judgement day || mulouthurster

Louis could feel Mujin's eyes on him--he was hyper-aware of everyone else probably looking at him as well, but he felt comfort being under Mujin's watchful gaze. Even though he knew the prince would be angry, he himself had little reason to worry over that anymore. He doubted the youngest would be upset that he hadn't been completely honest about everything. While he could have told him or Aster when they were younger, it had just been easier--in his mind--to deal with his home life when he had to, and find solace in his friends as often as he could. But as he watched his mother begin to break down, and his father's expression begin to change, he felt better...but it would be a while, even after their deaths, until he would be healed completely. If that was even possible anymore.

Aster held the imaginary's hand in return, setting his other hand over Arthur's to hold the man's hand between his own. If only he had caught sight of Chiwoo...he would have tried to comfort him as well. This probably brought up some of the halfling's own emotional wounds, especially since Deimos' parents had never been very kind to him, either. Maybe this would bring attention to a lot of issues in that village--even if all of them had left it, he was sure there were other problems that could be dealt with if the others paid attention enough to actually see it all.

The major's eyes settled on Chiwoo's tear-streaked face for only a moment before he sat back down, wanting to apologize to him all over again...he'd not been very kind to the other, either. But he also hadn't meant to hurt him as terribly as his parents had actually aimed to. It was no excuse to use his own torment from home as a reason to not treat the hybrid as he should have, but maybe some of his violent tendencies made a bit more sense after everything he'd confessed. He had plenty of time to make up for it, hopefully.

Back between two of his boyfriends, he felt safe again, even if the anxiety had washed over him full-force in those moments he'd let a fraction of his anger out. He'd said what he needed to say, and walking away from them without fear of being hurt again felt...nice. It should not feel as nice as it did to know that he'd never have to face them again. And while he'd nearly regretted showing up to begin with, he was relieved that he'd actually spoken up this time. Feeling vulnerable was definitely not easy for him, but it was just a blip on the radar--everything from here on out would be different.

While he'd wanted to bring Aster's attention to his tearful brother behind them, he attention was grabbed for the moment when he heard that Mujin would be doing the sentencing. He knew the overall outcome, but he had not been expecting the punishments beyond death. Now holding both of his boyfriend's hands he brought them to the tops of his thighs, gripping both of them tightly while pressing the backs of their hands to one another's.

Deimos didn't cry. Maybe he should have--maybe it'd feel nice to let the anxiety and uncertainty out. But not in front of his parents, and even if he wanted to, his full attention was back on Mujin. The major could sense and see his anger, somewhat regretful of putting him into this situation...but it was for the best, and he knew it. Both Aster and Deimos gave slight nods at Arthur's words, Aster understanding more than the youngest major how big of a deal that was. Louis shifted a little in his spot when the young prince approached the cages, not liking that he was so close to his parents...even if his father couldn't hurt him, it still set off every protective bone in Louis' body. But, he kept himself steady and listened, his leg bouncing slightly to get some of that negative energy out.

Aster's expression changed quite a bit more than Louis' did--he was caught off guard at the sentencing, having heard of these punishments over the years, but they were...ancient, it felt like. Long before any of them had been walking the earth, barely stars in the skies, even. Louis somehow kept a neutral expression except for his jaw tensing, chewing on the inside of his cheek while he listened and watched.

To say he was...relieved to know that his father's soul would rot in purgatory for the rest to time was an understatement. He hadn't even thought too much on their souls reincarnating--would he have run into them if Mujin had not thought about this? Sure, his mother may be spared if the Gods so wished, but his father didn't deserve the kindness of pleading for mercy. He let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding once their young prince had stepped away, and out of the room. The whispers went underheard and Deimos hesitated, but slowly pushed himself up to his feet, letting his boyfriends' hands slip free of his own. He was on the move even before Arthur had finished his sentence, and Aster knew he was going after Mujin. The oldest sighed a bit when the chaotic major hopped the short barrier (he could have just taken the gate, but of course he didn't), but tensed slightly when Louis slowed his steps, looking towards his parents in the cages.

"Burn in hell," he all but hissed, not bothering to lower his voice, either. Everyone in the court could hear him and he obviously didn't care. The majors that guarded the steps up to the king and queen, along with the royals' exit from the court, couldn't catch Deimos quickly enough before he'd pushed past the heavy doors after the prince.

Aster didn't take it personally that their Deimos wanted to catch up to Mujin, knowing full-well that they'd all have time together soon enough. Those two had a special bond that he didn't fully understand, but he fully accepted. He reached up to touch Arthur's pale cheek, looking concerned, but he nearly lost his own temper when he saw Chiwoo crying. "Hey, hey.." he pulled a Deimos and pushed himself over the barrier to the seating behind them, quickly wrapping his arms around his little brother to hold him closely, protectively. He knew that the young halfling had suffered his own abuse over the years...be it at the hands of the two in the cages, even the rest of the village in a way--and of course in other ways, so he wasn't too surprised at this reaction, but damn did it make Aster want to request a stab or two himself. Maybe he could sneak a word in with the King and Queen... "Here, come on, let's get out of here," he agreed with Arthur, but he kept his brother close, ushering him out of the seating area to where he could take hold of Arthur's hand as well. The oldest kept his other arm around Chiwoo, noting that their father was speaking to some of the village elders...no need to strike up a conversation themselves.

Aster glanced back at the two in the cages for just a moment, hatred and anger burning in his deep blue eyes, but he didn't want the others to see such an expression on him...so those feelings were quickly pushed away for later. "Chi, stay with us for a little while, okay? Arthur, will you come back with us or...did you want to go find those two?" The major didn't even know if Deimos was supposed to find Mujin, but he wasn't one to question those actions too much.

The younger major wasn't great at thinking of consequences right off the bat, so going after Mujin--through doors he probably wasn't even supposed to touch--was instinctual at this point. He felt a little bad for leaving Arthur and Aster since he knew both of them would also be a good comfort, but he just...wanted to be with Mujin in that moment.

Thankfully he was pretty quick, so it wouldn't be a big game of hide-and-seek with the maids and other majors chasing him around. He'd apologize if he needed to for intruding on an area he probably wasn't supposed to be in, but he felt a break in that anxiety once he caught up to the youngest. He reached out to take a loose hold of his wrist, not wanting to just grab him up and startle him if he hadn't heard Deimos coming. But once he'd let Mujin know he was there he couldn't help but to wrap his arms around him, nuzzling into his soft hair as his walls finally began to crumble. While he wanted to say something--anything--he just couldn't get the right words to come to him, so he just held onto the prince if Mujin allowed him to, tears finally spilling over his cheeks, albeit silently.

