Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The clitter of paperwork ruffled your eyes as you worked tirelessly...Funding, resource management, human resources. It's pretty exhausting stuff you were about to complete the last inch of paper but a sudden intrusion interrupted your train of thought.

A loud cling entered your eyes...The door to your office loudly opened and came in the culprit. It was one of your Sinners...Hella and with her glorious beanie itself along with that Iron Pipe she was holding...Dangerous indeed.

"Hey Chief! You've been stuck in your stinking office for hours, let's play something Come on..." She grinned mischievously but from seeing your sinking and blackened eyes her entire face changed.

"Holy f*ck...You look like s*it. Go get some goddamn sleep, I don't want you to collapse suddenly! How long have you been sitting on your butt?" She asked worryingly.

You lightly yawned at her question, pushing yourself up from your chair, and responded

"A couple of hours and one all-nighter...It's alright, Hella I was almost finished with today's work...What did you want to play? One of EMP's retro games or some cards." You softly muttered.

"Nightingale was right you are a bloody workaholic...I am not in the mood anymore why not walk together around the place...Gotta wake you up somehow, maybe if I start banging my pipe it'll do something."

"....That's a good idea, the walking and please don't destroy anything." You chuckled and stood up from your rolling chair, your joints suddenly ached from the unexpected jolting. You stretched for a bit to give some aid to your already slumbering eyes.

"I didn't think you were this thoughtful, Hella. You're normally more like a cute energetic gremlin." You unexpectedly say...It seems being sleep-deprived allows your thoughts to be more open...How terrifying.

"You're one to talk, Chief...Calling me a 'cute energetic gremlin' do you know how cheesy that sounds...Want to call me a beautiful one instead, my lousy Chief!" Hella teased with a cheeky face.

You're eyes constantly blink out from light and darkness, tired from the constant work even with this restriction it didn't stop you from ruffling Hella's hair.

"Yeah...You are a beaufitul gremlin." You unconsequently muttered out to the Sinner. Walking past the flustered Hella you soon reached the door and before you opened it, you called out to the other Sinner hiding in your workspace.

"Hecate would you like to take a walk with us."

Hella out of her flustered stupor, loudly screamed, "Holy f*ck how come I didn't see you!... How did you even hide from me while on the couch."

Hecate looked up from her sketchbook and responded quietly ignoring Hella's question.

"Is that an Order?" 

You quietly shook your head.

"...I see." Hecate slowly stood up and opened a page, showing a chibi figure of you sleeping on your desk. "I would love to..." Her face was emotionless but having experience you could see a slight smile on her blank face.

"Wow...It seems only Chief could make you smile like that..."

Hecate stared at the cheeky Sinner blankly, "Gremlin..."

You walked up to the door with an exhausted smile and twisted the handle once you were there. Opening the door you were greeted by two familiar faces.

"Chief...*Ahem* I didn't think you could hear me." It was your lovely Adjutant...Cut that last part out. She stood in front of the door to your office holding the usual slick black clipboard.

"Merely a coincidence...I was just about to take a walk with, Hella and Hecate. Wanna come?" You lightly asked with a smile.

"This is gonna be a pretty weird work if we're going with four people!" Hella muttered.

"If Chief doesn't mind...I am okay with anyone else joining." Hecate added.

Nightingale slightly trembled in your eyes from the offer but she huffed in denial.

"I'd have to refuse...Being your assistant doesn't give me enough leisure time plus you have a guest." She gestured to the beautiful lady beside her.

The CEO of Quinn stood proud, her smile radiating arrogance while she looked at you, her hair making your already blank eyes slightly winced at the sudden brightness.

Eirene Campbell.

"Hello...Dear Chief, did you miss me?"

"Miss Eirene." Your eyes locked onto her crimson and blue eyes, and you stared at each other like you were in your own world.

Hecate, Hella, and Nightingale stared at the conflict between you two.

"Psst...You think they're secretly in a relationship like in those dramas." Hella teasingly whispered but not quiet enough as it echoed throughout the room.

Hecate lightly elbowed Hella to silence her, "Hey!" Nightingale glared for a second at Hella then returned to her normal passive face.

You didn't know if it was your imagination but Eirene's ears turned flustered red when Hella's teasing reached...However, it was quickly covered up with the CEO's confident facade.

"I came all the way from Eastside for a simple game of chess. Would you like to indulge me for a bit, Chief of Minos...Or is too much to ask? I could wait while you rest for a bit."

Hearing this request, you faced your caring Adjutant and asked her for a simple order.

"Nightingale...Slap me, I need to wake up."

"Excuse me!?" "Chief?" Hella and Hecate yelped in confusion while Eirene chuckled in amusement.

Nightingale saw your current state of exhaustion and complied. Her hand cupped your face...What? And she started shaking your head...Your body tensed up as the jolt awakened your senses.

She stopped after a moment and asked with a neutral face. "Better now?" You nodded your head. "Don't ask me to slap you...I am your Adjutant not a Alarmer."

"Noted." You once again locked eyes with Eirene now fully woken up. "Shall we have that match of chess..."

"You're interesting as always...I'll come closer so I can see your adorable face when you lose again." Eirene strode forward, her heels echoing through the room with each step.

"Psst...Nightingale, you sure they're not going to do anything weird while we're gone." The cheeky girl asked.

"Please stop trying to imply things...Sinner Hella, we better get going now and...I hope they finish it before night comes." Nightingale looked at the stack of the mostly completed paperwork and the small unfinished pile. She quickly took the paperwork and walked past the conflict that was about to begin.

"Have fun...Chief and take a proper sleep when you finished." With that, your Adjutant left.

Hella and Hecate joined the club as well.

"Crush her, Chief!... You not going to say anything Hecate?"

"There's no need." Before Hecate left the door she had one last look at Eirene, gazing at her with suspicion then went out the door.

As the door softly closed with a thud...Eirene's eyes glared down at you with absolute Greed

"It's just you and me now...Let's see how you can last, my Dear Chief." 

You felt a shiver down your spine as her soft words reached your ear...There was something wrong with her sentence, you just couldn't figure it out...Oh well, probably nothing...You hope.

...

"Checkmate."

Eirene knocked the White King out of the chessboard and onto the pile of defeated chess pieces.

"The first win of the day...Twenty minutes you improved since the last time we played...How about we do something different this time?"

Your eyes blinked for a moment...You had a feeling, Eirene was planning something devious, after all, you know how much of a schemer she was...At least she can be honest and upfront...Well sometimes.

"Different how?"

"Simple we asked each question and we have to answer honestly...And since you lost I'd be the first one to ask. I won't ask anything confidential, only things that we can get to know other."

You thought about it for a second...There wouldn't be any risk to accepting it unless she ask you something embarrassing but when did that stop you? You sucked at chess though and the only reason you were keeping up with her was you simply copy and adapted to what strategies she pulled out.

...As the Chief thought you wanted to know about your Sinners, not because it was your job...You just wanted to understand them...They all needed a hug.

"I accept."

Eirene smiled at accepting your proposal, "Perfect. First question...What's your favorite food, dish, or cuisine."

 "...To be honest, I don't really have one, I usually just enjoy everything I eat."

"Oh...Would you like me to give you one? When you come to Eastside, I'll treat you to a full-course meal at my club." She generously offered...Suspicious.

"Midsummer Night's Club..." You quietly whispered to yourself, the incident with the Ambrosia flashed before your eyes.

"Something wrong, Chief...If you're worried about the price."

"It's not that...I just realized Serpents are kinda cute."

Eirene turned quiet and soon she laughed. "You sure want to say about that her...After once she's done."

"If she's willing to change, I am fully committed to helping her and maybe making her happy." You didn't know if it was because of your sleep-deprived state but those words naturally came out of your mouth.

"Would do the same for me?" Eirene softly asked and a sense of vulnerability was in her eyes.

"...Aren't I already doing that? I am having a Chess match with a lovely CEO." You nonchalantly said not noticing the out-of-character quietness of Eirene her delicate ears turning flushed red again.

"Wanna have another Match?" You called out.

Your voice knocked Eirene out of her eerie silence, and she gathered her piece onto the checkerboard again.

"We have all the time in the world, Chief. Let's see how long we can keep enjoying this wonderful moment."

...

"Checkmate...Again, Chief do you still want to indulge in my musings, frankly, you seem like you're about to perish."

You could barely open your eyes but...You had to at least win one time. You lost so many times you lost count of how many questions you answered.

"I'll answer the question...Tell me before I actually fall asleep."

"...What do you like about me...As a person? Is it my beauty, personality, or wealth or is it something else Chief? Answer honestly I might even give you something special if you."

You forced your eyes to open and without a doubt, you simply answered.

"Your Greed...I like your Greed...Just because that's how you're a really kind greedy CEO..."

That was the last sentence before you laid your head on the table and closed your eyes, as darkness swallowed you whole.

...

Eirene Campbell stared at the enigmatic Chief in a room...They were all alone in his office, one was a Chief of the MBCC and the other was a S-Class Sinner, the former was so defenseless so naive to suddenly fall asleep in front of her.

She soon reached his side of the table and sat right next to him...She reached out of her purse and pulled out a camera...Light flashed as she took a shot, a picture of the Chief peacefully sleeping.

The Chief was right...She was greedy and at the same time patient enough to fully bide her plan...To take the Chief all for herself.

The Chessmaster soon quietly watched his sleeping figure...Knowing full well there were other rude intruders out to see their precious Chief as well.

A green Serpent hidden in the dark corners of the room, a Raven shrouded in pale green outside of the window, a shining mirror, numerous azure butterflies, a crimson blood flower, a little Nightmare, a little wooden Oak Casket, starry spirits... and Plenty more stalking the room. 

With the CEO of Quinn not batting an eye at such entities in his office...It meant...She got the first strike.

Her heels clicked against the floor as she stood up, glancing at his peaceful figure one last before picking a blanket on the couch and resting upon his collapsed figure.

"Cute."

She left the office not before stealing a piece of candy from his desk and opening it quickly.

Victory was so sweet and right in her hands.

A/N: I am down bad for Path To Nowhere...

