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in-the-shadow-of-the-blog · 8 months

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The Pains We Endure | Chapter Two

Masterlist | Ao3 | Chapter One

Chapter Summary: Through a series of encounters, Edith and Aesop come to know each other a little better. Perhaps their first impressions of each other were wrong. (Aesop Sharp x OC)

Chapter Rating: PG

Chapter Warnings: None! (Darker stuff is coming. Also smut.)

Word count: 3.2k

A/N: I'm trying to practice pining, how am I doing? 2 of 6.

—

Edith regretted walking into the Great Hall the moment the roar of voices reached her ears. A mask of impassivity smoothed her features as she joined the other teachers at the staff tables. One hand rubbed little circles into her temple while she sipped her tea.

“Not recovered from your headache, Miss Pryce?” Professor Sharp asked, eyeing her.

“Not quite, Professor Sharp. The solace of the library will do me good.” Edith sipped her tea, refusing to look at him.

He didn’t want her imagined pity, and Edith had no use for his assumptions about her headache. Edith wasn’t sure how they had gotten off on the wrong foot, but she was in no mood to set things right this morning.

“There are draughts that can offer relief.”

Given their conversation the previous night, Edith expected a patronizing lilt to his tone. There was none, but she was still affronted by his behavior last night, and her headache made it impossible to entertain civility.

“Thank you, professor, but there is no need. I have yet to encounter a pain I could not endure.”

He fell silent, and Edith inwardly celebrated her victory. She was in no mood for his quiet superiority. It was satisfying to put a man like that in his place, even in the smallest of ways.

Over the course of the next week, Edith settled into her role as assistant librarian quite well. She got on well with most of the staff and found plenty of work to keep her busy in the library. Edith was a woman who appreciated routine, though spending all day in the library felt stifling sometimes.

Today, Scribner had tasked her with retiring some old potions textbooks to a storage room. At least it gets me out of the library for a while. I’ve forgotten what the rest of the castle looks like.

Twelve books, neatly arranged in two stacks of six, floated beside Edith as she took the steps down to the dungeons. The room in question was easy to find, around the corner from the potions classroom. Edith stepped inside, books following, and surveyed the dusty room. A cabinet stood against one wall, potentially empty, according to Scribner.

“Perfect,” Edith said to herself. Organized and out of sight, just how she liked things.

Edith opened the cabinet.

And screamed.

Books toppled to the floor as her charm slipped away. Before her was a face that she had desperately hoped never to see again. The face of all her nightmares. Now, here he stood, in the one place Edith thought she would find safety.

He advanced, silent, wand pointed at her, hazel eyes filled with disdain. She could hear the spell in her mind, the memory of his voice echoing in her ears. Edith staggered back, shuffling away from him, hands scrabbling against the stone floor. This can’t be happening.

“No.” A timid sob escaped her lips as her back met the wall. Edith stared up at him, waiting for the inevitable.

Aesop had not heard a sound that sent a chill down his spine in quite some time, but he heard it now. He stood from his desk, auror instincts alight, his wand in his hand. It had not been a scream of surprise or dismay; it was a sound of abject terror.

He made his way down the hall, caution tempering his urgency. “Who’s there?” He called out.

“No! Please, no!” Sobs wrenched from a place of desperate despair led him down the corridor and into a storeroom. The door was open, and Aesop was taken aback at the scene that greeted him.

Edith was on the floor, backed against a wall, in tears. Books littered the surrounding ground. Standing over her was a man Aesop had never seen before, wand raised threateningly. Cold hazel eyes partially hidden under an unruly mop of shaggy dark hair, sharp features many would call handsome, and a menacing smile curving his lips. He reminded Aesop of the kinds of wizards he had tracked down as an auror.

Catching sight of Aesop’s arrival, the figure changed. It was partially the same man, partially the dead-eyed figure of his late partner. Aesop grimaced, gritting his teeth. “Ridikulus!”

The figure vanished in a puff of smoke.

He turned to Edith, still staring wide-eyed at the place where the man had stood. He reached down, offering her a hand up. “Miss Pryce?”

Edith gasped, turning her fearful gaze on him. She blinked, snapping out of whatever dark place in which her mind had trapped her. She accepted the hand up and leaned against the stone wall, catching her breath.

“It was only a boggart.” His tone was unusually gentle.

“Yes, I see that now.” Edith’s breath was shallow, her hands shaky as she wiped at the tears on her cheek.

Unsure of what to say, Aesop allowed her a moment to compose herself. The things that could make a woman so terrified of a man were not things he liked to think about. Edith looked at him, feeling small under his scrutiny.

“Thank you for your assistance, Professor Sharp. I’m afraid I would have been in terrible trouble without your intervention. As you can see, I am rather inept when it comes to these things.”

“Being caught off guard is never pleasant.”

Edith hummed in agreement. She waved her wand and the books on the floor stacked themselves neatly in the open cabinet. She pressed her fingers to her temple. “If you’ll excuse me, I must…” Edith trailed off, not bothering to find an end to her sentence.

She felt Aesop’s eyes on her as she fled the room as quickly as her unsteady legs would allow her. Edith’s headache had returned with a vengeance, and a tingling in her fingertips suggested she might be on her way to fainting. She needed air.

Walking without intention, Edith was neither surprised nor dismayed when she realized her instincts had taken her to the greenhouses. Where else would she find the peace and calm she needed if not among the fresh earth and sweet smells of growing plants? She leaned against an ivy-covered wall, eyes closed to the warmth of the sun, breathing deeply. Home.

“Miss Pryce? Are you all right?” Professor Garlick’s lilting tone interrupted her thoughts. She looked at Edith warily.

“Apologies, Professor Garlick. I just had a run-in with a boggart in the dungeons and I thought I would come out here for some fresh air.”

“How dreadful!” Mirabel exclaimed. The redhead considered Edith for a moment. “You look like you could use a cup of tea.”

—

The first Quidditch game of the season was an exciting day for students and teachers alike. The stands were full, and the faculty filed into the tower reserved for their use. Aesop took his time with the stairs, wondering if he should resort to using his cane for this particular task in the future. Matilda sat alone, and a plan formed in Aesop’s mind. He took the seat next to her, hiding a grimace.

“Good day, Matilda,” he greeted her. His nonchalance was not enough to fool the shrewd headmistress.

“Something on your mind, Aesop?” Matilda asked.

“Ha, nothing gets past you, I see.” Aesop leaned in, not wanting to be overheard. “How well do you know Miss Pryce?”

Matilda looked at him, her face a little more serious than he was expecting. “Does this have anything to do with the boggart incident?”

“She told you?” It had been over a week since that day in the storeroom. Aesop had not dared bring it up, and he felt Edith had been avoiding him.

“To answer both your questions, I have known Edith since she was a girl. Long enough for her to confide in me about what happened.” Matilda folded her hands in her lap. “What is it you want to know, Aesop?”

Well, Aesop appreciate getting to the point. “We both know that Scribner can manage perfectly well without an assistant. You have an ulterior motive for getting Edith this job. Does it have something to do with that man?”

Matilda clicked her tongue. “Aesop, you are not an auror, and Edith is not trafficking magical artifacts. You’ve no need to be wary.”

“I will always be wary if I have cause to believe someone is hiding dangerous secrets.” Aesop’s voice was low, though he was becoming a little heated.

“I hope you are not suggesting that I would allow anyone’s business - private business, I might add - to jeopardize the safety of the school.”

Aesop straightened in his chair. “Of course not, Matilda.”

The woman sighed. “Edith’s situation is delicate. She needs support, not suspicion. I’m surprised you’ve taken such a keen interest, to be honest.”

Two cheerful voices rose behind them, and Aesop was grateful the excuse to end the conversation. Matilda’s answers sated his questions for now, but gave him new ones to ponder. Why had he taken such an interest?

He glanced over his shoulder to see Edith and Mirabel taking seats. Edith sported a worn Hufflepuff scarf, no doubt hers from her time as a student. No surprises there. Out of the corner of his eye, Aesop watched as Edith adjusted the thin scarf, the black striped stark against her pale skin.

Since that afternoon in the greenhouse, Edith and Mirabel had grown close. Bonding over their shared love of plants and tea, Edith had found a sorely needed female companion in the young professor.

The Quidditch match, Ravenclaw vs Hufflepuff, was a rousing affair. The game was close at first, but the Hufflepuff team soon gained the upper hand. They were ahead by forty points before the yellow-clad seeker caught the snitch. The eruption of applause and cheers was thunderous, Edith and Mirabel loudest among the teachers.

Spectators filed out of the stands, joining their teams to celebrate on the pitch or heading back to the castle. Sitting near the front of the teacher’s box, Edith waited for the crowd to thin a little before making her way toward the stairs.

The sun beating down on them during the match had left Edith feeling a little too warm. A little too fuzzy. Halfway down the steps, everything started to go a little blurry. Her vision, her hearing, even her fingertips, as a familiar tingling sensation pricked at her skin. She barely made it down the rest of the steps. Oh no. Not now!

Edith had fought off these fainting spells before, and she would do so again. She just needed to focus.

Edith paused, bracing herself against the wall with one hand, the other clutched over her chest. She forced herself to breathe, slowly counting to five. When it didn’t help, she counted again. The blurring at the edge of her senses faded.

“Miss Pryce?” The voice was forceful, as if this was not the first time it called her name.

Edith looked up with a small gasp of surprise, realizing she was no longer alone. Professor Sharp stared at her, a curious expression on his face. “I didn’t see you there, professor.”

“Is everything all right?” Aesop eyed her warily. “You were… counting.”

Edith schooled her features. Why was this man always present in her moments of weakness? “Nothing to be concerned about, professor. I will be along in a moment.”

Aesop took in her pale face, the way her hand pressed against the wall. “Are you certain? You look faint.”

“I am just taking a moment to catch my breath. It’s rather warm today, don’t you think?”

One.

Aesop raised an eyebrow. “Perhaps a little.” He did not sound convinced.

Edith swayed on her feet, drawing a shaky breath. Aesop laid a stabilizing hand on her arm, his hand warm through the fabric of her dress. “Are you sure you are all right?”

Two.

With a weak gesture of her hand, Edith waved him away. “I just need a moment. You need not worry.”

Three.

“I’m not going to leave you in such a state,” Aesop objected firmly. “What sort of man would that make me?”

Four.

“An obedient one.” A wry smile tugged at the corners of her lips.

Five.

With one last deep breath, the tingle in her fingers subsided. Edith straightened, her hand leaving the wall. Her serene smile slid back onto her features. “There. Right as rain.”

Aesop gestured for her to lead the way, his features still tight with concern. “Ladies first.”

Edith was not well versed in small talk, but she had no use for awkward silences. “That was an exciting Quidditch match. Can I expect the same energy in the future, or is it simply the excitement of a new season?”

“Quite common, actually,” Aesop said. “Our students are passionate players.”

“Well, I’m glad to see the Hufflepuff team has improved since I was in school.”

“The Ravenclaw team is hardly a threat. They won’t stand a chance against Slytherin.”

She responded with a raised eyebrow. “Someone sounds confident.”

“You can’t argue with history. Slytherin has won the cup for the last 4 years.”

“Sounds like a lucky streak due to end.” Edith delivered the retort playfully.

“Professor Sharp!” A Ravenclaw boy, Thakkar, if Edith remembered correctly, met them between the castle and the pitch. He had run all the way, it seemed, breathless and a little panicked. “The potions classroom. Something’s happened.”

Aesop’s brow furrowed in concern and alarm. He quickened his steps to his classroom, Edith following close behind.

An overflowing cauldron was ruining one of the potion stations. The muddy orange liquid that spilled over its edge warped whatever it touched, steaming and burning away part of the desk. The thick, acidic sludge kept pouring, creeping across the floor.

Standing before it, luckily unscathed, was a young redhead boy.

“Weasley!” Aesop shouted.

With a wave of his wand, Aesop froze the liquid’s advance before it could reach the boy’s shoes.

Garreth looked down in shame. “Sorry, Professor Sharp. I only looked away for a moment.”

Aesop heaved a sigh. “Have I taught you nothing? Brewing potions is a careful business. A cauldron should never be left unattended.”

“Yes, professor.”

“Detention. And points from Gryffindor. Dismissed.”

The look on Garreth’s face suggested he expected as much.

Edith watched Aesop discipline Weasley, noting his reaction. His irritation clearly stemmed from a place of concern, not anger. Not that it was her place to comment, but Edith felt he handled it rather well.

With Garreth out of the room, Edith took out her wand to help clean up the mess. She was rather decent at cleaning and repairing charms, and between the two of them they quickly had the floor clean and unmarked.

“What the devil was that boy trying to do this time?” He muttered as he looked down into the cauldron.

Aesop leaned against the desk, his hand landing atop a stray drop of the caustic brew. Aesop hissed and drew his hand back, looking down to see the substance leaving angry red skin where it had smeared over his palm.

“Professor Sharp?” Edith asked, striding over to him. She held her hand out. “Let me see.”

Her palm was soft against the back of his hand as she studied the blistery mark. Edith tutted softly.

“I suppose a trip to the hospital wing is in order,” Aesop said, though he made no move to remove his hand from Edith’s.

“No need to bother Nurse Blainey. Come with me.” Edith’s voice was gentle, but her tone brooked no argument.

“It isn’t very serious,” Aesop protested, even as he followed her up the stairs.

“It still needs attention. Or do you plan on brewing one-handed for the rest of the week?”

Aesop was silent.

“I’ve seen burns like this before. This treatment has never failed me.”

Edith opened the door to her chambers and ushered Aesop inside, directing him to sit on a sofa in front of the fireplace. Her living area was tidy, as he expected. A tall bookshelf stood to one wall, filled with various tomes. Scattered about the room were plants of varying sizes in equally varying states of growth. A few had enchanted orbs hovering above them, simulating their needed sunlight, while others were being watered by miniature rain clouds.

He continued to observe her surroundings - the soft colors, muted light, floral patterns - while Edith set the kettle over the fire.

“Did you bring me here for tea?” Aesop asked, his lips curving into a smile.

“No, that’s for me. I’m desperate for a cup.” She grinned, picking up a pair of miniature scissors. “But I need the water for something else as well.”

“Seems I always see you drinking tea,” Aesop mused, watching Edith as she approached one of her plants.

“Well, give me a good cup of tea and I can conquer anything.”

Snip. Snip.

A comfortable silence blanketed the room as Aesop watched her work. He recognized the smell of dittany, which she ground in a mortar. A splash of hot water - she paused to add some to her teapot, of course - a sprinkle of a powder from a vial, and her concoction was complete.

Edith knelt beside the sofa, gesturing for Aesop to give her his hand again, and she gently smeared the poultice onto his palm. She glanced up at his face for signs of discomfort, but he remained stoic.

“How would this differ from the dittany salves in the hospital wing?” Aesop asked. He wasn’t harsh, simply curious.

“Freshly cut leaves increase the efficacy,” Edith said softly. “It won’t keep, like the ones Nurse Blainey has, but it is more potent.”

Her explanation was met with silence. Aesop was too distracted by the warmth of her hand on his. He kept catching whiffs of her perfume - violets?

“Hmm… no bandages. This will suffice.” Edith opened the drawer of her side table and took out a handkerchief. A decorative embroidered edge, and her initials in the corner, were stitched into the white cotton with lavender thread.

His gaze remained on Edith’s deft fingers as she folded it into a suitable strip. She pressed it against the dittany mixture on the burn, tying it off on the side of his hand.

Edith nodded in satisfaction. “That should do it.”

“I shall return this,” Aesop, examining her handiwork.

Edith shrugged, giving an indifferent shake of her head. Her voice grew quiet as her eyes met his. “It’s of little importance. I have others.”

Edith cleared her throat softly and stood, sweeping over to her teapot. “Care for a cup?”

Clearing his throat, Aesop rose from the sofa. “I’m afraid I can’t stay. I’ll need to go back to the classroom, make sure Weasley has left no other mischief behind.”

“Well, be careful with that hand,” she told him, lifting the steaming cup to her lips.

Edith stared at Aesop’s retreating form as he left her quarters. She sat in silence for a moment, listening to the crackling of the fire, wrestling with a question.

Why was she so disappointed that he had not stayed for tea?

—

Aesop sighed as he sat down on his bed. He lay back, grateful for a chance to rest his aching leg. It had been quite a stressful day for a Saturday.

Orange flames blazing in the hearth cast shadows on his palm as he held his hand aloft. The neatness of the folds in the handkerchief, the knot holding it in place neither too tight nor too loose. The way Edith’s fingers had danced over his skin, careful and diligent…

Aesop closed his eyes, laying his bandaged hand against his chest. Violet-scented dreams awaited him.

#hogwarts legacy #hogwarts legacy fic #aesop sharp #professor sharp #aesop sharp x oc

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stalpra-and-100-fandoms · 2 years

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A Concept: Red 🙵 White / The 100 | Spy × Family [Part 2]

Part 1

MANGA SPOILERS

Anya didn't know how to feel.

Should I be overjoyed at the fact that I'm not alone?

Should I be horrified at the fact that I'm not alone?

This Adrian guy believed her when she said that she was genuinely one of them (her exposing all his thoughts helped a lot)

So he took her to their hiding place.

It was a warehouse that in its prime used to process grape sweets for the populace.

But after a score of neglect, it could reduce any number of people to a drooling mess, dozing off contentedly.

At least, it should.

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"Who did you bring with you, 42?" a chilling voice sent a shudder up Anya's spine. She tried to locate the brain of the voice. It was floating somewhere above her head.

But that didn't make any sense.

Because she was standing right in front of her.

At first glance, Anya felt that she resembled Agent Nightfall head to toe, from the bob cut to the heavy-lidded eyes to the slender form with a draping jacket over her shoulders.

But as she walked forward, the differences (literally) came to light.

She was much, much younger, and much shorter. She had more hair that was tied behind her head. Her face was rounder with a bigger nose. And most importantly.

She had bubblegum pink hair.

And viridian green eyes.

"Uh... hi?" Anya managed to squeak out, feebly waving her hand.

"Hey," this stranger unexpectedly said, putting out her hand to shake Anya's. "So, you got a number?"

"Seven"

Again, no thinking, no pondering.

The Nightfall doppelganger merely raised an eyebrow, perked up a smile and stared right into Anya's eyes.

The warehouse held its breath and that's precisely when Anya realized that there were more than just the three of them. There were a bunch of people in the corner, a few on the ceiling, about a dozen by the windows. How did she not notice them before?

The smile dropped and the eyebrow furrowed. This ringleader of the abandoned warehouse began to stare daggers at Anya

Anya's mind was swimming and it was getting jiggly, too.

It started out gently but was slowly gaining force. It started in her stomach but climbed up her trachea and calmed down at the base of her throat, before spilling out of her mouth.

Anya's pealing laughter echoed in the warehouse, bouncing of off the walls and banging at the multitude of people present.

Is she... insane?

That girl has a death wish.

That came out of nowhere.

She has been laughing for too long.

Okay, why did she burst out again?

Is she even breathing now?

"Hey," this time much more threateningly, "What's so funny?" The stranger held a sneer as she eyed the intruder, too engrossed to blame Adrian for it.

In her laughter, Anya had bent down and held her knees as her hair shook with her violent laughter.

With a flare, she stood upright and whipped her hair as she did so.

Placing her left hand atop her chest and her right outstretched, palm facing upward, this laughing freak recited with great gravitas:

"Love is heavy and light, bright and dark, hot and cold, sick and healthy, asleep and awake - it's everything except what it is!"

The performance had the exact effect she wanted. The thoughts of the warehouse were narrowed to "Did she seriously quote that book?". The slender stranger felt and looked exposed with a single thought on her mind and lips.

"So, you're actually genuine?"

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(The rest will be info-dumping regarding some characters and the names R&W and The 100)

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

Description: The slender girl Number: 001 Name: Rebecca Power: Ability to manipulate human thinking and comprehension

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

Description: Tall burly boy Number: 042 Name: Adrian Power: Ability to procure invisible appendages

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

Description: Short girl with horn hairclips Number: 007 Name: Anya Power: Ability to read minds

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

Description: Boy with a round face Number: 008 Name: (Up to imagination) Power: Ability to change his body into any of his prior ages. (If he is 28 he can change to look how he did at 9, 16, 25 etc)

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

Description: (Up to imagination, boy) Number: 034 Name: (Up to imagination) Power: Ability to shapeshift into any person

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

Description: Boy with wide structure Number: 048 Name: (Up to imagination) Power: Create portals to teleport

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

Description: Very young boy with wild hair Number: 036 Name: (Up to imagination) Power: Ability to destroy objects through expansion

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

Description: Very young girl with wild hair Number: 037 Name: (Up to imagination) Power: Ability to control objects through contraction

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

The name Red 🙵 White came from the fact that all of their hair is pink, a mixture of red and white. I believe that even canon Anya's pink hair is a side effect of the experimentation done on her. Anime has a reputation for crazy hair colours but as far as we see in the anime and manga, all characters have hair colours that are not outside of the natural spectrum of hair colours, with the exception of Agent Nightfall for some reason.

To add to the previous statement, I also think that Anya's eyes are unnatural side effects. I mean, look at this

She has three colours in her eyes and that's without the highlights that are different hues for some reason.

✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁

The 100 is simply their "mythos name". This is what "The Garden" is to Yor's agency. As a form of defence, the 100 would instigate small attacks on the hunting agencies to let them know that they aren't helpless. By and by, the agencies grew more aggressive and so did the escaped experiments. They slowly make a name for themselves by keeping several large corporations and governments on their toes. To some, the 100 is the representative of the new generation who wants government reform. To others, they are extremists who want to start another war.

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Phew! That took a hot minute to write. To those who have been waiting for this part since part 1, I'm very sorry that it took so long. Writer's block, forgetting to save drafts and fever are not good companions, in any combination. I was planning to write more parts to this but I don't think I'll make it out alive 😅

Thank you so much for reading thus far!

