Realistic or Modern Fixers: Japan Edition

[ZombieBaee]

Candy

“You’re right!” Candy exclaimed as she looked down at the water and saw the small fish that Crow was referring to. “Wait did you just just say we would mourn our friends? Crow. The sharks won’t come up this shallow.” She chuckled and rolled her eyes a bit at him as she turned to face him in the water. “It’s really the kraken you should be worried about.” She hoped he would catch her joke but she realized he probably wouldn’t…. Oh well. Behind her she heard the others mention chicken and she lit up a little bit. It sounded fun! However everyone go so serious so fast! Zuki was even shooting things!

Before Candy could say anything she was being scooped up and she let out a little scream, tossing her arms around Crows shouldn’t and letting out a laugh once she realized what was going on. “Crow I’m not in charge at the house. But I will do my best to help protect your honor! Promise!” She beamed up at him as he gently placed her back on her feet. She watched as he turned to yell at the others.

“W-wait I wouldn’t be that confident! Crow Im a weakling!” Candy whispered the last part harshly as she grabbed him arm to try and keep him from making that promise. Oh man this was going to go poorly now. If Candy knew Asa, and she did, Crow just invited a fucking demon to this game by promising any form of power over him. Especially after the bus ride! Akari made her way into the water first with the others soon following after Zuki returned from putting the gun away. Akari explained the rules, or lack there of and they were ready.

“I-okay. Here we go.” Candy chuckled apprehensively and turned to Crow to get on his shoulders. They were deep enough in the water for the boys to be waist deep so falling wouldn’t hurt and it was easy to get up on his shoulders. “Woah! Okay steady!” They wobbled a bit at first but soon Candy found her balance and was able to let go of the death grip she had on poor Crows head and relax a little. This was about to go so poorly…

 

[KAYDEN]

Daisuke Tanaka

How did they get here? “What? No I don’t know how to handle a gun. Zuki I’m talking about -“ Suddenly she was running off and Daisuke was standing there speechless. Was she joking? She had to be joking right? Pulling his leg? Daisuke KNEW that Zuki knew how to drink! Had she never really shot gunned a beer before? Soon she was returning and Daisuke watched her with a raised brow.

Daisuke knew he should have stopped her but he didn’t, he just watched with a wildly amused look on his face. She shot the beer can and splatter went everywhere and he couldn’t help but let out a booming laugh. “I-that’s not exactly what I meant. And no chicken. Just… no.” He walked over to the cooler and grabbed a new beer as the others all yelled at her about the gun and about playing chicken. “Calm down kids! I’m workin on it!” He walked over to Zuki and handed her the beer. “Don’t shoot this one.”

Daisuke reached into the pocket of his swim trunks and pulled out a pocket knife, poking a hole in the bottom of his can before doing the same to hers. “Now watch.” He held the hole to his lips and tilted his head back before popping the tab. Once done he let out a small hiccup and looked over at her. “Now you try, then put that gun away and let’s go kick some ass okay?”

 

[EclipseRosee]

Kage;Shadow

“Oi come on. Why are you crying? I’m really trying here kid.” Kage signed and ran his hand over his hair, but then as she continued he realized that maybe it wasn’t sad crying. Was that a thing? She didn’t seem sad. “Of course I won’t tell! Hell I didn’t even tell them about your dad. It just slipped out that the guy is an asshole and Crow ran with he.” He growled lowly and placed his arms across his chest as he stared past Emi to glare at Crow in the water. However his attention was quickly yanked back to Emi when she said his real name.

Kage couldn’t figure out how to explain the emotion he was feeling. He wasn’t angry, he was frustrated. He wanted to be the one to tell her, it was annoying that his fucking brother had been the one to do so. But another part of him felt warm, his chest and cheeks heated… and not from the sun. “It’s okay. It is my name, you’re right.” She called him cute and he felt like he might explode. “Right right. I want to talk to you to Emi, and you can call me Kage. Really… just not in front of the others okay?” He couldn’t look at her as he spoke, he was embarrassed. Why could this woman do this to him?

Kage reached out and took the hoodie from her, finally able to look up and give her an honest smile. Behind him he heard the familiar sound of a silenced pistol and he quickly turned and pushed Emi behind him. However he didn’t find danger, he only found Zuki assaulting a beer can. “It’s not THAT sad Asa, Zuki is just fucking deranged.”

The others were talking about playing chicken and Akari asked if Emi wanted to referee. “I’ll leave it up to you, we can play or we can watch them make fools of themselves and drink a fruity drink in the water. I personally know which one I think sounds like a better time.”

 

[Sir Damien]

Doc

“Oh you don’t think I threw a tantrum in the bus? Huh, I’ll have to step up my yelling next time.” As Asa smirked down at Akari he heard Crow yell at them, saying that the winner would get an award? Oh. Ho ho ho, merry fucking Christmas to him. He already wanted to see Candy get dunked in retaliation for her kneeing him a couple months ago. For obvious reasons he wanted Crow waterboarded, but dunking would have to work for the time being. Now? Now there was a reward, a mighty pretty one too. Boss for a day. The already overly competitive Asa was out for fucking blood now.

“Daisuke, my deepest apologies in advanced. At least the water will be warm when you two fall over.” The overly cocky male cracked his neck and stretched his arms before following Akari into the water. “My dear I play to win, dirty or not.” Once the water was at waist level and they went over the one rule Asa dipped underneath the water and emerged with Akari on his shoulders. The man was an animal when it came to competition. His partner was someone just as competitive, there would be NO way they could lose.

“Game on, I can’t wait for us to be boss for a day. Crow you’re going to really regret this buddy.” Eventually the others got ready and it allowed Asa to instantly direct him and Akari towards Crow and Candy, his hands holding onto her legs securely. They were sitting ducks, Candy was a gamer and a wuss and Crow was an brilliant idiot with the curiosity of a child. “Fuck, is that the kraken you were going on about?” Like a fucking baby with candy the teal haired male turned to look behind him in a panic. Asa’s leg moved around Crow and bent, forcing his leg out from under him, sending Candy and Crow face forward into the water. “Shit man, I hate when that happens. Fucking Kraken.”

