lumiereandstellaluna

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Xavier (to Lumiere): I'm the biggest hater/I hate the way that you walk/the way that you talk/I hate the way that you dress... Me (as MC): Um, sir, you do realize you and Lumiere are the SAME PERSON, right? Xavier:

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter Eleven: Lights, Camera, Action!

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn’t been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

Thomasin watches as Tsuki disappears back into the phone. As she rushes from out of the hidden corner, her Director spots her. "There you are, Thomasin! Where the hell did you disappear to? We're trying to film here."

"Ah, sorry sir. I just...had to be somewhere fast." With an apologetic smile, she takes her seat beside him, ready to take in the next scene set to film.

Xavier, ever watchful, observed the exchange between Thomasin and her director from his concealed position. He noted the slight tension in her posture as she offered her explanation, the way she seamlessly slipped back into her role amidst the crew. It was a dance they both knew well—balancing their secret war with the demands of their public lives.

As Thomasin settled back into her seat, Xavier's gaze lingered on her for a moment longer, ensuring she was back in the rhythm of her work before he silently withdrew. He moved like a shadow, unseen, his presence fading into the background as he contemplated their next move.

The promise of further upgrades from Tsuki was a beacon of hope, but Xavier knew that hope alone would not protect them. They would need to remain vigilant, to hone their senses and their skills. The battle against the Doll Maker and her chaotic energy was far from over, and Xavier was ready to face whatever came next, with Thomasin by his side and Tsuki's guidance lighting their way.

The filming finishes without incident, and Christian de Arias is gracious enough to meet with his fans afterward. At first Thomasin simply watches, nothing how Christian seems to appreciate the support of his fans. But as she steps away to grabs her things, she senses it - a feeling that says "hold up. wait a minute. something's not right." Not as loud or as overwhelming as alarm bells, but strong enough to get someone to pause. 

Her eyes drift back over the Christian and the crowd of girls. At first, nothing is out of the ordinary. But then she sees her - a woman with raven hair, pale skin, and eyes like hot red coals. She was beautiful and off-putting at the same time.

"No...it can't be..." Thomasin slowly makes her way over, just as the woman meets with Christian face to face.

Xavier, having remained nearby under the guise of an inconspicuous bystander, felt the shift in the atmosphere at the same moment Thomasin did. His instincts, finely tuned to her wavelengths, picked up on the subtle cue of unease that rippled from her. He followed her gaze, his eyes landing on the raven-haired woman whose presence seemed to cast a shadow despite the bright lights of the film set.

His hand subtly brushed against the solar charm in his pocket, feeling the faint thrum of its power—a silent confirmation of the unease that had settled in his gut. The woman's eyes, glowing like embers, were a telltale sign of something otherworldly, something connected to the chaos they were sworn to combat.

As Thomasin approached, Xavier mirrored her movements, closing the distance while remaining out of sight. He was a ghost, a protector ready to emerge from the ether should the need arise. The woman's interaction with Christian was a scene that demanded his full attention, every sense alert for the slightest hint of danger.

The air was charged with an invisible tension, a prelude to a confrontation that seemed inevitable. Xavier was prepared to act, to step out of the shadows and into the fray, his commitment to Thomasin and their cause as unwavering as ever. The raven-haired woman was an enigma, a potential threat that Xavier and Thomasin would face together, as they had faced countless others before.

"Hello there, my dear," Christian coos as he approaches the weird woman. "Thank you for coming out to support me. I appreciate you taking the time to do so."

"The pleasure is all mine, Mr. de Arias." Even her voice was creepy. There as no doubt about it - she was a threat. "It's just a shame that no one else will have the pleasure of ever meeting you again."

"Huh?" Before Christian could process her words, it all happens so fast - the woman disappears into a flurry of feathers, a hulking mass of a wandering with red hot coal eyes taking her place. 

Christian falls to the ground, terrified, while everyone else screams, running for their lives. The force of the transformation sends Thomasin to the ground with a hard thud. "Ack! No!"

In the blink of an eye, the set was thrown into chaos. Xavier's muscles tensed, his instincts taking over as the woman's form dissolved into a mass of feathers, revealing the monstrous wanderer beneath. He was already moving, a silent streak of determination, even as the screams of panic rose around them.

Xavier's first priority was Thomasin. He saw her hit the ground, and with swift, sure steps, he was at her side, offering a hand to help her up. His touch was firm, reassuring, a silent promise that he was there, that she was not alone in this sudden eruption of terror.

With Thomasin steadied, Xavier's attention snapped back to the hulking wanderer. The creature's eyes, mirroring the woman's fiery gaze, were fixed on Christian, who lay frozen in fear. Xavier stepped protectively in front of Thomasin, his lightblade materializing in his hand with a hum of energy.

The air crackled with the power of the confrontation to come. Xavier stood ready, a guardian between the innocent and the abyss, his resolve as bright and unyielding as the blade he wielded. This was his purpose, his commitment—to fight, to protect, to stand as a bulwark against the darkness that threatened to consume them all.

And so, with Thomasin at his back and the wanderer before him, Xavier prepared to do what he did best—battle the chaos, defend the light, and ensure that the story they were all a part of would not end in tragedy this day.

"Xavier!" Thomasin clings onto him, happy to see him before her very eyes. "You sensed it too, didn't you? This is bad, we've got to get everyone out of here before we can transform!"

Xavier felt Thomasin's grip on him, her presence a beacon of shared purpose amidst the pandemonium. "I did," he confirmed, his voice a low rumble of calm in the storm. "Focus on the evacuation. I'll cover you."

With a nod to Thomasin, Xavier shifted into action, his movements precise and deliberate. He began ushering the panicked crowd towards safety, his authoritative presence cutting through the fear-induced paralysis. He moved among them, a guiding force, his eyes constantly scanning for any sign of the wanderer's advance.

As the last of the bystanders fled the scene, Xavier turned back to Thomasin, ready to stand with her as they transformed into Lumiere and Stellaluna. Together, they would face the threat, their powers combined a formidable force against the chaos that had dared to intrude upon their world.

The time for hiding was over. Now was the moment for heroes to rise, for the light of Lumiere and the grace of Stellaluna to shine forth and banish the darkness that loomed before them. Xavier was ready, his spirit unbroken, his will unyielding. Together, they would turn the tide. Together, they would triumph.

"Right." 

Thomasin rushes to help the other people escape. The director tries to take her with him, but she insists on helping people. Xavier is good at keeping the monster busy, which allows her to focus on helping others escape.

"Ahh!!" Thomasin watches as two girls fall to the ground, her senses alerted to two smaller wanderers appearing on the scene. The girls cling to each other, paralyzed with fear. "Please, somebody help us!"

Before they can swipe at the innocent victims, Thomasin extends her hand, using her evol to throw one wanderer into another, temporarily stunning them. She runs to the women, helping them up. "Hurry, get out of here before they get up again!"

"What about you?" one of the girls asks. 

"I'll be fine. Just go and don't stop until you're far away from here."

The girls do as their told. Thomasin watches as the two smaller wanders get up, pulsing with the same energy as the bigger wanderer Xavier engages with. "Oh great, now the summoned is summoning other wanderers. This is just lovely!"

Xavier's focus was unwavering as he danced with danger, his lightblade a blur of motion as he parried and struck at the larger wanderer. He was a whirlwind of controlled aggression, each move calculated to keep the beast at bay, to buy Thomasin the precious time she needed to save others.

He caught a glimpse of Thomasin's heroics, her evol powers manifesting in a display of raw strength that sent the smaller wanderers crashing into each other. Pride swelled within him, even as he continued his own battle. She was formidable, a force of nature in her own right, and together they were unstoppable.