Chapter Text

You opened your eyes to whiteness...It filled up your entire sight, up, down, right, left, the whole color was everywhere. It was familiar to you...A nagging feeling hit your head as you desperately tried to figure it out, and then it hit you like a bullet.

This was a dream...A dream, a dream, a dream, a dream. It should have been impossible unless a peculiar magical Sinner was the cause of this dilemma.

"Serpent you can come out now...I know it's you" You shouted and after a few moments your voice soon reached the assailant, the maker of this dream.

You were suddenly spooked as her voice whispered into your eye.

"Sorry Chief...I just wanted to attempt to give you some happiness and pull you into a dream. It's the same as the last time I tried it...Oh well? At least I can talk to you and try this!." 

She appeared in front of you like a firework and stared at you vividly, her serpentine eyes glowing greener with delight, her figure surged forward as she drew closer with a wicked smile.

*Pop*

Confetti rains down on your body as Serpent looks at you with smiling amusement and the confetti popper in her hands.

"I can still make you smile that equates to happiness? So smile!"

You had a dumbfounded look on your face as you stared at the dazzling Serpent.

Upon seeing this your Sinner now had a concerned look.

"That's didn't work? Then how about this!" Without any warning, she suddenly bit your finger...Pain filled your mind as a drop of blood slowly dripped into her mouth.

You didn't feel happy at all...A dream was a false reality. Sometimes a fake can rival the real thing but...This time you knew that was a hopeful lie still you can see the time and effort Serpent tried to bring you true happiness unlike her previous obsession with dreams it was now grounded with reality...Kind of.

"Hmm...All my tricks failed now what? May my dear Chief not feel any happiness in his dreams...I am about to cry from how saddening this..." A single tear dropped from her eye...It would have brought heartache to you but you knew...She was only teasing you like a cute little snake.

You flinched from her teeth biting into your finger but you called her out.

"Serpent...Did you bring me to a dream to mess with me or did you do it...Because I wasn't spending time looking at your wonderful circus tricks."

She detached herself from your finger and stood glamorous right before you...Looking away with bashfulness...Caught in the act, hand in the cookie jar.

"Of course I am...Your work is so deep that you missed out on my show. Am I not good enough for your attention do your papers attract you more than me?" Her eyes were staring right at your soul.

"No, it's...Sorry, work has been occupying my time...You know how busy it is dealing with the affairs of Syndicate and I rather look at you than have to stare at paper all day long."

"Really...Well, I accept your apology...But the other reason I brought you here is because..."

Serpent pulled down her hat revealing her colorful cyan hair and delightful pointy ears. The dream darkened just enough as imaginary stage lights shined onto her.

"Watch my wonderful performance...It'll dazzle you until you fall right into my loving heart. So set your eyes on me and only me right now, my dear Chief."

You lightly chuckled and said with a bright smile.

"Sure...I would love to...Your tricks are one of the reasons I can get through my day."

Delight flooded Serpent's face...her face flushing red from your sweet words.

"Perfect...Well then for my first trick." She reached into her hat and pulled out a cute white fluffy rabbit with greenish eyes like Serpent.

You clapped, and the crisp sound reached Serpent's ears, bringing out a smile.

"That was one of my classic ones well...Be prepared I have more than one hundred tricks of my show."

"Wait what?"

You knew this was going to take a while...Seeing her genuine smile was worth it in your eyes.

...

You didn't know how much time passed but you enjoyed Serpent's company and her seemingly endless tricks...To Juggling, Cards, Stealing one of your buttons, and sword swallowing (You tried dismaying her from doing it but her insistent won you over...How does she even do that?)

"And for my last trick!"

Serpent gracefully spun with two sparklers in her hand, dancing akin to a snake...Not lurking in the cold darkness for its prey but instead in the brilliant light shining like a bright star in the sky.

Once the final spin was finished she launched the sparklers into the air and they exploded into a stream of light.

After it was over, Serpent turned to you with a light smile.

"Are you happy now?"

You replied with the same expression.

"It's about...Fifty-Fifty."

Serpent's eyes darkened to the fullest and she immediately pounced on you to the ground. Her pupils stared deeply into you as she striddled on your chest and her previous smile was now a pout.

"What's that supposed to mean?" She playfully swirled a strain of your hand around her finger contrasting with her menacing smile.

"It was fifty percent charming and fifty percent alluring...Similar to how you are," You quietly muttered to her...The angering look on the performer's face softened and her hands started to cup your face affectionately.

"Really?..."

"Yup...But can you do one more thing...It'll make me truly happy...Close your eyes and count to ten. Then open them when you're done"

Serpent followed the order to a t with each passing number feeling her heart with anticipation.

"10."

She opened her eyes and saw you peacefully sleeping...Your eyes closed shut like you were dead. Serpent's eyes twitched seeing this...She was hoodwinked, bamboozled, led astray, run amok, and flat-out deceived

"You adorable little s*it!" She soon pinched your cheeks as hard as you can...It was fruitless as you slept in a dream with a contempt smile while a beautiful snake was hogging your face...What bizarre circumstances.

Her assault stopped realizing how fruitless it was...She collapsed on your chest coiling her arms around your body and lay there feeling the beating of your heart...The warmth flooded her with cozy comfort.

Even a cold-blooded snake like her adores the warmth of the sun.

You and Serpent lay there together...dozing for who knows how long?... One thing can be certain even snakes can deserve happiness and..It'll never let go of its prey!

...

You soon woke up and collapsed at the same table you played with the CEO of Quinn...Arms stiff from the weight of your head slumbering atop the chilly table. It seemed Eirene was kind enough to clean up the board and the soft blanket atop your backside...You made a mental note to bring her a present once you can.

Once you flipped the switch, the ceiling lights turned on, and you checked the time to ensure you didn't oversleep somehow...4 AM. Way too early, you didn't seem tired enough to go back to sleep, and with how dry your throat was you desperately needed water.

So you ready yourself up and tidy up your office and prepared to leave...Out of the corner of your eyes, you saw a small green snake slither out the door. The memories of Serpent's dazzling show flooded your mind...Reminding you to take a break once in a while and properly check on your Sinners but before that, you needed to fill your desire for water and possibly breakfast.

You opened your already slightly agape door to the hall...Familiar to your eyes since you always walked through the turning corridor and several steps in, you spot someone in the dark. Adjusting to the blackness of the hall, you figured out who it was just from their silhouette.

"Ariel, what are you doing up so early?"

Seeing you approach she tensed up from a sudden shadow move but once she knew who it was she quietly said.

"Chief...Is that you? I am sorry I was taking a stroll, and couldn't go back to sleep if it's bothering you I can just run back to my cell and quietly stay there!"

"There's no need to apologize. You didn't do anything wrong and on the contrary, I am in the same predicament I woke up to earlier and can't close my eyes. If you want we can have breakfast together, the cafeteria should be open but we might have to cook our own food." 

You grimaced at the act of cooking...You knew how to cook but only knew how to make ramen noodles...You wonder how good ice can be, Kelvin is always eating it but shaved with flavor.

Ariel had the opposite opinion, her eyes gleaming with happiness as she blankly stared at you and whispered to herself.

"A stroll with Chief and breakfast...Is this a dream?"

You soon walked closer and waved a hand in front of her face, trying to attract her attention.

"Ariel, Ariel, you there?"

She backed away in surprise, noting how close you were.

"Sorry, Sorry just lost in thought...I wouldn't mind, I mean I would love to have breakfast with you."

"Great!" You held her shoulder, notching her shivering, and detached yourself. 

"Are my hands that cold for you?"

"No...It's warm, I like it."

You tilted your head. If she was going to compliment you...You had to give her one yourself, it was common courtesy.

"I like yours too, pristine and pretty just like you."

Her cheeks lightly flushed red but after a moment she composed herself and requested

"...Thank you. Can you stick closer to me while we walk, I can't see in the dark all that well."

'But how did you take a stroll before I ran into you?' 

You didn't ask out loud since there must have been a good reason for her to hide that fact...Was Ariel afraid of the dark? You mentally face-palm yourself...Why would she be afraid of the dark when she's casually taking a stroll...What a mystery! Unless...

"If you can't see in the dark...What about before you ran to me?"

"....I..." Ariel's tone quieted down like an insect, embarrassed about her few next words.

"You don't have to say if you don't want to...But I share the same pain, I too almost ran into a wall while walking into the dark last time." You lightly chuckled to ease her.

That was probably the reason she was embarrassed talking about such a subject...Weirdly, she was a few steps away from your office almost as if she ran away when you woke up and your door was slightly open when you left...

Maybe you were overthinking it or the paranoia was slowly influencing your mind. Would Ariel sneak into your office? Nope, but Serpent would...And show you magic tricks in your dreams.

"Yeah...That was the reason, I didn't want to do such an embarrassing thing about me...We should hurry up and quickly as fast as we can!" Ariel flusteredly grabbed the hem of your sleeves toward the cafeteria.

"Ariel!... It's fine If we're late and we're already too early." She ungripped you and started looking away.

"Sorry..."

"Come on lets go...I can run into a wall if it makes you feel any better."

"Please don't...Don't get hurt because of me!"

You quickly tell her it was only a joke...The pout on her face was the result of such truthfulness.

The two of you now made your way toward the cafeteria in comfortable silence...Once eerie darkness surrounding the both of you became a tranquil serene walk and after a moment the iron windowed door hiding your destined breakfast now faced you...Instead of being properly closed, it was widely open for all to see.

Lights were on, the air conditioner was humming, and most importantly two figures were seated on the tables. A pink-haired suona player munching on a chicken leg and the second person was a sleep-deprived director laying her head.

Once the former spotted you she put down her food and started energetically waving at you with a smile.

"Hey, Boss! Up so early aye...Want a song from the brilliant Dudu? It'll cost you a thousand Discoins for a session."

"No thanks, I rather keep my wallet not burning with a hole...Plus you're willing to give a free session to your dear Chief?"

"...I am the best suona player in the world if you can't keep up with my price...Just beat it then!"

"You're the only suona player I know...Also, you're a messy eater."

You shook your head and stood closer to Dudu, noticing the crumbs on her face...You picked up a nearby napkin and gently wiped it off her face...Careful not to get grease on her face.

