Capenna-Center: Diluc ~ Thursday 8/26/4173

Diluc sat at the iron garden table outside the small cafe. He leafed through the paper again, weeks old now, and stared at the headline. Missing Ravenhurst Runaway Presumed Dead in Junkyard Fire. It was odd. Reading about his life from the outside perspective, you’d think his old life was the dream. They wouldn’t know the half of it. He remarked to himself and folded the page back into his bag. 

After escaping the flames alongside Nakul and Gnash, Dilus had spent the weeks crashing in the abandoned warehouse they called home. Despite the rough living, the siblings were kind and good company all things considered. I had taken Diluc a few days to work up the courage to do much of anything. Sore, tired and emotionally confused as he was, he’d made the decision to head ‘topside’ and explore the streets of the american sky city. It was truly massive, split into several massive districts, the smallest of them able to swallow the entirety of Ravenhurst. Capenna-Center lay in the middle of them all, and it was here that Diluc emerged from the subway stairs into the bustling streets. The sun was bright, reflecting off the mirror-like glass of the buildings that towered over them. Air trams and vehicles whirred by.

He’d found his way to a quieter part of the business part of town. Sitting down at a cafe and flipping through the laminated menu left on the table. A few other patrons sat enjoying their mornings, talking, laughing. It felt strange to see normalcy after the horror of his weekend a week ago. But he was so glad to see life continued to exist in the face of it all.

“Hey! Sorry for taking so long to get to ya! I’m,--- and I’ll be your server today! What can I get started for ya?” Asked the cheerful vulkitbuck. He fumbled to tie his apron behind him. He’d spoken so fast, Diluc hadn't really caught his name.

“It’s all good.” Diluc returned the smile. 

He ordered a dark roast and watched the server disappear into the shop. He returned a little while later with Diluc’s order and it was clear he was trying his best not to look frazzled.

“Are you alright? You seem distressed.” Diluc lifted the mug.

The buck seemed torn between an answer before he sighed in agreement. “My landlord is a monster and I'm a little worried about the rent hike she’s got coming next week. Sorry to bother ya with it, I know it's unprofessional and all.” He waved his hands to accentuate himself and sighed again.

“Are apartments here expensive?” Diluc asked. “I’m new to the area and haven’t really had the chance to look into them yet.”

“Not terribly, well, it depends on where. Closer you get to all the clubs and fancier places the more expensive. I’m over by the Skybridge to District West so it’s less expensive but…” he grimaced. “Get whatcha’ pay for, ya know?” He shrugged.

“Any place you’d recommend, or I guess, recommend I should avoid?” Diluc flipped open his wallet and pulled a few bills to cover his order and tip.

The ‘buck thought for a moment. “Honestly it just depends on what you’re looking for and your budget. But Greenstreet property? Avoid at all cost. They’re scum.” He chortled, flipping the shaggy fur of his ears behind his shoulder. He padded off to the next table, just as friendly.

Diluc read through the job listings on the little device Gnash had picked up for him. She hadn’t disclosed how she came into ownership of it, but Diluc had learned it better not to ask. She was sweet, once you got past her abrasive and cocky exterior. And he appreciated the effort she and Nakul went through to rescue and house him. He wanted to return the favor if he could, and figured a job was the first step. They probably wouldn’t want to move out of the undercity, what with Nakul being a wanted criminal and all. But at the very least he may be able to provide some kind of help, even if it was just a few warm meals a week.

The vulkitbuck returned about a half hour later. Gently tapping his yellow claw-tipped fingers against Diluc’s shoulder for his attention.

“Hey, uh, weird question but like,” he combed his fingers through his white ponytail, “Would you wanna, I dunno, hang out? Sometime? Nothing like, weird I promise! I just figured, ya know, you said you were new and all aaand… yeah. Sorta been there, done that. Figured I could help out. Maybe. You can say no though, it’s cool.” He stammered over his words so quickly it took Diluc a second to catch what he meant.

“Oh! Uh, sure. That’s a very kind offer, thank you.” he replied.

“Cool, cool, cool! Uhm, care to chat? I guess?” The vulkit flushed and his speckled tail swayed behind him.