 

[Colt Voltage]

Crow

“Does…does the Kraken really come this close to the surface? They research said he lives deep at sea, but I didn’t think he could stretch this far…” For a moment Crow looked out at the water and felt goosebumps run down his arms. Was the water even safe to stand in? Soon everyone was joining and Candy was saying something about being a weakling? Her? No, no. She was tough as nails. “Miss Candy, that sounds like doubt in your voice. Not to brag but I think we have this in the bag. Besides, you’re Boss Jr. We’ve got a lot riding on this.” Crow was overly confident that they were going to win this. Akari and Asa were still messed up from the car accident, Daisuke was a pretty face but not that tough looking and Zuki didn’t know how to play. Seriously, their victory was statistically looking well!

Well, that is until Candy climbed on him. He was not used to physical touch, especially with a girl on his shoulders! Not just any girl. It was Candy! Every inch of his pale face lit up a bright shade of red, to the tip of ears, even his neck. Was he going to pass out? Thankfully, Asa was being a good guy (for once) and keeping lookout for the kraken. What a hero! “What? Where? Stay back you vial-“ The sentence never got a chance to be finished. Soon he lost footing by something and he was plummeting face first into the water. All of it happened so fast he didn’t even think to let go of Candy’s legs. He only let go when he realized they were submerged.

It took Crow longer than he thought it would take to stand back up. He coughed up some water and gagged at how salty the sea water was. “FOUL-ack-“ Crow was trying to yell at Asa but the water was disgustingly salty and it did not leave a nice taste in his mouth. “Dirty dirty tricks done by a fake doctor and now a dirty trickster cop! Ref! Disqualify them!”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Luna

What was everyone’s problem with her shooting the beer? That was the name of the game! “Fuck you, you’re deranged. Did your loner ass know how to shotgun a beer?” Zuki’s face heated as Daisuke laughed, a small frustrated huff passing her lips. Everyone was agreeing to this chicken game despite the fact that they didn’t have a chicken. They were even waging a prize for the winner! Soon a new beer was being placed in her hands, furrowing her brow as he told her not to shoot it. These people were so weird about guns, acting like something getting shot wasn’t an everyday occurrence. “What an interesting way to drink beer.” Her eyes studied Daisuke as he poked holes in the cans and drink it in an odd manner.

“Cheers?” Zuki followed the steps he had given her and took a few long drinks, her eyes watering from how fast she was drinking it. What an odd feeling, she was still getting used to the whole fun idea. This was pretty fun! Soon the beer was gone and she tossed the empty can near the cooler so it didn’t get lost. “We’ve got to beat that snarky ass doctor.” The pale woman sat her gun in the bag and in the shade, grabbed hold of Daisuke’s hand and ran into the water. She found herself easily climbing up onto his shoulders as she followed Candy’s lead, her face heating up as she sat there. The two had cuddled once, kissed one other time but that was as physical as they had ever gotten. It was odd having him hold her legs like this, and even more odd being on his shoulders! “Listen is now the time to say I don’t know how to swim?”

Between being focused on not falling and trying to watch the others to learn how to play she didn’t even notice Asa’s deception. Not until Crow was face planting into the water. Her fingers ran through Daisuke’s hair and rested on his head as she figured out the game. “Oh, I just have to push the cop into the water? Sorry in advance Akari.” Zuki was pretty confident on her physical abilities. And it wasn’t like Daisuke would fall for Asa’s tricks…right? They had this in the bag. “Crow the one rule was no guns, they can’t be disqualified.”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Sunny

Had Kage never see happy tears? The poor guy was in for a treat. Emi was always crying tears of joys; happy endings of movies, cute animal videos, you name it she could cry at it. And right now she was over the moon happy. He hadn’t told Crow anything, Crow was just a big dumb idiot assuming things like he always did. It was just horrible timing, and Emi felt terrible that she thought Kage would have said something. He didn’t hate her, in fact he was even smiling at her with one of the warmest smiles she had ever seen. It made her so happy. A happiness she really didn’t know she would ever feel.

Her heart started to pound loudly as he moved her behind her at the sound of the gun. That too, he was always being nice and protecting her! Even when he didn’t have to. As weak as she was she wanted to be able to protect him, too. Thankfully Akari ran up to them and gave her a break to look away to calm her pounding heart and racing thoughts. “Oh no no, I’m not playing with her. She gets crazy when she competes! Fruity drinks with you sounds way better.” With a bright smile she looked up at his face again. Seriously, why did she have to get married? She wanted to stay here with the fixers, she wanted to stay here with Kage.

Bravely she found her fingers lacing together with his before she raced into the water. The sun was hot, the water was nice, and the weather was perfect. The only thing she could think of though was that she was holding Kage’s hand. Once they were waist deep in the water and standing far enough from the others to properly referee them she let go of his hand, taking a drink of the wine cooler. “I’m going to toughen up so I can protect you, okay? That’s my mid-year resolution. By the end of this year I’m going to be like a ninja, like those turtles on TV.” Suddenly Crow and Candy were falling into the water and making Emi realize she hadn’t been watching at all. “Oh! Um, well Akari did say no rules! Sorry Crow.”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Sherlock

The game began and without even really playing yet. Before any of them could make a move Crow was suddenly face forward in the water, well before anyone could make an actual move. Asa clearly had tricks up his sleeve and Akari reached down and ruffled his hair as Crow and Candy resurfaced. “You’re evil, I love it.” She laughed as Crow yelled for Emi and Shadow to do something and simply grinned over at her now soaked friends, “Dirty trickster cop? I don’t know what you mean. Asa was just looking out for your safety Crow.” Akari feigned ignorance and she did so badly thanks to the smirk on her lips. “Anyways now the real game begins.”

