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jigokulogs2022-04-03 06:50 pm
wray) wrote in jigokulogs2022-04-03 06:50 pm
Entry tags:
ᴏᴘᴇɴ ▸ out of the deep waters and all its intricacies.
Who ⬤ Six & you.
What ⬤ The Kappa Round-up, as per the Enma's orders.
When ⬤ After the Night Parade; soon after the Enma's order goes out.
Where ⬤ Around the city.
Content Warnings ⬤ Violence, most likely.
i. cyberkinetic
( OPEN TO OTHER ENMA MEMBERS )
ii. fireflies
( OPEN TO ALL )
iii. reconfigure
( OPEN TO ALL )
iv. wildcard me, baby
What ⬤ The Kappa Round-up, as per the Enma's orders.
When ⬤ After the Night Parade; soon after the Enma's order goes out.
Where ⬤ Around the city.
Content Warnings ⬤ Violence, most likely.
i. cyberkinetic
( OPEN TO OTHER ENMA MEMBERS )
[ six thinks that it was only a matter of time before such an order was issued.
things have been going well. too well, in fact, with hardly any hiccups in between. the night parade almost felt like a complete lie, a fabricated scenario meant to reassure everyone involved that there was nothing wrong. not even his experience with the strange drug from that bunny doctor can match up with how everything is right now — a complete mess in every sense of the world.
not only did early preparations do nothing to prevent the tragedy from happening, but now the department of enma has been deployed to do clean-up of the unsavoury kind. while six himself has reservations about the order, he knows that it's barely worth the effort of going against it. if he doesn't help with rounding up the kappa and everyone else involved with them, he knows that the enma can just as well send someone much worse to do the job itself.
he'd rather avoid that, if he can. ]
OPTION A - ASSIST.
[ it's almost funny how quickly he has to play the part of a loyal lapdog, the way he doesn't bother asking any questions and instead just focuses on getting the job done. he stalks along the streets of jigokucho in search for any kappa that are hiding or are currently on the run. he's quick and efficient when it comes to rounding them up, knocking the ones he caught unconscious rather than causing them too much harm.
it's a different story when it comes to the ones who do struggle against his attempts though. he doesn't even bother holding back.
if you happen to pass his way, he might gesture for you to come closer with a jerk of his head. ]
... There are some hiding over here. [ this building, this particular alleyway, or anywhere else. ] Mind giving me a hand?
OPTION B - HINDER.
[ of course, not everyone has to agree with what's happening. six knows this. he understands. it's never going to be easy for everyone to harm someone who is just trying to run away, but that's exactly why he has to be the one who does it. if it isn't going to be easy for others, the least he can do is be the bad guy so no one gets in trouble for the lack of action.
he can always worry about the consequences later.
or you can make it his problem now, by confronting him and standing in his way just before he grabs another kappa to knock out along with the rest. ]
Don't get in my way. You either help or stay out of this.
ii. fireflies
( OPEN TO ALL )
[ it doesn't surprise him that there are those outside of his faction attempting to help the kappa too.
if he happens to find you hiding the kappa at your place or catch you in the middle of the act of letting them escape, he'll attempt to put himself in between you and the way out. he assumes an offensive stance, claws out and ready to strike if he must. ]
... Don't be stupid.
[ a warning, a threat, and everything else it could in between. his voice is low and even, but if one pays close enough attention, it almost sounds like he's struggling to remain neutral. after all, despite admitting that he'll do what must be done, it doesn't mean he has to like it.
this is one of those moments where that's practically obvious.
the last thing he wants to do is to hurt someone who is only trying to do good things. ]
If you hand them over, no one will know you were ever involved.
iii. reconfigure
( OPEN TO ALL )
[ once all is said and done, six doesn't immediately retreat to his assigned quarters. he roams around the neon-lit city streets with no rhyme nor reason instead. he didn't come out of that scuffle completely intact (shallow cuts and purple bruises), but the physical aches hardly compare to the mental ones. his exhaustion runs bone-deep, even more so now that he's been all over the place without giving himself any respite.
somehow, it almost seems as though he's punishing himself. not only for what he just did, but perhaps for other unknown reasons that he keeps close to his heart. when his body leans against the closest thing — a wall, a street light, a random object — keen ears would hear him mutter quietly to himself. ]
Is this enough, I wonder... How do I make up for what I've done?