Dilluc let out a laugh and nodded. He pushed away the chair across the table to offer him a seat. The other ‘buck hesitated, before looking into the shop and taking the seat. They talked for a few hours. Some about their respective home lives, mostly about nothing in particular. Diluc noticed the anxiety ease as they talked. This other ’buck seemed friendly enough, but then so had the humans over Dublin. He kept on his guard despite the cordial talk. Unwilling to repeat past mistakes.

“Well, I’ve gotta head to job number two.” He held up 2 fingers and smiled pensively. “If you're ever looking for a cozy drinking spot I bartend at the Rib Cage over on Dodge and Clearwater avenue.”

“I’ll keep that in mind, thank you.” Diluc wasn’t ready to go for drinks just yet.

“Yeah, it was great talking to ya! I’ll see you around.” He held out his hand, but shuffled between a high five, a fist bump and hand shake. 

They went their separate ways and Diluc thought about their conversations. He imagined the up-beat vulkitbuck would make a great friend and wondered if they’d in fact bump into each other again someday. He let his mind wander as he walked. What would it be like starting life over in this new city? A job came first, then an apartment, that. That was certain. Then maybe friends. And when he finally felt like his guard could drop a little more, maybe then he could trust himself to go for drinks at a pub again. When he made it back to the warehouse and flopped onto the broken recliner he told Gnash about his day.

“Aww, you’re making friends! How cute.” She squealed and let her whip thin tail fall onto his face.

Diluc chuckled and batted it away. “It was just a simple chat with a local. You saw where that got me last time. I’m just thankful I made it back.”

“Don’t worry so much. This district is Moth territory. We keep out for our own ‘round here.” She said. Gnash slid off the back of the couch, landing with her feet in Diluc’s lap. 

He noticed the somber tone of her smile and mentioned it. “You alright, Gnash?”

She shrugged. “Nah. Just gonna be weird not having you around. That’s all.”

He quirked his brow and waited for her to explain

“It's just,” she stretched to avoid making eye contact, “A lot of the ones we rescue go straight back to their families. You’re the first one that’s wanted to stick around. We don’t make a lot of friends out here. Doing what we do.”

“I don’t need friends.” Nakul grumbled from the loft dryly.

“That’s why you’re sad.” Gnash teased back in the same dreary tone. “See what I mean?” She smirked back at Diluc. Pulling her feet off of him she flipped herself upright and bent forward.

“Well I’m not leaving just yet. I’m in need of a job first.”

She nodded. She may have been smiling but the 3 weeks he’d known her made him keenly aware that it was a mask. Gnash was usually one who’s emotions were loud. She wore every one of them proudly, whether they be ugly or not. But they were the truth of her heart and he admired it. Wished he’d had a bit of that drive back home. She was saving face for his sake, and he wanted her to know he didn’t need it.

“I still plan to help. But I think we can all agree I’m not cut out for this kind of work.” he began.

“Yep.” Nakul called from the loft.

Diluc lobbed a pillow in his direction while Gnash laughed. “What I’m trying to say if brother dearest will be so kind as to let me, is I can’t help the way you do. So I’m going to try another way. I can be somebody topside for information. Place to crash when it gets too dangerous down here.”

“Yeah, yeah. Save your pansy talk.” Gnash shoved him by his shoulder. “How’s about we go grab dinner? Talk about literally anything else?”

Diuc tipped his head. “With what? I’ve only a five pound note left that the exchange machine wouldn’t take.”

Gnash flashed him a wry grin. “Paycheck came in.” She reached into her shirt and handed him a folded wad of paper notes. “Here’s your cut.”

Diluc stared at the money. “What? But I didn’t do anything-”

“Take the money.” Nakul hollered from the loft again. He was in feral, as usual. And let his head hang back over the ledge, one hooved foreleg raised as he rolled on his side to look down at him.

“We’d’ve both eaten lead for a last meal if you hadn’t gone back for that flare.” Gnash spoke sincerely. 

“We’ve managed on less. Don’t worry about us, newbie.” Nakul yawned.

“Thank you.” Diluc accepted the cash, unsure what to think.

