expiationnet | video;

[He can do this, he practiced saying this out loud to himself a few times now. Just turn on the video, take a deep breath, throw on a cocky smirk even if you're nervous as fuck, and--]

So, guess who recently got a house?

[Him, that's the answer. Scott's surprised that it's actually happening, because he sort of just requested a house and figured they would shoot him down, but he's gotten blueprints and everything, so it's going to be a thing. It'll just take another week or so.]

And what does anyone do when they get a house? Obviously, they throw a party. So, I'm inviting all the Chosen to come over, bring food and drinks, whatever you think will be fun-- oh and presents too, because it's my birthday. I mean, it's passed now, but whatever, you can still celebrate it with me. It'll be in week when the house is done.

[He's not completely serious about the present stuff. Just somewhat.

Maybe all this will help people take their minds off the maze. He's seen how exhausted his friends are and this is the best idea that he could up with. Plus, getting away from the stupid locals that are all being dicks for some reason. It's been draining him.]

Oh yeah, if you're part of the Teenagers With Abilities and Talents Club, it's required that you come. Sooo, see you all there!

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Congratulations on your house, Scott. I am proud of you.

Also, happy birthday. Do stay out of trouble.

[Astralin can't see him smiling slightly because look, it's nice when adults say they're proud of him.]

Hey thanks.

And what do you mean stay out of trouble??? I'm always on my best behavior.

That is true... You are quite well mannered. One of the kinder, and sweeter young ones I've met.

Should you need any money for your party, I would be happy to give you some. Or if you need any ingredients for food, or plants... Feel free to come to me.

[Scott was mostly joking when he said that, so to see Astralin's very complimentary and earnest response causes him to fumble slightly. At least he's spared from looking super uncool in front of him, because it's text, but he still finds himself mildly embarrassed... and maybe just a little happy. I-it's not like he needs the approval of an adult or anything like that!!

He's a rebellious teenager and everything. Yeah.]

Uh, sure.

Oh yeah, you have a farm, right? Well, if you're offering, I'll probably stop by and grab some ingredients... uh, in cause other people want to cook. I don't really do any myself.

[TYPICAL DAD BEHAVIOR OVER HERE...]

Yes, feel free to use what I have in the pantry here. The aldrip people have been acting strange as of late, so I would not want you to have to rely on the shops in town.

... And perhaps you could stop by and pet the animals while you are here. We have several. Cows, piglets, sheep... Chocobos.

Yeah, they've been behaving like complete dicks, so rather avoid them when possible.

[Adults are so annoying, but guess Astralin is an exception. And maybe a couple of others.]

Shit, seriously?? I want to pet a cow and whatever a Chocobo is. Okay, I'm definitely coming over, you managed to convince me.

[He's a semi-grumpy teenager but that doesn't mean he's immune to a petting farm. Hell yeah.]

True. It is like they didn't know they were living with "criminals" before. 🙄

Oh. A chocobo is this, right here.

[Behold, a picture of two big yellow chocobos standing side by side.]

They look like bigger birds but you can ride these particular ones.

[That sure is a big bird. Maybe it's like riding an ostrich or something.]

Kind of weird, but cool. Can they fly and shit when you ride them? Now that would be really fucking awesome.

From my understanding, they cannot fly, but can jump rather high, glide, swim and sprint. I was also told that they are fierce companions and can fight in battle.

Also, if they are red in color, they can summon meteors from the sky.

[Scott finds himself nodding to the text and then--

What the hell????]

Uh, what?? How did we go from birds being able to like jump and sprint to summoning meteors?!

I have no idea. They are just powerful beings, ESPECIALLY, the red ones. Do be careful if you see the red ones around -- they may try and attack you with a meteor or two. But I have yet to see one in Expiation.

... Do you still want to pet the chocobos? The ones on my farm are very nice, and will let you feed them.

Uh, about that, someone may have to point out to me if I'm staring at a red one.

[Maybe he should just avoid all Chocobos in the wild because he's not dealing with a meteor. Fuck that.

But despite hearing all this--]

Oh yeah, totally. I'm here for the large weird birds that are from a different planet. Besides, never got to see an ostrich up close and this sounds close enough.

... Ah. That. Is true! If we are together than I will warn you, but you need not worry. There has yet to be a record of a red chocobo in Expiation.

[He chuckles again, and curves his lips into a soft smile.]

I am available at any time. Do you need directions to the farm, or are you familiar with the meadowlands?

Nah, I don't need directions, I've been before.

[At least Astralin is spared from the sight of Scott getting a dopey little smile as he thinks about a certain red-haired girl.]

You have? Ah, you must have gone with Kotone or Ken, I am assuming? You should let me know when you visit next time; I can always make everyone dinner.

Yeah.

[He doesn't specify who though.]

Geez, do you enjoy acting like everyone's favorite dad or something? [Or uncle? Whatever fits better.]

Oh. Do come and say hi to me at some point. Do not leave me hanging. :(

Hah. I did not think people enjoy my company, or like me that much. Although, it would make me happy to spoil everyone... Including you.

Alright alright, I promise.

Seriously? You're uh. [Scott huffs slightly because being honest with adults is still hard at times, especially in this place. Every adult he talked to ended up disappearing, with the exception of Dazai, and he barely counts as an adult most of the time.

Also the spoiling comment!!]

One of the less annoying adults here.

[Oh. That's quite the compliment. He always thought he might be annoying to the teenagers that he's befriended here, but to hear that Scott thought that... Well. It brings a nice, little smile to his face that he can't help but have.]

Thank you, that means a lot to me, you know. My children do not find me annoying as well, but it is always a surprise to hear that. I will make sure not to disappoint you.

[He's so nice... what is a 100% maverick like himself supposed to do with this? Also his children are pretty lucky, but that's verging on too sentimental for him.]

Okay, cool, well, see you later, Astralin.

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