#and the way they stand on first meeting then always beside each other. crowley is offcentre in the last one bc aziraphale would usually be | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

irrevocableloves · 8 months

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violent delights

twilight rewrite! edward cullen x fem!witch!reader

chapter four: regret

previous chapter ౨ৎ masterlist ౨ৎ chapter five

summary: with edward's coldness, all she thinks is why he would save her? why didn't save himself all of this regret?

warnings: angst

words: 2.2k

Diamonds. It was as if thousands of tiny diamonds illuminated my vision. The prickles of light left me blinded once I opened my eyes, but once it settled, it was almost intoxicating. The view in front of me mostly. Edward Cullen. He looked almost ashamed. As if the thousands of diamonds that scattered around his pale, porcelain skin was one to be ashamed of. I thought of it as rather beautiful.

I yearned for him. For his touch. I felt myself inching closer to him, feeling entranced by the shining crystals that embodied him. Even as I walked closer, he felt farther than ever, refusing to meet my eye-line.

"Edward." I said softly, reaching out for his hand.

His touch was no longer ice. It was cold, but it melted within your touch as if I was the fire, his fire.

Once I closed my eyes, wanting to take in the feeling of his touch, I felt rain. Trickles of it touching my skin, rather than the warm heat of rare Forks sun.

Edward was no longer in front of me. No longer a shining crystal in front of the warm sun rays. Instead, he was across from me, on the other end of the parking lot shooting burning glares towards me. I couldn't bring myself to look away. Not even when the screeching sounds of tires had rushed its way towards me, not even when I saw him rush towards me in a millisecond. My eyes never left him even when his gaze turned from harsh to soft as he pushed the van backwards, hearing the crunch of both my car and the van.

His eyes. Even in the dull light, they shined the same golden topaz.

I woke in the middle of the night longing for another gaze in his eyes.

Once I entered the school grounds, I found myself to be the center of the school's attention for the rest of that month. Tyler Crowley wouldn't leave me be, even after I insisted time and time again that not even a scratch was left behind from the accident, but he remained just a step behind you almost the entire day of school... everyday... He walked, no, followed me to classes and joined my crowded lunch table, always trying to squish himself between Angela and I before ultimately giving up and seating himself next to Mike. Mike and Eric seemed like less of a fan of Tyler than I was, making it clear in their expressions that he was unwelcomed.

I didn't bother to ask anyone about Edward's position as the hero in the accident. I didn't need him to despise me even more than he already did. No one else saw it as a miracle like I did, rather they shrugged it off, assuming Edward had been beside me the entire time. Even Tyler convinced himself that he'd seen Edward. But, I knew better than that.

I wondered to myself why no one else had seen him standing so far away, when I realized... no one else was as aware of Edward as I always was. No one else watched him the way I did. Edward was never surrounded by the crowds of curious bystanders like I was. People avoided him at all costs. Unlike me, who people saw as the prize of the school for whatever reason. It disgusted me, but I let it be. I knew from the first time I'd come back from visiting my mom in California after she moved that I was seen as 'different'. The first clue was the pale Forks residents who, for some reason, enjoyed joking about how I was the tannest of them all, comparing skin tones at any chance they could get. Once I got into high school, I noticed how the boys looked at me. I was different, but in a good way to them, like I was a shiny new toy at the beginning of each semester. I hated it. The Cullens and the Hales on the other hand, sat at the same table and kept to themselves. None of them even bothered to look towards me anymore, not even Edward, which left an unsettling twinge in my heart. I didn't know him, not really. I knew it shouldn't hurt as much as it does, rather I should be far more annoyed, but I couldn't help the pull I felt towards him...

It had been a full week since I had spoken to him. I wanted to, but I couldn't bring myself to speak to him first, not when he put a wall between us, sitting as far as he could from me in Biology. Whenever I sat, he never turned to look my way, instead he scooted himself away, leaving an uncomfortable distance between us. I couldn't help but look over at him. I watched as his golden eyes grew darker as the days passed. It was embarrassing how perceptive I was of him when I knew that he couldn't even stand being in the same vicinity as me. I was absolutely miserable and it didn't help that the dreams continued.

Mike seemed chippier as each day passed, noticing the obvious coldness between Edward and I. Everyday before class, he sat beside me, blabbing about nonsense that was too quick for me to comprehend or even bother to listen to. I felt bad for him, of course, I knew that he had a crush on me ever since I'd spoken to him for the first time in third grade when he'd just moved to Forks. I guess he took that as me confessing my 'undying love' for him.

Jessica, the one who did have some sort of looming love towards Mike, had expressed her worries of asking him to the girl's choice spring dance that was in two weeks, the first Tuesday of March.

I didn't have the heart to tell her that Mike already tried asking me, but I was too distracted with Edward and the slight smirk that appeared when he heard Mike's question. So instead I pretended to not hear him at all and each time he tried to speak with me alone I'd come up with some sort of excuse to get out of it.

"Are you sure you don't mind?" I almost gagged at Jessica's question.

"Jess. You know I don't like him, okay? He's all yours. I promise."

"Soooo, who're planning on going with?"

"Ummm Angela?" I wasn't too much of a fan of dates, not like I've actually been on one.

"Booo! No! I'm forcing Angela to ask Ben! She's been drooling over him since Middle school." Jessica was silent until she mumbled, "What about Edward?"

I froze from just the mention of his name.

"What about him?" I pretended to sound disinterested, but it was really the looming depression from just the thought of Edward Cullen.

"He's like obsessed with you, Y/N!"

"I really don't think he is..." I left it at that.

The next day, Jessica's mood had seemed to match my own. She was silent during our walks between classes, even lunch. I didn't have the heart to ask her why because I knew that if it was Mike that had turned her down, I would be the last person she would want to tell.

During lunch, I could feel the tension between Mike and Jessica as they sat as far as possible from one another at lunch. As if that wasn't enough proof, Mike had gone up to me in Biology as per usual, informing me that Jessica had asked him.

"Oh my god, Mike! That's great! You'll have so much fun with Jess!" I perked up a lot more than usual, hoping he would get the hint.

"Well, I-uh-ummm... I told her I'd think about it," he mumbled, looking down at his hands, fiddling with his fingers.

"Really, Mike? You know how much she likes you..." I didn't want to hear it from him. I was tired of him.

"I was wondering if... well, if you might be planning to ask me." And there it was. My reaction was halted, seeing Edward tilting his head in my direction from the corner of my eye.

"Mike,” I sighed. “Tell her yes."

"Did you already ask someone?" I couldn’t help but notice his quick glance towards Edward.

"No, but I don't think that's any of your business."

That seemed to have done the trick. He was a stuttering mess.

"Give Jess an answer, Mike. It's not fair to her."

"Yeah, you're right," he mumbled, turning away and walking back to his seat, defeated.

I wanted more than anything to be able to run out of the classroom and save myself from anymore embarrassment. I felt guilty for Mike, of course. Even after years of having to console his feelings, I couldn't help but feel like there was something wrong with me. But, I was exhausted. I didn't like him. Maybe there was something wrong with me when I'd rather yearn for a simple eye contact with someone who could hardly stand me than say yes to a boy who's sought after me for years.

That was when I felt his eyes on me. I looked back, quickly turning away. I can't give into him again, I won't.

I felt ridiculous. I couldn't believe the rush of emotions flowing through me, all because he'd looked at me. It was pathetic of me. There I was rejecting a boy who was over the moon for me and here I was shaking from meeting the eyes of Edward Cullen.

"Y/N?" He whispered. Don't give in.

Moments of silence reached the two of you. I still felt his stares, saw them in the corner of my eye.

"I'm sorry." The sincerity surprised me. I looked towards him before he continued on. "I know I've been rude... But it's for the best. It's better if we're not friends."

I didn't dare meet his eyes after what he said.

"Too bad you couldn't figure that out earlier. Would've saved you a lot of regret." I didn't know what came over me, where I'd even come up with the confidence to say any of this. But, I was angry.

"Regret?"

"You should've just let that stupid van crush me." He looked at me in disbelief, then sadness, to which turned into something else, was it anger?

"You think I regret saving your life?"

"I know you do. Why else would you act like this?" I snapped.

"Well, you don't know anything."

This time, I was the one to leave him there with his thoughts. As soon as the bell rang, I pushed through the students, trying hard to not let any tears fall.

It was impossible to read him. Did he not regret it? Was his efforts to ignore you, but failing, giving in, did it mean something to him? Did he too have this obsession with wanting to know me? Why was it, even after the multiple affairs of his coldness towards me, I wanted to know him? No matter how much it hurt me.

During gym, I had the ultimate pleasure of rejecting two other boys who asked me to the girls' choice dance while I panted and sweat during the mile run. After the awkward refusals, I got dressed and headed out to my car in the lot.

Once I was in, my distractions had gotten the better of me. There he was again. Edward was walking towards his silver Volvo two rows down from me. I shamelessly stared. What was meant to be a stare of annoyance, turned into one of admiration. He was effortlessly gorgeous.

Before I knew it, a line had already formed to get out of the lot, Edward’s car in line just a few feet from my own, so I slipped in just behind him.

A minute had gone by, just waiting behind him. I had the urge to honk, even hit him. But, I’d rather not cause a scene just for the hell of it. Through my annoyance and forced patience, I heard a knock on my window. On my left was Tyler Crowley.

What I expected to be another fit of apologies once I turned down the window was instead the quite opposite.

“Hey, Tyler.” I said blankly. I shoved my head out the window to see what the hold up was.

“Hey! I’m done with apologies, I swear,” he laughed. “I just wanted to ask you something while we’re trapped here.”

Oh, no.

“Will you ask me to the spring dance?” You’re kidding.

“Will I?” I scoffed.

“Well yeah! It’s girls’ choice!” He had to be joking.

“Not really my choice if you’re asking me?”

“Oh! Well uh-only if-only if you wanted to?” he stuttered.

“Sorry. No, Tyler. I’m going with friends.”

“Man, I was hoping you were just letting Mike down easy.”

“No, sorry.”

“Well! If you change your mind? And there’s also prom?” I nodded at him in response and he finally proceeded towards his car, awfully excited after a rejection.

Finally, Edward’s family piled into his car and from his rearview mirror, Edward’s eyes were on mine. Instead of the cold look he normally shot at me, his eyes were scrunched up and his body was shaking. Was he really laughing at me? It took all the strength in my body to not slam my foot into the gas pedal and leave a dent in his car like his hand did with mine.

next chapter

a/n: this chapter is kinda boringgg but BLOOD TYPE NEXT MY FAVVVV !!!

#violent delights #edward cullen #edward cullen x reader #edward cullen x y/n #edward cullen x you #twilight #twilight fanfiction #robert pattinson #robert pattinson x reader #twilight rewrite #violent delights fanfiction #violent delights fanfic

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superbsaturn · 9 months

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Like Real People Do [Ineffable Bureaucracy] (1/2)

Summary: Gabriel and Beelzebub had run into one another a handful of times over the last 6,000 years that they had been the lead representative of their respective domains. However, when they begin to meet outside of the usual context of-- well --war, an interesting development in their relationship begins to take place that they attempt to understand and navigate together. In other words: 5 + 1: 5 times Gabriel and Beelzebub meet in canon (extended), and 1 time they meet away from the viewers' eyes. The title of this fic and its chapters come from the song "Like Real People Do" by Hozier (honestly, my favorite Hozier song). AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/49196800

Link to Part 2: https://www.tumblr.com/superbsaturn/726061659061420032/like-real-people-do-ineffable-bureaucracy-22

3/6: We Should Just Kiss

4 Years Ago; Tadfield Air Base - Armageddon

Despite the clear sky a bolt of lightning crashed to Earth causing the attention of everyone at the Tadfield Air Base to turn their head to witness as the Supreme Archangel Gabriel appeared behind the smoke and lightning. Beside him, the ground sizzled, cracked, and split open as Lord Beelzebub emerged from the pits of Hell, scoffing at the unpleasant glance Gabriel cast towards them. Both the Chiefs of their respective Forces disregarded each other and stepped forward, taking in the disaster before them.

Gabriel and Beelzebub walked past Aziraphale and Crowley as the angel and demon glanced at each other in bewilderment before Crowley was the first to speak as the powerful duo turned around. “Lord Beelzebub, what an honor,” he said with an air of sarcasm as he bowed down.

“Crowley, the traitor,” they stated matter-of-factly, only for Crowley to lean back up from his bow and sigh.

“That’s not a nice word,” he said.

Beelzebub rolled their eyes. “All the other words I have for you are worse.” They paused for a second before declaring an answer, “Where’sss the boy?” Their speech reflecting that of a fly as their irritation with the incompetent demon grew larger.

Crowley answered by nodding to the soon-to-be former Antichrist, Adam, which Gabriel was the first to notice.

As he pointed his finger to Adam and began his approach he offered a faux grin while he proclaimed, “That one. Adam Young.” Beelzebub trailed right behind him as he leaned closer to the young boy, almost looming over him. “Hi. Young man… Armageddon must… restart. Right now,” Gabriel condescendingly explained, using his hands to exemplify the importance behind his words. “A temporary inconvenience cannot get in the way of the greater good,” Gabriel said.

Beelzebub soon follows up Gabriel’s statements with one of their own and the already annoyed Archangel could only roll his eyes at the interruption. He clenched his fist to ground his annoyance before standing straight as Beelzebub spoke.

“As to what it stands in the way of, that has yet to be decided,” they said. Everyone that surrounded them- well, minus Sargent Shadwell -was stunned at the insolence at the Prince of Hell’s statement, and their following declaration did not help their case. “But the battle must be decided now, boy. That isss…,” they paused, their eyes closing in frustration for only a moment, “your destiny. It is written. Now start the war.” Their final sentence was annunciated, as though they were speaking to an incompetent child and not the current Antichrist.

Some back and forth went on between them all, Aziraphale and Crowley now getting involved in the conversation. Both Beelzebub and Gabriel were gradually getting more frustrated, though Beelzebub always seems to be so, and lately so has Gabriel.

In a final act of desperation, Gabriel taps Beelzebub on the shoulder. “Can I just–?” he asks while turning his back to Adam and the others, motioning for Beelzebub to follow behind him. The two of them step away from the group, gaining some privacy in the open space of the Air Base while Gabriel leans forward so that he is face-to-face with Beelzebub. “Um… I’m going to need to talk to… Head Office,” he says while pointing to the sky. He pauses for a moment, “How I am supposed to get 10 million angels to stand down from their war footing is– It doesn’t bear thinking about.” The annoyance and, perhaps even a bit of horror at the thought of having to return to heaven and tell his angels that no war was happening, was palpable.

“You should try to get 10 million demons to put down their weapons and get back to work,” Beelzebub said, looking back at Gabriel with a look of both equal understanding and a plea for non-existent help, though it didn't last longer than a fraction of a second if that.

Still, with a shared look of understanding between the two of them, they came to a sort of agreement. They ended to get away from here and fast before things worsened.

After scolding the failed Antichrist once more, and a threat to tell Satan himself, the Archangel and Grand Duke vanished into thin air, and while everyone around them had assumed they returned to their home base- so to say -the two had actually reappeared just outside the gates St. James Park where Gabriel frequently visited to jog.

“What a bloody disaster!” Beelzebub exclaimed, groaning a sigh of frustration.

Both of the ethereal beings walked into the park, finding a nearby bench to sit at, the opposing demon and angel leaning as far from each other as the bench physically allowed. There was nothing more to be said about this utter failure of a Great Plan. Instead, the two allowed themselves to sit in a peaceful- albeit, negatively charged -silence. They knew that they were only attempting to draw out the inevitable hell that awaited them both (for Beelzebub both literally and figuratively).

It was hard enough to manage the conundrum the two were facing internally, forget about the fact that they’d have to return and manage the conundrum of thoughts- millions! -of angels and demons who were bloodthirsty and ready for battle. The Commander-in-Chiefs didn’t even want to take the time to think about it.

Instead, Gabriel observed the mortal humans who were roaming the park, watching as some fed the ducks bread. ‘They should really be feeding them frozen peas instead,’ he thought to himself. It wasn’t until a fly flew past his field of view that he turned his attention to the demon beside him, who was currently very focused on observing their flies as a form of distraction.

Gabriel watched Beelzebub intently, taking in their features and memorizing as much as he can. He’d done this a thousand times to thousands of both ethereal and mortal beings, but Beelzebub’s appearance was… different, it was unique in his eyes. This wasn’t nearly the first time the demon and angel had crossed paths. They’d both been the respective representatives of Heaven and Hell individually, they were bound to cross paths throughout the years. However, this was the first time Gabriel had ever been given the opportunity to observe their appearance up close. Sure, he’d seen them many times, he’d even examined them from head to toe on multiple occasions, but this meeting was different.

This was more intimate, more personal. It was the first time that the Prince of Hell and the Supreme Archangel actually chose to be in the presence of one another’s company with no strings attached. No threats of war, no scheming, no sly agreements, nothing of the sort. Just silence before the storm. And Gabriel could do nothing but appreciate the Grand Duke’s style. From their uniquely designed hat to the sash that crossed over their body. Everything they wore seemed meticulously chosen and perfectly matched with everything else, and Gabriel was a stickler for tailored and pristine clothing.

It wasn’t until over an hour had passed before they finally decided that enough was enough and they’d have to head back. No words besides Beelzebub’s frustrated buzzing and silent curses were spoken between the angel and demon, but none had to be. Enough was said in the shared silence that not even words could do justice to the emotions that the angel and demon had bottled up inside. It was all said through stolen glances and hidden quirks (such as Gabriel’s needless fidgeting with the lapel of his suit or the flap of the fly on Beelzebub’s hat that only seemed to happen when their frustration would reach a boiling point).

It was as if they knew time was up. They looked at each other simultaneously with a look of acknowledgment before both dissipated into smokes of purple and green. With a brief look of agitation that lasted only a second, their expressions turned to the stone-cold appearance that the Commander-in-Cheifs carried when preparing for battle. In the darkest pit of Hell and the brightest peak of Heaven, angels and demons alike roared in anger at the knowledge that no war was to happen just yet.

3 Years Ago; Kафе in Russia - 1 ½ Years After Armagedidn’t

Gabriel had arrived at the agreed meeting spot as soon as the clock struck 8:05, the agreed meeting time between him and the Grand Duke of Hell. He waited somewhat patiently, occupying his hands by cleaning the nonexistent dirt from beneath his fingernails. He only looked up as he saw an unfamiliar figure take the seat across from him.

“You can’t sit there,” he said with a tone of voice that could only be described as surprise at the audacity of this stranger. He pointed his finger vaguely at the seat that the stranger had just occupied. “I’m waiting for someone.”

“You’re waiting for me,” the stranger replied with a tilt of their head and a self-assured attitude.

Gabriel furrowed his brows and replied, “I don’t think so,” as if it was the most obvious reply in the world- and for him it was.

The stranger, annoyed with the back and forth at this point, shook their head before explaining, “New face. I had the old one for 6,000 years. I just thought it was time for a change.” As they continued their explanation Gabriel only began to get more and more confused. He didn’t know who this was, and for Heaven’s sake why was Beelzebub so damn late. This meeting was their decision in the first place.

“I don’t know who you are.” At this point, Gabriel’s patience was running thin and if this stranger didn’t leave the table within the next two minutes he was close to striking them down with lightning.

“Come on, it’s me!” They exclaimed, but still, Gabriel was not taking the hint despite the very obvious hat and clothing that should have given them away. “Beelzebub, Lord of the Flies,” they finally admitted, and instead of simply offering Gabriel that as enough explanation, they went a step further. “Watch.” Gabriel’s eyes narrowed as he observed them, watching as a fly left their mouth and flew just past him, buzzing along the way. “There you go.”

Gabriel shook his head a bit, as if clearing his thoughts, before asking, “Why did you want to meet me here?”

Beelzebub was quick to answer. “Well, if we’re gonna have background talks, they can’t be in either of our home territories.”

“And what do we need to discuss?” Gabriel asked in return, a look of skepticism spread across his face, as though he didn’t want to be here- and while that was partially true, it was not because he didn’t enjoy Beelzebub’s company.

“Arma-bloody-geddon. That was a complete and utter pain in the ass,” they said. Gabriel could only roll his eyes at the painful reminder of it.

“I know, but we are ready for round two,” he was quick to inform the Prince of Hell.

“As are we,” Beelzebub replied, though that was certainly far from the truth. “Utterly ready. Armageddon, here we come.”

“Arma-bloody-geddon,” Gabriel said, mimicking Beelzebub’s earlier phrase. “Arma-bloody-geddon.” It didn’t sound quite right coming out of Gabriel, he gave a half-hearted smile, shaking his head and sticking his tongue out. “Blah.” He chuckled softly and Beelzebub couldn’t help but crack a smile. That was until Gabriel said, “Well, you lost.”

“So did you,” they replied factually.

“No, we didn’t.”

“Well, you didn’t win.”

Gabriel couldn’t deny that. “Tell me about it,” he said, leaning forward, “Everyone in Heaven is all like, ‘Well, your the commander-in-chief, can’t you just make the war happen anyways?’ Like, I make the rules,” he said, an air of annoyance laced in his tone.

Beelzebub scoffed in disbelief, leaning forward onto the table. “That’s exactly what my lot is said.”

“Well, it’s good to know there is someone who understands. Thank you,” he said genuinely, giving them a small smile and a nod. Beelzebub returned his nod with one of their own. “It’s a pity we’ll never speak again,” he finished, standing up as the words left his mouth.

He only got about a step away from the table before Beelzebub reached out and grabbed his sleeve. They cleared their throat, a twinge of embarrassment passing over them. “Uh, actually… um,” they groaned, frustrated with themselves. Gabriel gave them a look of bewilderment. They sighed, taking a non-existent deep breath. “Can you actually, um. Damnit, can you stay for just a bit longer?”

Gabriel’s eyebrows were quick to jump up in surprise.

Beelzebub cleared their throat, letting go of Gabriel’s sleeve and looking away. “Nevermind. Ignore me, that was stupid.” They were just about to make themselves disappear, not caring if any mortal being saw when Gabriel was quick to interject.

“No no, I don’t mind staying at all. Truthfully it’s nice to get out of Heaven once in a while, their constant nagging can be utterly infuriating at times,” Gabriel said, sitting back at the table across from Beelzebub.

“Oh, you’ve got no idea. The demons in Hell can never shut up, always coming to me for the most trivial things, as if I have all the answers in the world. I’m the bloody Prince of Hell, not the Almighty Herself.” Beelzebub huffed a sigh before meeting eyes with Gabriel. They’d known the Supreme Archangel had vibrant eyes, but they’d never seen it this up close before- or perhaps they just never previously paid attention during their prior interactions.

Gabriel’s chuckle was the only thing to draw them back into the moment. “Fair enough, as much as the angels in Heaven can get under my skin with their nagging, I suppose it must be worse in Hell.” Though it hadn’t been said directly it was clear that Hell wasn’t as orderly as Heaven had been, at least when the nagging occurred to Gabriel it was one at a time, he didn’t think Beelzebub got that same luxury. They most certainly did not.

