her crumble a little hearing Aradia speak about herself like that and slowly, she drifts closer.- Please don't be, Aradia. T)(at's... t)(e last t)(ing I want you to feel.

FEFERI: About yourself?

FEFERI: You make everyt)(ing make sense to me and I feel like... I can do anyt)(ing. I can make anyt)(ing )(appen if I really want to.

FEFERI: I don't necessarily )(ave to make you feel t)(at way but... t)(at's w)(at you are to me.

ARADIA: you really are so important to me

ARADIA: and you always have been

ARADIA: and im so sorry for ever making you doubt that

ARADIA: i messed up and you shouldnt have experienced what you did because of me

ARADIA: i should have picked up on it sooner

JOHN: -This is good. It sounds like they're making progress. It sounds like that was a conversation that was necessary for a long time. So why does he still have nothing to say? His eyes trail the ground, flicking up occasionally to watch them.-

FEFERI: It's not... t)(e end of t)(e world. -brushes some of the streaks of Aradia's tears from her face-

ARADIA: -she sniffles- the fact that i didnt even pick up on it helps solidify why this isnt going to work

ARADIA: a matesprit should be so much more in tune with you and your feelings

FEFERI: Aradia, sweetie... -takes her face up with both hands now- If you really t)(ink it's for t)(e best, t)(en you break up wit)( someone.

FEFERI: I want you to do t)(is for t)(e rig)(t reasons. Not because you made a mistake or you don't t)(ink you make me )(appy. Because you do. Mistakes are somet)(ing we can fix.

FEFERI: I want you to do it... for you. Because you're going to find yourself again.

ARADIA: -she looks at her, still sniffling and nodding- there you go again

ARADIA: case in point ARADIA: putting me first

ARADIA: -she smiles a little-

FEFERI: Silly... It's always been like t)(at. -presses a small kiss to her forehead-

ARADIA: you mean so much to me and

ARADIA: ananya loves you so

ARADIA: can we please stay friends?

FEFERI: I don't t)(ink you could get rid of me if you tried. -only then does she caution a glance to John- ...Jo)(n?

JOHN: -He didn't space out or anything but he did the the thing where he forgot how to talk for a second.- uhh....

ARADIA: im sorry john

ARADIA: i understand if its too much to ask

JOHN: no, its not! i just....

JOHN: i don't want you to be out of my life either. i mean jeez. i got ...-ow this is harder than he could've pictured.- i got to know you so well.

JOHN: if this is really how it has to be...of course i don't want you to fake it or be in something only half way. so

JOHN: yeah....

JOHN: and to be fair maybe i didn't really know you that well. maybe i know you better now than i did before?

JOHN: i think so.

ARADIA: -she takes a deep breath- this really

ARADIA: really sucks

ARADIA: john please know that you did nothing wrong

ARADIA: i loved what i had with you

ARADIA: just like i loved what i had with feferi

JOHN: -mmmmmmmmmmm..... yup this is really harder than he

anticipated.-

JOHN: -takes a deep breathe and gives her a small sad, smile.- i know. i ...don't regret us being together, OK? a lot of good things would never have happened otherwise

JOHN: but maybe we should take a break? we've kind of said...what we needed to say and i dunno about you guys but ...i'm exhausted.

ARADIA: -nods slowly- ok

ARADIA: yeah

ARADIA: me too

FEFERI: Yea)(... -wringing her hands, anxious for John.-

FEFERI: I'm going to um... go back to my room. -focuses on Aradia for now-

FEFERI: You can come see me any time you want.

JOHN: oh....uh...-UNSURE FOR A SECOND.-

FEFERI: You can come too, Jo)(n.

JOHN: haha! yeah... okay. -thank God-

ARADIA: -she nods- ok ill remember that -wipes the tears from her eyes- ill ARADIA: see you guys later

JOHN: yeah. -he kinda looks at her, looks around feeling sad...but it doesn't seem appropriate to do anything but leave.-

FEFERI: -lingers long enough to squeeze her hand before also. Turning with John to leave.-

[09:01] FEFERI: *Aradia being a nerd is totally expected of her. Feferi sits on the floor of her block, doing some light workouts. I.E. stretches, sit-ups, push-ups all the good stuff. But it's only good for so much.* ...Ug)(. I wis)( we )(ad a pool on t)(is s)(ip. *pulls herself to sit and crosses her legs with a pout*

[09:06] ARADIA: -she looks over from her husktop down to feferi- i know ananya would appreciate it too

[09:07] ARADIA: for now you have a bath but thats really not the same :p

[09:08] FEFERI: T)(e bat)(tub mig)(t as w)(ale be a glubbing PUDDL-E. W)(at's t)(e point!

[09:12] ARADIA: its too bad we are on a winter planet or else we could find somewhere else to swim

[09:14] FEFERI: I reely like t)(e idea of exploring wit)( you. *touching her toes* I don't t)(ink we ever got t)(e c)(ance!

[09:14] FEFERI: By ourselves, anyway.

[09:15] ARADIA: i like the idea of exploring with you too -she closes her husktop so her full attention is on feferi-

[09:15] ARADIA: and i know we arent supposed to go too far out

[09:15] ARADIA: on this planet anyway

[09:34] FEFERI: For no reason besides it's R-----E-ELY cold! *sticks her tongue out at her*

[09:34] FEFERI: Okay so t)(ere are ot)(er reasons too. I still don't sea it as fair!

[09:35] ARADIA: what if we made our own place to explore? -she looks around the room- im sure we could make something interesting here...

[09:51] FEFERI: W)(at's in )(ere to explore except maybe... my storage blocks?? *frowns in their direction* I totally )(ave no idea w)(at's in t)(ose anymore.

[09:53] ARADIA: which makes a perfect excuse to explore them!

[09:58] FEFERI: O)( my cod.

[09:58] FEFERI: W)(at t)(e glub do you t)(ink is even IN t)(ere???

[09:58] FEFERI: If you say treasure, you're probubbly rig)(t.

[09:59] ARADIA: i wasnt going to say treasure but if there is we might as well find it right?

[10:01] FEFERI: FIN------------E!!! *stands to march over to the storage blocks* W)(ic)( one did you want to look t)(roug)( first?

[10:02] ARADIA: -grins and slides off the bed to go join her. she's cute when she throws a fit like that.- how about the biggest one?

[10:06] FEFERI: T)(e biggest one? *if she could, she'd be sweating a little bit. What even IS in there? Twirling through the inventory hub, the screen displays what appears to be... cuttlefish. A lot of dead cuttlefish. Holy guacamole that's a lot of dead cuttlefish.*

[10:06] ARADIA: ...

[10:06] ARADIA: were you going to eat those or

[10:07] FEFERI: No! T)(at's, um...

[10:07] FEFERI: My pile.

[10:08] ARADIA: so you sit in it

[10:09] FEFERI: T)(at's w)(at a pile is for! Du)(!

[10:13] ARADIA: with tavros?

[10:18] FEFERI: *Oh. Now she's blushing.* I've never broug)(t it up! Usually )(is pile is just... a bunc)( of Fiduspawn )(osts. T)(ey're so cute and cuddly!

[10:19] ARADIA: aw yes they are!

[10:19] ARADIA: doesnt it smell in there?

[10:20] ARADIA: with the fish not the fiduspawn hosts

[10:20] FEFERI: It's not like t)(ey're out in t)(e OP-EN.

[10:20] FEFERI: Plus, I like t)(e smell.

[10:20] FEFERI: Cull me!

[10:21] ARADIA: oh ill cull you all right

[10:21] ARADIA: ...that didnt sound like i wanted it to sound

[10:22] FEFERI: You can certainly try. *grins at her and starts flipping through more inventory hubs* W)(ic)( ot)(er one did you want to look at?

[10:22] ARADIA: the second biggest one

[10:23] FEFERI: )(mm!!! *peers at it and then perks her fins* It's t)(e treasure I was telling you about!

[10:24] ARADIA: then i think we found our jackpot!

[10:24] FEFERI: Most of it I found myself but a lot of it was given to me as presents over t)(e sweeps.

[10:24] ARADIA: id love to see them!

[07:06] FEFERI: *Oh well, in that case. Feferi just kind of DUMPS this huge rolling pile of gold, treasure, and other various precious items. It's hard to imagine that her pile of dead cuttlefish is even bigger than this pile.* Weeeee!!!!

[07:07] ARADIA: -her eyes widen in amazement- feferi!

[07:09] FEFERI: W)(at?

[07:09] ARADIA: this is so amazing! -approaches the pile, not even sure where to START-

[07:10] FEFERI: It kind of is, isn't it? *fishes a necklace out. It's the huge ocean colored amulet giftd to her from Mindfang. It's still so pretty!*

[07:11] ARADIA: whats the oldest thing you have in here?

[07:12] FEFERI: Oldest? *glances that way but then just... drags her trident out of her sylladex* Tada! 38)

[07:13] FEFERI: Do you know )(ow many reigns of -Empresses and )(eiresses )(ave )(eld t)(is?

[07:13] ARADIA: how old is it anyway? -she looks at the trident, nothing entirely new here-

[07:13] FEFERI: Wave older t)(an t)(e Condesce t)(at's for s)(ore!

[07:14] ARADIA: seriously? wow...

[07:20] FEFERI: )(e)(e, it's kind of )(ard to imagine, I bet.

[07:21] ARADIA: its just such an honor

[07:52] FEFERI: T)(at, and you're a )(uge glubbing nerd. *nudges her*

[07:54] FEFERI: So...

[07:54] FEFERI: Did you want some of t)(is treasure?

[07:56] ARADIA: -she looks over at feferi- really?

[07:57] FEFERI: Yea)(! It's not like I'm using it or anyfin.