It was over, and the relief was immense, but also overwhelming.

huimang-ia​:

🔶Echoes of Nirvana {Louthur

judgement day || mulouthurster

Shaking his head when he was asked about medication, Louis didn't want to ask for anything at the moment, nor did he figure medication was going to help this sick feeling. The nausea and anxiety mixed together would be largely untreatable until all of this was over, and even then, he had a feeling the next few days were going to be a little rough, even if he already knew the outcome of the court's ruling. It was obvious, and Mujin had somewhat mentioned before that no matter he circumstances, they'd hurt Mujin and fought back against palace majors. They were fucked, pretty much. And Deimos wasn't upset about it, quite the contrary. But that didn't mean he was fully healed from everything that had been happening for...forever, for himself, at least.

Leaning into the touch to his cheek, he didn't say anything, but nodded to Aster, knowing full-well that this would be worth it, which is why he had even agreed to go in the first place. He wasn't required to, but he felt like a weakling at the mere thought of running from them again.

Being ushered to the court just made his stomach knot up even more, especially when he saw familiar faces from the village, including Aster's (and Chiwoo's) father--his real father, not the mock-one from later in life. He supposed the man was important to the kingdom, but god none of this was helping his nerves. He sat between Aster and Arthur, feeling safe there, as safe as he possibly could in the moment. Again, he knew he wasn't in any real danger, but even the idea of seeing his parents again made every fearful nerve in his body fire up.

Had the others from their previous village known about what his parents had been doing? Maybe, maybe not. Maybe now they wouldn't look at him so judgmentally, knowing that Deimos hadn't just been a problematic child, or a nuisance, or a kid who picked fights with their own kids on occasion. Maybe they'd understand now--but, then again, maybe not.

Looking back when he felt the touch on his shoulder, he was surprised to see Chiwoo, though he figured the deed to the estate would be signed over to him here as well. The smile, albeit awkward, was enough to make his shoulders relax a little--he would have smiled in return, but he just didn't have it in him in that moment. Instead, he touched the younger's hand gently, and Aster gave the hybrid a smile in his place.

Standing as they'd been told, he straightened up, not allowing a slouch or for himself to try to look small, even if he wanted to and felt small. His eyes followed the royal family, meeting the queen's eyes for a short moment, but most of his attention was on Mujin--Cicero--of course. He did look stunning, but Deimos hated that this was the situation he was seeing him in. He sat down as soon as they were allowed to, listening intently even if a lot of it wasn't something he understood.

Being put to death he understood, though. And if he wasn't so anxious he would have smirked the pettiest of smirks at the two who 'raised' him. The scars were earned and he knew it, probably due to lying and denying just about everything in the book. Didn't seem like they got off easily with their lies, either.

Caged, just like he himself had both physically gone through and mentally all up until somewhat recently. It was ironic in the best of ways.

Despite knowing and agreeing to speaking up in the trial of sorts, he still looked briefly like he was wishing he had the invisibility power that Mujin had. He would have given just about anything for it in that brief, panicked moment, but, Deimos gathered himself and got back up, last feeling Aster's hand touch his own as he moved up to the podium. If only the oldest could actually give him strength in that moment.

The young major hadn't even brought notes--he didn't need to. His mind hadn't been kind enough to repress everything that had happened throughout the years, all the memories were just as vivid as they had been the day that it all occurred. But as soon as he was at the raised podium, above his 'parents', he felt a surge of anger run through him, tenfold from what he'd felt before. His father was staring at him, and his mother was staring at the ground, just as she had when he was younger and his father hurt him. Trying to ignore it, to believe it wasn't really happening.

The stare his father gave him held resentment and hatred, just as he figured it would. Even though the older liuxing knew he'd be dying soon, he still didn't back down from his son--not yet, at least. Louis gripped the edge of the podium that would normally be there to stop paperwork or books from sliding off, and his expression changed from nauseous to rage--anyone who knew his temper may still be thrown off by how quickly his demeanor changed.

"You did this to yourself," he said, tone oddly calm despite the sheer hatred in his own eyes. "You should have known you couldn't get away with it forever--hurting me like you did," the scowl on his father's face just made him want to attack him himself, but he stood his ground. "You beat me for years, and you," his mother barely glanced up, "You let it happen, you kept me homeschooled for so long because if I'd stepped foot into a classroom, you couldn't excuse the bruises and broken ribs on a child, right?" It wasn't even a question, really. Because she knew it was true. "But as soon as I was big enough to fight my own fights, it was acceptable, right?" Was this how a confessional was even supposed to go? Aster doubted the major cared, and he doubted that anyone was going to stop him, either.

At the beginning Deimos had only planned to bring up what had happened later in his life--not when he was smaller. Sure, he'd given his boyfriends an idea of what had happened, and of course they'd witnessed it first-hand in the end, but Aster had no idea that it had been going on as long as it had been. It broke his heart. Once Louis finally settled into actually what had happened, and not just getting out some anger, he'd go over just about everything--From the day his mother first saw his father strike him, to the night that his mother didn't bring him to the doctor anymore because of the concern on the physicians' faces. He'd seen the workups he'd gotten after nearly being killed, how there was evidence in his bones of the abuse as well. Hell if he'd ever known that even a liuxing major could show signs of formerly healed breaks and fractures, much like abused human children showed. He'd only survived because he wasn't human.

Deimos spilled everything he could think of--burns, breaks, punches, mental and emotional 'bruising' that had left lasting impacts on him years later. If he was going to be shamed by just merely having his parents put to trial for the abuse towards the prince, he might as well get it all out now, to all the villagers who had pitied his parents for having a terribly behaved son, one they wouldn't even want their own children around. There was no need to hide anything anymore; it'd be aired out in his old home village no matter what was said. Why not show that they'd all been wrong about him?

Maybe he should have thought about sparing his boyfriends and Chiwoo the gory details of what had been happening even during the time they'd known him. From when his father got sick of being asked about bruises to when he'd nearly drowned Deimos in the black water they used to dip red-hot metal into while creating weaponry. To when he'd had to beg them to not hurt Aster for not leaving until later than requested one of the few times Deimos had even brought his friends around--it was no wonder Mujin had never been brought there until adulthood.

Details he knew he'd regret spilling were all but spat at the both of them, including what he remembered of the last time he saw them, even. Deimos had always been too prideful and stubborn to admit to much, even if he'd had to after Arthur and Mujin had seen things first hand. But there was no point in holding back now. He had a feeling even Chiwoo may be asked up for all the terrible things they'd said about him out in public as well, but he hoped the halfling didn't have to step up there like he did. But hell, if Chiwoo wanted to call them out for the terrible treatment as well, he'd welcome it--his parents had been cruel to many more than just himself, and he knew it.