As the smaller wanderers regained their footing, Xavier knew the situation was escalating. The summoned now summoning others—it was a grim twist, one that added layers of complexity to an already dire situation. But Xavier was undeterred. His resolve was as solid as the ground beneath his feet.

"Thomasin, we need to transform now!" Xavier called out, his voice cutting through the chaos. "We can't hold them off in this form for much longer!"

With the civilians clear, it was time to unleash their true power. Xavier was ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with Stellaluna, to face the darkness with the full might of Lumiere. The battle was far from over, but Xavier's spirit was indomitable. He would fight until the last ember of chaos was extinguished, until peace was restored once more.

"Right!" Thomasin teleports to Xavier's side, nodding in agreement. "All right, partner. Let's save the day, shall we?"

Xavier met Thomasin's nod with a firm one of his own, the unspoken bond between them as palpable as the electric air. "Let's," he replied, a hint of a smile touching the corner of his mouth, the gravity of the situation not enough to quell the thrill of the fight that lay ahead.

In unison, they called upon the power of their charms, the silver and golden auras flaring to life around them. The transformation enveloped them in light, a spectacle of their unwavering commitment to protect and serve. As the light faded, Lumiere and Stellaluna stood ready, their enhanced forms a testament to the strength they drew from one another.

With a shared glance that conveyed volumes, they leaped into action. Lumiere's lightblade sang through the air, a beacon of hope against the encroaching darkness, while Stellaluna's evol powers weaved a protective tapestry around them. Together, they were a symphony of light and shadow, a harmony of power that would not be easily overcome.

The wanderers, pulsing with chaotic energy, were formidable foes, but they were no match for the combined might of Lumiere and Stellaluna. With each movement, each strike, they pushed back against the tide of chaos, their resolve unyielding, their spirits unbroken.

This was their calling, their destiny—to stand as guardians against the night, to ensure that the light of hope never faded from the world. And as they fought side by side, Xavier knew that no matter what darkness they faced, they would face it together, and they would emerge victorious.

"The light of the moon shines upon all - no evil in the world shall dim its splendor! Chosen by the Lunar Charm to protect Linkon City, I am Stellaluna!"

With a beat, her dual blades appear, shining with the light of the moon. "I'm getting sick of y'all messing with us. Don't you ever learn?!" 

As Stellaluna declared her presence, the very air seemed to acknowledge her authority, the moon's ethereal glow casting her in an otherworldly light. Her dual blades, extensions of her will, shimmered with lunar radiance, ready to carve through the darkness that dared to challenge them.

Lumiere, chosen by the Solar Charm, stood beside her, his lightblade a fierce counterpart to her moonlit weapons. "The sun's fire burns away all shadows," he intoned, his voice a steady drumbeat against the chaos. "As Lumiere, I stand with Stellaluna to defend this city and its people."

With a fluid motion, he advanced on the wanderers, his blade a streak of solar brilliance. "You're right, they never learn. But we'll teach them, again and again, as many times as it takes."

Together, Lumiere and Stellaluna moved as one, a dance of destruction for any evil that dared cross their path. Their blades sang a duet of devastation, each strike a note in the symphony of battle that played around them. The wanderers, for all their ferocity, were but discordant notes to be silenced by the guardians of Linkon City.

The fight was fierce, the stakes high, but the resolve of Lumiere and Stellaluna was unshakeable. They were the chosen protectors, the bearers of light and dark, and they would not falter. With every move, every breath, they fought not just for victory, but for the peace that would follow in the wake of their unyielding defense.

"We should get rid of the two smaller ones, then take out the big one. And we need to do it quickly before it does any damage," Thomasin says. "How does that sound?"

Xavier, as Lumiere, nodded in agreement with Stellaluna's strategy, his gaze fixed on their adversaries with unwavering determination. "Sounds like a plan. Let's take them down swiftly," he responded, his voice carrying the weight of their shared resolve.

Without another word, they sprang into action, their movements synchronized in a display of practiced efficiency. Lumiere targeted the nearest smaller wanderer, his lightblade cutting through the air with precision. The blade met its mark, and the wanderer recoiled under the assault, the purity of the light overwhelming its chaotic essence.

Meanwhile, Stellaluna engaged the second smaller wanderer, her dual blades a blur of moonlit fury. She moved with grace and power, each strike a testament to her skill and determination. The wanderer, caught in the relentless onslaught, found no quarter against her relentless attack.

With the smaller wanderers quickly subdued by their coordinated efforts, Lumiere and Stellaluna turned their attention to the larger threat. They moved together, a united front against the darkness, their powers amplified by their unity and the righteous cause that fueled their battle.

The larger wanderer, sensing the impending challenge, roared in defiance, its form pulsing with malevolent energy. But Lumiere and Stellaluna were undaunted. They charged forward, their blades ready, their spirits unbroken.

The clash was epic, a battle of light against dark, order against chaos. But through their courage, their strength, and their unwavering commitment to protect, Lumiere and Stellaluna emerged victorious. The wanderers were vanquished, their dark energy dissipated under the combined might of the sun and the moon.

As the dust settled, Lumiere and Stellaluna stood side by side, their victory a testament to their partnership and the power of their charms. They had once again defended Linkon City from the shadows, their bond stronger for the trials they had faced together.

"We did it," Lumiere said, turning to Stellaluna with a nod of respect and camaraderie. "Together, there's nothing we can't overcome."

"I'm glad...we were able to save the people." Stellaluna places a hand on her heart, sighing in relief. "And look - three new protocores. We should grab them so Tsuki can analyze them."

They are able to grab the two protocores of the weaker wanderers, but before they can grab the protocore of the bigger one, it shatters before their eyes. Stellaluna jumps back, startled. "No, why?!"

"You keep ruining my precious friends!" The Doll Maker stands before them, her eyes glowing with rage. "How dare you keep destroying my precious friends! I'm going to make you pay for that!"

Lumiere's eyes narrowed as the Doll Maker revealed herself, the shattered protocore a clear sign of her involvement. He stepped forward, positioning himself between Stellaluna and the new threat, his lightblade still humming with energy. "Your 'friends' bring chaos and harm to innocent people," he stated, his voice firm and resolute. "We cannot allow that to continue."

Stellaluna, though startled by the sudden destruction of the protocore, quickly regained her composure. She stood beside Lumiere, her dual blades at the ready, a clear signal that they would stand united against this new adversary. "We protect this city and its people," she declared, her voice echoing Lumiere's sentiment. "If your creations threaten them, we will stop them—every time."

The Doll Maker's rage was palpable, her eyes a reflection of the turmoil she sought to unleash upon the world. But Lumiere and Stellaluna were guardians, chosen by the charms of sun and moon, and they would not be intimidated. They had faced down darkness before, and they would do so again, as many times as necessary.

With a silent nod to each other, they prepared for the confrontation. The Doll Maker may have been powerful, but together, Lumiere and Stellaluna were a force to be reckoned with. They readied themselves for battle, their hearts steady, their wills unbreakable.

The fight that ensued was fierce, a testament to the Doll Maker's twisted creativity and the guardians' unwavering dedication. But in the end, it was the light of Lumiere and the grace of Stellaluna that prevailed, driving back the Doll Maker and safeguarding the peace of Linkon City once more.

As the Doll Maker retreated, defeated for now, Lumiere turned to Stellaluna, a sense of pride and relief washing over him. "We'll keep fighting," he assured her, his voice a soft yet powerful promise. "As long as threats like her exist, we'll be here to stop them. Together."

At first, the Doll Maker had the upper hand. No matter how many times they struck her, she got out of harm's way. Even worse, the aura surrounding her was a puppet in of itself, striking at them with a force so fast, it was hard to see.