[07:57] FEFERI: C)(oose anyt)(ing you want! 38D

[07:58] ARADIA: sure! id love to study really any of this

[08:00] FEFERI: Maybe you can figure out w)(ere it all came from!

[08:15] ARADIA: expect to hear a lot about it feferi

[08:15] ARADIA: youve given me a reason to find and spout much more information

[08:15] FEFERI: T)(at sounds... almost like a t)(reat. *Don't be mistaken. Those are hearts in her eyes.*

[08:17] ARADIA: it can be :)

[08:17] ARADIA: -she looks at feferi and then the pile and then feferi again.- can i try something really quick

[08:18] FEFERI: Try somefin? *tilts her earfin curiously*

[08:21] ARADIA: yeah just -she carefully sits on the pile of treasures and it's a LITTLE HARD but just KNOWING she's on such valuable artifacts, some older than she can imagine, well...it's enough to make it feel comfortable. she reaches out for feferi's hand- kiss me?

[08:33] FEFERI: *Oh... Feferi stares on a little bit, watching Aradia settle onto the gold pile. At her question, she blinks and ends up smiling, taking up her hand. There, she brings her knuckles up for a kiss.*

[08:36] ARADIA: -she giggles at that. feferi sure knows how to make someone feel like royalty.- thats really nice

[08:37] ARADIA: try here? -she points at her own mouth-

[08:38] FEFERI: )(m!!!! *giggles, really starting to enjoy this game* Can I t)(ink about it?

[08:38] FEFERI: *dramatically starts smooching up her arm*

[08:39] ARADIA: -more giggling from aradia, too, as she feels feferi's lips go up her arm- i mean if thats your method of consideration

[08:39] ARADIA: take all the time you need :p

[08:50] FEFERI: Well I can try but- *smooch smooch peck* T)(ere's not guarantee I can reel myself in!

[08:51] ARADIA: -she's blushing a little- so do i have to reel you in then?

[08:56] FEFERI: No! *mozies up to Aradia, a smirk on her face* I can reel myself in.

[09:00] ARADIA: oh so youre sure now -shes grinning widely back at her-

[09:03] FEFERI: Absolutely! I can't explain w)(y exactly... *twines a finger in a stray lock of Aradia's hair*

[09:09] ARADIA: -she holds her breath for a moment- maybe youre inspired

[09:59] FEFERI: T)(at's a reely good t)(eory! *blood pusher is fluttering as she leans into kiss Aradia* ...You're )(ired.

[10:03] ARADIA: -she meets her lips with a gentle hand on feferi's cheek, kissing her sweetly- as your inspiration?

[10:37] FEFERI: *has begun purring* My inspiration slas)( best frond!

[10:41] ARADIA: -nuzzles feferi as she begins purring and kisses her again- thats a position i wont refuse

[10:41] ARADIA: especially on these artifacts

[10:41] ARADIA: i think this is the epitome of happiness right here

[10:42] FEFERI: *snuggles into Aradia and rests her head against her* Yea)(... I t)(ink so too.

[10:44] ARADIA: -runs her fingers idly through feferi's hair and kisses her head- i have something incredibly cheesy to say

[10:45] FEFERI: O)( no!!! Not t)(e c)(eese! *says it like YES PLEASE FEED HER THE CHEESE*

[10:46] ARADIA: i think ive found

[10:46] ARADIA: my favorite treasure

[10:46] ARADIA: :)

[10:46] FEFERI: *snrrrrrrrrKKKKK* O)( my COD.

[10:46] FEFERI: *she has to sit up*

[10:47] ARADIA: hahahaha!!!!

[10:47] FEFERI: T)(at was CRAWFUL! *and she is delighted by this*

[10:48] ARADIA: but you loved it nonetheless

[10:49] FEFERI: It's just... everyt)(ing in t)(e universe )(as )(appened t)(is way just so you can make t)(is c)(eese extra c)(eesy compliment... *marvels, so impressed*

[10:49] FEFERI: I'm speec)(less.

[10:50] ARADIA: it was fate

[10:50] ARADIA: everything has led up to this moment -she can't even keep a straight face, she's laughing so much-

[11:06] FEFERI: You set me up! *pokes at her tum, OFFENDED*

[11:07] ARADIA: kind of

[11:07] ARADIA: only a little

[11:07] ARADIA: that only came to me while i was already sitting here

[11:07] ARADIA: really i just wanted to know what it felt like to kiss you while sitting on a pile of artifacts

[11:08] FEFERI: I )(ave to say it's pretty ---EXCITING. *grins at her*

[10:17] AA: hey feferi

[10:18] CC: O)(.

[10:18] CC: )(i Aradia.

[10:18] AA: is this a bad time

[10:19] CC: Umm, not really? I was just resting.

[10:19] AA: i just wanted to check up on you and see how you were doing

[10:20] CC: I'm doing a lot better.

[10:20] CC: T)(ank goodness Tavros is )(ere.

[10:20] AA: im thankful hes there too

[10:20] AA: and im glad to hear it

[10:20] AA: im also relieved to hear that you are resting!

[10:22] CC: You know I can keep going for a long w)(ile.

[10:22] CC: Not t)(at t)(at's... necessarily a good t)(ing all t)(e time??

[10:22] AA: trust me i know :p

[10:23] AA: but your endurance is pretty spectacular

[10:33] CC: T)(at's totally an appropriate way to word a compliment!

[10:34] AA: something tells me you mean it isnt but if im being honest i cant really tell!

[10:36] CC: W)(at a way to compliment a girl on )(er ability to go and keep going.

[10:36] CC: 38;0

[10:37] AA: oh

[10:37] AA: ohhhhhhhhhh

[10:37] AA: well!

[10:37] AA: i mean!

[10:37] AA: its...

[10:37] AA: its true both ways

[10:37] AA: but did you know

[10:37] AA: fuck i cant think of anything

[10:38] CC: You glubbed it up, Aradia!!! Now I'll N-----EV-ER )(ave a weird deat)( fact to keep me distracted from t)(e great w)(ite earmammot)( in t)(e room!

[10:39] AA: i think this is the first time

[10:39] AA: but that in itself is distraction enough probably

[10:39] AA: because we are already off topic

[10:41] CC: ANYWAY.

[10:41] CC: You were being a fussy fins about me getting rest, I t)(ink.

[10:43] AA: yes it is something you need

[10:43] AA: rest

[10:47] CC: You sound pretty searious about it. S)(ould I be conc)(erned?

[10:49] AA: concerned about me being serious?

[10:49] AA: if i had a smiley will that be better

[10:49] AA: rest :)

[11:03] CC: )(e)(e)(e)(e!

[11:03] CC: R--------------EST. 38)

[11:03] AA: youre right that sounds much better

[11:03] AA: ill smile when i tell you in person too

[11:04] CC: No! You can't do t)(at!

[11:04] CC: I'll end up wanting to do anyt)(ing you want me to!

[11:04] CC: -Except falling asleep.

[11:04] AA: im that persuasive am i?

[11:04] AA: :) :) sleep

[11:04] CC: Pretty persuasive.

[11:05] AA: good to know

[11:05] AA: ill keep that in mind!

[11:05] CC: )(-E)(-E)(-E, it doesn't WORK t)(e same way on Trollian, dummy!

[11:05] -- artifactualAnnihilation [AA] sends smile.jpg --

[11:05] AA: hows that

[11:06] CC: T)(at's... a little better.

[11:06] AA: look at that and imagine me telling you to rest

[11:07] CC: Because sleeping is t)(e closest t)(ing a living person can get to being D----------EAD. 38D

[11:07] AA: its pretty miraculous isnt it?

[11:07] AA: i almost have a tear in my eye

[11:08] CC: It's ------EXCITING.

[11:08] CC: And also, I love you.

[11:08] CC: <3

[11:08] AA: i love you too

[11:08] AA: <3

[11:19] CC: Glub.

[11:20] CC: I never seem to tell you t)(is enoug)( but...

[11:20] CC: You always manage to make me feel better no matter w)(at is going on.

[11:20] AA: want to know something interesting?

[11:21] CC: Interesting?

[11:22] AA: yes

[11:22] AA: you do the same for me

[09:34] CC: W)(ale t)(at's one reass)(orance.

[09:34] CC: T)(ank you, Aradia.

[09:36] AA: i only speak the truth

[09:36] AA: hows ruleus doing?

[09:36] CC: I t)(ink )(e's doing okay. I only got to sea )(im for a little w)(ile.

[09:37] CC: And t)(en I t)(oug)(t... it would be better if I didn't.

[09:37] CC: Not w)(ile everyt)(ing was )(appening.

[09:38] AA: if you ever need me to give him some one on one time

[09:38] AA: just let me know

[09:38] AA: id be glad to take him out of the infirmary for a while when i get ananya

[09:40] CC: It's not like I could T--ELL )(ow )(e was doing.

[09:40] AA: thats true

[09:40] AA: it was nothing you could really help because you were needed and you rose to the occasion

[09:41] CC: I know. But still... I'm worried about )(im a little bit?

[09:41] CC: Maybe it's not)(ing.

[09:41] AA: what do you mean?

[09:42] CC: )(e's just not cuddly like t)(e ot)(er wrigglers are!

[09:42] AA: i dont think its anything to be concerned about

[09:42] CC: Not t)(at I expect )(im to be clingy but... )(e also doesn't like a w)(ole lot of contact. It's kind of )(ard to explain?

[09:42] AA: oh i see

[09:42] AA: so that part worries you

[09:43] CC: It just doesn't seem to matter w)(et)(er )(e's alone or wit)( ot)(er people! T)(at's all.