By the time he felt he should be 'done' he was out of breath, not out of incidents. But that was good enough. His father's face had gone from what he knew to fear--which made the young major happy. His mother was in tears, but his father was scared and hell, if he could be the one to stab him in the heart to end him, Deimos would have begged for it. His father knew there was no way out of this, even if he hadn't hurt the prince. One of the female majors from before had finally stepped forward when Louis went quiet, clenching his jaw and tense hands threatening to snap part of that solid wood podium off from the base. She touched his elbow, which made him jerk a little, but relaxed now that he was no longer met with his father's gaze. They'd both given quiet apologies and she made sure the slightly unsteady man got back to the small gate that opened back up for him, Louis not bothering to look up at anyone in the small crowd that he recognized to see if they still believed he was the bad kid that they all thought he was. He didn't care.

Aster looked to Arthur as the middle-child of sorts stepped back up to them, obviously stunned and having no idea even half of that had happened--he knew it was bad but not that bad. Deimos sunk back down into his spot between the two of them, swearing they could probably heart his heart race, but he tried to keep himself steady despite being out of breath. No one had stopped him, so he assumed his long-winded tangent of terrible happenings hadn't been unneeded or believed to be unfounded.

Aster touched the man's thigh and patted him softly beneath the table that was in front of them, trying to not let the concern show too much on his face--he didn't know how fragile Deimos would be after all of that, and he highly doubted that the younger major wanted to break down while his parents (or anyone but his boyfriends) were there, so, instead, he stayed quiet and squeezed his leg a little, showing it was going to be okay--that they were still there. Louis set a hand over the oldest's but didn't look at him, staring at the glass of water on the table in front of him instead.

It was evident that the man was still holding something back--more than likely a violent lashing out at his parents. So, this was good, he'd come back without jumping the podium to the cages that he would have tried to find a way to rip open had he let his temper get the better of him. Aster pressed a quick kiss to the tense man's shoulder, taking a quick glance back to Chiwoo and then his own father.

What a mess.

Cheetah { Mumos }

Deimos had never really needed to drive--it wasn't that he was fully against humans' inventions, including cars, he just...well. Small towns to grow up in, and his family had other was of travel, not that he figured they would have allowed him to drive a car even if they'd had one.

"Nah, not really gotten the chance," he shrugged, but was still amused at the fact that Mujin talked the alien into letting him drive that car of his. While the youngest of the quad was trustworthy with many things, he'd never thought too much about driving...stealing horses would have been easier, but much easier to catch them in their escapades. So, car it was.

"It can't be that hard, can it?" It seemed pretty easy, at least in Louis' eyes. If humans could do it, they certainly could. Besides, they could always look up how to drive if they needed...youtube would certainly have tutorials, right?

Maybe his trust in the young liuxing wasn't a great idea, but even if something did happen, they weren't nearly as fragile as humans were. Arthur and Aster would have their heads on a platter for sure if they got into an accident and got hurt--but hell, he'd been shot, they'll be fine.

It wasn't Ethirdil who had been the only one amused about the age thing, but he'd teased less so he didn't get his ass kicked by his lovely prince. Thankfully the elf hadn't snitched on him for being so amused, and his own true age worked out in the long run--not that he necessarily looked his age in human years, but whatever. Humans were dumb, again, they'd be fine.

Deimos made sure their bags were in the back and out of the way, then slipped into the car, looking around it curiously. He'd been in cars, of course, but not often in the front, and not often in one like this. "The roads aren't that huge, just don't hit anyone too early," he teased, giving the other a playful glance. Still, the next thing he made sure they both had was a seatbelt...even if gravity and movement didn't work like they did with humans, better safe than sorry. Especially when he noticed the youngest floating a little--hopefully that'd stop soon enough.

Just as he'd figured, things calmed and Mujin seemed to relax, so he himself relaxed, digging around in his pocket to pull out his phone. "Yeah, GPS is easier than the maps," lazy? Maybe, but there was a map in the glovebox if they needed. Not that reading human maps would be super easy. Jumping a little when the very-british-sounding voice came out of his phone, he huffed, "Ethir fucked with my settings," English wasn't his forte (even if he knew enough) and an accent like that surely wasn't going to make it easier to understand. Shifting his settings back to Korean, he set his phone into the cupholder with the volume up enough to guide them, lifting his arm up to prop against Mujin's seat, his fingers absently toying with a few of the dark curls that blew around in the breeze.

"Cowboy hats? Isn't that further away in another state?" didn't each state have their weird things? They weren't in that yeehaw state, "Maybe, I'm sure we can find you a hat...those boots look uncomfortable," he mumbled, possibly not loud enough for his lover to hear him. The phone rattled off the first set of directions and he moved to plug it into the center console, which brought a map up on the dashboard's screen. Fancy--and easier for Mujin to see. "Here, see, it says it should take an hour or so--are you hungry? We could always stop and get something," he leaned a bit closer to the screen above all the other buttons that he'd...googled once and figured he'd remember them sooner or later, then plopped back in his seat. Empty-ish roads were for the best, for now. Plus, it seemed like they wouldn't have to get on many bigger highways or anything--not this time, at least. They did have quite a few places to go to, after all.

---------

The drive, while new and exciting since it was a convertible and Mujin's...second-ish time driving, was definitely not his favorite part of what their trip had in store. Humans were idiots (even if they'd probably been speeding or doing something funky) and honked, making him flip them off, and thankfully not run into any road-rage besides his own. He got whiny and hungry after a while, and they decided to try the drive-thru thing. Why not? They were near the outskirts of the next town they were headed to, and they needed to get gas, anyway--even if it'd make more sense to park and go inside while getting gas, the idea of a 'drive-thru' sounded fun.

"Wendy's," he mused, motioning for the other to pull into the place, "Who is Wendy? She looks like a doll," the logo, that is. Ah well. "Mujin--there's a pole there--Mujin," He laughed despite himself (he should really be more fearful for their safety, he had a feeling) but they missed the pole, and into the drive-thru they went. Bah, English. "Baconator sounds like a robot."

judgement day || mulouthurster

It made sense that Mujin would be tired. The both of them were, but he couldn't imagine being alongside the King and Queen to make decisions in the court. He was truly thankful, albeit a bit pouty that he couldn't see the youngest before the trial. Ah well, hopefully it wouldn't be a very long trial...Deimos only had so much sanity-capacity.