“Do you ever wish someone would just tell you that you’re doing a good job?” Beelzebub asked suddenly, breaking Gabriel’s train of thought at the abrupt question. He hadn’t been prepared for a Beelzebub to admit something so vulnerable, and while it wasn’t a direct admission to wanting that to be said, the desire was evidently present.

Gabriel took his time processing Beelzebub’s question, formulating a genuine answer. If they were comfortable being this vulnerable with him it was only right for him to offer an answer in the same vain. He leaned forward, his elbows holding himself up on the table as he folded his hands and rested his chin upon it. Beelzebub watched him attentively, observing as his violet eyes fluttered around the table as he tapped his foot. Though they hadn’t realized it a genuine smile spread across their face as they looked at him. The minute they realized that a smile crossed their face they wondered how often that had happened during their interactions without them having realized. They couldn’t help but internally cringe at their own embarrassment. This was not something they were used to, and yet it felt so natural.

The second Gabriel began to speak Beelzbub snapped out of their trance-like rapture. “Hmm, well, I have to admit that I’ve never thought of it before, but I also can’t say that now the idea of hearing it doesn’t make me desire the appreciation that is offered. I don’t know, I suppose now that I think of it I’ve never truly been acknowledged for my efforts by my subordinates. Rather, things are rather robotic in Heaven. I’m given a command by the Almighty, I perform it, and the routine continues. Truthfully, I think if I were told that I did a good job I’d probably worry something was wrong.” He couldn’t help but chuckle at the sad truth behind that statement, but now that he thought about it being told any form of affirmation would probably be rather gratifying for him.

Beelzebub continued to look at him with a brief expression of sadness. “I understand what you mean. I suppose it certainly would be strange, but I’d be lying if I said I don’t crave the acknowledgment every now and then. However, it is in a demons nature to lie so if anyone asks you didn’t hear it from me, Angel,” they said, playfully winking at Gabriel which made him offer a hearty laugh that Beelzebub couldn’t help but smile at, engraving the angelic sound of his laughter into their memory to remember forever.

These were certainly not emotions that the Lord of Flies had ever experienced before– they don’t believe they ever experienced any positive emotion before. This was certainly going to take them some time to get used to, but perhaps that was a dangerous game they were willing to play. Then again, after this meeting with Gabriel, they never intended to meet each other again so perhaps this truly was a one-time thing. They weren’t sure why exactly but they couldn’t help but feel disappointed at the thought alone.

Never seeing the Supreme Archangel was supposed to be a blessing, but for Beelzebub, the idea was beginning to feel like a horrid nightmare.

2 Years Ago; Bar in America - 2 ⅔ Years After Armagedidn’t

Despite Gabriel having been the one to set up this particular meeting in a bar located in the States, Beelzebub had been the first to arrive. They were ten minutes early, though they knew Gabriel would be punctual as always and arrive exactly on the discussed time, but for Beelzebub waiting a bit in silence was no problem for them rather it was a sort of blessing after all the chaos in Hell. They sat at a high-top table, their pinky raised in the air as one of their flies meandered around it. If the Prince of Hell could feel emotions they would claim that watching the fly around their finger made them feel a bit calm. Although this corporal body that they take the form of when on Earth seems to make the demon experience a lot more human-like ‘features’ than they had predicted.

Just as the thought crossed their mind, it vanished as Gabriel arrived at the arranged meeting time. “I have a proposal to make,” he declared as he took the seat opposite them, his hand pressed against his lower chest so that his tailored suit didn’t get caught on the table. “Instead of Armageddon, what about… no Armageddon?”

The idea made Beelzebub’s eyes widen ever so slightly as they took their hands off the table, sat up straight, and intertwined their fingers as they leaned forward, preparing their next words carefully. “An interesting proposal.” They watched as Gabriel gave a curt nod. “No Armaggedon,” they said, almost as if to confirm Gabriel’s words, to which he, yet again, gave another nod with a tight-lipped smile. Beelzebub contemplated for a second longer before shaking their head ever so slightly. “They won’t like that, though. Most of my demons live for Armageddon if you can call that living,” they explained, with a bit of an eye roll at their last statement.

Gabriel was quick to follow up. “Well, my angels too. But you can’t always get what you…” His eyes darted around the room for a second as he contemplated what to say next, “live for.”

Beelzebub thought seriously of the proposal, leaning closer to Gabriel on the table as they asked, “Advantages to no Armageddon?”

“We keep the status quo, static and, uh,” he hesitated, looking to the right before continuing, “quoey.”

Beelzebub looked around as if scoping out the bar to ensure there were no other demons or angels around, inching even closer to Gabriel to practically whisper their next words to him. “No one could ever know, of course.”

“Of course,” was Gabriel’s answer, spoken in a matter-of-fact tone. He was confident in his decision. “A deal?” He all but concluded, puffing his chest out a bit and leaning closer to Beelzebub, almost urging them to agree.

“Mm,” was Beelzebub’s reply, a nod of agreement that Gabriel returned.

For a moment the two sat in silence, save for the music that played throughout the bar in which Beelzebub was the first to recognize it. “I like this song,” they stated, relaxing their shoulders and leaning back a bit with a hint of a smile.

“Song?” Gabriel questioned, his knowledge of earthly matter being less than sub-par. He was glancing around the room, trying to determine what it was that Beelzebub had spotted as if there was a physical form of the ‘song’ that Beelzebub claimed to enjoy.

Beelzebub looked back at Gabriel as they explained, “The music that’s playing now.”

That only added to Gabriel’s confusion. “What music?”

Beelzebub tilted their head to the side, a bit shocked at Gabriel’s ignorance of his surroundings. “The noise.”

“That’s music?” he asked rhetorically, though he wouldn’t complain if they offered clarification. Instead, they only chuckled with an ever-growing smile.

The two paused for a bit until Beelzebub broke the silence once more. “I like it. Contains information in a tuneful way,” they said. Their next words were shared with Gabriel with a softer smile, their eyes glancing carefully at Gabriel’s face. “Everyday something is getting closer.”

Gabriel looked at them tentatively. He glanced off to the corner of the table, preparing his next words carefully. When he was ready to speak again he looked up at Beelzebub and declared, “Then, um… Then I also like it.” The genuine smile that he offered them made their non-existent breath hitch in their throat– although with their corporal body maybe it wasn’t so non-existent.

As the song continued to play both the Supreme Archangel and the Prince of Hell allowed themselves to indulge in mortal pleasures, bopping their heads back to the beat. Gabriel was tapping his leg to the song as Beelzebub fiddled with their thumbs. This continued until the song was finished, to which Beelzebub looked back at Gabriel and offered a small, soft chuckle that was quick to change to a contemplative look.

“So… agreement concluded,” they said which led Gabriel to adjust his posture and sit up straight. “No need to ever meet again, is there?” they asked, a hint of a smirk on their face. Despite their best interests a part of them knew that this would not be their last meeting. Gabriel felt the same, though he played along with their conclusion.

“None whatsoever.”

Despite meeting a conclusive conclusion, neither of them stood from the table. Instead, they continued to enjoy the music as it shifted songs, enjoying each other’s company in contemplative silence. Minutes passed by with only shared glances and slight smiles spoken between them, well, until Beelzebub’s curiosity got the better of them. They knew neither of them wanted to leave just yet, returning to their respective corners was less than desired at the moment.

So, Beelzebub spoke, glancing just above their shoulder to the table beside them. “Hmm, this is my first time at a bar with one of these green tables in the middle with the balls lined up in a triangle. What do you think it is? Want to give it a go?” Beelzebub asked.

Gabriel peered over at the table beside them, tilting his head as he examined it. “Ah, I believe it’s called a ‘pool table’, at least that’s what I’ve heard the humans refer to it as, but then again I’ve also heard it called something like a ‘billiards table’ so I’m not quite sure. But yes, I would love to learn how to utilize the table as well,” Gabriel answered, pushing the stool back to stand and offering his hand to Beelzebub.

“Angel, I think the proper phrase is ‘learn how to play’. It’s a game of some sort.”

Beelzebub took his hand, standing and joining him beside the table. As they did so they watched as Gabriel glanced around the room before walking over to a rack on the wall and pulling two sticks from it, as well as grabbing a blue box-like object. Gabriel had observed humans throughout their stay at the bar using the table and repeated their motion, rubbing the blue ‘stuff’-- chalk, he believes it was called --over the tip of the sticks– a cue, he thought --before handing one over to Beelzebub.

“Hmm, I see, well, let’s play then!”

Within a few minutes of the game, it became very obvious to Beelzebub that Gabriel was abnormally good at this game. He had made at least one of the solid-colored balls in during each round he played. “You must be cheating,” they declared, “You aren’t using miracles are you, Angel?”

Gabriel scoffed. “I wouldn’t dare waste the use of a miracle on something as trivial as this. I’m sorry to tell you this, Beelzebub, but you’re simply bad at this game,” Gabriel announced a shit-eating grin on his face.

A whole round had gone by and Beelzebub only managed to get a singular ball in a pocket.

Beelzebub huffed in defeat. “One more round, that was just beginners luck,” they said.

Gabriel let out a genuine laugh, rolling his eyes at Beelzebub’s insistence. “Whatever you say Beelzebub,” he replied, a chuckle in his tone.

Beelzebub missed two more shots with Gabriel haven’t missed a single one. The Prince of Hell huffed in annoyance and frustration, the cocky Archangel getting under their skin ever so slightly.

“Heh, you really should let me help you with this, Little Bee,” Gabriel offered with a slight chuckle. He leaned his back onto the table in which they had initially sat, crossing one leg over the other while he shoved his hands into his pockets.

‘This prick,’ Beelzebub thought as they heard Gabriel’s patronizing chuckle. They turned to him and froze for only a fraction of a second as they took in his posture and appearance, a slight heat rising to the palm of their hands. Finally, they asked, “Oh? How exactly do you intend to help me, Angel?” They crossed their arms with their cue held in their right hand, with the butt end of the cue planted firmly in the ground. Beelzebub’s eyes examined Gabriel as he leaned his own cue against the table he lounged on and approached them.

Gabriel says nothing in response to their question. Instead, he approaches Beelzebub and places his hand on their waist, turning them so that they faced the pool table. He moved so that his chest was right up against their back while he took their hands into his. Gabriel adjusts them on the pool cue so that they line up to where they’re supposed to be (at least, to where he’s had them placed). He looks down at Beelzebub as they look up and him with the initial heat they experienced flooding the rest of their body that left Gabriel unsure why they felt so warmed (although he chalked it up to the fact that they reside in Hell). As he finished aligning them he took a small step back, but not too far, his hand still against their waist.

“Now, aim the white ball at the yellow-striped one and gently but firmly let the stick glide against your fingers, and then bam you’ll be golden. Shouldn’t be too hard for you, oh Prince of Hell,” Gabriel instructs.

Beelzebub rolled their eyes at Gabriel’s stupid little nicknames for them. First his condescending ‘Little Bee’ that they knew he was only saying to get a rise out of them (and they were gonna be damned if they were going to reveal that to him). They do as Gabriel instructed and strikes the white ball. As the white ball rolls on the table and collides with the yellow striped ball, the yellow one rolls rapidly into the center-left pocket, making Beelzebub’s eyes go wide, shocked that they actually managed to get it in. They don’t, and never will know, that Gabriel performed an ever so slight miracle to ensure that the shot was made, despite his earlier statement about performing miracles on trivial matters.

After finishing this game, with the win going to Beelzebub, they agreed to play one more as a tie-breaker. Though it was much closer than the first game, Gabriel had won and Beelzebub was ever so slightly sulking at their loss. Gabriel found it amusing, poking fun at them for being a sore loser, but before they could even counter with an even snarkier comment they groaned as they were called back to Hell by Dagon. What a way to damper their mood.

“Excuse me, it seems I’m needed back in Hell,” Beelzebub explained to Gabriel, who glanced at the time. It had been just over two hours since he arrived.

Gabriel waved his hand, passively dismissing their pardon. “I should be getting back to Heaven now anyways, no need to worry. So long, Prince of Hell.”

Before Beelzebub could even process the words leaving their mouth, they said, “Until next time.” Walking out of the bar before vanishing instantly.

Gabriel chuckled, “Next time indeed,” he whispered to himself. He was prepared to follow after them before a thought crossed his mind and he approached the bartender. “Can I ask you a question, Sir?” Gabriel asked.

“Of course, what can I help you with?”

“Ah, um… The song that goes something like ‘Every day, it’s a-getting closer / Going faster than a rollercoaster’. What’s its name?” he asked, not even bothering to sing the lyrics that he remembered.

“Ahh, ‘Everyday’ by Buddy Holly is its name, Sir,” the bartender replied with a soft smile. “I saw you and your partner bopping along to it earlier. I’m glad you enjoy the music.”

“My partner?” Gabriel asked with a bewildered look.

The bartender panicked, “Ah, my apologies, I shouldn’t have assumed. Your friend, I meant.”

“Ah, I see. Anyways, thank you for the song name. I’ll be on my way, here, take this for your kindness,” Gabriel said, offering the bartender two crisp twenty-dollar bills as he walked out of the bar and vanished back into Heaven.

The bartender stared at the space Gabriel had occupied, shocked at Gabriel’s sudden disappearance, but they said nothing else and simply shoved the forty dollars into their pocket.

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dynamic-power · 7 months

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@justmori suggested a few prompts to me, and this one stuck out: Az and Crowley don't seem to drink wine together and talk about everything under the sun anymore. What happened?

And while I had completely intended to sit down and write an angsty little blurb, I ended up with this exploration of Az instead. Just a little look into the change in his relationship with Crowley between series 1 and 2.

My asks are always open, so drop in with prompts or opinions or just to say hi.

Words: 922

-----

After the end of the world was stopped, something changed. Aziraphale wasn’t exactly sure what it was, only that it had happened sometime between standing as a united front with a demon and the son of Satan and sitting in the Ritz for drinks with that same demon. Sans son of Satan, of course.

Before Armageddon, Aziraphale would expect to run in to Crowley every few decades or so. They would see each other, sometimes on purpose, and partake in shenanigans that neither were likely to report to their own domains. Often times, these meetings would end with a bottle or two of wine and discussions, ranging from philisophical and introspective to downright absurd.

Aziraphale never minded, of course. He rather enjoyed the time with the demon, though he never liked to think too much about that fact. Instead, he told himself it was because he and Crowley were of a kind; two timeless beings, alone and surrounded by humans, who were there and gone in a mere handful of decades. No one understood their unique situation better than each other.

But it always came about with alcohol. Inebriation, even for an angel and a demon, came with soothed nerves and loosened tongues. A bottle in and Aziraphale would complain about Heaven and Crowley would gripe about other demons. Two or three and they would talk about their shared appretiation for humans, their feelings surrounding their given tasks, and even their pasts.

Aziraphale felt vulnerable when he was in such a state, but around Crowley, it was accompanied by a sense of camraderie and safety. Despite his companion being a demon, Aziraphale felt comfortable around him in a way he’d never felt around another being in the entirety of his existence.

By the time the 20th century came around, he was able to admit that he looked forward to running into the demon. He always knew what the best bottles in his wine cellar were, always knew of the most exclusive up-and-coming restaurant, always prepared for the day that the demon would once again stumble into his life. And Crowley did. Increasingly often, and sometimes literally.

And then they had stopped the end of the world that Aziraphale loved so dearly, and suddenly Crowley wasn’t coming around every few decades, she was stopping in to the bookshop every few weeks.

He began coming round just to chat. Slowly, the chair beside Aziraphale’s became Crowley’s. An empty space on one of the shelves near the door remained empty for when Crowley came around and took off those blasted sunglasses. Azraphale got used to his phone ringing, not because of customers, but because Crowley was bored.

Alcohol became less of a tool for conversation and more of an indulgence as they got to know each other. Aziraphale found that they no longer needed that excuse of inebriation to talk, to be comfortable around one another.

It was on a sunny afternoon in May when Aziraphale realized just how deep his feelings about the demon ran.

He was sitting at his desk, sifting through a new first edition he’d managed to track down, when he looked up and to his left, where the two armchairs sat looking out the window. They were both empty; he prefered to do work from his desk, and Crowley hadn’t been around in a few days.

He missed him.

The reality of it hit Aziraphale hard enough that he sat back in his chair, momentarily forgetting about the book. He’d never properly missed anything a day in his life. The closest he’d ever come was Heaven. Sure, he thought it would be nice to be back in Heaven, but his bookshop was his home. His bookshop, where Crowley sometimes came by and put their glasses on that shelf and sat in the most bizarre position in that chair by the window and talked with him about everything and nothing and-

He missed him. Craved his presence more than he craved a good meal, yearned for his company in a way he hadn’t thought angels even could.

He’d gotten so used to the companionship, he realized, that it was noticable when there wasn’t another voice in the bookshop, snarking at him or harassing curious humans into leaving.

He wanted to be upset with himself; wanted to remind himself that it wasn’t safe to be this close to a demon, that these feelings were unnecessary or maybe even dangerous.

But he knew he couldn’t.

The front door flew open and Crowley stormed in, all flailing limbs and noisy energy. There was no hesitation or uncertainty in her movements as she plucked her glasses off and turned bright, shining, yellow eyes on Aziraphale.

Aziraphale couldn’t contain his smile, but he did shove down every emotion besides the contentment he felt at having this demonic presence again. Anything else could be examined later. Or maybe never. He had a duty to Heaven, after all.

“Hello, Angel,” Crowley drawled, flinging himself into his chair so that he was sitting on it sideways. They peered at Aziraphale from over their knees, waving a hand at the book on his desktop. “Whatcha’ got there?”

A first edition book he’d been trying to find for a century. “Nothing of importance, Crowley.” He turned in his chair, ignoring the book entirely and devoting all his attention to the demon and the sense of warm familiarity that settled over his shoulders. “Drink?”

“Nah. You know, I saw something the other day that made me think of you.”

“Did you now?”

#the relationship between crowly and aziraphale is something they don't have with anyone else #they see each other the most frequently #they have an understanding that humans and even demons in hell and angels in heaven don't have #and i think that should be explored more often #the feelings they have for one another are significant because they've probably never felt them before #they've never had anyone who knows them quite so intensely #and i'm gonna stop rambling now #good omens #aziraphale #crowley #ineffable husbands #aziracrow #genderfluid crowley #all pronouns for crowley #dyno writes

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ninjago13 · 9 months

Text

warning!!:

Someone is getting tortured in this chapter, but you can easily skip the chapter without missing any important plot points. I'll let you know what happened at the end of the chapter.

Chapter 5: Rescuing my little brother

‘Sam!!’ Dean saw the demons holding his little brother back, while Bobby, Lisa and Ben walked towards them. Bobby looked at him and said: ‘I’m sorry, son. But Sam has to stay with them.’ Both Dean and Cas gave him a you’re serious ?-look. ‘Come on. We have to get out of here, before Crowley still comes after us.’ Dean looked back one more time, only to see the demons and Crowley dragging Sam into the house. When he couldn’t see them anymore he went to the others. He didn’t say anything and drove back to Bobby’s. Cas thought that he probably wanted to be alone, so he went along with Bobby, Lisa and Ben.

‘Why, Bobby ? Why ?’ ‘Because Crowley offered to let Lisa, Ben, Balthazar and me go. I don’t like it, believe me, but this option was better than to die or to stay captured.’ While Dean and Bobby were arguing, Cas was taking care of Lisa and Ben. Crowley hadn’t really hurt them, just a few, small wounds. The most were on Lisa. Ben was okay, but he didn’t say a thing. Cas tried talking to Lisa. ‘So, how did you and Dean meet ?’ ‘We were friends. But after a while he had to go. Said he needed to stay with his father. We met again a year ago.’ While Cas put a bandage around her wound, he said: ‘He talked about you a lot, you know. About that year that he spent with you and Ben. He and Ben look a lot like each other, by the way.’ ‘Yeah, they do. Can I tell you a secret ? You must promise me not to tell anyone.’ ‘Alright. What is it ?’

Sam let out another scream when a knife poured in his flesh, again. Crowley had been torturing him for what, two, three hours now ? He had lost track of time. He now only wished it would stop. But Crowley had just said: ‘You’ve spent a year and a half in the Cage. I suppose you can take this.’ He was a mess. He wished that Dean was here. His brother always comforted him, even after they argued and Sam got attacked. His big brother had always been there for him, and Sam was sure that Dean would find a way to free him.

He woke up from his thoughts when Crowley put a knife again in one of his wounds. He screamed again and when Sam spoke he first didn’t recognize his own voice, because of how hoarse it was. ‘Stop !! Please, just stop !’ Crowley chuckled. ‘Stop ? Oh, I don’t think so. You, Dean and Castiel stopped me from getting to Purgatory. Besides, I won’t kill you.’ Sam looked at him surprised. Well, not directly, because his wrists were bound to the ceiling so that he needed to stand up. His toes reached the ground, but his shoulders were in an uncomfortable position. One of the advantages of being tall, Sam thought. ‘The more I torture you, the easier it will be for Cas to find you. And that is exactly what I want. Believe it or not, but that angel is dead once he gets in here! After I’ve had my fun on him, of course.’ ‘I thought you weren’t the type to torture people,’ Sam said. The King of Hell looked surprised at him. And while he cut Sam with another torture instrument, he said: ‘Well. I am the King of Hell.’

Cas suddenly felt a painful sensation. He first couldn’t find where it came from, but when he did he said to Dean: ‘We have to free Sam. He’s getting tortured by Crowley.’ ‘You’re sure?’ Cas nodded. ‘Any idea if they are still in the same place?’ ‘Yes, they are. But we have to be careful, Dean. There was a reason that Crowley wanted your brother alive.’ Dean looked at him, suddenly understanding what he was suggesting. ‘You mean it’s a trap ?’ ‘Probably, yes. We stopped him from getting to Purgatory, so he wants his revenge.’ ‘Okay, then we have to be extra careful. Can you fly us there?’ ‘Yes. But like I said, there’s a high chance that it’s a trap.’ Balthazar, surprisingly, had been in the background until he said: ‘Count me in, brother.’

While the trio was making preparations, Ben was exploring Bobby’s house. The house was big and had a ton of rooms in it. After a half hour he found a room where there was absolutely nothing, except a huge map on one wall. On the map were a lot of pins and a few notes. Ben started to read the notes, but had to stop after the second one. He became dizzy and swaggered a bit before he fell on the ground and lost consciousness.

This was probably the worst day of Sam’s life. He had been hanging in there for hours and Crowley was still going on. Between Sam’s screams, Crowley said: ‘I want to know something, moose.’ He pulled a knife out of the young man’s body and continued: ‘Why did you do it ?’ ‘D..wht ?’ ‘Sorry ?’ Sam had to force himself to cough and make his voice a little bit less hoarse. ‘Do what ?’ he asked again. ‘I think you know, don’t you ?’ The demon came closer and almost whispered. ‘Why did you drink that demon blood during the Apocalypse?’

