[Game 21] Epilogue

[arsgoetia]

So, you get your Philly cheesesteak, and you head back on another train, returning to New York at fuck o'clock in the morning. Maybe you get a nap on the train, or maybe you're full of yawns and misery as you head back to Sariel's house at the crack of dawn. Paz went on her merry way with wonderful promises for the future, but Hale is with you, seeming remarkably energetic.

Madison is just barely held back by Kieran, it seems, from just sprinting out the door as soon as you get anywhere near the yard. As it stands, as soon as you all make your way past the gate, there's a redhead barreling down to greet you.

Comments

[liarliarliar]

I made it for everyone and then got greedy.

[psychopompous]

You're allowed to want things for yourself.

[liarliarliar]

You too.

[psychopompous]

[looks away, a little flustered]

I know.

[liarliarliar]

Okay.

I...

[why cant i find the right words geez]

[psychopompous]

. . .

I'll understand if you're angry with me.

[liarliarliar]

I'm. Not angry??

I'm worried and scared but angry is not a feeling I have towards you right now??

[psychopompous]

Oh.

. . . I'm sorry.

[liarliarliar]

You don't...need to be. It was frustrating that I couldn't...do anything to help besides. Exist. But.

You were just trying your best when it was hard and scary like I wa--

Oh no we're alike.

[psychopompous]

. . .

[makes a face]

What?

[liarliarliar]

You look so offended I don't know if that pleases me or not.

[psychopompous]

You're not making much sense.

[liarliarliar]

[sighs and pops a jolly rancher into his mouth]

We're both just trying our best and you didn't want my help for the same reasons I didn't want yours.

Creating between us a loop of frustration.

[psychopompous]

. . .

Those are going to stick in your teeth. You'll get cavities.

[liarliarliar]

But I need them they're my addiction.

[psychopompous]

Brush your teeth soon.

. . . it's difficult to balance. Relying on the people you trust. And wanting to protect them so they don't come to harm.

[liarliarliar]

I...yeah, probably.

I can't really protect? Anyone?

Just help.

But I wanted to help you instead of rely. Because you... I don't see you hurting like that often. But I just made you feel more frustrated so. I should have stayed out the way until we were done.

[psychopompous]

[he shakes his head]

I wasn't frustrated with you. I was just frustrated with myself.

[liarliarliar]

I know that.

But.

Don't be?

It all worked out. Kind. Of.

[psychopompous]

. . .

[his gaze slides away, over at Elluka. then he looks at the ground]

. . . it worked out.

[liarliarliar]

[reaches over and hugs]

[psychopompous]

[seems a little surprised, then just wraps his arms around him, squeezing]

[liarliarliar]

Whatever happens, we'll make it work.

[psychopompous]

Just . . . know I'm by your side.

[liarliarliar]

You always are.

You're...part of why I'm still here and trying.