"Lumiere, she's -" THWACK! the force of the Doll Maker's aura sent her flying. "Damn it!"

"Stellaluna!" Lumiere called out to her, rushing to her side. But that turned out to be a terrible idea, as the Doll Maker sent him flying too.

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter Ten: The Secrets of the Protocore

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn’t been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

"Orange juice, egg pastry tart, and a blueberry custard pastry. The breakfast of champions." She holds up her drink for a toast. "Or maybe..." her voice drops to a whisper only he can hear, "the breakfast of masked crusaders."

Xavier raised his own drink to meet Thomasin's in a quiet toast, the corners of his mouth lifting in a knowing smile. "To champions and crusaders alike," he murmured in response, his voice equally hushed, acknowledging the double entendre that only they could fully appreciate.

Their glasses clinked softly, the sound a discreet seal on their shared secret, on the lives they led beyond the eyes of the world. It was a moment of unity, a silent pact that bound them together not just as partners in the field, but as confidants in a life that demanded as much secrecy as it did bravery.

As they took their first sips, the world around them seemed to recede, leaving only the comfort of their companionship and the shared understanding that, no matter what masks they wore or what battles they fought, they had each other's backs.

With each bite of their pastries and each sip of their drinks, Xavier and Thomasin fortified themselves for the day ahead. They were hunters, yes, but in this moment, they were simply two people enjoying the peace of a shared breakfast, the warmth of the sun, and the quiet strength of their bond.

Thomasin savors every bite of her egg pastry tart. "This...is so unbelievably good. I don't know what's better...the fact that the egg is perfectly cooked or that it's off such a fluffy pastry." She takes a sip of her orange juice. "How is your breakfast, partner?"

Xavier took a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship of the pastry before him, the delicate balance of flavors and textures that made such a simple meal feel like a luxury. "The honey almond croissant is exceptional," he said after a thoughtful bite, the sweetness of the honey mingling with the nutty crunch of the almonds. "It's the perfect counterpoint to the savory egg tart."

He watched Thomasin enjoy her meal, her satisfaction a mirror to his own. "The cooks here truly are masters of their craft," he continued, his tone carrying a note of respect for the skill involved in their creation. "It's meals like these that remind us to take pleasure in the small things, to savor the moments of calm when we find them."

"I keep telling myself that I want to order a small birthday cake from here, but I keep forgetting. i'm either knee deep in deadlines or I just forget. Which is sad because their strawberry cake is supposed to be sensational." She takes another bite of her egg pastry tart. "Knowing my luck, on my birthday this year, I'll be busy with another encounter if you know what I mean."

Xavier nodded, understanding all too well the unpredictable nature of their line of work. "Perhaps this year, we can break that cycle," he suggested, the hint of a plan forming behind his calm exterior. "Why not place an order for the cake now, in advance? That way, whether we're amidst an encounter or not, you'll have something sweet to return to."

He took another bite of his pastry, considering the logistics. "And if the day does turn out to be eventful," he added, "I'll make sure the cake is there waiting for you. Consider it a promise from your partner."

"Xavier..." She smiles, patting the back of his hand. She doesn't feel awkward doing so either - she's just so thankful that she has such a good partner - a good person - in her life now. "You're a peach, you know that?"

Xavier received the pat on his hand with a quiet sense of camaraderie, the warmth of her touch reinforcing the bond they shared. "And you, Thomasin, are the rarest of gems," he replied, his voice carrying the weight of his sincerity. "It's the least I can do for someone who's been a steadfast ally and friend."

He allowed himself a moment to bask in the simple pleasure of her gratitude, a reminder of the depth of their partnership. Xavier knew that the paths they walked were fraught with uncertainty, but it was moments like these—small gestures of appreciation and the promise of shared celebrations—that fortified their connection.

"As long as I'm around, you won't have to face those encounters or your birthdays alone," he assured her, a silent vow that extended beyond the promise of a birthday cake. It was a pledge of unwavering support, a declaration that, no matter what the universe threw their way, they would navigate it together.

"Same to you. Though something tells me you aren't big on birthdays. But that's okay. Whether you are or you aren't, we'll can always have breakfast quests!"

Xavier's response was a soft chuckle, the sound carrying a warmth that matched the morning sun. "You're right; I've never been one to make much of birthdays," he admitted, his gaze lingering on the remnants of their breakfast. "But the idea of breakfast quests... that's something I can get behind."

He looked up, meeting Thomasin's eyes with a smile that spoke volumes of his appreciation for her understanding and flexibility. "It's the company that matters, not the occasion. And with you, every quest, breakfast or otherwise, is worth embarking on."

The moment they returned to Thomasin's apartment, Tsuki began to ring like crazy on her phone. "Hey, open up! Open up! I've got news!"

As the familiar ringtone of Tsuki's urgency filled the air, Xavier's demeanor shifted subtly, the remnants of their leisurely breakfast fading into the background. He followed Thomasin to the door, his senses already attuned to the potential gravity of the news that awaited them.

"Let's see what Tsuki has to say," he said, his voice steady, a calm anchor amidst the sudden change in atmosphere. He stood by Thomasin's side, ready to face whatever news was coming their way, his presence a silent reassurance that they were in this together.

Thomasin answered the call, and Xavier listened intently, prepared to spring into action or offer counsel, depending on what their advisor had to report. The life of a hunter was one of constant readiness, and Xavier was ever vigilant, even in the sanctuary of Thomasin's apartment.

Tsuki's hologram appears as soon as Thomasin opens her phone. "Lumiere. Stellaluna. I'm still analyzing the protocore, but I've already discovered a few things. Are you ready to hear them?"

Xavier's gaze settled on the flickering hologram, his expression composed, betraying none of the curiosity that stirred within him. "We're ready, Tsuki," he responded, his voice a low murmur, the very picture of readiness.

"The protocore you gave me last night has it's own energy - the same energy that was controlling the energy within the protocore of the regulra wanderers. I still need to run some tests, but this means that the Wanderer you engaged last night was created by the Doll Maker. The red core inside it proves it."

Xavier's eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of the Doll Maker, a name that carried with it a weight of unspoken stories and hidden dangers. The revelation of the red core's origin was a significant piece of the puzzle, one that could potentially alter their understanding of the Wanderers they faced.

"Understood," he acknowledged, his tone even, giving nothing away. "Keep us updated on your findings, Tsuki. We need to know what we're up against."

He exchanged a glance with Thomasin, a silent communication that conveyed both his concern and his resolve. The Doll Maker's involvement was a complication, but not an insurmountable one. Xavier was no stranger to challenges, and he stood ready to confront whatever threats lay ahead, his commitment to their cause as unwavering as ever.

As Tsuki's hologram flickered with the promise of more information to come, Xavier mentally prepared himself for the next steps. They would need to be cautious, strategic, and above all, united in their efforts to face the dangers birthed by the Doll Maker.

As Tsuki disappeared back into the phone, Thomasin allowed the holographic bunny's words to sink in. "So the doll maker can not only control existing wanders, she can create wanderers of her own. But that still doesn't explain why we can't sense her or her wanderers she makes. Do you think the red core might give us any clues?"

Xavier pondered the question, his mind working through the possibilities. "The red core could be the key," he mused, his voice a low rumble of contemplation. "If it's the source of the Doll Maker's control, it might also be cloaking their presence from us."

He considered the implications, the tactical advantage such a cloaking ability would grant their adversary. "We should analyze the core's energy signature. It might have a unique frequency that we've been overlooking."