[ even if you try to catch his attention now, it doesn't seem like he's going to notice. it might take a few attempts, given just how absentminded he is right now. ]
iv. wildcard me, baby
( ooc. sometimes i forget six is a chuuni edgelord. but let me know if you need something specific from me!
in terms of specifics, six can be found stalking the streets of the city in search of the kappa or anyone attempting to help them. he is fully decked out in his eternals uniform plus the weapons he has on his person. i'm happy to write custom starters if none of the ones above ping you so pls feel free to pm me. 💜 )
☆ RECONFIGURE
he mutters a soft 'oh!'. another enma. he had seen that man in their headquarters before.
if it was any other night, any other situation, itadori would've greeted his fellow associate better. however, given the circumstances and the difficult orders they've been given by their leader, he knew neither one of them had the energy for an introductory small-talk. they could use a break, a moment of silence— maybe they didn't need to talk at all. itadori kept an eye on him regardless, that's when an awful thought came in mind. why is he reassured by the dishearten glum on six's features? ah, maybe in a fucked-up sense it felt less lonely to see someone else is struggling with those orders too. guess he's not the only one who's hating tonight. ]
... Hey.
[ he allows six a moment. then, once again- ]
You wanna' sit down for a bit?
yuuji is best boy
his ears perk up, and then his body turns to face the one who spoke to him. there is a split-second where recognition colours the rest of his features. yuuji? he must have said that out loud too, disbelieving the fact that the other may truly be here. it wouldn't be the first time the other has caught him during a vulnerable moment, but—
he knows how this works by now. different worlds, different timelines... no less confusing but still a grounding reality. he can't expect this one to know who he is. ]
I... I can go elsewhere if this spot is already taken. [ even if the last thing he needs is to be alone with spiraling thoughts. ] I apologize for intruding.
[ there's an attempt made to push himself from the streetlight, but it seems his body has other ideas. his balance sways for one second and then he's back to supporting himself against the pole.
he sighs quietly. ]
... Maybe for a moment then.
[ it's all he says before settling down on the ground, head bowed low. ]
You should head back to your place. It's not safe out here, after all.
sjhsdf; lowkey feels bad he doesn't know six
he was ready to force that boy into taking a break if he had to, only relaxing when six gave in to their reality and settled down. they are exhausted, drained, and just so out of it. itadori couldn't imagine going for another shift after tonight's events, already dreading the long trip to his apartment. with a weary smile, he watched the guy join him, side by side. that's much better. ]
You almost made me drop my cheap sandwich.
[ -said with a lighthearted chuckle; desperate to change the vibe of this gloomy night into something less bitter. soon after, he offers six the untouched soda, didn't bother to wait for his consent, instead nudging the cold beverage against his hand to take. ]
I'll go home after you finish your drink. For now, I could use some good company, especially from someone who's comfortable calling me by my first name.
[ there's no offense to it. if anything— the tone of his voice is full of warmth. ]
it's okay yuuji!! he still cares for you-
something cold is pressed against his hand. blinking, he glances down at the cold beverage that yuuji has now offered him without any option to refuse. his shoulders deflate before they even have the chance to tense up. he's way too tired to say no so he just accepts it quietly, bringing the soda close to his chest. it gives little comfort but it's something else to hold onto, at the very least. ]
Sorry. It's hard to explain how I know, [ alternate worlds will never stop being so confusing ] but thank you for the drink.