Sam wanted to answer when they heard someone behind them say: ‘That’s none of your business.’ Sam couldn’t turn around, but he recognized the voice. ‘Hello, boys.’ Crowley turned around and saw a furious looking Dean and Cas, who looked anxious, but determined to get Sam out of there. ‘Hello, Castiel. Hello, Dean.’ ‘Let him go, Crowley !’ ‘Tss, tss, always so hasty. Why don’t we talk about this first?’ Dean would have slit Crowley’s throat if Cas hadn’t held him back. ‘Let me go, Cas.’ One second later they heard the sound of angel’s wings flapping. Crowley quickly turned around, only to see a few empty chains. ‘You really didn’t think we’d have a plan?’ The King of Hell sighed. ‘No, of course not, squirrel. It wasn’t your brother I wanted. I already have what I want.’ He pointed to Cas. From nowhere ropes showed up and quickly bound themselves around the angel. Dean was confused. Ropes wouldn’t hold him. But when he took a better look he saw the Enochian sigils burned in the ropes.

end notes:

While Sam was getting tortured, Crowley wanted to know why Sam drank the demon blood. Cas, Dean and Balthazar rescued him, but now Cas and Dean are still with Crowley.

#destiel #spn #fanfiction #sam gets hurt

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seawater-aurelia-writing · 3 years

Text

The Break

Pairing(s): Fem!MC/Yuu/Reader x TBD

Summary: MC finally shuts down from all of her acts of helping with overblots and the countless favors/demands that are asked of her. When the Prefect of Ramshackle is the one who needs help, who steps forward?

WARNINGS

I am not the best at labeling warnings or triggers but I can say that this story is laden with neglect, self-neglect, anxiety, possible depression and attempts to justify the above. There could be more labels that I can add but i’m unsure how to word them - so please exercise caution.

Quick Note: The reader in this story is largely based upon Cinderella, for multiple reasons (#1 being that I want to and #2 being that I absolutely love Cinderella and think she’s amazingヾ(•ω•`)o ) . If that type of character behavior annoys or offends you, I recommend skipping this!

She should have seen it coming; The break. Her break.

Her sight blurred with tears, which spilled over her eyes quickly as she laid upon the floor of the library – cold and alone. In front of her, just out of reach, laid her phone amidst the plentiful books which laid strewn chatoticly across the floor from her harsh tumble. Her phone vibrated constantly cause M/C o flinch as she imagined the messages that must be flying across her notifications; Her friends and upperclassmen asking for favors and why she hadn’t completed what they asked.

‘I need to… get up.’ She thought to herself, willing herself to move her arms but her body was more akin to cold, ancient steel, a machine that had been abandoned and forgotten throughout time; It felt nothing like how she was a month ago, a week ago, a few hours ago. ‘ I have.. so much left to do.’

As she tried to find the will to stand – M/C thought of how she ended up in this position; body battered and bruised after falling from the top of the ladder in the deserted corner of the library.

She could barely life her feet as she made her way down the path, back towards Ramshackle Dorm. In her arms, Grim lay curled into her chest as he slept peacefully in her arms.

‘We both had a long day.’ MC mused to herself, gently pressing his closer as the cold, wintry wind blew harder. She recounted their day slowly, going over each task they had accomplished.

Crowley wished for them to wake up earlier to remove unwanted, viney weeds from around the campus gates, Sam’s Store, and the fencing around the Flying Course field in exchange he’d give them some aid to finally repair their roof. Unable to refuse such an offer, M/C awoke at 3 am to be able to accomplish all of the weeding.

However, Grim had not woken to any of her calls or he just ignored her, leaving M/C to venture into the darkened morning on her own to do the weeding.

After 2 hours, when she was finally able to head back to Ramshackle to freshen up before breakfast, she was stopped by Vil. The Pomefiore Dorm Head all but demanded her attention for an hour in the afternoon, her lunch period specifically, to fetch him some arctic sea water from Azul.

Vil was supposedly unable to pick up the water himself as he had an impromptu photoshoot and Azul would only meet during lunchtime.

Despite the tone he used, M/C could sense that Vil was more antsy about missing his photoshoot -made more evident by the slight twitch at the mention of potentially missing the event. She agreed with a bright smile; choosing to ignore Vil’s comment about grass sticking to her and her ‘odor’ when she turned to leave.

Finally, she made it to Ramshackle and rid herself of the stray remnants of debris before she freshened up. Grim, who finally awoke, all but rushed her from the home before she could rest – determined to beat Ace and Deuce to breakfast.

But as luck would have it, M/C could not make it to the Dining Hall before she was stopped by a rather, frazzled Ruggie, who all but shoved a bag of food onto her. He left rushed orders to take it to Leona as he was asked to help restock the lounge before classes. He ran off before she could refuse.

Grim happily skipped to the dining room, telling her not to waste time since he wasn’t going to save her any of the food. However, before she could rush off – Grim yelled back at her to pick up some tuna for him at Sam’s since she was going out of the main building anyway.

She only nodded, ignoring the hollowed feeling in her stomach and the way it rumbled in protest.

M/C remembers being stopped before she could reach Leona, the botanical garden just in sight. That view had been blocked by the ever-looming, Leech Twins. Floyd grinned down at her and plucked the sandwich from her hands.

“Ah! Koechi-chan is so sweet!~ She brought food for us, Jade” Floyd cheered, ignoring her protests and pleas for him to give her the food back.

“Indeed she did, Floyd.” Jade chuckled, doing nothing to stop his twin, who began to eat the food in front of M/C. “And by the way, Prefect. Vil told us that you would be the one picking up his items later today.”

“Y-yes that’s right. At lunch time.” She clarified, her voice softer as she deflated. In retrospect, she still didn’t know what she could have said to Floyd to make him stop. So many girls on Magicam were adamant about how they maintain dominance over their own friends to avoid being stepped on but they always sounded cruel; Giving instructions to ‘clapback’, to insult them, to physically hurt them or poke at their insecurities to make them listen. She didn’t want to snap at the twins, not only would it not do her any good but angering them isn’t what she wanted.

“Azul needs to push that time to this evening, at dinner. Vil suddenly requested twice the amount and thus more payment is required.” M/C remembered the chill that ran down her spine as the Twins seemed to loom over her even more.

“P-Payment? But I don’t-“

“Rook is handling the payment but,in the even he doesn’t, please he prepared to pay any outstanding fees.”

The Twins ignored her pleas for clarification, with Floyd only turning around to demand that she be present for his basketball practice later today.

M/C recounted how, after that, her day became a blur with random intervals of clarity when another request or demand was made of her.

Ace and Deuce asking her to handle their chores in Heartslabyul of feeding the Hedgehogs and Flamingos while they went to mandatory study hall with Professor Trein.

Trey caught her and asked for her to pick up some cream from Sam’s shop for him. She also picked up the tuna that Grim had asked for and the only thing she could afford to eat to replace the breakfast that she missed – a discounted egg salad sandwich.

A sandwich she could only eat half of, as the other half was given to Silver, who had missed breakfast looking for Malleus. He had not asked anything of her, she remembered, but the way he looked at her was odd to say the least. He was adament on her sitting down and finishing her half of a sandwich before leaving but the appearance of Ortho, who asked for her to run an errand for Idia, pulled her away.

Her classes came and went, leaving her feeling isolated as usual. Professor Crewel, never one to shy away from a ‘training’ opportunity, chided her for using an incorrect about of Phoeniz wings in her potion. He only became agitated when she proceeded to answer his questions about the potion, a simple draught, completely wrong. Grim was of no help as even he didn’t know the answers, nor did Ace or Deuce by what they had said but Ace and Grim took great joy in laughing at her misery.

Normally, it wouldn’t have affect her but today, it hurt.

But she smiled anyway.

Lunch time came and, again, she was stopped before she entered the dining hall. Sebek demanded her help in finding Malleus, who was not present at lunch. Again, Grim deserted her as Sebek grabbed her and dragged her along beside him and Silver to find Malleus.

Again, Silver regarded her in an odd way but he said nothing out of the ordinary towards her.

They never did find Malleus and Sebek took too yelling at her for being unable to be of any use in finding him.

“..Sorry, Sebek. I’ll try harder next time.” Was all she could say, while Silver chided him on being too harsh.

As they made it back to the main building, it was time for classes; She had missed lunch as well.

‘Perhaps that’s why I was so dizzy.’ She thought to herself, managing to prop herself onto her elbows. The floor beneath her moved and rippled, similar to the waves in the great oceans back in her homeworld. ‘Correction, why I AM so dizzy…’

Her mind again wandered back to her day after lunch time; Where her day only worsened.

Without any proper food in her, there was no way that she could stay awake with Professor Trein’s class. Lucius quickly spotted her and alerted Trein, before Deuce could fully wake her up.

“Do you believe yourself too smart to pay attention within my class, Miss M/C.” He sneered, a glare firmly on his face as he gazed down at her.

“N-No, sir. I’m sorry, Professor! It wasn’t-“

“Silence.” His voice was firm as harsh, caushing her to flinch and shrink in her seat. “There will be no talking back to me of any kind. I had high expectations of you, Miss M/C and yet you have a complete lack of manners. As punishment, you will write me a paper explaining the important of Magical History, no less than 10 pages. If it is not on my desk first thing in the morning, then expect a harsher punishment. Do you understand?”

“Y-Yes, sir.” She mumbled, her head bowed in submission. M/C could remined the feeling of the heat behind her eyes; How hard it was to hold back tears in that moment.

She hadn’t expected kindness from Professor Trein but it seemed no one was recognizing that she was doing the absolute best that she could do with the circumstances that she was in.

She was blunt and sarcastic at times, yes, but she can’t think of anyone who can hold their tongue constantly. Yet when she seemed to speak, unless it was humorous in nature or her agreeing with those around her- she went unheard. But if she pressed and asked for help, who would drop their things to come to her aid?

Those thoughts plagued her for the rest of the day;

Even as Floyd threatened and scolded her for missing basketball practice, where she was supposed to stock the ice water and the cool towels for him, even though Epel asked her to pick up some old weights from Ruggie.

Even when Ruggie scolded her for not delivering Leona’s sandwich, calling her a thief for eating the sandwich when she reassured him that she didn’t and that Floyd had taken it.

Even when Ace and Deuce whined and complained about letting them down for not feeding the animals properly, when she couldn’t do it properly as they never explained all of the rules to her.

Even when Azul asked, demanded, that she find a specific book for him within the dark recesses of the library before closing as Vil’s additional fee– the thoughts never left her.

In truth, she was merely an anomaly in this world; An irregularity that didn’t belong, didn’t have a place within this magic, twisted world that she found herself in. She was without even the most basic magic to help her through her day to day life as the other had. M/C didn’t know even the most basic of terms within classes that would help her – shown by her struggling grades and performance.

She wouldn’t last outside of NRC, even Crowley had alluded to that. She had no birth certificate, no I.D. on her person, and no family of which to speak of.

Who would risk their own education and future to help someone who wouldn’t be able to do anything on their own anyway?

Even Grim, the other half to her ‘whole student’ was beginning to separate from her as his magic was matured and refined.

But that was why she smiled, was it? She smiled because she liked being needed, feeling as if she had a place in a world where she had none. Even if it ended with her being overworked, sleep-deprived and feeling so hollow – she was needed. A little suffering was nothing.

If her friends would excel in the world around her, wouldn’t that be worth it all? They shouldn’t have to suffer and fail in their classes just because a useless anomaly couldn’t handle the most basic of things.

‘It’s fine.’ She thought to herself, finally pushing herself to her knees. She winced, her movements letting her know just how bad her fall had truly been; Her chest hurt and ached with every beat of her heart, her right leg, the one which hit the ground first, was pulsing and red hot and all over – it felt as if fire ants were stinging her.

“It’s..fine.” She mumbled to herself, reaching with shaking hands to begin the task of stacking the books that she knocked over.

“No, it is not.” Came a hardened voice from behind her.

M/C tensed, her eyes widening as she registered the voice as Professor Trein. As she straightened her back quickly, aiming to turn to look at her professor, the room began to spin once more. Sound all around her became muffled as it felt as though her entire was was submerged underwater.

“ -s M/C. Are your manners that abhorrent that you cannot even turn to face when when I speak to y-.” Professor Trien fumed but his voice faded away despite how hard she attempted to focus on it.

“P-Professor…” She whimpered, curling into herself to try to stop the sensations around her; But they never ceased, even as she felt something wet run down her face - a pain beginning to bloom upon her head as she focused on the wet feeling.

And it all went dark.

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twistedmusings · 3 years

Text

Second Year Without You

A/N: HAHA I LOVE PAIN. I wrote almost all of this on my phone so I apologize for any spelling mistakes but with the twst 1 year anniversary my hands just called out to me to create nothing but pain u wu. So let me guys know what you think and...Happy 1 year anniversary~!

How the first years react to you suddenly disappearing before their second year starts.

“This is taking forever.”

Grim yawned as he made himself comfortable in your lap, your hand running through his fur as you struggled to stay awake. It was sort of impossible since the church building was still so eerily quiet as each new student’s dorm decisions were made.

Which made you wonder why you were even here.

Ramshackle wasn’t necessarily an official dorm so this weird sorting ceremony didn’t even mean anything to you. This was two hours of your life you weren’t going to get back apparently since Crowley decided that your presence was oh so important and now you were shifting uncomfortably in your seat as the last student stood in front of the mirror so their dorm could be decided.

“Oh. Malleus you might have a chance with this one.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean he came in rather gallantly and looks like the type to be good with magic so he would be perfect for Diasmonia.”

The Diasmonia dorm leader chuckles into his hand.

“Is that your final bet?”

“...yeah that’s my final one.” you tilt your head backwards as you look at Azul, “What did you put down?”

“Clearly Pomefiore, Prefect. You haven’t guessed right with any of the other student’s dorm matches so I am purposefully avoiding your suggestions.”

He meets your glare with a smile, jotting down a couple of notes as he turns to Kalim to ask him of his decision. The seven dorm leaders had followed along with the little game you began to play around the thirty minute mark of the ceremony, turning it into a betting pool the moment Azul got serious.

The room goes quiet as the face in the mirror finally chooses to appear.

"Your soul...it belongs in Pomefiore!"

Your groan is hidden by polite clapping, Malleus patting your head as you choose to hang it in shame. This felt just like failing one of Crewel's quizzes but now you were 600 madol poorer.

"Prefect that was a major loss...I might have to stop talking to you if this affects my gacha pulls."

The tablet hovers beside you, clearly mocking your incredible loss before you bat it away and turn to look at Crowley.

"And with that, my dear students, the ceremony is concluded. Please follow your vice dorm leaders to your designated dorms...and welcome to Night Raven College!"

You stand up, put Grim down and stretch, waving goodbye to the other dorm leaders as you wonder just what in the world you were going to have for dinner tonight. You knew Azul was going to open Monstro Lounge in celebration so maybe you should go--

"Oi! Prefect!"

Well that was quick.

Ace smiles as he approaches the pew first, talking to you about how boring the ceremony was and what you were planning to do afterwards. Deuce comes up behind him followed by Epel while Jack and Sebek talk with their dorm leaders for a few moments before heading to where you were standing.

“We got some news, by the way~” Ace smiles as he throws up some jazz hands towards Sebek, “May I present to you the soon to be vice dorm leader of Diasmonia~!”

Sebek tries to frown but there is a clear smile on his face as he takes off his hood, beaming with pride as you shake his hand. You would have gone with high-five but you figured he would like this better.

“Did Malleus break the news to you?”

“He did!” the fae’s voice breaks through the hushed silence, “Young Master approached me ever so elegantly and let me know of my role for next year! The mere act was so moving and inspiring!”

“I also got some news!” Epel grins as he gets butts in front of Sebek, “The Magic Shift club captain told me that I’m in the running for first string! If I win one more game I’ll be able to play with them officially!”

You go to congratulate Epel but stop when Ace also butts in front of him, “Better news! I’ve been made vice-captain of the basketball team! Jamil was going to give the title to Floyd but then he decided better against it.”

“So you were the second choice.” Jack says as he pulls his hood down.

“And the best one! Jamil knew the choice he was going to make all along, he was just messing with me.” Ace grins as he turns towards you, “Impressive, huh?”

You hum before laughing, “I would say it was impressive if it wasn’t for the fact that I know for a fact Floyd would do a worse job at any leadership position than you.”

“Oi!”

The group laughs before Epel tugs on Deuce’s robe and pushes him so that he is in front of you next.

“And Prefect, may I present the new captain of the Track and Field club!”

Deuce’s face goes a light shade of pink as Epel tugs on his cheek, “He said he wanted to tell his mom first before telling us but I figured since we are all talking about achievements…”

“Because it was not set in stone!” the Heartslabyul student takes Epel’s hand and pulls it away from his hand, “Jack still has a good chance to get it instead of me.”

“Mm. I would rather it go to you, Deuce.” Jack smiles as he pats his shoulder, “I see how hard you work during practices so I think the position would be perfect for you.”

“Oh right. Leona told me.” you smile at Jack, “Am I right in assuming we are talking to the vice dorm leader of Savannaclaw?”

“I--!” wolf ears twitch as Jack blushes, looking at you in disbelief before sighing as the others stare at him in expectation, “...Yes. Ruggie-senpai told me before the ceremony.”

Everybody gives him a round of applause as his blush deepens in color, making you laugh as you lean over to pat his shoulder. To think they were all now second years…

You included.

I’m supposed to be finding a way home…

The thought is catapulted from your head as Grim sets himself down on top of it, smiling as he topples forward so you would catch him in your arms.

“Fgnya~! The Great Grim and his henchman have news too!”

A paw is pointed at you, your cue to speak apparently.

“...Ramshackle is getting some big renovations soon! We managed to talk Crowley into it and he agreed to renovate both the kitchen and the bathroom as well as possibly renovating some of the rooms!”

“What!” Ace laughs, “How did you pull that off!?”

“Hehe~” Grim taps his chest twice, “I told the Headmaster that Ramshackle can serve as a place for guests from other schools to stay over! He gets a place to brag about with potential guests and we get brand new things!”

Epel hums, “So it’s like a hotel.”

Both you and Grim stay quiet and look away, the group laughing knowing Epel had hit right on the mark.

You stay quiet as they talk with one another, smiling fondly at seeing your group of friends happily enjoying their life here in Night Raven College. You didn't even know how it happened but this little group had become like your family in the one year you stayed here. The homesickness you felt whenever you realized you were far from your home was always subdued by hanging out with them and taking part in their shenanigans. To you it was crazy to think about it this way but...you loved them.

Ace’s tricks but also his quiet support of you and the rest of the group.

Deuce’s tenacity but also the gentle side he let only his friends see.

Jack’s work ethic along with his more nurturing side.

Epel’s constant growth as a person yet never forgetting where he came from.

Sebek’s devotion towards his Young Master as well as realizing his own strength.

And Grim’s goal of wanting to be the greatest magician ever but never leaving you behind.

You loved these six dorks so much, more than you would care to admit to yourself.

Finding a way home was no longer such a big priority in your eyes. You used to ask the Headmaster constantly for a way back home but you believed that this place had become more of a home in your eyes. So the constant reminder that you weren’t from here was silenced by just how much these six made you feel like you were part of a big family.

“...I’m starving.” you finally speak up as you let go of Grim, “You guys want to drop by the Monstro Lounge?”

“Can we drop by Pomefiore first? I forgot my wallet.”

“Prefect! We should invite the Young Master too!”

“If we are going to do that then let’s invite Leona-senpai as well. I have a feeling he will complain if Malleus-senpai is the only one in the celebration.”

“Do you think we should invite Riddle after the first year’s celebration, Ace?”

Deuce turns to look at his fellow student, blinking when he has to turn all the way around.

“Ace?”

All heads turn to look at the other second year, cherry red eyes shining as he points at the mirror still floating in the center of the room.

“You know. Since the mirror is still here…” Ace smiles as he walks over to you and takes your hand, “Don’t you think we should try your sorting again?”

“Huh?”

Your sorting?

That’s right. The mirror had said that your soul didn’t really belong anywhere when you first came here.

“I honestly don’t think it’s going to be any different, Ace.” you shrug, “Besides I sort of already belong in a dorm--”

Grim comes up behind you, “Exactly! They belong in the dorm we made!”

“Oh come on! Wouldn’t it be fun!” Ace looks back at the group, “It’s just us here. Don’t you guys want to see what dorm Prefect would have been sorted in?”

Jack hums before looking at you, “I believe you would make a fine Savannaclaw student.”

“Well they also helped out with Pomefiore, I think that would be a good fit for them too.” Epel sighs, “If they were there I wouldn’t feel like a green apple in a red apple orchard.”

Sebek taps his chin a few moments before nodding, “Despite having no magical talent, your presence in Diasmonia would be greatly appreciated.”

“Okay okay you doofuses, I think we all know what dorm they would be sorted in.” Ace wraps an arm around you as he gestures Deuce over, “So say hello to the Heartslabyul Trio~”

“Ace! Stop trying to get my henchman somewhere else! They belong in Ramshackle!”

Grim tugs on your hood while you quickly ask him to stop, your arms flailing around before you pull your hood down and find yourself face to face with the mirror.

“Ace I don’t think--” you turn to look at him but the other just puts his hand together as if he were praying.

“Just one look, Prefect! Please!” Ace smiles as he looks over at Deuce, “We are all curious, right?”

Deuce’s nervous expression relaxes as he sees that there really was nobody else around.

“It wouldn’t hurt to know. It’d be just us.”

“I agree! I am way too curious to not know now!”

“Your true nature is showing, Epel.”

“Don’t pretend like you’re not curious, Jack!”

“Quiet humans! The face in the mirror is deciding!”

You quickly turn around as you see the face in the mirror, a knot in your chest suddenly forming as the chamber falls into silence. What a feeling of dejavu. You remember just how you felt when you were standing in front of the mirror the first time.

No idea where you were, no idea what was to come.

And the feeling of being an outcast had been unbearable when the mirror stated that you belonged nowhere...but you had carved out a little place here to call your own. Despite the fact that you knew where you were going to sleep tonight and where you were going to wake up in the morning, the knot of nervousness relaxed and turned into a curious dizziness, the silence only serving to make the noise in your ears ring.

The mirror only stared at you for a minute longer before speaking up.

“It seems your time is up.”

You blink as the face disappears, turning towards the others as they all share the same look of confusion before sighing as they turn around and start walking towards the exit.

“Well that was anticlimactic.” Ace pouts, “Thought for sure they belonged in Heartslabyul.”

Deuce sighs, “Monstro Lounge for sure must be full now. How will we get a table?”

“We can celebrate in Diasmonia instead! I know that the dorm is going to be full of fae cuisine!”

“...I...prefer taking my chances at the Monstro Lounge.” Epel smiles as he look at Jack, “Or maybe Savannaclaw?”

“It would be rowdy but if you don’t mind that sort of atmosphere.”

“Savannaclaw usually has some good roasted beef! Do you know if they have that there today?” Grim places himself on Jack’s head as the other keeps talking about their celebration.

“Alright. We’ll check Monstro Lounge and then Savannaclaw! Oi, Prefect, get a move--”

Ace’s eyes widen as he turns around, dread climbing up his legs and curling around his neck as he looks at the small orbs of lights floating away in the place where you were supposed to be.

Only to find that you weren’t there anymore.

--What...the hell?

--He looks around, wondering where you went and calling out your name. It starts out with a couple of laughs at first but the dread in his stomach grows as well as the volume of his voice.