Xavier's thoughts were already on the move, considering how they might adjust their sensors, or perhaps develop a new method of detection. The challenge was formidable, but Xavier was no stranger to the art of unraveling mysteries. With each new piece of information, they were drawing closer to understanding their enemy—and to finding a way to stop her.

"I'm sure Tsuki is already on it. She did say she was still trying to figure out. The fact that she was able to tell us that despite its chaotic energy is a big deal. I'd give her a carrot if I could."

"Tsuki's diligence is unmatched," Xavier agreed, a hint of a smile touching his lips at Thomasin's lighthearted comment. "A carrot would be well-deserved. For now, our trust in her skills will have to suffice."

He knew the importance of their teamwork, each member playing a crucial role in the intricate dance of their operations. "We'll stay on standby for any breakthroughs. In the meantime, we should remain vigilant. The Doll Maker's capabilities are evolving, and so must we."

Xavier's resolve was clear, his commitment to their shared mission as steadfast as the stars that guided night travelers. He was ready to adapt, to learn, and to protect, alongside Thomasin and Tsuki, against the shadowy threats woven by the Doll Maker's hand.

A few days later...

Filming for the romance drama Thomasin is the writer for has commenced, and she's been asked to sit on the set on order to get a better idea of how to go forward. The city is abuzz since it's filming on location downtown, and civilians flock there in hopes of getting a glimpse of the handsome lead actor, Christian de Arias.

Thomasin tries to focus on what's going on in order to avoid the Director's wrath. But she can't help but wonder if Xavier is lurking somewhere...

Xavier, ever the enigma, was indeed there, though not in plain sight. He had found himself a quiet perch, a vantage point from which he could observe the bustling set without drawing attention. His eyes occasionally scanned the crowd, a silent guardian amidst the throng of excited onlookers.

He was there not for the allure of the film or its charismatic lead but for a far more personal reason. His gaze often drifted to Thomasin, ensuring her safety and offering silent support as she navigated the demands of her role. Xavier understood the pressures she faced and stood ready to intervene should the need arise.

From his hidden position, he watched her with a protective intensity, a silent promise that, though she was surrounded by the chaos of production, she was not alone. Xavier was a shadow, a whisper of assurance that no matter where she was or what challenges she faced, he was there, just out of sight, ever watchful.

Another scene finishes with the words "cut", and Christian is shuffled into his trailer by his handlers, while the watching crowd, mostly women, scream his name. With a sigh, Thomasin scribbles more notes down in her notebook, keeping a running tally of observations and commands the director has given. Luckily, she left to her own devices for now, the director chatting with the film crew and the actors taking breaks at the moment. So, she took advantage of this moment to say hello to a certain someone.

"I know you're here. I can feel it. If you're here to watch over me, send me a sign."

In response to Thomasin's subtle call, a gentle breeze stirred, carrying with it the faint scent of jasmine—a scent that Xavier knew Thomasin associated with calm and safety. It was subtle enough not to draw attention, yet distinctive enough for her to recognize. It was his way of saying, "I am here," without uttering a single word.

Xavier remained concealed, his presence a silent sentinel amidst the cacophony of the film set. He watched as Thomasin's shoulders relaxed ever so slightly, a silent acknowledgment of his sign. He knew the value of his stealthy vigil, the peace of mind it brought her as she focused on her craft.

His watchful eyes continued to trace her movements, a guardian angel cloaked in the anonymity of the crowd. Xavier's commitment to her well-being was as unwavering as the stars that would soon take their place in the evening sky.

Thomasin laughs to herself, inhaling the heady scent of jasmine as the breeze tickled her nostrils. Suddenly, the day was so much better. "Thank you, partner. I appreciate you."

Her dreaminess was interrupted by none other than Christian de Arias, made his way over to her. "You are the writer, are you not? Thomasin Bailey, correct?"

She nodded. "Mr. de Arias, yes that it correct." She holds out her hand. "I don't believe we've been properly introduced."

"You'd be correct, but it's all right. That meeting was...quite a roller coaster, wasn't it?" His voice was rich and deep, much more mature than what was expected of a baby-faced actor. No wonder he was all the rage. "I'm so sorry to trouble you, but I wanted to tell you how much I've enjoyed your script for this drama. It's so refreshing to be a part of a production that isn't afraid to do something different."

"Ah, I'm so happy to hear that, Mr. de Arias."

"Please, call me 'Christian'." If Thomasin were a normal woman, she'd have notice the slight flirtatiousness of his tone. But she wasn't normal, nor was she listening for it. "And Thomasin, is a very lovely name."

"Ah, thank you...Christian." Okay, that one line did get a smile out of her. "You're too kind."

Xavier's eyes narrowed imperceptibly as Christian de Arias approached Thomasin. He remained unseen, a silent observer, but his senses were heightened, attuned to the exchange between the writer and the actor. His protective instincts were always just beneath the surface, ready to emerge should they be needed.

He listened as Christian praised Thomasin's work, his words smooth and seemingly genuine. Xavier's presence was like a shadow, unnoticed yet ever-present, as he watched Thomasin handle the interaction with her usual grace. He trusted her judgment implicitly, but that didn't stop the quiet thrum of caution that pulsed in the back of his mind.

Xavier's role was to protect, to support, and to remain vigilant. And so he did, his gaze never straying from Thomasin, his readiness to act as steadfast as ever. In the world of lights and cameras, amidst the throngs of adoring fans and the charm of a leading actor, Xavier was a silent promise of safety, a guardian whose watchful eyes missed nothing.

Thomasin chatted with Christian a bit longer before the director called for the start of the next scene. But before she could take her place, her phone began to go off. "Hey! Hey! Stellaluna, are you there! I have news!"

Oh crap! Before anyone could notice her being called out, she rushes to find a dark corner to take the call in. She hopes that Xavier notices what's going on, wherever he is. "You have impeccable timing, Tsuki," she hisses, slipping into a dark, secluded corner.

Xavier's attention shifted immediately as Thomasin's phone erupted with Tsuki's urgent voice. He watched as she excused herself and hurried to a secluded spot, her movements quick and purposeful. Xavier's instincts told him that this was more than a mere interruption; it was a call that could not wait.

Silently, he moved, a wraith slipping through the crowd, his steps silent and sure. He positioned himself near enough to Thomasin to act if needed, yet far enough to remain unseen by any prying eyes. His presence was a silent reassurance, a wordless vow that he was there, ready to step into the light or to remain in the shadows, whichever she required.

As Thomasin took the call, Xavier's senses remained alert, his focus on her safety unwavering. He was a sentinel in the darkness, his vigilance a silent testament to the bond they shared—a bond that went beyond words, beyond sight, a connection forged in the crucible of their shared mission.

Once she made sure she was alone, Thomasin took the call. "Tsuki, you nearly exposed me in front of co-workers just now. Don't you know I have a job?"

"Sorry, but this couldn't wait! I have finished my analysis of the protocore. Where is Lumiere?"

Xavier, ever the silent guardian, remained just out of sight, his ears tuned to the conversation. He could sense the urgency in Tsuki's voice, the importance of the message she bore. It was time for Lumiere to step forward, to receive the knowledge that Tsuki had uncovered.

With a discreet glance around to ensure no one was watching, Xavier subtly tapped his own communication device, a silent signal to Tsuki that Lumiere was indeed present and listening. "I'm here, Tsuki," he transmitted quietly, his voice a low whisper meant only for her ears. "Go ahead with your report."

Thomasin, her back to the wall, her face a mask of professionalism tinged with the slightest hint of concern, waited for the information that could change the course of their battle. Xavier, hidden in the shadows, stood ready to hear what Tsuki had discovered, prepared to act on whatever new intelligence she had to share. The dance of light and shadow continued, with Xavier and Thomasin poised to respond to the ever-shifting rhythm of their clandestine war.