[ he pops it open since yuuji has decided the terms. he'll go home once six is done drinking this so the erune intends on making that happen. he brings it close to his lips so he can take a sip but then stops short. ]
... I don't know if I'll make for good company though. Not after tonight.
[ he'd rather crawl somewhere and forget about what happened, but that would be running away from what he did. it wouldn't feel right if that's what he did.
it wouldn't feel like he'd suffered enough. ]
;; <3
[ even if the curiosity is fated to keep him up at night, itadori knew when to pick his battles, and now is not the right time to push for it. after being forced to terrorize and manhandle what he knew are innocent individuals, he's more committed to taking care of the one person he might be able to help tonight. he's glad there are no protests over his offer, so now itadori returns his attention back to his half-eaten sandwich.
he takes in those words and the subtle hint of remorse behind them with a knowing nod. ]
I'm not looking for someone to joke and laugh with. I need someone who understands how I feel right now, and you do. Which makes you a good company.
[ again, the thought of being soothed by shared misery is sickening, even in hell. it made him feel a bit guilty, but he shakes it off; taking another bite, contemplating recent events and the heavy burden they left on their shoulders. he wondered if it's only the beginning of something far more sinister. ]
... You wanna' talk about it?
[ he wipes his mouth clean with the back of his fingers, peering over the other from the corner of his eye. ]
no subject
What is there to talk about?
[ six can understand the logic, he thinks, behind wanting to be around others who are going through the same thing as you are. while he can't say that he himself will be able to understand another person's feelings, he supposes there is a comfort to be found in knowing that someone is just as miserable as you are. if he can give that much to yuuji, then maybe it won't hurt to stick around for a little while.
that doesn't mean things are going to be easy when it comes to unpacking his own emotions, which are a mess. ]
The Enma's orders left no room for doubt. I acted as I needed to and I apprehended as many Kappa as I could.
[ it all sounds like excuses to him. his fingers tighten their hold on the drink. ]
I don't have the right to feel guilty over what I did.
no subject
nevertheless- ]
You have every right to feel guilty about it. We were manhandling people who are defenseless and most likely innocent. We don't know what will happen to them. Whatever it may be, it's all on us.
[ it didn't mean they should lose their own sense of judgment. they are allowed to have their own feelings, their disagreements and doubts. that's one thing yuuji is still holding on to, and he's assuming is what six gave up on. ]
All I'm saying is ... suppressing those emotions will backfire on you in the worst possible moment. You might want to think of a way to let it out.
[ he's addressing himself, too. itadori didn't have the best record in holding on to a healthy coping mechanism, but he can tell this place is about to test him in ways he's not prepared for. ]
So, whenever you're ready ... I'll hear you out.
no subject
It isn't going to change anything even if I hold nothing back. The Kappa will remain locked up, and it's all because of us.
[ it's not the first time he's heard of the advice. if the goal is mostly so he can feel better, then he's just not sure if he deserves that much, especially given what he contributed to. ]
... Next time, perhaps. [ he lifts the drink up. ] This will have to do for now.
[ time to drink the rest of it. once he's done, he doesn't put it away just yet. ]
What about you? How are you faring?
no subject
he stretched his arms over his head, exhaling a small puff of air. ]
I'd saaaaay ... I'm coping? But I know there are some matters I need to deal with. I've been brushing a lot of things under the rug, so I really need to take my own advice and face them.
[ even when he really, really doesn't want to. with a smile, he reached over to rest a hand on six's shoulder. ]
Let's get together sometime, yeah? When things calm down.
no subject
Ah... sure, if the timing works out for the better next time. I wouldn't mind that.
[ he realizes that the other has finished his sandwich so he knows what that means. soon enough, he'll be left alone with his thoughts and it's really not that appealing of a prospect now that it's happening soon. he doesn't know how to admit out loud that being around someone else did help alleviate the mess that is his emotions right now.
quietly, he stands up, unfinished drink still in hand. ]
Do you want to head back together? We're probably headed the same way, so...
no subject
god knows itadori could use the company. once again, hoping for a better end to this emotionally draining night. ]
Sure! We might end up living nearby.