[09:43] AA: i suppose his independence is also a good thing

[09:44] AA: as that is how we are presumably by nature

[09:44] AA: but it is interesting watching all of the wigglers now and seeing how much they depend on us

[09:46] CC: )(mm...

[09:46] CC: I guess I would feel better if I knew )(e was making connections wit)( ot)(er people.

[09:51] AA: like other wigglers? or other people in general?

[09:52] CC: Bot)( preferably!

[09:52] AA: i suppose in cases like this you just have to ask yourself if hes happy

[09:54] CC: Maybe )(e is )(appy and I'm just being a fussy lusus.

[09:55] AA: just remember its perfectly ok if hes happy

[09:55] AA: if hes happy without people

[09:56] CC: But so young??

[09:57] AA: yes

[09:57] AA: how is he with cully?

[09:57] AA: or any animals?

[09:58] CC: )(e seems to like Cully!

[09:58] AA: see? theres someone

[09:58] AA: even if cully is without a soul

[09:59] CC: But if I leave )(im alone wit)( my cuttlefis)(, )(e'll try fig)(ting t)(em.

[09:59] CC: T)(at's pretty normal!

[09:59] AA: yes!

[10:06] CC: Maybe t)(ere really isn't anyt)(ing to worry about.

[10:06] CC: Glub.

[10:08] AA: give it time feferi

[10:08] AA: its going to be ok

[10:41] CC: T)(ank you, Aradia.

[10:42] AA: youre welcome babe :)

[10:42] AA: anytime you need me to remind you of that

[10:42] AA: ill be here

[10:45] CC: I know, sweetie glub.

[10:51] AA: when everything calms down again

[10:51] AA: after we rescue our friends

[10:52] AA: maybe we can do some relaxing together

[10:53] CC: I would really like t)(at.

[10:53] CC: Maybe if )(e's feeling up to it, Jo)(n could come too?

[10:53] CC: I )(aven't even spoken to )(im at all.

[10:53] AA: oh of course

[10:53] AA: he will be happy to be invited by you

[10:54] AA: he...felt pretty awful

[10:54] AA: about everything

[10:54] CC: I could tell t)(at muc)(.

[10:55] CC: Ug)()()()(, w)(y does everyt)(ing )(ave to be suc)( a M-ESS.

[10:55] AA: i think this is pretty tame for losing about half our crew

[10:55] AA: but thats just me!

[10:03] CC: I reely don't blame )(im. I know )(e was only trying to kelp. 38(

[10:03] AA: he really cares about you feferi

[10:03] AA: i can see that

[10:03] AA: its sweet

[10:03] CC: I know.

[10:04] CC: )(e IS sweet and t)(oug)(tful and sometimes??

[10:04] CC: I forget t)(at it's me )(e's in a quadrant wit)(.

[10:04] CC: Kind of.

[10:06] AA: what do you mean?

[10:07] CC: It's silly!

[10:07] CC: Spacifically me being silly. 38P

[10:07] CC: Anyway! I s)(ould probubbly look into getting some more sleep.

[10:08] CC: I'm still t)(e designated )(elmstroll after all.

[10:08] AA: you are pretty silly :p

[10:08] AA: and please get some rest

[10:09] CC: I will!

[10:09] CC: If only to keep you from being a fussy gills.

[10:09] CC: <3

[10:09] AA: <3

[10:10] AA: good

[10:10] CC: I love you, Aradia.

[10:10] CC: And I miss you already!

[10:10] AA: i love you too and i miss you all the time!

[10:10] CC: Glub glub glub glub!

[10:10] CC: S-----------EA YOU!!!!!!

[10:11] AA: bye!

[04:29] FEFERI: *In the middle of a jog, there's nothing stopping Feferi from entering the East Communal room. It's good to explore the ship she's driving, isn't it? Of course, Aradia is the first person she spots as she patters to a stop.* )(ey! Are you off your s)(ift?

[04:31] ARADIA: -she looks up at the sound of feet running and grins as she sees feferi, setting her book down- i am!

[04:31] ARADIA: and youre getting your exercise in for the day i see

[04:33] FEFERI: Yes! Glub. I've been feeling so cooped up lately. *stretches her arms far over her head and then slumps, making a face.* We don't even )(ave a pool for me to do laps in! 38(

[04:33] FEFERI: I t)(ink I mig)(t go STIR CRAZY.

[04:34] ARADIA: and im guessing an ablutions trap isnt quite the same -she smiles sympathetically- i cant wait until we land

[04:34] ARADIA: so i can go outside!

[04:36] FEFERI: If anyt)(ing, t)(e ablution trap is good for naps. *makes her way over to sit by her. She gives her book a curious look.* Water you reading t)(ere?

[04:44] ARADIA: -she sits up and shows feferi her book: karkat's old gift to her. the book of poems from edgar allen poe- its a collection of poems by a human poet

[04:44] ARADIA: ive read it before but i wanted to read it again

[04:57] FEFERI: O)()()(!!! *takes the book in her hands and gives it an eager look over.* Wasn't )(e famous on -Eart)(? )(e wrote a lot of funny stories, I've )(eard!

[05:00] ARADIA: yes he was! its all great

[05:00] ARADIA: this is probably my third time reading all of them through

[05:09] FEFERI: )(e)(e, you mig)(t be able to commit t)(em to memo-ray at t)(is rate. *flips through the pages and hums, glossing over the words.*

[05:09] FEFERI: It's been a little quiet lately, )(asn't it?

[05:09] FEFERI: W)(ere's Ananya? 38?

[05:13] ARADIA: it really has

[05:13] ARADIA: maybe the rooms are just more soundproof than the last ship

[05:14] ARADIA: ananya is sleeping and porrim is watching her

[05:14] ARADIA: shes tired today :)

[05:15] FEFERI: Awww, poor guppy.

[05:16] FEFERI: It's sad s)(e doesn't )(ave a pool to play in eit)(er. *deepened sad face* And I )(ave no idea )(ow Ruleus is going to learn.

[05:17] ARADIA: yeah :( i worry about that sometimes

[05:17] ARADIA: because when shes in water is the only time that she can be as active as she wants

[05:19] FEFERI: We'll )(ave to get one built! *snaps book shut and hands it back to Aradia.* One way or anot)(er!!!

[05:20] ARADIA: -she takes the book and capchalogues it- we can make it happen! im sure we are already fixing this place up anyway

[05:20] ARADIA: might as well add a pool

[05:20] ARADIA: even if it isnt as extravagant as the last one

[05:28] FEFERI: Yea)(... it's kind of a s)(ame! But we'll )(ave to make t)(e most of it. *DRAMATIC sigh and shakes her head*

[05:28] FEFERI: I swear, it's like we're living like TROUTLAWS or somet)(ing.

[05:28] FEFERI: Can you believe t)(is???

[05:31] ARADIA: -she can't help but smile at how adorable feferi looks when she talks like that- but we are troutlaws :)

[05:34] FEFERI: I know but we s)(ould be like t)(e COOL kind. T)(e ones t)(at get swimming pools, obviously! *giggling*

[05:37] ARADIA: -she laughs with her- what kind of outlaws have you seen? im interested in these ones

[05:38] FEFERI: Um??? Didn't I say?? T)(e cool ones!

[05:38] FEFERI: We s)(ould totally ask Mindfang and sea )(er opinion about it. 38)

[05:43] ARADIA: i always associate outlaws with less for some reason

[05:43] ARADIA: you know traveling light

[05:43] ARADIA: keeping their valuables in small compact chests

[05:43] ARADIA: that end up to be cursed items

[05:49] FEFERI: Well... -strokes her chin- We reely don't )(ave any cursed items to put in c)(ests yet.

[05:49] FEFERI: I t)(ink we're slacking on t)(ose duties!

[05:50] ARADIA: theyre cursed because they were taken from underground temples recklessly

[06:00] FEFERI: But... are t)(ey magic??? >38?

[06:02] ARADIA: yes! in this situation yes

[06:02] ARADIA: -she looks really excited-

[06:03] FEFERI: W)(at would t)(e curses do??? Or )(ave done? *honestly curious about this*

[06:06] ARADIA: well if they were connected with a spirit they could bring bad luck

[06:06] ARADIA: intense bad luck that death would be following them everywhere they went

[06:06] ARADIA: depends on the curse really!

[06:07] FEFERI: And t)(is )(as to do wit)( us being outlaws )(ow??

[06:09] ARADIA: i may have gotten a little bit distracted

[06:09] ARADIA: and based my answer off of indiana jones instead

[06:09] ARADIA: :D

[06:27] FEFERI: O)( my cod. *snorts* I can't believe I've forgotten about t)(at.

[06:27] FEFERI: It's actually been a w)(ile since I've seen t)(ose movies!

[06:28] FEFERI: *thinks about it* Maybe... since before you died!

[06:29] ARADIA: well we can watch them together if you want!

[06:29] ARADIA: i dont mind!

[06:30] FEFERI: And you expect me to say no?

[06:35] ARADIA: -well, now she's so excited her wings are fluttering- you want to watch it now?

[06:39] FEFERI: S)(ore! W)(y not? *starts to stand, smiling about all the excited wing flutters* I'm totally not busy! 38)

[06:41] ARADIA: -she stands, too.- we can marathon them!

[06:43] FEFERI: Sounds fun!!! Is your block closer?

[06:44] ARADIA: yes i think so! :) -she holds out her hand- have you seen them before?

[06:46] FEFERI: Only t)(e first one! And like I said, it was a long time ago. *easily takes her hand and walks along. Suddenly, she perks up.* Actually... I don't t)(ink I've been to your block before!

[06:47] ARADIA: -she looks over at feferi, surprised.- wait really?

[06:47] ARADIA: you definitely havent been to this one i guess

[06:47] ARADIA: wow

[06:47] ARADIA: !