Tagging: @gruviyasharuto, @darkhumanpiekid, @nova-darling, @akhlys-san

If you want to be a part of my Writing Taglist, please proceed to this post or comment on this post

#spy x family #spy family #anya #sxf #anya forger #anime #sxf anya #slight angst #no a lot of angst #post-strix #actually there isn't a lot of angst #fanfiction #fanfic #stalpra wrote something

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wysteriaz-blog · 1 year

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Two Worlds Collided & They Could Never Tear Us Apart

Chapter 7: Mount Natagumo Part 2

The fight on Mount Natagumo continues! Just when it looks like it's the end for you all, two things—or rather people—unexpected make an appearance and save the day!

Or read the series on Ao3 / Wattpad!

▪︎☆°○°☆ Playlist ☆°○°☆▪︎

After defeating the giant monster and taking a moment to breathe, making sure Inosuke was well enough to keep traveling, you all continued to walk further in the forest. You come across a somewhat shallow river and walk along it for a few seconds before you hear the booming sound of thunder, gaining everyone's attention. Your eyes drift upwards expecting to see dark clouds or a hint of rain but the sky was clear.

Tanjiro pauses in his steps. "What was that sound? Did lightning just strike?"

"How should I know?" Inosuke replies, walking closer to the water.

"Well, I'm not smelling any thunderclouds... but that odor got stronger and is messing with my senses again," he says, sniffing lightly and frowning.

He picked up that strange scent again, it was really bothering him and he wanted to find out where exactly it was coming from. He turns to Inosuke, who's getting ready to cross the river by using some boulders that were sticking out of the water.

"Wait, Inosuke!" Tanjiro calls out.

Inosuke stops mid-step, floundering for a moment as he catches his balance with one foot on a rock and the other on the embankment. You snicker at the sight because he's almost doing the splits and has his arms held out funnily.

"What..?!"

"I think we should take this path instead," Tanjiro suggests, pointing in another direction.

"I don't care! Do whatever you want!"

"So.. are you headed back down, then?"

Inosuke pushes backwards and steps fully onto the embankment again, hands on his hips as he turns to Tanjiro. "Back down?"

"Down the mountain..."

"Why would I do that? Just beat it already," he huffs, shooing Tanjiro away.

"Then where are you going? What about all your wounds? I can't just leave you alone..."

"What are you talking about? Don't worry about it, I'm not hurt at all!"

Tanjiro's face screws up. "What? You've got to be kidding, anyone from a mile away could see how bloodied you are—even with the bandages!"

"Quit worrying 'bout me! It takes more than a few measly cuts to take me down!"

"You've lost quite a lot of blood..."

"I'm fine!"

"I think maybe you should leave and take Y/n-san with you, it'll be much safer for you both."

"Quit trying to get me to leave!"

As they continue going back and forth, you wander closer to the water and step onto the boulder Inosuke was previously at. You hop onto another one, slowly going from one to another. There's joy in doing something so simple as leaping from rocks, that you can't help the dumb little grin that appears on your face, as your brain helpfully supplies: 'Hop hop hop!'

You giggle to yourself, feeling a little silly but you don't care, you could honestly use a break from all the anxiety and seriousness.

You aren't too far out, about half way in the middle when you sense something and look up. Your eyes widen when you spot a pale girl—who looked like the boy earlier that floated in the air—and she stares back at you with something akin to curiosity but quickly turns into a frown. Tanjiro and Inosuke take notice of you not being nearby and turn, tensing up as they spot the demon girl as well. Tanjiro's eyes widened. The scent hanging over the mountain blocked him from picking up that a demon was here!

"RRRRAGH! Listen up, you damn demon, I'm gonna tear you to shreds!" Inosuke growls threateningly.

The girl glares, eyes sweeping over everyone before spinning on her heel and running off. "Now, father!"

"Who are you calling father?!" he yells, getting ready to chase after her by hopping onto the same rocks you were on.

Suddenly a big shadow looms overhead and your gaze snaps up to see a giant monster hurtling straight towards you.

"Y/n!!!"

Your body freezes and all you can do is watch as the hulking beast comes down, smashing the ground in front of you, missing you by just a few inches. You're sent flying back from the shockwaves of the attack but Inosuke quickly crosses the river and catches you. He manages to land upright with you in his hold but you're a bit disoriented from spinning in the air so quickly and slip from his hands. Tanjiro is by your side in an instant and helps you up, guiding you to get right behind him. You hold on to the back of his coat, legs feeling like jelly as you try to process what just happened.

"Don't you come near my family!! Stay away from them!" the demon roars.

It punches the boulder you were on and it crumbles into a bunch of pieces. You feel fear slowly start to choke you, its cold claws digging into your chest as it tries to steal your breath away. This monster was bigger than the last one! Besides the enormous size of the thing, it looked normal except for the fact it also had a damn spider's head!! Your fight or flight response is absolutely out of control. Part of you wants to squish the thing like the creepy, disgusting half-bug that it was—completely ignoring the fact it would be impossible—and the other part wants to run away and never look back. Which is the smarter option but your body just won't move.

The demon gets ready to attack again and you let go of Tanjiro and watch as he and Inosuke face it head on. You've seen them battle a monster before but this was bigger and seemed much stronger. You can only hope that they'll defeat this one too. Tanjiro leaps in the air with his blade held over his head, going into a spin before he comes down and tries to slice through its raised arm. His blade only gets halfway through and the demon swings its other arm around to punch him but Inosuke blocks the attack with his serrated blades.

"Its body.. is so.. tough!" Inosuke grits out, as they struggle to cut through its flesh.

It roars and flings them away, going after Tanjiro who lands gracefully on a rock. Inosuke barrels towards the monster thinking it was distracted but it turns around and smashes its fist straight into his chest. He's sent flying back and falls completely in the water. He lays there for a few seconds before bursting up and gurgling from the water in his mouth, leaning over to cough it out.

'Damn it.. all that force with just a single swipe of its arm! I can't beat him in my condition, all this blood loss is making me dizzy...'

Before he can think any more the giant spider demon comes charging at him. Inosuke spins on his heel and starts running but the water is slowing him down. Tanjiro runs along the water's edge and you follow at a safe distance, keeping your eyes on your friends. Your heart feels like it's going to burst as the giant monster gets closer to Inosuke.

"Water Breathing: Second Form—Improved Lateral Water Wheel!"

Tanjiro slices a tree in front of him, causing it to topple over and head straight for the river where Inosuke and the demon are. Inosuke is quick to spot the falling trunk and speeds up as much as he can in order to avoid being crushed by it, the demon wasn't paying attention though and is pushed down into the water. It thrashes around and Tanjiro takes this opportunity to use the final and most powerful form of Water Breathing. He jumps into the water, running towards the demon being held under water by the big tree trunk, leaping at the last second with his blade held high and ready to strike. Right before he is able to attack the demon bursts up from under the trunk and holds it up, swinging it around and smacking Tanjiro midair. The force sends him flying up high through the air and away from the rest of you.

"Kentaro!!"

"Don't die! You guys have to hold on until I make it back," Tanjiro calls out.

You gasp as you watch Tanjiro disappear over the trees before snapping your head back towards Inosuke, who's standing right in front of the giant monster. He kicks water in its face and it roars angrily, wiping it away. Inosuke quickly scrabbles back onto land and you follow him as he darts behind some trees to hide while the demon shakes the remaining water off. He pants, trying to catch his breath and keep quiet but his previous wounds have reopened and are bleeding a lot, leading the demon right to him. It snarls ferociously as it figures out where he's hiding and he freezes up.

'Not.. good..!'

You're dumb—so, so incredibly dumb—but you refuse to let that thing kill your friend!

You jump out of a nearby bush and yell at the monster while waving your arms around, gaining its attention and Inosuke's eyes nearly bulge out of his mask when he sees you. Were you trying to get killed?! The demon growls as it lazily makes its way towards you. You hear the pounding pulse of your heart as you stare at the giant beast, your body shaking as you let it get closer. It speeds up and that's when you turn tail and flee, going as fast as you possibly can. You have to try to lead that thing away from Inosuke and then hopefully lose it and hide. You will your lungs to fill with more air and pump your legs harder as the monster chases after you. Inosuke chokes on his spit trying to yell at you.

What in the hell were you thinking?!

He pushes himself from the tree, staggering slightly as he runs after you and the demon. There's no way in hell he was going to hide away like a little woodland creature, while you take on the demon—how pathetic! He may have lost a lot of blood but he isn't down yet—he can still fight! He picks up the pace and yells wildly as he leaps at the demon, who has its arm raised as it tries reaching for you. Inosuke swings his blade forward and it lands in its arm but it doesn't cut through, so he hits the back of his blade with the other one and uses the force of the hits to try to cut deeper. It works as the demon cries out with its arm falling off and turns to him.

"Alright, I got you now!" Inosuke grunts, kicking the arm away from him. "So, it was as simple as that. If you can't cut something with a sword, all you gotta do is pound on it with another sword! And just my luck, I have the tools for the job! HAHAHAHAAAA!!"

It stares at him before running off and you and Inosuke are taken aback. He sprints after it and you follow behind, struggling to keep up since you used up almost all your energy from running before.

"Are you running away from me?! Hey! Come back here, damn it!"

Inosuke is losing speed and stumbles every now and then, his wounds hindering him and loses sight of the demon. He growls in frustration, stopping in his tracks and uses his spatial awareness again to find the demon. His head shoots up, finding it in a tree.

"There you are! You dung-brained buffoon! Get down here, bastard!"

The demon appears to be trembling but not for the reason Inosuke thinks, as its body starts changing, shedding its skin and it gets bigger. It leaps down, shaking the ground and roars in his face and Inosuke goes blank, his arms falling to his side. He stares hopelessly at the demon as he doesn't see how he can defeat this thing now. It just changed and he could feel even more power coming from it! He was all for getting stronger but this was too much, there was no way he could win now. One punch from it and he'd be pulverized! He was going to die...

Your eyes widen and you scream. "I-INOSUKE!!"

Your scream shatters his thoughts. You sounded utterly terrified, not just for yourself but for him, and Tanjiro's words rang in his ears too. No, he can't die. Not yet. He won't lose—not now—not ever! He raises his fists back up and the demon immediately punches him. He's flung back into a tree but quickly darts away as the demon rushes forward and punches the tree, barely missing him. It was so fast! Inosuke flips in the air behind it and tries slashing the back of its head but it doesn't even make a scratch, instead it breaks his blades.

It whirls around and slams its arm into his body, sending him back into another tree. He falls to the ground with a thud and wheezes, the air knocked out of him. The demon picks him up and holds him up by his head, slowly choking him out. In a last effort, he stabs what's left of his blades into its neck but it unfortunately doesn't do much but make it angrier. It squeezes its hand and starts to crush his skull.

There isn't anything you can do but scream and watch as Inosuke is slowly being crushed to death. Blood seeps from his mask and tears start to burn your eyes, your body falling to the ground, fingers digging into the dirt. This can't be happening! He was going to die! You didn't know if Tanjiro was safe either. Zenitsu should be safe and not on the mountain, but you can't help but fear that something may have happened to him too. And you were certainly going to die next, once the monster killed Inosuke.

No, he was going to die! You were going to see another person—a friend—die a horrible death! Your breathing is short and shallow as you begin to panic, your stomach churning uneasily and making you want to vomit. Everything feels so hot and your head is buzzing, your vision blurry and the edges turning black. You can't breathe. It can't end like this! Please... don't let it end like this!

Whoosh..!

Inosuke falls to the ground as the demon's arm is suddenly sliced off. There's a man standing off to the side and you try to focus your eyes on him as relief floods your system. He was saved... he wasn't going to die. You weren't going to die. The man wears a coat that is half red and the other half is green with an orange pattern. The monster snarls angrily before its arm regenerates and it charges at him. It happens so fast but almost in slow motion, as the man calmly turns and jumps towards it. He lands behind it and the demon freezes in its spot before its body falls into pieces.

Your vision is still spotty and blurry with tears but you saw some of what the man did and it was absolutely amazing! He moved so fast and precisely that he cut the monster in to pieces, in just a matter of seconds. You can't describe the overwhelming mix of emotions you're going through but there's a small smile on your face and you slowly sink to the ground, laying face first in the dirt before promptly passing out.

Inosuke struggles to sit up and his gaze slides to you as you pass out. He tries to get up but can't seem to move, he was totally beat and had no strength left in him. He looks at the man, who looks completely calm and unbothered and stares at him in awe. He was strong, unlike anyone he's ever seen! This guy was on a whole other level. The man deadpans as he takes one look at Inosuke and walks away from him.

"Hold on a second! Fight me, Mr. Mismatched Outfit! You beat that thing and now, right here, I'm gonna beat you," Inosuke yells. "If I can manage that... that'll make me the most.. most powerful of all!"

"I have a better idea. Go train more."

"WHAT'D YOU SAY TO ME?!?!"

Inosuke doesn't even realize he's being tied up with a rope and hung to a tree as he challenges the man. He blinks and makes a strangled sound when he finally notices. What the hell?! How did he do that?! The man ignores him and walks up to you, turning you over on to your back and tilts your face up. You don't look injured, at least not seriously, just a little disheveled. Your hair was messy and dirt sticks to your cheeks.

His face remains blank as he observes you, taking note that you weren't a demon slayer and you didn't appear to be from here either. He continues to ignore Inosuke who hasn't stopped yelling at all and walks away. He had to go somewhere else, as you two would be fine now. He knew there were other demons around that he had to take care of and people to save.

Inosuke huffs and stops thrashing around, exhaustion taking over. "Yeah.. you better.. walk away..."

His head falls to the side as he finally passes out as well.

☽☼☾☽☼☾☽☼☾

Zenitsu's eyes flutter open and he takes a slow ragged breath when a numbing pain washes over him. He can't feel his arms or legs anymore. His eyes keep wanting to close again but he forces them to stay open the best that he can. If Gramps were here, he'd yell at him. Tanjiro would be disappointed, Inosuke would be mad, and you... how would you feel? He isn't too sure but you're all friends now, so maybe you would be sad to see him in such a state. He really wants to take the easy way out right now but he couldn't let you all down—he can't give up! And as if the universe heard his thoughts, a figure gracefully floats down in front of him. It's a woman with dark hair, a big butterfly bow holding it up in the back.

She leans over him, cupping her mouth with one hand. "Hello there," she calls out softly with a small smile, "are you alright?"

He can't speak. He can only manage to make a few groaning sounds, struggling to breathe properly. Her smile doesn't falter even though he doesn't answer and she leans down, pulling out a box and opening it. She picks up a syringe with a clear fluid, flicking it a few times to get rid of the bubble.

"Hmm, good! I can tell you slowed the poison by adjusting your breathing. If you weren't able to do that, you'd be a spider by now. Don't worry, I'm going to inject you with an antidote," she says lightly.

She grabs his arm and finds a suitable spot to place the needle, slowly pushing the plunger to start administering the antidote into his veins. He winces as the strange cool sensation of the antidote courses through him. He hears other voices from below and turns his head to see a group of people freeing the other people trapped in webs. He did it—he didn't give up. His eyes slowly close again and he quickly falls into a deep sleep, knowing he can rest now.

☽☼☾☽☼☾☽☼☾

Tanjiro grits his teeth and braces himself as he plummets down to the ground, far away from his friends. He was going too fast! He needed to use a technique to slow down and soften the impact of landing or else he would get seriously injured.

"Water Breathing... Second Form.. Water Wheel!"

He rolls forward in the air, relieved when the technique mostly works but the landing is still a little rough and he ends up crashing into a tree. He groans as he pushes himself up and hears a girl scream out in pain. He's immediately on high alert and follows the sound of her cries, staying low and hidden as he finds her kneeling on the ground. She looks like one of the demons he saw earlier but her face is covered by her hands as she weeps, blood spilling from between her fingers. His eyes widen when he notices the other demon—the boy—who looks down on her without any emotion. He holds threads in his hands and his gaze subtly moves from the girl to stare right at him, hiding behind a tree.

"What are you looking at? This isn't a play, you know..."

He's appalled and doesn't stop it from showing on his face as he steps out. "Wha—What are you doing? Aren't you two fighting on the same side?"

"The same side? Don't go phrasing it in such an infantile manner," the boy scoffs. "The two of us are family. We're connected by a powerful bond. Regardless of that, this is between me and my sister. If you insist on interfering.. I'll carve you up."

He makes a show of spreading his hands out, the threads glinting dangerously in the moonlight. But Tanjiro isn't deterred by his threat and just scowls.

"You're wrong. Family or comrade, as long as you feel close to one another, that's all that really matters. Saying it's childish if you're not related by blood.. that's not true at all!" He stares back at him with intensity, passion fueling his words as he raises his voice. "Not only that, but those who are strongly connected with each other, give off the scent of trust! But all I'm picking up from you two, is the scent of terror, hatred, and revulsion! That's not something you can call a bond—it's a fake—a forgery!"

The demon's once stoic face changes to one of anger as he turns to him with malice in his eyes. "What did you say? Tell me.. what do you mean? I demand to hear it from you. Come now, explain it to me.."

"Sure, I'd be happy to! What you have isn't a real bond at all!"

The demon moves, threads lashing out towards him. Tanjiro swings his blade up just in time to cut through the threads but one manages to slip by and slash his cheek. He barely noticed, it was hard to detect them.

"Just so you know, I'm not going to kill you in a single strike. Instead, I'll dissect you piece by piece. However, if you take back what you just said to me, I'll make your death mercifully quick."

"I refuse," Tanjiro grits out, standing his ground. "What I said was the unbridled truth—I won't take it back. Not on your life."

He tenses and jumps up as the demon raises his hand and whips out another thread. It cuts into the tree he was just standing by, leaving a horrible mark. He realizes that the stench he's been smelling ever since he entered the mountain was because of this demon. The scent of terror and hatred was so thick before, it was awful but now it was starting to fade and he could detect the threads easier. Good, now he could take him on. He runs forward, leaping into the air to slice at another thread. He gasps sharply when his blade breaks, the thread slashing across his face and he tumbles to the ground.

No way... were these threads really tougher than the demon's body that he couldn't cut through before? He quickly gets up and keeps his eyes on the demon, he can't lose his focus now. Another thread lashes out and he leaps to the side, ducking when it whips back and pushes himself forward. He charges at the demon, if he can't cut the threads then he'll just have to get close and met him head on. But it proves to be difficult when the threads swing around wildly, nearly slicing him. He rolls to the ground to avoid the attacks and pops back up, panting as he and the demon stare each other down, the threads coming to a halt. Tanjiro knows the demon is holding back and yet he's overpowering him...

"What now? Do you still refuse to take back what you said earlier?"

Tanjiro's determined expression remains and the demon's gaze hardens.

"You refuse.. fine, I'll put an end to you now."

The demon raises his hands again and a web of threads come falling down from all around him, they were stretched wide and there were too many of them to dodge. Tanjiro gapes, his body freezing as the webs descend upon him. It couldn't end like this! He had found a member of the Twelve Kizuki and was so close to possibly finding answers of how to turn his little sister back into a human. He wanted to save her. He wanted to save others. But he couldn't fight him alone, he was still too inexperienced and there was nowhere to run. All he could do was watch as the strings descended in slow motion.

'I'm sorry, Nezuko...'

Nezuko...

Nezuko...?

Nezuko...!?

His eyes are wide in disbelief as he stares at the back of her head, her dark locks flowing behind her. Nezuko... was right in front of him and had blocked the oncoming attack, her arms spread out protectively. He doesn't know how or why she was awake after two years of sleeping, but now wasn't the time to question it. He's worried seeing all the deep cuts, blood trickling from her wounds, but he's glad to see her nonetheless. He doesn't want to risk her getting even more injured, so he grabs onto her and carries her over to a safer spot, gently placing her down against the trunk of a tree.

He crouches down to her level, placing his hand on her shoulder and lightly patting her. It was to comfort her, as she was in some pain from the attack but it was also to reassure himself that his little sister was in fact here. He knew that even though she was turned into a demon, she was still alive in a sense, but her being asleep for so long had really started to mess with him. Everyday he'd wake up, hoping to see her awake, smiling, and happy. That maybe this was all just a dream.

But it wasn't and that terrified him. He would have nightmares of her never waking up or that she would actually die and those thoughts would consume him some nights. He had already lost his parents and other siblings, so he couldn't lose her too. That's why he's been training and fighting so hard to find a way to turn her back into a human. That's why his last thought was to apologize to her.. because in the end he couldn't save her either.

But life was funny and cruel, deciding now of all times that she would finally rise from slumber and save him, just when he had lost all hope. He won't lie and say he isn't a little shocked by how she protected him. He's never seen or heard of a person who's been turned into a demon, to not attack people—once turned they were all overcome with bloodlust—just shells of the person they used to be. But here she is, staring at him with a look he instantly recognizes throughout all their years growing up together. In her eyes he can see as clear as day; a mixture of love, trust, admiration, and support. Their family was always close, they had incredibly strong bonds, bonds that were unbreakable even in the face of death.

So, while he is a little shocked, he isn't surprised... because of course sweet, selfless, and strong-willed Nezuko would be the one person to not lose her humanity. Of course she would fight to protect what was important to her. He could cry tears of joy but her face screws up as she grumbles softly, and he notices her left wrist is severely severed, barely hanging on by a few ligaments. His heart sinks seeing her in such pain and instead of tears of joy, tears of sadness prick his eyes. She got hurt protecting him and he feels awful. It wasn't ideal, but her being a demon was all that was keeping him sane right now, as she should be able to heal quickly.

"N-Nezuko, hang in there! You.. protected me, thank you. I'm so sorry, you got hurt because of me!"

The other demon girl had been silently watching her brother and the human fight. She stands and finds her hand clutched against her chest, a strange feeling washing over her.

"The girl emerged from that box and defended him.. but I'm sure she's one of us..."