"Oi! This isn't funny! Come out already!"

--Deuce is calling out to him but he can't listen to him, all he can remember is the mirror's voice saying that time was up?

--Time? As in your time in Twisted Wonderland? But...you said that the Headmaster hadn't found a way to get you back home. He didn't want to disappoint you but after a whole year with them...he didn't believe that you would go back. Which was alright! Ace was more than ready to make this a home for you! He didn't know how he was going to do it, but goddammit he at least wanted to try!

--He wasn't done with you yet! He hadn't shown you the cool trick shot he learned to shoot with Floyd, or the awesome new magic trick he designed with you in mind! You would always look past his tricks so he wasn't able to fool you but he thought that this one would be worthy of your praise!

--Eyes glare at the mirror as he lets his feelings spill out.

"BRING THEM BACK! THEY AREN'T DONE HERE! THEY BELONG HERE! BRING THEM BACK!"

--Jack is holding him back from lashing at the object and after a few moments of thrashing around, all Ace can do is stare at the spot you were at a moment ago with his eyes stinging from tears that still refused to fall.

--He didn't even get to say goodbye.

--At first all he can do is stare. Where had you gone? Were you playing some sort of prank on them? If you were...this really wasn’t funny at all. You two had promised to go running together in the morning with Jack, you needed to get back to Ramshackle to sleep so it was best if you celebrated early and then went to bed--

“Deuce. Go get the Headmaster."

--He doesn't remember much after that. All he remembers is Ace yelling and Jack holding him back before he was rushing out of the building and towards the Headmasters office.

--You couldn't be gone. Where did you even go? A part of him doesn't even want to say that you had gone back. There was nowhere you had to go back to in his head. Twisted Wonderland was your home and you belonged here just like the rest of them.

--Memories of his time with you make his feet move faster, the robes proving a great weight but not at all stopping him from reaching his goal.

--Everything would be fine. They would find a way to get you back and Deuce wouldn't allow himself to let you do something so irresponsible again. He should have stopped Ace when he could! And once you came back then he could give you a proper send off.

--His feet were sore, his lungs were burning but he wouldn’t dare stop running, finally reaching the Headmasters office as he pulled the door open with all his might.

--He just wanted to get you back so he could properly thank you. You were his buddy...and he didn't want to let you go without you knowing that.

--It's hard holding back against his instincts.

--His body's first response is to also grab at the mirror and find out where you had gone. The idea of you disappearing just like that was impossible, especially after all the trouble the Headmaster had in finding a portal to your world. So, to him, you were immediately in danger.

--He clenched his fists hard as he walked Ace towards one of the pews, letting him sit down as Epel and Sebek approached him. They were asking questions and clearly depending on him for some sort of guidance. Which wasn’t completely out of the norm, he was an older brother and had grown to care for his friends just as he would his siblings. One year did a lot to bring people closer together. But what could he do but remain quiet as Epel and Sebek asked questions he could not answer.

--Jack had no idea where you had gone, no idea if you were going to come back and as the questions kept piling up the dread in his heart began to grow. Would you even come back?He knew how important family was and how terrible it was to be separated from them, but what about the people you left behind here? Your disappearance was already making them--no--him feel so powerless that he could only answer the other first year’s questions with a simple phrase.

“I don’t know.”

--He instinctively bared his teeth as the doors slammed opened, keeping Epel and Sebek behind him as the Headmaster entered the building with a frown, asking for a run down of the situation in full detail as possible. And while Jack would have taken charge of the situation in this scenario, just simply looking at the mirror kept him from articulating his thoughts correctly.

--Jack just wanted to know you were safe.

“We were left in the building all alone and we thought that [Y/N]-san should try to sort themselves again, just to see what would happen. Yet the mirror didn’t say anything and now they are...they are not--”

--Hold it back. Hold the tears back. Epel had gone through a lot in his time in both NRC and Pomefiore. He had been pushed out of his comfort zone through the VDC and just living in a dorm that was so unlike him but he had pushed through and adapted relatively well, with your help and the help of his friends. So now was not the time to cry!

--You had once praised him for his mental strength, saying that it took a lot of training for him to be put through Vil’s daily demands and training as well as keeping up with the Magishift club and his studies above all of that. With that little comment, and the support of his newfound friends, Epel’s mind had shifted into focusing on how strong he was mentally instead of physically.

--Something he needed to be now more than ever.

“They disappeared.”

“Headmaster, how are we going to bring them back?”

“Well...this was the way it was supposed to be from the start. As much as it pains me to say, it seems the Prefect finally found their way back home.”

“NO!”

--He puts a hand over his mouth, surprised by his own outburst. When he was still a beginning first year there were moments in which he had to keep himself in check from speaking like he would back home. As the year went on he had managed to keep himself in check and only let his accent and his voice volume slip when he was with his friends and with you.

--The Headmaster simply continued talking about the possibilities as Epel hung his head, biting his bottom lip as he remembered the last conversation you both had. With vacations upon them soon, Epel had invited you to come over and visit the Village of Harvest. First time he had a friend over there so he was all set to show you the sights of his little town and it would be your first official trip to another land in Twisted Wonderland!

--A hand touched his shoulder, Epel turning around as he saw Deuce looking down at him with tears in his eyes. That was the last straw as his own tears started to flow freely, Epel burying his face in the other’s robes so no one would have to see just how weak he looked.

“Sebek.”

--The fae’s back straightened out, the voice of his Young Master ringing out as he turned around to look at him. Several students were peeking through the door, trying to get a peek at what was happening while others worked to get the message around, yet Malleus was the only one brave enough to step through the threshold of the building and approach him.

--The Ramshackle prefect had disappeared.

--Sebek had a strange relationship with you. While he detested the way you treated the Young Master as nothing more than just another person, he had slowly started to come around to your way of thinking. The Young Master wanted a friend, and Sebek had only been keeping him at a distance due to his admiration.

--You taught him how to talk to his Young Master and how to appreciate a friendship with him instead of just blinding devotion.While he would still follow Malleus to the end of the earth, he did so as Malleu’s friend and not as his guard. In turn, he slowly started to feel like he would the same for you, as well.

--He was still very naive to relationships such as these but you had been patient, listening to him talk about Malleus when he wanted while also asking him of his other interests. Your teaching method had been effective and Sebek would have even dared to say that you were perhaps coming close to being his best friend.

--Although that chance had disappeared along with you.

--So the only thing he could do is stare into his Young Master’s eyes, the eyes of someone who was just as confused and as worried as he, and do his best to tell him what had happened and what the Headmaster had said.

--He knew that it was for the best that you had gone back home, but why did it feel so wrong?

#twisted wonderland #twst #twst anniversary #twst headcanons #twst imagines #ace trappola #deuce spade #jack howl #epel felmier #sebek zigvolt #twst first years

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zackcrazyvalentine · 3 years

Note

me seeing the ask masterlist realizing most of them are mine : 🤡

BUT ANYWAYS

CONCERNING THE FAMILY DAY

THE SIBLINGS 🛐

i’m not saying that i have a crush on ace’s brother , cater’s sisters and sebek’s siblings because of that some fanart but that’s exactly what i’m saying

ACE’S MOM DESTROYING HER SON LIFE IN FRONT MC ? FORGET THAT ACE’S BROTHER CAME IN WITH THE RECEIPTS . HE HAS BEEN WAITING FOR THIS MOMENT AND 👏🏾HE 👏🏾IS 👏🏾PREPARED👏🏾

“hey did you know that ace used to looooove going around butt naked when he was younger ?” “DON’T YOU DARE-“ “here i have pictures , videos , posters and mugs printed of it-“

CATER’S SISTERS WOULD PROBABLY BE ALL OVER MC

“oh they’re so cute ~ !” “(new nickname)-chan ! do you wanna see some baby pics of cater ? look at this one he couldn’t quite stand on his legs and he-“ “HAHAHAHAHAA yeah so funny ! but would you like at the time it’s to go-“

sebek’s siblings would probably resemble their parents ? i see his sister being just like his mother and his brother as calm as his father ? ACTUALLY THE WHOLE ZIGVOLT COUPLE GIVE ME BAKUGOU’S PARENTS VIBES-

JACK’S LITTLE SIBLINGS-

I- THE LOVE I HAVE FOR THEM WHEN WE DON’T EVEN KNOW THEIR NAMES-

his brother is in middle school if i’m not wrong so just like all these AnGsTy teenage boys (and his brother-) he would be like “i-it’s not like i needed your help or anything o(｀ω´ )o” sure whatever rocks you boat-

HIS LITTLE SISTER WOULD BE LIKE CHEKA . THE MINUTE SHE SAW HER BROTHER SHE WOULD BE LIKE “hey big bro ! look i grew a lot since last time ! i’m a big girl now so i can go with you do luge next time ! ᕦ(ò_óˇ)ᕤ” PLEASE SHE WOULD BE ADORABLE WITH THE EARS AND ALL DOWOWODKWOMEODMEKWOWKSOWKSDKSOWKEOEOOEE

TREY’S LITTLE SIBLINGS. you’re watching from afar as a flock of children come and proceed to pummel your friend to the ground-

they would be the kind of siblings that’s asks questions about everything and anything at any time i just know-

LETS NOT EVEN TALK ABOUT KALIM’S SIBLINGS BECAUSE ITS A FUCKING ARMY AT THIS POINT-

imagine this

in a dark room somewhere in nrc . multiples children are sat besides a round table with sunglasses on and glass of grape juice adult beverages in their hand .

Okay i don’t know how to write so that it would makes sense BUT BASICALLY ITS JUST A “MY BROTHER/UNCLE BETTER YOU POO BECAUSE HE-“

yes the same would happen with the older siblings i am convinced-

also don’t worry it wasn’t too long i’m happy it gave you inspiration-

ASK AND YE SHALL RECIVE!!!!

HONESTLY, SAME ANON!! I HAVE A BIG FAT CRUSH in Cater’s Sisters and Ace’s Brother (and Sebek’s, Azul’s & Deuces mamas) 😭😭😭

Sorry, but I'll do a hard pass writing for Kalim's mansion-full of siblings 🙇‍♀️ (plus I don't think Crowley would let 30+ kids-teens-toddles-babies come into NRC lol, maybe just the following 3 after Kalim) BUT INSTEAD!!! I hope you like the bonus character~

LOL THE FIGTH TO FIND OUT WHO'S BROTHER IS THE BEST, A CHAOTIC BATTLEFIELD FILLED WITH BABY PICTURES AND ANECDOTES OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND CUTE/STUPID/HEARTWARMING THINGS ALL OF THEM DID

-- -- -- --

MC attentively watched as skilled hands mix card in different flashy ways, while Ace sat beside them with a bored and irritated look on his face.

“This is your card!” The older redhead took a random card and showed it to MC. Sparkles shone in their eyes as they smiled a big bright smile, amazed at the card trick.

Ace interrupted the moment. “Oh, yeah, duh! The easiest trick there is! You just had to cast a simple spell that allows only your eyes to see which card [Name] picked highlighted in red!”

Big Brother Trappola looked at his sibling with an unamused face, MC mirroring the look at having their momentary joy crumbled like that. “Sure, a simple trick, but it was I who taught it to you. Don’t forget little Ace! You’re always following my steps~”

The heart suit boy sighed exasperatedly, shaking his head and looking some other way.

“Ah, he definitely is following a~ll your advices, Big Bro! Ace is always mentioning how you taught him many useful tricks for life!” MC became a little tattletale to antagonize their friend.

The Hearstlabyul student tensed, blushing as he looked at the other two. His sibling smirked, “Really now~? Oh, I didn’t know you loved me so much, baby bro! Say, [Name], let me tall you all my favorite stories of Ace when he was little! I even brought our old photo album for you to view! You can keep it if you like~” The aforementioned photo record appeared, “Look at this one! Ace used to wear his tighty whities like a superhero mask!”

At that, the 1st year tugged his friend away from his mischievous older brother, dragging them far away from his influences.

~°~ ~°~

“Cay-nii! Look look! We found your cute little friend before we could find you, and they were so kind to bring us here!” The younger of the two Diamond sisters waved at her brother. However, her arm remained linked with MC’s.

Cater looked scared, despair quickly painting his face. All his attempts to hide, ruined But now that his sisters had MC in their arms... He couldn’t run the risk of them embarrassing him in front of his crush.

“A-Ahaha..! Yeah, look at that..!” The orange haired boy awkwardly laughed, approaching the menace that were his sisters (with a cute, clueless MC between them).

MC spoke up with that bright smile on their face, "Your sisters are so lovely, Cater! I wouldn't mind having siblings as nice as these."

"Oh if only you knew, little Prefect." Cater though to himself.

The sisters looked at each other, then at their younger brother. "Is that so, [Name]-chan~?" The older one inquired, words drawled out in a playful yet dark tone. Oh no, Cater tensed at what they were planning.

Acting quickly, the girls dragged MC over to one of Heartslabyul's many couches. "You're always welcomed into the family, [Nickname]-chan!" "To show you you're a Diamond now, let us watch some of Cater's old baby pics! He was the most adorable little brother back then!"

The Heartslabyul student hurried up to his siblings, trying his best to ruin their "bonding" activity.

~°~ ~°~

The evening was nice, warm with a comfortable breeze... The surprising thing was that MC shared many laughs with Sebek and his siblings through the day.

They were nice, very nice! The girl was intense like their friend, while the boy was tamer, on the shy side.

They shared many stories about their family life: the fishing trips to catch salmon, what their parents were up to in the clinic and the new patients they got to work with (quite a colorful array, one must say), life in Valley of Thorns, tales of their magical awakening and how Sebek threw up when his magic woke up, funny stories of childhood games, and thought MC many songs!

With how much they butt heads with Sebek, MC wholeheartedly welcomed this wonderful day filled with happiness, shared with their friend and his siblings!

~°~ ~°~

A Magift practice match supervised by Leona

MC sat on the sidelines, a bouncing wolf pup sitting on their lap. The small child marveled at the highspeed tricks and plays of both teams. "Big Bro Jack!! Go go go, Big Bro Jack!!" She yelled at the top of her lungs, cheering her brother on.

At their side, an embarrassed sigh could be heard. Jack's little brother, who held striking resemblance with him (specially with that attitude), tried to hide away from onlookers' eyes after his sister's cheer.

But then...

Jack snatched the disk from the enemy team, sending it flying through the air with a mighty powerful flick from his magical pen and--!

"SCOOOOORE!!!!" Both young wolves screamed in happiness, tails wagging a couple times as their adrenaline kicked.

Leona laughed at the reaction. "Not so indifferent now, huh, squirt?" His hand ruffled the wolf boy's hair. The boy blushed at getting caught cheering like that.

A sudden snicker startled the siblings as they looked at the hyena beastman. "You resemble your brother a lot. I'm sure you could become as good of a player as Jack some day."

The little girl gasped in amazement, siblings looking at each other with excited sparkles in their eyes at the compliment the older of the two just received.

"Ah~, they're just as adorable as Jack!" MC gushed internally.

~°~ ~°~

"Trey-nii!" "Big Bro!" "Trey-Trey!" Many voices came their way, sounding excited about finally getting to see their beloved brother once more.

Trey chuckled nervously, "Here we go..." Suddenly, MC saw three little kids glomp their friend. Two hugged his legs while the other climbed up to cling to his torso.

"How have you been, big bro?" "Have you made friends?! Many friends?!" "Do you have sweets? I smell cake!" "Your house here looks funky!" "Can we go inside the big house, Trey-Trey?!" "Can I pick a pretty rose, Trey-nii? I really want a pretty rose!"

They fired multiple questions at their 3rd year friend. So young, so curious, a perfect embodiment of childhood...

MC giggled, "You never told me your siblings were so inquisitive. It's so cute!"

Their attention immediately turned to MC. In a hurry, they let go of Trey and approached the magicless human.

"You're a friend of Trey-nii, right?! Right?!" "You're pre~tty, no wonder Trey-Trey likes you!" "Hey, hey! Do you also have a big house like big bro?!" "Do you have any siblings? I wanna befriend my brother's friends' siblings!" "A pretty person like you deserves a pretty rose... Trey-nii! Can we pick roses to make a crown? Plea~se?!"

"Now now, let's not overwhelm [Name] in our first meeting, yes?" Trey's call silenced them in a second. "I do believe you must first introduce yourselves before asking so many questions to a stranger, don't you think?"

The trio looked to the ground and fidget with their clothes. "Yes, Big Brother Trey..."

The glasses wearing student shot an apologetic look to MC. "Why don't we go inside and get your introductions done, as well as your questions answered, over a slice of tart and a cup of tea? Sounds good? Maybe you can meet some other friends of mine, too."

The kids perked up, happy smiles brightening their faces as they nodded and took each of Trey's hands. The remaining child looked at MC, who smiled and stretched their hand for them to take before making their way into Heartslabyul dorm.

~°~ ~°~

"My Ruggie really did that?!" The old woman was surprised, wrinkled face showing her emotions.

MC affirmed with their head, "Yes, he's always helping me forage for herbs and tasty plants to use for meals! Really useful for cutting off expenses. He even taught me few recipes with said plants, recipes taught by you, Miss!"

Ruggie's grandmother smiled proudly. "He's such a nice soul, isn't he? Always bringing cans of food when he comes visit us to ensure the little ones back home have something to eat." She held MC's hand in both of hers, using the one on top to give the prefect's a couple taps.

"You treasure those recipes with your life, young one! And please," Her eyes were so gentle as she looked up at them, "Keep an eye out for my Ruggie, yes? He tends to overwork himself. Please, fulfill my role while I'm away from him, make sure he eats and sleeps well, that he stays hydrated and relaxes his mind. That is all I could ever ask from you."

MC's heart contracted with adoration at how kind this old lady was, a beautiful old soul still full of vigor.

They nodded, squeezing those calloused yet warm hands of hers.

Meanwhile, the eavesdropping hyena sniffled at the sweet moment between his grandmother and friend. He was deeply touched.

Two peopled he held dear to his heart were getting along swimmingly! More over, they just showed him they care equally as much about him as he does for them.

-- -- --

BUT WE ALL LOVE YOUR ASKS, ANON!!!!

KEEP BLESSING US WITH YOUR IDEAS!!!!

#zask #twisted wonderland #ace trappola #sebek zigvolt #cater diamond #jack howl #trey clover #ruggie bucchi

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shroudcore · 3 years

Text

Speak now, or forever hold your peace. (Finale)

Summary: The ghosts may have left, but the wedding they officiated is not something to be easily forgotten. Will unsaid feelings remain hidden? Idia thinks so, after seeing you with your admirers.

Idia x GN!reader. Reader is MC, or takes the role of MC in this story.

(Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4)

Warnings: none

After that 3-star difficulty sidequest, it was finally time for the ghosts to leave. They were filing out through a shimmering silver portal to the Land of the Dead, which you joked about jumping into “for the meme”. Idia was quick to discourage it. The joke would’ve been funny at any other time than right now.

Each ghost made sure to give the newlyweds their congratulations. Each congratulation made Idia want to take off into the night, never to be seen again. It was beyond embarrassing. Unbearable. Way past his limit of social interaction capability. Things were getting way too much to handle for his now-empty Energy bar.

While Idia longed for the comfort and isolation of his dorm room, you were the one who thanked the well-wishers and said the goodbyes—from a safe distance, of course.

“When we return, I want you to meet our baby!” Eliza announced before she stepped into the portal. You and Idia shared a look. As if reading each other’s minds, you checked your schoolmates’ faces for their reactions—which did not disappoint. Different ways of saying “Don’t come back!” filled the hall, in varying degrees of anger and vulgarity. Before she disappeared for good, Eliza huffed and stuck her nose up in the air—an expression that tonight’s failed suitors knew all too well.

At her departure, the portal shrunk into a mere speck until it completely disappeared. Then came the loudest cheers of the night serving as Victory fanfare. It was all over! But before he went, Idia hoped to say goodbye and take a look at you in your suit one last time. Or maybe even ask you to hang out tomorrow, depending on his current Courage level.

While he silently rehearsed his thank-yous and good-byes, he wondered if you knew that you were still holding his hand. He decided not to mention it.

Unfortunately, his brief moment of (weak) celebration was cut short when he noticed that the now-mobile Groom Rejects were approaching. They might as well have red bars floating over their heads to warn him of danger. He froze, contemplating whether to:

> Bear it and stay with you just until he was prepared to say goodbye (+10 relationship points -20 comfort LV)

> Just run off on his own without saying anything, ignoring your calls. (-10 relationship points +10 comfort LV)

For now, he decided to stick with Option 1. Just a little bit longer.

“That was amazing!” Deuce exclaimed, rushing over to give you a high-five. You laughed and met other high-fives, low-fives, fist bumps, and head pats that came your way with that lovely smile of yours.

Suddenly, Ace rips you away from him. Suddenly, you weren’t holding hands anymore. The loud first-year put his arm around you and Idia couldn’t help but notice how easy and natural it looked. Meanwhile, there he was: someone who needed to rehearse his goodbyes.

Clearly, there was a huge level difference here and Idia was the one disadvantaged.

“Our hero!” Ace yelled, inspiring more cheers. The distance between you and Idia grew as your wave of admirers and friends swept you farther and farther away. He was an outsider once again, stuck watching the fun from the sidelines. Their eyes sparkled. Their mouths smiled. Their loud voices laughed and praised you and laughed with you again.

They loved you. And Idia was no different.

Everyone’s Friend and the Weird Shut-in. Was there hope?

“Brother, I’m so glad you’re safe!” Ortho’s voice cut through his stream of thoughts. Immediately, he feels the weight on his shoulders lighten.

He watched as his brother, his beacon of hope, made his way around your fan club until he eventually reached his spot. Ortho wouldn’t care if he looked like a loser, standing there awkwardly at the side all alone. Finally, he was saved.

My savior! “Ortho! Thank you, thank you…”

“No injuries… tense muscles… an increase in cortisol production,” Ortho muttered, frowning. “Are you okay?”

“No…”

Ortho nods. “We’ll return to the dorm, then. But before that, we should thank the Prefect.”

“Oh… right.” Idia looked over to you, still surrounded by your “fans” like the SSR character you were. You listened to Azul, who prattled on and on about something that was oh-so-interesting that you couldn’t take your eyes off him. And Vil judged your suit’s design, reaching out to fix something near your neck. You cracked up at something Floyd said. You posed and smiled beside Cater as he took a selfie with you.

His mind raced as it continuously spotted the students on his list and everything they did. What was so interesting about Azul? What was so funny about Floyd? Did you like Vil’s hardworking, confident attitude? Did you think Cater had a way with words?

He looked away.

“Ortho, I’m going back to my room,” he said with a heavy heart, admitting Defeat. He was underleveled, had zero energy, and zero SP (social points). He’ll see you… some other time. After his cry-sesh, maybe.

“Huh? Don’t you want to talk to the Prefect first?”

“I’ll just… DM them later,” he lied. In truth, all he wanted was to drown himself in a video game while he gorged on candy and tried not to think about you. Ortho’s eyes narrowed, but followed him as he sneakily left the hall anyway.

You’d understand, right?