“Put it towards the next person. Helping out, yadda yadda.” Nakul rolled over and out of sight.

Diluc looked between the two of them a moment. Not sure what to say or do to properly express his gratitude.

“Now! Food. Yes? Less’ goo!” Gnash said enthusiastically as she jumped to her feet and grabbed for her coat near the door.

On Friday, Diluc arrived at the shabby office of a tall apartment complex bright and early. It dawned on him that he was maybe a little overdressed when the property manager shuffled out in a gaudy display. 

“Goodluck in there, dear. It’s a warzone.” She patted his chest and shoved the little approval folder in his hand on her way out.

Diluc caught the swinging door and looked up through the frosted glass, stained yellow by years of nicotine exposure. Inside an argument could be heard between a pleading tennant and the matter-of-fact tone of the landlord.

“You’ve gotta give me a few more days, please! It’s been slow as shit at the bar! You know I make my money on tips-”

“And you know your rent was due monday. If you don’t have it, it’s a late fee. You have a week to pay rent and the fee or you have to leave. That’s how it works in the real world, honey.” The landlady said dismissively, waving her hand and turning back to her computer.

On the other side of her desk, the vulkitbuck from last week stood dejectedly. His shoulders sagged as he dwindled.

“You know I’m not gonna make that money. I have nowhere to go.” He said, trying one last time to plead his case.

The landlady swiveled in her chair and heaved a great sigh. Rubbing her eyes under her cat-eye glasses. “And I  feel for you, honey. I really do, but my hands are tied. We all need money. That’s why I don’t let people stay for free.” He eyes spotted Diluc standing awkwardly in the center of the office and she perked up.

“Oh! Sorry sir, didn’t see you there! Are you here to sign for the apartment?” She glanced up at the vulkitbuck awkwardly.

He raised his arms in defeat. When he turned around and spotted Diluc he froze. A moment of recollection crossed his face. 

Diluc waved to him and offered a pleasant hello, apologizing for the interruption.

“Not at all, baby. In fact the current tenants here and he can show us to the unit.” The landlady pawed a set of glossy red nails in the direction of the other ‘buck and meandered to Diluc for a hand shake.

Diluc looked from her to the other ‘buck, who seemed resigned to his fate. “Uh, sure.”

He followed the other ‘buck out of the office and up the long flight of stairs to the unit. The landlady carried on about the scenic view and the many benefits to the building. At the door the ‘buck unlocked and opened the door. He waved them through, eyes on the ground. Diluc caught the door, just above his head and nodded. The other ‘buck looked at him a little confused but let himself in.

It was small but cozy, no doubt due to the efforts the vulkitbuck had done to decorate and furnish the space. The sitting room was sizable with a large floor to ceiling window and balcony. The kitchen was tight, but well maintained. 2 bedrooms, one of which contained an assortment of boxes, and a bathroom. 

“So, what do we think? Obviously the tenant is still here but we can get you moved in next week.” the landlady beamed up at Dluc.

But his gaze followed the other ‘buck who had taken to filling a box with things from his bedroom.

“Could I meet with you in the office to discuss things further?” Diluc asked.

The landlady agreed and toddled out gleefully. Diluc followed her down the steps to the office. After their discussion Diluc made his way back up to the apartment, paperwork in hand to break the news.

He stepped into the narrow hall and rapped his knuckles against the doorframe. The ‘buck answered sheepishly and startled when he saw him.

“Oh! Hey, sorry about that, …” He let out a hoarse laugh.

“I hope I'm not imposing or anything but-” Diluc started holding up the paper in his hand.

“No, no. It’s ok. I’m ok. Just, ya know,” He waved to the walls, “packing up now.”

“Yeah, sorry to have you go through the trouble, friend.” Diluc pulled out the neatly folded paper and slipped it into the other ‘buck’s hands. “She wanted me to deliver this to you.”

He smiled sadly and flipped it open with a quiet thanks. And when he looked inside he gasped and clapped a hand over his mouth. Looking up at Diluc bewildered.

“What the fuck?” he shook his head. “Sorry that was rude of me, but really what the fuck??” He glanced down at the paper again, still not making sense of it.