[06:49] FEFERI: )(e)(e, I guess not.

[06:50] FEFERI: And you know? I don't t)(ink I've )(ad too many people over eit)(er.

[06:50] ARADIA: have i even been to your new room?

[06:50] FEFERI: Of course! You, Tavros, and Jo)(n!

[06:53] ARADIA: oh right! i think i get your two rooms mixed up sometimes

[06:53] ARADIA: -they end up approaching aradia's room!-

[07:01] FEFERI: Is t)(is it? *looks at it curiously and then at the other door.* W)(o's next door? 38?

[07:02] ARADIA: -she nods and eagerly punches in the code, still holding onto feferi's hand- meulin is actually :)

[07:02] ARADIA: and yes it is my room!

[07:02] ARADIA: -the door opens and aradia pulls feferi inside-

[07:03] FEFERI: Lucky!! I don't even KNOW w)(o my roommate is. I never see t)(em!

[07:03] FEFERI: Maybe I don't )(ave one? *rambles and is pulled*

[07:07] ARADIA: maybe you get two rooms then? you could put a lot of stuff in two rooms

[07:07] ARADIA: because lets face it feferi

[07:07] ARADIA: you have a lot of stuff

[07:07] ARADIA: -she grins at her and turns on her light, immediately going over to get her husktop-

[07:08] FEFERI: Um, well Y-ES, maybe. *crosses her arms and pretends to look annoyed* So w)(at??

[07:10] ARADIA: im just saying you could fill two rooms with all of it -she's laughing at feferi's pretend-annoyed face as she turns her husktop on and hops on her lovely bone bed with it-

[07:12] FEFERI: Well I'm SORRY, I was used to living in palace )(ives and )(aving w)(ole block wings to myself! *also hops on bed*

[07:12] FEFERI: Living in t)(at block kind of makes me feel like I'm on t)(e inside of a tuna can.

[07:12] FEFERI: Not t)(at I'm COMPLAINING.

[07:13] ARADIA: -she pauses setting up the movie to lean over and kiss her on the fin- not that youre complaining! -and she searches her collection for TROLL INDIANA JONES 1, which happens to be way more violent and way more exciting than the first one-

[07:15] FEFERI: *puffs her cheeks at the fin kiss* But I'm not!

[07:15] ARADIA: nope! youre just used to extravagance

[07:15] ARADIA: i get it ;)

[07:37] FEFERI: I'm just US-ED to more space. *huffs like a total brat. She is the queen of brats, obviously.* Maybe I will ask -Eridan for t)(e second room!

[07:42] ARADIA: -tfw ur girlfriend is a really cute brat. aradia presses play and leans back next to feferi- think hes going to give it to you?

[07:45] FEFERI: Well, )(e is pretty leniant wit)( t)(e stuff I ask of )(im. *makes sure to keep their fingers twined together* And it's never anyt)(ing OUTRAGLUBOUS or UNR-EASONABUBBL-E so I don't sea w)(y not!

[07:52] ARADIA: -she squeezes feferi's hand and looks over at her with a grin- well you tend to be pretty persuasive regardless

[08:26] FEFERI: Am I really? *flutters her fins and draws her eyes to the TV screen.* I could just know w)(at I want.

[08:26] FEFERI: T)(ere's no )(arm in t)(at!

[08:26] FEFERI: Also, is it me or was troll )(arrison Ford really cute w)(en )(e was younger??

[08:34] -- coaxialCoralition [CC] gave up trolling artifactualAnnihilation [AA] at 20:34 --

[08:37] -- coaxialCoralition [CC] changed their mood to OFFLINE --

[10:55] -- coaxialCoralition [CC] changed their mood to CHUMMY --

[10:55] -- coaxialCoralition [CC] changed their mood to ECSTATIC --

[10:56] ARADIA: yes really -she looks over at her and goes to look back at the screen- you know what you want and youre pretty good at getting it too

[10:56] ARADIA: and oh yes he is definitely cute

[10:56] ARADIA: at any age

[11:09] FEFERI: I'm reely curious about t)(ose curses you're talking about. *watching with perked fins* Do you t)(ink t)(ere's any trut)( to t)(em?

[11:09] FEFERI: Or... t)(ere could be in reel life??? 38)

[11:09] FEFERI: I wonder w)(at it takes to curse an item!

[11:10] ARADIA: oh sure! where there are spirits there are curses

[11:10] ARADIA: and i know well enough by now that there are spirits

[11:10] ARADIA: or i should say where there are curses there are spirits

[11:12] FEFERI: So... in order to make a curse, you )(ave to )(ave a spirit?

[11:14] ARADIA: nothings set in stone but its certainly what i believe

[11:14] ARADIA: and all of the evidence ive seen points to it

[11:24] FEFERI: Do you t)(ink any spirits would be interested in cursing an item for us? Like ANY IT-EM?? )(ow do you t)(ink t)(is works???

[11:26] FEFERI: *she is way too invested in this topic of conversation*

[11:27] ARADIA: hmmm -she thinks about it- well i also think that the spirits that curse items are vengeful dead spirits

[11:27] ARADIA: they are souls that are too angry to pass on to the other side

[11:27] FEFERI: Awww, poor guppies.

[11:28] ARADIA: while they may be interested in cursing items i would not want to bind them to them

[11:38] FEFERI: O)(, crabcakes. *makes such a disappointed sigh*

[11:38] FEFERI: Well... at least I know it's doable! 38)

[11:38] FEFERI: And t)(at's pretty cool!

[11:41] ARADIA: i agree

[11:41] ARADIA: also it makes for good stories!

[11:41] ARADIA: like this one

[11:54] FEFERI: )(m!!! Is it based on a real person? It seems like it is.

[12:00] ARADIA: it could be! i actually havent looked into it

[12:00] ARADIA: but i want to!

[12:01] FEFERI: I bet t)(e )(istorical figure is WAY more interesting t)(an t)(e t)(eatrical version. T)(ere's just some aspects to t)(e story movies aren't able to capture!

[12:05] ARADIA: oh i definitely agree

[12:05] ARADIA: me and eridan were thinking about making a history show actually

[12:05] ARADIA: we talked about it a long time ago

[12:08] FEFERI: Do you know )(ow cool t)(at would be?

[12:08] FEFERI: Maybe you s)(ould bring it up to )(im again??

[12:09] ARADIA: im definitely going to! its something i think we are both reallly looking forward too

[12:09] ARADIA: since we both are such history buffs

[12:21] FEFERI: )(e)(e! )(istory buffs or just )(uge nerds??

[12:22] ARADIA: -she pokes her in the arm with her free hand- are they exclusive?

[12:25] FEFERI: It depends! Are you talking to eac)( ot)(er or to me? *pokes her back with a grin*

[12:27] ARADIA: are you calling me a nerd feferi? -such a big grin-

[12:27] FEFERI: I t)(ink t)(at's exactly w)(at I'm doing!!!

[12:27] FEFERI: But, you know. It's true, of course.

[12:30] ARADIA: even if its true

[12:30] ARADIA: youre into it

[12:30] ARADIA: :)

[01:03] FEFERI: *laughs* Well I can't K-ELP it. Nerdy people )(ave stuff to be passionate about!!!

[01:03] FEFERI: And it's just SO CUT-E.

[01:05] ARADIA: -she can't help her cheeks growing a bit more maroon- you have a point there

[01:05] ARADIA: but under that definition youre a nerd too

[01:06] FEFERI: W)(at?? I can't be a nerd!

[01:06] FEFERI: I )(ave LOTS of t)(ings to get ---EXCIT-------ED over!

[01:06] ARADIA: so youre a mega nerd

[01:07] ARADIA: i believe thats the term

[01:12] FEFERI: Okay, no. T)(e term is a W)(AL-E of a nerd and I'm not!

[01:12] FEFERI: W)(at am I a nerd about???

[01:29] ARADIA: youre a nerd about all things aquatic :)

[01:29] ARADIA: and keeping busy

[01:30] FEFERI: Um, because I )(ave a R-EASON. It's totally w)(at I'm swimclined to do!

[01:31] ARADIA: -she idly and lightly strokes feferi's arm- mhm

[01:32] FEFERI: *eyes her*

[01:32] FEFERI: Do you reely t)(ink I'm a busy body??

[01:33] ARADIA: i think you do everything you can despite the time it takes up

[01:33] ARADIA: but lately im also guilty of the same

[01:35] FEFERI: I can't kelp it. *sounds a little whiny* I just like moving and feel like I'm doing somet)(ing!

[01:35] FEFERI: Anyway, t)(e point is, I'm not a nerd about it.

[01:38] ARADIA: i know -she smiles- youre cute though

[01:40] FEFERI: T)(at's only one qualification. *sniffs*

[01:42] ARADIA: then i guess youll have to settle for just being cute

FEFERI: I t)(ink it's been establis)(ed already!

FEFERI: Anyway... t)(is movie is really good! And kind of c)(eesy even. *But she LOVES the cheese!* Aren't t)(ere like a krillion sequels??

ARADIA: -she laughs and nods- so many! and this is only the first

ARADIA: i have all of them too

ARADIA: i could watch them forever!

FEFERI: *sighs with contentment and falls quiet for a while, just watching the movie.*

ARADIA: -she happily watches the movie with her, but every now and then she can't help but look over at her also. just to watch her reactions at the parts that always excited her.-

FEFERI: *Dammit! Aradia is the cutest person ever to watch movies with. It just makes the whole thing that much more special.* So... if you )(ad t)(e c)(oice of exploring one or t)(e ot)(er, would you explore t)(e ruins of a temple or t)(e a )(UG-E s)(ipwreck?