The boy stares at Tanjiro and Nezuko, pointing a shaky finger in their direction. "Is—Is she.. your sibling?"

"And so what if she is?!" Tanjiro barks back, not sparing him a single glance as he was too focused on holding her wrist together.

He had thought that she would be able to heal quickly, but she wasn't healing very fast, which made him worry a lot. Why wasn't she healing?! He has to protect her now.

"Siblings. Siblings. His sister's been turned into a demon, yet she stays by his side..." he rambles to himself, ignoring the girl by his side. "She risked her own life... to protect him. That is a genuine bond and it'll be mine!"

"R-Rui, hold on a second! Please reconsider, I'm your elder sister.. you can't abandon me!"

"SHUT UP!"

She gasps as she's flung back by a powerful sweep of his webs, slicing her into pieces and falls to the ground. He looks down at her with contempt and Tanjiro listens to them with sadness and anger coursing through him.

"None of you were ever able to fulfill the roles you were assigned. Not once, in your entire life."

Tears threaten to spill from her lash line, her voice wobbling. "Wait.. brother, wasn't I the elder sister that you wanted? Give me another chance!"

"Very well, then. Go kill the humans wandering all over this mountain. If you do that, I'll forgive you for what happened."

"A-Alright..." Her body has mostly healed and she picks up her head. "Yes, I'll do that..." she mumbles, running off into the forest.

"Boy, come on over here..." Rui beckons Tanjiro over.

Tanjiro briefly glances over his shoulder, wondering why the demon—Rui—was being so calm and almost friendly now. He was up to something...

"What your sister did, I found it genuinely moving to behold. I doubt any words exist that describe exactly what I felt." Rui places a hand over his chest, where his heart should be. "However, your fate now is death, a disagreeable conclusion for you no doubt. So, listen close... I'll impart to you how you can escape your fate. It involves your sister. I want you to give her to me. If you do so, then I will spare your life."

Tanjiro's blood runs cold and the hair at the back of his neck raises. "I have no idea what you're talking about.."

"As of today, instead of being your little sister, she's mine."

"You don't actually think I'd ever agree to that, do you?" Tanjiro mutters lowly, hugging Nezuko closer. "First off, Nezuko's not a thing! She has her own will and feelings! There's no way she'll ever be your sister!"

"It's alright, you don't need to worry. I'm stronger than you. I will create a bond with her, one made of terror. She'll know what happens when I'm defied—"

"I'VE HAD ENOUGH OF YOU SPOUTING THIS NONSENSE! USING FEAR TO KEEP SOMEONE SHACKLED TO YOU, ISN'T THE BOND OF A FAMILY! AND UNTIL YOU ARE ABLE TO FIGURE THAT OUT, YOU'LL NEVER GET WHAT IT IS YOU DESIRE!"

"So irritating, would you mind not shouting? It's clear we don't agree."

Tanjiro gives Nezuko one last look before he stands up and shrugs the box off his shoulders, walking out in the open to face Rui with a hardened glare, fists closed tightly by his side. He was willing to fight and do whatever it takes to save her. He'd rather die than let her be taken away.

"I'll never hand Nezuko over to you!"

"Very well, then. I'll just kill you," Rui sighs, sounding almost disappointed.

"Not if I manage to cut off your head first!"

"Now, that's the spirit. I would love to see you try... let's see if you can take down a being like me!"

He grins as he pushes some hair away from his face, revealing his eye that was covered by the strands and has the words 'Lower Five' inscribed. Tanjiro had already thought of him to be one of the Twelve Kizuki and it looks like he was correct. He holds his broken blade out, tightening his grip on the hilt as he and Rui face each other once again. It wouldn't be easy to cut his threads, so what would he do if his neck was even tougher? His sword was broken, so he has to think of some way to defeat him.

"That steely look in your eyes, I don't like it. What are you plotting? Don't tell me that you think you'll be able to defeat me!" Rui snarls, quickly swinging his hand out.

Threads shoot out but they don't go for Tanjiro and wrap around him, latching onto Nezuko and yanking her away. Tanjiro watches wide-eyed as she's pulled straight into Rui's arms, a vein popping from his forehead. Rui holds her against him, an arm slung around her neck to keep her in place and holds his other hand out with the threads.

"It's settled. I'll be taking her..."

"LET HER GO!!"

Tanjiro launches himself forward as Nezuko struggles against him, growling as she pries at his arm. Her sharp nails elongate and she slashes his face, distracting him enough so he messes up when flinging his threads out to try and stop Tanjiro. It helps give him that split second he needed to dodge the attack, flipping backwards and landing safely. He looks back up to find Nezuko missing from Rui's side, his face contorting in a mix of emotions. Big droplets of blood fall down and splash right in front of him and his gaze shoots up to find her being held up in the air by threads, dangling upside down. Blood pours down from her wounds as the threads that hold her in place cut into her flesh.

"NEZUKO!!!"

"Quiet down, this isn't enough to kill her—she's a demon. But it does appear I'll have to teach her a lesson. I'm going to let her bleed for a while. If she won't learn to be obedient, I'll just leave her like that until daybreak. And then let her burn..."

Tanjiro is furious, yelling from the top of lungs as he charges at him. "I WON'T ALLOW IT! LET HER GOOOOO!!"

He tries to get close but Rui sends more threads out and they whip across his body, stopping him and he tumbles to the ground. He slowly pushes himself up to his hands and Rui walks up to him, kicking him square in the chest, which sends him flying back into a bush. Tanjiro coughs, blood spilling from the corners of his mouth as he tries to catch his breath but Rui comes over, striking him with a powerful backhand. Tanjiro stumbles away, managing to stay upright but he slightly trembles as he pants and coughs up more blood.

"I may be mistaken here... but you think if you get close enough to me, you can chop my head off, don't you?" He slowly steps closer, an amused glint in his eye as he spreads his arms out and makes himself vulnerable. "Well then, here. Give it a shot!"

Tanjiro doesn't hesitate to swing at him but Rui dodges the broken blade and punches him, making Tanjiro spin from the force of it, but Tanjiro uses that momentum to spin back around and land his blade against Rui's neck. He grunts, gritting his teeth as his hand trembles, struggling to cut through his neck. He's using all the strength he has at the moment but it won't go through.

"Didn't I tell you? You have no chance against me." Rui kicks Tanjiro in the gut and sends him flying back. "If you can't even cut those threads, then you'll never be able to cut my neck."

Nezuko watches her brother being beaten and thrashes against the threads angrily, struggling to free herself. Tanjiro is miraculously still conscious but he doubts if he'll be able to win this fight, he's already taken a lot of blows, his blade was broken, and he couldn't cut through his neck—let alone the threads! This was the might of one of the Twelve Kizuki... the power of a demon closely related to Muzan Kibutsuji.

Rui turns to Nezuko as she wiggles around, grunting in frustration. "You're noisy... if you don't quiet down—"

He tightens the threads around her and Nezuko shrieks in pain, more blood gushing out and she passes out. Rui watches her curiously, tilting his head. He could sense her aura was different from other demons.

"How interesting..."

"STOP THAT!!"

Tanjiro can feel rage simmering below the surface, begging to lash out, but he has to calm himself down and not play into Rui's hands. He can't get emotional. He has to concentrate. Control his breathing. Unleash the most precise final form—total concentration! His breaths even out and he stands, getting into a stance before kicking off. Rui turns back to him and whips out more threads, expecting to finally take him down but Tanjiro brings his broken blade up and cuts right through a thread, continuing to barrel straight for him. Rui's eyes widen as Tanjiro slices through more threads, making his way closer with every swoop.

"You don't think these threads are at maximum strength, do you?!" he seethes, becoming a little worried.

He crosses his hands and the threads he makes glow red with power. He makes a cage out of them, surrounding Tanjiro and brings his hand back to pull the strings taut so as to cut him into pieces. Everything moves in slow motion as Tanjiro's life seems to flash before his eyes, distant memories fading in and then there's nothing but white, until he sees his father's face. He smiles at him and the vision wavers, a new one taking it's place, showing him dancing in the cold snow. It was his father's Kagura dance. He remembers being fascinated by it at a younger age, watching him with his mother and siblings. His father was a sickly man but he would dance and dance, his movements were fluid and strong as he held his head high, never faltering in his steps.

He remembers he had later been told by his father that there was a breathing technique, one that would prevent someone from ever exhausting themselves if they could master it. He told him that if he could find the correct way to breathe, he too could dance forever, and that even the cold wouldn't bother him. The ceremonial dance and the pair of earrings his father had always worn, had been passed down to him. They served as reminders of where he came from, who he was, and what was most important to him—of those that he held close to his heart and loved.

His vision comes back and he furrows his brows with a new energy bursting from within, inhaling sharply and spinning in the air as the dance manifests into a technique.

"Hinokami Kagura Dance!"

He cuts through the threads and continues running, yelling with his entire chest as he pours everything he's got—all of his strength, anger, sadness, and love—in to trying to defeat him and protect Nezuko. Closer and closer, he cuts through every single thread until he finally closes the distance and swings, his broken blade arcing towards his enemy. Rui jumps back and dodges the oncoming attacks but stumbles and is barely keeping Tanjiro at bay. Tanjiro pays no mind to the few stray threads that whip at him, he was going to take him down now, even if it meant getting slashed in the process! If it was the last thing he'd ever do, he would save Nezuko!

"Nezuko. Nezuko. Wake up, Nezuko..."

A voice calls out, softly ringing in her ears but her eyes remain closed, even as a gentle touch caresses her face. The voice—her mother—sounds sad, afraid, but still so very warm, just like her touch. She misses her... she misses her father... she misses her siblings. But Tanjiro, he was still here. She could feel it. But there was a darkness inside her that craved for something, something that the light inside her knew was wrong, and she fought against it. She was.. different now.

She doesn't remember much but she knows something happened and it was the reason why her closed eyes were stinging with unshed tears. The reason why her heart aches with a devastating sadness and unbridled rage. Her family... they had all been taken from her. But Tanjiro was still here and her mother was with her in spirit, urging her to wake up, desperation lacing her voice.

"You need to save your brother. You're capable of doing so, I know you are. Nezuko, help him... your brother will be killed if you don't!"

Nezuko's eyes snap open, growling as her hand reaches out and twists, activating her power with a clench of her first.

'Blood Demon Art—Exploding Blood!'

The threads burst into flames and the fire spreads rapidly, heading straight for Rui and his eyes bulge when he sees every single thread burn away, giving Tanjiro the perfect opportunity to swing his blade into his neck. Nezuko roars as Tanjiro yells passionately, telling Rui that their bond was not one that could be severed by anyone, and this time his blade cuts straight through his neck. Rui's head falls to the ground with a thud and Tanjiro collapses to his knees, Nezuko falling down in front of him and he reaches out for her, his vision blurry.

"N-Nezuko," he groans in pain but a small smile spreads on his face, his words trailing off as he succumbs to exhaustion, "we did it.. we won..."

But Rui is still alive and gets ready to attack them again while they're down. Tanjiro can't move and he's devastated to know that they didn't actually win. Why didn't he die? He had thought he sliced his neck! Was this the end? Was all of that for nothing?! But then a figure comes from out of nowhere and silently dispatches the demon and Tanjiro passes out just as the man walks up to him.

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skzhocomments · 8 months

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I can read your smile - Choi Minho SHINee Fanfic - Chapter 7 - Truth or Dare

Story masterlist - please consult it for the summary of the story, trigger warnings etc.

Wattpad | AO3

Chapter 6 | Chapter 8

---

Chapter 7 - Truth or Dare

word count: 2.4k words

~third person POV~

"So, what shall we play now that we ate?" Jimin rubbed his hand, and Crystal couldn't help but chuckle; he looked strikingly similar to a fly rubbing its little hands mischievously.

Everyone was sitting in the large chairs around the big fire pit on the patio in the garden, listening to the sounds of the insects that were probably jumping around the grass in the dark.

Jinki and Lydia were roasting marshmallows together, Jude and Key were dipping them in Nutella, Minho, Taemin and Kai were drinking beer and chatting and Jimin and Crystal were busying themselves with glancing around and observing the others.

Jimin probably got bored of doing nothing, so he let that question go and float around in the air. Everyone ignored him.

"Psst. Can I borrow that?" He leaned over to Crystal and pointed to the napkin in her hand. She was folding and unfolding it mindlessly, keeping her hands busy.

"This?" Crystal raised it in the air. "Sure, what for?"

"Watch this."

Jimin folded it in a ball and threw it to hit Kai's head, making the three boys drinking beer look in their direction.

"Yah, what was that for?" Kai asked, annoyed.

"It was Crystal." Jimin raised his hands in front of him protectively, and looked at the girl in an accusing way.

"Wh-"

"Woah, Crystal, wanna go back in the water and finish that war we started earlier?!" Kai stood up and shouted, making Taemin and Minho laugh.

The commotion made the other two pairs pay attention as well, when Jimin decided that the moment was perfect to ask the magic question again. Only this time, it wasn't a question, but a demand.

"Let's play something! 1001 questions, to get to know each other."

"Boring." Key whined.

"What, you wanna play Truth or Dare and have to dress up as a clown again?" Taemin mocked him, making Key raise a fist in the air threateningly.

"Oh my! Did that happen?" Jude laughed, and Key started a heartfelt speech about how much Taemin's been bullying him ever since they met.

"Truth or Dare sounds funnier to me too." Jinki added.

"Let's vote. Who wants to play 1001 questions?" Taemin said, and saw Crystal's, Jimin's and Jude's hands in the air. "Then, what about Truth or Dare?" All the other people around the fire raised their hands, so the game was decided.

"Let's use this." Minho said, chugging down his bottle and placing it empty in front of him.

"It's going to be a bit difficult with the fire and all..." Jimin titled his head. Let's just have someone spin it every round, and we'll see how it goes.

"May I?" Jude raised her hand. "I always loved spinning it."

"But you don't like playing it?" Key chuckled.

"No. I don't want to have to do embarrassing things."

"Which reminds me-" Jinki started. "We can only pick truth or dare one time before picking the other."

"What? What kind of rule is that?" Lydia laughed.

"To force everyone to pick both as often as possible, of course." Taemin grinned.

"Okay, toss the bottle over." Jude gestured towards her, and Minho pushed it on the ground, and it rolled until it reached her foot.

~Crystal's POV~

"Are y'all ready?" Jude grinned and spun the bottle, and it first landed on the birthday boy.

"Ok, so are you gonna give me the first dare?" He asked.

"Sure." The girl grinned. "So you're going to pick dare. That's bold."

"It's my birthday, you can't hurt me." Taemin boasted proudly, but I personally thought that was foolish of him. Jude was easily the evillest person I knew. That girl could be malicious if you were on her wrong side, and Taemin happened to be on her wrong side after pointing out that it was his birthday so he was untouchable.

He apparently doesn't know that she eats men for dinner.

"You sure about that?" Jude cackled maniacally, and Key leaned towards her and whispered something in her ear. Jude then turned around and mouthed a "Seriously?!", then grinned like the Cheshire cat.

"Bring it on." Taemin leaned in front and waited.

"Okay, I decided." The girl contemplated after a few seconds. "It's easy. You just have to eat a carrot."

"What?!" Taemin's mouth dropped. "No!"

"Yes!"

"What happens if we don't want to answer the question or do the dare?" Lydia asked.

"There's no such thing as not answering the question or not doing the dare." Kai looked straight at her in a deadpan way. "If you don't want to, you will take 3 shots of vodka then do it. Simple."

"Wh-what?" Lydia asked again, shocked. "I've never heard of such a dumb rule, what's the point of drinking if you can't avoid the question or dare either way?"

"It's just how we play, sweetheart." Jimin answered. "Makes things more interesting. Alcohol is liquid courage, then we do or answer whatever."

Taemin stood up and grabbed the Absolut glass bottle, pouring himself one shot. He downed it like a champ, and he continued to do so for the next 2 shots, then grabbed a small carrot from the table and ate it in super-speed, pinching his nose.

"He's such a baby." Jude laughed. "Why does he hate carrots anyway?"

Key shrugged. "No clue, he just despises the poor vegetable like it did something to his family."

"Okay, next!" Taemin downed another shot to wash off the carrot taste, and Jude spun the bottle again, and it landed on Kai.

"Hehehe." Taemin laughed similar to Jude, in a really evil, messed up way.

"Oh no." Kai shook his head. "I don't like that smirk. Truth."

"Don't be a coward." Jimin scolded him, and Minho playfully slapped his arm.

"Fuck. Fine. Dare."

"I'll go easy on you, okay?" Taemin patted his knee in fake comfort.

"I don't trust you." Kai retorted.

"Yell out the first word that comes to mind."

"GUCCI!" Kai shouted and stood up, doing a happy dance.

"Right up my alley!" Jude winked, and Key chuckled, placing his left hand on Jude's tight and whispering something in her ear.

Curious. I thought. Why the heck were my two single friends getting so comfortably close to Key and Jinki?

What the fuck is going on?

"I knew I could count on you, Taeminnie!" Kai hugged Taemin, making me shift my attention from Key and Jude to him once again. He then went to the table and poured himself two shots as well, downing them.

"Why are you drinking? You did the dare." I asked amused.

"Why aren't you?" He shrugged. "I suggest we all take a shot each round. Let's get hammered."

I rolled my eyes.

The next bottle landed on Lydia, who picked truth.

"Hmm. What celebrity would you absolutely love to see naked?"

"Ohhh, that's a great question." Lydia chuckled. "Let me think."

"I can answer for you, Lydia, you always talk about that one guy." Jude started, and I burst out laughing. I knew exactly who she was referencing.

"Hahah, yes, that's true. It's easy enough. The singer Jonghyun. Do you know him?" Lydia asked the people around the fire.

"He's God sent." Jude agreed, and Taemin nodded as well in approval.

"We should play some of his songs!" Jimin suggested and grabbed his phone that was already connected through a Bluetooth speaker, and clicked on a random album of Jonghyun called She is.

Jude spun the bottle again, and it landed on Minho, who unsurprisingly picked dare.

"Read out the last message you sent Taemin."

"Pfft." He scoffed. "Easy enough. It says Birthday boy if you don't open the door rn I'm gonna jump the fence."

I burst out laughing, remembering how focused Minho was when typing out that text earlier in the car, while we waited for the gates to open so we could park in the garden. I knew he was half-joking, half-serious. Minho was definitely the type to jump the fence in the right circumstances.

The bottle was once again spun and it landed on me, and I picked dare, since Minho was probably the least malicious person in this circle.

"Sing us a song that reminds you of one of your friends." He smiled.

"Hey Jude, don't make it bad~" I started, and soon enough more people around the fire started singing along, and Jude pressed her face in her palms blushing "Take a sad song, and make it better."

She waved her hands around to stop us from singing any further, embarrassed by the whole ordeal, and she spun the bottle, which landed on Jinki.

"Truth."

"Do you talk in your sleep?"

"Nah, if I sleep, I literally don't move or wake up, no matter what."

"I wish." Jimin chuckled.

"He can literally have 10 alarms; he won't hear them!" Taemin spoke, and I found it amusing. Did they use to have lots of sleepovers?

The next bottle landed on Lydia.

"Dare." She said, and Jinki smiled.

"Rate everyone playing from most to least favourite."

"Crystal, Jude, you, Taemin, Jimin, Minho, Key, Kai." She spoke without missing a beat, and Taemin scoffed.

"Why did you put him before me?! You literally met today!" Taemin asked annoyed, pointing at Jinki.

"Right. You should've been first, since it's your birthday. Oh, well." Lydia shrugged, and Taemin was ready to throw hands.

After many rounds of Truth or Dare, some of us were slightly tipsy, others completely drunk, and the game was still going.

Jude spun the bottle and it landed on Key, who picked Dare.

A mistake, since Kai, who was the drunkest in the circle, moved from the innocent dares to more... daring ones.

"I dare you to go to Seven minutes in heaven with Jude." He chuckled and downed another shot, and we were all a bit shocked by the boldness. Of course, we all noticed the sexual tension between Jude and Key, who were getting touchier with each other with each shot of vodka.

"Can you even make others participate in the dare?" Lydia raised a brow suspiciously.

"Of course!" Kai retorted, baffled.

"Okay." Jude spoke so quietly, almost in a whisper. Her face was all red.

"Before you go, just spin the bottle and give the dare to whoever." Taemin instructed them, and they obediently agreed. It landed on Jimin.

"Dare."

"I dare you to... hit Taemin two times." Key spoke with urgency, then grabbed Jude's arms and helped her stand up, and they disappeared.

"That's mean." Taemin muttered under his breath, but took the two hits like a champ.

Jimin then went and grabbed the bottle, spinning it himself. It landed on me.

"Dare." I smiled. I was also fairly intoxicated and felt myself slurring my words a bit. I was also getting sleepy.

"Since we're making couples tonight, I wanna play cupid too." Jimin grinned. "You have to go sit in someone's lap for the next 10 rounds."

"On whose lap?" I tilted my head.

"Whoever the bottle next lands on."

"Okay." I chuckled, and Jimin spun the bottle again. It landed on Minho.

"Is it okay?" I asked him, standing up, then made my way around the fire until I reached his seat.

"Of course." He smirked, leaning down on the chair and making space for me to sit.

His legs were muscular, but surprisingly comfortable, and he supported my back by holding my waist with his arm.

I fought every urge not to blush, feeling his arm around me, his hand on my right thigh, and his breath on my neck.

"Minho has to pick truth or dare, and Crystal has to give him one." Jimin stood down.

"Don't pick dare, I'm comfortable." I whispered in Minho's ear, and he laughed, and oh, how beautiful he was. I was way too drunk to be sitting in his lap at 1AM.

"Truth." He said, and I asked him something random, like who the funniest person in the circle was.

After he replied, Key and Jude also stammered back, both of their lips red and swollen. I could imagine what happened, and I felt happy, seeing how much Jude was blushing and how they were holding their hands like they were teenagers in love.

How cute!