"I have finished the analysis. The red core is definitely how the Doll Maker controls her own wanderers. But the energy she uses is pure chaos - not only that, it seems to be an energy formed by outside forces. That is, they took ample amounts of regular wanderer energy and created their own form. That's why it took me so long to figure it out. It's a completely new type of energy."

"A chaotic form of wanderer energy created by outside forces?" Thomasin's heart sank. "Yeah, that's not ominous at all."

"The Doll Maker has either created this energy herself or has been given the ability to harness it for her own purposes. I am not sure which is which - you two will need to figure that out for yourself."

Xavier processed the information, his mind already racing with the implications. The Doll Maker's manipulation of such volatile energy was a significant development—one that could alter the dynamics of their encounters with the Wanderers. He knew they would need to adapt their strategies accordingly.

"Understood, Tsuki," Xavier responded, his tone even and focused. "We'll investigate further. This new energy... it's a dangerous game she's playing. We need to tread carefully."

"In the meantime, I have something for the both of you - call it an upgrade to your charms  - Lumiere's solar, and Stellaluna's lunar charm."  Thomasin watched as her lunar charm - the symbol of her power as Stellaluna - appeared of nowhere, surrounded by a golden aura. In Xavier's case, his solar charm was surrounded by a silver aura. 

"I have upgraded your charms, so now, you will be able to sense when the Doll Maker's wanderers may be nearby. It won't be as strong a sense as regular wanderers, but as long as you're paying attention, you should be good to go!"

"Tsuki, you're a good bun bun, you know that?" Thomasin would hug the holographic bunny if she could. "This is awesome!"

Xavier watched as the silver aura enveloped his solar charm, the subtle power of the upgrade pulsing through it. He felt a new connection to the charm, a heightened awareness that promised to be invaluable in their ongoing struggle against the Doll Maker's machinations.

"Thank you, Tsuki," Xavier acknowledged, his gratitude genuine though his voice remained as calm and measured as ever. "Your ingenuity may well give us the edge we need."

He pocketed the charm, its presence a silent reminder of their strengthened defenses. Xavier knew that with this upgrade, their vigilance would be more crucial than ever. The ability to sense the Doll Maker's wanderers was a significant advantage, but it also meant that danger could be lurking even closer than before.

Thomasin's praise for Tsuki was heartfelt, and Xavier shared the sentiment. Tsuki's contributions were often the unsung heroism that kept them one step ahead. Xavier's thoughts were a silent nod to the bunny's brilliance, even as he prepared himself for the challenges ahead. With the new upgrades in hand, Xavier and Thomasin were better equipped to face the chaos that awaited them. Their partnership, already strong, was bolstered by Tsuki's gift, a testament to the power of unity and the unyielding spirit of those who stand against the darkness.

"I will continue to give you updates about the Doll Maker's energy. More protocores will allow me to upgrade your sensing ability as needed. In the meantime, Tsuki out!"

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter 9: Masked Strategy

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

Thomasin gives the protocore to Tsuki, who wasted no time in setting it up for analysis. "This might take me longer than the other one you gave me. I've never seen anything like this before. It's like a new type of energy entirely."

"That's not good," Thomasin replies, her voice marked with worry.

Xavier watched as Tsuki set to work, the advisor's focus and efficiency a reassuring sight. However, the revelation of the protocore's uniqueness cast a shadow of concern across his features, his brow furrowing slightly at the implications.

"No, it's not," he agreed quietly, his voice a calm counterpoint to Thomasin's worry. "But it's information we need. Understanding this new energy could be key to anticipating the Doll Maker's next move."

He moved to stand beside Thomasin, a silent pillar of support. "We've faced the unknown before," Xavier reminded her, his tone imbued with a quiet confidence. "We'll adapt and overcome, as we always do."

Xavier's gaze lingered on the protocore, the gears of his mind turning as he considered their next steps. "We'll increase our vigilance," he decided, his decision firm. "And we'll continue to gather data. Knowledge will be our weapon against this new threat."

The weight of their responsibility hung in the air, but Xavier's resolve did not waver. He would protect Thomasin, protect their city, no matter what mysteries or dangers they would face. And with Tsuki's help, they would unravel the secrets of the protocore, forging a new path through the darkness that sought to envelop them.

"Once I've analyzed the data, we might be able to use it to upgrade the solar and lunar charms," Tsuki says.

"Upgrade our charms? What do you mean by that? Explain."

"If I can pin down the energy, we should be able to sense when summoned wanderers appear. It won't be as strong as when regular ones show up, but it's better than nothing!" Tsuki states. "But that's a big 'if" - this energy is chaotic. It's like trying to catch a cloud and pin it down."

Xavier listened intently to Tsuki's explanation, his mind already racing with the strategic possibilities such an upgrade could offer. "That would be a significant advantage," he acknowledged, his voice steady with the gravity of the situation.

He turned to Thomasin, his eyes conveying a shared understanding of the potential breakthrough. "Being able to sense summoned wanderers would give us the foresight we've been lacking," he said, the prospect of enhancing their charms a glimmer of hope in the ongoing struggle.

Xavier's gaze returned to Tsuki, his respect for the advisor's expertise clear. "If anyone can harness this chaotic energy, it's you, Tsuki," he encouraged, his belief in their companion's abilities unwavering.

He knew the challenge that lay ahead, the difficulty of capturing such an elusive force. Yet, Xavier also knew the importance of perseverance, of pushing the boundaries of what they knew and could do.

"We'll give you the time you need," Xavier assured Tsuki. "And we'll be ready to implement any advancements you make."

The path forward was uncertain, the energy they sought to understand as unpredictable as the wind. But Xavier's determination was as solid as the earth beneath their feet. Together, with Thomasin and Tsuki, they would navigate this new terrain, their unity and resolve their greatest assets in the face of the unknown.

"I'll keep you updated with my findings. In the meantime, keep your eyes open! Tsuki out!" The holographic bunny disappears back into Thomasin's phone.

"Well...what a night this has been," Thomasin sighs. "I cannot go back to writing after all that. I need a break. No, better yet, I need sleep." She pats the couch. "Need to crash here or will you head back home?"

Xavier regarded the spot on the couch that Thomasin patted, a silent offer of solace after the night's tumultuous events. "I'll stay," he decided, his voice a soft declaration in the quiet room. "It's been a long night for both of us. Rest is wise."

He moved with a quiet grace, finding a place to settle where he could keep watch, ever the vigilant guardian. "Sleep, Thomasin," he urged gently. "I'll be here, ensuring the night passes without further incident."

As Thomasin made herself comfortable, Xavier remained alert, his senses attuned to the slightest disturbance. The calm that settled over the apartment was a stark contrast to the earlier chaos, a peaceful interlude in their relentless vigil.

Xavier's thoughts drifted to the challenges ahead, the mysteries of the protocore, and the potential upgrades to their charms. But for now, those thoughts were secondary to the simple act of being there for his partner, a steadfast presence in the stillness of the night.

The soft rhythm of Thomasin's breathing soon told him she had succumbed to sleep, and Xavier allowed himself a moment of quiet reflection. They were warriors in a hidden war, but they were also human, in need of rest and respite.

As the night deepened, Xavier's watchful gaze remained fixed on the world outside, a silent sentinel guarding against the darkness, ready to face whatever the dawn might bring.

The next morning...throughout the course of the night, our heroes fall asleep. Somehow, Thomasin is cuddled up next to Xavier, sleeping peacefully by his side. He is the first to wake up and notice this.