Once he and Ortho were out, he looked back at the hall doors, hating himself for being too shy and cowardly to make a move. He imagined charging back into the room, wedging himself in between your friends, grabbing your arm, and pulling you away. Then he’ll kabedon you and—

Who was he kidding? He can’t do that, and you probably wouldn’t like that.

“It was terrible, brother. Nobody wanted to help!” Ortho said, and Idia thinks he didn’t need to be reminded that nobody liked him.

“When the Prefect and I reached Diasomnia, we expected them to reject us too…” he mused. “But Malleus Draconia agreed to help us! Can you believe it?”

“Wait… Malleus-shi?”

Ortho nodded enthusiastically. “Yes… because the Prefect talked to him… and then he cast a charm on them to help us ward off those ghosts! It was really nice of him.”

“I see…” Idia knew that you and Malleus were friends. But to actually help you and him? Maybe your relationship with the Diasomnia dorm leader ran deeper than he thought. Why else would he go through that trouble?

“The Prefect volunteered without needing to be asked, you know,” said Ortho, who he now noticed was observing him carefully. Idia tried to ignore the way his brother’s eyes lingered on him as they walked (floated in Ortho’s case).

“...I’m so glad their plan worked!”

Wait, what?

“Volunteered? Their plan?” All this time, he thought you’d been forced to do this by the Headmaster! You did always rant about Crowley promising you different sorts of rewards if you did jobs here and there. But… you got yourself into this mess… all for him?

Idia looked at the hand you held just moments ago and dared not hope again. Maybe you would have done this for anyone else in his place. Maybe you treated everyone the same, and it just so happened that he was the one kidnapped by a ghost bride.

Still, he felt bad for not doing as Ortho said earlier. It was too late to turn back, however, as Idia and Ortho finally reached the Hall of Mirrors.

“Finally… I’m so tired,” said Idia, meaning it in all ways. But as he put one leg forward to enter the door to Ignihyde, he heard someone’s voice, along with the scuffle of shoes against the floor coming closer and closer to where he and Ortho stood.

“Idia, wait up!”

Oh no. It’s you. Enter now! Enter now!

But no matter what his head told him to do, he remained rooted to his spot. He stood still despite his pounding heart, that elevator-like feeling in his stomach, and the blaring alarms in his head.

Object of affection at 5m…

Ortho was probably seeing his vitals going haywire and giving him that look again. He turned to look at his brother… only to not find him there.

Help… oh no…

2m…

“Hey,” you gasped out, catching your breath. “When I turned around, you were gone…”

Yeah, same. Just like Ortho…

No one said a word for a while. The silence was only filled by your heavy breathing as it slowly evened. Inwardly facepalming at himself, he decided to take the chance to tell you everything he should’ve said before he left.

But before he could open his mouth and apologize for leaving, (gods know he had too many things to apologize for after tonight), he was taken into a warm embrace.

OHMYGODSOHMYGODSOHMYGODSOKAYLET’SCALMDOWN

“I thought I was too late.” you mumbled into his suit.

At that moment, without anyone else around, nothing else mattered but the safety of your arms. And damn, how good it felt to be embraced. Did anyone else get these hugs from you? Idia didn’t think so. He hesitantly lifted his arms up and hugged back.

Looking up at the domed castle ceiling, he wondered what he did to deserve something this good.

It’s okay. I can have this. He allows himself to melt into your arms, head drooping down to rest against your neck.

“G-good thing you weren’t,” he finally whispered back, freezing as he heard you sob against his chest. Oh no, oh no, what do you do when your love interest is crying? Quick, quick, pull up the archive of romantic scenes from your memory.

“Hey, hey, I-I’m okay, you see?” he said, patting your back awkwardly. You let go after releasing another sob to wipe your eyes with your sleeve.

“Sorry I got your suit wet,” you said softly, turning your face away. “I’m really, really sorry about what happened there too.”

“About what?”

“The whole wedding thing...” You took a quick look at him but immediately dropped your gaze to the ground.

Idia blushed. “I-It’s okay! D-don’t worry about it… I-”

Come on, say more! Ugh… I hate myself.

You pulled at our vest and slipped something out of it—an envelope. “I… wanted to tell you everything through a letter.”

Tell me what?

“But… Eliza came and took you before I could give it to you.” You avoided his eyes as your fingers tightened around the white envelope. Idia’s breath hitched, expecting you to crumple it. But to his relief, your fingers relaxed. Then, as if it took all your courage, you handed it to him with a slightly shaky hand.

“It's old-fashioned, I know but yeah... just read it!”

In the hall’s silence, he could hear your breaths quicken once again.

“Th-That’s all I came here for. Goodbye!”

Before he knew it, you were running off. Your arm waved frantically from a distance as every step carried you farther, farther away. He lifted his arm to wave back but you never saw it. You were gone and all he had left was the letter.

His curiosity made him impatient. With fast and purposeful steps, he sprinted on the way to his room. What did he feel? Excitement? Dread? An unpleasant mix of both? His room, feeling farther than usual, was the only safe place he could experience whatever it was.

After a lot of walking and almost slipping over someone’s spilled soda (he cursed the shoes those ghosts made him wear. His very own would never fail him like that), he found himself in front of the doors, which slid open, revealing Ortho already inside.

“You left me there!” Idia huffed.

“Couples need alone time, brother,” replied his brother, innocently blinking.

“Wh-wha… we’re not a couple!”

“Hmm? I could’ve sworn the signs were all there...”

A blushing Idia threw off the silly coat those ghosts made him wear and threw it over his desk chair. He sat on the bed, fingers racing to open the envelope. Ortho watched with great interest as two sheets of paper covered in your handwriting slipped out.

Unfolding the first page, Idia took a deep breath and began reading:

Hey Player 1!

Sorry I couldn’t make it tonight last night. Maybe you can show me your new manga tomorrow? I know how excited you are about it. I’m writing this while Grim’s asleep. He’ll never let me hear the end of it otherwise.

I figured that this would be the best way to communicate my thoughts and feelings. This way, you won’t feel pressured to respond immediately. You can open and read it whenever you’re ready, in the safety of your room. I know it’s old-fashioned. But to me, a handwritten letter feels more personal—like I’m giving you a piece of myself. So here’s that piece of myself. Please, handle it with care.

Beware. I’m about to get sentimental and mushy and cheesy and everything you cringe at! I hope you read on, anyway.

First of all, I want you to know how much I admire you. Right from before we were friends, I was impressed by your intelligence and knowledge with technology. I’ve seen nothing like it back home. I always wondered why you hide yourself and those talents away. My curiosity drove me to want to get to know you. I’m glad I did.

You were closed off. To you, I was just another normie. Do you remember? Your dismissal annoyed me, so I challenged you to a 1v1 match. I thought I was good, but you crushed me. I guess that’s where it started: our friendship… and something else. Soon, I found more and more reasons to admire you. Honestly, I find more with each passing day.

I should have known, right from when songs started to make me think of you, that I was falling. I started to see you as, well, more than a friend. Your quick mind, your expressive hair, your soothing voice, your precious grin… your voice when you talk about things you love, your love of cats, and your candy, and your cold hands… Okay, I think you get the point. But if you have time, I could go on forever.

There’s something different in your eyes when you truly care. You say you’re bad at being sentimental and feel-y, but that’s okay! We express love differently. I see your love pour out in the way you perfect every detail on Ortho’s modifications, anyway. I’m sure he knows how much you love him.

I want you to know how special you are to me. You’re so amazing, Idia. I wish you knew that. I want you to know that.

I know it’s hopeless. You’re the young master to a noble house. I’m just… me. A homeless, magicless foreigner with nothing to my name. Nothing to offer but my feelings (and my superb gaming skills of course). I’m not asking nor expecting to be your special someone. But hey, I can be a top-tier teammate. A worthwhile BG opponent. A movie buddy. And most importantly—a friend.

Our time together has always been a highlight of my difficult stay in NRC. The times we hung out in your room were my refuge from the outside world’s demands. Somewhere I was untouchable and safe from harm. Safe from demeaning remarks. Even if you never get back to this letter and decide you never want to see me again, I will always treasure the matches we played, the movies we watched, the candy we shared, and the memes we laughed over.

That’s all of it, really. Please don’t sleep too late. Watch your sugar intake. Listen to Ortho. Take care of yourself.

Oh, and enjoy your new manga.

Your best raid teammate,

Player 2

Wide amber yellow eyes glistened as they repeatedly flitted over the words. A shaky thumb caressed the smudged ink from where a fallen teardrop marked the paper. Burning different shades at once, fire-hair slowly released itself from the tie it was forced into. Now free, it swathed Idia’s back in warmth like it should.

“Th-This can’t be real!” he sputters as he waved your letter around like he was fanning a bonfire. In a way, he was.

However, Idia knew his hair wasn’t the only thing that kept him warm. He stared at the letter and it stared back. But no matter how many times he blinked, the words remained the same. You felt the same.

“What have I done to unlock this route?” Idia clutched the letter to his chest, but noticed he was wrinkling it. “Nooo!” He quickly smoothed it over again.

“They… they like-like me!” Saying it out loud made it more real. It was a fact! It was true all this time! Thinking of everything you did tonight: rescuing him like a true hero, running after him because you couldn’t keep your feelings secret for much longer… he couldn’t stop himself from swooning.

“Like-like… did you mean love?”

“L-love?” Idia exclaimed. He suddenly felt dizzy, so he fell back onto his bed and talked to the ceiling. “It’s too early for that word!”

But he knew the effect which that word had on him didn’t go unnoticed by Ortho. Well, at least he knew now that Idia wasn’t suffering from an illness. Can love be considered an illness? Idia recalls a documentary that said it was. Back then, he ate that up. Love made people do crazy things, after all.

But ‘illness’ wasn’t an apt word to describe this dizzying happiness surging through him, was it? It was way too wonderful for a word like that.

“I’m so glad the Prefect finally confessed!” Ortho bounced happily, reflecting his brother’s joy. “I knew they would do it soon!”

Mouth hanging open, Idia looked at his brother. “Wait… you knew?”

“I’ve known for a while,” Ortho giggled. “Vitals can’t keep secrets!”

***

Contrary to plan, Idia didn’t touch his video games, nor gorge on candy, nor cry himself to sleep. Instead, he replayed the night’s events in his head over and over like a song he couldn’t get enough of. It had been two hours and thirty-five minutes since he read your letter. Two hours and thirty-five minutes since his world was turned upside down. In his reflection on the dark screen of his off tablet, he almost looked different. He saw someone who was admired. Wanted. Loved.

Was that what you saw whenever you looked at him?

Ortho told him what the next move was: asking you out. He was scared. You might have changed his view of himself a bit, but that didn’t mean he was suddenly ready to go the distance and conquer the world, or whatever those overenthusiastic extroverts say. The night was still too much, and maybe he still needed those three weeks of being a complete hermit.

Okay. Maybe with your help, I'll get there little by little.

Perhaps you could watch a movie in his room... Would you be okay with that? You always hung out with him in there. But what if you wanted to do something outside? Eh, maybe it all didn’t matter, as long as you were together.

When he put on his headphones, he knew which song to choose right away. There was one forgotten song in his music library that he couldn’t bring himself to delete. A love song. It wasn’t a bad one, because Idia would never keep a bad song in his music library. It’s just that the lyrics were too happy—its singer so blissfully in love that it amplified the loneliness that had always been there.

Now playing: “Immortal Flowers” — SERPINA

This time, it’ll be different. Tonight, he puts it on repeat. He listens to it with a head for once clear of uncertainties. Instead, he thinks of fluffy otome scenarios.

That date idea would have to wait. For now, he’ll imagine and dream of you, with your warm smile and open arms—skin basking in the glow of blue fire light.

THE END.

(Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4)

There you have it! Thank you for reading. I had fun writing this 4-part series. Would love to hear some feedback!

Btw, the title of the song Idia listens to at the end comes from “Conversations with Persephone” by Nikita Gill. “What Hades gave me was a crown made for the immortal flowers in my bones.”

#twst x reader #idia x reader #idia shroud x reader #idia shroud #twisted wonderland x reader #twst fic #my work

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forcebewitht · 3 years

Text

You Must Really Be A Diamond...Because You're Still Shining For Me (Aftermath Overblot!Jamil Viper X Reader)

It had now been about an hour or two. Since Jamil fiercely kissed you. Since Jamil went on a rampage with the students as he Overblotted. Since your friends were swatted away like mere flies into the depths of the Scarabia Dorm. But, even still, Jamil kept you by his side and treated you like his little queen. And you, hoping that your friends would come and eventually bail you both out, simply played along. Jamil gave out orders to the Scarabia residents here and there, soon followed up by a sweet remark or brief quip to you. "Bring out the food and drinks! Today, we celebrate the day that simpleton of a sultan was overpowered and made way for someone more capable! Ahhh...I feel so refreshed...I've got an endless supply of magic…[Y/n], darling, won't you be a sweet little thing and tell those peons what you want? It also would make your Sultan very happy to hear your adoring words of praise once more~'' One of the Scarabia residents hung their head low, now groaning out a reply to the prior command like a zombie. Soon, the entire group was groaning out their praises, to which Jamil released a chuckle of triumph. "Hahaha...that's right. Tell me more about myself." Your nerves were shot, but nothing made you jump more than hearing some familiar voices pitch in. "You are incredibly handsome…" That voice belonged to Azul, who very swiftly yet soundlessly seemed to be slinking through the crowd towards you. Once he caught your gaze, he sent you a wink that seemed to relieve your prior stress. Grim was next, gently stepping around the crowds of Jamil's brainwashed Scarabia residents. "Tall...and dark…" Grim almost had a start when he looked at your current appearance, but given a slight head nod from you, he kept his mouth shut and kept going. Next was Jade, who was following closely behind Azul. "Your eyes are so angular...so intelligent…" Next was both Floyd and Kalim, who both flashed you bright smiles to ease your prior anxiety even more. "You're so fashionable~" "You look super strong, you know!" Nodding along with your friends, you gently pet Jamil under his chin. "I'm spellbound." Jamil's lips curled into a grin at you, allowing his head to turn. "Mmmmm...what a wonderful compliment…" Then, the other voices seemed to hit him all at once. His head snapped back over, his eyes widening in shock. "Geh- you're all-"

Jamil seemed utterly shocked to his core as he slowly stood up, having a snake curl around your waist and gently place you on the ground beside his throne. "I sent you all flying into the middle of the desert! How did you get back here so quickly?!" You were silent and quick to slink back over to your friends as they began to explain..well, more like boasting- how they used Kalim's Unique Magic to fill up a river, along with Jade and Floyd's eel forms, to swiftly swim back over. Upon seeing you standing back with your team, Jamil's gaze softened for a moment, as though he was truly hurt. Then, it hardened all over again as he released a growl. Kalim soon stepped up with a determined look, everyone else getting into their battle poses under your direction. "I challenge you, Jamil...for the seat of Dormhead you stole from me. I plan to take it back." Jamil folded his arms, his prior, cold gaze growing even harsher at Kalim's claim. "I stole it? Hmph...big talk! Even though you're the one who stole everything from ME!" You blinked a few times in shock, allowing your head to tilt. There it was again...that same, faint sparkle near Jamil's heart as you had seen with Riddle, Leona, and Azul's hearts before. Like it was calling out to you for help. A sudden burst of power caught your attention, your gaze flicking back up to Jamil's. "Let me show all of you a taste of my true power! AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

And with that, Jamil charged, already heading straight for Kalim. You were swift enough to dodge out of the way as Grim launched a fireball right at Jamil. It shot him right in the chest, the male releasing a grunt at the impact. His snakes flared and all hissed at Grim at the same time. With a swirl of his hand, one of them came off and began to swiftly slither towards Grim. It began to bite at the air, hoping to grasp the monster in its fangs. Grim began to run around in a circle, shouting something about not being a fan of the little pest in terror. Jade and Floyd both stood back to back, the two of them now launching their own attacks at Jamil. Jamil took the one from Jade but swatted the one from Floyd right back at him. The Tweel went flying into a nearby pile of carpets, to which Jade looked back to his twin to check on him. Once he was certain he was alright, given a thumbs up from beneath the carpets from Floyd, Jade continued his prior assault. Right after said attack, Kalim charged for Jamil, the two men now quite literally wrestling on the ground. Snakes began to nip and bite at Kalim, but the red-eyed boy held his ground. Using his Unique Magic, he began to pelt the snakes with water, making them hiss out in pain. Azul was swift to dart over to Grim, taking the head of the snake that was chasing him and crushing it under the bottom of his cane. Grim then turned, and with a battle cry, set the snake on fire. The snake soon dissolved into nothing more than pure ashes, to which Grim and Azul quickly high-fived and shared a smile for their efforts. Jamil soon kicked Kalim off of him entirely, now sending him flying right into the pile of carpets where Floyd had just been crawling out. The two boys collided with each other, now both Floyd and Kalim being within the pile at the same time. A snake curled around Jade's throat, now promptly choking the Tweel out. He began to choke, raising his arms and attempting to pull the snake off of him. You and Azul charged at the same time, Azul swiftly unlodging the snake from Jade's throat with his cane, and you smacked it down onto the ground with a nearby vase you had picked up. Shards of the antique flew everywhere as the snake hissed in pain. Grim charged over once more, setting this snake ablaze like he had with the one before. Once it was nothing more than ashes, Azul held onto Jade with an arm while you fished Kalim and Floyd out of their pile. Soon, your group turned their gazes onto Jamil, and they all began to fire multiple spells at once. Despite his overpowered state, Jamil was vulnerable due to his hysterics, like the others had been before. It didn't take long for Jamil to crouch onto a knee, those sparkles from before now seeming to trickle from within his very heart.

His voice was weak and pained now. "Number...one….I thought...I could finally be free…." Now grasping the light, you arose and dashed to Jamil's side. His eyes weakly flickered up to meet your own. You gently held out your hand with a warm smile. Silence passed over the dorm. While Jamil seemed reluctant at first, he eventually took your hand in his own with a tear in his eye. You took hold of his other hand, now swiftly pulling him to his feet and ripping him towards you in a hug. Though he was taken aback, the male soon hugged you back, tears gently beginning to cascade down his face. Your vision began to turn white as a light was cast over both you and Jamil, making your group cover their eyes. You knew what time it was. Soon, you could see the foggy images and memories begin to play out of Jamil's past, his voice strong and clear despite you feeling like you were underwater. You could hear both his voice as a child's and Kalim's along with him, your form soon being swiftly pulled through the various scenes Jamil's inner self played out. "The earliest memory I have is of my parents bowing their heads in submission to Kalim's parents...I loathed seeing them like that." You turned your head as another memory popped up, one of Jamil's parents telling him to keep a losing streak up to Kalim. Your heart wretched at the sight. Shouldn't parents only wish the best for their children? "Kalim's family is way above my own...which means...he is above me. Therefore, whether it's grades, athletics, or games...I can never allow Kalim to surpass me." The coldness and pain in Jamil's voice as he spoke was undeniable. Your gaze softened even further than it had before, for you could see Jamil's hooded form standing directly beside you now as he kept on speaking. "To keep pace with Kalim, I pretend to be incapable of anything." Another memory of Kalim and Jamil began to play out as the figure of Jamil beside you seemed to stiffen. "...You haven't beaten me. I've been letting you win all along. With that airhead look….pay attention, Mr. Oblivious!" Another memory began to play out, but this time, it was of both Crowley and Kalim speaking. Crowley mentioned something about...a transfer? You soon felt your opinions on Crowley begin to shift. Was he really so easily bought? "Adults always say the same thing. "I'm sure you understand". But, who is going to try and understand me?" Jamil's hooded head soon turned to face you, his body turning to follow suit. He looked exhausted and pained. Kalim's voice soon came through the memory once more. "We have to work together, Jamil! Okay! Ahaha!" Jamil's body and voice began to shake as his eyes were filled with utter rage at the mere sound of Kalim's voice came through. "...E-enough…" Kalim's voice soon came through once more, his voice even brighter than before. "Jamil is the only one who'd never betray me!" Jamil began to shake even more, now beginning to curl in on himself in rage despite standing up. "THAT'S ENOUGH! Kalim, as long as you're there….I-i…I'll have to live my life handing everything over to you! I-i….even I want to be...number...one…" Your lips soon curled into an inviting smile. You turned to face Jamil as the last memory faded out. Taking both of his hands in yours, you beam up at the boy. His gaze soon flickered over to meet yours, silent tears running down his cheeks. But soon, his legs crumbled and he fell to his knees. You caught him and held the male close, allowing him to silently sob in your arms. Your vision soon began to fade to black…..

"Jamil….JAMIL!" Kalim's voice was the first thing you heard as you began to reawaken. Your eyes fluttered open and you turned your head to the side. You and Jamil had both passed out side by side, still holding each other's hands. Soon, you begin to sit up as Jamil did the same. "Ugghhh….my head...where am…" Jamil slowly turned his head to you, then to everyone else. They were all crowded around the two of you. Everyone began to give their relieved statements, Jade and Floyd being the pair to help you stand completely. You hung back as Jamil and Kalim began to teasingly reconcile. Azul even began to praise Jamil on his tactics and intelligence and offered for the male to join Octavinelle, which Jamil declined with a wild smirk. Soon, you made your way over to a nearby fountain and sat down, letting your finger gently trace circles in the water below. The sound of footsteps caught your attention, to which your head turned. It was Jamil, who was now pulling his hood off. His gaze met yours and softened, the male's head now slanting at the sight of your figure. "[Y/n]. If it's not too much for me to ask….may I…" Soon gathering what he meant, you slid over for Jamil to take a seat. Jamil exhaled in relief, now taking his place beside you. His gaze soon trailed back over to the water as he seemed to carefully mull over his words. Thankfully, you were the one to begin to speak first. "If this is about the whole Overblot thing and the...lovely outfit change? Don't worry about it. I was fine." Jamil glanced over, already chuckling at your rather blunt statement. "Ah...you are rather bright. Although, I truly must...apologize for before. And...I know what you saw. What you heard. What you felt. We were both right there, after all. I….did not mean to lose my composure. You may hate me for that, little diamond...I will take it in stride." Jamil placed both of his hands onto his head, allowing his eyes to screw shut. You could have sworn you saw a few tears pricking his eyes. Glancing over to a blossoming vine nearby, you gently pluck a bright jasmine flower from the vine. Turning to Jamil, you learn over, now tucking this jasmine flower into his hair. Jamil's eyes flicker open in shock, his expression now a bit more loving than before. "....What...after all I did...you still…" He seemed to be at a loss for words. You smiled once the flower was in place, now taking both of his hands in your own once again. "Don't you worry, Jamil. I'm here for you. Now and always. Though I can't do anything about your struggles in the past, I can help you push through to the future. I've got your back." Jamil's eyes filled with tears once more, one breaking free from the rest and trickling down his face. He wipes it away with a hand, releasing a breathless chuckle at you. Then, he begins to smirk, now taking another jasmine flower nearby and placing it into your hair. "...Just know I won't go easy on you, either. I'm through with that." Jamil sent you a wink and you allowed your head to slightly tilt back in a laugh. "Ohhh, I didn't think so. I don't think I'd have it any other way. Just, promise me something? Don't turn into Medusa again, okay? Snakes are slimy." Jamil began to laugh right along with you at your quip, the two of you enjoying each other's company for the time being. Once your laughter had died down, you both met each other's gazes. Without a second thought, the two of you seemed to drift towards each other, a sweeter kiss than the one from before being shared. Jamil hummed into your lips as he gently cupped your face with his hands, a breeze being swept over your two forms.

