some silly skit about things

Hi again. I have returned with another skit post. 

I’m trying to be silly this time but continuing the theme of using my characters to call me out. I’ve been thinking about all this a lot these last few days. Help, I’m… 

Also, like, dang. I keep doing that. Why can’t I stop? *glances at the previous post* 

Every time. I throw in some heavy content. Goddamnit. 

Thoughts.. shh shh shh. Shut up omg. 

I don’t know. Something is wrong with me. I have issues. </3

Anyway, it’s skit time! hehe~ 

Strong language. That should be the only warning. Wait, add mentions of alcohol and smoking. Now that’s it. 

——————————

[Continuing the skit with Ryen and Red, this skit is starting less than an hour after the end of that one. Ryen is walking down the hallway to his apartment. He is tired and wants to take a nap. Then he hears a guy’s voice from behind a corner.]

Guy’s voice: No need to be so hard on Shan. 

Ryen: *groans, turns around to face the direction of the voice, sighs* What are you even doing here, Brock? 

Brock: Hello to you too, Ry Ry. 

Ryen: *scratches his head* I told you to not call me that. 

Brock: Okay, Rye Bread. 

Ryen: *looks so disappointed and tired* What do you want? I’m tired and want to take a nap.

Brock: Why is everyone so disappointed whenever I show up? Everyone here is so mean. *pauses* Oh, that reminds me—

Ryen: *interrupts* No, seriously. What are you even doing here? You’re just a random skit character whose existence doesn’t really matter. You just exist to make the skits funny.. at least that’s what Shan claims. 

Brock: Did you just say my existence doesn’t matter? Wow, you’re so rude. 

Ryen: *sighs* Look, Brock, I’m tired. Go find someone else to annoy. 

Brock: *stretches his arms and legs* Just so you know, it’s not set in stone that I won’t ever be a character in the story canon. Maybe I’ll be a story character just like you. Will I be valid then? 

Ryen: You? In the stories? Don’t make me laugh, Brock. And with that name—

Brock: Hey, maybe Shan will change my name. Besides, Brock is a nickname. 

Ryen: A nickname? Really? Then what’s your real name? 

Brock: Uh.. Shan forgot. *fidgets* 

Ryen: *in a sarcastic tone* Wow, who would’ve thought. 

Brock: What’s that supposed to mean?

Ryen: Shan only cares about two characters: Jack and Fierdan. Shan doesn’t prioritize literally anything else about story content. It really does frustrate me. 

Brock: You don’t have to be so hard on Shan, y’know? There are probably reasons why—

Ryen: At this point, I really don’t care. 

Brock: You don’t have to be so mean. Shan is doing their best. 

Ryen: *frowns* No, they’re not and they know that. *sighs* Shan is like Fierdan in that they just do nothing all day. 

Brock: Oh yeah, thanks for the reminder! I was gonna ask you where Danny boy is? I have a bone to pick with that guy. 

Ryen: How would I know? I don’t keep tabs on him. 

Brock: Damn, alright, so you don’t know where he is? 

Ryen: No. *mutters under his breath* Why do I feel like everyone uses me to get to my brother? I’m my own person and not everything has to involve him. I’m so tired of this shit. 

Brock: Sorry, I’ll just ask somewhere else. Hope you have a good rest, Ry.

Ryen: *doesn’t reply, just walks away to his apartment door, takes out his key and unlocks and opens the door, and enters* 

Brock: Well, I better be on my way. 

[A short time later. Brock encounters Jack walking somewhere. So specific, I know.] 

Brock: *points his finger* Hey, you. 

Jack: *takes out an earbud* Huh? Who’s there? 

Brock: *walks until he’s in front of Jack* It’s me. *puts his hands on his hips* 

Jack: Oh, uh.. you’re.. you’re that guy. From way back when. Uh… *looks confused*

Brock: My replacement doesn’t even remember me! My life truly is a tragedy! 

Jack: Uh.. hold on. *takes out his phone, pauses the song playing on his music playlist, takes out his other earbud, stuffs his earbuds and phone into the pocket on his hoodie* I’m Jack and you are.. hmm.. *scratches chin* I can’t remember. 

Brock: *frowns* I’m Brock. Don’t you forget it!

Jack: Uh.. okay. 

Brock: You replaced me as comic relief. I was the first one to be the dumb and silly guy to make situations less dark and heavy. 

Jack: Are you calling me dumb and silly? Sorry, I’m not following. 

Brock: I’m the clown in the skits, not you. 

Jack: So you admit that you’re a clown? Because I’m not. 

Brock: Ugh, shut up. I have a bone to pick with—

Jack: *arches eyebrow* Who still says that? “I have a bone to pick with you.” 

Brock: No, not you! I mean, I’m upset that you don’t remember me and how you are my replacement, but—

Jack: *sighs* I don’t have time for this. I’m trying to find—

Brock: Fierdan? 

Jack: Huh? Uh, yeah. Do you know where he is? 

Brock: I have a bone to pick with him. 

Jack: What’s with you and picking bones? 

Brock: I miss bantering with him. 

Jack: I don’t understand.

Brock: It must be sad to be out of the loop. 

Jack: Me? Out of the loop? 

Brock: Yes. I used to banter with Duke, and I miss him. From what I’ve heard, Fierdan became Duke, so he is the reason why Duke is gone. I need to give him a piece of my mind. How dare he take Duke away from me!

Jack: Uh.. what? Duke is Fierdan. 

Brock: *raises voice* Shut up, you! I mean Duke the individual, Duke the person. I want him back! 

Jack: Okay but why though. Do you not want Fierdan to be whole and complete? 

Brock: *groans* I don’t have time for this. *storms off* 

Jack: Huh. Well then. 

[Jack is about to take out his phone when suddenly Stella appears fidgeting with a cube.] 

Stella: Brock is still heartbroken since Duke left. I think they had a crush on each other. 

Jack: *takes his hands out of his hoodie pocket* Oh, hey Stella! How’s it going?

Stella: *tone flat* Fantastic. What’s up with you? 

Jack: Just.. Just looking for Fierdan. Have you seen him? 

Stella: *sighs* Why does everything have to be about him? Think of something better for once in your life, Shan. 

Jack: Sorry, geez. I’ll look for him myself. 

Stella: No, I’m sorry. I’m just frustrated because of this stupid cube. I want to throw and break it, but he’ll get mad at me. 

Jack: Who? Dylan? 

Stella: Yeah. He said this would be fun. *glares at the cube* It isn’t. 

Jack: Ah yeah, he’s good at solving them. 

Stella: He told me he could solve this in five minutes or less. *sighs* I’ve been working on this for the past hour! 

Jack: It took me a while to get the hang of it. I can try to solve it for you. 

Stella: No thanks, I’m fine on my own. I’ll solve this Rubik’s Cube eventually. At some point. Some day. *stares at the cube and throws it on the floor* 

Jack: I see, I see. Well, good luck with that. 

Stella: Thanks for the support. *crouches down and picks up the cube* 

[Some time later. Probably a half hour. Fierdan is walking and behind him, holding onto the bottom of his coat is Brock.] 

Jack: *looking at Fierdan* There you are! Where have you been all day? 

Brock: I found him, guys! He was doing some nerd shit. 

Fierdan: *sighs* Can someone get him off me? 

Brock: Do I not mean anything to you? 

Fierdan: Get off! *tries to yank his coat out of Brock’s grip* 

Brock: So mean. *sighs and lets go* I miss the old you. I miss how Fierdan used to be. I miss Duke. 

Fierdan: I don’t have time for this. 

Brock: Duke…

Fierdan: *verbally snaps* Shut up! Duke is gone! 

Stella: Someone is in a grumpy mood. Is someone sober for once? 

Fierdan: *turns to face Brock* Duke is a part of me. He became me. What can I do to satisfy you? I can’t bring him back. 

Brock: I’m sorry. *hands tremble* 

Jack: Think of it this way. Fierdan as he is now has the memories of both his own past and Duke’s. It’s not the end of the world.

Fierdan: And it’s a curse. Twice the trauma. Love that for me. 

Jack: *in a sympathetic tone* I know, I know… 

Fierdan: I’m sorry. It’s been a long day, and I didn’t have time to get a drink. 

Stella: Fierdan is sober and bitter? I definitely missed this.

Fierdan: I didn’t have time to drink. I’ve been busy. 

Stella: Doing what? And what’s up with the coat? 

Fierdan: Trying to figure shit out. Maybe my brother can be proud of me for once. 

Brock: Oh, he went to his apartment. Said something about wanting to take a nap. 

Fierdan: I don’t blame him. The work he does each day is exhausting. 

Jack: *looks surprised* Were you trying to find answers like Ryen? I had no idea you were also curious.

Fierdan: I have no idea how to find any answers. I kept scrolling through the volumes and couldn’t find anything that he and I don’t already know. Then I left the building and tried to find those marks. 

Stella: Wait, Shan hasn’t thought any of this through. Slow down! 

Fierdan: *rolls eyes* Ryen and I just want to solve this mystery. Dawn too, probably. We want answers. *starts taking off his coat* As for the coat, it’s winter. It’s cold out there. I spent a few hours walking outside. Then I came back to the library, and that’s where Brock found me. 

Brock: Yeah! He was reading this big fat book. What even was that? 

Stella: I thought Shan’s plans consisted of us being trapped in this giant vague building. I didn’t know we could just leave. 

Jack: Of course we can leave. Did you really think we could never go outside? 

Stella: For missions, yeah. But for other reasons? Isn’t it too dangerous?

Jack: We have to be careful, of course, but it’s unrealistic to say we can never go outside for any other reason. *looks at Fierdan* You were careful, right? Didn’t grab anyone’s attention? 

Fierdan: No. And besides, I went out to a club a number of times. You don’t seriously think I’m getting all my shit from inside this place, right? 

Brock: What shit? 

Jack: Alcohol and cigs. 

Fierdan: *nods* I didn’t go there or to any drug store today though. 

Stella: *frowns* Such a good influence. *rolls eyes* 

Fierdan: Shut up. 

Brock: Drugs aren’t cool, broski. 