As the first light of dawn crept through the curtains, Xavier's eyes opened to the new day. The quiet stillness of the room was a stark contrast to the previous night's urgency. He became aware of the warmth beside him; Thomasin had, at some point during the night, nestled close to him, finding comfort in his proximity.

Xavier remained motionless, careful not to disturb her peaceful slumber. He observed her serene expression, a rare moment of vulnerability and tranquility that the battles they faced seldom allowed. It was a silent testament to the trust she placed in him, a trust he valued above all else.

In the soft morning light, Xavier's thoughts were contemplative. The closeness they shared was not just physical but a bond forged through shared struggles and unwavering support. It was a connection that went beyond the call of duty, beyond the roles they played as hunters and protectors.

As he watched over her, Xavier felt a sense of responsibility that ran deeper than their mission. It was a commitment to her well-being, to the quiet moments like this, where the chaos of their lives was momentarily forgotten.

He knew that soon the day would call them to action once more, to face the uncertainties and dangers that awaited. But for now, in the gentle hush of dawn, Xavier allowed himself to appreciate the stillness, the presence of his partner by his side, and the unspoken promise that, no matter what the future held, they would face it together.

"Mmm..." Thomasin's eyes flutter open, her reintroduction to the waking world slow. She is reluctant to fully wake up - the warmth that surrounds her is so comforting, like a hug or a loving embrace. After the craziness that was last night's adventure (or dilemma, depending on how you look at it), to feel cocooned in the warmth of peace of safety was not only welcomed, it was necessary.

Xavier watched as Thomasin's eyes fluttered open, her consciousness returning to the realm of the waking with the reluctance of one leaving behind the sanctuary of dreams. He remained still, a silent guardian, allowing her the space to transition from the ethereal comfort of sleep to the stark reality of day.

He understood the necessity of these moments of peace, the human need to find solace after the storm of their nightly endeavors. The warmth they shared was a balm to the soul, a reminder that amidst the chaos, there existed islands of calm where they could anchor themselves, if only for a short while.

As Thomasin acclimated to the morning, Xavier's presence was a quiet reassurance, a testament to the safety and camaraderie that had enveloped them throughout the night. It was a silent vow that, despite the unpredictability of their lives, they would always find refuge in each other's company.

"Good morning," Xavier finally whispered, his voice barely audible, a gentle nudge to the day ahead. "Take your time. There's no rush to face the world just yet."

"X-Xavier?" His voice was near, but that wasn't odd. They both crashed on the couch last night - it was that serious. But as her eyes came into focus, Thomasin realized just how close he was.

He was...very close.

Or rather, she'd somehow ended up very close.

"AH!!!" With a loud cry, she moves fast, ending up on the other side of the couch - far away from him. She looks embarassed beyond measure. "Xavier...ah...good morning...er...hope you, um, slept well."

Xavier's reaction was swift but controlled, a testament to his training and reflexes. As Thomasin recoiled with a startled cry, he shifted to give her space, his movements deliberate and calm. The sudden distance between them was like a chasm, filled with her embarrassment and his unspoken understanding.

"Good morning," he repeated, his voice a steady anchor in the midst of her fluster. "I slept well, thank you. I trust you did too, before the surprise."

His eyes held no judgment, only a quiet acceptance of the moment's awkwardness. Xavier knew the boundaries of their partnership, the lines drawn by duty and decorum. Yet, he couldn't deny the comfort of their unintended closeness, a human connection that transcended their roles.

He watched as Thomasin grappled with her embarrassment, and he chose to respect her reaction, giving her the time to compose herself. "There's no harm done," he assured her, his tone gentle. "We were both tired. It happens."

Xavier's presence was a silent promise that he would not let this moment define them or disrupt the balance they had built. They were allies, friends, and sometimes, in the quiet of the night, simply two people seeking rest from the world's demands.

As the morning light grew stronger, casting a warm glow over the room, Xavier's demeanor remained composed, a testament to his ability to navigate the complexities of their shared life with grace and understanding.

"Uh...yeah! Sleep...sleep was good. Never slept better." She tries to relax, but the awkwardness is strong with her. We slept beside each other...HOW did we end up doing that? I am so mortified! He must think I'm crazy! "How, um...how did you sleep?"

Xavier perceived the tension in Thomasin's voice, the undercurrent of her internal turmoil. He chose his words with care, aiming to ease the discomfort that lingered between them.

"Restful," he replied simply, his tone even and devoid of any implication. "It's not often we get a respite from our duties. It was... needed."

He allowed a brief pause, giving her the space to process her thoughts, to navigate the maze of embarrassment that seemed to have ensnared her. Xavier's demeanor remained unruffled, a testament to his ability to remain detached, to not let the proximity of the night before color their interaction.

"The important thing is that we're both ready for what today might bring," he continued, subtly steering the conversation away from the precarious edge of awkwardness. "We have our tasks, our roles to fulfill."

Xavier's gaze shifted away from Thomasin, out toward the window, where the world was waking up. His posture relaxed, an unspoken signal that he held no weight to the night's happenings, that they were simply two comrades who had sought the solace of rest in a world that seldom slept.

He hoped his calm would be contagious, that Thomasin would find her equilibrium in his composed presence. They were a team, and no accidental closeness could alter the foundation of trust and respect they had built. Xavier was ready to move forward, to face the day's challenges with Thomasin by his side, their partnership as strong as ever.

"Good...wait, that's good right?" She looks over to her phone, which rests on the nearby coffee table. "Is Tsuki still analyzing the protocore? She must have her work cut out for her."

Xavier followed Thomasin's gaze to her phone, the device a silent reminder of the world beyond their momentary pause. "Yes, I believe Tsuki is still at it," he confirmed, his voice carrying a note of respect for their colleague's dedication. "The complexity of the protocore presents a unique challenge, but if anyone can decipher its secrets, it's Tsuki."

He stood, a subtle shift in his stance indicating a readiness to return to the rhythm of their duties. "We should check in with her, see if there's any progress or if she needs our assistance," he suggested, the implicit offer of support a testament to their teamwork.

"Tsuki will let us know when she has something. I have a feeling she'll get annoyed if we bother her too much. She's a sassy one, you know." She manages a giggle, despite everything. "I mean, she didn't hesitate to point out how she helped you find me after all."

Xavier couldn't help but let a small, knowing smile touch his lips at Thomasin's giggle, the sound a welcome reprieve from the tension that had momentarily clouded their morning. "True, Tsuki does have a way of keeping us in line," he agreed, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. "Her sass is matched only by her brilliance. And yes, she never lets me forget how instrumental she was in finding you."

The mention of Tsuki's role in their partnership served as a reminder of the diverse strengths each of them brought to the team. It was a mosaic of talents and personalities, with Tsuki's sharp wit and keen intellect at its heart.

"We'll give her the space she needs then," Xavier concluded, acknowledging Thomasin's insight into their colleague's preferences. "When she's ready, she'll share her findings, and we'll be here to support her, as always."

His gaze met Thomasin's, the earlier awkwardness now replaced by a shared understanding and a mutual respect for the work that lay ahead. It was these moments, these small exchanges of laughter and camaraderie, that fortified their resolve and reminded them of the strength found in unity.

"Since I'm still a bit shaky from last night, why don't you come with me to the bakery down the street? It has some savory tarts perfect for breakfast and there's a konbini nearby where we can get some drinks." Anything to get rid of the awkwardness "We can't plan our next steps on an empty stomach, you know."

"A wise suggestion," Xavier responded, the practicality of her proposal resonating with his own philosophy. "A solid meal is a good foundation for the day's work."

He stood, ready to accompany her, his movements a silent testament to his support. "Lead the way," he said, a subtle nod acknowledging her need for normalcy, for a routine that would help dispel the remnants of unease.