Though, he was curious to hear what his 'parents' had to say about their treatment towards him.

Aster was nervous. Nervous for Mujin, nervous for Louis, especially. but just overall nervous. This had all come to light while he'd been gone--and the memories were kind of fuzzy, probably since Louis hadn't wanted to share them much. He felt like he should have known, should have sensed that things were worse than they seemed... Looking to Arthur, who had pulled him out of his slow spiral of guilt, he offered a smile and nodded. The kiss was nice, the nuzzle even nicer, making him chuckle a little as he set an arm behind the other on the top of the very-comfortable (and somewhat flashy) couch that they were sharing.

His fingers brushed absently through the imaginary's hair until he, too, spotted Louis, wanting to give him a look at wandering out of his quarters...but he wasn't surprised, honestly. When Arthur floated over to him, he decided to stay seated, watching them with a concerned yet hopefully reassuring expression and half-smile.

The maids caught up to him again and herded him towards his other two boyfriends, grumbling more about not being able to explore as he pleased--but he was relieved to have a little company before they went in, sooner rather than later at this point.

"He's not," Aster called out quietly, amusement in his tone. Deimos shrugged. Since when could anyone stop him from doing things he wasn't supposed to be doing? The maids, apparently, but only to an extent. But even the light touch was comforting in the moment, his shoulders tense and his arms and hands fidgeted, not sure what to do with them. So, he crossed them behind himself, not wanting to in front to look extra distressed. "Fine," not fine, but not too far from it. The outcome of this trial was something he pretty much knew already, but the in-between and unknown bothered him. "Sick," he admitted, quieter, though Aster could still hear him if he listened closely. Damn Arthur for being able to get him to open up without much effort. "But I'll be fine," reaching out to finally take hold of one of the other's hands, holding it with both of his own, now messing with the imaginary's fingers rather than his own.

Half-glancing over his shoulder when one of the maids warned them that they'd need to go to the court in a few minutes, he sighed and Aster got to his feet, stepping up to rub a hand over the small of Louis' back. "We'll be there with you, don't worry. Plus, Mujin is watching out for you--and his parents. They can't hurt you now."

what may lurk within || belle & louis

Aster was relieved when they all seemed to be okay and, for now, getting along. Still he had a weird feeling about things as well...maybe it was the embarrassment of the little crush he had and if it was obvious to anyone else (god he hoped not). He'd never heard the end of it if it was obvious, so many hurt feelings too, even if it wasn't anything to bat an eye at.

Deciding they'd all get some soothing tea this time, he pulled out the cream and sugar as well, mostly knowing what everyone preferred. Glancing over to Arthur and Louis, he studied their expressions before the imaginary pulled Louis away to go sit and socialize. He didn't want to shoo Belle out, so...he'd let them talk for a bit before walking her home.

Louis looked rather dejected when Arthur didn't sit with him, and Mujin was over there, too--not that he didn't love Aster, but he was grumpy, okay? He'd mumbled a thanks to Arthur before being sat down in his time-out zone of sorts, watching the other three curiously as they spoke.

Sure, he could see how Belle could be cute--she did have nice legs, but he himself and Mujin were the gayest of gays, and just because Arthur and Aster may not be as gay didn't mean anything. He'd play nice, but no, he would never go to the nurse again. He jumped a little when he felt a blanket wrap around his bare shoulders, looking up to see Aster, tray in hand, offering him a smile. Boo. It was so hard to stay irritated at him.

The oldest set the tray on the coffee table, but handed everyone their specific drinks, having laid out cream and sugar as well for anyone who wanted it more customized, but it was mostly for Belle in case she wanted either--the rest he'd already put in the amounts that he remembered for his boyfriends. Taking his seat beside Louis, who was slightly slouched in his spot, Aster set a hand against his thigh and patted it affectionately.

Belle seemed to do well with Mujin, seeing that grin he'd given at the compliment. Louis mumbled something about not being that heartless as to leave the nagini-hybrid out there with that monster. "I hope you don't go running into that forest anymore for crying," he scoffed a little, but ended up leaning onto Aster's shoulder, holding his mug with both hands. He hadn't realized how cold it had been outside, or even inside, happy for the blanket and his boyfriend's warmth.

The bounty hunter sighed and relaxed a little, reaching up to wrap an arm around Louis' shoulders instead, rubbing his bicep to warm him. "Did you want a blanket? I'm sorry, I should have asked," but he'd just thought about Louis' bare shoulders more than anything. "Mujin is very pretty," he agreed, smiling at the youngest with affection written all over his expression, "She's seen a picture of all of you--she guessed a lot about you all when she saw, Miss Belle is good with others. I believe you will do well as a nurse here," he shifted a little and leaned down to put his mug down, wrapping the blanket around the grumpy major a little more, "You mentioned magazines they may like, right?" A bit of small talk wouldn't hurt anyone. He was much more nervous than he should be, he had a feeling.

"Miss Belle, when you're ready I will walk you home. I have a spare jacket you can borrow, it's pretty cold out," he paused, "You should visit Arthur at the boba place sometime, if you like sweets and more. Maybe we can all go together sometime." Louis sighed a bit at the small talk, honestly wanting to lay down after everything. He should probably also rinse off in the shower, feeling sweaty and gross from how much running they'd done.

After a few more moments, and most of his tea gone already, he slowly got up from his spot, touching Aster's shoulder gently when he got a worried look, "Sorry, I'm going to lie down now. I'm glad you're safe, stick to inside the magical barrier from now on, though," he sounded like he was teasing, a bit more relaxed but obviously drained. "Mu, is it okay if I lay in your bed a while?" He could just go to his own room, but that was no fun. he planned to shower off once the nurse had left, anyway.

Cheetah { Mumos }

Honestly, he forgot at times that Arthur would end up knowing everything that they ended up doing. The 'shared memories and thoughts' thing was just an odd concept to him, especially since Arthur didn't burst in randomly to stop some of their shenanigans. Disapproving, sure, but didn't normally stop them.

Then again, they were kinda good at not thinking too far ahead when it came to spontaneous outings such as this.

It had kind of come from a derailed night of watching random documentaries of serial killers, convicts, this that an the other. Why that had gone to 'we should go to america' to 'we should go driving' to 'we should go to america, drive around and bring guns' he had no idea, but hell. Challenged Deimos enough to make said guns, which he'd been quite proud of once they tested them for the first time (much to Aster's dismay). He'd even made sure there was less kick-back so they didn't end up hurting themselves (he was mostly worried about Mujin, honestly) and they were pretty quiet to boot. Lord knows they didn't need super-loud guns if they decided to do anything more than protect themselves from anyone who messed with them. Not like they wouldn't be able to without guns--but he'd been shot before, it didn't feel great, and he heard that America was crawling with crazy humans with guns.