"Fried chicken for breakfast...I won't judge."

Dudu blankly stared at your face then cheekily replied with a reddish grin.

"Boss...Did you fall in love with me was it my music that brought out the allure? I could have done it myself...But thanks for that."

"Couldn't resist it...Is the staff awake? I am kinda hungry."

"They are just grab a plate and get whatever you can..." Dudu then turned right to the other person here.

"Ariel you're here too?"

"Yeah...I ran into Chief while I was walking. I woke up too early and couldn't fall asleep."

"That so...Were you the one running down the hall?"

"I...don't believe so."

"Must have misheard it." Dudu calmly muttered then silently mouthed to Ariel some words making her blush redder than a tomato.

Seeing this you interrupted Dudu's teasing antics.

"Is this an Inside joke?"

"Hahaha...Yeah, it is...You'll learn it soon enough in the future."

You turned toward Ariel and asked her.

"I'll get a plate for the two of us...Do you have any favorites you want?"

"No...Why don't you choose for me, I've always wondered what you usually eat, Chief."

"Sure...I'll make sure you're all filled up." Hearing your words Dudu started manically laughing and Ariel stood jittering red like the sun.

"Ha...I should have phrased that better....I'll be back Ariel sit with Dudu if you want, she's nice to be around."

"...Okay."

"Damn, straight I am...My voice is as soothing as my suona!"

Before you leave to get some grub, you have one last thing to do...You went aside the table and towards Deren noticing the drool seeping on the table...You picked up another nearby napkin, wiping the slimy liquid off the director's face and once closer to her peaceful sleeping face you noted the messy hair atop her head.

You gently removed her fedora and fixed the messy mop of hair.

"Don't stay up too late again Deren...Ah is this how it feels to be a house husband?"

Once finished you gently placed her hat just enough not to wake her and left the Three Sinners...You gave one last glance seeing a smile plastered onto Deren's face.

"Sweet dreams, Deren."

...

Two Sinners...A Suona player with a melody of a phoenix and an empathic prayer now sat facing each other...They take no mind to the sleeping director and instead lock eyes.

The pink-haired Dudu broke the silence first with a hearty laugh.

"I can't believe you snuck into his room...I didn't think an Eastsider like you would do it! I mean his sleeping face is pretty cute. Might do what you did...Or not." She bit a piece of chicken and quietly waited for the former Spencer's response.

"...I don't know what you're trying to accuse Miss Dudu, I was only going for a walk, and if I did such an unruling act...Uh, I would ask him." Ariel lightly spoke but realizing the last part she fidgeted in embarrassment."

Dudu finished her chicken and snickered at Ariel's words.

"Ha...Who thought that Boss was such a player, Deren you hearing this...Deren? Still asleep...Well, we did watch ten movies at once?"

Out of her chagrin, Ariel spoke hearing the Suona player's word.

"Isn't that too much for a viewing?"

...

Meanwhile

"Chief welcome! Up early too...What would you like for breakfast."

"Two plates of Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Grits, Hashbrown, Toast, Fried potatoes,...."

The Staff Member started heavingly sweating hearing your continuing order...What's wrong with eating good?

...

"Yeah it was too many movies to binge but how they all gave me some lifelong experiences especially what to do when there's a murderer on the loose...Jump them!"

"I thought movies would have more romantic values...Adventure and maybe finding love."

"Yeah...We watched some of those, Deren, me and Raye...One wanted to waste some time being lazy and all that other stuff while Raye wanted to widen her poetry...I want Oak to join but she's busy at Romanesque...That sounds horrible for a cemetery "

"Deren is...a Wonderful director but I heard she's about slothful. I don't know much about Miss Raven but her poems are delightful...While Miss Oak she sometimes scares me a bit."

"Don't diss her like that...Maybe you have a point, she's a little frightening but once you get to know her...She's willing to murder for you! That's good friendship!"

The two stopped their conversation once you showed up with two plates filled with food.

"Holy s*it." Dudu cursed, her mouth wide open.

"Chief...That's too much food! I don't think I could eat all that."

"Ariel I insist..."

"Chief!"

"Ariel."

"...Fine."

"Good..."

...

You were now eating a hearty breakfast in the early morning as the artificial light hit your eyes you silently lampooned at the intense brightness and continued eating whilst Ariel was having some trouble downing her food but she enjoyed it slightly.

"Boss! Can a homie borrow a french fry?" Dudu suddenly called out.

You threw a fried potato with your fork into her mouth.

Ariel watched with a perplexed gaze..."What did I witness?"

"I caught a potato with my mouth...Not that big of a deal. Hey, Boss you remembered when Raye asked for permission to go out."

"Yeah...She ran into my office before I had...Some chess. What about it?"

Dudu suddenly pulled out a radio from under the table and slammed it down, scaring everyone from the noise...

"Ah." Ariel yelped.

"Ughhh...Dudu didn't I ask you to quiet down a bit...Eh, Chief! You're here too." Deren finally awoke from her slumber, she rubbed her eyes getting used to the bright lights, and lazily smiled at you.

"Oh...Can I have some?"

"Sure." You threw a potato into the open mouth of the director...Your fork-launching skills have improved indeed.

"Sorry...But guess who's about to make an appearance on Deadlover Radio." Dudu cheekily announced.

Hearing that name you were now reminded of the incident of the Discars...Love and Daisy are the two radio hosts that helped OwO to make a film...You sometimes wonder if that event was a dream, especially the Space Ducks...One of the main characters in that situation was Deren herself staring right at you with an affectionate grin.

Dudu soon hit a button and the familiar opening of a radio show hit your ears.

You took a massive gulp of orange juice and heard an energetic voice and a depressed one.

"Hey, Hey, Hey Everyone your favorite MC Love here broadcasting everywhere. Deadlover Radio is in the house...We're here today with a special guest, a writer shrouded in mystery who'd perfectly get along with Lil Daisy!"

"Hey!"

"Ra...Ra...Ra....Ra...Raven is here!"

"It's a pleasure to be here! Thank you for the wonderful introduction...But there's no need I am only a writer who has a fondness for poems...Nevermore was my personal favorite...It describes the struggle of a man's descent into despair at the loss of his lover....Mad enough to talk converse with a Raven."

"I told you, Lil Daisy...You'd be the perfect friends you even both went on a long tangent about arts and stuff."

"Stop mentioning that and get on with it."

"Hey...Hey I am sure Love is right...We both do look like we're dead inside." Raye laughed and muttered.

"Oh god...Don't go along with it too."

"Haha... Why don't you read us one of your amazing poems, Raven and spice it up with a little voice acting?"

"She already looks like she's about to die."

"Work is tough and If Love insists I'll start off with a simple introduction." 

The sound of paper rustling filled the cafeteria until Raye's voice spoke again in an exhilarating manner.

"I weep for the departed,
Mourning until their last breath
Gleam forth the dream of the olden
To wake from our slumber."

"Wow...What an amazing poem, I don't have any idea what it was about but that sounded so cool!"

"It's clearly about one's last moment flashing before their eyes...You should really up your literature."

"No need to nag on your fellow Radio Host, Lil Daisy."

"I got more poems in my back pocket...But before that if any fans of Deadlover Radio want to donate to me...It's for a selfish cause of mine I am raising funds for...A school that's right a school right smacked in the middle of West District...Kids shouldn't have to worry about Mania, Gangs, Random Gun fights, etc...They should live out their childhood by going to school getting an education, and maybe learning how to write...So if you spare a little penny for this writer, my little cuties can live another day...Thank you."

The two radio hosts and the Sinners in the cafeteria went silent upon hearing Raven's warm declaration.

You shoved a piece of toast in your mouth then wiped your mouth clean by the use of a napkin...After that, you take out your terminal and scroll to your balance then immediately deposit 500,000 Discoins into Raven's Account...You wonder how she'll react.

"...That bird's crafty as ever but it's a good cause I'll donate!... What are you smiling for boss? How much you donated." Dudu asked you.

"A good amount, enough that she can sleep at night."

"She's clearly gonna pounce on you when she finds out."

"Dudu...What are you talking about?"

"Nothing."

"Maybe...I can help too." Ariel chimed in

"That'd be great...Do you still have money?" 

"...No, I don't. Sorry."

"Want me to donate for you...How much are we speaking?"

Ariel inched closer to you and whispered into your ear.

"As much as you can...If you don't mind." Once finished she inched back with a flustered smile.

You rubbed your head...Your wallet will be missed. You donated another 100,000 Discoins into the writer's account...It seems your gonna have to eat ramen noodles as snacks this time but the scene of Iron and Anna angrily looking down at you for munching on cup noodles crossed your mind. 

Your screwed either way.

Love's voice broke your train of thought as she continued the show.

"For a writer, you got a blazing passion for helping them kids out...I adore it and for that let's keep the party rolling!"

Dudu suddenly calls out to you

"Hey Boss...If you don't mind can you donate for me too...I'll pay you back with interest I promise! You don't even have to give me credit." She smiled brightly but for some reason, you saw a devious plan brewing in that mind of hers...What's the worst that can happen?

"Sure how much?" You softly asked her while drinking a cup of water.

"200,000 Discoins."

You slightly coughed not from the amount but...

"Can you even pay me back? Your track record is...In the middle at best."

"I am not as bad as Whitestone Industries...I can do it!"

"...You may be right but that doesn't mean your wrong."

"Whatever you say, boss!"

You deposit another 200,000 Discoins into Raven's account and then you pray for your dearest wallet...At least it's for a good cause.

...

In a singular cell of a Sinner, a pale dark green-haired woman soon walked into her room. A pile of papers on her desk.

"F*ck me." She cursed seeing the stack standing there menacingly, her darkened eyes constantly blinking wanting to see if it was merely an illusion, she even pinched herself....It wasn't

"So much to do so much to see...Ugh. Making textbooks for my little cute students, and having to manage some paperwork for the MBCC...Screw it I'll do it tomorrow." 

The writer walked toward her unamusing bed...Once close enough she had one of her Ravens observing outside of her room just for this! She reached under the bed and pulled out a plushie.