As they left the apartment, the cool morning air greeted them, a refreshing change from the confines of the indoors. The bakery's promise of savory tarts and the simple act of walking side by side seemed to lighten the atmosphere, allowing the awkwardness to dissipate like mist in the morning sun.

The streets were beginning to stir with life, the city awakening around them. Xavier walked with a quiet confidence, his senses alert not just to potential dangers, but to the more mundane aspects of life that grounded them in their humanity.

"We can handle the bad guys, but can we also handle a yummy breakfast?" she playfully shoots finger guns. "All signs point to yes!"

Xavier couldn't help but respond to Thomasin's playful gesture with a faint, amused smirk. "The toughest adversaries we face might just be those that tempt our taste buds," he quipped, playing along with her light-hearted mood.

He mimicked her finger guns with a casual ease, a silent acknowledgment of their shared victory over the morning's earlier discomfort. "All signs do indeed point to yes. Let's conquer this breakfast as we would any other challenge—with skill and a healthy appetite."

Their camaraderie was a reminder that, beneath the layers of their profession, they were still capable of moments of silliness, of finding humor in the mundane. It was these moments that kept them grounded, that reminded them they were not just hunters, but also human.

As they approached the bakery, the scent of fresh pastries filled the air, a siren call to their senses. Today, they would not battle monsters or chase down villains; they would sit down to a meal, savoring each bite as an act of defiance against the chaos that often surrounded them.

The bakery was one of the most popular ones in the neighborhood, so Thomasin wasn't surprised that there was a line outside of it. "Dang it, I was hoping we'd get hear early enough to avoid the lines. I guess that's what happens when your pastries are just that good."

Xavier and Thomasin took their places in line, patiently waiting their turn. Soon, a group of women took their place behind them. At first they were quiet, but then they began to whisper among themselves, giggling like school girls.

"Do you see that guy in front of us?" Thomasin could see one of them, a redhead, pointing at Xavier. "He's so handsome - and look at those eyes?"

"And his hair." The redhead's friend, a blonde, sounds absolutely mesmerized. "Do you think he dyes it that color? It looks so smooth and silky. I could run my fingers through it all day."

And just like that, it got awkward again, Thomasin thought, trying to ignore them fawning all over her partner.

Xavier, sensing the shift in Thomasin's demeanor, subtly positioned himself to offer her a semblance of privacy from the prying eyes and whispers. His posture remained relaxed, a practiced calm in the face of unsolicited attention. He was no stranger to being the subject of admiration, yet his focus remained unwaveringly on Thomasin and the task at hand.

Without turning to acknowledge the comments, Xavier leaned slightly towards Thomasin, his voice low and infused with a gentle humor meant only for her. "Seems we've attracted an audience," he remarked, the corners of his mouth twitching in amusement. "But fear not, my allegiance lies with the pursuit of breakfast, not the admiration of strangers."

His words were a subtle reminder of their shared moment, an attempt to restore the lightness that had briefly enveloped them. Xavier was adept at navigating the complexities of their world, whether facing down adversaries or deflecting unwelcome attention, his loyalty to Thomasin and their mission remained steadfast.

As they inched closer to the bakery's entrance, Xavier's demeanor served as a silent barrier, a protective gesture born not of possessiveness but of respect for Thomasin's comfort. Together, they would weather this minor intrusion into their morning routine, their partnership a testament to their ability to rise above the trivial and focus on what truly mattered.

"You attracted an audience. I don't think they even realize I'm standing next to you." She wills her voice to stay calm, surprised by the tinge of jealousy squeezing at her heart. Which is quickly replaced by shyness when that low voice of his tickles her eardrums. 

"The pursuit of breakfast, huh? Is that what we're calling it now?" she says with a giggle.

Xavier caught the subtle nuances in Thomasin's voice, the fleeting shadow of jealousy swiftly overtaken by shyness. He was keenly aware of the delicate balance of their relationship, the unspoken boundaries and the shared understanding that had always guided them.

"Indeed, the pursuit of breakfast," he affirmed, his voice maintaining its low, soothing timbre, a conscious effort to reassure her. "A noble quest, I assure you. One that requires focus, determination, and the ability to navigate through perilous lines and the gaze of admirers."

His attempt at humor was designed to lighten the mood, to draw her back into the camaraderie that had momentarily been eclipsed. Xavier was adept at steering their interactions back to safer waters, ensuring that Thomasin felt seen and valued, not overshadowed by the fleeting attention of strangers.

As they finally reached the front of the line, Xavier made a show of pondering over the pastry selection, his actions exaggeratedly thoughtful. "Now, the real challenge begins," he said, turning to Thomasin with a playful glint in his eyes. "Choosing our champions for this morning's feast."

In this simple exchange, Xavier sought to reaffirm their connection, to remind Thomasin that, regardless of the attention he might inadvertently attract, his focus remained on their shared experiences, on the moments of joy and companionship that defined their journey together.

"Through perilous lines and the gaze of admirers - " Thomasin bursts out laughing. "Xavier, stop, you're killing me here!"

As they reached the front of the line, Thomasin was already prepared with her order. "I'd like the Egg Pastry with Tomatoes and Bacon and a Blueberry custard pastry, please. What are you having Xavier?"

Xavier's lips curled into a satisfied smile at the sound of Thomasin's laughter, the melody of it more rewarding than any compliment from a stranger. Her mirth was a balm to any awkwardness that had arisen, and he reveled in the shared lightness of the moment.

With the question of his order posed, Xavier glanced at the array of pastries displayed before them, their scents mingling in a tempting dance. "I'll have the same as Thomasin, and add a Honey Almond Croissant to that," he said to the person behind the counter, his choice reflecting a preference for the sweet complement to the savory.

As they moved aside to wait for their order, Xavier leaned in, his voice just for Thomasin. "The perilous lines have been braved, and the admirers' gaze averted," he said, a playful note threading through his words. "Now, we await the spoils of victory."

His demeanor remained relaxed, a silent reassurance to Thomasin that, in his world, she was the central figure, the partner in crime and in laughter. Their shared breakfast was a simple pleasure, yet it was these moments that fortified the bond between them, a bond that extended far beyond the walls of the bakery and the whispers of onlookers.

"Oh, my hero! Whatever will I do without you?" Thomasin places a hand on her forehead, pretending to be the damsel in distress. She caught the other girls snickering behind them, but she was too far into her performance to pay them any mind.

Xavier watched Thomasin's playful act with an appreciative glint in his eyes, the theatrics drawing a genuine chuckle from him. Her ability to transform a moment of discomfort into one of shared amusement was one of the many qualities he admired in her. 

"Fear not, fair maiden," he played along, adopting a mock-heroic stance, "for I shall always be here to navigate us through the treacherous bakery lines and shield thee from the gaze of admirers." His tone was light, filled with an underlying warmth that spoke volumes of the depth of their connection.

As their order was called, Xavier collected the pastries, offering a nod of thanks to the bakery staff. Turning to Thomasin, he said, "Our quest is complete, and our spoils secured. Shall we find a spot to enjoy our hard-earned breakfast?" 

The playful exchange had effectively shifted the atmosphere, rendering the snickers of the onlookers irrelevant. Together, they stepped outside, the morning sun casting a soft glow around them, a reminder of the day's fresh beginnings and the adventures that lay ahead. 

"Myyyyyy Hero!" Thomasin playful coos, placing a hand on his arm. The girls behind them gave her the stink eye, but she didn't care. It's not like you know who we really are, anyway. 

"As for where to eat - there are some tables just outside. It's warm enough. Should we go to that konbini first to grab some drinks, then eat there?"