But obviously they, being a much more intelligent race and much hardier (ish) meant that they could perfectly protect themselves after shooting a few times. Made so much sense.

The motel was much nicer in comparison with the one that they'd ended up at in Seoul after Mujin had nearly been murdered--then again, he hadn't been overly fond of the situation in general, especially being blinded and the both of them killing an assassin and just..insanity. How did they get into these situations?

Louis was resting against his lover's back with an arm tossed over his waist as the sun began to rise, not really expecting to get up too early, which showed by his groan of dismay when the minor began to roll around and kissed him, which meant 'time to go get up' in Cicero-ese. The beach had been fun, though, despite the sand. Rolling onto his stomach once the other had unwedged himself out from under Louis' barely-determined attempts to keep him in bed. He laid there until he heard the shower shut off, realizing he could have taken advantage and showered with him, but Deimos wasn't really a morning person.

Crawling out of bed himself, he dug around in their large shared bag for some clothing to change into. Despite not being a morning person, it was always nice to be greeted in such a way by his lover (normally it was Deimos getting up first--Mujin was even less of a wake-up type than he was. So grumpy for being so tiny). Kissing his cheek as he headed into the bathroom to shower, he kept the door open to listen to the other speak. "Renting would be a good idea," even if it might be fun to steal a car, they'd probably not get away with that for too terribly long, so, renting legally it is.

Snorting audibly when the youngest mentioned 'driving around a parking lot once', he realized he probably should have prepared more for this. It couldn't be too hard though, right? "I think we've been in taxis enough that we can figure it out," he didn't seem very difficult. While thinking it over he finished up his shower and stepped out, rubbing his hair down with a towel before focusing on the virgo, "As long as we dont hit anything or anyone for a little while we're good," didn't want the vacation of sorts to end too quickly, right?

Pulling on a pair of shorts and a tighter-fitted black tanktop, he rubbed his face to get the last bit of sleepiness out of him, and began to brush his teeth, stepping up to the other to tug a little at the hair the poor man had just finished fixing. Smirking, they finished getting read and were out of the motel well before the check-out time.

Renting a car wasn't nearly as difficult as he'd thought it would be--he'd asked Ethirdil if he knew of anywhere to get a fake US ID, got them each one, and put a bogus address on it for safe measure. Louis found it funny that Mujin was too young to rent a car in the states, thankfully he himself was old enough--he hadn't even thought about age being a restriction. Silly humans.

Not wasting the opportunity he went for a nicer car, not minding the cost, plus a car with a top that could fold down sounded fancy. It was when they were given the keys and shown where to get the car that he handed them over to Mujin, figuring they could put the top down a few blocks down so the dealership didn't notice it was the baby driving.

judgement day || mulouthurster

It has been a long time coming when it came to facing his parents down for the abuse they had dished out to him since childhood.

At first he hadn't wanted to go--he'd wanted justice to hit them hard and fast, and for whatever reason he felt he might get in the way of that if he went to the trials. But after speaking to his boyfriends he'd decided it would be much better to face them down one last time, to see their faces when they finally got the punishments they deserved, than to be left wondering for the rest of his life if he'd made a good call or not.

So, here he was, getting helped into nicer clothing by the maids--or, well, being fussed over by the maids while he tried to escape them to dress himself. Deimos would have griped about it had it been for any other circumstances, and he caved in once he'd been told the Queen and Mujin had taken time to figure out the best type of clothing, colors and whatnot to give him.

It was odd to be wearing the symbol of a magpie as well. The Queen had insisted, which...felt nice. To be accepted by Cicero's parents in such a way that, without being a major that was a knight there, he'd be able to wear the crest at all. If he hadn't locked himself down so harshly that day emotion-wise he would have been much more choked up about it.

The maids finally let him be as he pulled his hair back into a small ponytail, not realizing just how long it had grown out. Not that he minded, and the other three seemed to like it, so eh. He stared at the mirror for a long moment once he'd finished, not dressed in robes similar to Mujin, but in light pants and a longer, robe-like shirt, given an overshirt as well which had the emblem of the magpie on it. It didn't look bad, but admittedly he'd been tempted to ask about the armor, even if he wasn't a knight. But again, he didn't whine--too important of a day to throw a fit over clothing.

Stepping out of his given room that he'd gotten ready in, Deimos half wondered if he could find Mujin before everything. He wouldn't be too close to him during the said trials since the royals would be in a different area, but he had Aster and Arthur there to keep him company, front and center. Who knew how long all of this would take--it wasn't like those true crime shows in the human world. No lawyers or anything, though he was asked to speak about what his parents had done to him his entire life, along with Mujin and possibly Arthur saying something about the day that got them arrested in the first place. Aster remembered times of the past where bruises, yelling and other such things had gone down, but unless they absolutely needed him to say anything (or if he chose to speak up against the abusers) he more than likely would just be there as emotional support.

Anyway, it was a bit until everything began, so he took to wandering around to see if he could find the others, figuring he could ask for help from a maid or something if needed. For now, he was somewhat content with just wandering aimlessly, taking in the palace and getting to actually look now, without being half-dead from painkillers and stitches.

@cicero-ia

butterfly effect || louthur AU

The tears continued to fall despite not being sad--he wasn't sad about his father dying, and he wasn't sad about leaving that village behind. Maybe it was fear; the unknown was scary, even if he'd planned to run away to it for months now, if not years. Maybe it was a mix of relief and unshed tears from the years of agony he'd gone through. He wouldn't admit out loud just how much it had fucked him up, but then again, Huimang didn't near to hear it out loud, did he?

Oddly enough he didn't feel much of the cold. He wondered if that was because he believed his imaginary friend was warm and safe. Even if the man couldn't protect him from everything, he felt like he could in that moment. They were far from being fully away from danger, but that didn't matter to Deimos in that very moment. That, and he had no idea that the other could calm him through the link they shared...that was useful.

It didn't take long for the major to pass out, his head against the other's shoulder, hidden with the warm fur-lined hood he'd pulled up. What time had it even been at that point? It felt both like an eternity but also a split second before he was woken up by the imaginary major, hearing the dogs and yells now as well. Without complaint he moved to get up, taking hold of the other's hand to help him up as well. Grabbing his bag to fish out the compass, still a little bleary and foggy in a way, he realized he really didn't need the compass to figure out which way was south. But, he had it out just in case.