Jack: *stares blankly at Brock* 

Fierdan: *frowns at Brock* Yeah, okay. 

Stella: Brock has a point actually. You shouldn’t rely on them. 

Fierdan: *frowns at Stella as well* Funny how you’re both talking to a former drug addict. As for me, I have some sense of self-control. I didn’t take anything all day. 

Stella: Wow, for a whole day? Can you manage it? 

Fierdan: Don’t shit on how I cope with all my shit.

Stella: It’s a shitty way to cope. 

Fierdan: *sighs* Why do you have to be such a pain in the ass? Let me live my life. 

Stella: Whatever. Bye. *walks away* 

Jack: Well, that was pretty harsh. I don’t want you to turn out like me or your brother. 

Fierdan: I know.. I know. *shakes head* Thinking about the Books of C. all day is getting to me. Why did she have to do all that shit? 

Brock: Ahem. Well, this is awkward. I’m still here. 

Jack: Oh, that’s right. You’re still here. 

Brock: *ignores Jack, nods* So.. the Books of C. Were you reading from one of those volumes? 

Fierdan: Yeah. Volume 3. 

Brock: I don’t understand, but that’s nice. 

Fierdan: Yeah, it’s nice that you don’t understand. Trying to read through it might break your brain. 

Brock: Huh? Why? *pauses* Are you calling me stupid? 

Fierdan: Actually no. C.’s writing is just so fucking dense and hard to comprehend. You have to reread lines over and over. *groans* Why did my shitty parents have to write so many books about the shit they thought and did? So many volumes that are illegible. I wish she could write like a normal, sane person, not like someone in the peak of a manic episode. 

Jack: Maybe I can help you figure out what she said? 

Fierdan: Oh please no. I can’t make you go through that. It’s just family shit that Ryen and I are trying to piece together. 

Brock: Ooh, family drama! 

Fierdan: Please, for the love of God, shut up. 

Brock: *gasps* You changed so much! I thought you hated God. 

Fierdan: *sighs* It’s an expression. *turns to Jack, facial expression softens* I can stop by your place, right? 

Jack: You practically live at my place. You know that, right?

Fierdan: Ah, true. The point still stands. 

Jack: *laughs* Of course. Want me to order dinner? 

Fierdan: Sure. Honestly, I feel like I could pass out any minute now. I’m so tired. 

Jack: So you don’t want to play some Mario Kart? 

Fierdan: *laughs* Maybe another time. Are you that eager to lose to me again? 

Jack: I let you win last time. 

Fierdan: Sure you did.

Jack: I did! 

Brock: Video games, huh? I wonder why Shan only shows boys playing video games. First it was with Ardere, and now it’s with you two. When will any girls be allowed to play? 

Jack: I’m pretty sure they’re allowed to play video games. 

Brock: Of course they should be allowed to. But do they play?

Jack: I don’t know, ask them. I bet Stella plays video games. 

Brock: Because she’s a tomboy? 

Fierdan: Since when is she a tomboy? 

Brock: Look, I don’t know. She’s not interested in romance ever since the disaster between her and Duke, and she doesn’t like girly-girl things, right? *stretches arms* She’s so different from Sparkle.. I mean Sabrina. 

Fierdan: *arches eyebrow* What does have to do with anything? 

Brock: I don’t know. I spent time around her and Dawn earlier. She kept asking Dawn questions, and she kept saying she doesn’t know. 

Fierdan: *frowns* Questions about what? 

Brock: *rubs the back of his neck* Well, it’s kinda awkward. 

Fierdan: Questions about what? Do I need to have a word with her? 

Brock: She just wanted to know about Dawn’s sexuality, the type of people she’s into, whether she has any crushes. 

Fierdan: Oh.. Oh uh. Okay. 

Brock: Know what’s also weird? People keep acting like I had a crush on Duke. Crazy, right? 

Jack: Wait, what? 

Fierdan: Yeah, that’s so crazy. Totally out of left field. 

Brock: Did Duke like me? *fiddles thumbs* I know we had something—

Fierdan: Fuck. I don’t remember what he thought of you back then. It’s been so long. 

Brock: Damn. That sucks. 

Fierdan: Also, like, I thought you were straight and were only interested in that cashier at that store. 

Brock: Yeah, we dated. Our relationship didn’t last long. 

Fierdan: Because you had a crush on me? 

Brock: No, on Duke. 

Fierdan: Wait, so you—

Brock: *face reddens and stutters* No. I.. I…

Jack: Well, I feel awkward. 

Brock: Like I said before, you are the replacement. 

Jack: Uh… 

Fierdan: *blushes* Let’s go, Jack. Brock is being weird as usual. 

Brock: *cries* As usual? I’m not that weird! You’re all so rude to me! 

[Jack and Fierdan ignore Brock and walk away from him.] 

Brock: *sounds disappointed* Wow. I see how it is. Just wow. 

—————————

I’m ending the skit part here. 

It’s pretty chaotic. I got distracted and lost my original train of thought. I’m also bored of writing this, so here is the ending. 

Brock is so silly. :3

That’s all. Until skit part # (some number, I lost count)…

~ Shan 

skit stories context update etc. (march 2023 version)

Hi, hi. I am so normal, totally normal, completely normal. (/lies)

A night or two ago, I decided to read over my last few skit story arcs. I haven’t read them over in a while actually. I missed doing that. 

And can I just say? I find it so convenient that I have the “skits” label on my posts that feature skits. Genuinely. I like how I did that. Good job, past me. That made things a lot easier. 

I reread these skit story arcs: Explain Yourself at the Help, I Have No Home / Take Me Home, Who Are You?, and Bathroom Discussion. 

I plan on discussing each of those skits (or at least each skit story overall) as well as the skits I wrote so far this month (March 2023) at some point in this post. It might be too much, so I wouldn’t be surprised if I made a part 2 to this post. 

But I first have to say that I will be swearing in this post. So yeah, strong language warning. 

… … … … … … … alright. 

First things first. I haven’t had motivation and inspiration to write a new skit story in such a long time. I like that I finally have a new one now (what I’ve been writing this month). Yes, it’s a new skit story. Sure, it’s messy, but that’s kinda the point. 

Before I dive deep into anything else, I just have to say this: Holy shit. I did not expect myself to get actual chills when reading those skit stories I mentioned earlier (not Bathroom Discussion as much but the other ones.. damn). I haven’t looked at any of these skits again until the other night. I forgot that I went there, went that far in my writing, with these skits. I can’t believe I got the chills reading them over. I can’t believe they still affect me strongly to this day. I really wrote those skits and came up with those stories, huh. That’s crazy. 

I probably sound egotistical, but I really do mean it. These skit stories, man, what the fuck. Like.. shit, man! I am so normal about my skits! So fucking normal! Ahhhhhh!!!!! 

*takes a break* //

… ok ok ok. 

Simple context for my skits in 2023: I’ve had lots of the content in these new skits planned out for a while. I’m not sure how long. However, I didn’t plan everything that happens in them. I can’t even say most; some of the stuff that grows into this whole big thing hasn’t been planned for that long. Stuff just happened. I won’t explain farther than that. 

Also, in these new skits, it happens after the events of the previous skit stories I mentioned. Most importantly the Who Are You? one. But in general terms, these new skits are supposed to take place during (are mainly inspired by) the plot in my vague idea of (book) story 2. And not just then but a lot into it, say the halfway point at the earliest. That might be pushing it. 

This is why in these new skits, I have to clarify some things: 1) Stella = Twinkle. Sabrina = Sparkle. Luna = Fauna. 2) Bathroom Discussion was also inspired by my plans for story 2, and the events that happen in that one happen in the beginning part of the story. These 2023 skits happen later on in story 2.

 3) As for my characters referring to me and calling me out in these recent skits.. *shrugs* I just added all that because I thought it was funny. Sometimes I daydream that my characters can “communicate” with me, and well.. they’re frustrated with me because of my long blogging break and not working on the whole creative writing project they’re all a part of in ages (well over a year). I still feel like my characters are writing themselves in the book and skit stories. I can totally imagine Ryen being tired of me focusing so much on Fierdan and Jack instead of developing the actual plot. But it’s okay, guys, I’m okay! :) … and lastly, point 4.

4) There is no Duke skit character anymore. Sure, saying it’s because there is no Duke in story 2 explains it, but I also like to think of it adding to the continuity of the events in Who Are You?. The main point of that skit story arc was to show the start of Integrated Fierdan into the skits. So every skit after that arc has the Fierdan skit character be Fully Integrated Fierdan.. unlike all the skits before that point. I refer to him as Integrated Fierdan, Fully Integrated Fierdan, Fusion Fierdan, Whole Fierdan. Any of those. There are so many “types” of Fierdan I like to label, but this type of Fierdan just means the Duke self (personality, memories, “soul”) is reconnected to (original, main) Fierdan. So now in these new skits, Fierdan is both old skit Fierdan and Duke. This Fierdan is also Duke. Because Duke is Fierdan. They are the same; just some weird personality split thing that happened (and how Duke was a physical person who actually existed, haha can’t forget that). 

I typed “Fierdan” way too many times. Time for me to talk about another character. Hmm, who should I choose? 

Oh, I know! Dylan! :) 

I’ve been thinking about him a lot lately. Just in general. I feel like the first proper introduction to him in the skits was with Bathroom Discussion. But yeah, he’s pretty important in the skit story I’m currently working on. I’ve finally began to think about him properly like he deserves. 

From what I’ve revealed about him so far, I made it so that Dylan really does not like Fierdan at first- and for a long while. There’s tension between the two. Fire and water don’t mix well. But not just because of their Elemental Powers. I tried to open up about their dynamic in Bathroom Discussion, but in this current skit arc, I plan on providing context for why Dylan doesn’t like Fierdan. Well, one reason. But it’s background information, nonetheless. 

Dylan has his reasons, I swear. Sure, he might be stubborn and petty as well, but his reasons are still valid. In the simplest way to explain it, he feels that Fierdan replaced him as the closest to Jack. Sure, Dylan and Jack have different personality types, but they’ve known each other and were friends for a lot longer than Fierdan who compared to them has fairly recently entered the picture. And well, Dylan and Jack have history. Like.. History. (iykyk,,) 

I’m not sure how much of an actual surprise it will be when the Confessions skit comes out. Hints were given. I am not afraid of discussing certain topics in my skits (I just reread a bunch of my older skits and can confirm; lots of my skits have heavy and mature content mentioned, huh).