Akari and Asa moved towards Daisuke and Zuki, the two women locking hands as they both struggled to push the other one over. Akari was right to think Zuki would actually be a challenge, the woman had bested some of her fellow officers in the past. But what Zuki didn’t have, was the knowledge of Daisuke growing up. That was going to be a fun little distraction, Akari knew that eventually Zuki would probably push her down but if she could get Daisuke to fuck up? Win. And Akari was the queen of getting Daisuke to fuck up.

“Honestly I’m impressed. I knew Zuki would be formidable but Daisuke I’m shocked.” Akari spoke as she struggled with Zuki, “I mean growing up you were always so traditional about women, I mean I guess you and Zuki are engaged but, I can’t believe how unflustered you are holding her like that.” She faked a gasp like she had actually made any realization, “Unless! Daisuke you DOG!”

That was that. Daisuke’s grip faltered and Akari was able to just simply push and down they went. The splash came up and hit Akari a bit but she simply threw her hands up anyways in celebration. She was not a quiet winner. “And that kids is how you make things happen!” She ruffled Asas hair once more before continuing, “However it is quite warm.” She leaned back to fall into the water herself, popping back up and wrapping her arms around Asa from behind. “Good job there. Though I’m pretty sure Crow is going to kill you.”

“Ooo speaking of! I do believe there is a prize involved yes?”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Candy

Candy was very quickly regretting joining in, it was all in good fun but Crow put out a prize that she KNEW Asa would do anything for. And look how right she was! “Crow wait, he’s just messing with you. There’s no-“ But before she could even say the word Kracken, Crow was lurching forward and she quickly followed suit, getting a face full of water and a lot of tangled confusion as the two of them came back up for air. Of course while Candy focused on pushing the heaps of mint green hair that now cling to her out of her face, Crow was already yelling for Emi to disqualify Asa and Akari.

“The woman is right Crow, we all agreed to no rules.” Candy chuckled once she finally got her hair pushed back, walking through the water to take Crow by the hand and pull him a bit away from the others. “I have a feeling this game is about to get a bit more intense. Let’s step back to avoid getting crashed into.” Even when they stepped away Candy still held onto his hand for a few moments longer under the water.

Watching the remaining two couples did made her a tiny bit jealous. Of course she was so happy that two of her grouchiest friends had both found people they loved, but they were moving forward with it while Candy just felt stuck. She didn’t really know what she was expecting, or if she should expect anything but… she thought Crow liked her. He flirted all the time but that was all her ever did! And the fact that ASA was in a serious relationship with someone before her was just MIND BOGGLING.

A bit away in the water she heard Akari speak up and talk at Daisuke. The realization of what she was getting at even made Candy blush despite not being involved. “A-Akari! That’s inappropriate to bring up!” Zuki and Daisuke went down with a splash and of course Akari and Asa were celebrating. “Guys I want to say now that this is everyone’s reminder to not offer those two any sort of prize for winning anything.” Speaking of which… Candy looked over at Crow with a sympathetic smile. “M-Maybe Asa won’t be mean? For once… oh who am I kidding. Crow you really messed up on this one.”

Candy reached over and took his hand again before giving him a small smile. “I am so sorry for the day you’re about to have.” She turned and looked back at Asa with a glare, “And you don’t be an extreme asshole for once ? Maybe? I hear ladies don’t like mean guys and Akari is a fine lady.”

 

[EclipseRosee]

Kage;Shadow

“You shot a inanimate object woman, you should not be calling anyone names right now. And yes, I do. I live with these fucking animals.” Kage let out a small chuckle as Zuki yelled at him, shaking his head and turning his attention back to his own drink. Emi spoke up and he looked at her with a raised eyebrow, “She that bad huh? This might actually be interesting to watch then. Personally I bet that Crow trips and falls without anyone even touching them.”

Then Emi reached out at took his hand, pulling him behind her into the water to join their friends. Only his brain went static, this was different than other times she yanked him along. It was stuck a stupid different, simply lacing her fingers through his but it made his heart race. More and more things were pointing towards a reality that Kage didn’t want to face, he didn’t want to admit he had feelings for this woman, that he broke his own rules and let someone get to close. But dammit she was proving him wrong at every corner.

The two of them were supposed to be watching the game when she spoke up next and said something that completely floored Kage. “W-well while I appreciate the sentiment Emi I don’t think you need to toughen up. You’re tough in other ways, ways I never could be. You have a good head on your shoulders and strong will. All I have is some talent with a gun and physical strength. Beyond that I’m a weakling in my own right. Plus I think if you ever want to fight like those turtles on tv you need to grow about three feet to start.” Kage gave her another honest smile, he was really using a lot of those today. He went to say more but suddenly there was a splash and Crows yelling followed soon after.

“Oi, stop your bitching. If you fell trick to Asas scheme your should be embarrassed not admitting it so loudly!” Kage yelled back to Crow after Emi told him no rules. “Plus how did you think you were winning this, did you put 100 hours into beach chicken game simulator?”

 

[KAYDEN]

Daisuke Tanaka

“You don’t know how to swim?” Daisuke stammered, holding onto her legs tighter than before. Even if she fell it wouldn’t be dangerous, they were in waist deep water and a bunch of friends were around but still he felt an even stronger need now to not drop her. Above him she continued and Daisuke chuckled, “Yes you just need to push her down. But I think this is going to be harder than you think. Akari has always been insane with competing, there’s a reason Emi sat out.” Asa was playing his trick on Crow while Daisuke simply stood with Zuki on his shoulders. “God it’s scary how much those two are alike, I really do not know how I didn’t see it before now.” He shuddered a bit as he looked over at Akari and Asa, they were terrifying as shit right now.

“Hey this is just a fun game okay! No need to get so intense!” Daisuke chuckled sheepishly knowing his plea would fall on deaf ears. Crow was yelling for Emi to do something and the others went forward with the game. For a while it was going well and Daisuke even thought Zuki might toss Akari a few times. But then Akari had to go and open her damn mouth and at first Daisuke didn’t understand what she was getting at… then she called him a dog and he nearly died on the spot.

