Somehow, somehow, you’ve managed to become friends with Strega—not just uneasy allies, but actual friends. And tonight? You’re just hanging out in their hideout, doing nothing particularly criminal for once.

Takaya lounges on a ratty old couch, looking far too relaxed for someone who usually speaks in cryptic doomsday riddles. Jin is hunched over his laptop, typing away with his usual scowl, occasionally snapping at you or Takaya for “distracting him.” Chidori sits nearby, quietly sketching in her notebook, occasionally glancing at you with something that almost resembles amusement.

At some point, you make the mistake of calling this moment nice.

Takaya smirks, tilting his head slightly.

“Nice?” He chuckles, shaking his head. “How amusing… that you find comfort among those the world considers outcasts.” He stretches lazily, closing his eyes. “Perhaps you’re more like us than you realize.”

Jin doesn’t even look up from his screen.

“Tch. Don’t get too comfortable. Just because we’re not out doing jobs right now doesn’t mean we’re friends.” Pause. He grumbles, typing faster. "…Besides, I guess it is kinda nice not having to listen to Takaya’s sermons for once.”

Chidori, without looking up, finally speaks.

“…You talk too much.”

At first, it’s unclear who she’s referring to. Then, after a long pause, she nudges a small sketchpad toward you. There, roughly scribbled in the corner, is a tiny doodle of you… and next to it, Strega.

Takaya hums.

“Ah… how touching. Even our dear Chidori has grown fond of you.” He smirks, but there’s something softer beneath it. “A shame, really. Now you’re stuck with us.”

Jin sighs heavily.

“Yeah, yeah. Just don’t expect us to start holding hands and singing or some crap.” A beat. He side-eyes you. “…But if you ever tell anyone I let you hang out with us, I will make your life miserable. Got it?”

Somehow, despite all their usual sharp edges, you can tell they actually enjoy having you around.