[ if that's the case, six might get more than what he bargained for. itadori is like a feline— feed him once and he will never go away. in this case, give him enough attention and the forced friendship begins. with his hands tucked inside his pockets, he waits for the other to join his side before they started walking ahead.
that's when it hit him- ]
Oh. You never told me your name!
no subject
thankfully, the subject of his name gets brought up and it's enough of a distraction. ]
It's Six. That's the name I was given.
[ maybe it's strange to keep introducing himself this way, but old habits are hard to break. even more so now that nehan has given him what his actual name is, but — that's a concern for another time.
for now, he moves up to stand by yuuji's side before gesturing towards the direction he's going. ]
If you live where the rest of the Department's new members are situated, then it's more than likely we live close to each other.
[ that makes this trip all the more convenient, and it's a path that six is already way too familiar with given how often he travels through it. ]
... Is that a good thing?
no subject
[ then again, when parents name their children, it's kinda 'given' to them; it's one way to interpret it. it's a name you're stuck with, whether you like it or not. in the end of the day, itadori didn't seem to judge too much. a name is a name; you can introduce yourself in the way you're most comfortable. six, it is. ]
Oh yeah! That's where I'm staying! I can't believe I haven't noticed you earlier!
[ did he really need to answer that question? it's bad enough they are forced into this city, acting as puppets to their leaders and losing their own voice along the way, so the sorcerer couldn't imagine going through these difficult times all alone. it might be pathetic to voice out, but he's eager to have someone he could trust and lean on. no one said they have to do this on their own. itadori straightens his back, eyes playful and there's a burst of energy in his tone. ]
If we end up being neighbors that would be amazing! We can help each other out. You can totally hit me up if you need anything. I'm a good cook, too!
[ and ... it begins. ]
no subject
[ it's a long story, one that he's not sure he has the energy to explain right now. thankfully, it seems like yuuji has accepted it for what it is, and they're able to leave it at that. ]
As for being neighbours...
[ the burst of energy that yuuji now emanates is hard to deny. six has always been a loner, too used to just shouldering things on his own even when it gets unbearable. relying on someone else isn't usually his first solution to everything. however, if tonight taught him anything, it might not be so bad to have that as an option.
after all, yuuji has been nothing but kind and patient with him. ]
Just call for me if you need anything too. [ ... ] I have instant ramen I can share with you, if you'd like.
[ he might need a bit more help than normal. maybe. ]
no subject
[ six had every right not to share his story, even when itadori is more than happy to lend an ear. however, being called a menace by 'society' —yeah, that hit home. even though they just met, he knew six is anything but cruel. he is kindhearted. maybe too kindhearted for a callous place such as this. ]
Pick one that you like. You're free to do so, after all! Unless ... you like being called 'six'? Then, I wouldn't mind it. So long as you're happy.
[ considering their tight budget, can he really mock the other's meal choices? not really. itadori knew his new friend does need some support when it comes to eating better, though. with a light chuckle, one that's not mocking, but warm— he answered. ]
I hope that's not all you've been eating, but I can make a fancy meal out of instant ramen. I just need fresh vegetables, seasoning, and eggs. Pretty cheap to buy, yet very hearty. If you're hungry, I can make some?
no subject
[ maybe? that's what he thinks, at least. everyone he's ever worked with knows him by his alias with the eternals, and it's a name siete gave him upon being persistently asked to join the ragtag crew, so... he never bothered to argue against it. yuuji's point does make him think though—
one day, if such a day will ever come, he might use his real name again, but it's not something he will worry about now. it's more important for both of them to get home safely, and thankfully, it doesn't look like anyone is going to disrupt their walk home. the streets are still lively with youkai who never sleep, but quiet and undisturbed, as if the whole thing with the kappa never happened.