Daisuke was a confident man, he was no stranger to dating or anything like that. But he was traditional in that sense, he didn’t want to sleep with someone until they were married. He felt strange about sleeping in the same room as a woman, unless it was a strictly friend thing. He had no issues with others doing it and it wasn’t a religious thing or anything, it was just something personal to him. Hell, he even felt weird about the nap they had together still!

So, Daisukes grip loosened and quickly the two of them got knocked down. He came back up from the water quickly and reached out his hand to help Zuki find the surface, pulling her up gently and brushing some wet hair from her face when he did. “A-Sorry! Are you okay?”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Sunny

Why did good things go by so fast? The weather had been perfect, not too hot but just hot enough for beach weather. The water was amazing, the hiking trail was gorgeous and the town was cute and quaint. The waterfalls were breathtaking, but the thing that made it the best? Everyone was enjoying themselves and not stressing about their lives back in the big city. Hell, even Emi was able to forget about her engagement. Now she knew Kage’s real name, he even seemed like he was having a great time and it felt like he was opening up more. Emi even suggested that they run away and get a cabin by the water. Realistically she knew that both of their jobs were linked to the city…maybe they could just retire and open up a cat cafe? It’d take some planning, but she was pretty she could plan something that would work.

The approaches Akari, Daisuke, and Emi had for relationships were completely different. Emi was determined to find someone that she loved but, honestly? She didn’t know what to do once she found it. Her parents didn’t love each other, they were more business partners. Hell most of her life she thought that she would have just been married to whoever her father presented her. Now she found someone she really felt something for, like their personalities meshed well (despite being totally different) and they brought out the best in each other. All she really knew was that she didn’t want to lose what they had, and she wanted to get to know him more. Signs pointed that he felt the same for her, but did she risk losing him by saying something? Emi didn’t want to lose him before they were even a thing.

This trip was all about making memories, Crow had said so himself. So Emi tried to focus more on that. Today they woke up early and went to go see the waterfalls. They had enjoyed the view, fed some birds and Emi even snapped a few pictures of the gorgeous view for her article. Halfway through the trip back the sky darkened and it started to pour. The rain came out of nowhere, it was heavy, and it didn’t seem to let up. See, there was little that scared Emi. Storms, more specifically thunder storms, terrified her. Her parents were never around to comfort her during them, most of the time she just hid under the covers and panicked until the thunder stopped.

So Emi didn’t want to walk back when the first crack of thunder echoed through the woods. She fucking ran, and the girl had a good set of running legs from her old track and field days. Once the house was in sight though another loud clap sounded and it caused her to roll her ankle, the poor thing smacking to the ground and skidding across the concrete. “Stupid ass thunder!” Emi grumbled as she stood to her feet and limped inside, her hand wiping the blood off of her scraped up cheek. The house was dark, and the lights wouldn’t flip on. “Anyone home?” Everyone was doing their own thing today, she didn’t think anyone would have made it home yet.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Luna

For over ten years Zuki had never been able to leave the city. Once she got involved with the Suits she had the funds but never the desire to go anywhere. Now she had friends, and Daisuke. Already she could tell this vacation would be the first of many; hanging on the beach (getting burned from forgetting sunscreen), exploring the woods, and just enjoying their time together. She was ready to go explore all the places they could. When they’re married, of course. So they could share a room. The thought made her almost embarrassed of herself. Daisuke was so innocent, and Zuki was as fucked up as they come. He couldn’t find a more messed up girl if he tried.

“I don’t think this rain is going to let up.” They had been out exploring the town since she couldn’t handle any more time in the sun. After exploring a few cute little shops and walking around the plaza in the center the rain started to come down hard. So, here they were, sitting in a little cafe sipping drinks and eating sweets. “It’s a twenty minute walk back to the villa, or two minutes that way to a hotel. We could get a couple rooms to wait it out. I’ll even get one a whole floor away from you if that makes you comfortable.” A small smirk tugged at her lips as she teased him, playfully tapping his foot underneath the table.

 

[Colt Voltage]

Crow

The group had done the majority of exploration the past few days together. Everything was so new and awesome! Way better than the pictures. But no one told him about the damn mosquitos, all Candy told him was to bring sunscreen. He brought a whole bag full but never thought to bring any bug spray! The poor guy had bumps everywhere. On top of that, Asa saved his “boss for the day” for a later date, where he’d actually have the full day to be the boss. It made Crow think of the worst things possible; how would he mess up his system at home? Would Asa delete everything on his computer? Would the cat get his office? He really, really, really should have drawn out a contract. Fucking Kraken.

Today was the test drive of the boat, one where him and Candy would take it for a spin. Also known as operation Crow and Candy is a go. He dressed to the nines (over the top as always), had a captains hat and called himself captain Crow. He had everything below deck of the large luxury boat to make a nice dinner. He had step by step printed, he was sure he couldn’t fuck it up. He had even gotten her a bouquet of interesting looking flowers! She was so much better than basic ass roses.

They had drove out a few hours to sea and Crow was below deck doing fairly well at cooking. It was just steak and mashed potatoes, he couldn’t really mess it up. Once it was finished he served it up on the nice plate ware and walked upstairs to serve Candy on deck at the table. The wind was picking up, the waves were rocking, and the sky was beginning to darken. When did that happen? He read clear skies all week. “Huh, weather looks shitty.” Don’t fuck up his plans, sky demons. “Anyway! I know it’s soon but I wanted to cook you something nice. You deserve it.” And he had something to ask. That made his face heat up. “Candy, where do you see yourself in the future? Short term…long term? Because whenever I see my future I see it with you.” He placed the plates down and sat at the table with a bashful smile. This was easier said than done.

 

[Sir Damien]

Doc

This week had been by far the best week of Asa’s life. There was no way this was going to last, right? Fun in the sun, booze a plenty with his friends, good food, amazing sights, the girl he loved. It was his first time leaving the city and he wanted to never go back. Akari could get a job out here right? Everyone needed a good plastic surgeon especially in rich beach areas like this. Unfortunately he knew they had to go back, but he wanted to soak up all the good times they could get. Like today. It was the first day they all went about their own business and Akari wanted to get some more time in the sun. Asa could always use a little bit more sun, maybe it would tan his nose and hide the scar. So he found himself out in the water with Akari once more.