Also (in a completely different way, I swear) Jack and Ryen have a lot of history too. They have History. 

I’m saying all this because I’m trying to show that the reason for Jack’s existence isn’t only to be Fierdan’s boyfriend. That ignores so much of who he is- what he did in the past, what he does in the present, what he does in the future. He’s not just the boyfriend side character. Sure, he seems that way a lot (especially in the context and POV of Fierdan) but that’s not all he is. I am so passionate about this. Jack has affected or will at some point affect most of the other main characters. Significantly. He’s so important that I could rant about his character for hours. 

Also like. He affects certain events towards the end of story 1 a lot. Things that happen with and to Stella (Twinkle) and Duke. Like, holy shit, Jack does a lot. I love him so much, damn. He’s That Man. He Does Shit. 

Anyway, back to Dylan. Alright so, he’s a trans guy (FTM). I’m trying to make it connect to his EP (water) and his feelings toward it. Also, another reason he dislikes Fierdan is because he can be dense as hell at times. Fierdan,, so oblivious,, such a silly dumbass (seriously though *smh*). Yes, I am glancing at Bathroom Discussion. 

When Dylan is introduced and just, well, exists for the most part.. he’s been on HRT for several months. I’m just unsure if by the time Fierdan shows up, if he would still be wearing chest binders or if he would have had top surgery already. I haven’t decided yet. I’m also adding this because in Bathroom Discussion, he was wearing a binder. Dylan does pass for the most part as a man, but when story 2 takes place, he’s still in the middle of his transition. 

He’s shorter than most of the cis guys and he looks young for his age, so he’s insecure and dysphoric about that a great deal. (And what does Fierdan do in Bathroom Discussion? *smh* He really thought Dylan was a young teenage boy, like a 14 year old lmao. He’s supposed to be 19. *cough, cough*)

Dylan is also aromantic and doesn’t really label his sexual orientation. So.. keep that in mind. Or not. I don’t really care. He has strong feelings about being trans and aro though. Like, hmm boy.. boy!! 

Oh and he isn’t neurotypical. Are any of my main characters neurotypical? I doubt it lmao. But yeah, just putting it out there that I can see him as autistic. Anyway, fuck stereotypes, goodbye. 

Moving on to something else… 

The character I called Red in the last skit. Yeah, she’s not just a skit character. She’s a story character. I’ll show an avatar I made of her in a Picrew whenever I make that post. She exists, I swear. Her real name isn’t Red though. I still don’t know her name, and she is disappointed in me for that. 

Red and Ryen are friends. Yes, Ryen has a friend. It happened. This is real. (trust me, bro)

Since I recently reread the Explain Yourself at the Help skits, I feel like I should explain that… Yes, Red works as a receptionist. Yes, there was a receptionist at the Help place in that skit arc. No, they are not the same person. They are two different women, I swear. It would be funny if they were the same person, but they’re not. 

Now it’s time for me to speed-run. Ahh!! 

*dumps thoughts out in no particular order* 

I love how I basically turned Stella’s personality in skits into someone who constantly disses Fierdan (and Duke). I think it’s funny. Sure, she might be mean, but come on, it’s Stella. I love her. She’s been dissing Duke and Fierdan for years now. Good for her lmao. 

She likes being like “*points to Fierdan* You have abandonment issues” because it’s true. He really does. Especially Integrated Fierdan. Goddamn, Fierdan be showing symptoms. What are you? Severely traumatized and mentally ill or some shit, Danny boy? I kid.. he is. Very. Help him.

I forgot what skit I put it in (maybe it was in I Have No Home / Take Me Home) but I was surprised to reread that I included my thoughts about considering Fierdan having BPD. That was an actual thing. I put it into a skit already. Damn, I totally forgot. Yes, I’m still considering. And not just that but several traits from other Cluster B personality disorders. Because hoo boy, Fierdan sure does have traits. 

I feel like I still have to emphasize how unstable his relationships are (any type) and his fear of abandonment and being alone. Like, it’s severe. It’s why he acts the way he does in story 2 and pretty much as soon as he’s escaped from Cincernum and Soulless’s control. Honestly, you guys, Fierdan (talking about Integrated Fierdan) can be and is such a clingy bitch. A person he perceives as leaving him? Oof! Leaving him alone for a Period of Time? Oof! Not a good idea! He will and has had mental breakdowns over it. He’s not okay!! 

Soulless.. hmm… 

Soulless and Taurel from that recent skit. Yeah, they’re pretty much destroyed and dead by the time story 2 happens. The reason why they were in that skit was to show them haunting Fierdan in his dreams. Danny boy ruminates too much on the past, I swear. 

I also added a bit of inspiration from my own intrusive thoughts into how Soulless and Taurel behaved in that skit. I sometimes like visualizing my intrusive thoughts as shit either of them would say. They have the potential. They can be intrusive thoughts if they want to. I believe in them (lmao, what am I saying). 

They seriously are that way though. The shit they said in that skit? It’s accurate to their characters in the story. They would totally say that kind of shit if they had the chance. 

As for what Fierdan said about Taurel’s eye, it’s referring to what he (as Duke) did to Taurel’s other eye. Duke stabs one of Taurel’s eyes and rips it out. At that point, Duke does a lot more graphic gruesome fucked up shit because he’s Demonic Duke, was tortured, and just completely lost it. 

As for the whole thing between Fierdan and Soulless, especially certain lines Fierdan said in that skit from the other day.. hoo boy, is it really that surprising? I’ve been implying it for years. Including when I was still writing and posting Twinkle’s Story chapters. I forgot which chapter I put it in, but it’s in the story canon, written down and all (not explicit but implied and can easily be assumed). And this shit is from 2017. It’s been a thing. I’ve just kept been avoiding talking about it. Until this year. 

[THE NEXT PARAGRAPHS WILL INCLUDE MENTIONS OF SEXUAL ABUSE AND ACTS OF VARIOUS TYPES OF ABUSE, INCLUDING WITH CHARACTERS WHO WERE MINORS AT THE TIME.]

… … 

… … 

Because of Soulless (the creature it is- Soulless is not human) and how no other characters (only Duke and Fierdan) have had direct contact with Soulless (because others can’t- and Dawn has amnesia and lots of dissociation regarding her past), it makes Duke and Fierdan (but especially Integrated Fierdan) dismiss all the trauma he has from Soulless to be “real” and legitimate. Fierdan dismisses his trauma a lot and says how the other characters suffered from “real” trauma. He does this so much with Dawn and Duke because both of them were sexually harassed and assaulted by other humans, the first time happening when they were children (like, young kids).

I wrote what happened to Duke in the Help skit arc. I never really opened up about what happened to Dawn, but she was sexually abused a lot when she was very young. It’s horrific. It’s the main reason why she has amnesia about her past especially involving parental figures and her childhood in general.

I’m saying that.. that Z. (Ryen and Fierdan’s shitty father who caused the deaths of hundreds or thousands) did horrible horrible things to Dawn. He sexually abused her lots of times. 

Somehow (this is during the Pre-Fierdan days, so he and Dawn are very young) Fierdan back then found out what Z. did to Dawn and just how far he dehumanized and violated her. And all of this fueled the raging fire of how Fierdan grew up, under Soulless’s influence which made him become such a violent individual even more so, to hate Z. and inflict his vengeance and “justice” on him. Fierdan never forgot those memories unlike Dawn. Learning what Z. did broke him. Z. hurt her. 

Z. also was abusive to Ryen, but I’m not getting into that now in detail. Anyway, my point is that out of the three of them, Z. probably treated Fierdan the “nicest” (and by that I mean Fierdan doesn’t really see Z. as having had terribly abused him). Z. abused and traumatized his siblings greatly, but Fierdan? What did he do? Just call him weak and pathetic and shame him for his interests? What’s that compared to being repeatedly abused sexually (Dawn), or being forced to not have any life outside of working on a huge project and having your entire self-worth depend on your work ethic for years- and add emotional/psychological abuse and sexual abuse in a different way (Ryen)? Like no wonder Fierdan thinks he’s had it the easiest and isn’t justified in his trauma because Z. didn’t do certain things to him. Sure, how Z. treated Fierdan (who I call Kid Danny or Pre-Fierdan) could be called abusive and he definitely traumatized him, but he (Fierdan) doesn’t see it as bad enough, severe enough.

So that also plays a part. While Z. didn’t do it, Soulless abused Fierdan in all kinds of ways for years. Particularly during the time they spent in Cincernum- the years spent there. And since no one else could’ve really intervened, no one could stop what happened. But the abuse could’ve started before then too- leading up to Fierdan killing Z. or in the year afterwards but before Cincernum. 

Anyway, Soulless fucked Fierdan up badly. Manipulated him, threatened him, touched him certain ways. You name it. And yeah, Soulless was pretty much like a fucked up parental figure and teacher to Fierdan and Dawn (mostly just Fierdan though) during their childhood and teenage years. The impact Soulless had on them, it’s a lot. 

And just like. How Soulless treats and touches Fierdan in Cincernum. Damn, it’s fucked up. I call Soulless an evil demonic bastard for a reason, people. The way Soulless talks about Fierdan’s body. Just.. wtf. So no, Soulless and Fierdan weren’t a cute “problematic” thing. I’ve been calling their relationship dynamic whatever the hell they had toxic and abusive for reasons, damn it. 

This all happened for several years: Soulless messed with Fierdan’s head. Soulless punished Fierdan for not listening to it or acknowledging it by putting him through immense physical pain. Soulless criticized Fierdan for being weak and powerless without it (using it/its pronouns for Soulless here), called him pathetic, and treated him like a toy (iykyk). For years it was very hard for Fierdan to know whether Soulless touching him the next time would be with an intent to hurt the living shit out of him (think burning from the inside out, cuts and bruises, being lashed and beaten)… Or whether Soulless would touch Fierdan all over until its touch was all over and in him (without his consent of course) in order to prove a point in how weak/powerless/small/pathetic he is and how unmanly he is (which ties into his interests as Pre-Fierdan and even his body post-puberty). So that was basically Fierdan’s life in Cincernum with Soulless. It fucked him up a lot. 