Jude took back her duty of spinning the bottle, and it landed on Kai, who was now so drunk, he finally picked Truth for the first time that night. He was the one who imposed the "you can't pick truth or dare more than once every turn", but still, no one truly respected it, and no one took it seriously either. It was, after all, just a dumb game.

"Who's the most attractive person in this circle?" Minho asked, and Kai, of course, named himself.

The bottle was spun and it once again landed on me – on my now empty seat. I picked Truth.

"What's your funniest memory of Taeminnie?" Kai slurred his words.

"When you first met." Minho whispered in my ear, and I felt a shiver running down my spine.

Fuck, his voice.

He was so close.

What would happen if I turned my head right now? Would he be close enough for me to kiss him?

I'm too drunk.

I laughed it off and told them all about Taemin's first day in Uni, and about how he tripped, and we all laughed, and I got comfortable in Minho's lap, and his hand was firmly on my thigh, and I couldn't focus on anything else because my heart was racing so fast I was sure it would jump out of my chest.

Rounds were played, and probably way more than 10 already passed, but I was still in Minho's arms, and I felt sleepy, and he would laugh in my neck every once in a while, when someone would say a funny thing. And when he noticed I was yawning, he moved his hand from my thigh to the side of my head and pushed me slowly towards his shoulder, and it was comfortable, like my head was meant to be in the crook of his neck, so I closed my eyes and dozed off.

~third person POV~

"We should all go to sleep." Lydia yawned. "I see Crystal's out of it already."

"She drank a lot." Taemin commented. "And she said she's not much of a drinker."

"And tomorrow's a big day, birthday boy." Key winked, referencing the fact that Taemin's birthday was actually tomorrow, on Saturday, and today was just a party before the party.

"Hey." Minho caressed Crystal's face, and she woke up confused.

"Huh?" She asked puzzled, not understanding where she was, or what happened. "Did I fall asleep? I'm so sorry-" she moved and stood up, stumbling on her feet once she left Minho's lap.

How long did I... she began to wonder, when she felt Jude hug her from behind.

"Let's go to sleep, I'm tired."

They all headed to bed, and the night was over.

---

Chapter 6 | Chapter 8

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timelord-emmet · 9 months

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Story Chapter

Agent Looker sighs as they exit Azelf cave carrying the unconscious Subway Boss in his arms , the Champion of Sinnoh Lucas following closely worriedly glancing at the unconscious man in white holding their hat that fell off when he collapsed .

^ You sure he be ok? ^ the teen asks as they observe the area quietly

Looker hums - I’m sure he be fine like i said it’s most likely mental and physical exhaustion , he has hardly taken a break from his quest to find his brother and been rushing ahead.

The Agent looks down at the said man , he is barely smile at best his mouth is a netruel line , dark bags under his eyes and messy silver hair , once again some blood dropped down their nose and chin from Azelf trial of will.

-When we get to the pokémon Centre we will have him checked out properly , for now let’s cross the lake we used a borrowed boat do you happen to have a pokémon that can tow us ? It cut down the travel time-

He suggests placing the man in the boat and pulling out a tissue to wipe the blood then sit in said boat, Lucas follows nodding and unleashing a Gyrados , hopping in the boat he pats the giant pokémon and offers them a rope.

^ Hey girl can you tow us across?^

Looker quickly ties the ropes other end to the boat as the pokémon nods , bites down at the offered item and starts swimming, all the while Emmet still stays unconscious .

-This man won’t last long if he continues like this- he sighs quietly to himself then flinched as he feels a presence land on his shoulders , the familiar Shiny Mesprite appearing wrapped around him.

~ Agreed which is why we should keep him bed bound for a few days now that we have one last trial left~ the psychic pokémon says

Looker nods -Y-yes ahem...please don’t do that , i rather you not sneak up on me -

That just gets a amused look from the mythical as they reach shore , Lucas jumping out as Sprit floats off the Agents shoulders making him relax from his tense stance and he bends down to pick up Emmet , as they hop out the boat Sprit suddenly dissapears with a cautious trill making Looker tense once more.

-.......Sprit?-

^Uh why did they?^

~ Danger ! Dodge now!~ the trill echoes in their head and Lucas yelps jumping backwards as a dark pulse barely misses him , Looker curses as he searches the tree line for the attacker and wonders where he could get the STILL knocked out Subway Boss to safely ,he really should get himself a new pokémon partner soon.

The Agents thoughts are interupted as a Purugly appears with an assortment of other pokémon raging from Driftblims , Onix and a Magnimite which unleashed a thunder bolt at Lucas Gyrados hitting it HARD, the hulking beast refuses to go down in one hit though as Lucas calls out a move , dragon tail .

^ I recognise that Purrugly!^

-Me too..- Looker frowns as a familiar Team Galatic Commander walks over the red head smiling , behind her multiple grunts with more pokémon with them , they look slightly different their uniforms having decals that resemble constellations or gas clouds in space .

‘ Well well well , if it ain’t Agent Looker and Champion Lucas , thought you seen the last of us huh?’

^ After the multiple failed attempts after Cyrus ditched your butts yea!^ Lucas huffs his Gyrados roaring threateningly

Mars huffs ‘ Cyrus did not ditch us! he just achieved his vision! back then we didn’t know how to continue without him, but now we do! we’re gonna reach beyond the stars! and you three are gonna help’

The Commander grins sharply and Lucas scoffs ^ Yea right! Gyra ! Use Ice Fang! ^

Gyrados roars and aims for the Purugly which Mars commands to dodge and unleash a thunder bolt hitting the water pokémon directly that couple with the first one cause the giant to fall , Lucas recalling and cursing he grabs another pokeball ready to fight some more when .

‘ NOW USE IT NOW!’

Mars yells and suddenly the grunts behind her throw out weird devices that blue lights turn on and pulse , unleashing a massive power wave that hits the trainers and Agent causing them to cry out and collapse, Looker trying hard not to drop Emmet as he falls to his knees , gritting his teeth .

‘You like that? Pulse Pullers they create a powerful pulse that can affects ones personal gravity of course it’s mainly for subduing but can do a few other things , now join your nap like your buddy there cause your coming with us’

she snaps her fingers and a Roserade walks up to them covering them in sleep powder , the two try to stay awake but ultimately succumb falling asleep.

——————————-

6 hours later::

Emmet groans having a pounding headache as he slowly rises to consciousness , his brow furrowing as his hazy mind tries to put together what has happened , he slowly blinks his eyes as feeling comes back then suddenly startled jolting awake at an uncomfortable feeling .

Looking to his arms he is alarmed to see himself chained , arms raised up with strange shackles with blue lights on them that seem to suppress his time powers? How he knows that is confusing as it doesn’t feel like it’s flowing as freely as it has been before , the Subway Boss looks around the strange room he is suspended in , steel grey walls with steel grey blue , a few tech things he doesn’t understand or know.

All n all pretty dull in Emmets opinion and a bit irked as he realises he is missing his Conductor coat and hat, including gloves he feels a bit to vulnerable .

: Finally awake i see:

A male sauve voice calls out catching Emmets attention , a man with deep blue hair that’s frankly in a horrid hair style walks up to him with a smirk.

: Hello mister Emmet or should i say Subway Boss or is it Subway Master? ah whatever you call yourself now a days :

The Consuctor hums “ Hmmm I am Emmet do i know you?”

:Hah no i suppose you wouldn’t being from Unova hm? I’m Saturn Commander of Team Cosmic Galatic:

That makes Emmet raise a brow , he has heard of Team Galatic but Cosmic? Must be a new faction after the first failed honestly same thing happened with Team Plasma.

“I see , well Mister Saturn i am on a tight schedule and would like you to release me “ he tugs a little on his shackles

:Afraid not , you see we found it oh so curious how a famous Subway Boss travelling from Unova to Hoenn to Johto THEN here to Sinnoh quite intresting and more so when we heard you are taking on TRIALs from the lake guardians especially of your new found POWERS:

The Subway Boss can’t help feel a little nervous at this how did they even hear about his powers? Has he been tailed this whole time? Suppose he wouldn’t know for sure considering he has been on a one track mind this entire time , Looker and Sprit have been really carrying him through this , that makes him jolt suddenly at a thought.

“Where is Mister Looker and Sprit ?”

Saturn hums : Ah the Interpol Agent is locker away for now as for this Sprit you speak of, its that gold Mesprite yes? They seemed to have alluded us for now:

:But enough of all that , your here for a reason your gonna be a valuable assets for us :

“Your verrrrry dumb if you think i’ll work for you”

:Willingly yes i understand you have trouble to do so but with some persuasion, we’ll we do have leverage not only with Looker but also the Champion Lucas and if THAT still doesn’t help you be friendly with us :

Saturn walks over to a consolconputed of sorts and press a button .

Suddenly Emmet is screaming , unnatural energy, electricity is shooting through himnot only that it feels like it’s like it’s invading his body but ALSO taking from his body, his powers he can feel the shackle device DRAINING it forcefully and fuck fuck fuck !!! Does it burn!

Then electricity suddenly stops and Emmet heaves ,twitches and gasps coughing his head hung low , once he gets his breath back he looks up slowly red rings around his silver eyes as anger builds up and he glares at Saturn.

: That’s certainly a death glare, how intresting : the commander comes closer and lifts the conductors chin to get a good look at his eyes to see if the red is really there.

:Wonder what other physical effects those powers of yours have you? The red around the irises is certainly menacing, moving on though here’s the million dollar question:

he lets go of Emmets chin and steps away

: Are you gonna co-operate willingly? or we gonna take what we want painfully and forcefully:

“..............What do you even want with my powers?.....”

:What a stupid question but i’ll humour you, Time is infinite, time is powerful, fragile, multiple yada yada so much can be done with time, and to have such powers we could do anything with it, reshape the world like Cyrus dreamt off but in OUR version , alter history , create new futures , extend beyond our planet, stars and worlds it’s just so much! but of course we need trial runs so once you give us what we want we will start with your Brother:

Emmet jerks up and snarls his ever present smile dissapearing for the moment .

“MY BROTHER HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THIS!”

Saturn laughs : Really? Isn’t he the whole reason your on this quest? searching through time for him? Lend us your powers and together we can find him:

Emmet grits his teeth baring them his smile slowly etching back on his face looking manic .

“You must be reaaaaaallly stupid if you think you can emotionally manipulate me into surrending so easily “

The Commander sighs finger hovering over the button .

: Can’t say i didn’t try , though remember. : Saturn stares at the Subway Boss in the eyes .

:You brought this on yourself and have no one else to blame:

he presses the button and Emmet screams as electricity is brough back to life and courses through his body while simultaneously his powers are taken and drained from his body , Saturn leaves after setting a timer .

———————————

After one week of torture, Emmet still refuses Saturn’s offer , even after his friends are threatened he refuses , these powers were given to him by Celibi , the pokémon trusts him with such powers .

He will not break

In one week Agent Looker managed to escape with Lucas along withSprits help who teleported in but was injured greatly during the escape leaving Emmet still in Team Cosmic Galatic’s hands .

Emmet is thrilled at hearing gossiping grunts vent in frustration at the news , he hopes they weren’t hurt to badly.

————————-

Two days after week one , Agent Looker and Champion Lucas prepare to storm the headquarters .

Emmet hangs limp in his shackles when the attack happens after barely staying conscious to listen to Saturn’s rambles about what his powers could do and blah blah blah , it’s all gibberish at this point and frustration as they realise since their forcing it out of the Subway Bosses very veins it crumbles and fails to store away properly .

Saturn huffs : All we want is to see what you can TRULY do, do this for us and you will be freed:

> EXPLOSION<

A sudden explosion and rumbling makes Saturn yelp as he is lurched foward stumbling standing he looks around as the power cuts out teeth gritting and yelling orders to the grunts .

Then theirs chains creaking , metal screeching and clanging as they are continuously pulled and thrashed against before snapping and popping and footsteps hit the ground, the commander looks over to their prisoner as emergency lights shine above them, blood pours down from the still shackled but freed man skin around the edges turning a sick purple black as bruises form mixed with red.

“You wanna know what i can do?”

Emmets head shoots up arms raises smile absolutely mad and manic , the skin under his eyes black and irisis circled by red as blue energy forms around his hands .

I’LL SHOW YOU!!

Saturn and the grunts scream.

#art #pokemon #Story Chapter #i lost count #SubwayBossEmmet #TeamCosmicGalatic #TeamGalaticFaction #won’t survive long #AgentLooker #ChampionLucas #SpritheMesprite #blood #someblood #Torture

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hooman4ever · 2 years

Text

!SFW! ‘Drifting Away’ Bo Sinclair x Male Reader

TW: Contains Hallucinations and Derealization

Contains: Male Reader, Hallucinations, Derealization, Fucky Wucky Brain Time, Comfort, Soft Bo, Maybe Ooc but Idgaf, Lightly Edited

What was happening?

You felt like you were floating– almost like you were slowly drifting away.

What were you drifting from? The sheets below you were a pale blue, the color seemed so strange. So surreal was the color as it ran under your palm, the textures of the sheet were off, not quite wrong but not quite right. Running your fingers along the seams you felt your breathing pick up, a dull thrumming in the back of your skull.

This was wrong– something– everything was wrong–

You were drifting away from reality–

Hands shook as you gripped the sheet below you, knuckles turning white as you tried to ground yourself. Your efforts were in vain however as you only further drifted, your surroundings morphing in your mind and twisting into something strange and fake that had your breathing quickening. Looking through muddled eyes you tried desperately to find something to latch onto to keep you from fading. Your hands reach out, fingertips brushing a nearby blanket before seeping through as if you had tried to grab a ghost. Desperate you had tried again and again fingers grasping at anything you could see only to fall through.

Tears were warm and salty as they flowed from your wide doe eyes wetting your face as they fell before dripping from your chin.

Faded black shapes morph behind your eyes projecting onto the walls surrounding, caging, you in a white toothy smile morphing and taking shape on the shadow faces. Wide eyes of white staring you down from where you shook. Your legs refused to move, eyes never straying from the creature, all you could do was continue gripping the blankets that were supposed to be below you hoping for everything to go away.

Pressure on your shoulder made you jerk a gasp pulled from your mouth. Even as the bed beside you shifted you couldn’t tear your eyes from the pale ones pulling you further into the foggy hazy threatening to swallow your consciousness.

“[Y/n],”

Warmth surrounded your hands. The heat resting on the back of your hands felt right as did the arms pulling you back against a firm chest. “It’s alright, honeydew,” the words spoken were gentle and familiar. “Ya can let go of that blanket now, I got ya.”

True to his word. The man behind you took your hands in his as soon as the blanket was released from your strained grasp. He cradled your hands gently treating them as if they would shatter at the slightest pressure. “Tha’s a good boy," he praised "Now I need ya to look at me, baby.” your breath hitched at the mere thought of breaking contact with the thing in front of you, it’s pure white teeth smiling threateningly at you.

“No,” you croaked out, “It’s going to–

“I know,” he cut you off, one of his hands coming to your face. “It’ll be alright. Just trust me,” his fingers gripping your chin before slowly turning your face upward. “See?” he asked, looking down at you. His features were fuzzy and fake as you looked at him. “Focus on me now,”

Stubble brushed your fingertips as he guided your hand along his jawline. “What’s my name, darlin’?” he asked, his eyes focused on your face in intense worry at the far-off look in your eyes. After a lengthy pause, your scattered mind piecing together your jumbled mind you answered. “Bo,” you breathed out, his features slowly becoming more and more real and relaxed as you answered each of his questions until the low buzzing gripping your mind had faded back into nothing. Leaving you to be held tightly in Bo’s arms, his face smiling down at you warmly.

#bo sinclair #bo sinclair x reader #bo sinclair x y/n #bo sinclair x male reader #bo sinclair x male #bo sinclair x #bo sinclair x male y/n #bo sinclair x male s/o #bo sinclair x s/o #house of wax #house of wack #comfort #hallucinations #derealisation

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phoenix-manga · 2 years

Text

Don't Mess with Fairy Floss

Summary: Epel was tasked to look after Posie, which was fairly easy since the kid was quiet and well-behaved. But that doesn't mean the teen boys who are in puberty won't cut them some slack if they so much as bump shoulders in the hallway.

[Story Under the Cut]

A pitter patter of little feet can be heard through the halls of Pomefiore as Posie walked around the halls of the elegant dorm with the brown folder that probably contains documents that was supposed to go to the Pomefiore dorm leader.

The papers wouldn’t have needed to be delivered personally but Crowley was too “busy” to get it done and once again the little assistant had to make sure they get delivered. Divus would’ve skinned Crowley if it weren’t for Posie insisting that she wants to do it herself. Bless her little heart.

Divus can’t say no to her Baby-Doll Eyes, so Crowley get to live another day free from the professor’s wrath… unfortunately.

So, here she is now, walking down the halls with Mr. Sweets closely floating alongside her with an alert expression. The dorm students watch her with a small smile on their faces, they are all used to seeing the toddler coming over to their dorm. Who wouldn’t? She was quite adorable and the floating monster just made her look even cuter.

“The little fairy is here again!”

“I already knew she was here when the scent of cotton candy wafted into the hallway”

By now, Posie already memorized where Vil’s room was, she feels like a big girl for not having to ask around for directions anymore.

Vil was currently going through his magicam with Rook chatting to him about his day when a knock on the door got their attention.

“Yes? Come in”

Vil said nonchalant thinking it was a student. He had students come to his room often for advice so this was nothing new to him.

But the person seemed to struggle to open the large door from their side, Vil and Rook look at the door slowly opening with confused expressions. But when they caught sight of the floating white fur of Mr. Sweets, they now know that it’s Posie.

Rook quickly opened the door for her and Posie panted from using her strength to get the door to open to let the toddler and her Pokémon in.

“Why if it isn’t the Petite fée and Fil de fée~!”

Though Rook made motions to try and pet Swirlix, the Pokémon quickly dodged his hand and growls at him threateningly, yet the hunter doesn’t seem bothered by the aggressive display.

“Posie, what brings you and your little fairy here?”

Vil said as he walks over to Posie who was trying to catch her breath.

“Vil-nii, Mr. Crowley forgot to give you this again so I brought it over for you!”

“Swir!”

Posie eagerly showed him the brown folder with a bright look on her face, Vil chuckles and takes the folder while giving her head pats.

“Oh you are most helpful, Posie. I worry that Crowley would leave a lot of responsibility on you though… you’re still young”

Though the dorm leader seemed like he was smiling, internally he was quite disappointed with Crowley letting a child do his work.

“Petite fée is very hardworking~!”

Rook picks up Posie in his arms, ignoring the way Mr. Sweets tensed up when he picked up his trainer.

“Swirlix!!! Swir…”

“Is it not too tiring always carrying a burden meant for the headmaster, Petite fée?”

Rook asked the child who looked at him confused, then the next thing she said would be engraved into their minds.

“I don’t mind at all! Mom told me to help out the elderly!”

…

Vil nearly dropped his phone when she said that.

“C-come again?”

“Mr. Crowley needs help because he’s old, right? And he’s got an old man’s voice so he must be old!”

Posie continued her explanation with such a polite tone that just added to the hilarity of what she just said.

Even Mr. Sweets was snickering from the back.

Vil covered his mouth and Rook was fighting to keep his face composed. If Crowley heard that, it will surely damage his pride but it’s not like the headmaster can do anything about what children think, they are innocent after all.

“You have such a big heart, Petite fée… pfft! There is some milk tea if you want some, you must be tired from all that walking!”

“Oh, I can’t stay Rook-nii! I just came to deliver the folder for now, maybe next time!”

Posie get off Rook’s hold and was about to struggle to open the door when Vil stopped her.

“Rook and I are unfortunately busy to walk you back to Ramshackle… However, we can’t just let you go without someone escorting you, I’ll have to call in Epel…”

Vil, took his phone and sent a text message to the first year.

Usually, the stubborn boy wouldn’t do as he asked but since he has a soft spot for Posie, Vil decides to take advantage of that to get Epel to follow his rules. Not a moment later, Epel came knocking on the door.

“You needed me for something, Vil?”

“Ah, yes! Posie just needed someone to walk her back to Ramshackle, me and Rook can’t do it right now so I’m leaving this to you, Epel”

Without giving the boy a chance to protest, Rook placed Posie down and gently nudged them out of the room, but before the door was closed, Rook handed some butterscotch caramel to Posie who eagerly received them.

Posie tends to get candy as a reward for helping out from her perspective but everyone else just did it as a means to spoil her, who wouldn’t when she was so adorable!

As soon as the two can be heard walking away, Rook collapsed onto Vil’s vanity clutching his chest as he was wheezing. Careful not to knock off any of the make-up and perfume.

“Truly, ahahah- the Petite fée has quite a way with words, ahahah~!”

The hunter was unable to stop laughing from Posie’s description of Crowley, Vil was fairing much better than Rook who was nearly on the floor. Imagining an image of Crowley who may be an old man under that vintage mask of his was amusing.

“Describing Crowley as an old man, if he heard this from Posie then I’m sure Professor Crewel won’t let him live it down. I might just be tempted to send him what Posie said… you know what? I think I WILL send it to him”

Vil quickly tapped away on his phone.

“I still haven’t forgotten how that crow let the child do his work, again! He could use a bit of embarrassment to whip him into shape”

Meanwhile, Epel carried Posie as they walked through the main campus building. Mr. Sweets was visibly more relaxed since he trusted Epel more than Rook. Epel made small talk with Posie to keep her from getting bored on the way back.

However, he failed to pay attention to where he was walking and bumped into a Savanaclaw student who clearly did not like being disrupted even though the collision was barely noticeable due to Epel’s short height compared the other’s large body.

Normally, seeing a toddler would get them to hold back their anger but being a beastman who is going through phases of puberty tends to make their patience nonexistent.

“Oi! Watch where you’re going, prissy boy!”

The student growled, baring his fangs and folded back leopard ears. Epel wanted to cuss him out and then kick him where the sun doesn’t shine but he can’t exactly do that when he’s carrying Posie.