Until the rain hit. Hadn’t Crow said the weather would be good all week? Was this a sudden storm that decided to hit? Either way the rain hit HARD. It fell like bullets coming from the sky, hit so hard that it felt like every drop would bruise them. He was quick to cover Akari with a towel so they could run to the closest shelter they could find…which happened to be the pool house? Once inside he flipped on the light, only to notice that it started to flicker as the winds started to pick up. “That won’t last long. Fuck, I’ll start a fire so we can warm up.” He grabbed a dry towel and wrapped it around her before turning and walking away.

As he approached the small fireplace his steel gray eyes looked around. This house must have doubled as a guest house? There were rooms, a bathroom and bedroom he guessed, and a little kitchenette. A small couch by the little fireplace. It was quaint. He tossed in a few of the small logs, a couple crumbled up papers and some lighter fluid before flicking on the lighter. Just as the fire lit the first round of thunder cracked and the power went out as well. “Just in time.”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Sherlock

Everything was going by too fast, it was hard to really soak it all in. Somehow time both stopped and sped forward while they were away from the city and all Akari knew was that she never wanted to go back. The city meant all the drama and all the bad memories, all the shit she knew she had to handle. Sure it also held everything that she loved, like her job and her sense of purpose but honestly she was starting to not care about those things as the bas stuffed slowly tipped the scales. Here she was able to just be with the people she cared about... all of her friends, Emi... Asa. If you had told her a year ago that she was going to be so attached to these people she would have laughed in your face but now... they were her family. Her best friend. And the man she loved.

Loved. Hah. It still felt strange. Akari had told Emi, one night the girls had stayed up at the bonfire after everyone had fallen asleep and Akari gushed. It was something she had never done before, Emi was the girly one with crushes, the ones boys liked and paid attention to. Akari had always avoided that topic all together, but now it was different. She told Emi she was so nearly sure that she was in love with that stupid man, now she just had to tell him.

"Ouch!" Akari was shaken from her thoughts when the first rain drop pelted her skin, causing her to sit up quickly from where she was lounging on the beach. Asa was quickly throwing a towel over her and the two of them were running towards the house. The rain came down harder, between that and the wind picking up it was quickly becoming apparent that they needed to find shelter so they went into the pool house on property since it was much closer to the beach. Inside they threw the door shut and Akari let out a long sigh. "Where the hell did that all come from?" She looked around after he got her a dry towel. Was this a pool house or a guest house? She supposed it could double as both but it seemed very cute to ever be used as simply a changing area.

As soon as Asa got the fire going the power went out and Akari sighed. "Lovely. I'll see if there's any candles and some clothes okay?" She pulled the towel tighter around her shivering shoulders and began to look in the bedroom. She was able to find some generic pajama type clothes in a dresser in there and some extra blankets but that was about it. She grabbed a large sweatshirt and a pair of shorts for herself and quickly changed before bringing some clothes out to Asa as well. "No candles that I found but heres so dry stuff."

Akari moved away and over to the window to peer out into the quickly darkening outside. From here she could see that the waves were wild and the sky nearly looked like night. She herself had always loved a good storm but she couldn't help but think about the others. Crow and Candy were out on a boat for fucks sake! Emi hated storms and god knows where Zuki and Daisuke had gone. The thought made Akari shiver again, only this time not from the cold.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Candy

Candy was really excited for a day out on the boat! Sure the idea of Crow trying to drive anything was fairly terrifying but at least this was on water and not hard asphalt? Plus this meant the two of them would get to spend some time together. Not that Candy hadn't been enjoying her time with everyone, in fact it had been one of the best vacations of her entire life. But her social battery was close to E and she was looking forward to hanging out with someone who had the same mental capacity for people as she did. Plus it was Crow.. of course she wanted to be around him.

"This is all so amazing!" Candy sighed to herself as she sat on the deck of the boat waiting for Crow. She had offered assistance a million times but he told her no and ordered her to stay upstairs while he cooked. So she did, sitting and watching the waves for a little while. The flowers he had gotten her sat on the side of the table and occasionally she would glance at them and feel her face heat up. He had really put some thought into those, of course she would have been flattered by any flowers but these were just so much more her than any roses or anything like that.

After a short while Crow came back up to the deck with their meals in hand. He mentioned the weather and she looked around, she hadnt really realized it but the waves had picked up a small bit and they sky was getting darker but she really thought it was just normal? Though when she did look towards the horizon it did seem like a storm could be starting to roll in. Candy was about to respond to the weather comment Crow made when he began to speak again, only this time his words made her head snap in his direction. In all their years of knowing each other she had never seen him so serious, so soft-spoken.

"I-I-I" Stammering wasn't new to her by any means but for once Candy actually felt like she might be unable to get words out. "Uhm." Get it together girl! It felt... unreal. Part of her wanted to pinch herself to make sure she wasn't dreaming. "I have been so unsure of my future ever since my parents death. I thought I knew what my life was going to be, I was half way through school and doing well. Then everything got tossed on me with the bar and everything else. I love it, I do. But I don't know if I can tell you what I see for sure." She paused, her face going red slowly. "That said, I do know that despite how fuzzy and crazy it all is, ever since I met you... well spoke to you... I imagined, dreamed, hoped... that you would be with me. Whatever ends up happening. Now that I've met you in person, gotten to know you better, it's just so much more clear to me that I want to be with you, Hideki."

 

[KAYDEN]

Daisuke Tanaka

After the first day on their trip Daisuke this place was where to have his and Zukis wedding. Sure, he made her promise to have the real thing later, but here? With all their friends in a place as beautiful as this? It was perfect. Now he just needed to figure out when to do it and how to make sure it was legal. Earlier in the week he had gone into town and used his money to get the local civil government to get him a marriage license. Now it was just doing it. He wasn’t sure why he was so nervous about it, the two of them had been very open with their emotions ever since that night at the bar, but for some reason he was so nervous to fuck it all up.