(or maybe it's just because no one knows they're from enma.) ]
You needn't go that far. I... [ he falls quiet, considering his options. ] I can help you make it. I have money leftover from last time, so I can also pay for it as well.
[ what started out as an invitation to walk home together is now turning into possibly having food together too? six finds himself not... minding this outcome at all. ]
no subject
[ he does understand what six means. it will be strange, almost as if giving yourself a whole new identity, and it could be a lot to take. and yet— that's also the fun part, isn't it? maybe one day that boy will have a change of heart, until then ... he will respect his wishes.
itadori would be surprised if no one recognized them as part of the enmas. they have been here for a while, and people like to gossip. there are factions for a reason, and of course everyone wanted to know their 'friend' and their 'enemy'. itadori didn't have the energy for that kinda survey, often willing to go with the flow, but it doesn't mean he's oblivious other people think that way. the madness with the kappas is hard to conceal, as other enmas weren't as gentle as they are. they left a bitter mark today. while the streets are quiet, it was also uneasy. which is why— he's glad he had company. ]
I don't want you to pay for anything. Just offer the ingredients you already have, I'll do the cooking, and then we both feast like kings! See? Teamwork!
[ by now, they enter an old neighborhood, full of apartment buildings all confined together. it truly felt like a place fitted to the bottom of the ranks; a harsh daily reminder to work their way to the top. itadori stops before he points to the right— specifically at an apartment on the top floor of a nearby complex. ]
That's my place. Over there. Apartment 12!
[ but that's not where they are heading. this is the moment of truth. ]
Soooooo ... are we neighbors?
no subject
[ the protest dies before he can say much else. if yuuji insists on not letting him pay, six knows it won't matter how many times he refuses the offer. he's encountered several people in this place that are just too quick and genuine with their generosity, and sometimes he has no idea how to deal with it. besides from just letting it happen, of course. ]
But if you insist.
[ for now, that'll have to do. he'll find a way to repay the favour someday in the future.
his eyes follow the direction towards where yuuji is pointing at. there's a split-second where his ears perk up before dipping low again, as if suddenly way too conscious of what's going on. what are the chances? ]
I live right next to you, I suppose. Apartment 11. I never noticed... but I barely spent any time there.
[ unless it was to sleep, anyway. ]
That makes things easier... right?
no subject
[ itadori was taken back for a very brief second before his expression eased, lips soon curling up in a bright grin. is he surprised? yes, but in a good way. the sorcerer was starving over the concept of having a friendly neighbor from day one, only to miss out on this guy who happened to be living next door the whole time! who knew what started as an unpleasant night would turn out like this?
a few easy steps brought him closer and he threw an arm around six's shoulder; pulling him along so they could walk up to their apartments. ]
I can't believe this whole time you were living next to me, and I didn't notice. What a terrible neighbor I must be!
[ he can blame it on the long hours, and the demands of their work that allowed them little to no energy left. however, it still didn't feel like a good excuse to be so oblivious. another minute and so, they'll find each other facing the doorframe leading to six's apartment— number 11.
that's when itadori freed him, hands settling on his own hips instead; waiting for the other to unlock the door. note to self: ask for a spare key ✨ ]
If you're rich enough to have a TV I'll be so jealous.
no subject
so he lets it happen, allowing him to be led up the stairs. ]
I barely spent any time here, like I said, so it's fine. I didn't notice you either, so...
[ once freed, he fishes out the keys and unlocks the door. he has no idea what yuuji is planning as he lets them both inside, flicking the lights open. distracted, he asks what's a tv? before he makes his way further into the apartment. there's not a whole lot to see, only the bare necessities. a folded futon tucked away in a corner, a low table in the middle of the open space. there's a small kitchenette to the side with a lone kettle on the counter. ]
The ramen packs are in the cupboards, and I have some eggs, but I don't have anything else you mentioned earlier. Should we go buy some first?
no subject
[ he's not— judging. maybe a bit surprised but even itadori understood almost everyone here came from a different culture, different worlds too. there is a lot he didn't know about his new friend and many questions he wishes to seek an answer to. however, he's not rushing. itadori had a feeling he will enjoy getting to know this boy at their own pace. for now, he follows him inside the apartment; rubbing his hands together while eyeing the kitchen in the corner. again, he's not going to ridicule six's humble way of living, as the sorcerer is not doing any better either.
they are all trying their best here. ]
Nah, I know you're far too tired for a trip to the grocery store. Besides, there is a delivery service.