To conclude, fuck Z. and fuck Soulless. They are evil and cruel and just very bad characters (because of the shit they do; it’s interesting to develop them as characters from me being the messed up creator of this whole cursed mess).

Then add the layer of Fierdan dismissing everything that Soulless did to him because it’s Soulless and not a regular human. And then add the mind fuck of Fierdan (integrated) wondering if he made Soulless all up (how? wtf? but also if that were the case, then he is the very definition of mascochist, which.. hello wtf!!). Soulless is totally a real character that totally existed. Trust me. Aaaaaahhhhhhhhh!!!! 

But really though. Duke wouldn’t be Duke and turn into what he became if Soulless wasn’t a separate entity from Fierdan. Mm probably. 

Danny boy, please. Soulless abused you emotionally and psychologically, physically, and sexually for ages. Fierdan, I am begging of you to realize you are justified in being severely traumatized. It’s not just the trauma from what happened to Duke. Stop comparing what happened to Duke during the torture arc and what happened to Dawn before you even called yourself Fierdan to what you went through. You didn’t go through shit and are too weak and dramatic.. shut up! Lies! Shut up goddamn!! 

[WARNING CONTENT OVER.]

I am so normal. I am so normal. *screams* 

Reading over old skits and realizing how much and for how long I wrote about Fierdan and Jack. Hoo boy! Damn! I can’t believe it’s been a thing for quite a few years already. They’ve been together for years now! Ahh! (That’s not how it exactly works *smh*. Shh! Shush!)

The number of skits I have including them using sexual innuendo. Uh,, hello!! *insert flushed face emoji on repeat* 

Reading some of my skit lines I wrote for Fierdan to or about Jack and vice versa. Damn!! *spams the letter h* hhhhhhhhh- 

I am so normal. I am so normal. I am man. I am guy. I am dude. I wish I were Dylan. Gonna steal all of their genders and gender expressions actually (Dylan, Jack, Fierdan). Mine!! *spam the letter a* aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa-

I then proceed to pass out. Dang, I’m sleepy now. 

*collapses onto bed and passes the fuck out* 

something something skit and fourth walls breaking

Hi. That is a title. 

Mhm yep. Sure is. 

I don’t know what to put in the intro. Here. So… 

My skits- oh geez. Perhaps too intense? Too *gestures vaguely*? Yeah probably. 

This skit story is basically me dumping out lots of thoughts I have about my characters and story concepts. Mature and heavy themes. Yeah. 

Well, things need to chill, so this part will just have a warning for strong language. 

Is this post’s skit a call-out post for me? Possibly. Does it actually count as breaking the fourth wall? Maybe. 

I don’t know. 

Let’s see how another character is doing. Let’s see what he’s up to. :)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[Time: Late afternoon or early evening. Location: The end of a hallway in what looks like a business plaza or something like that. I don’t know. Ryen is talking with a woman around his age. They’re in the middle of a conversation. She has dyed red hair and part of her head is shaved. She looks cool. Unfortunately, I haven’t developed her character much, and I don’t know her name yet. I’ll call her Red here. Just go with it.]

Ryen: Gosh, you don’t know how much of a relief it is to have them back from their trip. You don’t know how unproductive things have been until you remember how productive things used to be. Until you remember how productive everything can be. It’s like a weight has lifted off my shoulders now that they’re back. 

Red: Remember you can’t do everything and neither can they. All of you deserve rest and a good break. 

Ryen: Yeah, I know. They work unusual hours because of the skills they do. It’s just relieving to have people I can rely on. *stretches arms, leans against the wall* Like you. You don’t know how much talking with you has prevented my mental health from falling apart. Well, at least it prevents me from relapsing. *scratches head* Sorry if that came out weird. I’ve been so stressed lately with everything going on. 

Red: I willingly talk with you, silly. We’re friends. It’s fine. 

Ryen: Thanks, Red, I appreciate it. I don’t know what even got you into doing the work you do and being such an ally to us. None of the stuff we do concerns you and yet you care about our safety and our right to exist. 

Red: Red. *chuckles* It’s pretty ironic that Shan is writing this when she.. they.. don’t even know my name. 

Ryen: I think Shan is fine with whatever. Pronouns don’t matter that much to them last time I checked. We try to just refer to them as Shan to make things easier and not confuse any potential readers too much. And they/them if pronouns can’t be avoided entirely.

Red: *scratched chin* Ah, well then, alright. Shan doesn’t know the names of the twins either, right? 

Ryen: *nods* Calls them Redacted 1 and 2. Shan isn’t good at naming characters and places. *laughs* Like, where even are we? The setting description is so vague. No names. Nothing. 

Red: I know right. You would’ve thought Shan would have figured this all out by now, but I guess not. *pauses* Sorry, I went on a tangent. It’s called being a decent human being. That’s all it is really. 

Ryen: *adjusts glasses* What? 

Red: Making sure you all have the right to exist. It’s not a radical move to think the government is made up of assholes and that their desire to try to eradicate you guys is stupid as hell. *sighs* Shan hasn’t properly planned out any of the political stuff, I’m guessing. 

Ryen: *sighs* That’s right. We can only talk vaguely. 

Red: Well, this is frustrating. What can we talk about then? 

Ryen: *shrugs* I don’t know. 

Red: Also, like, you have to remember that not every “ordinary” human agrees with those dumb ignorant people in power. In fact, most of us don’t. You’re all just like us but with some extra skills. That’s it. You’re not that different from us. 

Ryen: *sighs* Simply having powers makes them see us as a threat. People who share that ideology, I mean. Of course not everyone agrees with them. Having a large group of people agree on something is impossible. 

Red: Exactly. 

Ryen: People with those extremist views can be in the minority like you said, but just knowing that those people exist and are out there makes us simply living dangerous. 

Red: You thriving is an act of rebellion. 

Ryen: More like just existing. Heck, you’re probably a rebel too since you’ve been helping me and all of us in general so much and for so long. 

Red: Perhaps we’re all rebels. If that’s how the government sees us as. Fuck them. 

Ryen: *smiles* Yeah, fuck those assholes. *unbuttons the top three buttons of his button-down shirt* They’re a bunch of hypocrites. 

Red: Want to rant about them? *laughs* 

Ryen: *looks up at the fluorescent lights on the ceiling* No, it’s just a statement. I’m tired and am thinking of heading back to my place. I need to get out of these clothes. 

Red: Oh ok, that’s fair. I’m pretty tired myself. I don’t know how but sitting on my ass all day can drain my energy. *yawns* I think I need a nap. 

Ryen: You do work. Being tired after a work day is understandable. 

Red: Comparing being a receptionist with the spying and infiltration work you guys do is laughable. *stretches arms over her head* Sometimes I wish I could do the work you do. It sounds a lot more fun. Less monotonous. Far less chances of having to interact with stupid customers. 

Ryen: *looks down, kicks away a clump of dust next to his foot* I get the desire, I really do, but you really don’t want to do the shit the others and I get into. It’s too dangerous. Especially since you don’t have any special powers. They have their purposes and can make things a lot easier. *sighs* Sure, not all of them understand that yet, but they’ll have to eventually. *frowns* Including my brother who I swear refuses to do anything productive if it doesn’t involve—

Red: He’s very different from you, I know, but you know you can’t control him. 

Ryen: *laughs bitterly* Believe me, I’ve tried. It didn’t work. 

Red: I mean it. Besides, he’ll get his shit sorted out some day. Hopefully. 

Ryen: I can hardly wait. *sighs* It’s hard not to be angry with him. Look what he’s done to Jack these last few months. Is this what being in a relationship does to people? All this lovey-dovy bullshit—

Red: Just because you don’t experience attraction and don’t understand romance doesn’t mean it’s bullshit. 

Ryen: I know, I know. It’s just.. I hope this doesn’t sound too gross.. fuck, sorry, I don’t know. 

Red: *laughs* What? You can tell me whatever. You know that. 

Ryen: *sighs* It just feels like the only thing tying him to the present is love. Romantic love. It’s like Jack is the only person who matters to him. 

Red: I doubt that’s true. 

Ryen: Then why does he not fucking do anything? He’s not the only one with trauma. Complex trauma. 

Red: *frowns* Look, Ryen—

Ryen: I know, ugh. I hate how it feels like the rest of us don’t exist to him. Damn it, Fierdan doesn’t even hide how much in love he is. For so long he’s been seen as a heartless monster who can’t feel love or compassion. Maybe this is his way of saying “fuck you” to all who demonized him. Plus those years of isolation couldn’t have helped. *shakes head* But still. *pauses* Shan should be blamed too. So much focus on the two of them and their relationship, but what about the rest of us? We exist too, damn it! 

Red: Is being angry with Shan going to get us anywhere? They’re our creator after all. 

Ryen: Ugh yeah, that’s true. Sometimes I’m convinced that Shan and I are on different wavelengths. That we have different priorities to story writing. They’re obsessed with character development and relationships meanwhile I’m focused more on plot. There needs to be action; shit has to happen. This isn’t a slice-of-life story. 

Red: Wait, Shan thinks you and the others are.. what? Planning what happens? 

Ryen: Hmm, not exactly that. I don’t know really. 

Red: *twists a few strands of her hair around her finger* Is this some breaking the fourth wall shit? What we’ve been doing? 

Ryen: Ah.. hmm.. maybe. I’m not sure. I haven’t really thought about it. 

Red: *smiles and chuckles* Well, no use to get heated up over something we can’t control. 

Ryen: Shit.

Red: What? 

Ryen: Just remembered another reason why I’m so frustrated with Shan, my brother, and Jack. 

Red: Just let it go. 

Ryen: I should, huh? I can’t though. *takes a deep breath* It’s futile. I know it is, and yet…

Red: Fine, spit it out then. It’s better than ruminating on it. 

Ryen: This sounds embarrassing, but I hate how they use his fire abilities as like a.. I don’t know.. turn on? Is that how it’s used? Fuck, I’m cringing at myself. 