As you both separated, Jamil's gaze had softened once more. "You must truly be a diamond, [Y/n]...because you're still shining for me."

((Hey Hey Hey, everyone! Its finally here! I had a complete and total ball writing this one! The pain yet eventual happiness is real here! Next up will be Aftermath Overblot!Azul Ashengrotto x Reader! Hope you all enjoyed and I hope you have a fantastic day~💖🌹

Fanart Link: https://www.zerochan.net/3013185

#disney twisted wonderland #twisted wonderland #twistedwonderland #disney #jamil viper #jamil viper x reader #overblot jamil #overblot jamil x reader #twisted wonderland x reader #original writing #twst jamil #twisted wonderland jamil

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space-pot8o · 3 years

Text

Inspired by a post by @toedenandbackagain

The advertisements were how they found each other, every once in a while, when the world changed too quickly. The newspaper was the only form of media to remain consistent. There was just too many ways to communicate now, Crowley thought. He’d had a hand in creating the internet, and now the humans were so invested even he could barely keep up with it.

Of course, he had a cell phone, but Aziraphale didn’t. He’d already tried the bookshop’s landline to no avail. It was like the angel was allergic to any technology made after the mid-nineteenth century.

He paid the man at the newspaper stand, scooping up a paper and opening it to the personal adverts as he wound through the crowd. He barely needed to pay attention to where he was going; people just seemed to veer out of his way.

Halfway down the page, he found what he was looking for.

Angel will be feeding ducks at St. James’ Park on Monday at 10am. Company would be appreciated.

“Found you,” Crowley muttered. Or at least, he hoped. The last time he’d been wrong, it had been the most awkward of situations. It was… well, let’s just say there was a reason Crowley didn’t respond to adverts that fit his physical description anymore. Or those looking for an ‘evening companion’, as much as that sounded like a term Aziraphale would use. No, he only responded to ones that specifically said ‘Angel’ now. Less chancy.

Crowley glanced at his watch, the shimmery dark face reading quarter to ten.

“Perfect,” he murmured, snapping the newspaper shut and tucking it under his arm. Aziraphale might like to read it, he supposed. He also supposed that perhaps he should stop talking aloud to himself so much.

Thirteen minutes later, Crowley arrived at St. James’ Park. In the distance, on the bench where they usually met, sat a prim figure with a shock of light hair and a cream colored jacket. One side of his mouth drew back in a grin as he sauntered over, keeping his eyes on the ducks in the pond as he came up beside the bench.

“That one was a bit obvious, don’t you think, angel?”

“It’s Angela, actually.”

Crowley froze, turning to look at the person sitting on the bench, who was not in fact Aziraphale but instead an old lady with pinned up white curls and a glimmer of mischief in her eyes.

“Oh, I suppose I must have mistyped it when I was sending it into the newspaper. I just can’t get the hang of these computers.”

Crowley blinked, glancing around uncomfortably as the shock began to pass.

“I think I’ve answered the wrong advert,” he said, taking a step backwards.

“Oh,” the lady said, her face falling a bit. “Well you’re here, would you like to feed the ducks with me, anyway?”

Crowley hesitated. As disappointed as he was that it wasn’t his angel, there was something compelling about her.

“Well alright, I suppose,” he heard himself say as he sank down onto the bench beside her.

“Here you go, dear,” she said, handing him a chunk of bread from the bag beside her. He accepted it as she threw a handful of crumbs into the water.

“My best friend Peggy just passed away, you see, and feeding the ducks used to be a regular outing for us, especially as we got older. I only put the ad in the paper because I don’t have too many friends left and I’m just at such a loss without Peggy.”

She gave Crowley a sideways glance.

“It seems to me you feel the same way without whoever you meant to meet here, your angel, considering how disappointed you were to find me instead.”

Crowley gave a noncommittal shrug, shifting uncomfortably. She was right, of course, but he wasn’t going to admit that.

“The ducks seem to like you though, don’t they?” Angela continued. “Do you come here often dear? I swear they remember faces. They would certainly remember Peggy every time, though I think she was coming here to feed them long before we started coming together.”

She threw a bit more bread in the water.

“Oh, that reminds me.” She reached for her bag. “Would you like a sandwich, dear?” I brought an extra, it was always for Peggy, she was always running around and I swear she would never stop to eat unless I made her.”

She pulled out a paper-wrapped square, which Crowley accepted reluctantly. He would have refused, but there was something in the woman’s eyes that warned him against fighting too hard.

He unwrapped the paper, revealing a ham and cheese sandwich on good homemade bread. He took a bite to be polite, and Angela smiled.

“There’s a good boy. You’re quite a skinny one, aren’t you? You remind me of Peggy’s husband when he was young, only you’re much taller. Of course, that was before the war.” She trailed off, tossing another handful of bread to the eager ducks.

Crowley took another bite of the sandwich, surprising himself. Usually Aziraphale was the only one who could get him to eat.

“I just realized I never got your name, dear,” Angela said, turning back to look at him.

“Anthony,” he replied after a moment, deciding Crowley would be too hard to explain. “Though not many people call me that.”

“Oh yes,” Angela replied. “I know how that is. My given name is Angela, but I’ve never met someone who didn’t call me Angie instead.”

Crowley nodded. Nicknames were such a human thing, he thought. You have one name but everyone just calls you something else.

“Some people have called me Tony,” he said slowly, trying not to show his distaste. “You could call me that instead.”

Angie glanced over, her eyes shrewd.

“You don’t strike me as a Tony,” she replied. “Anthony suits you just fine, I think.”

Crowley relaxed a bit at her words.

“One of Peggy’s friends had a son named Anthony,” Angie continued. “Now he was someone better suited as a Tony. I always felt the name Tony was meant for a troublemaker, but that doesn’t seem like you at all. But young Tony, he can’t seem to stay out of trouble. I think he does it on purpose. No, you’re much too polite to be a Tony.”

Crowley’s eyes narrowed behind his glasses. Where had this woman been for the last six thousand years? Under a rock? Crowley, polite. What a concept. Though, he supposed, Aziraphale would likely agree with her.

“My angel keeps telling me I’m a good person,” he said, tossing some bread into the pond. “I’m not inclined to believe it, though.”

“Why ever not?” Angie replied. “You seem perfectly nice to me.”

Crowley did his best to ignore the uncomfortable prickle her words sent over his skin.

“My job… it requires me to do some things, that most people would agree, do not make me a nice person.”

Angie was silent for a moment.

“And it’s not like I hurt anyone, of course not,” Crowley continued. “I just… inconvenience them.”

“Does it bother you?”

“What?” He jerked his head up.

“Does it bother you,” Angie repeated, “That you do these things? That some people might think you’re bad?”

Crowley blinked, truly stumped for the first time in four hundred years.

“I mean, it’s my job,” he replied. “It’s who I am.”

“Oh, psh,” Angie replied, waving her hand. “I can’t even count anymore the number of times I’ve had this very conversation with Peggy. Her job always had her doing these questionable, dangerous things. I’m not sure her employers cared about the means as long as she got to their end. It wore on her, too. But you are not defined by your job, you are defined by what you care about. Now I’ll ask you again, does it bother you?”

“I suppose it bothers me that I don’t feel like I live up to my angel’s view of me,” he admitted. And it was true. He never felt as good on the inside as Aziraphale seemed to think he was.

“Well then, there you are. Bad people, truly bad people, don’t care about being better. So from what you’ve just told me, that proves you’re not a bad person.

Crowley froze again as her words washed over him. Never, in all his time on earth or in hell, had he ever considered that. He still wasn’t inclined to believe her, but she said it with such conviction that he couldn’t help but wonder if it was true.

Angie glanced at him again, her gaze shrewd but soft.

“Surely if that’s what I see, your angel sees it too.”

It was all Crowley could do to nod.

They sat together a while longer, Angie telling stories about the trouble she and Peggy got into after the war. Crowley nodded and made the appropriate remarks required for polite conversation, and he found himself actually enjoying her stories.

All these years, he’d never bothered to connect with a human. They seemed so dull, and their lives were over so quickly. He hadn’t thought it was worth it. Besides, he had Aziraphale and that friendship was plenty for him.

About an hour later, their stock of bread was finally depleted. The ducks, of whom a great number had congregated on the water before them, began to disperse once they realized the supply of treats had run dry.

Angie dusted off her coat, watching the ducks swim away with a sigh. Crowley glanced at her, but her gaze was fixed across the pond somewhere in her memories.

“I know I wasn’t who you were hoping to meet,” she told him. “But I am glad to have met you. You’ve made me feel a bit less lonely just when the world was starting to seem big and empty. Thank you, Anthony, truly.”

He shifted in his seat.

“Well I suppose… well, I could meet you here again. If you’d like.”

“I would,” Angie said, her blue eyes misty as she gave him an enormous smile. “Same time next Monday?”

Crowley gave her a nod, stretching out his legs as she stood.

“Goodbye, Anthony. See you then.”

He watched her totter off down the path until she was out of sight, then turned back towards the water. What an odd turn of events, he thought. What she’d said to him ran through his mind as he sat there, waiting to see if perhaps his angel would still show.

For the next seven Mondays, without fail, Crowley would meet Angie at the park to feed the ducks and listen to stories about her life. She enjoyed talking about her adventures with her friend Peggy more than anything, which Crowley was surprised to find sounded a lot like some of his adventures with Aziraphale; In particular, one dicey evening involving a church, some German spies, and a few rare books.

One morning, on the eighth Monday in fact, Crowley was early. He sat on their usual bench, waiting for Angie to appear around the corner, when he felt a presence beside him. He turned his head slightly to the right, just enough to see a flash of cream coat, and his mouth tugged into a grin.

“Hello, Angie,” he said, turning his eyes back to the pond.

“Hello, my dear Crowley.”

Crowley froze. He knew that voice, and it certainly wasn’t Angie.

“Trying out a new nickname, are we?”

He whipped his head around to see Aziraphale standing there, looking ethereal in the morning light.

“Er, no,” he replied. “What are you doing here?”

“I was walking by and I saw you sitting alone. Are you alright?”

“I’m fine, angel,” he replied, the words coming out a bit harsher than he intended. He wasn’t sure why, but he didn’t really want to tell Aziraphale about Angie.

“Alright,” Aziraphale replied, his face falling the tiniest bit. “I’ll leave you be. I’ll be at the bookshop later, if you feel like catching up. Perhaps we can get a bite to eat.”

“No wait, I’m sorry, you don’t have to go,” Crowley straightened abruptly, catching Aziraphale’s sleeve.

“Are you sure? I don’t want to disturb you.”

“Sit down, angel.”

Aziraphale took a seat beside him, settling in as he always did.

“Are you quite sure you’re alright?” He asked again, glancing at Crowley worriedly.

“I’m fine, I told you. I just come here sometimes to¬—”

“Anthony! There you are.

Crowley’s adrenaline spiked again as he turned to see Angie making her way up the path towards them.

“I see you’ve brought a friend today. I wish you would have warned me so I could have made an extra sandwich. Here’s yours, by the way— honestly, do you live on air, Anthony? You’re still so skinny.”

She paused for breath and handed him the paper wrapped sandwich.

“It’s nice to meet you, I’m Angie,” she said as she took her seat on his left, reaching out her hand to Aziraphale.

He shook it, his expression still dumbfounded as he glanced back and forth between the two of them.

“Angie, this is my friend, Aziraphale,” Crowley told her.

“A.Z. Fell? Oh, you own that lovely little bookshop in Soho, don’t you? I’ve been meaning to stop in there for ages, but it never seems to be open when I drop by.”

Crowley could sense Aziraphale relaxing at the mention of the bookshop, and he let out a quiet breath of relief.

“Here you go, Anthony dear, I daresay these ducks have waited long enough,” she said, handing him a chunk of bread.

He threw some in the water, handing a piece to Aziraphale as well.

“Oh, here comes that swan again,” she told him, throwing bread in the opposite direction from where the white monstrosity was silently gliding towards them.

Aziraphale tossed his crust of bread towards it, and the giant bird slowly began to sink. He jabbed Crowley in the side with his elbow, and the swan resumed bobbing on the surface.

“You know, two weeks ago that naughty bird came right up and stole my bread bag right out of my hand. Anthony jumped right up and tried to get it back, and the poor dear almost fell in the pond! It was quite a sight, though, to see him fighting a swan in the middle of St. James’ park.” She let out a laugh. “But he’s always doing such nice things like that, he chased my hat when it flew away and he’s always helping me around puddles and such.”

Crowley sank a bit lower in his seat, his ears reddening as he saw a small smile of amusement on Aziraphale’s face.

“Cr—Anthony is such a nice person, I tell him all the time but he doesn’t believe me,” Aziraphale replied, casting a kind look at Crowley, who was presently trying to sink through the bench and the ground and down to somewhere he could escape this embarrassment.

He shot an irritated look at Aziraphale, who simply smiled back.

“Oh that reminds me, Anthony, I brought this for you,” Angie said, reaching into her bag to pull out a long, cream colored scarf. “It’s getting colder every day and you’re all skin and bones, you must get dreadfully cold and I don’t want you getting sick.”

Crowley took the scarf, reluctantly looping it around his neck. Aziraphale’s amused smile returned as Crowley shot him a look— one he knew the angel would understand even if he couldn’t see his eyes, that dared him to say anything about it.

Of course he wouldn’t get sick, but he wasn’t going to tell Angie that, nor was he going to hurt her feelings. She continued telling stories and Crowley began to relax as Aziraphale joined in the conversation. He smiled, thankful that the worst of the awkwardness had passed. He threw a handful of bread to the ducks, only half paying attention to the conversation for a few minutes until Angie leaned forwards a bit towards Aziraphale, reaching over to pat his perfectly manicured hand.

“I’m so glad he finally brought you to meet me, my dear. Of course, he’s told me so much about his angel I feel as though I know you already.”

Crowley’s eyes widened behind his glasses. He didn’t dare look at Aziraphale, though he was sure the angel’s smile mirrored Angie’s.

“Ngh,” he said, crossing his arms and shifting uncomfortably, wishing very much in that moment that he was elsewhere.

“Oh, you’re just like Peggy,” Angie chastised. “She was always so easy to rile. Very well, I’ll leave it alone if only so you stop looking like you’re trying to hide inside yourself. Here, feed the ducks some more.” She handed him another piece of bread, which he accepted.

“But really, Mr. Fell, you’ll have to tell me more about this knitting club. I could always use more good friends like Anthony.”

Aziraphale obliged as Crowley sat and listened, nodding and replying every once in a while as would be polite in a conversation between friends. The three of them sat happily on that sunny Monday morning and fed the ducks, as they did on every Monday that came after.

#good omens #good omens x marvel #fanfiction #feeding the ducks #I added a link to my wattpad on the off chance you’d like to see more of my writing

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foodieforthoughts · 3 years

Text

Sand and Stars - Prologue

Series Summary: After the water pump being blown up, the insurgents in Baqubah are taking a hold of the food supply to the village. Camp Warhorse is in dire need of reinforcements. It has been eight months of submitting countless requests when the High Command commissions Sergeant Olivia Ross to take her group of men and women and help Captain Syverson and his team to restore a semblance of normalcy. But with the war raging, does it get two hearts closer too?

Pairing: Captain Syverson x OFC x OMC

Word Count: 1925

Warnings: 18+, Mentions of war, military technicalities, smut in future chapters

A/N: This (x) has finally taken birth. I am very excited about this fic, it is literally the only thing I can focus on right now. A big thanks to @thelastsock for beta-ing this. Sending her lot of love and good health, always. Please don’t come down on me if I have gotten any of the army-related things wrong, because this is a work of fiction.

Title: Prologue

Olivia Ross was everything but a heavy sleeper. She slept like a feral cat ready to jump at even the slightest bit of disturbance. And that is why she was wide awake at 3 a.m.

The sound of Alex’s snores, deep and rumbling, echoed from beside her. A strong arm was draped tightly over her torso-his bull’s head tattoo peeking out from under his sleeve. Olivia looked to her side and sighed.

She hated sneaking out of his room the next day. The walk of shame she could take-her squad mates were already bored by the gossip of yesteryears-but the imminent questioning that Alex would barrage her with later, was what broke her.

Carefully, Olivia moved his arm from over her body and slid out from the bunk bed they were sharing. She watched as Alex turned to the other side and a moment later, continued snoring; oblivious to the loss of bodily warmth from besides him.

Grabbing her discarded clothes piled on the floor and hurriedly pulling them on, Olivia grabbed her dog tags from the table. Her eyes also fell on the other chain lying on the metal desk; a Saint Christopher Medal in a silver chain which Alex had gotten for her the last time he had flown home. Reluctantly, she grabbed the chain and wore it with her dog tags and swiftly snuck out of the Captain’s room.

As soon as Olivia was out in the corridors of the Baghdad base camp, the sweet noise of military men going about their duties graced her ears. She looked around as she made her way towards the ladies quarters; some of the men were loading up their Humvees for a patrol around the city, a few of them out for their morning run and then there were others like her who were hurrying away to reach their beds.

Closing the door to her quarters, Olivia was met with two sets of narrowed eyes looking at her. “Busy night there, Sergeant Ross?” The smugness in their voices, nothing new but annoying nonetheless, made Olivia roll her eyes.

“Aren’t you guys supposed to be sleeping?” She laid on her bed-her legs dangling from the ends-feeling relaxed more than she was when sleeping next to Alex.

A loud bang on the hard metal door interrupted them. A young private recruit peaked inside, her cheeks going red as she came face to face with her seniors.

Raising her head from her bed, Olivia looked at the blushing Private edging around the door. “What is it, Private?”

“Uhm…”

“You need to speak faster, sister. No one’s going to be waiting that long for you to finish your sentences.” Sergeant Sloan, a blond beauty with Victoria’s Secret model’s look, said from her bunk on the other side of the room.

“I was told to get Sergeant Ross to Lieutenant Crowley.”

Olivia nodded at the soldier and she hurried out, closing the door behind her. “What does Crowley want?”

“Hopefully, he sends us somewhere. I’m tired of looking at the same old shaved heads around here.” Corporal Sierra said from her corner of the room. Both the ladies laughed at their joke, Sloan snorting while laughing and Sierra basking in her comedic skills. Olivia smiled looking at her fellow bunk mates, loving their laughter ringing in the dilapidated and make-shift room.

After taming her wild bed hair into a braid and pulling on a fresh set of clothes to meet the lieutenant, Olivia made her way towards the central meeting hub. Lieutenant Crowley was a balding man in his late fifties, irritating beyond belief and the epitome of a male chauvinist. Olivia looked at him while he shuffled through his folders and pulled out one to hand over to her.

“You need to go to Baqubah.” His nasally voice ordered, his height an inch shorter than hers.

“Sir?” Olivia looked down at the brown manila folder in her hand. Camp Warhorse was written below the bold printed letters of Baqubah.

“They had a water problem which was not fixed and now the militants have been targeting the food supply trucks entering the city.” He pulled out another folder from underneath the table, handing it to her with a grunt. “They need air support, but Command wants us to only send one. You can take the Little Bird and two Humvees with any twelve members for your unit. I’m making you responsible for the mission.”

“What are we to do there? Can’t we just drop food rather than driving it in-?” Olivia opened the first folder to find a letter of co-ordinates and sitreps from the Captain stationed at the camp.

“They have asked for help. You’ll meet with the Captain there and gauge the situation personally. Is that clear, Sergeant?”

When anyone pulls rank on the other, it usually means the conversation is over. So, Olivia with her two manila folders, nodded at Lieutenant Crowley and turned to walk away. “Sergeant, you leave in two hours.”

Perfect. She turned to nod at the Lieutenant who had already sat down to get back to his work.

Olivia made her way back towards the quarters from the hub. The base camp looked more alive now that almost everyone was awake. Loud music blared from the speakers with shirtless men playing basketball or getting their daily workout in. Olivia opened the folder and took the first paper in her hand; it was a sitrep from eight months ago from Captain Syverson about the blast at the water pump they were supposedly fixing. She went through the report, noticing Sergeant Harper’s name whom she personally knew from a previous mission.

Lost in her task at hand, Olivia missed the man coming her way and bumped into him, her steps faltering behind with the impact. When she looked up, the unmistaken glare of two narrowed blue-green eyes met her own. She let out a sigh even before he could speak another word.

“Captain Cooper,” She greeted the man whom she had only left a couple of hours ago. “Good morning.”

“You snuck out, again.” The harshness in his voice made Olivia remember why she despised this particular exchange of words in the morning. Alex, unlike the state she had left him in, was now dressed in his army pants and the beige army t-shirt with his hair groomed to the nines. Never a day did Alex show up with disheveled hair and unshaven, he was always the well-groomed kind of man that romance novels idealized about.

“Crowley wanted me for a briefing,” she showed him the folders, “We leave for Baqubah in under two hours. Going to be delivery guys for them.”

Alex scrunched his eyebrows as his attention from last night’s shenanigans were drawn to the mission at hand. He took the folders from her and shifted through the papers. “Baqubah? Wasn’t there an unsuccessful mission already?”

The change in his tone, from the attention seeking friend to a decorated military man, made Olivia realize why she had fallen for him in the first place. It was that very dedication to his work, the life choice that he had made, that had made her pursue him like an eagle does it’s prey.

Too bad the eagle realized it wasn’t really hungry.

“Liv?” Alex asked, the long lashes lining his eyes fluttering as he looked at her.

“Yeah, but there’s an insurgence of militants and food supply shortage.” He handed the folders back to her, crossing his arms over his chest. The sleeve of his t-shirt stretched over his muscles, revealing the tattoos on either side of his arms. A single vein stretched over each of his bulging biceps, taunting her with the memories of her tracing it with her fingertips.

Olivia shook her head, choosing to look behind Alex and spotting her unit coming her way. “I need to go. I haven’t even told my people.” She started to walk away when Alex held her wrist. She looked at him wide-eyed and frantically looked around to see if anyone was looking at them. This was the first time Alex was being so forthcoming about their twisted relationship out in the open.

“Were you going to at least say goodbye?”

Olivia froze hearing the pain in his voice. She did not wish to discuss whatever was going on between them. In a deep corner of her mind, she was secretly happy that she was being sent away from the base camp. It meant she could think about a way to gently let Alex know that they were done.

“Alex,” the use of his informal name, always made him smile. Olivia used it to her advantage on more than one occasion. “We need to head out. I need to brief them. Please can we do this later?”

She wanted to wait for his answer but when her eyes darted to the makeshift clock hanging on the wall, that the men had put together one night after getting drunk on local liquor, showed she had over an hour and half to roll out; Olivia mouthed a ‘sorry’ and walked away. She hated when she left Alex standing like that, alone and dejected. She was the cause of this shit-show, but she had no idea how to end it.