Diluc shrugged. He was beginning to feel that awkward edge return to his jaw. “Look, I promised friends I’d use the money to help people. The original plan was for me to get a place yeah, but- I couldn’t rightfully boot you from yours.”

The other ‘buck stared at the zero balance on the receipt and took a shaky inhale. “So like, you looking for favors in return or something, because-”

“No! No no! I’m not-” Diluc flushed and cleared his throat. “It was refreshing to talk with you last week. You didn’t need to do that. It just felt like the right thing to do.”

“You’re name’s Diluc, right?” Something about the way he said his name was strange.

Diluc nodded.

“I’m Nestu. Not… sure if you remember. I-I’ll give you a good recommendation for another unit.” 

“Thanks but, turns out they can’t lease without my ID on file anyway.” Diluc chuckled. That had been a glaring oversight on his part. 

Netsu nodded. And he looked up at him for a moment before speaking again.

“Hey, Diluc.”

“Yeah?”

“How do you feel about roommates? I uhm.. I have a ton of boxes I need to move first, but,” Netsu shrugged. “Just an idea.”

Diluc smiled at him. “I’ll think about it. Say, are you free today? Now that you're packing’s done maybe you could show me around?”

Netsu nodded excitedly. “Hell yeah! Oh! What kind of food do you like? I know this awesome little ramen shop down by Galway Park that is so good!”

Nearing mid October, Diluc lay sprawled on the couch flipping through his phone when Netsu stomped into the sitting room.

“SIR!” he shouted, pulling the phone away from Diluc’s face.

Diluc lifted a brow.

“Were you ever going to tell me you were the dead rich kid from the news?” Netsu shoved his own phone screen into his friend’s face. There he was, a younger Diluc stood beside his father in the photo.

Diluc sat up, and gave Netsu a stern look. He thought his answer over carefully.

“No.”

“What?!”

“I wasn’t going to tell you. Or anyone really.”

“Why?!” Netsu flailed his hands.

“Because I’m not going back.” He said it calmly.

Netsu quietly regarded his new friend. Taking a seat on the couch he pressed his palms together, fingers tapping his chin. “But you had money.” He directed his fingers to Diluc.

“I had a lot of things, yes.” Diluc rolled his eyes. “But I didn’t have autonomy. Or the choice to do what I loved or be who I wanted.” He’d spent a long time since the escape thinking about this. About what he’d ever say to someone who found out.

Netsu looked at him then. His blue eyes softened at the edges. “I get it.”

“Do you?” 

“When I lived in the Nakamura Prefecture I kinda was parent number three for my younger siblings. My parents are great, don’t get me wrong, but 11 kids is a lot. I knew if I stayed I’d kinda always be parent number three. And especially now that my older sisters are having kids?? I’d be a sworn babysitter for life. That’s why I moved here. Well, that and my ex, but that’s another story.” He batted a hand at the thought.

“You won’t tell anyone, will you?” Diluc asked. “If my father realizes I’m here he’s liable to send the constable for me. Or worse, come to retrieve me himself.” Diluc shivered at the thought of his father’s dour face.

“Nah, But I'm definitely telling Aoi I live with a dead guy.” Netsu perked up.

Diluc furrowed his brow.

“Ok, Ok, fine. How about a ghost then? Can I say I have the ghost of a dead guy in the apartment?”

Diluc allowed himself a laugh. “Yes, that is acceptable.”

“Cool.” Netsu reclined on his arm of the couch. “So, any news on the job front, dead boi?”

Diluc snorted as he followed Netsu’s lead. “Not yet. Got a second interview at that club.”

“Bartending?”

“Mhm. Might see if they want me to do live entertainment on the weekends. They’re looking for bands.”

“Rad. I can teach you a few things if you wanna stop by the Rib Cage tomorrow.” He said.

“Noted.” Diluc settled into the couch. 

As they did most nights, they talked late into the evening and made plans for their next life steps. Netsu was still hung up on getting a bigger apartment so Gnash could move in. The three of them had become an unlikely trio. But Diluc wouldn’t have it any other way. They came to be his anchor when the seas of his mind wouldn't rest, and he hoped to return that debt.