Also, Vil would definitely know he acted un-elegantly again and Epel certainly doesn’t want another lecture!

Mr. Sweets took notice of the tense atmosphere and floats in front of the two while growling at the big student, Posie gripped onto Epel’s blazer.

“Y-yelling isn’t nice!”

Posie said bravely despite her trembling lips.

“Hah?! The hell you trying to lecture me brat!”

“Swir?! Swirlix…”

Mr. Sweets puffed up angrily and was glaring at the student who, unfortunately, didn’t notice that he was about to get himself into a beating.

“Oi! Go easy on her, she’s just a kid you jer- I mean… yelling at a child is unbecoming of a gentleman!”

Epel corrected himself for the sake of Posie who was already close to tears. Epel holds onto her tightly in case things were about to get physical, he would most likely shield her if the student goes for a hit.

“Don’t go lecturing me you pompous brat- ack!”

The leopard beastman cracked his knuckles and was about to lunge for Epel when something white enveloped his vision.

“Swirlix! Swir!”

“Acck! Oww!”

He didn’t even get an inch closer to the two when Mr. Sweets immediately flew to the beastman’s face and began to Play Rough the poor, unfortunate student.

There was a cartoonish cloud blocking their view with all sorts of symbols and exclamation points popping out. Epel may not see what was going on but he can hear how much the student was suffering from the desperate grunts of pain.

Then for a few seconds, Epel and Posie saw the head of the student who was trying to escape but Mr. Sweets pinned him back down by pulling on his ear. He disappeared once again into the cloud getting more bruises.

After Swirlix was done, the student was tossed out of their way with Psychic. The beastman flinched when Mr. Sweets growled at him to leave and he fled with his tail between his legs.

Posie got off Epel’s arms and ran to Mr. Sweets, his angry expression immediately changes to that of a puppy as the Pokémon snuggled into the toddler’s arms.

“Mr. Sweets! Are you okay?!”

“Swirlix~!”

“Posie, I think your… cotton candy monster is fine… the other guy though, I think he’s had it worse”

Epel still can’t get used to seeing the supposed cute cotton candy beat up someone five times his own size. He can’t decide whether to feel jealous that Posie has these cool monsters or impressed that she has these cool monsters. He was rbought out from his thoughts when Posie tugged at his sleeve.

“Epel-nii, can you hold Mr. Sweets? I think he’s tired”

“Huh? A-all right…”

“Swirlix~!”

Posie holds out the obviously NOT tired Swirlix towards the first year, Epel can clearly see the smug look of content on the Pokémon’s face. But he did as he was asked because he knows he won’t get Play Roughed as long as he doesn’t do anything to make Posie upset.

The feeling of the soft and slightly sticky fur of the creature was still odd to Epel no matter how many times he’s carried him. But it doesn’t mean that he disliked the texture though, it felt like a really squishy stress toy.

The walk back was way more peaceful now and Mr. Sweets snoozes contently in the boy’s arms as he conversed with the young trainer.

END

#pokemon #twisted wonderland #pokemon x twisted wonderland #twst x pokemon #epel felmier #fanfiction #preschool trainer au #swirlix #vil schoenheit #rook hunt

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light-yaers · 3 years

Text

Fools in the Darkness: Chapter One

Darkling x Reader

Warnings: Death, violence, drugs (Parem), NSFW and sexual content. This content is explicit and 18+ at some points.

A/N: I caved. I am a wildly stupid individual who has no control over her actions. I know I might come to regret posting this so fast and thus forcing myself into my third ongoing x reader fic, but I also just generally don’t care. I’m still working on No Saints and Sweet Esacpe, just as a slower pace due to my mental health, but this baby here floated out of me like melted butter. I’ll be alternating between uploading this fic and my currently ongoing others! I just had to get this shit out of my system about Shadow and Bone, fr.

Fic Masterpost

Word Count - 3.4k

Chapter One

Ketterdam covered up your secrets perfectly. It’d only been a matter of weeks since you’d fled there, after travelling the exhausting journey across East Ravka until the Fold had stood before you; brooding, dangerous, a death-wish just to look at, let alone enter it.

Maybe you had to thank him for one thing, General Kirigan, because without him—

You never would have crossed the Fold on your own.

Maybe Ketterdam was made for a person such as yourself. Dark, danger around every corner, full to the brim with power-hungry men and women trapped behind silks. You’d never warmed to anyone yet, but that wasn’t a surprise—it was easy to hate people in the Barrel, but even easier to take their kruge and send them sailing upon the True Sea without another glance.

Kerch was a merchant port, stuffed with expensive clubs and those with no money troubles, armed and ready to open their pockets if they so wished. There were two sides of the docks—Fifth Harbour; the lavishly bright sector for the rich and wealthy—and the Barrel; a breeding ground for crime, killings and losing all of your kruge in one night.

You’d made acquaintances with the Barrel rats from the very beginning, hearing stories about the destruction they caused. You’d much rather not be on the side of the wealth, but the side of fear.

“I found her wandering the harbour, Kaz,” A petite lady in dark clothes spoke to her boss. She’d dragged you from the bustling harbour, flying you through the dark streets of Ketterdam. You tried to hear her footsteps across the cobblestones, but she left no footprints, like a Wraith in the night.

Kaz approached his desk then, stepping into the small lamp light of his office in the Slat. Kaz Brekker was a man that no one wanted to cross. With his clenched jaw and unforgiving stares, the Bastard of the Barrel was cut-throat in every sense of the description.

“She’s a rat, Inej. Not our responsibility—,”

“Do you see the clothes she’s wearing?” Inej cut over Kaz, stepping towards him abruptly. He stayed in place, looking at his Wraith in the eyes, unwaveringly. He regarded her for a moment, taking all of her in, before turning back to you.

His eyes skimmed you up and down, traversing the darkened and muddied fabrics on your body.

“A Kefta,” He whispered it, his eyes widening. “It doesn’t look like the usual Second Army attire,” He added. You perked up, trying to keep your expression as blunt as possible. After your journey, it wasn’t hard not to show anything—you’d been forced to endure a quiet and agonising journey for a month, while trying to stay in the shadows at the same time.

“Because it’s not,” You spoke up, for the first time since entering Brekker’s office. Kaz turned his attention to your face, stepping forward menacingly. His crow-headed cane slammed the wooden floorboards threateningly, but you weren’t scared—

You’d crossed the fucking Fold on your own. Nothing scared you anymore.

“Who are you?” He questioned, trying to keep his voice steady. Men like Kaz tried not to show off what they felt either, but the curiosity in his tone was undeniable. You cleared your throat.

“How much time have you got?”

Fjerda, 1 Year Ago

It was a risk to take, that was for sure. But choosing whether to go through the Fold or around it was a no brainer. Evidently, it had paid off so far, as you and your sister travelled through the barren coldness of Fjerda, headed for the Ravkan border.

“How much farther?” Your sister chided. She was older than you by a year, but on this mission, you’d taken charge. You shuffled into your pack, pulling out a tattered map and a compass. You set the point to North, calculating the miles you had left to trudge to safety.

Your sister wasn’t Grisha, no—you were. A Squaller; untrained, unenthusiastic about your power and utterly afraid of the Druskelle. But you’d had no choice in getting you and your sister safely around the Fold. There was no other way to go from where you’d first found asylum in Novyi Zem; going through Fjerda was the safest route to the Ravkan army.

You smiled at the map. “Five miles. Then we’ll be in Ravka,” An exhausted but relief filled scoff fell from your lips. You locked eyes with your sister, before the two of you embraced tightly. “We’ll be safe soon,” You whispered in her ear, enjoying the small warmth you got from her bare cheek pressing against your jaw.

“You’ll be safe soon,” She replied, bringing a hand to rest on the back of your neck. She pulled away then, as the tears began to well in her crystalline eyes. “You put yourself in this danger to keep me safe. I’m the older sister—I should be keeping you safe,”

“It was this, or through the Fold,” You spoke, furrowing your brows at her. “I’d rather take on twenty druskelle than step foot in that heaping mound of darkness,” Laughter trickled from both sisters, floating over the snow-covered trees and giving you hope.

You both continued forward tirelessly, mercilessly, trudging through inches of untouched snow and praying to whichever god out there who was listening. You prayed for your sister’s safety, for a safe life for her in the First Army. You prayed that you could stay with her—

A Squaller you were, yes, but over your dead body would you be taken to the Little Palace. You knew that’s where Grisha were trained for the King, you knew it was different. Your abilities didn’t define you; Saints, you barely even used them.

They were unpredictable. And you were scared of hurting those around you without meaning to. Ever since an incident when you were younger, you’d almost been afraid of your own power. You kept it hidden from those who you didn’t know closely.

Those who knew you were Grisha in Novyi Zem called you zowa—blessed, in Zemeni. It also meant Grisha, so you didn’t know if they were simply calling you what you were, or if they were commenting upon how strong your Squaller abilities were.

You’d never even met another Sqauller. You had nothing to compare yourself off of.

With a mile until you hit the Ravkan border, you stopped abruptly. Plumes of smoke rose high above the skies, coming from somewhere further on before you. You stuck your hand out, halting your sister from walking any further.

You were silent, listening for any signs of breakings twigs, compacted snow, or other indications of druskelle being near.

“Saints, you look like a fentomen,” Your sister scoffed beside you.

“Quiet,” You hit back with.

“What is it?” She spoke again, quieter this time, but not by much.

“Quiet,” You hissed.

You both waited another few minutes, silently standing like statues in the garden of the Grand Palace. You let out shaky breaths as you eventually straightened yourself once more, clutching onto your sister’s forearm for dear life.

“It’s okay. We just need to be wary,” You whispered. She nodded in response.

You both set off once more through countless trees and untouched snow. But you didn’t get far—until two druskelle spotted you. Neither of you could speak Fjerdan, and you were a fucking Grisha. This couldn’t have been any worse, when you were so close to being free.

“Hje marden,” One of them spoke. They were both tall, with broad shoulders and the white hair and blue eyes of Fjerda. Neither had beards—they were in training to being full druskelle. The trainees were always worse than their commanders, you thought. They would do anything to prove themselves to their superiors.

You tried not to shake as they circled you and your sister.

“I’m sorry, we don’t speak Fjerdan,” You said honestly. The druskelle immediately changed. Their hands rested upon their guns, ready to fire if need be. You raised your hands to the sky as your expression dropped. “Please! Please, we are just travellers—uh—we are perjenger—,”

“Perjenger? Travellers? To where?” The second druskelle spat.

You glanced at your sister quickly, knowing that if you answered Ravka, you’d both be shot immediately. Ravka was at war with Fjerda—Grisha were at war with Druskelle.

“Kerch,” You said strongly. “We have to go through Ravka and Shu Han. We can’t cross the Fold,”

For a moment, you thought it had worked. The druskelle looked at each other gruffly, muttering some words in Fjerdan. You clutched onto your sister’s arm tightly, not planning on letting her go now until you’d both crossed the border.

“Wait here,” One of the men said, as he began trudging back through the snow. He disappeared in the white landscape, leaving you with one druskelle.

You stayed quiet, feeling the warmth of your sister next to you. You glanced at her then, traversing your gaze over her side profile. Her nose, which was the same as yours; her eyes, brighter and more beautiful than your own, mimicking your mother; her hair, lighter and softer than yours. She was shorter than you, smaller than you, getting a lot of genetics from your mother, while you took from your father greatly. His height, his broad shoulders, his darker hair.

But she was your only family left, your only love and focus and everything.

And you were less than a mile from getting her to safety. You were less than a mile from being free of this Saint forsaken country, full of killers and fascists and men who only cared about power.

It was one druskelle against a Squaller. One against one. You could do that. You could beat him.

That’s what made you push your sister back, falling into the snow slowly as you brought your hands together. The druskelle yelled as he saw your movements, trying to aim his gun at you between your eyes, but it was too late—

In a flash, you summoned a storm that whipped him off of his feet. It circled him, gliding him backwards through the trees as you kept pushing and pushing, ignoring the raging winds as they whipped your hair from your face and agitated the snow on the trees.

“Come on!” You yelled behind you, as your sister scrambled up from the floor to stand beside you. She held your arm sturdily, watching fearfully as the druskelle struggled against the rapid winds that you wielded.

You thought that was it—you could both run with the time you’d bought—but that’s when the entire druskelle camp rocketed through the tree line. They yelled and boomed as they came to aid their brother, pushing back against the furious winds you were trying desperately to wield.

“Drüsje!” The commander yelled, storming through the group as he set up the largest of their guns—a machine gun, aimed and ready fire. You gasped, and for a second the winds wavered—they wavered long enough for the machine gun round to penetrate the small snow snuffed tornado that you’d created—

Until those bullets trickled over the blanketed ground, moving steadily closer and closer—

Until one landed straight through the heart of your sister.

All you remembered was that time slowed, then, as you saw the bullet exit her shoulder blade. She fell to the floor, unclasping her hands from your forearm and collapsing into a shocked heap on the floor. You remembered the way her blood dyed the snow. You remembered the way her eyes stayed open—

And then you remembered screaming.

It was a blur, as you tensed all of your limbs to the point where they yelled beneath your skin. You mustered all of your strength into this one storm; one that was merciless and unforgiving, circling all the druskelle in the clearing around you. You knew that soon all of the air would fade from within the eye of the storm that whipped devilishly around them.

You knew that soon they’d all begin to run out of oxygen and pass out, or better yet—maybe their hearts would stop. Cease to beat, drained of any energy to fire more rounds of bullets or kill Grisha for no fucking reason.

The storm was the largest you’d ever summoned, engulfing the entire druskelle camp and uprooting trees from their homes in the cold, hard Fjerdan ground. You saw them get sucked into your whirlwind, flying high, high, high until they eventually slipped out of the storms’ gusts; then they fell back down to earth, landing aggressively and dangerously on the ground below and being spat out at any random location.

You didn’t stop the storm, not even when you saw a tree fall atop a druskelle, crushing him where he’d stood moments before. The commander was the last one standing, rising above his suffocating men to look at you, face on, menacingly.

“Drüsje like you deserve to lose that which you love,” He boomed, using his remaining energy to cast you to Hell.

You wasted no time when you adjusted your stance, focusing the brunt force of the storm onto him—you decreased the eye of the storm until it flowed over him, and only him, grunting all of your strength into the circling winds that now surrounded him utterly and completely.

You collapsed at the same time that the commander did, falling into inches of snow and crawling exhaustedly to your sister. She was motionless, cold, her lips turning blue by the second as her blood continued to flow on Fjerdan soil. Dead. Gone.

Tears cascaded down your cheeks without any indication of stopping, but you couldn’t sob. It was impossible when you were already holding your breath, too afraid that if you were to breathe, only screams would pour from your coarse lungs.

The clearing was deserted, now, as druskelle bodies laid motionless on the snow-covered ground, their camp up ahead completely destroyed. Broken branches, twigs, tree trunks were dotted around, acting as just another indication of the destruction that you were truly capable of. Saints, you wanted to know if you were a normal Grisha, a normal Squaller, since those old women on Novyi Zem had looked at you like a weapon from the first day you could summon and control hurricanes and tornados at will.

Your fingers found your sister’s forehead then, swiping the hair off of her face. You cupped her cheek, laying your other hand upon her stomach. “Vaarwell,” You whispered shakily. “I’m sorry—I’m so sorry—,”

“Who’s there?” A voice spoke up from just beyond the clearing. You got up from the floor immediately, feeling a strange sense of power surrounding you. You waited silently, until First Army soldiers made their way to the clearing. A few stopped and checked the pulses of the druskelle upon the floor, before continuing forward until you were finally spotted.

A young man approached you slowly, holding his gun tightly, draped against his shoulder. “Was this... you?” He asked, looking you in the eye. His gaze dropped to the ground by your feet, seeing the blood-stained snow where your sister lay dead, before he looked back up to you.

He was joined by the rest of his crew. They slowly approached you, almost as if they were trapping you within a circle of their bodies. You stepped back once then, keeping your chin high and proud. The young man at the front was trying everything to keep you calm, you could see it in his eyes, but what he didn’t know was that you were seething—

And nothing would stop that.

Without your sister, you’d be taken to the Little Palace. Without knowing she was safe in the First Army, nothing would get you through the rest of your life—

You were dead. Inside and out. Nothing would change that.

Without a word, you brought your hands together, far too quickly for any of the soldiers to raise their weapons in defence. You ignored their begs and pleads as you circled them within in your storm, slowly suffocating the air out of their lungs and seeing the way their eyes bulged uncomfortably in their skulls.

“General!” The young man shouted, clutching at his throat as he tried desperately to suck air into his lungs. His voice echoed throughout the clearing, travelling through the trees slowly, until an eery type of silence settled into the air around you.

That’s when he arrived—his horse just as black at the Kefta on his frame, the stubble on his chin and the irises of his eyes. He dismounted, ignoring the cries from the soldiers within your raging storm as he began to approach you, step by step by step, crunching through the snow broodingly.

You knew who this man was; General Kirigan of the Second Army.

The Darkling.

He got ever closer, walking around the circular storm. The gap was beginning to bridge, and the more it did, the more you faltered. He took one more step, and you lost it.

“Stop!” You yelled. “Don’t come any closer, Darkling,” He stopped on command, keeping his arms by his sides, but the corners of his mouth upturned into a smile. “You find me amusing?” You spat.

“By the looks of this,” He gestured to the druskelle. “You were trying to get to Ravka. We’re here to help, yet you’re trying to suffocate my men,” You ignored his words, but you found your energy waning slightly—or maybe your heart was finally giving in. It didn’t really want to hurt anyone else, didn’t want to cause more damage than was already on your hands. “You’re a Squaller?” Kirigan asked, and that surprised you.

“Isn’t this how all Squaller’s are?” You asked in reply. Kirigin raised a brow at you.

“Not usually,” He said honestly. “You’ve never met another Grisha before?”

“I know what you’re doing,” You furrowed your brows at him. “You’re trying to distract me, to make me let my guard down and go with you willingly. I’d rather die than work for the King at the Little Palace,” Your breaths were getting more laborious the longer you held on to the storm. You were losing energy rapidly.

“Interesting,” The Darkling muttered.

There were a few moments then, where he was simply staring at you. Regarding you, analysing you, or perhaps— waiting for you to lose all of your energy. You were in a somewhat sticky situation, losing a grasp on your power with every passing second and feeling the intense gaze of Kirigan to your left.

“Let go,” He spoke softly. “I can see you’re tired, you don’t truly want to kill these men,”

“You don’t know anything about me,” You forced your eyelids to stay open as a wave of exhaustion flowed through you.

“And you know me?” He chided. You moved your gaze to him then, as your limbs finally lost momentum. Your hands dropped to your sides, your storm dissipating into the cold air at the Fjerdan border. Soldiers sucked in breaths noisily, gaining back their vision.

You stumbled back once, forcing yourself to stay standing despite the immense urge to pass the fuck out. Kirigan stayed still the entire time, a softness on his jaw that you hadn’t been expecting.

“Everyone knows you,” You mumbled. “I never wanted to meet you, though,”

Your heart jolted then, when the General let out a scoff. You forced yourself to move. Step by step through disturbed snow, until you were back where your sister lay on the floor. You collapsed to your knees unwillingly, as your body threatened to blackout at any moment.

You laid a shaky hand on her collarbone, curling your fingers up to her jaw. Kirigan moved slowly in your peripheral, turning towards you but staying at the distance he’d always been.

“Don’t take me to Os Alta,” You muttered. “Please, don’t take me,” You looked up at the General with pleading eyes.

“Why?” Kirigan whispered with furrowed brows, as if he was trying to work out why on earth you didn’t want a life within the royal Ravkan walls, living in luxury, fighting with other Grisha and honing your power.

Your vision began to blur then, as black spots dotted the white snow that surrounded you.

You never answered the General, your body gave up before you could—

And all you saw was black.

Tag list of those who were interested from my earlier post (tell me if you want off/on the list): @notawritergettingtherethough @rbg1993 @mayallyourbaconburn @luminous-99

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bitsandbobsofwriting · 3 years

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Magic is legal, Arthur knows The Truth and Merlin is... shit at explaining things:

Arthur demands a trip to visit the Druids, who are far more qualified than Merlin, so they can explain this whole... destiny thing.

I’ve written a lot of angst and Hurt!Merlin recently, so I just wanted to write something short and sweet and fluffy :)

SO.

Magic has been legalised, Merlin is Court Sorcerer, all the knights are alive and happy, Morgana is good, and the only thing Arthur has to worry about right now is what the hell to do about the rapidly growing crush he has on his BestFriend™.

After the dust had settled, Merlin had tried to sit Arthur down and tell him the whole story; all about Emrys, and the prophecies, and destiny. The King already knew about Merlin’s magic, and roughly how powerful he is, but that’s it.

But Merlin went so long barely mentioning it at all, not even to Gaius or Morgana or Lancelot, that he’s still not entirely sure what to say. Years of hiding and lying and trying desperately not to think about it, mean his brain now blanks when he tries to explain it.

After far too long of Arthur looking on confusedly whilst Merlin rambled on about dragons and coins and mental links and names, The Court Sorcerer gave up, and decided to just not bother.

Arthur, of course, decided that giving up was stupid, and made the executive decision that they would just go to the Druids, and someone who actual knew what they were talking about could explain it thoroughly. Maybe even allow Arthur to read the original prophecies.

Plus, it turned out that Initiating a Golden Age took quite a lot of work, so neither of them had had a chance to leave the city for weeks. They could do with the fresh air. And if Arthur saw it as a good chance to be properly alone with Merlin for more than half a candle mark? No one else needed to know, least of all Merlin.

It was a pleasant journey through the woods. The silences comfortable, and the conversations easy and filled with smiles.

Magic had only been legalised for about a fortnight, and after over twenty years of fear, magic users were still understandably cautious, meaning the closest Druid camp was still a two days ride away.