Red: You’re fine. It feels like something you’re too awkward to speak about. 

Ryen: It would be weird as hell if I didn’t feel awkward and gross about it. He’s my little brother. And yet.. and yet. *groans* Why does it have to be when they’re not alone by themselves? I could be trying to start a meeting, and I hear them whispering comments to each other. Do they really not give a shit that we’re all in the same room? God! 

Red: *laughs, then covers mouth with hand* Sorry. This sounds kinda funny. 

Ryen: *rolls eyes* Wow, thanks. I thought you were on my side, Red. 

Red: No, wait! I am on your side, I swear! 

Ryen: I hope you are. *sighs* It’s weird to see Fierdan treat his fire as just a tool to attract people he’s.. interested in romantically. Like it’s a selling point on a dating profile or something. 

Red: What even—

Ryen: Shush, you! I swear I’m not crazy. 

Red: If you say so. 

Ryen: *avoids looking at Red’s face* He treats his fire abilities as a tool for sexual arousal. I swear he does. 

Red: Okay, that’s weird to say. 

Ryen: Red! Please. I mean just from me overhearing what he tells Jack sometimes. Also with how Duke was with Stella back then… You have no idea what I’m talking about. 

Red: Not really, but I know Fierdan used to be Duke. Something like that? I mean.. kind of? Like a separate personality that split off and became its own person? Shit, that’s freaky if you really think about it. I know it’s more complicated than that, but.. wow. Your brother.. geez. 

Ryen: I know right. I think the rest of us gave up on trying to fully understand it. 

Red: Yeah, that’s understandable. I can’t even wrap my head around it. I don’t even know how I know what I do. 

Ryen: Didn’t I explain it to you? 

Red: Yeah, probably. 

Ryen: Murder. Being homicidal. Or being horny. My brother’s personality in a nutshell. 

Red: *laughs* What the fuck. 

Ryen: It’s true, I swear to god. He refuses to use his fire powers for any other reason. Since most of the time he isn’t fixated on wanting to try to kill anyone these days, he only uses fire for.. whatever the hell he does. *pauses* Nope, I’m not going to think about it more. Stop it, brain. These feel like intrusive thoughts but also not. *shakes head* I don’t know. Sometimes he makes sudden comments when I am attempting to explain the situation to a certain mission, and I just… Ugh, does he even listen to what I say? It doesn’t feel like it. He wants to get into situations that could get us killed with no preparation, no planning whatsoever. 

Red: *nods* If I were in your shoes, I would be frustrated too. 

Ryen: Mhmm. I get that he doesn’t care about his safety and life, but it’s just so stupid of him to think he can be an assassin. Killing those people won’t solve the main problem. It would just make things a lot worse for us. Burning everything can’t be the answer. *sighs* His fire still has value, don’t get me wrong. He just needs to discover it. 

Red: They already see you all as threats, so killing one of them will just— excuse the pun— will only add fuel to the fire. They don’t see you as humans as it is. 

Ryen: Exactly, thank you! I’m so glad I can talk to you about these things. Because you get it. 

Red: Yeah, of course. And I keep your head in check, make sure you’re rational and make logical decisions but that you still have feelings and aren’t a heartless robot or whatever. 

Ryen: Oh boy, I have emotions and can feel them! Since when? *smiles* 

Red: Crazy, right? You’re human. 

Ryen: Yeah. It took me years to realize and accept it. That I’m not a cold, heartless and emotionless machine. I’m human. 

Red: Ryen the human. *laughs* 

Ryen: That’s me! I’m Ryen the human. Fuck you, dad! 

Red: Yeah, that’s the spirit. Fuck you, Ryen’s dad! 

Ryen: *laughs along with Red* You’re the best. 

Red: *flips hair over her shoulder* I know I am. *looks down the hallway* Damn. How long have we been talking here? 

Ryen: Not sure, let me check. *checks the watch on his wrist* Oh. Oh wow. 

Red: What is it? 

Ryen: *shows Red the time* 

Red: Well, we have been talking for a while. 

Ryen: Sorry if I kept you. You’re tired too, right? 

Red: Yeah but so are you. 

Ryen: Well, I’m going home. You?

Red: Me too. I still intend on taking my nap. 

Ryen: Of course. 

Red: Have a good night, Ryen. *starts walking away down the hallway* 

Ryen: You too. Take care. *waves and starts walking as well* 

————————

I’ll end it there. 

Okay, I’m done. I’m tired. Good night. 

~ Shan (haha, that’s me!)

skit story time # (lost count)

Hey, I’m back. I have motivation to make another post now. 

By that I mean I came up with another skit story after forever. Technically it’s continuing from the last two posts but whatever. And so, it is skit story time # (I lost count). Yes. >:)

I tend to write skit posts late (after midnight). That’s when I start. I enjoy finishing my skits with a character or few saying “Good night.” because it’s so fitting. I finish the skit part, publish the post, and then I pass out (sleep for a few hours). It was funny with the last one (the one I posted on Sunday) because I ended up being busy all day. So funny. I went to sleep a little after 5:30 am. Got at most 4 and a half hours of sleep, probably less. And I wasn’t in an awful mood all day. Nice work, me. 😆

I swear, the only way I think about my characters these days is if I plan and write skits. I don’t obsess over my characters if I don’t do that. This isn’t surprising at all. Hi hello it’s me. I am trying to revive my special interest here. Damn, I’m autistic! Wow! 😳🫣

Oh wait, I still add songs to my characters’ music playlists. That’s still a thing. I love music so much. Hell yeah! 

🌝🌚 A few points before this post’s skit:

1) They really do play video games in my plans for the story canon. Obviously it can’t be any actual video game any of us can play because the characters are fictional and their setting is fictional. I’ve been wondering how my characters would react to playing Mario Kart if they had the chance, so I decided to make Jack and Fierdan play that. I like to imagine it being one of the first times Fierdan played it.

I chose the characters they played as (Baby Luigi and Dry Bones) randomly. But also I know some gay Luigi memes, so I thought Fierdan playing as Luigi would be funny- and making him play as Baby Luigi would be even funnier. As for Jack, I can imagine him playing as Yoshi or Dry Bones. I don’t know why. Just a hunch I have, I guess. I haven’t actually played Mario Kart in a while, so my apologies if anything is wildly inaccurate in the skit. I miss playing it. This is yet another very unsurprising fact.

I’m not sure which console they’re playing it on, but I imagined them playing it on the Nintendo Switch when I wrote it. Obviously I can’t name the video game console they play on that (something something copyright or trademark, idk, stuff like that). 

2) I keep thinking that I’m a manipulative person and a liar, so that’s one reason why manipulation came up. I’ve also been thinking about how manipulative they (Jack and Fierdan) were and are. They sure have histories of engaging in manipulative behaviors. 

What? Jack isn’t wholesome? He also did very bad things? Uh.. well.. yeah. He’s done some Things that I don’t approve of. Jack X Fierdan problematic men couple for real. I say that half-jokingly. Pretty much all of my characters have done problematic shit. Suspicious things, lacking morals. They’re not good people. When I say all of them, I mean all of them. 

3) What is with that fourth wall shit? Yeah man, I have no idea. I just thought it was funny, so I started adding that in. Yes hi, I’m Shan, and I’m problematic. 😔😭 *is actually laughing* 😈 

4) Shan, hello?! What the fuck was that last skit? Hello?? 

Ehehheehehheheheheee eeeeeee 🫣😳 

Uh what- 

*insert gibberish here* 

5) That ending with Dylan. Oh boy, Jack and Dylan have history. Oh shit! 🤯 

(I also don’t know why I’m adding emojis. I haven’t made blog posts in a while. I need to express my feelings! Grr roar ahhh!! (wtf) *insert more gibberish here*)

Alright, I’m done. That’s all I felt like I had to say before this post’s skit. 

Thank you, yes, I am completely sane. 🙂 (might be questionable) 

Yes, I’m dumping thoughts about my characters I’ve stored up in my brain for a long time. 

Yes, I feel like I dissociate when I write my skits. The characters are writing them themselves. They’re too alive. Girl, help— 

… I don’t know what to name this skit story. I’m not good with naming stuff. Too many things happened, happen, and will happen. It’s too much. 

Introduction and commentary over. Skit begins now. 💥 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[Time: Unknown. Probably some hour in the middle of the night when Fierdan finally is asleep. Very late. Location: Fierdan’s dreamscape. It’s very dark literally and figuratively. It’s giving some Cincernum vibes. SKIT WARNING: lots of profanity, mentions of trauma and death and sexual content, homophobia.] 

Deep but also androgynous voice: *speaks in an accusing and mocking tone* Do you have to swear so often? All this potential.. wasted. You’re so pathetic without me. So weak it disgusts me. You make me cringe. 

Another voice joins in, a man’s voice: He speaks so profanely like it’s his mother tongue. I can’t say I’m surprised since he came from Hell. He was and is inhuman, a demonic creature. Attempts at exorcizing him failed, and he left me this bad scar. *man walks into an area that’s less dark, he has an eyepatch covering one of his eyes and one of his hands is made of metal* 

First voice: A merely mortal human man against him. You should’ve known you would inevitably fail. *sighs* To be fair, I did contribute in helping him back then, but we are separated now. He broke our agreement. They both did. 

Second voice: And look at us now, meeting up together. The tables sure have turned. 

First voice: Indeed they have. 

Fierdan: *finally appears in his dream, mutters under his breath while looking at the speaker of the first voice and then the second* Soulless. Taurel. 

Soulless: *in a cheerful tone* The boy has returned! 

Taurel: *in a not-cheerful tone* The Fierdan has joined us. *stretches his arms up and behind his back* What did you want to lecture him about? 

Soulless: *nods to Taurel, then faces Fierdan who is much smaller in size than the other two* Must you swear? Every other word I hear from you is a swear. 

Fierdan: Since when were you concerned with my language? You raised me this way. *stares defiantly up at Soulless*

Taurel: Raised?

Fierdan: Shut up, Taurel. 

Taurel: Still fiesty—

Soulless: *cuts him off* Shush, you. I am speaking. Wait your turn. 