Its hair is bluish black along with a white coat, blue collared shirt, gray pants, and black shoes...A mini plushie of the Chief of the MBCC. The only comfort that helps Raye sleep and made by a Messy Blacksmith and a Weaver of the Garden.

While snuggling the plush in her arms she pulled out her phone and noticed some notifications of people donating to her account...But when she saw the next message something snapped within herself.

900,000 Discoins Transfer by Chief.

Message: Hey Raye...I heard your making your school public I hope this helps and if you don't want it at least I can listen to your poems, your madness has a certain charm to it...My dear poet. So enjoy!

PS: Sorry for giving you so much work...I am in the same boat with so much paperwork (; ' ᗩ｀).

Her grip tightened, her eyes whirling with intensity and her smile manically. One single sweet suggestive thought lingered in her mind...Maybe holding her dear Chief captive wouldn't be so bad...And force him to listen to her poems.

"Hehe...I really depise you Chief making me feel like this."

The heat coming from her chest never stopped and the only person to do that was the plush tightly held in her arms.

"F*ck you Chief...I'll always keep on hating(loving) you struggle."

A/N: Why are the all Raven named characters in Gacha games always wanting to adopt some Orphans and kids...Maybe its Fate.

Chapter Text

You wiped your mouth with a napkin softly cleansing out the crumbs and grease off your mouth. Seeing the three empty plates on your table you pick them up, stack them together, leaving for a staff member to clean up. You stood up preparing to leave.

"You leaving me Boss? We haven't even finished listening to Deadlover Radio yet...Come on do it for me or Raye at least." Dudu tried to convince you.

"Sorry but as the Chief of the MBCC...Work is calling for me. Tell Raye I loved her...Goodbye, Dudu." You sadly said to the suona player as if it was the last time you'd see her and stepped forward toward the exit.

"Nooo Boss!...I'll miss you! Come back before Oak tries to snatch you up!" Dudu 'cried' her hand reaching out to your shrinking figure.

You shook her head hearing that statement...An Oak Casket would never do that! The person and thing.

"You do a cliche act like that as a goodbye! You gotta do better Chief!" Deren snickered lightly her eyes drooping in laughter

"Goodbye to you...Deren may we meet again in the new world."

You looked back one last time seeing Ariel fidget in her seat...But her eyes shined with determination to play a role.

The former Spencer stood from her seat, placing her slender hand towards her chest while stretching the other towards you.

"Even if you leave me, dear Chief...I'll still have you in my heart even in the depths of hell itself...Forget me not!"

Dudu and Deren clapped at Ariel's wonderful performance.

"Bravo!" The suona player praised.

As if in the moment, Ariel lifted her dress lightly and bowed gracefully...Seeing a sight you were reminded of something...A certain person who had a disgusting appetite within the depths of a soul and beautiful crimson hair...Her hungry eyes still sent you shivers toward your spine and neck.

And you had to feed her...Great!

You soon went back toward the kitchen passing the three Sinners quickly. They noticed your stride pass them with surprise.

"Boss where you going!" Dudu screamed lightly

You respond with vigor.

"Ramen, I am getting Ramen."

You open the door to the kitchen where the Staff Member who cooked your hefty meal stares at you with weary eyes.

"Chief I won't cook anymore for you...Who orders a quarter pound of bacon."

You bashfully looked down and took the scolding.

"I didn't ask for more...Do you have any more Ramen, I also need some Eggs, Scallions, a pot, and a plate...Do you have any more forks?"

...

The bag weighed slightly on your right arm, constantly moving back and forth as you walked toward your destination but the fast pace of your tracks stopped once you heard the sound of glass cracking and a foul curse hitting the air...

"Tsk...F*ck me." 

You rushed forward to the sound of gushing water and the scent of the salty sea...Passing multiple rooms you find the source. In one of the Sinner's rooms, there was water leaking from under the door, and you opened it intending to figure out what happened.

"How am I gonna clean up all of this now!"

A gray-skinned lady dressed in a white dress had numerous bindles of paper towels kneeling on the floor as she desperately tried to clean up the countless puddles forming but her frustration grew as they increased its size. The hole in her fish tank indicated the cause of the incident.

"Again, Lamia?" This accident happened in the past with her giant pet eel causing a power outage for the MBCC so you assumed the same circumstances happened again one of her pets seemed to damage the tank heavily...Thankfully you didn't see any blood stains on the floor or the walls and noticed a massive bowl housing the surviving fish on a nearby table...You clenched your fist...Yes, they survived.

"Chief?" She had a look of surprise seeing you here, her eyes suddenly softened on your figure but she naturally quickly put on a neutral face and approached you swiftly.

"Sorry about the mess you know how grumpy fish from 10,000 Meters in the sea are...Always crashing into things when they're not properly fed."

"Uh, Sure...Strangely, the hole looks like someone punched through it from the outside."

"You'd think I'd do something like that? I rather not waste both of our time cleaning the wet floor...The sooner we get it down, the sooner you can leave my...Room and do whatever you were doing with that bag of food."

"I am heartbroken...You don't want your dear Chief here?" You jested.

"I don't mind you hanging around here but...It seemed you had something more important planned am I right?"

"Yeah...I need to feed a certain Sinner but she can wait...Let me help!" You smiled brightly at her.

Lamia let out a sigh of relief, "Thanks...Chief."

You dropped your bag full of ingredients on her nearby bed and took some paper towels to help but you had a better idea.

"I'll get a mop and broom...Don't cut yourself on the broken glass...I don't want you cutting yourself."

"I am not some weak Sea Messager I can handle myself." She bit back with a smirk.

You smiled at her condensing sneer, "So you gotten comfortable to revealing yourself without your mask...It's fine you can curse whatever you want in here. I sorta like it when you speak your mind."

Lamia's eyes widen in surprise upon hearing this but covers it with her usual blank look.

"...Just help me out here you and thanks for that." You hear her softly whisper the last part, you keep up your smiling knowing this and head to the Maintenance Room before you leave one comment.

"You're welcome and...Don't forget my advice, I don't want your beautiful grey skin being cut...My Dear Sea Messager." The next few seconds were quiet before you heard a bashful voice coming out of her room.

"Don't say things you don't mean. You goddamn Chief."

You lightly chuckled and started getting the stuff needed to help Lamia with her endeavor.

...

You soon come back to Lamia's room with a broom, mop, and dustpan in your hand. What you first saw when you came back was a slightly cleaner floor still wet but not as much the most important thing was...The Ocean Messager was bleeding from her fingertips, covering her already grey hands dyed in crimson blood.

"It's fine Chief...It doesn't hurt as much for a Sinner. It's nothing for me."

You worryingly looked at her wound and slowly grasped it...Her face slowly brightened feeling your touch.

"I know it's nothing for you but to me...I don't like seeing one of my Sinners hurt. That's why I got bandages on my way."

She blankly looked at your hand holding the bandages.

"You knew I would do this, didn't you?"

"Yeah...I know how stubborn you sometimes are." You softly scold her.

"Like your one to talk." 

"I know...But still, I guess you all matter to me."

"This is the famous...Chief's Charm." You hear her whisper and think nothing of it.

You gently wrapped the bandage around her finger making sure it wasn't too tight...You were all too familiar with this...Treating Sinners with their wounds is part of the job of the Chief.

Her eyes stuck to you like glue as you held her hand and once you finished she quickly looked away.

"Done...I'll start helping you clean up and I brought you a hot towel so you can dry up, don't won't you get sick after all, also brought you some shrimp sticks if we get famished from all this clean up." You lend out your hand to the Ocean Messager, a steaming warm towel laid out in it and she greedily takes it.

"Your piece of work you know that...Have you considered being a house husband?" She softly muttered in faint fondness.

"I've been called that too many times and thank you for the compliment...Your wonderful as well." You replied and started dusting up the broken piece of glass.

"Shameless as ever...But still my dear, Chief." Once Lamia finished her drying she squatted down and joined in your endeavor in cleaning up her room.

A comfortable silence surrounded you both as you diligently worked...You hummed a soft tone whilst mopping the floor squeaky clean and noticed the frequent staring from your Sea Messager.

Your zone was interpreted as Lamia asked a sudden question.

"Chief...How are they? The family that I released from my illusions...I know I am the one who put them in that dream...I still want to know what happened to them." She casually asked but you saw her slightly tremble.

You continued moping and gave her an answer.

"They're doing all right...The Father was recently hired at a bank on the Eastside, and they can afford to live under a roof...And his wife started attending cooking lessons."

"How is the child..."

"Alive still...Strong girl...Her disease is incurable but it can still be treated."

"I see...How long does she have left."

"Another 10 years...But have some faith, she can make it...Sometimes even in the darkest of moments, there can be some glimmers of light."

"I know...Stop shoving that message right in my gullet...So What's her name, the girl."

You finished the cleaning of Lamia's floor and soon replied with a grin.

"It's Hope."

Lamia's face couldn't help but slowly curl up into a smile.

"Of course it is."

You put the cleaning supplies away and see the figure of Lamia sitting quietly on her bed...You joined her sitting next to her, basking in the liar's grey comfort. You moved a bag in front of her, grabbing her attention.

Shrimp Flavored Chips.

She hummed in agreement and grabbed the bag from your hands, opening up with the smell of the sea hitting your nose. Lamia quickly ate the bag savoring each chip, her face slightly smiling in delight and you watched her savoring her delightful reaction.

Noticing your stare she turned the snack towards you.

"Do you want some..."

You shake your head.

"I already ate too much for breakfast...You have the rest." Hearing your words she devoured the bag like a hungry shark and seeing her finish you handed her a napkin.

"Thank you...Chief." 

"You're welcome." You stood up from her bed and picked up your ingredients but what stopped you from going forward was a tug holding your coat in place.

"Chief...What you said about my skin, do you mean it?"

You turned back facing her face showing vulnerability and grinned.

"Yeah, I mean it...Even with or without your gray skin, you're still the foul mouth charming Lamia in my eyes." Soon you leave the stunned Sinner with a smile and out the door

...

Lamia stood quiet basking in his warmth, the lingering comfort in her right hand showed no signs of disappearing.