“Groundhog, this is echo 1-1, we are set to fly out the nest. Over.” Sergeant Gary Schmidt, Olivia's most trusted co-pilot, said into the communications line. They had gathered a group of twelve soldiers, including Olivia’s bunk mates Sloan and Sierra and were now ready to leave for Camp Warhorse. The blades of their chopper, the beautiful and reliable MH-6 Little Bird, whirred by cutting the dry air of Baghdad.

“This is Groundhog to Echo 1-1. You are cleared for flight. Over.”

Olivia looked to her right at Schmidt and gave a thumbs up. “Echo 1-1 is flying out. Welcome on board, people.” She said into her comms, controlling the stick and feeling the skids lift off from the ground.

In an unplanned glance towards the tarmac, Olivia caught sight of Alex standing a few feet away with his face impassive; lips pursed tight and eyes covered with shades, the last thing Olivia saw before they flew off from the Baghdad Base Camp.

“What a dump of desert and sand, Red.” Schmidt said into the comms to her, making her smile being referenced by her nickname and distracting her from the unsettling feeling she had by looking at Alex. Her command officer had jokingly compared her hair to fire after one heated argument she had with a fellow soldier and called her ‘Red’, making the name become a core part of her identity. “Baqubah better be forgiving.” Schmidt continued as they turned towards the road leading up to the destroyed city.

An hour into the flight and their comms came alive. “This is Warhorse to Echo 1-1.” Olivia looked at her co-pilot and nodded her head to take over the communications. In the distance, over the expanse of the dry desert, the heat was coming down hard on them, making little beads of sweat form on the underside of their helmets.

“Echo 1-1, receiving, over.”

“Echo 1-1, this is Captain Syverson,” the previous emotionless voice was replaced by a strongly accented one. Olivia was borderline impressed by Syverson's command in his voice. She looked at Schmidt at the same time he did-they always referred to each other as ‘twins’ because their minds were almost always in sync. “The tarmac is ready for your landing. Welcome to Warhorse.”

Chapter One>

✨Series Masterlist✨

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capri-ramblings · 4 years

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I don’t know if you’re still doing requests but if so, I reallly liked the not wanting a child one with Vil Leona and Malleus. Could you do it with Lilia, Rook, Azul, Floyd, and riddle? If you have time? If that’s too many people than just Azul, Rook and lilia. Only if you’re able to. Thank you. Have a nice day. 💖💖💖

Oh boi this was challenge but I love how it turned out! Sometimes when writing dialogues for the boys,I hear their Japanese voices and the struggle of needing to find the English equivalent to that hurts my braincells 😂😂 I'm looking at you, Floyd (눈‸눈) Lmao but really,I enjoyed writing this, so thank you for requesting this! Hope you all like it as much as I do ♥️ imsorryriddlegotangstyandimblackbutlertrash

Warning; Toxic relationships and mentions of physical abuse

Lilia Vanrouge

- He's planned this the moment he realized he wanted to be with you! Children are a hassle, true, but the thought of being the father to your child made Lilia want to run in circles.

- He was aware of how you often avoided the question though,and unlike Malleus, he was more patient as he slipped in small hints and tested the waters. Seeing which part of the topic took you off.

- Lilia, ancient and wise, believed that if he pushed you the wrong way, nothing good would come out of it. You'd be unhappy and an unhappy mother would lead to an unhappy child, and that's the last thing he'd want.

- Lilia sees the image of him standing beside you with your three children almost every single time he looks at you, and he knows happiness is key!

- So,he pampers you and he studies you. Every single reaction you give him, he digests it then analyses it and finally forms an approach.

- The two of you were in his manor's library when he went into the conversation, and as he expected you were trying to divert the whole topic.

- "I'm practically a child myself, I don't think I can handle such a responsibility...I'm sorry,Lilia" You hung your head low,averting his gaze when he came up beside you.

- Lilia was always hard to read. He wore the exact same expression most of the time and even when he's in a whole other mood, it doesn't show.

- When he intertwined your fingers with his though, a slight sense of relief washed over you and a small smile curved on your lips when Lilia pecked your cheek.

- "But little lantern, having small candles beaming through the manor would be pleasant in a way wouldn't it? I'd especially spend more time here with them" His voice was so soothing then, you could never have sensed the sourness in it at all. The way he simply and casually carried his aloof air around you, and had you feeling a sensational warmth from the way his hand held yours.

- You were clueless to the fact he was spinning you into a web. One you'd never be able to escape from.

- "And think of the things you could teach them about your world! Or how anyone can do anything despite having no magic"

- "Doesn't that bother you though? Our children not having magic?"

- The word 'Our' perked his ears. Lilia smiled, feigning an innocence you were too naive to see was rehearsed.

- "It doesn't. Any child from you is magic already."

- "You say that, but you could have children as strong as Malleus if I wasn't a simple human"

- Ah, that's when Lilia's plans ticked perfectly.

- "It's because you're human I want to have children with you,little lantern"

- "I'm here with you now because despite being considered someone defenceless against mages, you've proved yourself to be just as capable as the next student, even more so actually! You're a mystery,my love bird. Don't you see that?"

- You didn't. Of course not. You came from a place where magic was a fairytale, nothing but fiction. Twisted Wonderland was a place you had to struggle even more to be able to have your own footing and none of your trials were easy.

- He saw you as someone so special despite that? Your heart clenched at his words.

- And that's how he gets to you. He doesn't try it once and forces you into it when you refuse. No, Lilia simply keeps pushing.

- He'll make you feel as if you were no different to him or the other Twisted Wonderland residents who wielded powers you can't.

- His words would coo in your head whenever you doubted that a child of yours would do well in this version of the world.

- "They'll have you as a mother after all. Strong and reliable,they won't have any problems you couldn't fix!"

- "Bullied? You wouldn't allow such a thing in the first place"

- "Imagine them having eyes just like yours. Maybe then you'd be able to see how fiery your spirit is!"

- Lilia knows you all too well. Your lack of joy when talking about children came from the fact you were afraid you couldn't be good at it. Poor thing, being constantly dogged at by Crowley to run errands that drained you with exhaustion and confronting people who thought magic made them powerful. It's no wonder you feel numb from it.

- Oh,but no worries. His plan is perfect, and plays well for both of you.

- You don't want a child because you feared it being neglected? He'll just change that image of yours.

- On the day, you wake up to the sound of a baby crying and realized it was simply from a dream, you swear you've never felt so empty before. So, incomplete.

- Lilia doesn't bring up the subject of children for a while and it makes you anxious. Did he not want them anymore? Did your constant refusal made him give up on that? Give up on you?

- Your thoughts would run wild until you find yourself wrapping your arms around Lilia, teary eyed and apologizing as if the words had been burned into your throat and you desperately wanted it out before you lost your voice.

- And Lilia being the ever so gentle,ever so understanding lover, would hold you. Cooing to you as he plays with your hair softly.

- He'll ask you what was wrong, the hue in his gaze shifting when you stare deeply into them and you'll shed tears.

- "It's okay,my sweet" He coos, smiling, despite your sorrow weighing down the room. "Why don't you tell me what's wrong?"

- Lilia takes the long route to having children but it's all worth the wait when he sees you smiling lovingly at the newborn child in your arms as you gesture to the five year old next to you to come see their younger sibling.

- "Mommy,look, same eyes as you!" Cheered the child, and you perk up at the sight. Lilia was right, children were perfect remedies to a tired soul.

Azul Ashengrotto

- The thought of children,at first, terrified him. It'd be like trying to leash two more Floyds, wouldn't it? But then Jade mentioned that having children was similar to having a contract and something just clicked in his head.

- If he impregnated you, it'd be harder to run from him, right? And when he was truly a father then you'd have to look up to him to care for both you and the child, right?

- Of course! How didn't he see this sooner? What a fool.

- Azul would be hellbent on wanting a child and he'd try his hands at it multiple times, and was equally disappointed each time since all you ever did was refuse.

- "Kids are too hard to handle. We'd both be busy, and I don't think even Jade would have time to juggle them around when we can't." You sounded so bitter, so disapproving. It made Azul feel all dejected, as if you were just disgusted at the thought of having his seed inside of you.

- From then on,Azul starts to mope. His cool composure slips from time to time and it gets too often that Jade has to handle most of the clients. He'll pull a face when you ask him what's wrong and harshly tells you to leave him alone

- He's hurt,but he doesn't want to say it and he frustratingly tries to wrap his head around a plan to make his desire come true, playing out multiple routes in his mind to find a weak spot he could probe you with.

- "Why don't you want a child?" Azul asked you this right after closing Mostro Lounge. There's a hint of sorrow in his blue gaze when you come to meet it, and you wonder if you were too blunt with your answer.

- You shifted on your feet, something you did out of habit, and Azul took note of how out of place you seemed.

- "Cause I don't think either of us are ready?" You answer and in a split second, Azul's sorrow sharpened into irritation and you could just feel how badly that answer set him off.

- "Was that supposed to be an answer or a question?"

- "Azul, I don't want to fight over this." You reach out a hand to place on his shoulder, but he slapped it away with surprising speed and the hit leaves you slightly stunned. He'd never hit you before.

- "It's someone else isn't it?" He asked, almost a murmur. The way his gaze seemed to latch onto you then gave off an unsettling feeling.

- "You're seeing someone else,aren't you? That's why you don't want to have kids with me."

- "Azul,what are you—"

- He moved swiftly, but when his hands came to grip you by your shoulders, his nails sunk into your skin and his lips snarled at you.

- "Who is it? Tell me or I can't promise I won't hurt you right now." His rage practically frothed and you found no words to compensate for your lack of comprehension of the situation.

- "I don't care if it's Jade or Floyd. I'll take out anyone who wants to take you away from me!"

- Your lips parted,to speak perhaps, but Azul silenced you with his spiteful stare.

- "You're mine, aren't you? Why won't you just admit it? Why won't you just accept me already?"

- You thought the pain was from the words he threw at you; Sharp it resembled a hit from a whip,but then your vision had blurred and you were coughing up dry air it made your lungs hurt to take in anymore. Then you felt something run down the side of your lips, and only then did you realized Azul had thrown you right across the room and the wall collided against your body.

- There was a scream, so filled with frustration it wrecked your entire being you had to curl up in a ball before a strangled whimper came from your lips.

- "You're taking everything from me" Azul said, his still gaze watching your crumpled form. He sounded distant as if he wasn't really there, yet when he came over to cup your face with his hands, he had felt so real it hurt to look.

- You were so broken in his grasp then, he was sure you didn't even know where such anger came from, then again Azul was always aware of how reluctant you were in your relationship. You were with him only because he stirred you up in a contract. You never really did loved him as much as he loves you.

- The rising pleasure of being able to make you go through at least a portion of the pain he had to go through was surprisingly pleasant to have.

- He laughed before pulling your face close to his,nose almost touching. "Look how beautiful you are when you don't run your mouth or fight back", the words came in a coo yet you shivered from it.

- "I could make us the happiest couple in the world,you know. Our children would be the best among the best." Azul placed a lingering kiss on your lips, the scent of your blood edging him on. When you weakly tried to pull away, he gripped harder and bit your cheek until it bled and you were letting out small whimpers.

- "Don't cry,my sweet small seashell. If it hurts, I'm here for you. I'll make everything okay again. So, stop crying,I don't want our night of conceiving to be filled with tears."

Rook Hunt

- "Little Lamb, aren't you well enough to give me children?"

- You were merrily drinking tea when this question came out of the blue.

- Rook stood behind the chaise you were sitting on, his arms gracefully enveloping you in an embrace as his breath grazed your skin. He smelled of the forest right after rain, and his words left you rather stunned.

- "In the letter I received from Vil, he and his small hare were planning on having children of their own", he bent down slightly, enough to place a kiss on your cheek before he went around the chaise and faced you. The smile he wore rivalled the morning sun itself.

- You tried to collect your thoughts, tried to piece up the right words to tell him that you simply did not want children. In the end though,you decided it was better to just come out and say it.

- "Rook—"

- "Yes,my love?" His eyes seemed to beam, and Rook's eyes always beamed but this time, it was as if he had been playing the scene of your children running around the halls of his manor the entire day. Mesmerized was the word you'd use to describe it. Your chest tightened at the thought of breaking that dream of his. But you had to tell him...This was something you truly didn't want.

- "I don't want children,Rook." Blunt and precise, the words came from you without hesitation, and in that piercing second that held the room in silence, Rook felt his heart sank into the metallic jaws of disappointment. A mighty bear caught in the savage claws of man's horrid trap.

- He blinked. Once, then twice. By the third blink, you were already regretting your refusal and desperately searched for a way to amend for it.

- Unfortunately for you,Rook had already taken great damage, and as a result, he completely shrugged off your comment.

- "It would be splendid, wouldn't it? I would teach our sons to hunt and our little princess would have an entire garden built for her!"

- "Rook, didn't you hear—"

- "Yes! I can see it already! Our family would be such a joy to have!"

- You stood up then, exasperated by how delusional he sounded. You knew he didn't like the answer you gave him but to just pretend as if he hadn't listen! Just when you were about to turn on your heels to speak your mind,Rook stood as well, swiftly without a sound, and with the strength of a seasoned hunter he gripped you firmly by the waist and hoisted you up into the air.

- Your scream lodged in your throat and blood rushed to your head. Instinctively you held onto his hands, but when your eyes finally locked onto his, the deep-set emerald of his gaze turned luscious and vicious all at the same time and your words lost their volume.

- His lips curled, deliberately coy. When he lowered you and pressed your lips against his, your body flinched.

- "You'll give me good children,won't you?", he murmured before another kiss stole your breath again.

- "My precious dove, you'll make a fine mother."

Floyd Leech

- "Nee,nee, little shrimp,let's have kids,okay?" Floyd threw his arms around you as casually as always but the words he had said with the same amount of casualness was what staggered you on your feet.

- His sharp teeth bared,lips pulled into a grin, Floyd eyed you with great interest.

- You returned it with a terrified look.

- "No." You blurted out before even thinking, and Floyd frowned faster than he had grinned.

- "Why?" Flat and practically monotonous, his question sent a chill down your spine and you bit your lip out of habit.

- Floyd had always been unpredictable, mostly because he acted on how he felt rather than thinking it through first, and that's how you saw this whole situation. Maybe someone had said something, or maybe he met up with Cheka and somehow thought it would be nice to have kids, but he didn't really meant it. Right?

- "Nee,why don't you want kids?" He repeated his question, inching closer to you as you tried to avoid any physical trigger that would set him off. The mer-male had a tendency to bully you whenever you showed him any hint of feeling inferior to him, and that often ended with Jade having to tend to the 'love marks' he left behind on your body.

- "Why do you want kids anyway?" You shot back, minding how your tone sounded while still seeming firm. "They take up a lot of time you know? I'd have to pay more attention to them than to you"

- At the statement, Floyd arched his brows. The distant look in his eyes told you he was having a thought before his expression turned lax.

- "That's okay, I'll be there anyways so it's no big deal"

- "What?"

- "Hm? I'm telling you it's okay,little shrimp. Even Jade said he'd help around if it gets too much"

- He snaked his arms around your waist,pulling you real close to his chest until he could squeeze you tight.

- "It'll be fun,won't it?"

- Your body reacted before you could even comprehend anything, and it was only after you heard the dull thud of Floyd's back hitting the wall did you realized you had pushed him away.

- "You pushed me" He said this so softly, you thought you only heard it in your head but then he lifted his gaze and the mismatched orbs held such malice, your stomach lurched.

- "Floyd,I'm sorry...I didn't mean it, I just—"

- "Shut up. You're really pissing me off. " He elicited the words,each enunciation cut into sharp edges of glass scraping against your skin you wanted to close your eyes and run away from the whole thing.

- But with Floyd,if you ran, it meant you'd already lost.

- "What's with you? I ask all nicely and hug you and stuff, and you're pushing me? Jade said you didn't like kids but I told him that if it was with me you'd definitely say yes, cause after all, you're my little shrimp right?"

- You opened your mouth to speak, to say anything to avoid him having a tantrum, but Floyd let out a low growl and cut you off before you could.

- "Ah,I'm annoyed now. You should've just said yes but now...Now,I want you to come here"

- He opened his arms, the look in his eyes a spiral of aggression that shredded through your nerves.

- "I said come here,___, or you're gonna make me even more angry"

- You hated the way your body reacted to him. How it felt like you were a ghost in your own body as you watched yourself obey him.

- The coldness of his embrace had tears brimming your eyes and you pressed your face into his chest as if it was an instinct. An instinct to protect yourself.

- Floyd eased into your desperation, arms closing around you as he held you in his grasp. He was smiling but it was bland and it was meant to scare you.

- "Aha, you're crying! Aw,did you think I was gonna hurt you,little shrimp?"

- You shook your head,hands gripping onto his shirt as Floyd patted your head playfully.

- "Ah,it's cause you went and made me mad, right? Hahaha! You're a funny one,little shrimp. Always getting yourself into things you can't handle"

- Floyd then cupped your face with both hands, a feverishly possessive look in his eyes.

- "But,If you're really sorry you'll have to show me,okay?"

Riddle Roseheart

- Funnily enough,the suggestion of having children was brought up by Cater, and it had taken both you and Riddle off guard.

- Though, unlike you, Riddle saw it as an enlightenment. He adores you and acknowledges you to a great degree and so when the thought of being a father to your child crossed his mind, everything changed for him.

- "Children would be nice" He said,voice a soft lull as he nuzzled into the crook of your neck. The two of you had been laying on his bed all day, Riddle claiming his fellow dormmates had made his day stressful as always.

- You were running your fingers through his hair when his question struck a cord in you,yet you opted to keep your thoughts to yourself.

- Riddle was a rather conflicting partner to have. Unlike the other yanderes, he wasn't at all aggressive or wholly dominant when he began his recession of obsessive love for you, at least not all the time. When Riddle admitted his feelings for you, he had laid himself bare.

- Gentle but clingy, he latched himself onto you as if you were stitched together, and due to the lack of childhood his mother deprived him of, Riddle found great comfort in the way you handled him with such an understanding and loving attitude. Sure,you had your days when you let loose your tongue of sarcasm but that was also an aspect about you he adored.

- "Don't you think so,____?"

- Riddle called you by your first name now rather than your title as supervisor, he didn't have a nickname, said it was all just too stuffy for him. Plus, the way your name rolled so lusciously on his tongue, satisfied him.

- "I guess" was your answer, and somehow despite how casual you sounded Riddle couldn't help but to hear a slight hint of disapproval in it.

- Still, he smiled when he looked up to you and let out a gentle laugh.

- "Our children would surely be an outstanding batch, won't they? I'd teach them how to use their magic and if one of them can't, they'll have you" He sounded so genuine, so soft. It hurt you to inwardly disagree with him.

- You weren't really fond of kids but you were also not the type to admit it out loud, afraid that people would look at you badly if you did.

- "Hmm, you don't seem like you're excited..." ,His voice a gentle coo,Riddle pressed his body against yours,his lips lightly caressing your skin. You arched your back and a small laugh escaped him.

- "Doesn't the thought of having children makes you want to try it?"

- If your silence didn't set him off, the way fear swirled in the hues of your eyes did, and like a switch, Riddle clasped your throat with his hand, a snarl scrunching up his expression.

- "Answer me when I talk to you,____."

- You let out a strangled gasp,your hand coming up to grip his wrist only to feel it burn instead

- Riddle's gaze shifted,clear blue eyes resembling a flickering flame.

- "Don't touch me. If you even move from this position, I'll rip that head off of you faster than the March Hare himself."

- You flinched at his words,eyes shutting close as your chest throbbed in panic. This was what you were avoiding, yet ultimately failed to notice. His moods shifted so profoundly after all, it was like treading on Alice Liddle's stubbornness.

- "I... I'm sorry!" You managed,half a sob and half a plea. Despite his hands looking so fragile, Riddle's grip was like an iron clamp, and somehow his skin seemed to burn into yours.

- "If you're sorry, then why am I still angry,___?" Riddle laughed, "Why do I still want to punish you?"

- You broke into tears easily after that, hopelessness coursing through your veins and warping your features.

- This broke his heart as well, Riddle now knew the answer he was waiting for. You didn't want children with him.

- Near tears himself,Riddle released his grip on you, letting you fall onto his mattress and curl into a ball as he sat there, kneeling before you. He watched as you let out an agonizing sob and called his name,for what reason he wasn't sure. He didn't know if you really loved him or not. You probably stayed because you feared him as well like most people did. But he loved you,he really did. If the world he lived in was a twisted Wonderland, you were his salvation, his home.

- "I'm sorry,___",he said after tears had stained his own cheeks and his heart weighed him down and his chest felt like exploding. He inched closer to you before gathering your trembling form into his arms and burying your face into his chest.

- "I'm sorry I hurt you. I won't do it again,I promise" He held you so tight, you couldn't even grasp enough air into your lungs,but you held onto him nonetheless.

- "I don't like hearing you cry" Riddle murmured in-between sobs, "I love you,___. I just wanted to show you that I do"

- He repeated those words like a mantra, and you fell deeper into your sorrows, as if you shared a single heart with him and the pain the two of you felt somehow had mixed together until you were unable to tell them apart.

- Love with Riddle was maddening,it really was. It was like diving into a rabbit hole. Endless.

- "I love you too, Riddle. I'm sorry for making you mad"

- "I don't care about that anymore" Riddle held your face in his hands,cheeks flushed when you leaned close to kiss his lips first. "I don't care about children or anything. I just want to be with you"

- You smiled. "Maybe having a few wouldn't hurt,if it's yours,I'll be okay,won't I?"

- He pressed his forehead against yours, chuckling, "Yes,my Lady"

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ourownsideimagines · 3 years

Text

Hide My Wings Tonight: Not Another Gloomy Play (Chapter 5)

Surprise! Not dead! I suddenly got the oomph today to finish not one but TWO chapters. Chaoter Six will be posted later, but I figured after two years of waiting I would go ahead and put up Chapter 5 right now.

Read it here on AO3!

Or read it below the cut

Based on the one-shot request by @jinxthequeergirl

---

Aziraphale had not seen his sister filled with such joy in centuries as he did in the years following the beginning of her and Crowley’s arrangement. Not that he knew of said arrangement of course, but he didn’t question what his sister did as long as she was happy. He worried about her, that much was for sure, but after she’d blown off his question the first twenty times he’d stopped asking, and started to enjoy the smile she once again gave so freely.

And (name) enjoyed learning to dance. Her demonic partner was not the best at the task, but they were learning together by watching others, and interacting. No one would question their presence at parties and masquerades. And though (name) would never admit it, she enjoyed spending time with Crowley. There was something about him that drew her in. Perhaps that was just how demons were. Enticing to even the purest of minds. Or maybe just to her.

She didn’t like Crowley, Heaven’s no - how could she, he’s a demon - but his company was a nice change from her doting brother and the snobs up in Heaven.

And of course, with their first arrangement, came another one. One that would change the world forever

You see, arrangements can be a tricky thing.

The one that (name) had with Crowley was simple enough - Crowley would help (name) learn any new dance she desired, as long as she was willing to help him with small things. She had been a bit reluctant to these terms at first, but found that there was some joy in her disobeying Heaven. It was like a huge fuck you to Gabriel behind his back.