But that wasn’t a problem. With Merlin now able to use his magic openly, and therefor more able to defend his King, he found he was far less anxious about the trip outside the city than he would’ve been before. And if his good mood bled into the environment around them? Well... it was spring... surely no one would notice the extra flowers and abundance of butterflies?

(Arthur definitely noticed. But Merlin was still... wary, of performing sorcery openly, in fear of scaring the people who had been sucked in by two decades of propaganda and fear-mongering. Meaning Arthur sure as shit wasn’t going to point it out, in case Merlin stopped.)

It was around noon, and the sun was shining down on them when Merlin pulled his horse to a stop. He dismounts effortlessly, and hands a confused Arthur his reins. At Arthur’s raised eyebrow, Merlin sighs and speaks quietly:

“The camp is about two minutes further on but... the change in the law was only recent, and...-”

He bites his lip and looks away, worrying Arthur slightly, before continuing:

“-well, chainmail and red capes still make them a little nervous. I’ve already warned their leader that we’re coming-”

He taps his temple briefly:

“-but I should go ahead and explain properly.”

Arthur nods in understanding, and gives Merlin a comforting smile:

“I completely understand, Merlin. How long do you want me to wait, or will you come back to get me?”

Merlin returns his smile, before saying:

“Just wait ten minutes then follow me, straight down the path. Bring the horses, there’ll be somewhere to tie them there. You shouldn’t run into any trouble this close to a camp, but you do have a track-record so-”

Merlin laughs at Arthur’s indignant expression, but continues before he can interrupt him:

“-if you do, just yell. We won’t be too far away, we’ll hear you.”

Arthur rolls his eyes fondly and shoos Merlin away. The Warlock laughs as he turns and continues down the path on foot. Just before he disappears behind a large bush, he turns around again, a slightly concerned expression on his face:

“I might look a bit... different? But don’t mention it, they’re quite fond of me... uh... dressing the part.”

Arthur huffs out a laugh before saying:

“I’m sure I won’t forget what you look like in ten minutes, Merlin. Go.”

Merlin hums thoughtfully, and turns back around, disappearing into the trees and leaving Arthur to his thoughts.

After a few moments, he removes his cloak, tucking it into a saddlebag. He also, after only a little hesitation, removes his sword, strapping it to his saddle. It was still visible and easily within reach, but not so threateningly on display at his hip.

He was entering these people’s home, after personally wielding the sharp edge of their persecution for almost a decade; the least he could do was make them as comfortable as possible.

He hadn’t mentioned it to anyone, not even Merlin, but he had a feeling that this meet was going to end up being about more than the prophecies. Peace had been harboured, magic had been legalised, but like Merlin had pointed out, things were still a little tense. This meeting was a way to show the Druids that Arthur meant it, that his whole heart was behind this change. The he was not his father.

Arthur was a little nervous (not that he’d ever admit that), this was important. Not just to him and the kingdom, but to Merlin personally. He had to get this right. One of the only things that Arthur had managed to get out of Merlin, to do with the whole destiny thing, was that it was finished. It was done.

If Arthur messes this up, not only will it ruin the peace they had been working so hard for... then Merlin might leave. He has no reason to stay after-all, he’s done his job. So Arthur has to get this right, has to impress everyone, now more than ever, because if he fails and the Druids all leave Camelot, then Merlin would leave with them.

And that thought was... unbearable.

He counts down the minutes, getting more and more tense. He tried to distract himself by thinking about what Merlin had said, “dressing the part” what does that even mean?

But it doesn’t work. Soon enough his brain is throwing thought after paranoid thought at him, about all the possible ways Merlin could tell Arthur he hated him, and leave forever and ever.

Arthur rubbed his eyes harshly, muttering to himself about how he really should’ve accepted the “relaxing tea” Gaius had offered him before they left. Other than Merlin, the old physician is the only one who ever seems to know what he needs in the moment, Arthur should definitely learn to listen to him more.

He finally reaches zero in his mental countdown, and sighs before standing from where he’d sat on a fallen log. He’d allowed the horses to wander a bit but they were trained to stay close by, so he has no problem gathering their reins again and leading them slowly down the path Merlin had followed.

All Druid camps were different. Some moved around constantly, some stayed fairly still. Some were huge, acres large with hundreds of people, others were small, only ten people or so. Some were occupied by mostly the sick and elderly, others were full of the young and adventurous, and others were family orientated.

And of course it was rare, according to Gaius, that someone would stay in the same camp their whole life. The Druids were a nomadic people, always shifting, drifting, wandering. Following a constantly tugging thread in their hearts, going where nature beckoned them.

According to Merlin, this specific camp was pretty small (around twenty adults) but it was also a fairly familial group, meaning lots of children. And if that didn’t make Arthur nervous (it definitely did) then nothing would.

Arthur didn’t have much experience with children, and definitely had no concept of how to act around them, especially Druid children.

After about a minute of walking, Arthur could hear loud laughter and quiet conversations floating through the trees. He slowed his pace; trying to appear unthreatening and friendly, or to delay the inevitable, he’s not quite sure.

He finally breaks through the treeline to see that... no one is even looking in his direction.

It was the middle of the day, so the camp was busy, people milling about everywhere, most of the tents open, various jobs getting done throughout the clearing.

But what immediately drew Arthur’s eye, was the source of the laughter.

The King looked across the clearing to see Merlin, in a whole new wardrobe, and a whole new light.

The man had changed from his simple travellers clothes (basically the clothes he’d worn as a manservant, just a bit newer and cleaner.) into a loose, white, lace up shirt (sleeves rolled up, which Arthur absolutely did NOT find himself staring at, thank you very much.) paired with slim black trousers.

But what was most striking, was the deep blue cloak billowing behind him, and the silver crown on his head. It was delicate, as if forged with vines and leaves and feathers, but it was oh so Merlin.

Arthur stayed at the edge of the clearing, glad that no one had noticed him; allowing him to stare in reverence at his best friend.

He was surrounded by young children, all laughing joyously as his eyes glowed golden and he waved his hands around. He needn’t mutter spells as he smiled widely, willing butterflies and bees to manifest in the air around him.

One of the younger children held his arms in the air and made grabbing motions with his hands. Merlin bent over and pulled him up into the air without a moment of hesitation, spinning him around on the spot (much to the kid’s enjoyment, who giggled outrageously), before settling him on his hip.

He used one hand to support the kid’s weight (when did Merlin get so strong??), and used the other to summon flowers around the feet of the rest of the children.

A fond smile spread across Arthur’s face as he saw them run around exuberantly, gathering the flowers in chubby hands to present to parents and siblings and friends.

Arthur laughed softly as he saw Merlin reply enthusiastically to something that the boy on his hip had said, and a second later, the child had a butterfly perched on the end of his nose.

Arthur is broken from his concentration, jumping a foot in the air when a soft hand lands on his shoulder from behind.

He whips his head around, just about managing to stop himself from yelping and reaching for where his sword usually is at his hip.

He calms his breathing as his eyes find the friendly face of a Druid, an amused smile on his face. Arthur returns his smile, a tad shakily, suddenly feeling the nerves again, and nods his head respectfully.

The man keeps his hand on Arthur’s shoulder, but looks towards Merlin in the clearing, before softly saying:

“He’s quite something, your Emrys, isn’t he?”

Arthur gulps, also looking back at Merlin as he replies with a chuckle that was only slightly forced:

“He’s more yours than mine, especially like this, but yes, he is something special.”

The Druid laughs disbelievingly, and Arthur turns to look, a confused expression on his face as he listens to his reply:

“Definitely not. He’s always belonged to you more than he’s belonged to us-”

He stops laughing to look at Arthur, eyes sparkling with friendly mirth as he continues:

“-prophecy or no, he had a... well... a pre-carved place among the Druids, but he still chose to carve his own space by your side. I think that speaks volumes about where he truly belongs, or at least where he wants to belong, don’t you?”

Arthur doesn’t really have a response to that as he stares at the man with barely concealed bafflement, but luckily, before the silence stretches too long, the Druid gestures to the clearing:

“Come. Everyone is excited to meet you, though I warn you, the children in this camp can be rather energetic, as you’ve already seen.”

Arthur gulps and nods, following him into the centre of the camp.

Everyone’s attention is quickly caught by The King’s presence, and someone comes over to wordlessly take the horse’s reins from him.

The adults bow their heads slightly in respect, giving him soft smiles, and the children fidget on the spot, wide grins on their faces as they whisper conspiratorially to each other.

The boy in Merlin’s arms wiggles, and he gets put down. He rushes over to Arthur, grabbing his hand with a toothy grin and dragging him over to Merlin and the other children.

Merlin hides a laugh behind his hand as Arthur’s eyes widen, and his face goes pale. He thought this was going to be meetings and serious discussions and apologies, not playing with children!! What do children even like?! Swords?? Can he talk to them about swords??! Druids are pacifists right? So probably not??

He gets pulled down to crouch, and the children crowd him, all babbling at once, wildly showing him flowers and butterflies.

Merlin laughs at his bewildered fear for a few moments, before he crouches next to Arthur and holds his hands up, saying loudly:

“Alright, alright, you lot. Remember what I said?”

The children still, and a chorus of “Yes Lord Emrys” resounds from the group. With that, they stay silent, but still grin widely and bounce on the spot in excitement.

Arthur gives Merlin a stressed, but grateful smile, before looking back to the children. He takes a deep breath, before smiling at them, and saying:

“My name’s Arthur. Thank you for having me, I appreciate your hospitality.”

Merlin snorts at his overly formal tone, and has to stop himself laughing at the shock and fear on Arthur’s face when one of the younger ones loudly asks:

“What’s hosp-ee-tal-it-ee?”

Arthur furrows his brows, but luckily one of the teenagers steps in, quietly saying:

“It’s when someone comes into your home, and you’re nice to them.”

Arthur smiles and nods, and Merlin chuckles in amusement.

Thankfully (for Arthur) Merlin then stands and announces to the children that it’s lunch time, and to get washed up. They all rush off, and Arthur lets out a breath as he stands.

Merlin holds in yet another laugh, but tilts his head in confusion as Arthur’s gaze is once again drawn to the crown that rests on Merlin’s unruly hair.

Merlin flushes slightly when he realises what Arthur is looking at, looking to the floor and mumbling:

“You have no idea how long I’ve been trying to get them to just call me Merlin, but then they presented me with this a few months ago and I could hardly say no, could I?”

Arthur nods as Merlin looks up again, meeting his gaze. There’s a soft smile on his face, one that Merlin isn’t quite sure what to make of as he quietly replies:

“Hmm. Looks good on you.”

Merlin makes a surprised noise and his eyes go wide, the flush on his cheeks deepening as Arthur laughs gently at him.

Arthur puts his hand on Merlin’s shoulder, his thumb brushing against the skin of his neck in a way that was slightly more than friendly, but Merlin doesn’t pull away, so Arthur leaves his hand there as he looks around the bustling camp.

His smile falls into something more sad, and Merlin frowns at him curiously:

“Arthur? What is it?”

Arthur shakes his head slightly, not looking back at Merlin as he replies, almost whispering:

“Nothing. It’s just, last time I was this far into a Druid camp... I did terrible things. Look at this place, how could I ever have believed that magic was evil? It’s beautiful here.”

Merlin’s frown deepens, but before he can reply, a small hand tugs at Arthur’s sleeve, and the two of them look down suddenly to see one of the boys from before. He wore a confused expression, and whispered, as if he knew this was meant to be a secret conversation:

“What terrible things did you do, Mr King Sir?”

Merlin takes in a quiet gasp and widens his eyes, but before he can tell him off or lie, Arthur squeezes his shoulder, and crouches down in front of the child.

Arthur gives the boy a smile, and takes his hands, quietly saying:

“Well. When I was young, I was taught some things that are wrong, I didn’t question them, and because of that I did some really bad things. I thought I was being a good person, but actually I was being a bad person because I didn’t do my own research, and I didn’t know any better. But then I started learning how to be better, and now I do everything in my power to be an actual good person.-”

Arthur looks up at Merlin with a small smile on his face, before looking back down to the boy, who is hanging on to his every word:

“-Your Emrys is helping me with that. You see, he’s the best person I’ve ever met, and he’s helping me be more like him.”

Arthur resists the urge to look back at Merlin as he feels a firm, but shaky hand on his back, and instead looks at the child as he thinks over Arthur’s words. His face breaks into a grin, and Arthur returns the smile as the boy says:

“He’s the best isn’t he? I wanna be like him when I grow up!”

Arthur ruffles his hair, and replies quietly:

“Yeah kid, me too.”

The boy gives him a toothy grin, before running off once again, and Arthur lets out yet another breath he had been holding before standing up.

Merlin’s hand remains on his shoulder, and Arthur regrets meeting his gaze the moment he turns his head. But he also can’t rip his eyes away from the teary expression of awe and bewildered happiness on his face.

Merlin lets out a gentle laugh at Arthur’s apprehensive face before shaking his head, and looking back at him once again, this time amusement on his face:

“The best person you’ve ever met, huh?”

Arthur rolls his eyes and blushes deeply, pushing Merlin’s hand off his shoulder as he mumbles a flustered:

“Shut up, Merlin. I could hardly tell him the truth, could I?”

Merlin hums thoughtfully and replies with laughter in his voice:

“Hmm. That makes more sense, of course.”

Without waiting for Arthur’s reply, he grabs the King’s wrist and drags him towards a large tent in the corner of the clearing. Inside were two tables, one large, and one smaller and lower, both surrounded by benches.

Merlin directed them to bowls in the corner so they could wash their hands, before they sit at the larger of the two tables. Everyone over the ages of about fourteen joins them, the younger ones going to the smaller table.

Food appears, covering the surface, summoned from the cooking pots outside and the various food stores around the camp. Arthur tries to keep the wonderment off his face, but knows he failed miserably when he hears Merlin chuckle beside him. He punches Merlin’s leg under the table playfully, but that only makes him laugh harder.

He quietens when the man sat opposite Arthur stands:

“Today we have two honoured guests, our Lord Emrys, and the Once and Future King Arthur. We share our home, our food, and our welcome, for as long as they wish to stay. We raise our goblets to you, My Lords.”

At that, he raises his cup in the air, everyone else in the tent following him. Merlin smiles and nods at him, raising his own cup, and Arthur nervously copies his movements, comforted by Merlin’s reassuring hand on his knee.

With that, the Druid sits down, and conversation breaks out around the tent as everyone begins to eat.

Merlin handles most of the discussions, talking to everyone as if they were life long friends. Arthur is grateful for that, he answers any questions sent his way, asking a few polite ones in return, but Druid culture is so different to life in the city and Arthur doesn’t really know what he should be talking about.

Thankfully, the meal passes quickly, and after another announcement from the man Arthur now presumed was the leader here, the crowd dispersed, everything being cleared away with magic.

Not every Druid practiced sorcery, but they were clearly in a magic-heavy camp; Arthur could see it plain as day, everywhere he looked.

Merlin once again took Arthur’s wrist, leading him out into the sun. Usually, Arthur hated being led places, especially by the hand, but he found he didn’t quite mind it today. Whether it was because they were in Merlin’s domain, and Merlin was King here, or because of how nervous he was, or because of some other reason entirely, Arthur wasn’t sure, and frankly, he didn’t want to think too deeply about it.

This time, Merlin led them to another, smaller tent.

It had several comfortable looking chairs around a smallish circular table, which was covered in scrolls and parchments and old-looking books.

A few seconds later, they were joined by the Druid leader; he smiled softly at them and gestured for them to sit at the table. Merlin and Arthur sat next to each other, and the Druid kindly pretended not to notice them shuffling the chairs closer together.

The rest of the afternoon passed in a blur, Arthur having lost his nerves fairly early in the conversation. Maybe that had something to do with the fact that official meetings were his specialty, or maybe it was because Merlin’s hand once again found his knee, but stayed there this time. Who knows.

The Druid had introduced himself, and once more welcomed Arthur to the camp, before launching into explanations of the prophecies and destinies, and everyone’s roles in them.

Merlin knew most if it, and looked especially proud of himself when the Druid described in wonder how Merlin had changed the very fates of the Lady Morgana, Sir Mordred, and Arthur himself.

Arthur was definitely taken aback at that. Whilst Merlin had prattled on, making no sense, about his and Arthur’s destinies, he had never mentioned anyone else, and Arthur becomes increasingly glad he came here to sort it all out.

There were some bits that not even Merlin knew though. He wasn’t aware that the other knights, Guinevere, and Gaius featured in a few of the newer prophecies, and the Druid had an amused smile on his face when he admitted that he’d thought Merlin would have figured that out.

Arthur did laugh at him at that, and Merlin flushed before telling him:

“Shut up, or I’ll tell the others you said I was the best person you’ve ever met, and they’ll never let you live it down.”

Arthur narrows his eyes, and the Druid continues look at them in amusement as they bicker.

The meeting comes to an end just before dark, and Arthur thanks the Druid profusely, for welcoming him, and taking the time to go through everything thoroughly.

Another meal is had in the large tent, but when they leave this time, the clearing has been completely emptied. A large bonfire roars in the middle, and logs surround it, providing seating for everyone.

The evening is full of stories and music and magic, and Arthur once again finds himself wondering just how he thought any of this could be evil.

Even Merlin stands to lead a song. He moves around the clearing with yet another child sat sat on his hip, giggling as Merlin spins her around.

Arthur is surprised to learn that Merlin has a good voice, and stares in wonderment as he leads the melody as if it was what he was born to do. The rest of the Druids clap along, joining in loudly and harmonising and playing instruments in time with the tune.

When the song comes to a close, the crowd burst into cheers as Merlin looks back to Arthur, breathing deeply and cheeks flushed. The Warlock smiles widely as he settles the child back in her mother’s lap before walking back over to his seat, next to Arthur.

Arthur returns his wide grin with a soft smile of his own, and as the music continues around them, Merlin tilts his face in happy confusion:

“Why are you looking at me like that?”

Arthur just shakes his head slightly, smiling slightly wider as he responds without missing a beat:

“You’re beautiful like this. And you have an exceptional voice.”

Merlin flushes in surprise and looks to his lap, quietly muttering:

“I wouldn’t know about that...”

Arthur doesn’t look away, huffing out a laugh before replying:

“I mean it, Merlin. You just look... happy. Like you belong here.-”

He does look away here, staring into the fire with a thoughtful, but slightly mournful look on his face as Merlin peers up at him, curious. Arthur continues, even quieter, before Merlin can question him:

“-You know, I wouldn’t be angry if you wanted to stay. Here, I mean. I know magic is legal in Camelot now, but you belong somewhere like this. I would never begrudge you a home like this Merlin.”

Merlin laughs quietly, and takes Arthur’s hand, holding it in his lap like it’s something precious (it is, at least it is to Merlin). Arthur looks back at him in surprise, but doesn’t pull away as Merlin replies, still smiling:

“Home isn’t a place, Arthur, and the Druids know that better than anyone. Home is... home is wherever the people you love are. You are my people, Arthur, you and the knights and Gwen and Morgana and Gaius. My home is wherever you are. No matter my magic or title or destiny; my home will always be where you are.”

Arthur doesn’t let the tears in his eyes fall, but he does squeeze Merlin’s hand, giving him a tender smile that's returned without hesitation.

With the exchanging of smiles that any onlooker would describe as loving, the conversation comes to an easy close, and they spend the rest of the evening hand in hand, smiling fondly at the antics around them.

It’s late when the festivities come to an end, and Arthur and Merlin are exhausted, struggling to hold back yawns as they’re shown to a tent that had been set up for them.

Their bags had been removed from the horses and left in there, and the floor was covered in various blankets and pillows. There was a small trunk, for them to store anything they wished to unpack, and a few candles were lit, filling the room with a soft golden light and pleasant smells.

Merlin charms the tent to be soundproof so they don’t have to worry about noise (he may be openly able to use magic, but the idiot was still rather clumsy, and prone to accidental bangs and crashes), before removing his crown carefully. His cloak and boots follow shortly, and they all go neatly into the trunk, before he starts organising a spot to sleep.

After a few minutes, he realises that Arthur hasn’t moved from his space by the entrance, and Merlin turns around to look at him questioningly. Arthur’s eyebrows are furrowed, and he looks deep in thought as he stares at the floor, fiddling with the hem of his tunic.

Merlin walks over, concerned, and takes one of Arthur’s hands into his own. Arthur looks up at him suddenly, broken free of his thoughts, and Merlin raises an eyebrow at him as he strokes his thumb across The King’s knuckles:

“What’s wrong, Arthur?”

Arthur looks into Merlin’s eyes searchingly, but seems to find what he’s looking for after only a moment, and smiles. Merlin tilts his head to prompt him, and Arthur takes his other hand, before softly speaking:

“You know, I used to find the idea of falling in love frightening.-”

Merlin takes in a subtle deep breath, but Arthur doesn’t notice as he shakes his head, huffing out a gentle laugh before continuing, looking somewhere over Merlin’s shoulder:

“-The possibility that someone could have that much control over me; that I would willingly give another person dominion over my heart, my soul, my... everything, was terrifying to me. But I find I’m not scared anymore.-”

He looks back at Merlin’s shocked face. Arthur looks an odd mix of disbelieving, and happy beyond words as he continues, confident that what he’s saying is right, for the first time in a long time:

“-Because it’s you, Merlin. It’s always been you. And how could I possibly find falling in love with you anything other than beautiful?”

Merlin gulps, seemingly searching Arthur’s face for any hint of a lie. When he finds nothing but sincerity, he launches himself forward, almost knocking Arthur to the floor.

He wraps his arms around the blonde’s shoulders tightly, burying a hand in his hair, and his face in the crook of his neck. Arthur huffs out a laugh as he wraps his arms around Merlin’s waist, running a soft hand up and down his back.

At Merlin’s muttered:

“I love you, Arthur, more than anything is this world. My magic, my everything, belongs to you.”