“I don’t appreciate your teasing maam.” Daisuke sent her a look while a gentle smile played on his lips. He glanced outside and watched as people ran between coverage, trying their best to stay out of the rain and increasing winds. It probably wasn’t safe to try and walk all the way back to the house like this. The woman from the shop came over to their table with a worried look on her face and Daisuke turned to her with a raised brow. She explained that they were going to be closing early because of the weather. Told him that it seemed the storm was sudden, a bad mix of weather and underwater seismic activity was going to make this a bad one… it might last days. As they spoke the power flickered and Daisuke nodded, pulling some money from his pocket and handing it to her before quickly gathering him and Zukis things from the day.

“Come on love, let’s get going to this woman can get home as well.” Daisuke helped Zuki up and held her hand as they two of them made their way outside. It was so much worse than he thought out here, inside they could tell the winds looked crazy but being in it was different. A loud noise rang out and Daisuke looked around to see a tree had come down, taking out a power line. “Shit! Okay come on.” He pulled Zuki along, sticking close to the sides of buildings and trying to keep them out of the rain as best as he could but at this point if was coming from every direction.

Shortly they arrived at the hotel to find a lobby full of people who must have been doing the same, trying to find some sort of shelter while out and about in town. The poor woman at the desk was trying her best to figure it all out for everyone but was struggling, the power was out and everyone was panicked. “Wait here.” Daisuke cut through the crowd and interrupted a man who looked at him like he was crazy but oh well. “I’ll rent your whole hotel. Just give me the amount and get all these people rooms. Don’t worry about payment, they just want shelter. I’ll handle the payment when your power is back on but to show in good for it here.” Daisuke pulled a blank check from his check book and handed it to the woman who looked at him with wide eyes. “If you don’t think I’m good for it you can fill out whatever amount you want and I’ll sign. Plus now you have my info to sue me down the line. All I ask is for the key to your best room.” She didn’t say words, simply took the check and shoved it in her register before handing him and key and starting to call the clamoring people forward.

Daisuke pushed back through everyone and found Zuki, dangling the key in front of her. “One room, happy?” He smirked and tossed an arm over her shoulder, “But it’s on the 3rd floor and the powers out so to the stairs we go.”

 

[EclipseRosee]

Kage;Shadow

Kage was trying his best to listen to Zuki and Daisuke, to allow himself to enjoy things. But for so long he had been so conditioned that he didn't deserve it, that all he brought was doom. It was hard to break out of that! Plus he really didn't know if he believed it himself! He killed people for a living. But... so did Zuki and she was allowing herself to enjoy life, he just didn't know how she did it. He knew it had to be hard for her, she wasn't a naïve woman and she wasn't numb to the things she did... they all might have acted like it but they werent. Kage only hoped he would get there someday as well.

This trip had been slowly melting him, Kage was trying his best to not focus on whether he deserved this and more on just enjoying it. He could feel guilty when he got back to the city. Plus, it was hard to focus on the bad now that Emi and him were talking again. She was so positive that it was fucking infectious. They spent most of the trip together, he felt himself naturally gravitate towards her, she was everything that he wasn't and likewise and somehow they both still enjoyed their time together. They looked at people in a similar fashion, had similar views on family and friends, loyalty. They just went about their views in wildly different ways. But when it boiled down to it, both of them were protectors in their own way. The two of them just filled in the parts the other person was missing. Emi was bold and bright, she was always ready to do whatever even without thinking it through. Kage sometimes thought too much and was very much not bright... it just worked somehow.

Today everyone kind of did their own thing and Kage tagged along on a hike with Emi while she also got some work in. However on their way back a storm rolled in and before Kage knew it, Emi was off running. Normally catching up with her would have been easy but now she was running like she had never ran before. "Emi! Hold on! Be careful!" This woman. Kage groaned and went off after her, catching up as she pulled herself up off the ground and limped inside. Kage was after her shortly, closing the door quickly and taking in a few deep breaths to try and catch his breath after running through all the bullshit outside.

"No one is home. If they were it would be louder." Kage spoke plainly as he walked over to her, not asking as he scooped her up and headed towards the upstairs bathroom. It was useless to scold her for getting hurt, he was quickly learning that was just a part of being around her. The only thing he could do was always try and prevent it from happening. Upstairs he found the large bathroom and walked in, placing her gently on the counter with her back towards the mirror before handing her his phone. "Flashlight please. And try and call the others while I look for some first aid supplies okay?" Kage went through drawers in the dark, thankfully his eyes were slowly adjusting and it wasn't pitch black thanks to the window but it wasnt bright and sunny outside anymore. Finally he found a kit and pulled it out, opening it to grab some antiseptic and a bandage.

"I take it you dont like storms?" Kage looked down at her as he leaned close, "This might sting." He gave her a small smile before starting to clean up her cheek, one hand was holding the wipe while the other gently held her jaw so she wouldn't flinch much. "I don't like them either, I never cared much about them when I was young. They don't scare me or anything but they bring up bad shit." He was hoping that sharing his story would make her calm down a bit. "My mom was killed on a night it was storming. It wasn't because of the storm or anything but I can still remember the sounds of thunder and rain when I watched it happen. It was so loud, for the longest time I thought it was the reason they chose that night to kill her. That they chose that day so the weather would drown out the noise of any struggle. I know differently now, that it was just a coincidence. The real reason they chose that night was because it was the night that Kai told them to come."

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Sunny

How could he pick her up like it was nothing? Immediately her heart started to beat from how close he had been holding her. Emi however was both terrified from the storm and head over heels for Kage, so she couldn’t help but look at him with heated cheeks with a bashful smile. During the night of the bonfire Akari confided in her about the feelings she had for Asa and Emi encouraged her to say something to him. The two were basically a couple and those feelings were normal. Scary, but normal! Emi only wished she could tell Kage what she felt, but she was terrified he would never reciprocate. Sure, as a teenager Emi would have crushes here and there but they all wanted her for status or money. Kage wanted none of that from her, he was around her because…well, she really didn't know why. They got along rather well despite having completely different personalities. He was fine with her knowing his name. There had to be something more than friendship there…right?