Did his coat need mending? Simple enough - it might not look beautiful, but it was presentable. Did Crowley need a name? Most certainly, (name) could get that. Did he need help getting into somewhere he couldn’t get into otherwise? Not a problem, (name) was good at talking her way into places. Did he need Aziraphale distracted for a while while he did some misdeeds? (Name) could turn a blind eye and take her brother out to lunch. Whatever he asked for, (name) was willing to do it.

Aziraphale had caught onto them rather quickly, much to (name)’s dismay. He’d been upset. He didn’t know about the dancing, but he knew that she’d been sneaking off to see Crowley and to help him with his hellish intentions. It had taken hours for (name) to get him to calm down and listen.

And that was how the second arrangement began. This one was just a bit trickier to get away with. After all, hiding something from Aziraphale was one thing. But hiding something from heaven was another - they had eyes everywhere. Even if it didn’t seem like it, someone was bound to be watching. And if not now, then later.

Aziraphale had been against the idea for so many years, helping Crowley, or God forbid, getting Crowley’s help. But with the way (name) and Crowley insisted it could do us some good, how was he to resist?

So that was how it had been, for many years. The angels helped the demon, and the demon helped the angels. Heaven hadn’t noticed, and as far as (name) knew Hell hadn’t either. That didn’t mean any less sneaking around - Aziraphale refused to meet with Crowley privately. It always had to be in a crowd, somewhere inconspicuous.

And the Globe Theater during the preview of Shakespeare's new play, Hamlet, was anything but.

Aziraphale had promised a crowd, but (name) could count no more than fifteen heads among the crowd - that included the Bard himself, and the woman carrying snacks, Juliet. As they waited for Crowley, Aziraphale purchased himself a bunch of grapes, miracaling a coin out of nowhere.

“If you were going to do that,” (Name) said as Juliet walked away. “You could have just miracled yourself some grapes.”

“Now where would be the fun in that.” Aziraphale said, smiling down at the fruit before popping one of them into his mouth. He glanced around quickly. “He’s late.”

“Really, I hadn’t noticed.” She teased. “Stop looking so nervous. You’re the one who wanted to meet with him here.”

“Yes, well, I assumed there would be a much bigger crowd.”

“There’s never a crowd for a show like this.” (Name) argued. “People are depressed enough as is, they don’t want to be going to a show that will just make them feel worse.”

“I don’t feel any worse.” Aziaraphale argued.

“Yeah, well, you’re also not like everybody else.” The two were silent for a moment. Then, almost as if she could sense him, (name) turned her head and watched as Crowley sauntered into the arena. He saw them, and took no time at coming to stand beside (name).

“I thought you said we’d be inconspicuous here. Blend in with the crowd.” (Name) wanted to smile at this. Aziraphale, on the other hand, huffed, and ate another grape before he spoke.

“That was the idea.” He grumbled, glancing over at the demon. Remembering his manners, he offered the fruits to him. Crowley, however, ignored them.

“Ah, hang on.” The demon grimaced. “This isn’t one of Shakespeare’s gloomy ones, is it?” He scrunched up his nose. “No wonder nobody’s here.” (Name) smiled at this.

“Shh, it’s him.” Aziraphale grasped his sister's arm, catching her attention.

“Prithee, gentles, madam.” He said. “Might I request a small favor? Could you, in your role as the audience, give us more to work with?” (name) tried not to frown at this, but she had never been very good at controlling her mouth - both what came out of it, and what shapes it decided to make. Shakespeare didn’t seem much interested in her tho, his eyes focused more on Aziaphale who asked;

“You mean, like when the ghost of his father came on, and I shouted ‘He’s behind you!’?”

“Just so!” Shakespeare said. “That was jolly helpful. Made everyone on the stage feel appreciated. A bit more of that.” (name) wanted to argue. She wanted to say that it made no sense, but she didn’t have the chance. “Good Master Burbage, please! Speak the lines trippingly.” The actor on stage didn’t take the advice too well, and (name) was sure he was ready to explode on the bard at any moment.

“I am wasting my time up here.” He hissed.

“No, you’re very good!” Aziraphale insisted. “Isn’t that right, my dear sister?”

“I-” She bit her tongue. Aziraphale has a bad habit of putting her on the spot like this. That, plus a loose tongue, was never a good pairing. “Yes. I just love all the… talking.” She said.

“And what does your friend think?” The actor asked, clearly looking towards Crowley.

“He’s not our friend. We’ve never met before, we don’t know each other-”

“I think you should get on with the play.” Crowley interrupted Aziraphale, and (name) had to raise a hand to cover her mouth. If Aziraphale heard her laugh, he would surely lecture her later.

“Yes, Burbage. Please.” Shakespeare said. The actor continued.

“To be or not to be - that is the question-”

“To be!” Aziraphale exclaimed. “I mean, not to be! Come on, Hamlet. Buck up!” He turned to (name) with excitement, but it quickly died when he saw the bored look on not only her face, but on Crowley’s as well. Still, the actor gave him a grateful thumbs up and continued on. (name) had to keep from laughing when she noticed Shakespeare mouthing along to the soliloquy, looking very proud of himself.

“He’s very good, isn’t he?” Aziraphale gushed.

“Age does not wither nor custom stale his infinite variety.” Crowley dramatized. (name) watched as Shakespeare reached for his pocket, stating how he ‘liked that’ and wandered away while scratching it down on a scrap of paper.

They stood there a few moments longer, listening to the soliloquy.

“What do you want?” Aziraphale finally spoke, popping another grape into his mouth. (Name) took this opportunity to snag a few, cradling them in her hand as she trained her eyes on the man standing on stage.

“Why might you be insinuating that I might possibly want some?” He was behind them now, coming to stand on Aziraphale’s side.

“You’re up to no good.”

“And the two of you are up to good, I take it? Lots of good deeds?” (Name) spared him a glance. He wasn’t even trying to pretend that he was watching the play. Even behind his glasses she could see him glancing at her, then back to Aziraphale.

“Well there is no rest for the…” Aziraphale paused, causing (name) to snicker. The actor on stage threw her a look, which she chose to ignore. “Good.”

“We’re meant to be heading up to Edinburgh at the end of the week. Aziraphale has a couple of blessings to do and I have a minor miracle to perform.” (Name) popped a couple of the grapes into her mouth - they were the perfect mixture of sweet and sour, causing her to hum with joy.

“Oh? Is that right?” Crowley looked at her again and (Name) fought to keep a smile off her face. “Well, I’m meant to be heading to Edinburgh end of the week as well - tempting a clan leader to steal some caddle.”

“Doesn’t sound like hard work.” Aziraphale piped in, too focused on the play and his food to realize what was coming next.

“Well, that’s why I thought…” this caught Aziraphale’s attention, and he all but snapped his head in Crowley’s direction. “Well, it’s be a bit of a waste.” Crowley was starting to smile again. He knew exactly what he was doing. “All of us going all the way to Scotland.”

“You cannot possibly be insinuating,” Azirapahe was beginning to raise his voice, and (Name) hushed him before the actor could throw another tantrum. “What I infer you are implying.” He said in a hushed tone.

“It’s not like we haven’t done it before.” Crowley was turned to watch the play now, but (name) never looked away from him. “The arrangement-“

“Don’t say that.” Aziraphale demanded.

“Our respective head offices don’t actually care how things get done, they just want to know they can cross it off the list.

“Yes, but if hell found out they wouldn’t just be mad,” Aziraphale reminded him. “They would destroy you.” The joy of seeing the demon had finally worn off as (name) let Aziraphale’s words sink in.

They would destroy you.

“Nobody ever needs to know.” Crowley said, lifting a hand to show them a rusted coin. “I’ll toss you for Edinburgh.”

There was a pregnant pause. (Name) could feel the words forming on the tip of her tongue. We shouldn’t do this, she wanted to say. It’s way too dangerous. But she couldn’t. Because a life without seeing Crowley every now and again would be… well, she’s not sure it would be worth living.

“Fine,” Aziraphale sighed. “Heads.” Crowley smiled. Then, he held the coin out to her.

“Would you do us the honor?” He asked. As (name) took the coin, her fingers brushed gently against his own, and despite how well dressed he was and how warm it was, his fingers were cold. Aziraphale’s eyes were trained on the coin so he didn’t see when Crowley gave her a sly wink.

The other arrangement.

(Name) held onto a sigh as she flipped the coin, fingers snapping gently as she did. When the coin landed, she knew it would be tails, but she played her part and gave a small groan of annoyance.

“Well, brother of mine, it looks like we will be the ones going to Scotland.” She displayed the coin. “Guess I’m just a bit unlucky.” She lied.

Before either of them could speak, they heard the bard moaning from the other side of the pit.

“It’s been like this every performance Juliet, a complete dud. It would take a miracle to get anyone to come and see Hamlet.” (Name) didn’t miss the look Aziraphale gave Crowley. The same face he gave her when he wanted something sweet, or was begging her to help him get a new book.

Crowley scrunched up his nose, but let out a defeated sigh.

“Fine, I’ll do that one.” He said. “My treat.”

“Oh, really?” (Name) shuffled a bit, annoyed words threatening to spill from her lips. But Crowley spoke up quickly.

“I still prefer the funny ones.” He gave (name) one last glance before making his way toward the exit of the theater, probably on his way to start on his demonic miracle. It was at that moment that (name) realized she was still holding Crowley’s coin.

“Oh, bugger.” She muttered. “Could you hold on a moment, brother. I will return in just a moment.”

“Is everything alright?”

“Quite. Just need a breather, is all.” He didn’t seem to like that answer, but didn’t argue as (name) tore away from him and walked towards the theater exit. As she popped out onto the empty streets, she could feel eyes on her. To her left, Crowley was leaning up against a wall, waiting for her.

“Sneaky bastard.” She said, “You forgot something.” She said, holding out the coin to him. He stared at it for a moment, but didn’t hold out a hand to take it. So she pulled back, slipping the coin into a pocket she had secretly sewn into her dress. “Is everything okay, Crowley?”

“How are you?” (name) was taken aback by the question, but Crowley seemed genuine in his curiosity.

“I am… fine.”

“You seem happy.” He said. “Even if you weren’t enjoying the show, you just seem… happier.”

“Well,” (name) started. “I am. Times are changing. I haven’t had to visit upstairs in quite a while. And Aziaraphale is happy. So I am happy.”

“Good. That’s… good.” There was silence between them. “I still owe you from last time, too.” He said. (name) hummed in agreement - she hadn’t gotten her promised dance lesson for the last temptation she had assisted him with.

“I guess this next one will just have to be a bit longer, then, no?”

“It would seem.” Crowley was smiling. “Have fun in Edinburgh, Angel.”

“Have fun with Hamlet, Demon.” She shot back, trying not to laugh as he grimaced. Crowley pushed off the wall and began to saunter off, leaving (name) to return to her brother. When she reached into her pocket, she couldn’t help but laugh to herself.

The coin was gone.

#hide my wings tonight #HMWT chapter 5 #chapter 5 #crowley x reader #crowley x angel!reader #crowley x fem!reader #crowley x reader good omens #crowley x angel!reader good omens #crowley x fem!reader good omens #x reader #x angel!reader #x fem!reader #reader insert #good omens reader insert #Aziraphale’s sister!reader #my writing #reese writes

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aethelflaedladyofmercia · 4 years

Text

Hey, everyone! I’ve been saying for a bit I want to get some fics from prompts I’ve written onto AO3 but...it’s so hard...ok it’s not hard, Executive Dysfunction is just kicking my butt. I’m going to post some of them to Tumblr today. If you want to help these babies get on AO3, they need: titles, tags, you pestering me in the comments. If you don’t think they’re good enough for AO3 - fair enough, just hit the little heart if they make you smile!

Prompt: Aziraphale reading to Crowley

(Requested by @zadusk and @lyricwritesprose)

“Sorry, can’t help you,” the innkeeper said, “just rented out our last room.”

“What?” Crowley crossed his arms, huffing through his nose. This was Bethlehem all over again. “This town is in the middle of nowhere, it has three inns, how can they all be sold out?”

“I don’t know what to tell you.” The innkeeper shut the ledger. “Everyone’s headed down to London, and we’re on the way. Now. I can offer you a hot meal, and for, let’s say, half the price of a room you can sleep in the stables. The hay loft is clean, apart from the mice—”

“Stablesss!” Crowley hissed, slapping his hand on the counter. “Do I look like someone who sleeps in stables?”

The innkeeper didn’t appear remotely impressed. “You look like someone who is going to be sleeping in a hedge. Looks like a storm tonight. Good evening.” And he spun away, calling out to the cook in the back room.

“Oi!” Crowley shouted. “Get back here, you—!”

“Crowley! Whatever are you doing here?” The familiar voice was half delighted, half scolding. Aziraphale appeared beside him, same white suit as the last time they’d met, top hat tucked under his arm. “I thought I made it clear we shouldn’t see each other so often. Since I opened the shop, it’s been—”

“Yes, I know.” Crowley waved a hand and turned away. “I’m not here for you, Angel, I have actual business in York.”

“Really?” Despite his words, Aziraphale trailed behind him. “How interesting. I’m just returning from York – oh, no, you don’t think they’ve sent you to undo all my work again, do you?”

Crowley snorted. “No bet.” He dropped his voice into a low whisper. “This is why we need to meet up more often. Look at all this time we’re wasting! And now I have to march through the bloody night in the rain because there’s no place to sleep—”

“Oh! Well, I wouldn’t dream of it. You can share my room.”

“Ngk?!” Crowley’s brain crashed into his skull with all the speed and grace of a train wreck. “Mf. Yk. No I can’t – Aziraphale!”

“Oh, my word – obviously, I’m not planning – that!” His voice dropped even lower and he tugged on Crowley’s elbow. “Don’t be crude, dear fellow. I have a room with a bed that I’m not intending to use. You can have it. I just need a chair to sit in while I read.”

“Jgk.” Crowley turned away, taking a deep breath through his nose. It made sense. He could sleep. Aziraphale could read. No getting soaked, or lost in the dark, or needing to fight off highwaymen or anything of the sort. “Fffine. We can. Er. Do that.”

“Jolly good.” He could practically hear the angel straightening his waistcoat. “Now that’s settled. I’ve already had my supper and was about to head up. Unless you’re hungry—”

“No, no, now is fine.” He still couldn’t quite meet Aziraphale’s eyes. “Lead the way.”

The room, it turned out, was nearly as advertised.

A double-sized bed with a straw-tick and a quilt. A little stand with a pitcher of water and bowl for washing up. Windows that could be tightly shuttered to block out some of the city noise.

The only thing missing, really, was the chair.

“Oh.” Aziraphale’s fingers tapped on his book and he glanced around, as if a seat might be hiding in the corner. “Well, er…”

“It’s fine. I can leave.” Crowley turned on his heel and reached for the latch.

“Absolutely not! I won’t hear of it. You get settled and I’ll – ah – I’ll miracle in a chair.” He peered around the narrow room. “Somewhere.”

“Look, I can—”

“No. Miracle yourself a nightgown or whatever it is you need.”

“I—”

“Hush!”

Resigning himself, Crowley waved his clothes into something more comfortable for sleeping and crawled under the blanket. It was…slightly better than sleeping in the stables, he supposed. The straw was lumpy and the sheet covering it coarse, but the pillow was well-stuffed with goose-down, a luxury he could get used to. He shifted onto his back, trying to find a comfortable angle.

Instead, he found Aziraphale, standing beside the bed, staring blankly at the wall. “There…well…it would appear there isn’t room for a chair,” he confessed. “Not one that will fit my, er…my current corporation comfortably, that is.”

Crowley looked at the ceiling. He could sleep up there, but it would mean abandoning the pillow. Or. Or.

“Look, Angel,” he said as casually as he could. You can, um, you can sit on the bed. I’m not going to be offended or anything. It’s fine.”

“No, I couldn’t – couldn’t possibly—”

“Aziraphale. It’s really fine.”

The quilt tugged, folded back, and with a rustle of straw Aziraphale settled into the mattress. He sat straight, stiff, and so close to the edge he might topple off.

Even so, he was alarmingly close.

“You, um. You need the candle?”

“No, my own light will be sufficient, thank you.”

“Yeah. Obviously.” Crowley tossed his glasses onto the little table and waved a finger at the candle, which immediately snuffed out, leaving the room dark except for the soft glow of Aziraphale, gently illuminating his book.

Crowley closed his eyes and prepared to fall asleep.

He turned onto one side. No good, too close to the edge.

He turned the other way, or started to, freezing when he felt how close the angel’s warmth was.

Then he lay on his back again. The whole room fell very, very still.

“Bless it, Aziraphale, will you relax?”

“I beg your pardon?”

“I can practically hear your muscles creaking. How am I supposed to all asleep with all that – that tension barely six inches away!”

“I don’t know what you might be referring to. I am – am perfectly relaxed here, reading my book and you – you interrupt with these – these pointless accusations.”

Crowley gave up and turned on his side, facing Aziraphale, giving him as hard a stare as he could manage. “Your book is upside down, Angel.”

“Is it?” He swallowed. “I mean, of course it is. I am training myself to read upside-down text, a highly useful skill, which I’m sure—”

Crowley shut his eyes. “This was a terrible idea.” He sat up, swinging his legs off the bed.

“Where are you going?”

“Look, Aziraphale, neither of us is actually comfortable with this. So I’m just going to head out. If I leave now, I might make it to the next town before the rain starts, and maybe they’ll have a room. You can have this one and—”

“Crowley,” he said, voice much softer than expected. “My dear fellow. I won’t be able to relax knowing you’re out there. I know you won’t be in – in any real danger but…I would rather know that you’re safe.”

He stared ahead, sitting perfectly still in the way that only beings who aren’t really alive can – no breath, no heartbeat, no tiny motions.

Then, slowly, Crowley pulled his legs back under the quilt and lay on his back.

“What’s this book about, anyway?” he asked.

“Aren’t you supposed to be sleeping?”

“It’ll help. Trust me. What is it – poetry? Ancient epics about glorious wars? Not Hamlet again, I hope, that play is a gloomy mess of—”

“No, nothing of the sort. It’s…well, it’s a sort of love story.”

That didn’t sound too bad. “Sort of?”

“Well, yes, it’s more a – a study of the manners and traditions of courtship. Our heroine is the second of five sisters, and there’s a great deal riding on finding them suitable husbands, but her choices are, well…not especially appealing.”

“Does she tell them to go jump in a lake?”

“Not in so many words,” Aziraphale said disapprovingly. “But yes, she has so far turned down two proposals quite bitingly. Although I think she was a bit hasty in her judgement of one of the young men.”

“I like it.” Crowley turned to look at Aziraphale, and found the angel had relaxed, and moved just a little closer. “What’s it called, anyway?”

“Pride and Prejudice.” His fingers tapped against it. “Just released last year. I must try and find the author’s other work when I finish.”

“Well, you’ll have to tell me how it ends.”

“Oh, are you…interested?”

“Hmm,” Crowley settled his head a little further into the pillow. “I do like a good drawing room drama. Perhaps I should pick out a few dresses and spend a year or two back in those circles.”

“As I recall, you were always deceitful and wicked and caused many a scandal.”

“I should hope so. Otherwise, what’s the point?”

Aziraphale smiled down at him, and it made Crowley feel light-headed in a way that had nothing to do with sleep. “Then I imagine you’ll be brilliant at it.” He suddenly turned away, looking at the shuttered window. “Oh! Do you hear that? The rain has started.” The first drops were tapping against the shutters fitfully.

“Good thing I didn’t go out.”

“Yes.” Aziraphale looked at the book again. “Er, would you like me to…to read it to you? Just the first part, until you fall asleep.”

“I…” Crowley cleared his throat. “Yeah. I mean, your voice puts me to sleep half the time anyway, so…”

“Oh, yes, absolutely wonderful. Let me just get the first volume.” He hopped out of bed and hurried over to his jacket, rummaging in the pocket to pull out another hardcover book. When he returned to the bed, it was with almost no self-consciousness, wriggling comfortably against his pillow only a few inches away from Crowley.

“Now, let’s see…yes, here. ‘It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife…’”

It was strange, seeing the angel from this angle, round face slightly lit by his own glow, little smile curving up his lips as the words bubbled out excitedly. His voice rose and fell as he read, trying to paint a picture of Longbourne and Netherfield and the lives of the Bennet sisters. Crowley could get used to it, the look, the sound, the soft familiarity of it all. Not that he was likely to have an opportunity.

He didn’t close his eyes. Not yet.

“‘But I can assure you,’ she added,” Aziraphale was quite enjoying the voice he had chosen for Mrs. Bennet, raising it now in slightly erratic excitement. “‘that Lizzy does not lose much by not suiting his fancy; for he is a most disagreeable, horrid man, not at all worth pleasing.’” He shifted again, raising his arm to better articulate the dialogue. “‘So high and so conceited that there was no enduring him! He walked here, and he walked there, fancying himself so very great! Not handsome enough to dance with!’” He dropped his voice into a vicious hiss. “‘I wish you had been there, my dear, to have given him one of your set downs. I quite detest the man.’”

He glanced to his left, grinning, hoping to see Crowley’s reaction to his bit of acting, but the demon had at some point fallen asleep. He lay half on his back, still facing Aziraphale, shock of red hair across the white pillow. His mouth hung slightly open and something emerged that was almost a snore, but rather too small to really qualify. It was drowned out by the wind and rain outside, rattling the shutters. Now and then, in the distance, thunder rumbled.

“Well. I suppose…yes, you sleep now.” Aziraphale turned to put the book down, thinking to find the second volume and pick up where he’d left off.

“Nf.” Crowley turned onto his side, one arm flinging out towards Aziraphale’s waist. “D’n stp,” he mumbled. “Jus’ gettn gud.”

“Er, are you…awake?” The arm tightened slightly, and Crowley pulled closer, pressing himself against Aziraphale’s side. “Crowley, er, dear…you’re…”

“M’fine.” He sighed, not seeming aware of the world at all. “S’nice.”

For a long moment, Aziraphale stared at the demon who had – had invaded his space. Had settled against him in a most – most awkward and undignified way.

Well. There was really only one thing to do.

Aziraphale slid a little lower against the pillow, until he’d surrounded Crowley in the crook of his arm. “Is that better, dear?”

“St’ry.” But he settled into that space between Aziraphale’s side and his arm with a content sigh, arm now draped across the angel’s chest.

Oh, dear. This is not going to be easy to explain when he wakes up. But that wouldn’t be for several hours, at least, and right now, there was a very small smile on Crowley’s lips.

“Well. Chapter four. ‘When Jane and Elizabeth were alone, the former, who had been cautious in her praise of Mr. Bingley before, expressed to her sister how very much she admired him…’”

Thanks for reading! Pride and Prejudice was initially published in three volumes, in 1813, attributed simply to “The Author of Sense and Sensibility.” I have no idea what was going on in York in 1814 - I mostly needed someplace they could walk to but would take several days - so feel free to attribute whatever historical events you can think of to these dummies!

#good omens fanfiction #good omens fic #ineffable husbands #aziraphale and crowley #there's only one bed #aziraphale and his books #sleepy cuddles #sleepy snusband #short and sweet #fluff #good omens fluff #my writing #writing prompt #good omens prompts

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