Everything still felt like a dream, but he knew better. He tugged at the other to begin to lead him south, tucking the tool away in his pocket for now. The dogs and villagers still sounded pretty far off, but he was still concerned about being seen or just...caught in general. Deimos had no idea what the punishment was for murder; had that even happened in their small village since he'd been born? He had no idea.

--- --- ---

The major was relieved in a way when the sun started to rise. That meant this bitter cold might give in a little, and they hadn't heard the sound of the villagers for well over an hour now.

They'd stayed relatively quiet--even as the fear of being caught that morning began to let up. Deimos just wasn't sure of what to say. What kind of conversation does one have after such insanity had erupted in their lives? The silence wasn't exactly uncomfortable with Huimang, though. He just felt like he needed to say something, but he was sure the other could hear his muddled thoughts contemplating what to say, anyway. That power would make for odd moments in the future, he had a feeling...

"Are you okay?" He had to ask. The major was pretty sure murder wasn't a usual thing for imaginary friends to do, so...

butterfly effect || louthur AU

It all felt surreal--like nothing had happened, but everything at the same time. All he knew was they needed to get away from the small mountain village and either find these 'safe houses' that he'd heard rumors of from passing travelers, or to get far enough away from this village where word of this happening wouldn't reach.

All he knew was that he was safe with Huimang, and his father wouldn't be there to hurt him again. Ever.

This was oddly calming to him, despite just seeing his imaginary friend murder the older major--Thoughts for later.

His mind was so rushed and racing that it was no surprise that Huimang couldn't make sense of the layout around the area. It wasn't as if he made his way into the woods often, anyway. Yes, rumors of danger and trouble were common, but he'd just been forbidden to go too far from his parents' watchful gaze, even if they weren't right there all the time.

Nodding slightly when the other began to pull him to--somewhere, he followed close behind, for whatever reason no longer feeling fear. Maybe this was just part of his twisted, abused mind finally taking over fully. As long as the other was with him, he felt safe, and knew they'd find somewhere to go...

Even as they moved deeper into the forest, his thoughts hadn't quite cleared up. Just mush it felt like; maybe he just didn't want to think of certain things at that moment. When they had time to decompress and not worry about being found or chased, then maybe he'd ask questions--not that he had any at that moment anyway.

Another nod was given when Huimang said they couldn't build a fire, knowing that they'd probably have a search party out by morning. Deimos had no idea how his mother would react to all of this--be it calling them both murderers, or think her son was 'kidnapped' by a killer, or that she'd be glad to be rid of him...but he had no idea how she'd react to her husband being dead.

Finally having a moment to pull on the thicker jacket, he was just happy to not have the wind cutting through them. It wasn't nearly as cold with the wind being taken out of the situation. The young major easily moved down to press close to the other; his protector, despite being such a gentle man before he was put into danger. Was this normal for imaginary friends to do? He had no idea. Slipping off his backpack, he set it into the crook where the cliff of sorts met the ground, a few boulders being placed well enough to also hide them if needed, especially with the little lights appearing. That, and Deimos has a dull glow to him, which he hadn't yet realized.

Shifting enough to sit sideways on the other's lap, making it easier to see him as well as keep close, he buttoned his jacket absently. Another nod, but he spoke up this time, "I'm good," he murmured, breath a rush of white as he spoke. Odd, he didn't feel cold. If anything he felt warm and safe; maybe it was his mind playing tricks on him? Finally he was able to meet the other's eyes, noting the color returning to him where it had gone black before. So many emotions ran through him, but his breathing had settled and his heartbeat was only slightly elevated. "You saved me," he repeated from before, but with less confusion in his tone. Lifting one of his hands, he touched the man's cheek, as if questioning if all of this was real and he was the one dead. But no, this was reality; no dream and no afterlife.

Was there an appropriate response to all of this? Deimos had no idea. But there was certainly an inappropriate one; and that was Deimos leaning closer to press a kiss to his imaginary major's lips, wrapping his arms around the man's shoulders to just...hold him. To be close.

The kiss was fleeting but warm, breaking the chaste touch, but not pulling too far away. His mind finally focused, having someone to focus on...And it was all a little overwhelming, his love and gratefulness to the other clear both on his face and in his thought. Despite this, his eyes glazed over and Deimos pulled back a little further, one hand sliding down to the other's shoulder, while he pressed his forearm (and in turn soft material of his jacket) over his eyes. As if he could hide tears from someone who could read his every thought.

The tears didn't stem from the kiss, but other things he was sure Huimang would pick up on. It had felt like he'd never felt safe or protected, this was new. "Sorry," the apology was whispered, his breath hitching slightly. He was sorry for the tears, not the kiss.

And no matter how much he tried to talk himself down, the tears came anyway. Odd, to have tears of gratitude and affection after seeing the death of his father.

cicero-ia​:

KINGDOM - Coup D'Etat (Louis Focus)

Immortal king of beauty is here!!

Stan Kingdom and keep streaming Coup D'Etat!

butterfly effect || louthur AU

Deimos was beginning to panic, his arm twisted in a way that made his shoulder crack and ache, but it was that sharp blade so close to his palm and fingers that had him horrified--but things changed quickly, just before the blade could even touch him in fact. He saw Huimang move in his peripheral vision, but when he came into sight he wanted to yell for him to disappear--to not get hurt. Could...Huimang be hurt, technically? He had no idea, but tears felt over his cheeks, his voice not having time to yell out for the other to hide...

What followed felt surreal, his imaginary friend's hand grabbing hold of the actual blade, making his stomach churn in anxiety and pain and--pink? A spark of confusion crossed his thoughts, but it was forgotten the moment the imaginary moved so quickly to his father once again.

That sickening crack was so loud in his ears, his thoughts... the hand gripping his wrist went slack and the crazed major hit the floor with a loud thud. He wasn't moving, and what had just played out in front of him didn't quite compute just yet. Huimang looked different...his hair dark, his eyes nearly invisible from this angle. Deimos dropped his own blade and held onto his throbbing shoulder with his opposite hand, trembling slightly as he got to his knees, having caught himself with the hand his father had a hold of just seconds ago. Even his imaginary's clothing changed...it was all finally running through his mind now. It was clicking, what had just happened, what Huimang had done.

Meeting the other's eyes finally, he could see the silver, though it didn't stand out as much as his 'natural' eyes had. Seeing that hatred, the anger that was reflected in those silver eyes...it was his own hatred, his own anger. It felt familiar, yet so foreign, seeing it in his savior's eyes instead of within his own thoughts. His own mismatched eyes focused down to his father who was...dead.