Arthur pulls back, smiling. He leans forward pressing his forehead against Merlin’s, and cups his cheek softly with his hand. They stare into the blue of each other’s eyes for a moment, not in any hurry to move the moment along, Arthur running his thumb over Merlin’s cheekbone, and Merlin carding his fingers through Arthur’s hair.

Arthur takes a deep breath, before whispering, so quietly it’s a miracle Merlin hears him:

“Can I kiss you?”

Merlin nods infinitesimally, and the two of them lean forward, meeting in the middle in a soft kiss that could only be described as tender, and full of love.

If the stars shine brighter, and the wind blows warmer, and the animals of the dark seem happier that night... well... it was spring... surely no one would notice (Arthur definitely noticed, but he sure as shit wasn’t going to point it out, in case Merlin stopped).

THE END!!

This is the first one I’ve written in aaaaages that didn’t involve a dizzy/exhausted/sick Merlin so... yay me?

I just really wanted to write something fluffy, where there were no high stakes. No huge battles, or angsty confessions or anything like that, just a soft love story.

I genuinely got no clue what I’ll write next. I do have a few drafts and ideas floating around, but let me know if you’re after anything specific, I live to please :)

Like always, you wanna write this up properly with paragraphs and fleshed out stuff, go for it, credit and tag me :)

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miyagihawk · 3 years

Text

why’d you only call me when you’re high? pt. 2 | eli “hawk” moskowitz x reader

part one

here’s part 2 by popular demand! based off the arctic monkeys song and amazing request by @deadbeatharlz <3 thank you guys for the support on part 1 im so happy you liked it :)

warnings: self harming behavior, LOTS of swearing, alcohol and drug abuse, sooo so angstyyyy buckle up

summary: it’s been 3 months since your last night with hawk, and you haven’t been yourself.

word count: 3,062

The past 3 months have been rough. Maybe the worst you’ve ever been. You fell into the deep hole that you dug yourself. The hole of loving Hawk Moskowitz.

You never thought you’d be one of those people who let unrequited love devastate their whole being. In fact you always thought the whole heartbreak thing was pathetic and melodramatic. Until it happened to you.

You hate yourself for letting him have this effect on you. But there’s a pestering voice in the back of your mind that reminds you: it’s all your fault. He didn’t ask you to love him. It’s just easier to blame him for your downfall.

Parties, drugs, alcohol. Sex with people you don’t even know. High on the same drug that compelled him to call you in the night.

You’ve become so desperate to forget him that you ruined yourself. It hurts your pride to be the whiny heartbroken girl who let a stupid boy’s rejection shatter her self worth. But the hole is too deep and there’s no hope trying to grasp onto the dirt walls to get out.

The worst part of it is that he sees it all. At school, (if you even go) he looks at you like the scum of the earth as he passes by with his little karate gang. When you end up at the same party, he’ll have a disgusted expression on his face and leave as if he can’t bare to look at you.

Tonight is one of those nights, and you watch him from across the backyard as he goofs around with his friends. He hasn’t noticed you yet, hence why he’s even still here and not on his way out the door to get away from you.

“If you stare at him any longer, I think he’ll shoot up into flames,” your best friend Robby hands you a cup, and you don’t hesitate before downing its unknown contents. The burn in your throat makes you hum with content.

“That’s the plan,” you take your eyes of off Hawk to look at Robby. You gesture to his own cup in his hand, “Are you gonna drink that?”

“Easy there, Y/N. We got here 5 minutes ago,” he warns, but holds out the drink towards you anyway. Robby’s always been worried about you and your habits, but he knows how you can be when you’re told no.

You swallow down the drink in a few seconds, ignoring his remark. “5 minutes? I can beat my record!” you cheer sarcastically, and start walking to the kitchen in search of a keg. Robby follows closely behind you, a wary look on his face.

The fuzzy feeling starts to take over your body as you throw back drink after drink. It’s the buzz you crave every second of every day because it just makes you feel so good. Everything is happier and your cares feel so far away. Hawk feels so far away.

You sit on the couch next to Robby in your dazed trance, drunkenly rambling to him about random things. He glares at anyone who comes near you and looks like they would take advantage of you in your state.

Robby really hates you like this, but he can’t help but feel protective over you. He’s not even a fan of parties; he really only goes to keep an eye on you. You’re grateful even though you act like you hate it when he babysits you.

“Heyyy pretty Y/N! Want some?” Yasmine approaches where you sit, a joint held between her fingers. Her eyes are drooped and she sways as she stands.

You reach out to take the blunt, but you feel Robby push your arm down. “You’re already drunk. That’s enough,” he says sternly, making you roll your eyes.

“I can do what I want, Dad,” you taunt, and take the joint from Yasmine. Smoke fills up your lungs, immediately giving you pleasure. Robby just shakes his head in disapproval as the air around him becomes hazy.

“I’m going to the bathroom. Stay here,” he orders, getting up from the couch.

You nod, but of course, you don’t listen. The sound of splashing from outside sets off a lightbulb above your head and you feel like you’re floating while you walk to the backyard.

Right as you step out of the house, you make eye contact with none other than Hawk. He gives you a distasteful look like always, before turning back to his group. Asshole.

You just scoff and stumble towards the pool, where a couple is making out and a few people are drunkenly playing with the water like little kids.

Reaching the edge of the pool’s rim, you let yourself fall in with a splash. You feel the pressure in your ears start to build as you sink to the bottom. Maybe it’s the fact that you’re cross faded, but being underwater feels like a world of bliss.

The loud music of the party is muted, creating a sense of serenity. The legs of the other people in the pool make you laugh to yourself, sending bubbles from your mouth to the surface. It’s glittery and pretty and you want to stay forever.

You don’t know how long you’re under there for, but you don’t notice your lungs running out of air. It just feels good to be alone for a second. Next thing you know, you feel your eyes start to droop closed; a strange peace overcoming your body.

A loud thrashing noise in the water makes you wake up with a gasp. You swallow too much water as you feel someone grab hold of your arm. It’s all a blur and you’re being pulled up to the surface, taking you away from the tranquil world you were just in.

The music is pounds against your ears again and the air is cold on your skin. You feel your body being laid down on the concrete of the poolside, but everything feels numb. You just feel sleepy and you want to close your eyes again.

“Y/N, hey, wake up. Wake up,” a voice makes your eyes shoot back open. Someone is looking down at you, with a hand shaking your shoulder. Your vision is somewhat blurry, but the mohawk gives it away. It’s him.

You suddenly become aware of the large amount of water in your lungs and you turn over to your side to cough it up. After you get it all out, you notice the people at the party looking at you with eyes of pity mixed with judgement.

“What the fuck were you doing? You could’ve died, are you fucking stupid?” Hawk curses, but even in your inebriated state you can hear a hint of worry in his voice.

You sit up to face him. He looks angry; his clothes and hair are as wet as yours.

Maybe it’s the lack of oxygen in your brain, or maybe it’s the marijuana and alcohol, but you just feel the urge to laugh. So you do. Like a complete maniac. The way he probably just saved your life like he cares is sickly comedic to you.

His face twists in confusion as you break out into a fit of giggles. “Are you serious? You’re fucking insane, Y/N,” he gets up, shaking his head at you. He gives a glare to the people staring, and they look away in fear.

You think he’s going to leave like usual, but he surprises you by grabbing your arm to pull you up. People whisper amongst themselves as he drags you through the backyard, going through a gate that leads to front of the house. You trip over your own feet, still feeling dizzy from almost drowning, but he just pulls you along.

“What are you doing?” you ask, tugging on your arm to try and release it from the tight grip he has on you. You’re both dripping chlorinated water, leaving a track of drops on the concrete below.

“You’re going home Y/N,” he says sternly. You two arrive at his car and he opens the passenger door. “Get in.”

“Hey!” a voice yells from the house and you both turn to see Robby rushing towards the car. He looks pissed, and now you remember him telling you to stay put. Shit.

“Robby I-”

“Don’t get in there with him Y/N,” he says, sending a death stare to the boy next to you.

“I’m taking her home, Keene, so back the fuck off. Get in Y/N,” Hawk snaps, clenching his fists.

You keep quiet, not wanting to add to the fire already starting. They loathe each other; if not because of the karate rivalry, then because of you. To Robby, Hawk broke your heart and made you spiral. To Hawk, Robby is the piece of shit who he thinks is your boyfriend, and he won’t admit it but he’s jealous.

“You’re not driving her, asshole. You’re probably as drunk as her,” Robby reaches to take your arm, but Hawk pulls you back.

“You don’t know shit about me, Keene. I’ve been sober for three months, so yeah, I will drive her,” Hawk picks you up like you’re a doll, placing you in the passenger seat and closing the door. You don’t resist, you just feel tired and your head starts to pound as if the mix of drugs in your system are punishing you. The window’s down, so you can still hear the two boys loud and clear.

I’ve been sober for three months, his voice echoes in your head.

“Oh so now you care so much about her? It’s your fault she’s like this!” Robby raises his voice even more, starting to move towards Hawk threateningly. You begin to feel scared that a physical fight might actually break out, but you don’t know what to do.

“I’m not the one who almost let her die a few minutes ago, am I? Just fuck off, we’re leaving,” Hawk dismisses him, walking around the car to the driver’s seat. You’re surprised by his self control to not throw a punch, especially with his reputation.

“Robby, it’s okay. I just want to go home. I’ll call you, alright?” you reach your hand out of the window in reassurance and he takes hold of it. Hawk clenches his jaw as he turns on the engine.

“Promise you’ll be careful? I’m sorry I left you,” Robby furrows his eyebrows in worry. When he came out of the bathroom, someone filled him in on what happened to you and he almost had a heart attack.

“Promise. And it’s my fault,” you hook your pinky with his, before the car pulls out of the curb and separates you from your best friend. He watches you guys drive away, an anxious expression etched on his face.

The whole situation has sobered you up pretty well, and now you’re left with a throbbing headache, wet clothes, and awkward tension. You hate it. Being sober. You miss the foggy feeling that prevents you from thinking too hard about things. But now you’re inches away from the boy who broke your heart, all by choice.

You don’t know why you agreed to go with him, but did you even have a choice? You’re confused by his actions. He acts like he hates you but he jumps in a pool for you. He yelled at you but he’s driving you home. It all makes you overthink and it causes your head to ache even more.

You hold your head in your hands to try and ease the pain as Hawk drives quietly.

“You good?” he breaks the silence. His voice is softer compared to how he talked to Robby minutes ago.

“Head hurts,” you mumble.

“What were you doing back there? If I didn’t get you out, you’d probably be in the hospital right now,” he says. You peek at him through your hands and his eyes are on the road.

“I don’t know,” you sigh. “It was just peaceful. I didn’t really even think about breathing.”

He scoffs. “Well that’s just fucking stupid. You’re lucky I noticed you were under for so long.”

“Well thanks,” you reply quietly, feeling like a little kid being scolded.

There’s a couple beats of silence before he speaks, “What happened to you?”

The question makes you sit up and look over at him. “What are you talking about?”

“The old Y/N wouldn’t even touch a drink. You’re different,” Hawk taps his finger on the wheel in thought. His icy blue eyes quickly glance at your confused look before returning to the road.

“You happened, Hawk.” You pinch your temples in frustration. Anger starts to bubble up in your stomach at his criticism. At the mention of “old you”.

“I didn’t do this to you,” he shakes his head, as if trying to convince himself of his own words.

“You did,” you raise your voice, making him flinch. “You know it.”

“What, because I stopped sleeping with you? I didn’t make you fall in love with me, Y/N. You did that to yourself,” he spits, sending a knife to your heart and making you see red.

“You knew I loved you way before I said it. But you still stringed me along, didn’t you? You knew I would pick up everytime you called. You knew that I would let you into my bed because I was the girl who loved you no matter how fucking shitty you were!” you fire back, vomiting out words that you’ve wanted to say for months. The alcohol in your system makes you bolder than usual, but you’re grateful for it.

He’s at a loss for words at your outburst so you continue, “I didn’t ask for this Hawk. Loving you. I’m sorry that I’m such a burden and that you hate me so much that you can’t stand being in the same room as me. But please just answer me this and I’ll leave you alone forever. I’ll leave when we show up at the same party and I’ll even hide in the halls so you don’t have to see my face.”

You pause, choking on your words. You didn’t even realize that the car is already parked in front of your house and your clothes are halfway dry.

“Why don’t you love me?” your voice cracks as you spit out the question that has caused you to throw yourself away. The question with an answer that could dissipate your self worth in a mere moment.

Hawk finally looks into your glassy eyes with shock. He could’ve never anticipated what you asked him and his mouth runs dry.

“I told you, I- I don’t deserve someone like you loving me,” he swallows, but you shake your head.

“That’s not what I asked.”

He blinks slowly, trying to come up with an excuse. Any excuse, to avoid telling you the truth. You can see the inner conflict on his face, the panicked speed of his running thoughts.

“You should go home, Y/N,” he deflects, turning away from you. Putting on his mask to keep you from reading him like a book.

“I’m not going until you tell me,” you demand.

“Just get out of the car, fuck!” Hawk yells, slamming his hands down on the steering wheel. It makes you jump a little, but you’re too angry to fear the flames in his eyes.

“Why can’t you just tell me!” you fire back. “You came to me almost every night, so why do I feel something that you don’t? Is it me? Is there something wrong with me?”

“What do you want me to fucking say Y/N! That I do love you? Fucking fine. I love you. Is that what you wanted to hear? Just get out.”

I love you.

The same words you said that made him leave.

“You don’t even mean that,” you blink back your tears.

His voice is softer now, more gentle. “If I didn’t mean it then I wouldn’t have said it.”

“You said you needed me and then you left me,” your voice shakes and you hate how pathetic you sound.

“I-I didn’t leave you,” he stammers before taking a deep breath. “I left because you wanted something more than I could give you. I would’ve felt like a selfish asshole if we became more than just sex, Y/N. You deserve someone like Keene and yeah he’s a pussy but he’s good. Better than me.”

It feels like every piece in the puzzle is being put together. Everything makes sense. He does love you, but he was just afraid. He can’t be near you because it hurts too much to see someone he can’t have. Somehow, you can’t find the anger you’ve held against him for these past months; you just understand him now.

“I’m sorry, alright? For everything. For treating your feelings like shit. All of it.”

You swallow, thinking about his words. It all feels too much and the truth is now looking you in the eye, demanding an answer. You love him, but he dropped your heart on the floor for you to pick up every shard. Is one sorry going to magically fix everything?

“I- I don’t know what to say,” you admit, and he nods in understanding.

“You don’t have to say anything. Let’s just... move on. And you get better... I hate seeing you like this,” Hawk scans your red eyes and dilated pupils. “We’ll get to a better place and you and me, we’ll be good.”

It’s bittersweet, but he’s right. Being together now just because he loves you back would be a huge jump that would only end in broken hearts and toxic cycles. It would be foolish. As much as you want him, the only person who can fix you is yourself.

So it’s a meet up at the top of the mountain, when you’ve both made the journey from opposite sides.

“A better place,” you reiterate, before placing a light kiss to his cheek and leaving the car with a new sense of closure.

a/n: that was longer than i planned and a freaking roller coaster!!!!!!! im not sure if there should be a part 3? lmk what you think maybe it’ll just be short. but hehe i added robby into the mix he was so cute. ty for reading!

taglist for people who wanted part 2 :) ty friends for the support <3 @littlered6307 @deadbeatharlz @spiderman-berries @axastasiasstuff @r0-xie @estupidteen @hawkwhore @idkwhatishouldput4

#eli moskowitz #hawk cobra kai #cobra kai #cobra kai imagine #cobra kai x reader #eli moskowitz imagine #eli moskowitz x reader #hawk imagine #hawk x reader #cobrakai #hawk moskowitz

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raineydays411 · 3 years

Text

And the adventure begins

Bruce Banner x daughter!reader

A/n: yay! Another part out! Finally lol. Now time to work on my Loki fic and ignore this one for two weeks lol💀 jk I’m trying to keep up y’all I promise. Anyway hope you like it💕💕

Masterlist

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now that you think about it, maybe you shouldn’t have skipped school today. Maybe then you wouldn’t be in this situation.

....On another planet. Watching Thor be forced to fight some old dudes “Champion”, whatever that means.

Let’s go back to the beginning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nerves filled your body as you walked to school. You had an audition in the school play today and you were determined to get the part. Tony had offered to take you to school today but you decided to walk as it would give you extra time to learn your lines. As you pushed through the busy streets, occasionally bumping into a random pedestrian, you heard some girls whispering.

“Oh my god is that..”

“Yes! oh my go, he's so handsome”

“Ask him for a selfie”

“No you go ask hm”

At first you rolled your eyes, thinking it was just some youtuber or Tik tok star, you kept walking, eyes down re-reading your script. Then you heard the girls speak again.

“Thanks Thor, I’m sorry Jane dumped you.”

Hearing the name, your head swiveled up. You scanned the crowd looking for the blonde man, at first missing him as he wasn’t in his usual outfit of a cape and battle armour. But then you saw him, in a hoodie and some jeans. Picking up the pace, you jog toward the god not noticing the darker clothed man next to him.

“....it was a mutual dumping”

“I didn’t know the renaissance fair was in town” you say, a small smirk making its way on your face at the quip.

Both Thor and ...Loki?! Turn around in surprise at the sudden voice behind them. Only to see you looking up at them with a arched brow.

“Lady Y/n! How wonderful it is to see you” Thor boomed as he brought you into a bone crushing hug. Over his shoulder you could see Loki roll his eyes.

“Honestly, had I known this trip would consist of young woman flocking to you, I would have allowed your hammer to kill me.”

Thor ignored his brother as he put you down. “My how you’ve grown.”

You smile and say, “Well the last time you saw me I was twelve.” Then you eye Loki with distrust. “Um Thor, why’d you bring brother dearest back to New York?”

Loki looks at you with distaste, “ Who is this child, and why is she conversing with us?”

“Brother” Thor warns and then turns to you, “ Lady Y/n, we are searching for our father, it seems as if my brother” Thor harshly pats Loki on the shoulder, “ Has misplaced him.”

You look at Loki and then look at the building that has been demolished

, “ Woah, I didn’t know Gods put their parents in nursing homes” You say “ If you want we can go back to the Tower and try to track him down”

Thor smiles at the suggestion, “ A wonderful idea, tell me, how have my comrades been in my absence?”

You cringe at the thought of explaining the events of the so called “Civil war”. Then notice a ring of sparks forming around Loki.

“Uhh Thor” You say as you nod your head

“What’s this..wha.what are you doing?” He asks in alarm. Loki looks confused as the sparks get larger and more erratic.

“ This isn’t me” Loki says in confusion. Then suddenly the ground opens up beneath him and he falls through with an alarmed “Oh!” only leaving behind a business card. You and Thor look at each other, confusion written on both of your faces.

“Loki” Thor whispers as he nudges the card with his umbrella. You look at him with concern and think to yourself

“Does..does he think the cards Loki?”

You bend down to pick up the business card and read it out loud.

“177a Bleeker St” you look at Thor and ask,” Do you know anyone from there?”

“ No” He says, ‘ i don’t even know where that is.”

You sigh, looking down at your script and making a decision. “ Well, lets go find your brother.”

And with that, you turn around and start walking to your destination.

“Oh well, school can wait”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You and Thor find yourselves in front of two big black doors. You stand near Thor as he raises his hand to knock. Suddenly, before his hand is able to touch the door, you find yourselves inside the building.

“What the fuck?” you mutter to yourself as you look around.

“Thor Odinson” a deep voice says. You look up to see a floating figure in the shadows coming towards you both. Thor pushes you behind him as he holds him umbrella threateningly. If you weren’t in potential danger, you would have laughed at the sight. The figure floated into the light and you saw it was a man.

He was wearing a cloak and some weird robes with yellow gloves. He was relatively handsome, salt and pepper hair that was slicked back, high cheek bones and a goatee. He wasn’t horrible to look at. His deep, baritone voice was soothing.

“God of Thunder” He said looking at Thor. He glanced at the umbrella. “ You can put down the umbrella.” Then his gaze turned to you.

“Y/n Banner. I wasn’t expecting you here” He said eyes narrowing at you,” Shouldn’t you be in school?”

You chuckled nervously, “ Eh, how can I abandon a friend in need?”

The man smiles and looks back at Thor and suddenly your in a different room. Looking around in awe you hear Thor start talking.

“So..Earth has wizards now” He says, picking up a dagger from a display on a table, then dropping all of them trying to put them back. You try to hold back a laugh, feeling embarrassed for the god.

You might have failed though because Thor looked at you with an unimpressed glance. You giggle out loud this time, as you watch him struggle with the knives. Everytime he managed to put one back, another fell.

“The preferred term is Master of the Mystic arts...” Clank! another knife falls. The man looks very unimpressed, at your giggling and Thor's clumsiness.” You can leave that now.”

At those words Thor leaves the knifes, trying to regaine his cool, he leans against the table.

“Alright wizard, who are you and why should I care?”

“Thor! That’s rude!”

Ignoring you, their conversation continues,

“My name is Dr. Stephen Strange and I have some questions for you.” He says as he eyes you and Thor. “Have a seat”

Within a second you’re in another room in the building...or least you think it is. The wind blows your hair back as you are suddenly dropped into a chair. You can see Thor look around startled and confused at the sudden setting change. You’re sure your face mirrored his as well.

“Tea?” Dr. Strange asks nonchalantly, a cup of tea appearing in your hands. You look at it in awe, not used to this level of magic, or magic at all. Thor on the other hand looked unimpressed with the cup.

“I don’t drink tea.” He says examining the cup that looked small in his hands.

“Well what do you drink?”

“Not tea.” Thor says shaking his head. You roll you eyes as you go for a sip of tea, but before you can a large pitcher of beer was in its place. You look up at the two men with a raised eyebrow.

“I hate to be a bother, but I do drink tea”

Strange looked at you in amusement as he returns the beer to tea.