“Oh, uh, sure!” The pair had entered the large bathroom and he was handing her his phone, quickly she shook off the shy feelings and flipped on the camera. As she tried to dial the others though she found the calls wouldn’t go through, noticing that he didn’t have any signal. “I think the storm must be jamming the signal, maybe it took out the cell tower or something?” Despite having the flashlight on and having the little light from the window it was still spooky, if she had been alone she’d be buried under a blanket waiting for it to pass. But having Kage around boosted her confidence, they could do anything together. Hell the two of them beat death a few times together in only a few months. So as he searched the bathroom she moved the flashlight to try and help him.

Soon he was back, taking her face in his hand and leaning in close. And then there was that smile of his, it melted her heart and drove her crazy! It made her silently grateful for the dark, he wouldn’t see her bright red face. When the antiseptic touched her cheek she couldn’t even flinch, she was far too distracted by looking over his face and listening to him. It truly broke her heart. He had watched his mom being killed? His own brother had set it up… how was he still functioning? “I-I’m so sorry. I should have never believed him…I just wanted to make you happy. You of all people deserve it, you’re always busy protecting others. I worry that you’re putting your happiness on the back burner, like you don’t deserve it or something. I want to be the one that puts you first and looks out for you, because you deserve it. You’re my favorite person, you have the best smile, and I love-“

What did she want to say? I love you, I love being by your side…she didn’t quite know herself. At this point she was speaking from the heart when another loud crack of thunder sounded, but this time it was paired with a another sound. She didn’t know what it was until a large branch was breaking the window and making her whole body flinch. The bandage was fixed on her cheek now and she wanted off of the second floor where trees wouldn’t fall on them. “Will you tell me more? I want to know more about you, if that’s okay. Good or bad, whatever you want to talk about. I-I can make you s’mores! We have all the stuff downstairs, and there’s even the fireplace.” Her fingertips pushed some of his white hair from his face so she could smile sweetly up at him for a moment. Emi never got to be this close to him (other than the time she gave him CPR), but it was really nice and made her heart beat like crazy. “Oh, we should probably get changed into dry clothes first or we’ll get sick. So uh, meet you downstairs?”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Luna

It wasn’t long ago when Zuki had the same thought process as Kage did. They murdered people, bad people but it was still murder. Getting people involved in their lives was dangerous, separating themselves from others was the easiest option. But with personalities as positive and persistent as Emi and Daisuke, it was hard to stay away from them. Daisuke was everything she wasn’t; sweet, kind, positive and radiant. Zuki decided that it was time to enjoy her time on earth with someone, and if that required a little extra work to protect that someone then so be it. Neither her nor Kage were monsters, they deserved some happiness in life.

Soon the pair was moving from the cafe to the hotel, sticking close to the buildings to try to avoid the torrent of rain. The sky was black, the wind was heavy and the rain was even heavier, the power lines were coming down and it was going to be like this for a few days? Of course this was their luck. Despite the downpour she looked down at her phone to try and call some of the others but, much to her dismay, there was no service. That option was out. Thankfully they arrived at the hotel, though the lobby was just as chaotic as outside was. Daisuke was even slipping away from her to go to the desk! This was Daisuke, he was always up to something. She watched him from across the way and leaned against a wall, pushing some of her wet black bangs out of her face. As he ripped out the check from his checkbook she put two and two together and she couldn’t help but smirk to herself. See? Everything she wasn’t. Who just buys the hotel of all of their rooms to help people? “Ah, only one room huh? Oh, yes, quite happy.”

Quickly she slid out from under his arm and took hold of his hand, leading him through the dark hallway to the stairs. As they entered the near pitch black stairway she flicked on the flashlight on her phone. Her black boots tapped against the stairs as she led him up the three flights, her fingers lacing together with his as they made it to the top. Her free hand took the key from him and shone the light on the room numbers until she found the right one. “Thankfully it’s an old school hotel with keys and not key cards.” It wasn’t two steps into the room when Zuki realized what the room was. “My oh my Daisuke it seems you’ve got us the honeymoon suite. Here I was planning to be on my best behavior.”

The room had a large balcony attached to it, and even though it was dark outside the lightning helped light up the room along with her flashlight. “I tried to call the others but it seems like cell towers might be down. Guess we dry off and hang out for a few days?” Zuki walked into the bathroom and grabbed a couple towels, walking back to Daisuke so she could hand him one. “It has a nice view and it’s a nice room. Thanks for this. You up for some storm watching?” She shot a sweet smile up at him as she dried off her wet hair.

 

[Colt Voltage]

Crow

This was going all too well, it was like one of those damn movies he had watched. What did he expect from Candy? To laugh at him? She wasn’t that type of girl, but he definitely didn’t expect her to say she wanted to be with him too! He was absolutely and positively walking on sunshine right now. “I’m constantly unsure about my future, if that makes you feel better. All I know is I want to be with you too. And really whatever comes our way we can face head on, together. I love you Cho and I really want to be with you. So uh, if you do me the honor in being my girlfriend I promise to always protect you, look out for you, and love it you.” Did he sound corny? The only person he had ever felt something for was this woman here. “And if any guy comes near you, I solemnly swear to chop him in the throat. Anytime, anywhere!”

Just as he made his proclamation the boat rocked, a heavier rock than before. “Oh! We should eat before the weather gets bad. Then I’ll bring us in. So much for a sunset... maybe another night? You got plans for tomorrow? It can be a first date as a couple…if you’ll have me as your boyfriend that is.” The sky was darkening rather quickly but he was sure they had time to eat. Underneath the table had the ice bucket with champagne, quickly pulling the bottle out and giving a proud smile. He popped the bottle open and held it away from him as some poured out. Once it was done he reached out and poured them each a glass. “Cheers? To our future, our very unclear future. But at least we’ll tackle it together.”