He was dead.

An odd feeling of relief flooded over him, but then a new panic...his mother was coming up the stairs and--what the fuck were they going to do? Quickly he stood, unsteady and stumbling a little, but he grabbed the bag from the bed that he'd packed up and swung it over his shoulder, hooking his other arm through the opposite strap to free up both of his hands. One took hold of Huimang's arm, tugging him towards the door to block his mother from getting in.

Yes, he'd thought about jumping out the damn window, but instead he clicked the lock on his door and pulled the imaginary with him out the door and slammed the said door shut before his mother could get inside. She looked just as horrified as he had before, but now a panicked confusion crossed her expression. Deimos said nothing, moving past her with just a glance so they could quickly descend the stairs while his mother tried to open his bedroom door, which was locked and would be difficult to get into without her hunting for a key. She was yelling now--for her husband, for Deimos, her voice a mixture of anger and fear. He grabbed his bigger jacket from the closet, then pulled them both out the door and into the frigid cold night. Thank god Huimang had prepared him for something to go wrong, because lord knows he would have ended up out the window without shoes or a jacket...at least he'd had time to get the bigger one, because it was freezing outside.

Not that he had time just yet to put it on, and he wanted to push it onto the imaginary major, but he remembered how he'd made clothing change before...they just needed to get away from the house. She'd get into his room sooner or later, and he didn't want to be there to hear or see how she'd respond. His own future sight wasn't helping much at all at this point, scrambled and blurry images crossing his mind's eye while he lead them towards the opposite side of town, where there was a trail leading away from the village. Deimos didn't stop. Not to ask questions, not to check on the other, not to check on himself, even...

But once they got further away, further into the darkness, he had to slow down, the frigid air filling his lungs and making it hard to breathe with how quickly they'd fled the house. Stopping in the middle of the empty road, nearly to the edge of the village where he knew they'd need to go, he all but gasped for air, the cold freezing his lungs and making his chest tighten. Deimos had never let go of the other's arm, not until now. But it was only so he could turn to face the other, not even hesitating as he wrapped his arms around the man's shoulders, hiding his face into his warm neck while he fought to catch his breath and really take in what had just happened.

"Thank you," he managed the quiet words between breaths, holding onto Huimang a little tighter after he spoke, "You saved me.."

butterfly effect || louthur AU

Deimos was beginning to panic, his arm twisted in a way that made his shoulder crack and ache, but it was that sharp blade so close to his palm and fingers that had him horrified--but things changed quickly, just before the blade could even touch him in fact. He saw Huimang move in his peripheral vision, but when he came into sight he wanted to yell for him to disappear--to not get hurt. Could...Huimang be hurt, technically? He had no idea, but tears felt over his cheeks, his voice not having time to yell out for the other to hide...

What followed felt surreal, his imaginary friend's hand grabbing hold of the actual blade, making his stomach churn in anxiety and pain and--pink? A spark of confusion crossed his thoughts, but it was forgotten the moment the imaginary moved so quickly to his father once again.

That sickening crack was so loud in his ears, his thoughts... the hand gripping his wrist went slack and the crazed major hit the floor with a loud thud. He wasn't moving, and what had just played out in front of him didn't quite compute just yet. Huimang looked different...his hair dark, his eyes nearly invisible from this angle. Deimos dropped his own blade and held onto his throbbing shoulder with his opposite hand, trembling slightly as he got to his knees, having caught himself with the hand his father had a hold of just seconds ago. Even his imaginary's clothing changed...it was all finally running through his mind now. It was clicking, what had just happened, what Huimang had done.

Meeting the other's eyes finally, he could see the silver, though it didn't stand out as much as his 'natural' eyes had. Seeing that hatred, the anger that was reflected in those silver eyes...it was his own hatred, his own anger. It felt familiar, yet so foreign, seeing it in his savior's eyes instead of within his own thoughts. His own mismatched eyes focused down to his father who was...dead.

He was dead.

An odd feeling of relief flooded over him, but then a new panic...his mother was coming up the stairs and--what the fuck were they going to do? Quickly he stood, unsteady and stumbling a little, but he grabbed the bag from the bed that he'd packed up and swung it over his shoulder, hooking his other arm through the opposite strap to free up both of his hands. One took hold of Huimang's arm, tugging him towards the door to block his mother from getting in.

Yes, he'd thought about jumping out the damn window, but instead he clicked the lock on his door and pulled the imaginary with him out the door and slammed the said door shut before his mother could get inside. She looked just as horrified as he had before, but now a panicked confusion crossed her expression. Deimos said nothing, moving past her with just a glance so they could quickly descend the stairs while his mother tried to open his bedroom door, which was locked and would be difficult to get into without her hunting for a key. She was yelling now--for her husband, for Deimos, her voice a mixture of anger and fear. He grabbed his bigger jacket from the closet, then pulled them both out the door and into the frigid cold night. Thank god Huimang had prepared him for something to go wrong, because lord knows he would have ended up out the window without shoes or a jacket...at least he'd had time to get the bigger one, because it was freezing outside.

Not that he had time just yet to put it on, and he wanted to push it onto the imaginary major, but he remembered how he'd made clothing change before...they just needed to get away from the house. She'd get into his room sooner or later, and he didn't want to be there to hear or see how she'd respond. His own future sight wasn't helping much at all at this point, scrambled and blurry images crossing his mind's eye while he lead them towards the opposite side of town, where there was a trail leading away from the village. Deimos didn't stop. Not to ask questions, not to check on the other, not to check on himself, even...

But once they got further away, further into the darkness, he had to slow down, the frigid air filling his lungs and making it hard to breathe with how quickly they'd fled the house. Stopping in the middle of the empty road, nearly to the edge of the village where he knew they'd need to go, he all but gasped for air, the cold freezing his lungs and making his chest tighten. Deimos had never let go of the other's arm, not until now. But it was only so he could turn to face the other, not even hesitating as he wrapped his arms around the man's shoulders, hiding his face into his warm neck while he fought to catch his breath and really take in what had just happened.

"Thank you," he managed the quiet words between breaths, holding onto Huimang a little tighter after he spoke, "You saved me.."

what may lurk within || belle & louis

Aster just seemed concerned, though was thankful to his minor, watching him as he worked, leaning against the counter off to the side of the two. Looking up to her when she spoke, he offered a smile and shook his head quickly, Don't be sorry, it's okay. Louis gets hurt all the time, so Mujin has a lot of practice--right, love? Again, Aster looked down to his lover, nervous and sensing that there was some...tension? In the room. Or, rather, apartment. But, he didn't say anything, not wanting to set anyone off, and also not wanting to make Belle feel even more awkward that she probably did in that moment.