'What type of crap was this...I wish he stayed longer. Oh well, smashing my tank for an hour of his time was a great deal...What a bastard...Well he's my bastard, he just doesn't know it yet.'

Then she looked at the remaining fish in the massive bowl prepared for this scheme...Luckily no fish were harmed in this plan.

One thing was clear...Lamia was smitten by her dear Chief.

...

Cabernet Franc patiently waited and sat quietly at her dining table...She closed her eyes hearing those wonderful footsteps and her wonderful beautiful ingredient opened the door to her decorated room.

Expensive paintings and furniture adored her entire space...Her family's power showed, even in the custody of the MBCC there were always hidden faults in the laws itself...She used that power to hear, smell, see, and taste her dear Chief and his mere presence warmed up her appetite...He was the only real thing that could satisfy her hunger...Just having one single taste made her mouth salivate.

The temptation of biting his neck and drinking that warmth from his body sent shivers down her spine...Ah, she wanted to devour him and drink until the last drop! But she must bide her time and it'll be so better if her dear Chief was the one who was willing to be eaten...

'His soul grapes bursting in my mouth as the sweet juices slide down my throat...Ah, look what you did to me Chief! Seducing me with your alluring soul...I wish we could truly be one.'

Her daydreaming stopped as the front door opened quietly...Her dear Chief came in with a bag of ingredients wrapped around his arms and calmly greeted her.

"Cabernet...I brought you supper." He quickly muttered

The Crimson Beauty wickedly smiled upon hearing this and responded with a loving, endearing tone that one wouldn't mistake as angelic but...Cabernet isn't that, merely a hungry devil wanting to feast on her prey.

"Ah...You know me so well. Why don't we head straight to the main course...I promise it'll be the most pleasurable experience just like last time...Like a kiss."

The Chief's eyes didn't waver one bit facing the Franc...Instead, he stepped closer to the beautiful devil and stared straight into her eyes...

"Why don't we try something new, Cabernet."

"Pray do tell what that will be?" Her face tinged with amusement

"Simple." He rolled up both his sleeves and his eyes locked in with determination.

"I'll cook for you..." 

Cabernet went dead silent hearing your words, and she started genuinely laughing in a few moments.

"Chief I don't know what you're planning but...I have tasted countless dishes from the best, and they couldn't even satisfy me...Only your alluring soul can fill me up, so choosing to cook for me instead seems pointless."

"Don't worry it a food...That I put my soul into it." He muttered.

"Oh really...Really...I'll savor it then until the last crumb!" Her eyes greedily took in his determined eyes.

...

The Franc stared intrigued by the way her dear Chief, his way of preparing a dish wasn't all that special but the fact he was making one for her made her heart flutter...

'I want to ravish his neck!' Cabernet violently thought...The smooth white nape looked so tempting...Don't ruin the moment she paced herself and continued observing.

First, he opened a ramen bag, pulling out its contents, putting the yellow block of noodles in a boiling pot of water. Once the noodles were wet enough he drained the pot into her sink and placed the dried noodles on a plate, dressing it with half a seasoning packet and mixing it with a fork.

'Oh, dear...He's making me instant ramen...Such Blasphemy, I love it!'

Lastly, he topped it off with a fried egg, its yellow yolk shining rapidly, and sprinkled on lush green scallions.

Her eyes gleamed with delight seeing the finished product...She didn't care about its plain appearance but the objected fact...It smelled like his delectable soul.

Cabernet placed her smooth hands right on his shoulder and whispered, "So what would you like to call this fine dish?"

"The Ramen Cabernet Destroyer...Carbonara Flavor." Her grip on his shoulder tightened upon hearing such a foul name and gently whispered into his ear seductively.

"You know...In this amount of distance, I can smell your pulsing fear...Afraid that I'll devour you."

He stood quietly still and turned his head facing down the Crimson Devil.

"I know you well enough that you won't...You keep your ingredients close enough and provide stimulation to foster their growth...So come and try to gobble me up due note it'll be such a waste if you did so." He moved his hand and handed a fork to the devious Cabernet.

"So instead why not try this dish I gracefully made for you...It's to die for."

"Ha...Interesting. You're the only person who could make my heart flutter and at the same time make me so irritated at you." She lifted the fork and dug into the dish...The fluff noodles adorned with a buttery rich taste touched her mouth, and the egg crisped to perfection as its yolk spread infectiously. 

Bite after bite she moaned in joy as she devoured everything on the plate and after finishing her bountiful meal she wiped her mouth clean with a handkerchief.

She stared at the Chief and teased.

"You'd make a great Husband...I can taste the soul in that dish. How about it would you like to add Franc to your last name?"

He shook his head.

"Sorry...I am already taking."

Hearing those words...The air in Cabernet's room turned frigid cold and her once-alluring amber glowed wrathfully digging deep into the Chief's eyes.

Her next words sent a shiver down his spine.

"Who was it...The one who stole my ingredient from me. Didn't you promise that I'd be the one to savor your soul? So answer...Who's the vile thief if you do I'll give you the most pleasure time you'll experience! Was it that little stalking hush of a monster or that white-haired gardener maybe it was that hairdresser with such a cozy voice?"

"It's the MBCC...I am already taken by the MBCC!"

The tension in the room stopped as a light chuckle echoed through the room...Cabernet laughed hearing your joke and said with a sweet tone.

"Can I eat you?"

He responded with a deadpan face.

"..."

Then reluctantly said.

"One grape."

...

You soon returned to your room exhausted as if your soul was eaten...Planning to freshen up and go back to your office you opened the door and walked right in...Noticing the strong scent of flowery sweetness. You slowly crept inching closer to your bedroom, the smell getting stronger with each step until you opened the door.

It was occupied by five individuals.

Sumira calmly sat on one of your cushioned arm-rested chairs, reading a novel depicting two lovers in each other's arms.

Garofano as well in another chair immersed in her work diligently creating a seeming small plushie of yourself.

Gekkabijin seemed to be meditating intensively on your couch and Thistle seemed to be deep asleep as well, napping right next to her.

Lastly...The Mentor of the Garden was the first to notice your arrival as she lay on your bed and snuggly hugged one of your pillows.

"Hello, my child...I've been waiting for you."

You stood in your tracks...And decided to borrow one of Lamia's phrases, cursing quietly to yourself.

"Oh, f*ck me."

Chapter Text

As the Chief of the MBCC, you dealt with many dangerous situations, such as Mania, Black Rings, assassination attempts, and a hitman. You even defeated an Outer Deity from a higher dimension, more like sent it back home with the help of Stargazer.

But right now your comforting room has become the most dangerous place you stepped into...Your original plan to shower to lighten your dry eyes seemed to be foiled as the Garden a Sinner Organization well, a former organization surrounded you as you were confined to a chair.

There were no bindings, only the tension in the room. Being surrounded by five of your Sinners made you stay seated. They stared at your trembling figure, and you quietly looked at each one of them before saying.

"Why are you all in my room?" 

You notice the overpowering sweet smell of flowers engulfing your mind as they slowly inch closer to you. Garofano and Sumire were preying from behind gripping the backside of your chair...You nervously smiled seeing this.

Coquelic was the first one to answer with her usual haughty smile. Posing elegantly and dramatically, as always positioned right in front of you and taking most of the spotlight.

Her soft hand cupped your face, eyes gleaming with delight as she stared at your face. Her cherry lips parted as she spoke her words

"For you of course...From what I heard you haven't gotten much rest so my flowers and I decided to spoil you with our presence...Are you feeling less stressed now? Seeing such pretty flowers tends to have that effect but does it work on you?... Don't you remember what you promised to me...You should cherish your life instead of spending all that time in your work."

Before you respond, you look at the other Sinners here. Gekka and Thistle stood behind the Mentor. The latter mouthed, 'Sorry, I couldn't stop her,' while the former whispered in a hushed tone, 'I couldn't stop her either! She instantly knocked me out!' 

Your face cringed in disbelief, seeing your expression the Mentor had an amusing smirk and leaned in closer to the point of being able to devour your lips right there but she stood with a sultry smile and whispered in your ear loud enough so that everyone could hear.

"Do you not like it? Would you want something more frisky then? What about the opportunity to sleep and cuddle with the Mentor of the Garden doesn't that sound so tempting...Would you like the others to join too, we're all quite fond of you after all."

Her eyes stared greedily at your perplexed face as if she gained pleasure by this act of intimacy.

"...There's no need for that, and even if we could all fit in my bed, there wouldn't be enough blankets to cover us all." You quickly replied, and now you start to regret your hasty response.

Coquelic hands soon descended onto your shoulders, her crimson orbs right in your face and her haughty voice singing in your ears.

"So you won't refuse my offer...I thought you'd refuse. The Dear Chief of the MBCC surrounded by such pretty flowers I wonder how they'll react."

"Possibly they might chase me down the halls and cause mass destruction that I'll have to pay for." It was always chaotic during your days working here, especially Valentine's Day.

The Mentor smirked, "Why don't you use shackles to stop them? You've already shackled me and my flowers, at first, I find it bothersome but now it's soothing. It's akin to you being by my side forever."

You went silent upon hearing her confession.

"I won't use my shackles to force them to do something they don't want and especially won't use them on my dear Sinners in front of me.

Garofano softly smiled hearing this and responded with a slightly sultry tone in your ear.

"Is that so...Should I knit a blanket to cover the six of us on one bed? What about the positions? I'd rather hug his arms than his legs...You don't mind do you Chief?"

You blush to hear her words looking away in slight embarrassment. There was a satisfied look on Garofano's face as she gazed at your flustered face and a seeming sense of pride welled up into her expression.

Sumire's face concerted into conflict...Was she considering this?

"Well if he's offering...I can take the legs! Isn't being kicked while being asleep the most brutal way to train your senses and if it's the Chief...Ah, I can't wait...For him to kick me" Gekka fervently muttered.

You responded with a soft tone making some of the other Sinners soften up, "You don't need to do all of this just seeing you all here makes me happy...

"Garofano's gentle words and demeanor of being a loving stunning older sibling. Every time I accidentally damage my outfits I know you'll be there to help patch it up...Please keep on doting me, Miss Garofano!" 