[ -that will cost him a bit, but whatever. they're equally too drained to take another step out, and they honestly deserve to take it easy for the rest of the night. itadori shoves a hand inside his pocket and pulls out his phone, he then takes a moment to search through his contact list; eyes on the screen as he spoke. ]
In the meantime, get yourself more comfortable ... maybe a change of clothes or something. I'll make the order and then start prepping the other ingredients.
no subject
six isn't the type to need a whole lot in his life. as a skyfarer, it was rare he was ever in one place for long enough, so he never bothered to learn the art of filling up a space with things that make it your own. he didn't bother with it back at hakagemachi either; most of the things in his shared apartment belonged to his roommate who...
he shakes his head, distracting himself by focusing on what yuuji just said. ]
Doesn't it cost more to get it delivered? [ by the time he says that, maybe it's too late? ] ... At least let me pay half of it.
[ they just met, technically, so it wouldn't feel right to have yuuji pay for everything.
he looks down at himself, ears flattening. yuuji does have a point about a change of clothes, however. the ones he's wearing right now are too dirty. ]
Do you want something to change into as well, while we wait? I'm sure my clothes will fit you, or I can grab yours from next door.
no subject
[ at some point, itadori knew he had to loosen up and not let the other feel like he's a burden, otherwise— six might feel uncomfortable around him and that's unacceptable. it's a compromise that will, hopefully, put them both at ease. as for placing the order, it took a few seconds for itadori to name all the vegetables they need, adding to the list some drinks too. as for six's kind offer, he considered it while eyeing those adorable ears' flop then flutter back up like a feline.
... cute. ]
Hmm. I don't want to mess up your clean clothes ...
[ he mutters, mostly to himself, as brushed his hands over the fabric of his jacket. it's a bit dusty, somewhat covered in dirt (maybe some dried bloodstains) — yeah, it's kinda gross. ]
Maybe toss me a shirt before you run off to clean up? I'll start by boiling some eggs. The order will reach in about ten minutes.
no subject
then again, yuuji has always been like this. too kind and generous for his own good.
his ears perk up at the mention of a shirt before nodding. ]
Alright. I'll get you one. [ the apartment is small enough that he's able to quickly grab a clean black shirt from a pile nearby. thankfully, it's not one with holes. he doesn't think yuuji will appreciate an erune's preference for shirts that much. ] Here.
[ once he hands over the shirt, he excuses himself to the small bathroom to get cleaned up. there is more blood on him than he initially thought, but that comes away with some soap and water. his uniform is ruined for now though, at least until he's able to get it cleaned properly.
it's not long before he changes to clean clothes. he makes it back to where yuuji is before the order is delivered. the shirt he's wearing is backless, but ah. that's erune fashion for you. ]
... How are the eggs?
no subject
Eggs are done. I just need to add the vegetables, and seasoning then put them all together! Trust me, it will taste great!
[ it took him a while to notice that backless shirt six had on, and when he did— oh man, itadori had an epiphany. there is something oddly sinful about that design that he could not understand. was it the way the fabric was teasing a sneak peek and yet kept the other boy modest at the same time? was it those shoulder blades? wait— is someone's back shoulder even considered sexy? what is it about this damn shirt?!!
in the end, it is itadori. subtle is not his thing. ]
Wow! You look nice!
[ an honest compliment; one without any hidden intent but appreciating the other. ]
(no subject)