Fierdan: I heard you earlier. I am the best version of me with you gone. I haven’t been better. 

Soulless: *laughs* That’s a good one! You are nothing without me. Then and now. I would say nothing has changed but you got worse. It’s like you’re devolving back to your young childhood self before I educated you properly. 

Fierdan: What did you educate me on exactly? 

Soulless: Tons of things. I was your parental figure and your teacher for years. I raised you like you were my child. Her as well but not as directly. *stares more intently at Fierdan* But I am specifically focusing on your.. lifestyle. Your clothing choices, your romantic and sexual choices… Frankly, it makes you weak and pathetic. You lost all your potential, and your current life disgusts me to my core. Well, if I had one. You call me ‘Soulless’ after all! 

Taurel: He swears like a sailor and he’s frequently sexual with a man. Not as nature intended. It further proves my point that he is a creature from Hell, escaped from there, and will return there some day. He is a sinner through and through. 

Fierdan: *eye twitches* I wear whatever the fuck I want. I don’t care if some of my clothing choices are gender non-conforming. I wear whatever I like. My outfits make me happy. 

Taurel: *yells* You are a man! Stop dressing like a freak of nature! 

Fierdan: Shut the fuck up, you piece of shit before I pull your other eye out of your goddamn eye socket. 

Taurel: Continuing threats of violence, I see. How fitting of your character.

Fierdan: Funny how you think I’m just speaking threats. *hands clench into tight fists, tries to get closer to Taurel but Soulless blocks him* 

Soulless: Calm down, the two of you. 

Taurel: *glares at Soulless* He swears too much and is way too sexual. And on top of that, he chooses to make love with another man! 

Fierdan: We get it. You’re homophobic. 

Taurel: *laughs* Homophobic, he says! *turns to face Soulless* What did we talk about earlier? How he is degrading himself by turning himself into a creature of lust and sodomy? 

Soulless: That is true. I wonder if he likes the thought of being fetishized and seen as nothing but a sex toy. 

Fierdan: *scoffs* Sex toy! You’re one to talk considering all you did to me in Cincernum. Remember the ways you touched me? I haven’t. Your marks still haven’t left my skin, below the surface, no matter the number of times I’ve cleansed myself. I could have someone else touch me, with love and care, and could make love with them a thousand times, and your touch won’t go away! I could fuck and be fucked by anyone other than you over and over again, but the ghost of you, your fingerprints and whatever else, won’t disappear! You ruined me! 

Taurel: *takes a large step away from Soulless with a clear look of disgust on his face* 

Soulless: Ugh, stop being so dramatic. You’re both man-children. 

Taurel: Perhaps you caused him to be hypersexual. 

Fierdan: I’m not! 

Taurel: Oh, you’re not? Soulless has told me otherwise, right Soulless? 

Soulless: That is true. The truth is I have been watching you, Fierdan. 

Fierdan: *starting to shiver* I-It’s not true! Shut up!

Soulless: *chuckles* You’re so funny. I have in fact been watching you. All you do in that new place of yours is play video games, wear terribly not masculine clothing half the time, drink alcohol and smoke, and kiss and have sex with that… What was his name? Oh, that’s right. Jack. *sighs* Laziness. Alcohol. Drugs. Sex. That’s all you do; that’s all you are without me. And you say you’re happy this way? Don’t fucking lie to me. This lifestyle of yours needs to end. Now. 

Fierdan: You’re just jealous that I found someone else to touch me in those places. 

Taurel: *face reddens* How obscene! Sinners everywhere! Sins in abundance! With a man… *shudders* 

Fierdan: *stops shaking, faces Taurel* Taurel, hey, I have to tell you something important. 

Taurel: What is it? 

Fierdan: Suck my dick. 

Taurel: *looks so offended that he just runs away* 

Fierdan: *smirks as he sees Taurel leave* Finally. 

Soulless: I bet you would like that. Taurel is a man after all. 

Fierdan: Shut up! Go away! 

Soulless: *snickers* Sex isn’t a personality trait, Fierdan. *pauses* Honestly, I couldn’t care less about your sexuality. *sighs* God, that Taurel guy is so fucking annoying. How did anyone like him? 

Fierdan: I have no idea. I would say his charisma, but holy shit, he’s ugly as fuck. He’s homophobic and a bunch of other kinds of bigot, so I can’t say I’m surprised.  

Soulless: Oh look, we can get along after all! I absolutely adore this. 

Fierdan: No, I still and will forever hate you. 

Soulless: If I had a heart, I would be heartbroken. *stretches* What else was it that I wanted to talk to you about? 

Fierdan: Fucking leave me alone! 

Soulless: No, not that. What was it? Ugh…

Fierdan: *starts walking away* 

Soulless: Oh, that’s it! 

Fierdan: *turns around to face Soulless* 

Soulless: I’m not sure how, but you somehow convinced the others that Finny is with you. Stop manipulating them and yourself and accept the truth! 

Fierdan: *speaks softly* Don’t say it, don’t say it…

Soulless: Stop living in denial! He wasn’t with you then and he won’t ever be with you again. *crouches down to be eye-level with Fierdan* Your first crush as Duke no longer exists. He died. You killed him. 

Fierdan: Stop it, stop it, stop it, stop—

Soulless: You, as Duke, caused the death of Finny. Your best friend, your first crush that you suppressed so well that you made that girl with you be convinced you were straight. Did you ever really love her, or was she just a pawn in your game? 

Fierdan: *thinking back to his Duke self* I.. I think so? 

Soulless: You think so? 

Fierdan: No! *shakes head* Fuck. No, I did. I genuinely did love her. I didn’t expect Stella leaving and hating me to hurt me so deeply. 

Soulless: So you can be attracted to women? 

Fierdan: I mean, yeah, I’m bisexual. I’m romantically and sexually attracted to both men and women. 

Soulless: I can just imagine Taurel saying how that adds to your sexual depravity.

Fierdan: He would probably say that. I bet he would scold me for being in a relationship with Jack as if it’s a choice I fell in love and feel the safest with another man. 

Soulless: We get each other so well. *gets up* Ugh, I got distracted. My point is your first friend, your first love— who betrayed you, may I add— is dead. Finny died, Fierdan. 

Fierdan: *tears appear in his eyes* And you think I don’t know that? Do you honestly think I could really forget that? Fucking hell, he’s dead because of me. Sure, you corrupted my Duke self so badly, but fuck. Fuck! I could’ve saved him! If I only.. if I only found him faster. *stares Soulless in the eye* We killed him. He died because of us. It’s not just me. You.. you…

Soulless: You were the one in control, more than I was. Duke is a part of your identity; you’re Duke, not me. 

Fierdan: You made Finny get sick, but I failed to save him in time. Fuck.. I miss him so much. Is it really bad of me to trick the others into thinking he made it here? That he survived? 

Soulless: Are you really asking me? 

Fierdan: No! No, I don’t know. *falls on his knees* He did things no friend should have done, but he didn’t know better. Taurel tricked him. He.. He rejected me when I opened up about my feelings toward him. I don’t care that he’s straight and doesn’t see me that way. I don’t care! I just.. *tears are streaming down his face at this point* I loved him regardless. I miss him so, so, so much. 

[Waking world. Time: Early morning. Location: Jack’s apartment. Jack and Fierdan are in bed together.]

Jack: *makes a sleeping Fierdan get up and lean his head into Jack’s chest, wraps his arms around Fierdan’s back* 

Fierdan: *eyes closed, body trembling, eyes and face wet from crying* 

Jack: *to himself more than to Fierdan* Another nightmare, huh? There, there. *hugs Fierdan tightly, making his chest act like a pillow for him* 

[Several hours later. Dylan takes a deep breath in and out. Then he knocks on the front door to Jack’s apartment.] 

Dylan: *under his breath* Remember. Like we rehearsed. 

Jack: *opens the door ajar, sees that it’s Dylan, and opens it further* 

Dylan: *lowers the hand he knocked the door with*

Jack: Dylan! Hi, what are you doing here at my place? 

Dylan: Are you home alone right now? 

Jack: *looks back into his apartment* Uh.. yeah. Why? What is it? 

Dylan: *looks where Jack was looking, then looks at Jack again* I heard what you said—

Jack: *cuts him off* You heard us? Were we that loud last night? 

Dylan: *blushes* No! Not that! *looks disgusted* Don’t rub it in my face. God!

Jack: Oh, you don’t mean that. Ohh.

Dylan: I meant to say I heard what you told Fierdan about how we used to hang out together, just the two of us, and how we were close friends who played video games—

Jack: *arches eyebrow* How did you know? 

Dylan: [Redacted] was away on a mission and as she passed by your place, she overheard you and him. 

Jack: *sighs* I figured. And since I mentioned you, she told you. Right?

Dylan: *nods* Look, Jack, you have to tell him eventually. The entire truth. We have history, and you and me both know it. 

Jack: I thought you kept saying that we were friends and nothing more. I’m sorry I thought you wanted to be more than that, but don’t say I’m lying when I tell him we used to be much closer friends. Look, Dylan, I miss you. I miss you as my friend. I hate how distant you are. 

Dylan: You know what I mean. You can’t hide it from him forever. Or else he’ll find out by other means. And believe me when I say that none of us wants that.

Jack: *raises voice* You said we were only friends! I let him know we were friends! What’s the big deal? 

Dylan: You know what I mean! We were friends and nothing more, that’s true, but when most people think of friends, they don’t come to the conclusion that friends do.. what we did. And I don’t just mean playing video games together. 

Jack: Oh, of course. I should’ve known you meant that. 

Dylan: Fierdan has a right to know. He’s in a relationship with you, so you should be the one to tell him. You’ll sound more credible than me anyway. 

Jack: I guess that’s true…

Dylan: You’ve been in a relationship for a while now. It’s been at least a few months. 

Jack: I’ll.. I’ll think about it. 

Dylan: Jack, come on! Fierdan is so dramatic and loud and just fucked up, but come on! He deserves the right to know! 

Jack: I know, I know. I just—

Dylan: Just make sure you do it. Tell him. 

Jack: I will, I swear. 

Dylan: You better. I swear to god, Jaysen. 