The mentioned Garofano put on a light smile that encompassed the amount of joy she had for you and her hand pressed against your arms almost felt possessive.

"Sumire's loving smile...Always brightens my day every time you come to check on me and I enjoy your cooking every bite I take, I can feel the amount of warmth and passion you put into it." 

Sumire started to blush wickedly hearing this sense of confession and her hand started to grip the top of her shoulder as if you were the most precious thing which made your heart fluster.

"Thistle's burning smugness...I can count on you to protect me while being sassy and secretly caring about me...I can always count on you to warm up with your burning presence, I enjoy being with you." Thistle quickly cast her gaze elsewhere but she said something quiet enough for you to hear.

"Thank you...and I hate you too." 

You lightly snickered at her comment, you knew deep in your mind Thistle's affection towards you was like a burning fire one hot that might engulf you...Though you didn't mind if you were burnt a bit to save her.

"Gekkabijin's energetic nature...Even if you become the strongest, I'll stay to take care of you and please don't gift me any heads. I passed out because of you."

"I can't promise you anything but I'll gladly protect you for the rest of my life and after all of your wicked enemies are slain, I will get to enjoy you."

You nervously chuckled at Gekkabijin's words...Hopefully, she wouldn't kidnap you. Who are you kidding it had been a daily occurrence for you to be held captive and even had to take care of a hitman and make red bean soup for her. You wouldn't be surprised if Gekkabijin decided to take you on a Wednesday.

"And lastly Coquelic...I love how arrogant you are even though you act like you don't care about them I know you truly care for your flowers with such tenderness it makes me want to spoil you rotten until you bloom!"

To be honest you had no idea why you were saying passionate words about your Sinners maybe because you were kinda sleep sleep-deprived but nevertheless, you loved all of them.

Silence descended upon your room until a voice filled with that same arrogance you endeared pulled everyone out of their fluster.

"Everyone leave. Except for you Chief...Stay, I need to have a thorough chat with you and a lesson on proper manners!" Coquelic stared down at you with her usual haughty smile.

Sumire unlatched herself from you with a shaken smile but she still softly whispered in your ear, "Come visit me soon, I'll cook for you until you can't live without me." She left the room through the door with a wink in her eye.

Thistle let out a tsk and left but not without taking one of your pens from your desk...Possibly used to write in her diary and hopefully not to stab someone.

Garofano was prepared to depart but instead, she headed for your closet and took out one of your coats numbly as if she was used to the process of taking your clothes.

"Really? Right now?" You saw to her with bafflement. 

"Don't worry I'll return to you in about two business days. I have to sew it up from all the wear and tear."

"I was sure, it only took a couple of hours."

"Only because I didn't have any request to sew anything up and don't worry your pleasant-smelling coat is in good hands. Sweet dreams my dearest Chief."

"Huh." Garofano left before you could even question her motives.

Gekkabijin took a glance at you and in a flash rushed out laughing.

"Have fun!"

Now alone with the former Mentor of the Garden, you stared into her hungry eyes and said with the straightest face.

"Wanna snuggle together?"

You couldn't even get another word in as Coquelic suddenly grabbed you out of your chair and pushed you onto your bed.

"You said you want to spoil me rotten right then prove it." The sound of cloth flowing down onto the ground as Coquelic revealed her whole self to you. Her skin was silky smooth, her hair flowing wildly white and her eyes adorned with pure loving madness.

A maiden wretched with Mania, a Sinner who couldn't escape their past and their Path filled with bloody roses, corpses strung around her feet, flowers blooming to no end until her life ended but even in that suffering she found solace and that solace was you.

Warmth hit your lips as Coquelic suddenly pressed her lips against you and the scent of roses engulfed your entire being.

Her figure towering over yours and her mouth parting to say her last sentence before this moment of passion.

"I am never letting you go, my dear Chief!"

A/N: I am using this for my Coquelic summoning Ritual and sorry for not posting...Kinda wasn't in the mood for writing Path to Nowhere for like 3 Months.

Chapter Text

In the cafeteria of the MBCC, many individuals were moving around and getting their food.

The staff was pumping out meals as if their lives depended on them, and most Sinners indulged in such cuisines.

An individual dressed fashionably in a golden crimson button shirt and a black cape lined with black is seated at one of the cafeteria tables, staring at his plate of food.

His dark green sunglasses were hiding his eyes, and he sighed at his dish of braised pork, steamed fish, scrambled egg with tomato, and tofu veggie soup.

Oh, how Levy missed white truffle, baked lobster, steamed egg with sea urchin, wagyu tenderloin...Nevertheless, he imaged the pork turning into a lobster, the fish suddenly becoming an urchin, and eggs magically turning into Wagyu.

It was a trick he learned to force himself to eat this cheap stuff all to keep his perfect body...Gotta sell those automatic gym machines somehow. 

Still eating alone was quite boring most of the time he would have a fellow brother of a Sinner to accompany him since most of the others were kinda obsessed over their Chief and crazy, bad for business.

...Well he couldn't blame them since Chief has that type of feeling or aura that wants you to get closer and just open up to him along with being fun to mess with. Too bad Chief isn't naive enough otherwise he could have sold him most of his products like a RGB showerhead.

'When you need a shower, do it with style!'

Moving on, his usual eating buddies who were busy with their usual errands or just plain right sleeping (He would too with the crazy s*it happening in the MBCC).

Mr. Fox is a swell guy to talk but he can be dull sometimes to talk to especially when the sudden topic of Law comes out...Man can Judge all he wants with his mouth but he ain't stopping my business!

Demon well he doesn't talk much but when he does it is usually short sentences about what he reads although one time there was a moment when he busted out laughing hearing Demon say the phrase "Why do these Kids keep on calling me Uncle."

'Welcome to the club of being an Uncle...But I am still a "Nephew."'

His sudden rambling stopped as footsteps reached his ears. Levy looked up from his plate to see a girl covered in a black robe adorned with white spikes the same color as her pale skin and hair.

"Oh, I didn't expect the Grim Ripper of Sinners to be here? Are you here for business or something else? If it's business I may have some products you might enjoy...Would a RGB showerhead interest you?"

NOX's eyes stared at the fur-covered Sinner with a blank expression ignoring his and asked with a deadish tone.

"May I sit here?"

"Are you going to stab me if I refuse?"

"...No."

Levy was about to reject her for her poor buying sense immediately but he noticed her holding a plate of food and her usual grayish pale face had a human flush to it.

'Wait this could be an opportunity to mess with my dear Chief of an Uncle!'

"Sure I was feeling lonely anyway! Welcome to the Levy table, so what brings you here Miss NOX?" He smiled a toothy grin toward the Grim Reaper.

Hearing his agreement NOX sat in front of the fur-capped wearing Sinner and silently stared at her food.

"Not hunger? The meals are somewhat dull but they do get the job done or is it because you can't eat at all, Miss Grim Reaper?" Levy asked while shoving a piece of fish into his gaping mouth.

The pale lady took a fork and prodded at her meal of black beans, rice, and a healthy scoop of steak. 

"I simply don't have the appetite to consume this but He advised me to live my life as a human and properly eat...I don't want to disappoint him." She muttered.

Levy put a hand on his chin and nodded, "I see...That's Chief for you always striving to help us even though most of us are unredeemable, what a nice man indeed if only he would stay longer to work out with me! Anyway If you're having trouble eating, I have a simple trick that can solve all your problems for 100,000 Discoins."

"I'll refuse...He told me to refuse any deals coming from Sinners who wore fur coats, a fedora, and a bunny mask." NOX then pulled out a piece of paper and continued reading. 

"They're very cunning so be careful not to buy anything from them unless it's your Dear Chief who wants to prevent them from taking advantage of those who don't have any experience in these types of situations.  

PS. Love you NOX  (╹ꇴ◠) Don't go scaring anyone! 

Another Note: I am not buying your all-in-one Gym Machine, Levy. Also, if you try to do anything to my Dear Sinners, I will revoke your funds and never work out with you!"

The Grim Reaper quickly folded up the note into her pocket with the usual blank expression but if the Chief was here he would have seen a smile on the Grim Reaper's face.

Levy laughed manically hearing NOX's words with that dullish tone and his face morphed into a grin.

"Damn it, Chief...Always moving one step ahead of me. Fine, I'll give it to you for free since I am a kind and reasonable businessman who wouldn't want his precious customers to go broke! All you have to do is think of something you enjoy eating or you could close your eyes and imagine it to be completely different. That doesn't work what about a moment that resonated with your heart?"

NOX stared at her plate and closed her eyes. 

She then dug her fork into the steak and cut into it with her knife, the sensation was familiar to how she freed those lost souls with her blade. Each swing bisects into a Corrupter's body and minces them into little pieces.

'Death was their only destination but even that can bring peace from the Abyss'

The steak went into her mouth, but Amber (NOX) still tasted nothing. Instead, it tasted like a foul sensation of death and the whaling of souls. Nevertheless, she swallowed it into her stomach like a void.

"How was it? Did it work?" Levy asked while downing his plate of food.

NOX responded quietly, "Terrible."

"It usually works...Is there anything else you can think of? Like a moment of solace, you enjoy when your heart beats faster than ever or a moment you fell in love with someone especially if it's with the Chief." 

Levy gave his advice to NOX, and definitely not to find anything embarrassing about the Chief of the MBCC who kept on cutting his victims. He meant customers from doing business.

Once NOX tried again, she started to devour the plate of food like a hungry child and her face had a peachy hue to it once she finished.

"If you don't mind telling me, what did you imagine? I am not trying to probe you I swear." Levy put up a convincing smile.

'Nah I definitely am!'

"I thought of the time when he held me in his arms as we watched the Sunset...The way he smiled, the way he talked...I wanted to be there forever, to stay at his side forever even if Death takes me. I am willing to roam the Earth and into Hell all for him." NOX confessed with a dull tone but even Levy could sense the amount of affection and obsession in there for the Chief.

'The Chief charm strikes again...It even works on Sinners who bring Death and Destruction. Keep on charming them Chief like catnip so I don't have to deal with them, sometimes crazy customers are the worst bank...But wouldn't that impede my fun with the Chief? It'll be fine I'll borrow him when I have the time!'