“Jesus made water into wine, you make beer into tea. Interesting..” You say as you sip your tea. It was perfectly brewed of course. Dr. Strange smiled at the comparison

“Well its not exactly like that” Then he turned to Thor, “ So, I keep a watch list of individuals and beings from the realms that may be a threat to this world. Your adopted brother Loki is one of those beings.”

You scoff and roll your eyes and mutter, “Yeah no kidding.” Then you finish the last sips of tea, as you bring it down, the glass is already refilled

Thor looks up from his glass that he basically chugged,”Thats a worthy inclusion” His beer is refilled as well. He looks at it in astonishment.

“Then why bring him here?” Strange asks leaning forward.

“We’re looking for my father.”

“So..if I were to tell you where Odin was..all parties concerned would return to Asgard” He then looks at you, “ or upper Manhattan.”

“Promptly” “Try and keep me away from this place.”

“Great then I’ll help you...and get to that later”

You smirk at the doctor, knowing that it’s basically impossible to squash your curiosity once you get started. Then you realized something.

“Wait, if you knew where Odin is, why didn't you tell anyone?”

“Well he was very adamant he was not to be disturbed,” He turned to Thor, “Your father had chosen to remain in exile. Also you don’t have a phone.”

“Hmm, no I don’t have a..a phone but you could’ve sent an electronic letter. It’s called an email.”

“Thor you don’t have a computer.”

“What for?”

You lock eyes with Dr. Strange and share a look.

“Uh huh well, my father is no longer in exile, so if you can tell me where he is, the quicker I can take him home.” Thor then takes a sip of his beer.

“Okay, hes in Norway.” Suddenly your on your feet again standing an a library of some sort. You’re a bit unbalance and catch yourself on the self. Strange is muttering to himself as he looks through a book. Then again, you’re in another room with a shelf. Nearly falling over you cling onto Thor, but he’s in no better shape than you, beer spilling everywhere.

“Oh we don’t need that” Boom, in another room, this time you do fall and Thor breaks another shelf. He places the glass on a table, shaking the spilled beer of his person.

“Can you stop doing that?” He asked irritated

“Please” you add in, looking up from your place on the ground.

You’re on your feet in a blink of an eye, feeling dizzy at the continuous movement.

“Can I..I need a piece of your hair.” Strange says looking at Thor.

“Let me tell you something, my hair is not to be --OW”

You smile sweetly as you pass the yanked out hair to the Strange. “ Here you go Dr. Wizard.” He makes a face at the nickname but takes the hair with a nod of thanks. Thor looks at you in betrayal.

“Don’t be such a drama queen” You say rolling your eyes. You then walk away from the duo, examining books and artifact that were in the room. You were too caught up in looking at all the cool stuff you didn’t pay attention to the rest of the conversation. Suddenly you were in the front room again. You managed to stay on your feet as Thor tumbled down the stairs. You watched in amazement as Dr. Strange did some hand movements and created a shape in sparks.

“Could’ve just walked.” Thor muttered as he brushed the dust and wrinkles out off of his clothes.

“He’s waiting for you.” Then Dr. Strange turned to you,” Would you like to go home Ms. Banner?”

You looked at him with consideration,” Um Mister Strange, do you think you can help me find my dad?”

“I’ll see what I can do.” Then he turned to Thor,” Don’t forget your umbrella.

“Oh right.” Thor sticks his arm out like he’s summoning his hammer. You look at him confused. Then you here several bangs and crashes, as if something is being thrown around the rooms.

“ohhh thats where your hammer went”

Dr. Strange looks at Thor unimpressed again.

“Sssorry” The umbrella lands in his hands and he brushes the glass off the hammer.” I suppose I need my brother back”

“Oh right”

The a portal appears a few feet off the ground, in comes Loki screaming as he falls and hits the ground.

He flips his hair back as he catches his breath, “ I have been falling..FOR THIRTY MINUTES”

You snicker as you go to help the god of mischief up,” Come on reindeer games, lets get you up”

He doesn’t decline your help but he doesn’t thank you either. You turn to see Thor and Strange shake hands.

“Handle me?!” “Oh boy” “ Who are you?”

“Loki..”

“You think you’re a sorcerer? Don’t think for one minute--”

“Alright bye bye” The portal then is thrown to them as Loki charges with two daggers.

It’s silent in the room as you whislte,” Well he’s very catty.”

Strange laughs as he nods,” Come on kid lets find your dad.”

You’re then taken back to the library and you give him a piece of your hair.

“You have had quite the adventure today.” Dr. Strange says as he looks through the books again.

“Ehh, when you live with the Avengers stuff like this is an everyday thing.”

“I could imagine” He says smiling at you. “ Well..it seems like your father is off world”

“Off world?” You question,”why would he be...?”

“Your guess is as good as mine.” Then a bag appeared in front of you.

“I have a feeling you won’t stop searching until you find your father.” He nods to the bag. “ Everything you need to survive in Sakkarr is in there, I trust you know how to use knives?”

“Yeah, Bucky taught me.”

“Perfect, now you must try to get on the grandmasters good side, that’ll give you the resources you need to find your father. Don’t get caught by scavenger or scrapper , you’ll either get eaten or sold into slavery.”

“Slavery?” you ask with an eyebrow raised.

“Sakkarr is known to be the ‘dump’ of the universe. It’s filled with people you must be weary of. The main entertainment are these gladiator type fights the Grandmaster puts on.” He thinks for a bit the conjures up a portal. He pulls a amulet out of it then hands it to you. “If you find your father, or need a quick escape, rub this amule three times t and I’ll make a portal for you to come back home”

You nod, nervous to go on your personal mission. You look up at Dr.strange and hug him. “ Thanks Dr.Wizard.”

He pats your back uncomfortably,” It’s Stephen.”

You let go of him and smile,”Well, beam me up Scotty”

He rolls his eyes and creates a portal, you take a deep breath and look at him. He sends you a reassuring smile and you’re filled with determination. Then you step through.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You step through it to see...the steps to some weird looking palace. You look around to see an even weirder looking city. It looks like its built out of scraps of metal or parts. You walk up the steps and into the palace. You look around, astonished at the amount of people??

Beings. So many different kinds of aliens. All different colors and shapes. It was like a Star Wars movie. Then you see a familiar face.

“Loki??”

He looks up at you in confusion, you speed towards him, happy to see a familiar face. Even if it is Thor's evil brother.

“Ah Thor's child friend. This doesn’t seem like your type of setting.”

“I’m looking for my father, Stephen says he’s here.”

He scoffs, looking around the room. “It seems everyone is looking for their fathers.”

“What are you doing here? I thought you were in Norway with Thor and your dad”

“Well it seems that father dearest has been hiding a secret daughter. Who appeared after my father died. And is destined to destroy Asgard.”

“Well shit” you blurt out. “Are..are you okay?”

Loki looks at you like you’re a puzzle.

“What.”

“Well..” you start nervously, “it sounds like a traumatic experience, so..are you okay?”

He’s quiet for a few minutes, just staring at you. Suddenly he turns around. “We must see the grandmaster. He’s the only one who can guarantee your protection, and I’m sure you would prefer not to be slaughtered brutally in the competition.”

He walks ahead of you, and you stare after him wondering what just happened. Then after he noticed you’re not following him he turns and says

“Well, come on. I haven’t got all day.”

“Oh right.” You catch up to him and walk by his side. Looking around in wonder.

“Why are you looking around like that?” Loki asks as he makes his way through a crowd of...pink women. They had their hair in very intricate styles and weird metallic unitards. They eyed you as you passed by them.

“I feel like I’m in a Star Wars movie.” You pass by a man, he looked almost reptilian. He had pale yellow skin with green slits as his eyes. He looks like he was gambling or something.

“I don’t know what that is. Why would stars commence in battle? It makes no sense.” Loki scoffs as he turns to look at you. You laugh at his misunderstanding.

“I just..never seen..” you trail off not knowing how to explain. Luckily, Loki seems to get what you were says.

“ I can see this is a bit of a change for you. But..you have seen people from other planets before.”

“ yeah..it’s just a lot to take in.” You smile at Loki, “ I’ll be fine, don’t worry. I can freak out about it after I meet the Grandmaster.”

He nods his head and starts walking again, but this time he’s closer to you. Finally, you reach a large room. It’s filled with guards all wearing different colored armor. They part as Loki walks through them, confident with long strides. You follow him, shrinking under their gaze. Loki leans down to whisper to you

“ when you meet the grandmaster, do not be too meak . And do not mention anything about your father till I tell you. Actually, just follow my lead.”

You look up at him and before you say anything, a large woman appears in the room. She looks normal to you. Stocky, a stern face with white markings. A slicked back bun. She’s wearing yellow armor with black accents. She’s holding a large staff with an orb attached to the end.

“ Didn’t the Grandmaster just see you” she says to Loki, glaring at him. Loki smiles charmingly and says

“Oh yes, but it appears that I have found a...friend.. of mine. She, like I, has arrived here on Sakkarr by accident and is hoping to meet with the Grandmaster.”

Then Loki nudges you in front of him, and into the view of the woman. She looks at you with distaste.

“ Poor child is skin and bones. She’s puny.”

You look in offense, but before you can say anything Loki spoke for you.

“Yes, and that’s why I have decided to take her under my wing.”

“ Can she not speak for herself? You expect the Grandmaster to—“ “ Easy Topaz”

“Loki! How wonderful to see you again, even though it’s been about twenty minutes”

A voice cut through the air. Suddenly everyone in the room stood up straight. Topaz immediately stopped talking and turned. A man came in on a floating throne. He was wearing red, blue, and gold robes. He had a blue line down his chin and blue under eye liner. He...he looked like..

“Jeff Goldblum?”

Loki looked at you like you were insane and the Grandmaster and Topaz just looked confused.

“What did she call me?” He whispered to Topaz, she looked at him in equal bafflement. She then tries to hand him the staff.

“ Why are you handing me the melty stick?! She had a slip of a tounge! That’s not a capital offense”

“What is wrong with you?” “I’m sorry! It just slipped out!” “ Do you want to die” “To be fair, that was the biggest compliment I could have given him. Jeff Goldblum is basically a god of cinema.”

Topaz looked at the Grandmaster, “ apparently this..Jeff.. is a god from her world.”

“Hm, child.”

You and Loki stop your whisper arugument and turn to the Grandmaster.

“Come forward.”

You look at Loki in fear and step up to the floating throne.

“Hm” The man says as he examines you. You suddenly feel self conscious about what you’re wearing. A Jurassic park shirt (ironically) with a turtleneck under, some plaid pants and converse. To be fair you weren’t expecting to end up on a different planet.

“I don’t know what Jurassic park is, but look there’s a big lizard on her shirt” he says to Topaz, “ you like lizards?” He asks you. Your eyes widened at the question not expecting it.

“Oh I think I’ve embarrassed her, it’s okay if you like them. I don’t personally like them, they’re all scales and fast and blegh” the Grandmaster rambles then Topaz chimes in

“ and they can grow back limbs”

“Yes! That’s disgusting”

“ I’m sorry, it’s not a lizard, it’s a dinosaur ” you explain. “ it’s from a movie, it has Jeff Goldblum...”

You trail off as they stare at you.

“ Go on, you keep mentioning this Jeff Goldblum, I’d like to hear more about him.”

So there you were, explaining all the different movies Jeff Goldblum was in. From the Fly to Jurassic Park. Everyone seemed...intrested. The Grandmaster somehow got it in his head that you were this great storyteller. So now you were on his good side, just like Loki.

“ Storyteller, I welcome you to Sakkarr! I have never met a child with such interesting stories!” He turns to Topaz, “ Aren’t they entertaining?! So adventurous!”

“ I think they’re weird.” “ Oh don’t be such a buzzkill”

“ I thank you Grandmaster, for being so gracious with my...ward” Loki says, “I assure you that I will keep her out of trouble.”

“ Yes yes, now go, if she is going to stay here, she’ll need to fit in. Topaz, see if you can find a tailor for the child, she’ll need a change of clothes. You as well Loki”

She nods and gestures for you both to follow her. As you walk through the futuristic castle, you are completely in awe. Even though you live with Tony, this is a different kind of technology. Topaz gives you both a tour. She mentions the fights and the arena, but you don’t pay too much attention. Finally you make it to the tailor. After being fussed over and much debating, you finally come to an agreement.

You end up with a sort of body armor. With a black catsuit made out of a leather like material, there were pieces of armor covering your legs, hips, torso, shoulders and arms. Blue fabric was wrapped around your waist, draping down the front and under the armor there. There was also fabric wrapped around your upper arm and shoulders preventing the straps from rubbing against your skin. Finally, to top it all off, a long blue cape drape down your shoulders. You felt awesome. You took the daggers Stephen gave you out of the bag and attached them to your hips. And the amulet around your neck.

“What do you think?” You asked Loki. He looked at you for a bit.

“Your daggers should be attached to your thighs, that way the hilts are at your fingertips and not your shoulders.” He squints for a bit, “ that cape looks ridiculous.”

“Fuck off man I look awesome.”

Loki just laughs and goes to put his outfit on. “ Such foul language for a child.” Then he comes out fully dressed. With a yellow cape.

“ oh? My cape was ridiculous?”

“Hush.”

You smile, and a silence falls between you both. You sigh and look down, playing with the end of your cape. Loki looks at you, examines your face, then looks away.

“ Why...why did you ask if I was alright?” He questions, “when you first saw me..?”

You looked at him your face scrunched in a puzzled expression, “ because.”

“Because what?” Loki asks, not understanding where your coming from.

“ I don’t know, because like I said, something that traumatic must’ve been shitty. I know I wouldn’t be okay.”

“I do not understand you. Why care about someone you never met? Nevertheless someone like me?”

“Someone like you?” Now you were really confused. What does he mean by that?

“No midgardian would trust me. Especially after...” He stops, hinting about the attack of New York. “ I am not... not a good person. Nor a good influence. Not for a child.”

“That’s bullshit.”

Your words seem to startle him.

“I beg your pardon?”

“ That’s. Bullshit.” You stand to face him.

“Loki, I’ve known you for about six hours. And in that time, you managed to help me gain favor of a ruler, enough for him to give me a room to stay in and new clothes. You also helped me when you could’ve just left me alone. From what I’ve seen, you’re pretty chill.”

“Chill?” He asks quirking an eyebrow.

“A good person.”

He stops and looks at you, “ you think I’m a good person? Even though I nearly destroyed your planet?”

“ Sure. We all make mistakes.”

He stares at you for a while. Smiles briefly and then gets up from where he was leaning.

“ You, my dear, are one odd child.” He walks out of the room. “Come along, I must get you to your room. It’s late and I am certain you e had a long day.”

You follow him to your room, turns out someone was paying attention to the tour. He leads you to your temporary room, shows you how to open the door and lock it, then makes sure your settled.

“Well, it’s time for me to retire. Good night child.”

When he doesn’t get a response he turns around, he sees you’ve fallen asleep on the bed. He chuckles at the sound of you muttering in your sleep.

“ An odd child indeed.”

Then he covers you, turns out the lights and shuts the door. Leaving you to go to his room.

( he promptly freaks out over how quickly he’s grown fond of you.)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Taglist: @ella-ivanov

#thor ragnarok #bruce banner x daughter!reader #loki x teen!reader #marvel x reader #loki x poc!reader #avengers x teen!reader #bruce banner imagine #bruce banner #hulk #marvel #thor odinson #reader insert #poc reader #thor odison x reader #dr strange

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that-foul-legacy-lover · 3 years

Note

i am BEGGING you for a part two oh my god i am in shambles…. i am too weak for angst 😭😭😭 THE SOFT GLANCE??? BYE. I AM GONE. /lh

- 🍒

eeeee i'm excited because i had a lot of ideas for this and i think it came out pretty good!! it diverts from canon (obviously) but i'm proud of how it came out >:)

did this get out of hand? probably but it's FINE because it's good <3 dw comrade i'm weak to angst too

Part One is right here!!: Golden House is Falling Down

~ * ~

The Sky's Tears (Part Two to "Golden House is Falling Down") Foul Legacy Childe x Reader Gender Neutral (pronouns not mentioned) Hurt/Comfort Warnings: Descriptions of pain, injuries, blood, rain, thunder, lightning, fear, anxiety, mentions of death, crying, diversions from canon

~ * ~

It was the rain that woke you. Seeping between the cracks of stone above you, it dripped and fell, landing with a small splash on your cheek. You had frowned in your unwilling sleep, your body urging you to stay unconscious. Then it had happened again, and again. The single drop had strengthened into a small stream of water trickling onto your face, persistent in its endeavor of waking you. You groaned in irritation and wiped at your cheek, but the miniature waterfall was stubborn, more stubborn than you ever were. You couldn’t blame it. Water always goes down after all. With a frustrated string of select words, you crack your eyes open and find yourself face-to-face with a large slab of stone. You furrow your brows, confused- you don’t recall falling asleep in a cave. The stone was smooth- much too elegant and orderly to be part of a regular cavern. What was it? Part of a building? Then why were you just getting rained on? The rain sounded rather close- you can hear it pattering on the roof of whatever structure you were inside. The ground was damp and gritty, a stark contrast from the polished walls around you, and dim light filtered in from the side your back was facing. Curiouser and curiouser, you prop yourself up on your elbow to roll over. Only to gasp and jerk as pain shoots up your legs. You fall back to the ground immediately, eyes wide with shock and horror. As your flesh and bones become re-accustomed to one another, you’re made increasingly aware of the dull pain settled in your body, flaring up whenever you do more than move your head. Memories resurface, paining your mind as well as your limbs. There was a fight in the Golden House, between the Traveler and Childe. You were there. You watched as some foreign power took control of Childe’s body and turned him into a monster, and as a burst of electro energy combined with hydro to strike you unconscious. Then everything had gone dark. Now there was no one- only you under a mysterious ruin, barely protected from the icy rain. Gingerly, you feel around your stomach for a gash or injury, only to find a firmly wrapped bandage. Your eyes widen, then you sigh in relief. Thank goodness for the haste of the Traveler- although they were nowhere to be seen, you were sure they had made sure to at least wrap your wound before being pulled away to something else more important. Your worries for them were next to none- they were the Traveler, savior of Mondstadt and quite possibly Liyue. They could take care of themself. You smile for a moment, but then your mouth drops into a worried frown. Childe- where was Childe? You can’t remember what happened to the Harbinger. You need to find him, even though he nearly struck you dead. Inhaling a deep breath, you stiffen yourself and force your body to turn over, to face the weak light shining through the rain. Your bones sing out in pain, as if they’ve been stiffened and frozen so they’re brittle, so brittle they’d snap at the slightest movement. But they don’t, even if they feel like they should. You drag yourself into a standing position, using the slippery walls as support. As you limp out of the curious cave, the heavy rain chills and numbs your skin, washing away any semblance of warmth you might’ve collected from sleep, and you look around to get your bearings. All around you are the crumbled remains of the famed Golden House. You quickly clap a hand over your mouth to suppress a scream, but nothing comes out, your voice seemingly gone from the feeling of dread in your stomach. The eternal vault and world’s supply of mora, gone. Rubble beneath your feet. You swallow thickly and shake your head, letting your gaze wander to try and calm the anxiety in your veins. Something vaguely shining catches your eye, and you shuffle closer to have a look. A thick, sticky liquid coats the ground underneath more ruins, a blue dark enough to be black and oddly glinting, like tiny stars flashing through the night sky. There’s more before you, a disjointed trail that leads into the trees, the rest of it washed away by the storm. You have a sickening idea of what it might be.

Gritting your teeth, you straighten and stand again, following the starry patches into the nearby forest. Here the path is more clear, a bold arrow of deep blue and dancing lights pointing your way. It’s a long journey up and down and around, the trees providing you constant support through your own pain. The slash on your stomach stopped bleeding, but the dried red still mocks you as you take one step after another. The sky occasionally flashes with lightning and thunders at you threateningly, but too distant to reach you. And the rain never relents. The scattered stars lead you to a cave- a real cave, good and proper- that offers you shelter from the crying clouds above. But you see nothing, and feel like crying yourself. Something blinks at you. You squeak in fear, jumping away from whatever it is- you can see its claws, sharp and true- and press yourself against the wall, unwilling to go back out into the rain. One eye stares and creeps closer, and you vaguely wonder if it’d be blinking or winking. There’s a deep, rumbling growl from the darkness as it approaches, and you shut your own eyes, too weak and injured to fight. A warm, clawed hand gently cups your face, and your breath hitches. A thumb carefully rubs your cheek, and the growl filters into a strong purr. And suddenly, you know. It’s him. It’s him. Your eyes open as quickly as they had closed, and you find yourself staring up at an enormous, monstrous Childe, almost the same as he was in the bottom of the Golden House. Up close, you see differences. What you thought was a cape is now a pair of sparkling wings, laying flat on his back, and dried cuts litter his body. He’s kneeling towards you instead of floating, and his mask has changed just barely, but enough for you to notice. He’s smiling, looking at you with a soft, fond expression. You reach up to hold his face as well, and he leans into your touch, purrs becoming steadily louder. A single tear rolls down your cheek, and he whines in concern, but you simply wipe it away. You can’t cry. Not now. A silent question hangs in the air, and when you look up, you ask him with your eyes. What happened? He simply shakes his head- he doesn’t know. But he can’t change back. Suddenly he leans in and presses his face to yours with a quiet whimper. He’s scared, just like you are. But you offer a moment of respite to calm him, although you can see how his claws clutch the ground and how his shoulders tense. Snuggling closer, you bury one hand in his fluff and place the other in his own, humming at how warm he feels compared to your rain-slicked skin. You feel his hand gently clasp yours, and the other curls around your waist as he carefully sets his head on your shoulder. As you pet his fluff and make your way up to his mask, you can hear his purrs resume as he and you both begin to drift into a cozy, peaceful sleep. Outside, the windy rain becomes a dancing melody, and the world allows a brief moment of bliss.

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