ARADIA: a temple -it doesn't take her long at al to answer- hands down! a shipwreck is pretty interesting though

ARADIA: what about you? -grins at her-

FEFERI: A temple too probubbly! *laughs* W)(en you've seen one s)(ipwreck, you've seen t)(em ALL.

ARADIA: see i thought you would pick a shipwreck!

FEFERI: But t)(ere would be plenty to enjoy at a temple too!

FEFERI: Variety is t)(e spice of life, Araglub. *tiny smooch on her cheek*

ARADIA: -she smiles at the smooch- do you remember when we were both at that one temple

ARADIA: and that water made us so energized? whatever it was?

FEFERI: Yes, I do remember! As muc)( as I can, anyway. 38)

FEFERI: T)(at's w)(y I t)(ink it would be fun to visit anot)(er one!

ARADIA: that was actually really funny

ARADIA: well i would love to visit another one with you!

FEFERI: It would be SO dangerous.

ARADIA: but so fun too

ARADIA: we could collect artifacts

ARADIA: and take pictures and

ARADIA: i wouldnt mind kissing you in a temple

FEFERI: *snorts a laugh* For t)(e pictures of course!!!

FEFERI: I totally get you. 38;)

ARADIA: we take good pictures together

FEFERI: I know! And I'm not s)(ore if you remember but... your robot self took a bunc)( too!!!

FEFERI: At least I t)(oug)(t s)(e did? It was for my wriggling day!

ARADIA: i do! and i still have the pictures

FEFERI: )(u)(! And )(ere I t)(oug)(t t)(ey were destroyed wit)( your c)(assis.

ARADIA: no i definitely still have those!

ARADIA: its kind of interesting to look at them and then look at the ones we have together now

FEFERI: )(mm... yea)(. *her smile turns small.* And even t)(e ones from B-EFOR-E all t)(at.

FEFERI: T)(ey're different.

ARADIA: they really are

ARADIA: -she quiets for a moment- did i ever tell you how grateful i am that you stuck with me through everything?

FEFERI: O)(... You don't need to tell me.

ARADIA: -she turns onto her side

ARADIA: , facing feferi with a more somber expression on her face- i know but it still -she pauses to collect herself- it still means a lot to me

ARADIA: so much

FEFERI: *lets out a deep, deep sigh. It's almost like she's carried with her for a while.*

FEFERI: You were w)(at meant a lot to me.

FEFERI: Maybe... sometimes I wis)( I could )(ave been better about it.

FEFERI: T)(ere was so muc)( doubt and worry. A lot of times I feel like t)(at's still around? *shakes her head* Alt)(oug)( t)(at doesn't make any sense.

ARADIA: -aradia listens and gently kisses her shoulder, smiling softly and reassuringly- it makes perfect sense to me

ARADIA: you were used to doubting and worrying before because what you went through in losing me

ARADIA: it was traumatic

ARADIA: even moreso due to the confusion of if i was really here or not

ARADIA: when it seemed like me but it still wasnt me

ARADIA: you did the best you could and i know that

ARADIA: i think i knew that even then

FEFERI: *the tiniest of purrs as she kisses her shoulder.* I keep remembering )(ow )(ard it was w)(en you weren't )(ere. W)(en... *swallows dryly* W)(en I couldn't really come to you?

FEFERI: It's like you said. You were )(ere but you weren't. *her free hand twists into the blanket beneath her* Maybe... t)(at's just w)(at I'm afraid of?

FEFERI: W)(at if I try coming to you and you're not t)(ere? Can I possibly bear to go t)(roug)( t)(at again? *She then hangs her head, the weight of her feelings pressing down on her. Feferi cautions a glance at her.* Do you t)(ink it's been... different for you lately? Between us?

ARADIA: -when feferi speaks, aradia watches her attentively, her expression softening- i understand

ARADIA: i know its hard for you to go through what you did with me

ARADIA: what do you mean by different?

FEFERI: *furrows her brow, wondering how she can explain it.* I don't know? I feel like... I'm not s)(aring enoug)( of myself wit)( you.

FEFERI: And logically, t)(at doesn't make any sense.

ARADIA: is that fear holding you back?

FEFERI: I feel like it is. *nods slowly and sighs.* It's not somet)(ing t)(at can be fixed super easy eit)(er.

FEFERI: And it's not like I want to ignore t)(at it's T)(-ER-E.

FEFERI: It's just... t)(at part of our relations)(ip now.

ARADIA: you dont have to ignore it at all

ARADIA: especially if its bothering you

ARADIA: but im -she pauses- im willing to work on it if you are

ARADIA: in whatever way we can

ARADIA: no matter how long it takes

FEFERI: T)(at's )(ow I feel too!

FEFERI: We've been t)(roug)( too muc)( toget)(er to let it define w)(at we are toget)(er. *squeezes her hand*

ARADIA: are there things that you know you havent been sharing? something we can start with?

FEFERI: *thinks on this a little bit* )(mmm...

FEFERI: I kind of feel like I )(aven't been getting out as often as I s)(ould!

FEFERI: I used to like talking to people and )(elping t)(em but now... I feel like I can't do t)(at as muc)(.

FEFERI: Not t)(at it )(as anyt)(ing to do wit)( us )(-ER-E, it's just somet)(ing I've been dealing wit)(.

ARADIA: -she smiles at her- well its a good place to start

FEFERI: *fish faces and pouts*

ARADIA: is it that you dont have enough time? or is the motivation just not there?

FEFERI: I )(ave plenty of time!

FEFERI: I guess... it's a matter of not feeling like I )(ave anyt)(ing to contribute to t)(em.

FEFERI: Like... I used to be able to talk to Rose, Terezi, Sollux, and Latula all t)(e time!

FEFERI: And now, t)(e only people I've )(ad any fun talking to are Vriska and Jo)(n!

ARADIA: oh feferi -her eyebrows lower with concern as she keeps her smile- is there something different with vriska and john that you dont feel with the others?

FEFERI: *scratches a claw against her chin* It's like I said... I feel like t)(ere's not)(ing I can offer t)(em?

FEFERI: T)(ey were t)(ere w)(en everyt)(ing was )(appening.

FEFERI: It's... like I can't come back from some of t)(ese mistakes.

ARADIA: what mistakes?

FEFERI: -Every time it felt like somet)(ing was going rig)(t for me... somet)(ing WORS-E would )(appen. I'd get so lost and feel so weak. I'd make bad decisions and I...

FEFERI: I )(ated t)(at people )(ad to see t)(at part of me. *shakes her head again* I couldn't count on myself to be reliable. Not to me or to ANYON-E.

FEFERI: T)(at's... w)(y it's been so )(ard lately. *looks off*

ARADIA: -she reaches up to put her free hand up to feferi's cheek to push back her hair- thats what friends do

ARADIA: they see the worst parts of you

ARADIA: and they see you at your worst

ARADIA: but they love you anyway

ARADIA: because they believe in your best

ARADIA: its what you did for me

FEFERI: *nuzzles against her palm* I wis)( it felt t)(at way.

ARADIA: i know

ARADIA: it would be easier if it did

ARADIA: but you have so much to offer

ARADIA: even when you cant see it

ARADIA: youre so full of life and honesty and you really do want to help people

FEFERI: I wis)( it was enoug)( to R-EMIND myself of t)(at sometimes. *presses a cool kiss to Aradia's palm.*

FEFERI: But I always end up being dumb about it!

ARADIA: well -she pauses- can i remind you?

FEFERI: *smiles at her again* T)(at's w)(y you're )(ere, isn't it?

ARADIA: yeah it is -she leans forward to sweetly kiss her lips- as much as you need it

FEFERI: *her eyes drift close as Aradia's lips find her's. It was nothing but a warm comfort, one that she wished she could keep with herself forever. The movie has been all but forgotten. Feferi just wants to focus on this shared closeness and the reassuring warmth she finds here.*

[06:14] AG: Peeeeeeeeixes!!!!!!!!

[06:14] AG: Are you there? Europa to Peixes!

[06:14] CC: Vriska!!! )(i!!!

[06:14] CC: Obviously I'm here or I wouldn't be R-ESPONDING. 38P

[06:14] CC: Glub glub glub glub!

[06:15] AG: Well I know that NOW!

[06:15] AG: Ok, so I know we've 8oth 8een 8usy off our asses with new lame ship requirements.

[06:15] AG: 8ut I think we should hang out!

[06:16] CC: Conc)(gratulations! Also... yes! T)(at sounds like a GR---EAT idea.

[06:16] CC: In fact! Since I'm not doing anyt)(ing rig)(t now, I'm coming over!!!

[06:17] CC: I )(ope your block is presentable for ROYALTY, )(e)(e)(e!

[06:18] AG: Oh, it's fine however it is right now!

[06:18] AG: Royalty my ass! Get over here!

[06:19] CC: ALRIG)(T. I'M GOING.

[06:19] FEFERI: *knockity knock knock, there's a fish princess at Vriska's door.*

[06:19] AG: Faster! Hahahahahahahaha! Oh w8.

[06:20] VRISKA: -There's a knock at her door and she presses a 8utton so it slides open. Vriska's room is a mess. Nothing has a spot in here.-

[06:20] VRISKA: Hey!

[06:22] FEFERI: *This is what Feferi expected and ACTUALLY, she's pretty amused by it. Classic Vriska.* )(ey yourself! *grins wide at her and totally lets herself inside the block. She puts hands on her hips and surveys the perimeter.* Isn't t)(ere supposed to be a floor somew)(ere in )(ere?

[06:22] VRISKA: You can SO see the floor. You're 8eing so dramatic!

[06:23] FEFERI: I am not!!! *kicks some of the floor junk aside*

[06:23] VRISKA: Hey, don't kick my shit!