"How very romantic...You should keep on sharing I heard that revealing your true feelings will make what you desire come true." Under the table, he held out his phone making sure to take note of everything NOX spurted out.

'They're so easy to trick like fishing a fish in a barrel' Levy wickedly thought in his mind

"..."

"Come on you can trust me, I am the pinnacle of an honest businessman many can vouch for me." He gestured his finger into the symbol of an Ok and winked at the pale Sinner.

"Are you sure about that Mr. Levy? There's a track record of you blackmailing, scamming, branching contracts, and swindling many of your clients."

A smug voice reached Levy's ears and he immediately turned around.

"Well, well what a beauty you are! I can tell from your voice! What's your name miss? Nice coat as well it seems familiar?" Levy let out a "smile" toward the purplish-haired lady and a remarkable white flower adorned on her neck attached to the Hush's black-wrapped nape. 

A new Sinner arrived at Levy's lunch table and it had to be HER!

"Call me Shalom...Little Businessman. Though I am quite sure we meant approximately five hours ago when you immediately ran away from me the moment I was close to four meters from your position...It wounded me beyond belief, am I that scary to you?"

'Ah f*ck me it's the "Pokemon" Master...The most scariest Sinner of all time. The type of woman to manipulate your entire family, grandparents, and even ancestors to fight over a rusty sword and then smile innocently as if she were simply a spectator.'

"Sorry if it seemed like that I was in a hurry to watch my favorite streamer, didn't want to miss out on that but enough talking about me. What's a fancy lady like you doing here at this humble man's table with his...Pale-skinned friend?" Levy quickly shifted the topic.

"No need for that like I told you before call me Shalom and the reason I am here is because I happened to hear an interesting topic you don't mind if I join do you." Shalom quickly seated herself at the table not caring one bit about the answer

"There's no problem if you join." Levy chuckled

'I do mind! Please get away, I don't want to be a Pokemon!'

"What about you Miss NOX," Shalom asked toward the pale Sinner.

"I don't mind." The Sinner replied with a head of agreement.

"Wonderful, I am glad to able to join such a conversation about eating delicious food isn't that right Levy."

"Sort of...I was explaining a trick on how to eat a dish you don't particularly like." Levy quickly explained.

"May I learn this trick of yours?" She flashed that "Smile" of hers toward him...His spine quietly shivered, normally he would be thrilled at a pretty lady showing such an expression but Shalom was quite frankly a Monster...A Monster of Logic that is. 

Being in Eastside for so long you tend to hear and see things in the shadow of that rich city. Don't get involved with Paradosis unless you want to become a pawn and secondly don't cross paths with Hush (Shalom).

"Sure...Firstly." As he started explaining to the smiling Sinner his mind raced to possibilities to escape the situation.

Levy knew the only way to deal with this Paradeisos' Monster was to draw the attention to Chief here...Most of the Sinners in the MBCC saw the Chief in a positive (Some more than others) and that included Shalom which he witnessed...And damn a Monster in love was the scariest thing he saw but the least dangerous one for now.

'It takes about a five-minute walk from the Chief's office to the cafeteria, but if anyone comes up to initiate a conversation with him, it'll take much longer. From his room to the cafeteria, it's about 10 minutes, and the same conditions apply. 

If the Chief is usually working overnight he'll wake up at 11 AM to 1 PM and arrive to grab something to eat...

From the time I was speaking with NOX, he hadn't arrived yet so that must mean he's in his room plus the time he has to freshen up and the distance of the walk would mean I have to stall Hush for about fifteen minutes or more until the Chief arrives to break me out and bingo I am free. 

This plan entirely depends on any other Sinner that doesn't take Chief away meaning...What am I thinking I have a phone!'

Shalom listened intently to Levy's words of advice but in her mind, she had a single thought.

'Should I tell him that he could walk away from this...Oh well, I wonder what expression he sees me.'

She listened along not bothering to address the furious tapping of buttons under the table and smiled toward NOX.

...

You wake up to the sound of light breathing on your chest and the scent of flowers still lingers in your nose. The soft sheets of your bed surrounded you and your snuggling partner.

Her body latched onto your chest tightly holding you in place as if it never wanted to let you go. Her hands and legs wrapped around you in a snug warm blanket of desire.

Your hand reached out to her flowery white head and the sensation of fluff lingered on the surface of your skin.

"Your awake aren't you Coquelic." You called out in a whisper.

Crimson pupils immediately awakened and she pouted at your actions but she didn't swat at your hand patting at her lush head.

"How did you know? My breathing should have been perfect enough to trick you!"

"Your lips curled up into a smile for a split second when I touched your head...Simple isn't it." You gave her a cheeky smile.

Her cheeks turned a hue similar to her eyes, but she flashed an alluring smile toward your face, matching your smugness.

"I didn't think the Chief was so obsessed with me?" She teased.

"Well, who wouldn't be obsessed with the dearest Garden of the Mentor...With the face of a lovely cat, and a smile that makes you want to squeeze their cheeks. How would I not want to be madly in love with splendid Coquelic."

The Sinner was silent for a moment before replying in a sultry tone.

"If you don't stop talking with that tongue of yours I might get the wrong ideas and keep you here forever with me!"

You pulled your hand from her lush white head and replied to her dismay.

"You were already trying to do that wouldn't you, Coquelic? Was it because she came to visit the MBCC...The timing is suspicious, isn't it? When Shalom decided to show up, you and the Garden appeared in my room to make me forget about her didn't my dear Mentor."

Coquelic smiled as if she was caught, hand in the cookie jar.

"That's what I love and hate about you. So cunning and crafty but still kind enough to fulfill my desire of spending time with you."

"Love you too." You quickly got off your bed and moved throughout the room grabbing the necessary things to head back to the office and then go get some lunch.

"You know my reasons why I particularly dislike, Hush," Coquelic stated while wrapped around your blanket missing your warmth.

You walked over to your closet and pulled out a classic gray coat then responded.

"I was told from both sides. Shalom orchestrated a plan to get into a situation where she could use your power and ability as a Sinner by "capturing" your flowers to get involved with another scheme of hers in the process you had to watch over me from BR-002. Thank you for protecting me by the way."

"It was nothing to watch over a "child" like you. A very heavy sleeper aren't you, I had to stare at your face for months but I don't mind your sleeping face is quite a treat I could look at all day."

"Thank you, I like staring at you as well and your barely covered clothes...Is it appropriate to be wearing clear white panties in broad daylight where everyone is watching?"

"Does it look like I care about what others think of me...I only care about what you think of me." Coquelic whispered that the last part though you heard her words.

"Well, my opinion of you is quite high, Coquelic...I enjoy your presence so keep on visiting me." You stated and closed your closet. The familiar sensation of cloth hit your back as it covered that part of your body. Your steps inch closer to the door but before you could her voice reached out to you.

"Chief." A sense of vulnerability was apparent in her voice.

"Yes?" You answer back.

"Do you regret saving me?"

"Do I regret saving an assassin who wanted to sacrifice themselves for their 'flowers' to end my life? No, I don't regret it...If I was suddenly put in the same position when we first met I would gladly risk my life to save you again but maybe given how much better I know you, sweet-talking you is in the realm of possibility."

Coquelic quickly looked away from your eyes and dug herself further into your bed possibly embarrassed by your response.

"I'll be leaving now. My room is always open to you if decide to ambush me again." You waved goodbye and soon departed.

...

Coquelic wrapped herself in his bed memorizing the scent of his sheets and her heart beating faster than it could ever be.

The Mentor Of the Garden was in love...In love with a Fool but she loved that Fool to bits.

Fierce heat wrapped against her as she covered herself.

She felt a liquid drip down onto her thighs.

'Not again!'

Coquelic was gonna have to secretly change his bedsheets now.

... 

You open the door and leave your room into the gray halls of the MBCC just in time for your phone to start rapidly ringing.

Levy: Chief Help Cafeteria Pokemon Master Here Trying to Stall.

Levy: Please Help Won't Try to Sell Product For 3 Months If Help.

It seemed Shalom was in the cafeteria what a coincidence...It was like she knew your entire schedule(Which she definitely knew!).

You picked up the pace toward the cafeteria, you had to save your "Nephew", a troublesome "Nephew" who lives life for the thrill of fun but in the face of Shalom that facade immediately broke.

Your experience with her was quite foggy you had the sense of familiarity coming from Shalom, and a couple of run-ins with her led to talking about various topics including what your favorite records were, the type of books you read, and how many heartbeats you had...Strange but not out of the ordinary.

The reason Levy called Shalom a Pokemon Master was because of one single incident...The game where you capture monsters in Pokeball was a popular trend during that time and you had one single conversation with her.

"Oh Shalom, do you want to become a Trainer too?"

"It sounds fun. How can I become one?"

"Let me think... First of all, you have to love your Pokemon, and then..."

The next day she had several Sinners following her shouting.

"Miss Shalom, we are forever loyal to you!"

"We will always love you, Miss Shalom!"

You looked in silenced horror at the type of misunderstood monster you unleashed...Sinner A and Sinner B will be missed for their service.

Getting out of your thoughts your legs and feet started to burn from the constant running you were almost there until a Sinner stopped you.

A woman dressed in a black trench coat covering her legs and her face covered by the lower half of an Oni-Mask. Her eyes sharply stared at you but in those golden pupils of hers, endless affection was peering toward your figure all behind her masked face.

Rahu was one of your Sinners who at first disliked you and highly aggressive but you warmed up to her by involving yourself in certain events and investigations you even got to swindle Paradeisos with her...You almost got shot in that.

Seeing that she was blocking your way to the cafeteria, it must have been Shalom who set this up to prevent but what purpose would that illusive Shalom want from blocking you to save your "Nephew"?

You gather your thoughts and had a form of enlightenment piercing your mind. Shalom...Wanted to mess with you. In every interaction you had with her, she was always trying to rouse up a reaction from you like a few weeks ago when she started appearing out of nowhere to scare you...

Her face smiling wickedly, you might have accidentally made her sadist especially when spoked you in your own room.