Jack: I don’t go by that anymore. How would you feel if I called you by your deadname? 

Dylan: It’s nowhere near the same thing. The only way people will treat you completely seriously is if they call you by your full name. 

Jack: *rolls eyes* And where did you get that from? Ryen? He used to only refer to his brother as Daniel, and we all know how much he hates being called that. And we know how much Ryen hates being called Aeryen. *sighs* Birth names suck for lots of us. We’re not trans, but—

Dylan: Ugh, I get it. I’m sorry. Whatever. 

Jack: *sighs* 

Dylan: I really am. *sighs* I really do miss playing video games with you. I miss our gamer days. But I know you can’t just leave Fierdan. If I’m playing and he’s there too, then… It feels suffocating to be there knowing that he doesn’t know what happened with us. I just can’t get close to him if he never knows. It doesn’t sit right with me. *takes a deep breath* And no, I’m not jealous that you moved on to him. Or anyone else really. I couldn’t care less who you date. We never had anything romantic between us. You’re allowed to have other friends. But.. you know. 

Jack: *nods* I know. Sorry, I can be such a dick. I just don’t want to hurt him. You don’t see him when he sleeps with you. You could think he’s so happy, he really is happy before he falls asleep, but then he screams and cries in his sleep, and it’s.. it’s terrifying, Dylan. The things he says. His past was so tragic and just so fucked up. 

Dylan: Yeah, you’re right. I don’t know. But if you keep this secret from him, you will end up hurting him. 

Jack: You’re right. I know. This shit is so hard. *zones out, shakes head* I’m not over what I overheard him mumbling in his sleep early this morning. God, it feels like his past was an endless nightmare. So much violence and trauma. It’s horrible. 

Dylan: You have your own share of trauma. 

Jack: Nothing compared to what he went through! 

Dylan: Stop that. Listen to me. Your past fucked you up, and Fierdan’s past, no matter how fantastical it may seem, doesn’t dismiss what you went through. What happened to you. *sighs* Can’t believe I’m defending him. Maybe I don’t hate him. *laughs* 

Jack: I know you just have a cold exterior. Of course you don’t actually hate him. 

Dylan: Don’t test my patience. 

Jack: *smiles* Well, we’ve been talking for a while just outside my door. Want to come in? Have a snack and play a round of something? 

Dylan: No thanks. I really should be going. 

Jack: Fierdan isn’t here. It’s okay for us to hang out. It won’t be awkward. 

Dylan: Things will always be awkward between us. I’m sorry. 

Jack: Oh.. oh okay. 

Dylan: I know I’m blunt. I just.. sorry.. it’s just that I promised I would teach Stella something.

Jack: So you made a friend, huh? 

Dylan: Maybe. So what if I did? 

Jack: Nothing. It’s nothing. Have fun with whatever the two of you are up to. 

Dylan: Uh.. thanks. Goodbye Jack.

Jack: Alright. See you later. 

Dylan: *walks away, waves*

Jack: *takes a deep breath, enters his apartment, letting the door slowly close behind him* 

————————

March 2023 (03/2023) // XX

Hi, it’s new post time. I haven’t checked here in a hot minute. Yet again. *insert pensive emoji here* 😔 (yes.)

Well, it’s March now. March 2023. 03/2023. *thinks too much about the number 3 for a minute* 

… … … 

Anyway. I still haven’t fixed the commenting malfunction thing that happened to me again. I don’t know why after every few months, Blogger won’t let me comment while signed in to the Google account I have for this whole blogging thing on my blog. It’s very annoying. I don’t like it. I have to fix some settings or whatever. Yet again. *sigh* 

I also keep forgetting to make posts with Picrews I did with my characters. It’s been several months at this point. I just keep forgetting. Head empty if you will. Godddd I suck at remembering to do this blogging thing. Like, I put so much effort into putting ads on here and for what? For me to not even post? Bloody hell. 

:/ :/ :/ ……………

Now since it’s been haunting me since I made that skit in the last post, take this trash. Pretend it’s possible for my characters to reflect on what they said then. I have no idea when or in what dimension it takes place in. Is it happening a day, a week, or a month after the skit? No idea. 

Again, my head is empty and I’m dumb as crap. Oh wait, that’s just my digestive issues saying hello post-midnight edition. brb ✌️ 

… *a few minutes later* ok, let’s go. skit time! 😏

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[Time: Between midnight and 3 am. Location: Jack’s apartment. Warning: Contains profanity and suggestive sexual content.]

Jack: Why did you have to word it like that? 

Fierdan: Like what? 

Jack: Quoting from the last skit, “I have no drive.” Sounds suspicious. 

Fierdan: Suspicious, huh? Lmao. 

Jack: *arches eyebrow* Did you say say “el em ay oh” (lmao)?

Fierdan: *stares back at Jack* Yes. So what? 

Jack: *face has been blushing more and more ever since whatever this is started* N-Nothing. It’s nothing. I just don’t want them to get the wrong idea. 

Fierdan: Wrong idea? Who? I’d kill them!

Jack: *sighs, stops blushing* I thought we went through this. Threatening to kill people, even if they inconvenience us, isn’t a good thing to do. And don’t you have trauma about killing anyway? 

Fierdan: Right. Yeah, okay. *stares at the wall behind Jack for a minute or two* You said “psych-manipulation as powers” and I think that’s funny. Psych-manipulation? Psychological manipulation? Of course it’s psychological. 

Jack: I was talking about how me and [Redacted 1 and 2] have psychic powers compared to most of you guys with your physical Elemental Power. Come on, pyrokinesis is more different than the abilities of my powers. Like, yours and Dylan’s powers are more similar than how either of yours is to mine. 

Fierdan: Fire and water. Hmm, I guess you have a point. “Psych-manipulation” still sounds funny though. Want to know why? *grins, reaches out and pokes Jack’s nose piercing with the tip of his fingernail* 

Jack: *responds by wrapping his arms around Fierdan’s neck and shoulders, bringing him closer to him on the couch they’re sitting on* Sure. Why? 

Fierdan: Because we’re both manipulative. We manipulated people countless times. *breaks out of the hug, moves an inch away from Jack* We’re not good people. We’ve both done shady shit. 

Jack: Sometimes lying is necessary for safety and survival. Besides, the times when I was doing manipulative behavior the most was far before we met. My teenage years.. oh boy, I was like a different person. 

Fierdan: Haha, I was actually a different person as a teen compared to who I am now. I mean, Duke is a significant part of my personality now, but still, two different people. Well, sort of. 

Jack: You know, it is pretty weird how I met you at two different times. Once as Duke, once as Fierdan back then… Well, and then as the Fierdan you are now. So.. hmm.. three times then?

Fierdan: *shrugs* I guess. I don’t really care about that much. What were we talking about again? *smirks* Oh yeah, about how you were a manipulative little fucker. 

Jack: Well, yeah, I was, but— 

Fierdan: I’m kidding; don’t take it harshly. *reaches out and pats Jack’s head, ruffling his hair* I’m the last person who can judge you based on your past. No matter what you did. *lowers arm, stares at his hand* By the way, are you gonna ever reveal to the skit readers what exactly you did? 

Jack: *does the same thing (reaching out, messing up Fierdan’s hair with his hand, lowers hand a few seconds later)* I’m not sure if I’m ready to. Shan has a general idea of what happened, but I don’t feel like sharing in a space where others can read it yet. 

Fierdan: That’s fair. 

Jack: To put it vaguely, I manipulated some people to get me what I want when I was basically living on my own on the streets in [name of city]. Being homeless is rough, then add the layers of being queer and neurodivergent, and.. yeah, shit gets rough. I know I still have privileges though like being white and a man. But still, there were people out there who wanted to assault me and people like me. With my powers, of course I was going to take advantage of making sure I was safe and that every time would be consensual. With mine because I ain’t getting.. you know.. when I can mess with people’s perceptions. Didn’t make what I got into healthy and safe completely because that’s far from the truth. Fuck, I forgot what I was gonna say next.

Fierdan: It’s okay. *grabs one of Jack’s hand, intertwines their fingers, and squeezes in comfort* I love you even if you’re problematic. 

Jack: *laughs* Problematic? Shut up. You’re one to talk, problematic king. 

Fierdan: I know. I’m reclaiming “problematic” it’s mine. 

Jack: Reclaiming it. *rolls eyes* Okay. 

Fierdan: Ahh no, don’t hate me! 

Jack: Of course I don’t hate you, dummy. It’s just the way you talk about certain things—

Fierdan: I love you. Uh.. uh.. *avoids eye contact* Your eyes are so pretty. 

Jack: My eyes? What? *raises Fierdan’s head by prodding a finger under his chin* No, your eyes are gorgeous. Blue eyes are overrated, and I don’t care if you have a thing for blue eyes. I love my problematic babe, my Danny boy. *gives Fierdan a quick kiss* 

Fierdan: *blushes* Oh yeah. We have to remind them that we’re partners. Of course we do. *kisses Jack back, then gets up and starts taking his shirt and pants off* 

Jack: Dude—

Fierdan: What? Just insert a pun about how I’m hot and fire. Both are true. *makes tiny orange flames start appearing down his back, chest, arms, and legs* Look Jack, I’m fire man. 

Jack: *smiles* You sure are. And it doesn’t hurt? 

Fierdan: *shakes head* If it’s my own fire, then no. Very warm, yeah, but it won’t burn my own skin. *stretches arms* Oh man, I missed this. I bet the readers forgot I could do this. Heck, maybe Shan too. *takes a deep breath in and out, and then arms-length wings shoot and unfurl out from his shoulder blades* 

Jack: Damn, that’s hot. Literally. I’m sweating. 

Fierdan: I forgot why I have this as a fire ability, but it’s cool as fuck to pretend to be part-phoenix or fire fairy sometimes. Wings of fire is some hot shit. I don’t think I’ll ever be comfortable with doing the other colors of fire in my inventory, but classic orange/yellow/golden flames still look pretty cool. Black fire wings… *shudders* 

Jack: *nods* Yeah, mhmm, I’m paying attention to everything you’re saying. Of course I am. 