[06:25] FEFERI: O)( well, it's not like you can DO anyt)(ing about it. *skips around the floor space and perches on the nearest sittable surface.* Actually, it kind of looks like you )(aven't left in FOR-EV-ER.

[06:25] FEFERI: Smells like it too. *wrinkles her nose but then laughs. She's just messin'.*

[06:28] VRISKA: -that would 8e the couch- Oh, come on! It doesn't stink in here at all! -Rolls her eyes-

[06:28] VRISKA: 8esides, you were the one who wanted to come here!

[06:29] FEFERI: Yea)(! But it doesn't mean I'm not going to COMPLAIN. *giggles and crosses her legs* I suggest you D-EAL wit)( it! 38)

[06:29] VRISKA: -She waves her off- Whatever!

[06:30] VRISKA: So how's your manager stuff doing with Cronus anyway?

[06:30] FEFERI: T)(e manager stuff?

[06:30] FEFERI: You mean w)(at YOU'R-E taking over now?

[06:31] VRISKA: Oh, shit, really????????

[06:31] VRISKA: I mean OF COURSE I am!

[06:31] VRISKA: Figured I'd just lighten the load a little.

[06:31] VRISKA: Since you're so 8usy!

[06:33] FEFERI: I know! It's reely very )(elpful of you! *twirls a lock of her hair and then flips it a little* And if Cronus wants )(is business to succeed, )(e )(as every rig)(t to c)(oose t)(e best troll suited for t)(e job!

[06:34] FEFERI: And it's not like you're doing anyt)(ing wit)( your time rig)(t now. *chinhands at her* I t)(ink it's a good idea for t)(e BOT)( of you.

[06:36] VRISKA: -She's actually surprised 8y that compliment, 8ut makes sure her expression doesn't give that away- I have a TON of stuff to do. Do you know how many irons i have in the fire, Feferi?

[06:36] VRISKA: Aaaaaaaall of them!

[06:36] VRISKA: Aaaaaaaall the irons!

[06:37] VRISKA: I'm just generous with the little free time I DO have.

[06:37] FEFERI: O)( yes, I totally believe you. *NOT.*

[06:38] VRISKA: -Sits down next to her after pushing some of her stuff off-

[06:38] VRISKA: You should 8elieve me!

[06:41] FEFERI: I could believe you... but I'm going to need convincing! *nudging her with an elbow*

[06:41] FEFERI: W)(at )(ave you been busy wit)( anyway??

[06:41] VRISKA: 8eing a shipman! Hanging out with my m8sprit. ::::)

[06:42] FEFERI: Awww!!! T)(at's so sweet! *pinches two fingers on Vriska's face to show JUST HOW cute she thought it was* ---Eeeee!

[06:43] VRISKA: -Swats at her hand- Oh my god, stop it!!!!!!!!

[06:44] FEFERI: W)(y??? It's ADORABL-E.

[06:44] VRISKA: It's cool. It's not adora8le, it's cool!

[06:47] FEFERI: It's cool )(aving responsibilities and quadrants to spend time wit)(! *pinch pinch LAUGH* I S------EA.

[06:49] VRISKA: -More hand smacking- That's 8ecause we're the coolest couple ON this ship!

[06:52] FEFERI: T)(at's probubbly not true.

[06:54] VRISKA: It's SO true.

[06:54] VRISKA: We're the definition of cool!

[06:57] FEFERI: Maybe! But you're not t)(e COOL-EST.

[06:57] FEFERI: Aradia and I are way cooler. 38)

[06:58] FEFERI: You don't get more cooler t)(an DYING and coming back as a destructive robot g)(ost! And not to mention t)(e resurrection t)(ing.

[07:02] VRISKA: Ok 8ut I'm d8ing a cele8rity!

[07:02] VRISKA: So I win!

[07:02] FEFERI: I am t)(e celebrity.

[07:02] VRISKA: And I'm already a notorious pir8 Captain so........

[07:03] FEFERI: Well I'm t)(e )(eiress of a w)(ole -EMPIR-E!!!

[07:03] VRISKA: Not REALLY!

[07:15] FEFERI: -Even if I wasn't I could kick your flabby butt from )(ere all t)(e way to t)(e next star system! *more giggling*

[07:15] FEFERI: So BY D-EFAULT, I'm totally better!

[07:15] VRISKA: Oh, yeah right!!!!!!!! -She actually grins 8ecause it's funny to imagine her trying-

[07:15] VRISKA: You keep telling yourself that. :::;)

[07:17] FEFERI: I will because it's TRU-E. *Dammit. Dunking on Vriska is always so much fun.* But all t)(e stupid stuff aside... I'm )(appy for you!

[07:17] FEFERI: Latula is great!!!

[07:20] VRISKA: Hey, thanks. I think she's gr8, too.

[07:20] VRISKA: Kind of a spaz, 8ut a cute one.

[07:21] FEFERI: O)( my cod, tell me about it. S)(e treats everyt)(ing like it's a glubbing C)(ALL-ENG-E. It's gillarious to yank )(er fins!

[07:22] VRISKA: Yeah, she's up for anything. It's nice to hang out with someone who won't turn down a challenge!

[07:24] FEFERI: Wow!!! It's t)(e sweetest redrom -EV-ER. *hand on her face, eyes sparkling*

[07:24] VRISKA: Oh, quit it, you're making it sound lame!

[07:24] VRISKA: What's the deal with your red whatever anyway?

[07:29] FEFERI: T)(at's because it's you. You're t)(e lame one. *snickers and then smiles brighter at the mention of Aradia.* We're )(appy as clams! And it's not a regular quadrant arrangement eit)(er.

[07:29] FEFERI: Actually! We're free to sea ot)(er people too! It's really ------EXCITING.

[07:31] VRISKA: -Rolls her eyes at the lame comment 8ecause she is SO not lame. Raises her eye8row at the description of the relationship-

[07:32] VRISKA: So is she your m8sprit or what? What do you even CALL that????????

[07:33] FEFERI: *Get with the PROGRAM, Vriska. Feferi is rolling her eyes too.* We're matesprits but not potentially eac)( ot)(er's ONLY matesprit.

[07:33] FEFERI: My cod! You would t)(ink nobody's )(eard of suc)( a t)(ing before!

[07:34] VRISKA: I know that shit exists in like, hot and steamy pailing novels! 8ut not in REAL life.

[07:34] VRISKA: I don't actually know ANYONE who does that!

[07:34] FEFERI: Well now you DO.

[07:34] FEFERI: And for t)(e record, it's really fun. 38)

[07:36] VRISKA: Ok, whatever you say, weirdo!

[07:37] FEFERI: *just shrugs, letting Vriska have her opinion.*

[07:38] FEFERI: It makes for an -EXCITING love life, t)(at's for s)(ore! You never know w)(at's going to )(appen!

[07:38] VRISKA: So you just have threeways or whatever instead of 8eing with each other????????

[07:40] FEFERI: *raises eyebrows at her* I )(ope you're asking questions because you're genuinely curious.

[07:40] VRISKA: I'm ASKING.

[07:41] FEFERI: )(mm! *taps her chin* I don't know! I guess we can get anot)(er troll involved if we bot)( liked t)(em enoug)(.

[07:41] FEFERI: But ot)(erwise, s)(e dates w)(o s)(e wants and I'm free to do t)(e same too!

[07:41] FEFERI: T)(e POINT is, it doesn't affect our reelations)(ip as it is.

[07:41] VRISKA: So who else is she d8ting? Who else are YOU d8ting?

[07:42] FEFERI: *starts giggling again* O)( my cod, okay. It wasn't exactly a DAT-E but s)(e totally )(ooked up wit)( one of t)(e rebel guys on LOCAS. 38;)

[07:43] FEFERI: As for M-E, I'm not seeing anybody else rig)(t now.

[07:44] VRISKA: -She 8links at her 8ecause she REALLY doesn't get it. 8ut Feferi seems so happy doing whatever it is, so it's hard to 8e against it-

[07:44] VRISKA: You 8etter catch up, then!!!!!!!!

[07:44] VRISKA: Make sure you're one hookup ahead of her at ALL times!

[08:23] FEFERI: Vriska, PL-EAS-E. *SNORTS* W)(y would I WANT to )(ook up wit)( people I just M-ET???

[08:23] FEFERI: Okay, I mean. Takoda's really )(ot, I admit and I would )(ave TOTALLY been all over t)(at )(ad I KNOWN but...

[08:23] FEFERI: I'd rat)(er put my time in people I know like me for s)(ore! T)(at's all.

[08:25] VRISKA: I'm just trying to give you the edge up in this rel8tionship, that's all I'm doing!

[08:25] VRISKA: You know, looking out for you.

[08:45] FEFERI: Well... *fiddles with her fingers* I guess I can see t)(at!

[08:46] FEFERI: And I do like )(anging out wit)( ON-E ot)(er person besides Aradia.

[08:46] VRISKA: -Leans forward 8ecause she HAS to hear a8out this- Who????????

[09:08] FEFERI: *scrunches her face up and shooooves Vriska away with one hand* MAYB-----E I like )(anging out wit)( Jo)(n. T)(e doctor?

[09:18] VRISKA: -She grins at her- You think he's cuuuuuuuute!

[09:21] FEFERI: *pffffft, shoves her face more* Yes!!! )(e's R---EALLY cute.

[09:21] FEFERI: And fun to be around!

[09:22] VRISKA: So are you going to hook up with him?

[09:22] VRISKA: That's what I want to know!

[09:22] FEFERI: Um???

[09:22] FEFERI: I don't know???

[09:23] VRISKA: SOMEONE'S got a thing for humans!