 

[Sir Damien]

Doc

“Ah, thank you.” As Asa stood from the fire Akari was returning with some dry clothes. She walked away to observe the storm he assumed and he changed into the sweatshirt that surprisingly fit and the sweats. “Everyone will be fine. Crow is a genius right? He’ll figure out survival on a boat. Daisuke is more capable than he appears, Zuki is tough as nails. And Emi-…well, Shadow is with her right?” With a small chuckle he walked over to her with a throw blanket that was nearby. “Don’t worry. You haven’t ever wanted to watch a nice storm with someone you love?” Love. Asa had never exactly said those words to her but it came from his mouth so naturally. He wasn’t one for many words, but hopefully that eased her a bit. Or distracted her from what was on her mind?

Asa wrapped the blanket around her shoulders before he wrapped his arms around her from behind in a warm embrace, hoping to ease her shivers. “Want to sit by the fire? It’s not as useful as candles but it’s better than nothing. It’ll warm us up. Looks like the storm will be going on for a while. I’m going to look to see what this place has to eat.” He planted a quick kiss on the top of her head before moving over to the kitchenette. There was no power so popcorn was out of the question, but there had been some nice looking fruit in the dark fridge. Quickly he retrieved some apples, grapes, cheese, and the crackers on top of the fridge and sat them out on the counter. After opening a few cupboards he found a plate, a knife, and he was able to create a nice spread of snacks.

“Here. And some water, after all that sun you need to hydrate. Good for the skin.” Asa sat down next to the fire and placed the snack plate and waters down. Quietly he plopped a slice of apple in his mouth and looked out the sliding glass door at the storm. “What are your plans when we take down the Suits? I heard that they’ve been rebuilding your apartment complex, too. Are you…” The thought of her leaving made him feel empty? “I guess what I’m asking is, where do you see yourself living? With the Fixers? In your old apartment with Emi? I have a rather nice apartment myself, if that interests you. If the fixers split up I’d go back there…you’re more than welcome to live with me. Pet free, cleaned by a maid weekly. Only one room but I’m sure you’d have fun decorating it.” He just didn’t want to lose her. They were boyfriend and girlfriend but besides that he was still terrified of her leaving. What if she got bored of him?

 

[ZombieBaee]

Sherlock

Asa had a point about everyone being okay, Akari knew that, but still, it was her literal job to help keep people safe… it was hard to not feel like she should be doing something. “I know, I’m trying I prom-“ Her words caught in her throat as he continued on from telling her to not worry. Did Asa just say love? She was fairly sure she had never even heard him say he liked anything let alone love it. Was he saying he loved her? The blanket went around her shoulders quickly followed by his arms and Akari felt as if she might melt. So much for being cold she supposed. Suddenly it was very easy for her to place her worry in the back of her mind.

“Oh sure.” Akari smiled softly as he kissed the top of her head and moved away to go get them something to eat. She had known the rest of the home had been stocked when they arrived in vacation so she only hoped the pool house was as well. Akari moved and got herself comfortable on the ground near the fire, changing her attention every so often from the flames dancing before her to the storm outside.

This seemed like an omen, she had to admit. Everything inside this small place, with Asa, was warm and safe. It kept them protected from the world going to shit around them, right now literally but… when they got back to New Tokyo… she shook her head free of the thoughts, choosing to try and not focus on impending doom. Thankfully soon Asa rejoined her with a plate full of snacks and she gave him a small thanks.

“It’s still so funny to me how sweet you are when no one’s looking.” Akari looked over at him, searching his face for the look of annoyance she was sure she would be receiving due to her comment. “I mean when we first met you rated my looks on a scale of 1-100 before saying anything of substance to me at all. And now here you are, bringing me snacks and water.” She smiled over at him, she was teasing him sure but if she was being honest she loved all sides of him. The brutally honest side, this secret sweet side, the hardworking guy who was doing his best to grow, the man who was no longer running away. She loved all of him.

“M-My plans?” Akari was kind of taken back by the question, her face growing warm once again as he continued to speak. “I-I-I mean I guess I haven’t really thought about it.” She took a beat to take in a breath before continuing, “I don’t want to move backwards, I know that much. I love Emi, she will always be in my life and always be close but… realistically we can’t live together on our own forever. She’s always wanted a family, so I always knew some day we would be apart but… I never knew what I wanted.” Akari pulled her knees up and wrapped her arms around them as she spoke, “I still don’t really, but whatever it is I want it to be with you. Whether I stay with the Fixers for a while, or if we go to your apartment or even find our own place together. I just- I want to be with you.”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Candy

Candy thought she might pass out if she was being honest, all the doubt she had about anything ever happening with Crow was gone and he was telling her that he loved her! Asking her to be his girlfriend. It was all so much, good, but so much! “Of course!” Candy exclaimed maybe a bit too loudly but she couldn’t help it. She was so stupidly happy! So much so that she stood up from the table and threw her arms around Crow without a second thought, her head rested against her shoulder and she squeezed him tight. “God, it took you long enough!” Candy pulled back slightly with a bright smile before sticking her tongue out at him. After a little while she let her arms drop and she reached up to mess up his hair, “And I love you too Hideki.”

The two of them ended up sitting down and having their meal, though towards the end the boat was rocking quite violently. They finished up and made their way up to the controls after putting away their plates and such from dinner to avoid any broken glass. Crow was at the wheel and Candy had placed herself in the other seat up top near him, refusing to go downstairs like he asked her to a million times.

“Crow I really think we should just anchor and both go downstairs and wait this out, it’s so much darker towards shore and who knows how bad it is.” Candy clicked at her cell phone screen again, trying to get any sort of service for seemingly the thousandth time. She could make no calls, check no apps, she couldn’t even get the weather to load to try and see how long this storm was expected to last. Neither of them on the boat were well versed in driving it OR nature in general so things weren’t looking good.

“I can’t get ahold of the others, nothing is working on my phone at all. Storm must have knocked out the towers or something.” Candy adjusted nervously in the seat, they were getting doused in rain already and tossed around in the waves. They were fairly protected up here but not as well as they should be.