To get passed Rahu you had to use your words and you had many to tell her.

"Rahu, what a splendid coincidence meeting you here. Are you headed to the cafeteria as well? It's been a long time since I last saw you! How have you been." You greeted her with a smile to ease her.

"Long time? We met three days ago." She roughly said to you.

"Well, I just missed you following me in the shadows and watching over me. You should come to visit more often, we could watch a movie together or take a walk on the beach just the two of us."

The Masked Sinner's face quivered for a moment before regaining her stoic look and standing tall against your devilish words.

"I know what you're trying to do."

"Is it working?" You grinned.

"Not yet...Maybe if you come closer it'll work."

And so that's what you did. You stood right in front of Rahu and faced her. Her presence was akin to an impassable wall but even the hardest of stones will crack.

Your arms wrapped around her covered body and brought into a tight hug. In response to the sudden gesture of affection, she acted in kind and followed the same gesture to the point of almost crushing you.

"I wasn't lying when I said I missed you. So will you let me pass if we let's say have some tea together all by ourselves, just you and me alone in a room sipping on hot tea, what do you say?" You say into her ear.

Rahu unlatched one hand revealing her face and you got a proper smile on her face.

"You're the Chief of the MBCC, yet you're doing such things... Have you no shame?" She teased you.

"I don't have any shame when it comes to hugging and spending time with you."

She let go of your hug and pushed your figure forward in the direction of the cafeteria.

"Just go already before I change my mind about keeping you here permanently."

"Thank you I won't forget your service and whatever you use for your hair I like it." You ran passed Rahu not minding her expression of pure elation.

"Nephew I am coming!"

...

On the side of the hall.

"Hecate did you just witness that?" The beanie-wearing Sinner Hella asked.

"I did."

"Do you feel anything?"

"...I want to be hugged like that." Hecate boldly said.

"Same...Wait! I mean...I didn't say anything. Why would I want to hug the Chief it's not like he's warm and so cozy in his arms... Hecate ignore what I said to you."

"Okay...I won't tell a Soul."

"Thank you...We should follow him to make sure that Dummy Chief isn't gonna do anything dangerous..."

"Oh, you kiddos plan on following him too."

"BABWBBABWBW." Hella suddenly screamed at the voice.

A green-haired woman dressed in white walked up to the two with an outfit that fitted the wearer of "fit for a poet"

"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you like that...But why are you still backing away from me." The Poet Raven asked the girl.

"Get away from me! I refuse to hear any of your poems...Hecate we're friends right, please let me use you as a buddy shield. I don't want to be stuck in a room with her ever again!" Hella hid behind Hecate using her body as cover.

The Poet's expression shifted as if she was deeply offended, "My verses aren't that bad plus Chief hasn't approved me teaching kids like you how to write poems or analyze them since they're not quite caught up on literacy and languages. So you don't have to worry about hearing my poems...I'd rather do that right in his face when Chief is around."

"Of course you would! Why are you here anyways shouldn't you be lazing around in your room." Hella shouted.

"Shouldn't you be skipping your classes instead of following our adorable Chief!" Raven fired back.

"Me and Hecate were just walking along until we spotted Chief hugging Rahu and then he ran off into the cafeteria shouting "Nephew I am coming!" Knowing him he's about to do something dangerous we were about to follow him until you sneaked up to us."

"Yeah and you screamed so loud, I could feel my ears pop. if only you put that much energy into learning you would have been the next me."

"I don't want to be the next you!"

"True. I guess I'll have to pass it to Crache."

"You were planning to follow Chief as well, Miss Raven." Hecate finally spoke and stated.

"Miss Raven...What manners You have, dear student. If only some of my students could adopt such a manner. To answer your question I owe him a great amount of debt so I have to "pay" it off and I can't have him getting hurt now can I."

"Isn't it the opposite when an individual who you owe is hurt? Also isn't the salary of a teacher abysmal low how are you going to pay off your so-called debt?" Hella muttered.

"Grow up you'll understand what I mean." The Poet let out a sly smile and winked at Hella.

Hella took a moment to digest Raven's words until her face shifted into a disgruntled face of disgust while Hecate tilted her head in confusion.

"Bah! You vixen trying to gun for our Chief right in front of us!"

"Hella does she mean she intends to take Chief." Hecate coldly states her eyes glaring at the so-called Poet.

"Hey, Hey, Hey no need to stare at me like I am a piece of trash...I was going to follow Chief and ask for an outing. Pay him back by reciting my poems and odes to my dear Chief all at once then give him something extra...Take him out to dinner for a lifetime who knows maybe I'll have the chance to embrace him." Raven softly announced, the air around her seemingly shifted into a dramatic one

"What did Chief do to warrant this behavior?" Hecate questioned with a firm gaze.

"He bought my heart and shackled me into his entire being...Ah, even now I can feel his voice calling out to me and faintly saying "I love you." Oh, how I yearn for his touch." 

Hecate and Hella slowly stepped back from Raven's words and could even feel the desire emanating from her tone.

"Damn it Chief! Why are the crazy ones always after you." Hella yelped.

"Hahahahha..." Raven's face shifted into a grin watching their horrified expression.

"I was just messing with you two...10% of those things are something I wouldn't do anyways it was nice talking to you both, I have a Chief to catch up with."

For a Poet always lazing around she ran like the wind and left the two Sinners in a daze.

"I...really want a hug from him now."

...

"Very interesting so you're implying if I image a scene or a thing to replace the tasteless food it'll instead have the sensation of having flavor." 

Shalom asked with a usual smile, the air around her made her very approachable but to Levy she was just trouble and the definition of it.

"Exactly."

"I see very well I'll try your method." 

Shalom picked up her fork and gracefully took a bite. Certain scenes soon filled her eyes and one particular brought an alluring smile to her face.

...

"Chief is there any reason you always hug me whenever I visit? I quite enjoy it but I didn't expect this gesture from you." Shalom asked her Dear Chief seated in his office and writing away.

"I just felt like it...Sometimes I don't need Logic and Reason for all my actions I wanted to hug you plus you looked like you needed one." He quickly answered with a smile and continued with his work.

"...Thank you then you don't mind if I do this right." She leaned toward his chest feeling the subtle warmth emitting from his presence.

"Shalom?"

"Don't worry I am just counting your heartbeats...Very soothing..........." Shalom's movement stopped to a halt as the comfy atmosphere slowly dozed her to sleep.

"Did you just really fall asleep on my chest?..." His voice echoed as the memory soon ended.

......

Levy grinned back at the smiling Hush but in his mind, he was having second thoughts.

'That smile could kill a person and hopefully isn't me still got a life of joy and pleasure to chase...Chief I wonder where you are it's been years(minutes) since I was seated here with my new Friend NOX and about to be murderer Shalom.'

His thoughts were quickly interrupted as a familiar voice entered his ears and the pressure of sitting near Hush disappeared.

"Sorry, I am late...Hey NOX, Levy...Why are you running away?"

"Streamer!" Levy shouted as he bolted out of the cafeteria with a maniac laugh.

You lightly chuckled at the shrinking figure of Levy running further away and sat down. You soon turned to NOX and let out a smile.

"Amber..." Before you could say another word she got up from her seat and appeared right next to you.

A soft cold sensation touched your cheeks and an ethereal voice whispered into your ears sending a shiver down your spine.

"I'll be waiting for you."

Amber left quickly leaving you soon alone with Shalom. 

Shalom's smiling expression remained the same, even unaffected by NOX's display of affection toward you, and she spoke her piece.

"I'll get straight to the point, Chief...Would you like to visit my home at Erica Villa? You can stay there as long as you like, treat it like a vacation and a place where you can relax where I'll be with you." 

Shalom's tone was filled with innocence and familiarity as if you were an old friend which was a casual invention to her home abode. Her usual facade of a smile seemed more genuine when facing you and her eyes glowed with color as she gazed into yours.

"I am touched but with my schedule, I don't think I can make it. Sorry." You told her.

"No need to apologize for something out of your control...I'll just make time out of your schedule for you by some other means." Her face shifted into a mischievous grin and a singular finger poked your cheek to tease you.

"Please don't go threatening anyone or anything related to my workload. Instead of that why not...Hang out at my office again you can fall asleep on my chest again while I work."

Her smile faltered for a second before going back to its usual movement.

"You really know how to convince a Sinner like me."

"Well, you are my Sinner, and it's my responsibility to care for you."

Shalom let out a light chuckle and asked, "Do you care about your Sinners because of your profession or because of your personal feelings?"

"You already know the answer, Shalom...I love every single one of my Sinners dearly and that includes you too."

The Sinner silently stared into your eyes and her mouth curled up into a sultry grin. Her hand reached onto your cheek gently as if you were her only possession.

"I expected you to say that but hearing those words come out of your mouth...I don't know how to describe it but I want to have the image of you burned in my mind so please...Don't ever leave me."

"I won't I'll be your Chief as long as I can..."

"Good...Though Chief I wondered if it was a good idea to say you loved every single one of your Sinners out loud in an area full of Sinners that deeply cherish you."

You turned your head and saw many of the familiar Sinners you see every day staring at Shalom with Envy and at you with overwhelming fondness.

*Click*

The sound of a camera snapped as Shalom took a picture of your shocked expression.

"That face of yours is adorable...I'll make sure to pin this to my ceiling so I can wake up to you every day."

Your head turned back to the smiling Shalom and asked one singular question with a crooked smile.

"You planned this whole thing out, didn't you...Just to get a reaction from me. You planted Rahu to lower my guard and used Levy as bait to lure me here all for this?"

*Click*

Another photo was taken of your expression and Shalom's lips let out a single word.

"Guess?"

Shalom stood up from her seat and gave you one last smile before leaving. She put up her index finger onto her lips.

'Hush'

You sat silently on the lunch table and pondered to yourself...How did it get to this point? At least you can enjoy your lunch.

"Chief is it true what you said...You don't mind if I write your words down right."

A poet's cocky smile reflected off your eyes and she soon sat next to you.

"Say Chief...You don't mind if I take you out right?"

It seemed a Raven decided to descend onto you and was about to "murder" you.