[09:23] FEFERI: It'd be GR-EAT if we... And t)(ere's not)(ing wrong wit)( )(im being )(UMAN.

[09:24] VRISKA: -She's actually kind of laughing at her for that reaction.- Wow, Peixes!

[09:25] FEFERI: W)(at???????? *HUFFS*

[09:25] VRISKA: You're so fucking flustered. It's pretty funny!

[09:31] FEFERI: I am NOT.

[09:31] FEFERI: I really do t)(ink )(e's cute and I don't )(appen to CAR-E if )(e's )(uman!!! *fins are flaring defensively*

[09:31] VRISKA: You're so defensive and huffy a8out it! Chill out.

[09:32] VRISKA: It's kind of fun watching you get mad!

[09:34] FEFERI: Me?? But you're t)(e CUT----------------------E one )(ere! *laughs loudly and pinches her face again. This time HARD.*

[09:38] VRISKA: Ow! Fuck! Feferi! -SMACK SMACK. That wipes the grin off of her face-

[09:46] FEFERI: )(a)(a)(a)(a! *HARSH LAUGHING but finally let's go. That's right, Serket. Eat crab pinches.*

[09:46] FEFERI: I'm sorry! Your face is just so PR-ECIOUS. 38)

[09:47] VRISKA: -Ru8s her cheek in a frustrated manner- The fuck I am!!!!!!!!

[09:50] FEFERI: Yes, you are!!!

[09:50] FEFERI: I reely need to ask Latula )(er opinon now.

[09:50] VRISKA: No you don't!!!!!!!!

[09:51] FEFERI: Yes! I t)(ink I do!

[09:51] VRISKA: Do you even TALK to her at all????????

[10:00] FEFERI: *tilts her head* Of course I do! S)(e messaged me t)(e first day s)(e got )(ere and we've been friends t)(is w)(ole time!

[10:00] FEFERI: Or did you not know t)(at?

[10:00] FEFERI: LAM-E.

[10:02] VRISKA: How the fuck was I supposed to know?

[10:03] FEFERI: You've been dating Latula for )(OW long and you don't know w)(o s)(e )(angs out wit)(??? *she's messing again, Vriska. Look at her.*

[10:03] FEFERI: T)(at's totally lame of you!!!

[10:03] VRISKA: Not even that long! Shut up!!!!!!!!

[10:03] VRISKA: So what if I don't INTERROG8TE HER a8out EVERY LITTLE THING????????

[10:04] FEFERI: *tsks and shakes her head, so judgemental*

[10:04] VRISKA: Oh my God stop!!!!!!!!

[10:06] FEFERI: ... *bursts out laughing*

[10:07] FEFERI: O)( my cod, you are SO gillible.

[10:07] VRISKA: -GLARING AT HER SO HARD-

[10:07] VRISKA: You are SO weird.

[10:08] FEFERI: But you glub me ANYWAY! *flashes her a very pointy smile*

[10:09] VRISKA: -One thing's for sure, Feferi's terrifying when she smiles-

[10:09] VRISKA: Yeah, whatever!

[11:53] FEFERI: *sniffs dramatically and goes as far as leeeeeaning right against Vriska's shoulder* You CAR----E about me!!!

[11:56] VRISKA: -Shoves her, 8ut not roughly- Don't make a 8ig deal out of anything. You're making it weird!

[11:57] FEFERI: *makes big ol kissie faces at her* It's not W-------EIRD. You're t)(e one making it weird! *cackling as she is shoved* Oof!

[12:04] VRISKA: You're the epitome of weird, Peixes! -She's laughing though 8ecause this girl is NUTS-

[12:04] VRISKA: -SHE CRAY CRAYFISH-

[12:12] FEFERI: Awww, but we wouldn't be suc)( good friends if I wasn't. *coy winking and then she's sliding off the couch*

[12:12] FEFERI: And now I'm starving!

[12:12] FEFERI: *points at her and says in a very commanding tone* Come get somet)(ing to eat wit)( me!

[12:13] VRISKA: -Shakes her head like she can't 8elieve this girl and stands up- Soooooooo demanding!

[12:13] VRISKA: 8ut I'm hungry anyway, so you lucked out.

[12:13] FEFERI: You would )(ave )(ad to come -EIT)(-ER WAY. *sticks her tongue out and links arms with her* I would )(ave bullied you! 38)

[12:15] VRISKA: -She opens the door so they can go to the cafeteria.- I'm 8asically un8ullya8le, Feferi.

[12:15] VRISKA: 8ut nice try!

[12:16] FEFERI: *totally plants her foot on Vriska's butt and KICKS her out the door* LOS-------------ER!!!

[12:17] VRISKA: HEY!!!!!!!!

[12:17] FEFERI: *AND SHE'S MAKING A BREAK FOR IT, laughing the whole way to the caf* I SAID LOS----------------------------ER!!!

[12:18] VRISKA: -And now she's chasing Feferi at full speed- Get 8ack here!

[12:19] FEFERI: BY----------------E!!! *and then she runs a corner and is GONE. Food times fun times now!*

[09:43] AA: hi feferi! are you in your block?

[09:44] CC: )(i, Aradia! I just got back from t)(e meeting.

[09:44] CC: It was a LITTL-E BIT crazy.

[09:44] AA: i hope its the good kind of crazy

[09:45] AA: that can only be spurned from chaos

[09:45] AA: true chaos

[09:47] CC: It depends on w)(at you define as a good kind of crazy! T)(e kind w)(ere t)(e Captain's integrity is called into question because )(e wants to ens)(ore our survival over obeying t)(e laws of governments trying to catc)( us?

[09:47] AA: that sounds

[09:47] AA: fairly unproductive :(

[09:47] CC: At least we know w)(ere we're )(eaded now!

[09:47] CC: It doesn't matter.

[09:48] AA: mind if i come over?

[09:48] CC: Go a)(ead! I'm playing wit)( Rugilly rig)(t now.

[09:49] AA: im on my way then! see you in a few <3

[09:49] CC: Glub glub! <3

[09:51] ARADIA: -and she arrives at feferi's room, knocking once she gets there while holding onto a bag of stuff- guess who!

[09:53] FEFERI: *just sits cross-legged on the ground, playing peekaboo with Ruleus in the pillow pile. She turns towards the door with a smile.* It's you!!!

[10:01] ARADIA: its me! -she approaches the two of them and sits next to feferi and ruleus-

[10:01] ARADIA: looks like you two are having fun!

[10:03] FEFERI: Yes! )(e was pretty eager to see me today! )(e)(e)(e! *watches as he pokes his head out from the pillow pile and staaaaares at Aradia.* :O

[10:08] ARADIA: he obviously missed you -she giggles and digs in the bag for a little grub chew stuffed animal in the shape of a squid

[10:08] ARADIA: -

[10:08] ARADIA: i brought this for him! is that ok?

[10:09] FEFERI: Yea)(, s)(ore! )(e's teet)(ing like glubbing INSAN-E. *Food!!! He scrambles out from the pile and scuttles towards it.*

[10:09] FEFERI: *What the heck tho? This isn't food? He chews it anyway.* Rrrrr!

[10:10] ARADIA: -she gives it to him and smiles widely- there you go ruleus! just like that

[10:11] FEFERI: *He rolls off with it, kicking it viciously with his hind legs.*

[10:11] ARADIA: -she looks over at feferi with a grin- think he likes it?

[10:11] FEFERI: Awww!!! Of course )(e does! *appears proud* You know )(e's been getting more confrontational lately. )(e actually C)(ALL-ENG-ED Durga)( t)(e ot)(er day in t)(e cafeteria.

[10:12] FEFERI: I was so proud!

[10:13] ARADIA: i think i was there for part of that!

[10:13] ARADIA: i havent seen any hostile side of ananya yet

[10:14] FEFERI: Just give it some time. 38)

[10:15] ARADIA: its so hard to wait

[10:16] FEFERI: I know rig)(t?? I'm TOTALLY not looking forward to Ruleus's pupation. I won't know w)(at to do wit)( myself!!!

[10:17] ARADIA: its definitely difficult but easier when you surround yourself with other people

[10:17] ARADIA: i can give you all the tips i have!

[10:17] FEFERI: )(e)(e)(e, o)( yes. I know. -smiles a little-

[10:20] ARADIA: but we dont have to think about that right now

[10:20] ARADIA: in due time!

[10:20] ARADIA: everything will fall into place

[10:20] FEFERI: You're also rig)(t about t)(at!

[10:20] FEFERI: So w)(at's in t)(e bags? 38?

[10:25] ARADIA: -she smiles at her- oh just some stuff i brought over! -she opens the bag and pulls out yummy CHOCOLATE STUFF, handing it to her- this is for you!

[10:25] ARADIA: -and she pulls out a pillow shaped like a big, fuschia fish. she hands it to her also- i found this at the outpost

[10:25] ARADIA: one of those quaint little vendors with the people that don't talk for one reaosn or another

[10:27] FEFERI: O)( my cod! *SUDDENLY SO MANY PRESENTS. Her eyes grow wide as she accepts them.* Ug)(! Aradia, I LOV--E IT!!! *immediately hugs the fushcia fish pillow to herself* )(e)(e)(e!

[10:28] FEFERI: *Meanwhile, Ruleus is dragging over his toy and sets it by Aradia.* :o

[10:29] ARADIA: -she's beaming over at feferi, feeling warm inside at feferi's approval- im glad! -but ruleus is right there now, and she can't help but direct her attention to him.- do you want to play rulleus?

[10:30] FEFERI: *He shrinks as he's addressed but it's more out of shyness than anything. He's making tiny clicks to himself.*

[10:31] ARADIA: ruleus*

[10:32] ARADIA: -and she clicks right back at him, softly, gently, and she slowly (VERY SLOWLY), extends her hand for him to inspect it as he pleases-

[10:33] FEFERI: *Ru gives her hand a good sniff before nibbling at her harmlessly.* Rrrr!