Reaching down, the major touched his virgo's hair, brushing some of his curly bangs to one side since they'd shifted while he worked. You're not imposing, I am glad Louis brought you here instead of making you fix your own wounds--or just left you somewhere else, he sighed, looking out the door of the bathroom for a moment to the other two. Deimos seemed calmer now, thankfully, but their glances told him their conversation wasn't just about getting wounds cleaned up.

Louis snorted a little at the nurse being called 'helpless', "She's quick though, that's for sure," he mumbled, "Too soft of a heart to go into the woods rescuing people," his glance back had caught Aster's gaze, to which he got a small, concerned smile before the major was focused back on Mujin and Belle. "Luna knows she would have been half digested by now...you should have seen this thing, it was insane. Had this goopy-sticky shit that looked like it engulfed you and digested you without a stomach. Never seen anything like it," probably not very comforting to the imaginary, but, oh well. Louis didn't make it a habit to go exploring in the woods, anyway.

The tugs at his shirt made him stick his tongue out a little, shifting to carefully pull the (probably now destroyed) shirt up and over his head and shoulders, leaving him in his white tanktop. Surprisingly, it was clean of blood--color him surprised. Now with the gash out in the open, he wrinkled his nose a little, allowing Arthur to drag him around as he pleased. The cut hurt, but not too badly. "Hmm, nurse, then she wasn't exaggerating," he'd half thought she was being a smartass when she mentioned nursing or whatever had come out of her mouth before. Goody, so they did work together...

"What? I know," he replied to the mention of Aster having friends, and it being good for him, even if he was a little pouty about the blush on Aster's cheeks (and now Arthur's) as he turned on the sink so he could wash off the blood and the wound. "Yeah, yeah, I don't like Mujin's tall and broad friends either, you know," Deimos mumbled, leaning closer to press a kiss against Arthur's cheek affectionately. His. Well, theirs, but still. Either way, the major trusted Aster and knew better than to think he would cheat or something. "Ow," he deadpanned, the warm water rushing over the wound, which made him huff. "I'll need stitches, huh?"

Aster had stepped away for a moment, leaving the bathroom to start some tea for everyone. It was getting cold out--not at the space station, he supposed, but still--and Belle seemed...cold. That would be his excuse, at least. The eldest focused on the two at the sink, looking down to the cut on Deimos' arm with concern, I'll start tea and get some supplies, he mumbled, getting some water when the middle-meteor-child turned the faucet so he could fill the kettle. Louis was being good and didn't have a look of jealousy or disdain on his face, which made Aster smile and press a kiss to his shoulder while Arthur worked on the wound.

Kettle now heating, he went back to the first aid kid to get some gauze and the needle and surgical thread they'd need to patch up Louis. Setting the supplies beside the two on the counter, along with some ointment he'd grabbed from his drawer, he went back to setting out some mugs for everyone. Miss Belle--did you want cream or sugar in your tea? Do you have a type of tea you want? Or coffee..? Stress, stress.

what may lurk within || belle & louis

Aster just seemed concerned, though was thankful to his minor, watching him as he worked, leaning against the counter off to the side of the two. Looking up to her when she spoke, he offered a smile and shook his head quickly, Don't be sorry, it's okay. Louis gets hurt all the time, so Mujin has a lot of practice--right, love? Again, Aster looked down to his lover, nervous and sensing that there was some...tension? In the room. Or, rather, apartment. But, he didn't say anything, not wanting to set anyone off, and also not wanting to make Belle feel even more awkward that she probably did in that moment.

Reaching down, the major touched his virgo's hair, brushing some of his curly bangs to one side since they'd shifted while he worked. You're not imposing, I am glad Louis brought you here instead of making you fix your own wounds--or just left you somewhere else, he sighed, looking out the door of the bathroom for a moment to the other two. Deimos seemed calmer now, thankfully, but their glances told him their conversation wasn't just about getting wounds cleaned up.

Louis snorted a little at the nurse being called 'helpless', "She's quick though, that's for sure," he mumbled, "Too soft of a heart to go into the woods rescuing people," his glance back had caught Aster's gaze, to which he got a small, concerned smile before the major was focused back on Mujin and Belle. "Luna knows she would have been half digested by now...you should have seen this thing, it was insane. Had this goopy-sticky shit that looked like it engulfed you and digested you without a stomach. Never seen anything like it," probably not very comforting to the imaginary, but, oh well. Louis didn't make it a habit to go exploring in the woods, anyway.

The tugs at his shirt made him stick his tongue out a little, shifting to carefully pull the (probably now destroyed) shirt up and over his head and shoulders, leaving him in his white tanktop. Surprisingly, it was clean of blood--color him surprised. Now with the gash out in the open, he wrinkled his nose a little, allowing Arthur to drag him around as he pleased. The cut hurt, but not too badly. "Hmm, nurse, then she wasn't exaggerating," he'd half thought she was being a smartass when she mentioned nursing or whatever had come out of her mouth before. Goody, so they did work together...

"What? I know," he replied to the mention of Aster having friends, and it being good for him, even if he was a little pouty about the blush on Aster's cheeks (and now Arthur's) as he turned on the sink so he could wash off the blood and the wound. "Yeah, yeah, I don't like Mujin's tall and broad friends either, you know," Deimos mumbled, leaning closer to press a kiss against Arthur's cheek affectionately. His. Well, theirs, but still. Either way, the major trusted Aster and knew better than to think he would cheat or something. "Ow," he deadpanned, the warm water rushing over the wound, which made him huff. "I'll need stitches, huh?"

Aster had stepped away for a moment, leaving the bathroom to start some tea for everyone. It was getting cold out--not at the space station, he supposed, but still--and Belle seemed...cold. That would be his excuse, at least. The eldest focused on the two at the sink, looking down to the cut on Deimos' arm with concern, I'll start tea and get some supplies, he mumbled, getting some water when the middle-meteor-child turned the faucet so he could fill the kettle. Louis was being good and didn't have a look of jealousy or disdain on his face, which made Aster smile and press a kiss to his shoulder while Arthur worked on the wound.

Kettle now heating, he went back to the first aid kid to get some gauze and the needle and surgical thread they'd need to patch up Louis. Setting the supplies beside the two on the counter, along with some ointment he'd grabbed from his drawer, he went back to setting out some mugs for everyone. Miss Belle--did you want cream or sugar in your tea? Do you have a type of tea you want? Or coffee..? Stress, stress.