Fierdan: *wings casually flapping in time with the whir of the fan in the corner of the room* Whatever you say. 

Jack: I’m gonna turn the fan on high. *gets up and starts walking towards it* 

Fierdan: What? No, my plans! *tiny flames over his body grow slightly bigger* 

Jack: *stands in front of the fan, turns around to look at Fierdan* What are your plans? To make it so hot in here that I take my clothes off? 

Fierdan: Come on, you know you want to. Just wearing boxers is better than wearing all that. Let’s just hang out in our underwear. 

Jack: Uh, what—

Fierdan: What the hell am I even saying? *shakes head*

Jack: I have no idea, dude. That was weird. 

Fierdan: Haha, shut up. Please. You’re ruining the vibe. 

Jack: No, you shut up. *laughs then sighs* But for real though. These sweatpants are so uncomfortable. *pauses* Screw it. *takes off shirt, slips out of pants* 

Fierdan: *bites lip* That’s what I’m talking about. Hell yeah. 

Jack: Happy now? 

Fierdan: Yeah, of course I am. *stares at the fan behind Jack* Hey, turn it on high. It’s only gonna get hotter from here. *smirks* 

Jack: *turns the fan to its highest setting* But the start of this skit? What would they think? 

Fierdan: *walks towards Jack, his wings flapping wildly behind him* I don’t give a fuck. Let them think we’re “suspicious” or “inappropriate”— they don’t matter. 

Jack: If you say so. Can I even touch you when you’re covered in flames? 

Fierdan: Try it. 

Jack: I don’t want to get burned. 

Fierdan: You do know I’ve made myself get covered in flames even without being fully conscious of doing so a number of times when we slept together. And I know you know what I mean. 

Jack: *face getting red* Of course I know! Of course you did. Fire… *slowly reaches his hand out to touch Fierdan* 

Fierdan: We’ve done this a dozen times. There’s no difference when we’re standing. I promise I won’t hurt you. 

Jack: I don’t know. It just feels different. *his fingertips gently make contact with a part of Fierdan’s chest with a ring of tiny flames just outside where his fingers touch his skin* It’s warm but comforting. It feels nice. 

Fierdan: Mhmm. *grabs Jack’s wrist, pulling him closer so his fingers press into Fierdan’s chest, then he presses their bodies close together so one wing looks like it’s almost wrapped around one of Jack’s shoulders* 

Jack: Oh, oh okay. I like this. *moves the fingers on Fierdan’s chest up and uses them to trace part of Fierdan’s jawline, then kisses him there* 

Fierdan: *starts tracing over some of Jack’s tattoos with the tips of his fingers, slowly and deliberately moving them lower and lower* 

Jack: *does the same thing but substitute tracing tattoos with just barely avoiding tiny flames covering his partner’s body* So Fierdan, do you have a “drive” tonight? 

Fierdan: Bringing it back to what I said back then, I see. *sighs* Right now? Are you serious? 

Jack: *tries but struggles to not laugh* Completely serious. 

Fierdan: Move your fingers a few more inches down, and that should confirm it. 

Jack: *doesn’t do that* So what is it? Yes or no? 

Fierdan: *says under his breath* Lower your hand, damn it. *says louder* Yes! Obviously! You have more experience with this kind of stuff than me, yet you’re somehow dense as a brick or some shit. 

Jack: I’m kidding, I’m kidding. I know you’re turned on as much as I know that I am. 

Fierdan: I don’t know about you but you do a great job of affirming that I sure am allosexual and horny as fuck. For you. Fuck.

Jack: Obviously, I have a ton of sexual attraction to you. *stares into the flames that make up Fierdan’s wings* So hot.. you’re so hot. Damn. *pauses for several seconds* So, “drive” huh? 

Fierdan: Are you hyperfixated on that word or something? 

Jack: Yes… No. No, I’m not. 

Fierdan: Yeah sure, Jay-boy. 

Jack: *smirks* Want to mess with them? The rest of them? 

Fierdan: I just want to get to.. well, you know my dirty thoughts. *pauses for a few seconds* Sure, let’s mess with them. 

Jack: Alright. *turns to face the direction of a camera or TV screen (if there was one, there’s not), then uses his hand not touching Fierdan and forming it into a gun sign, pulls the trigger* 3, 2, 1.

[Static fills the screen (the skit readers’ screens) and eventually turns into a black and white chessboard. Then the screen clears to reveal Jack and Fierdan sitting back on the couch, fully-clothed and no fire.]

Jack: I don’t know what they were all thinking. Everyone’s so silly, huh? 

Fierdan: Definitely. The “drive” is about playing video games. Obviously. 

Jack: Yes, of course. Now, which type of vehicle thing and wheels should I make my character ride in? 

Fierdan: Just choose whatever. I don’t care. I’m gonna beat your ass. *taps his fingers over the game controller in his lap*

Jack: Keep dreaming, Danny boy. *finally makes a decision on a “vehicle thing and wheels”* 

Fierdan: Finally, let’s go. 

Jack: Okay but first don’t you find it funny that I messed up everyone’s perceptions of us? Like, we’re playing Mario Kart now. Totally didn’t make them perceive us at another time. Anyway, I’m gonna drive around the track a third time while you’re just starting your second. 

Fierdan: Shut up, damn. I know the controls now. 

Jack: *laughs* Yeah sure, buddy. 

Fierdan: I’m gonna beat you. Make sure we’re doing Rainbow Road. 

Jack: Because it’s the gay course? 

Fierdan: Because of all the rainbows and shit? Of course! Who do you think me and Baby Luigi are? 

Jack: *starts crying from laughing so much* Baby Luigi. God. I can’t. You chose Baby Luigi. 

Fierdan: Are you mocking me? You chose that skeleton creature. He’s not better than my favorite green man in baby form. 

Jack: You.. You mean Dry Bones.

Fierdan: I don’t care what his name is. You usually choose Yoshi, so choosing him instead is a huge disappointment. 

Jack: You’re killing me. Okay, ready to start? 

Fierdan: Yes, let’s go! 

[And so it begins. The characters start racing on the rainbow track. A few minutes later.]

Fierdan: Come on! Go faster! 

Jack: Oh no. *Dry Bones rides over a banana peel* 

Fierdan: Haha, I’m beating you now! Hahaha! 

Jack: Ugh, come on. Yes, go! 

Fierdan: *a shell hits Baby Luigi’s* Ahh fuck! Who did that? Was it you? 

Jack: What, me? No, no, no. I bet it was Bowser Jr. Look! 

Fierdan: *Bowser Jr. creeps up next to Baby Luigi* Oh, hell no! This fucker is going down! 

Jack: *laughs as Dry Bones suddenly sneaks past Baby Luigi* 

Fierdan: You’re evil. Doing that is evil, Jay-boy.

Jack: Sucks to suck. Be a crybaby like your Baby Luigi. 

Fierdan: My baby doesn’t cry! *screams at the TV screen* 

Jack: I loved how I introduced you to video games. Mario Kart is such a classic. 

Fierdan: Haha! Yes! Go, baby, go! *meets up with Dry Bones, uses a Golden Mushroom* Fuck yeah! Baby Luigi can drive better and faster than you! 

Jack: See, this is the “drive” we meant! Obviously! 

Fierdan: I have no idea why you keep saying that. It’s getting old. I’m gonna beat your ass in this race. 

[A few minutes later.]

Jack: Fine, I let you win. I’d beat you in the next one. 

Fierdan: Ahahaha! Baby Luigi and I are superior! *throws down game controller and pumps fist into the air* 

Jack: Okay, okay. I admit I haven’t had this much fun playing this in a while. *places the game controllers on the coffee table in front of them* Now I wonder… 

Fierdan: Wonder what? 

Jack: Who would win? You, me, or Dylan. 

Fierdan: Dylan? What about him? 

Jack: We used to hang out a lot more often before you came around. We spent days and nights together playing video games. He was so competitive. It was hard for me to beat him. Not just in this game but every one basically. 

Fierdan: Damn, I didn’t view him as that kind of guy. 

Jack: You barely know him. If you two ever stop bickering over who knows what, you would get to know how he’s a chill dude. 

Fierdan: You call him competitive; you call him chill. Make up your mind! 

Jack: You’re one to talk, Fierdan. You and your.. *gestures vaguely* everything you have going on. 

Fierdan: Ugh, okay. I get it. You two were friends. 

Jack: *nods, leans back on the couch* He got me into so many games. Playing with him is fun. We should all play some time. Probably at an earlier hour like before midnight, but I’m fine with any time really. 

Fierdan: Okay, that does sound fun. 

Jack: Mhmm… 

Fierdan: *stares at the ceiling* Friends, huh? 

Jack: *also starts staring at the ceiling* Yes, friends. I don’t care how unbelievable it is. Sure, the two of us are different types of queer and neurodivergent, but it also makes us relate to each other. 

Fierdan: Hmm yeah, I guess that makes sense. 

Jack: Yeah… 

[Meanwhile in Dylan’s room. Separate apartment. He’s in his bedroom, in his bed.]

Dylan: *rubs his eyes and checks the clock on his nightstand* 3:30 am. Geez. *sits up with his legs dangling over the edge of the bed and his feet on the floor, reaches for the water bottle next to the clock, grabs it* Almost empty? *drinks the last drops of water in it, sighs, then positions his hand over the top of the bottle in a particular way* Still thirsty. I hate getting that sudden urge to drink water at 3 am. *water starts pouring out of his fingertips like mini faucets until half of the water bottle is full* There. *drinks from the bottle, sighs, puts it back on the nightstand, stands up, earbud buzzes in his ear* Someone is thinking about me. Interesting… *stands by the door* I hate it. Just “friends” he says? Funny. He didn’t think that for a while back then. There was nothing more between us except for that, and what did he think? That we could no longer “just be friends”? Haha, first playing with water and now playing with fire. Hahaha. He can’t keep it from him forever. *paces back and forth in front of the door* Bullshit. I’ll hang out with you again when things aren’t so heated with things unsaid between the three of us. He’ll find out soon enough. *adjusts earbud* Thank you for letting me know. Yes, yes. Good night. Do the actual job you were assigned for. Good luck. Good night. 

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