[10:34] ARADIA: rrr! -she says back with a laugh- my fingers arent very tasty are they?

[10:35] FEFERI: *Feferi provides no comment but only smiles.* 38)

[10:35] FEFERI: *Meanwhile, Ruleus is nosing his way under her palm* Cht cht cht.

[10:35] ARADIA: -she gently scratches at his head- youre a big boy arent you

[10:42] FEFERI: *edges closer as she pets him, probably trying to chew on her sleeves. Feferi is just regarding them fondly. Pretty quietly too. She doesn't have much to say lately.*

[10:42] ARADIA: -while petting ruleus, she glances over at feferi and smiles- are you doing ok?

[10:45] FEFERI: *Ru decides he trusts Aradia enough to let her rub his belly. Prrr. Feferi looks up at Aradia's question.* Yea)(! I t)(ink so!

[10:46] FEFERI: I can't really explain )(ow I've been feeling lately. *shrugs* Just quieter, I t)(ink.

[10:46] FEFERI: Do not feeling like conc)(tributing to anyt)(ing count as an emocean?

[10:47] ARADIA: -she rubs ruleu's belly real good as she looks at feferi- i think really anything counts as an emotion

[10:47] ARADIA: even that

[10:47] ARADIA: whats making you feel that way?

[10:48] FEFERI: Yea)(. It kind of sucks.

[10:48] FEFERI: )(m! I'm not s)(ore! *flicks some lint off her pillow*

[05:31] ARADIA: -she nods, listening.- sometimes you just have to not contribute sometimes

[05:31] ARADIA: especially when you do so much

[05:31] ARADIA: you really deserve a break

[05:31] ARADIA: and maybe i can help with that :)

[05:34] FEFERI: )(e)(e, yea)( t)(at could )(elp a lot. *another small smile. It's hard feeling tired and not knowing why. Glub. She starts breaking into the chocolate.*

[05:35] ARADIA: just know you dont have to do or be anything when youre around me

[05:35] ARADIA: thats for sure

[05:36] ARADIA: -she joins her in digging into the chocolate-

[06:03] FEFERI: I know. T)(at must )(ave been w)(y I missed you so muc)( before! *nibbles on chocolate. Ruleus has taken to cuddling by Aradia. She's very warm, you see.*

[06:03] FEFERI: Glub. I can't even explain it. *sad faces after a while* Maybe I s)(ould talk to Tavros about it.

[06:06] ARADIA: -she glances down at ruleus and continues to pet the little cutie. aradia kisses feferi's cheek gently and smiles- i think that would be a great idea!

[06:06] ARADIA: im sure he can help you work it out

[06:11] FEFERI: *Awww, that melts her heart and she flashes her a look of gratitude.* You said you went outside to buy all t)(is stuff?

[06:12] ARADIA: outpost vendors believe it or not!

[06:12] ARADIA: along with the major warehouses there are some unique vendors there

[06:12] ARADIA: just with carts!

[06:17] FEFERI: )(e)(e! I really wis)( I could )(ave gone! -Except I went on my own brand of adventures t)(e ot)(er day.

[06:17] FEFERI: -Eridan took us on a mission to buy engineering supplies!

[06:18] FEFERI: I made lots of friends wit)( some guard trolls. 38)

[06:18] FEFERI: And was offered a job even! At troll C)(IPOTL-E.

[06:19] ARADIA: at troll chipotle? -she gasps and then laughs because it's so silly- i think thats definitely where you need to be feferi

[06:19] ARADIA: just ditch the uu and serve grubritos

[06:21] FEFERI: SO LONG, ALT-ERNIA. Your )(eiress )(as a new calling!!! *giggling*

[06:21] ARADIA: -she giggles too and actually snorts a little just PICTURING IT, and then she's full on laughing-

[06:22] ARADIA: -and just falling backwards, giggling whilie trying not disrupt ruleus and keeping a supportive hand around him-

[06:25] FEFERI: *He tenses as she falls but stays put because he's still getting belly rubs. Excellent.*

[06:28] FEFERI: Waterboat you? Was your trouting uneventful?

[06:28] ARADIA: i just explored the shops a little! looking for cool stuff and unique items and artifacts for sale that werent complete scams

[06:29] ARADIA: i wouldnt call it uneventful at all

[06:29] ARADIA: i enjoyed myself and spoke with some interesting trolls!

[06:30] FEFERI: None of t)(em tried to )(it on you, did t)(ey? *chews more chocolate*

[06:31] ARADIA: -she giggles again, looking up at her.- i dont think so!

[06:31] ARADIA: why? -she grins-

[06:31] FEFERI: W)(at??? I'm just saying!

[06:32] FEFERI: I wasn't offered a job because I )(ave GR-EAT CRUST-EASUM-ER SKILLS.

[06:32] ARADIA: hahaha did they hit on you?

[06:32] ARADIA: what am i saying? of course they did

[06:32] ARADIA: they would be silly not to

[06:32] ARADIA: your heiress status aside

[06:33] ARADIA: -she thinks- well maybe it wouldnt be silly if they didnt but

[06:33] ARADIA: it would be silly if they didnt want to

[06:33] FEFERI: It was pretty funny!!! *just laughing* I mean, okay t)(ey were CUT-E but totally not quadrant material like t)(ey seemed to t)(ink was POSSIBL-E.

[06:33] FEFERI: Sorry guys! I )(ave BIGG-ER fis)( to fry!

[06:34] ARADIA: oh my god

[06:34] ARADIA: -she shakes her head, smiling- wow!

[06:40] FEFERI: IT WAS FUN.

[06:40] FEFERI: I mean t)(e fact t)(ey didn't know I was t)(e )(eiress.

[06:40] FEFERI: It doesn't )(appen too often!

[06:40] ARADIA: well you are beautiful

[06:41] FEFERI: Pffft! Okay but B----ESID-ES t)(at!!! *shhh no, don't start with that Aradia. She will stuff more chocolate in her face.*

[06:41] ARADIA: and cute

[06:41] ARADIA: and your teeth are so sharp they could rip open flesh in a second

[06:42] ARADIA: and i think thats great

[06:42] FEFERI: I t)(ink it's great too!!! *TEARS INTO CANDY*

[06:46] ARADIA: -aradia is taking some pride in making feferi flustered. it's definitely an accomplishment- makes you really appreciate the candy huh

[06:47] FEFERI: Yes!!! I mig)(t eat all of it at t)(is rate. >38I

[06:49] ARADIA: --she grins up at feferi and raises her eyebrows a little- what im taking from this is that i should keep going

[06:50] FEFERI: NO!!! I'll get a tummy ac)(e! * D8 *

[06:50] ARADIA: well we should probably avoid that

[06:51] FEFERI: Yes, t)(ank you. *sniffs and drops some water down from her sylladex to sip at. Ruleus has become interested in this candy they are speaking up and is sniffing the wrapper.*

[06:51] ARADIA: maybe

[06:51] ARADIA: -she looks over at ruleus- can he have some?

[06:52] FEFERI: Maybe!!! I just )(ope it doesn't make )(im SICK. *gives him a stern look as he slowly licks a choco piece.*

[06:53] ARADIA: its your call

[06:53] ARADIA: your his lusus :)

[06:53] ARADIA: youre*

[06:53] FEFERI: )(e's doing it on porpoise. *squints at her grub as he licks the piece again, staring straight at his aforementioned momlusus*

[06:54] FEFERI: *And then he nibbles and drags it away to chew on it in private. Incredible.*

[06:55] ARADIA: -she laughs, sitting up a little as she watches ruleus leave.- its good chocolate

[06:55] ARADIA: what can i say?

[06:57] FEFERI: Yea)(, you're rig)(t.

[06:57] FEFERI: It is.

[07:01] ARADIA: -she looks over at feferi and sits up, noticing the subtle decrease in enthusiasm. she wants to make her feel better, wants to help her. aradia sits up just to scoot over next to feferi and put an arm around her- its going to be ok

[07:01] ARADIA: its all going to be ok

[07:02] ARADIA: and ill be here when it feels like it isnt

[07:02] ARADIA: to distract you and to show you things or just sit with you

[07:08] FEFERI: *It wasn't intentional, she hadn't even realized she was doing it. But when Aradia scooted over and put a warm arm around her, Feferi felt the little twinge in her blood pusher. Although she smiled, her eyes felt very watery as suddenly the sadness sprung past the cheer she felt with Aradia close by.*

[07:08] FEFERI: *All she could do was... let it happen. Let herself be held and let Aradia be the one to do it. Feferi buries herself against her shoulder, not saying much, but willing her tears away. It really was going to be okay, just give it time. There wasn't a rush.*

[07:12] ARADIA: -aradia smiles, this time, for feferi. she plans on being strong for her when feferi can't be. if feferi needs to cry, aradia will smile for her. it feels natural, aradia's role here. she starts humming a little, running her fingers through feferi's hair in a comforting fashion, kissing the top of her head.- its ok to feel sad

[07:12] ARADIA: it doesnt make me love you any less

[07:30] FEFERI: *Her words are such an overwhelming comfort, she can only sigh and lie against Aradia, listening. Feferi was sorry she wasn't perfect but Aradia made her feel like it was all exactly okay. It brought her such a relief to hear it, she'd never be able to express it in words. A purr starts up in her throat as her hand strokes into her hair.*

[07:30] FEFERI: T)(ank you for being )(ere.

[07:35] ARADIA: of course -she kisses her head again and wraps her other arm around her, holding her completely now, one hand on her back.- im happy to