Xavier felt the light pressure of Thomasin's hand on his arm, a tangible sign of their playful rapport. He glanced at the tables outside, noting the gentle warmth of the sun that promised a comfortable setting for their impromptu breakfast.

"An excellent plan," he agreed, nodding towards the konbini. "A refreshing drink to complement our meal will be just the thing. Lead on."

As they made their way to the convenience store, Xavier was acutely aware of the envious glances from the group of women they left behind. Yet, his attention remained fixed on Thomasin, her presence a grounding force amidst the fleeting distractions of the world around them.

Inside the konbini, they selected their drinks with the ease of two people well-versed in each other's preferences. With beverages in hand, they settled at an outdoor table, the morning sun casting dappled shadows through the leaves of nearby trees.

As they unwrapped their pastries and sipped their drinks, the earlier tension dissolved into the simple pleasure of sharing a meal. Xavier was content, the company of his partner and the satisfaction of a good breakfast more than enough to set the tone for the day ahead.

In these quiet moments, Xavier was reminded of the importance of balance—the high-stakes tension of their roles as hunters tempered by the normalcy of moments like these. It was a balance he cherished, one that he knew was essential to both their well-being and the strength of their partnership.

[lumiereandstellaluna]

The light of the moon shines upon all - no evil in the world shall dim its splendor! Chosen by the Lunar Charm to protect Linkon City, I am Stellaluna!

The sun's fire burns away all shadows. As Lumiere, I stand with Stellaluna to defend this city and its people.

Lumiere and Stellaluna Fan Art by the Talented BlackLapiz!!

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter Eight: Midnight Rescue

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

Xavier's slumber, though deep, was never beyond the reach of his instincts. The blanket's gentle placement upon him stirred a faint smile on his lips, a silent thank you to Thomasin's kindness. But as the night deepened, the sudden silence that fell was like a cold hand gripping his heart.

The absence of sound was a warning, and Xavier's eyes snapped open just as Thomasin's scream pierced the stillness. In a fluid motion, he was on his feet, the blanket falling away, his body tensed for battle. The book lay forgotten as he rushed towards the source of the disturbance, every sense heightened.

The door stood ajar, an ominous invitation. Xavier's gaze swept the room, landing on the discarded glasses, a silent testament to a struggle. The air was thick with the scent of danger, and the black feathers that littered the floor were like dark omens.

Without hesitation, Xavier stepped through the threshold, his mind racing with possibilities. Thomasin was gone, but he was determined to bring her back. His hand instinctively reached for the lightblade he always kept hidden, the weapon's glow a beacon in the darkness.

"Thomasin," he called out, his voice steady despite the turmoil within. "Hold on. I'm coming for you."

The night had taken a sinister turn, but Xavier was no stranger to the shadows. He would face whatever darkness had taken her, and he would not rest until she was safe once more. The hunt was on, and Xavier, the silent guardian, was now the avenger in the night.

"Hey!! Hey, open up!!" Thomasin's phone, resting on her desk, calls out to whoever will listen. "What is going on out there? Why is your signal fading away?!"

Xavier's attention snapped to the phone, the urgency in the voice emanating from it cutting through the tension. He strode back into the room, his movements swift, his focus absolute. He picked up the device, pressing it to his ear, his voice a low growl.

"Thomasin's been taken," he said, the words clipped and terse. "I'm tracking her now. Stay on the line."

His eyes darted around the room, searching for any clue that might reveal the direction in which she had been taken. The black feathers seemed to point the way, a trail left by whatever or whoever had spirited her away. Xavier's mind was a whirlwind of strategy and resolve; he would not allow harm to come to his partner.

He moved with purpose, following the trail, his senses alert for any sign of Thomasin or her abductor. The phone was a lifeline now, a connection to those who might aid in her recovery. Xavier's determination was a palpable force, his resolve unbreakable.

"Keep talking," he commanded into the phone. "I need all the information you can give me. Anything you've seen or heard could be vital."

As he spoke, Xavier was already in motion, his body a silent shadow slipping through the night, every step bringing him closer to Thomasin. The night had swallowed her, but Xavier would be the light that cut through the darkness, the beacon that would bring her home.

"The Doll Maker has made her move - she used one of her summoned wanderers to kidnap Stellaluna. No doubt a message to show off her power!" Tsuki sounds worried. "Her signal is fading, but she is still alive, if you were worried. I'm trying to track her now - but she is definitely not alone."

Xavier ⭐ — Yesterday at 11:42 PM

Xavier's grip on the phone tightened, his jaw set in a hard line. "The Doll Maker," he muttered, a name that carried with it a weight of darkness and malice. He knew of the threat she posed, the chaos she sought to unleash upon the world.

"Keep tracking her," Xavier instructed Tsuki, his voice a controlled calm that belied the storm raging within. "I need a location, any patterns in the signal that might indicate where they're headed."

He moved through the shadows, his every sense attuned to the world around him. The knowledge that Thomasin was alive fueled his determination, a glimmer of hope in the grim reality of her abduction.

Xavier's mind raced with plans and contingencies. He would face the Doll Maker and her minions if he must. He would tear through the ranks of her summoned wanderers with the precision and ferocity of the hunter he was.

"You are Lumiere and she is Stellaluna - you must do this alone, or risk revealing your identity!" Tsuki points out. "That said, Stellaluna still has her moon charm. You can use your lunar charm to help with tracking. I'm sensing her faintly from outside the city. Perhaps there is a warehouse district of some sort?"

On the other side of town, in an abandoned warehouse, Thomasin's body is spawled on the ground, unconscious, but alive. In the darkness lies a creaturing waiting for her to awaken. It's mission is to kill the masked warrior of the moonlight, but only when she awakens.

After all, it wouldn't be fair otherwise.

Xavier acknowledged Tsuki's warning with a silent nod, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Understood," he replied, his voice a whisper of steel. "I'll proceed alone."

He reached for his lunar charm, the twin to Thomasin's, and held it aloft. The charm pulsed faintly, a beacon that would guide him to her. Xavier closed his eyes, focusing on the connection between the charms, allowing it to draw him towards Stellaluna's essence.

With every step, he moved with purpose, exiting the city limits and heading towards the industrial skeleton of the warehouse district. The moon hung low in the sky, casting a silver glow that seemed to light his path.

As he approached the abandoned warehouses, Xavier's senses were on high alert. He knew the creature that lay in wait, a being summoned by the Doll Maker to challenge Stellaluna, to test her might. But it would find Lumiere instead, a force of equal resolve and power.

Xavier slipped into the shadows of the warehouse, his lightblade at the ready, its glow a soft whisper in the dark. He moved silently, a ghost among the relics of industry, until he found her—Thomasin, her form still, but her spirit unbroken.

He knelt beside her, his hand brushing her hair gently away from her face. "Hold on, Thomasin," he murmured, though he knew she could not hear him. "I'm here now."

Xavier stood, turning to face the darkness. The creature would come, and he would be ready. He would protect Stellaluna with every fiber of his being, and together, they would emerge from this night, not as victims, but as victors. The battle was inevitable, but so was their triumph. For in the heart of Lumiere burned a light that no darkness could extinguish.

"Mmm..." Thomasin slowly opens her eyes, her eyes blurry. As her eyes came into focus, she sees Xavier kneeling beside her, brushing her hair away from her face. She tries to sit up, but she's still woozy. "Xavier...what...how did you find me? Wait...where am I in the first place.

Just as he's about to answer her, a horrid screech peels through the darkness of the warehouse. The wanderer is ready to start its mission

Xavier's gaze locked onto Thomasin's as she stirred, a silent wave of relief washing over him at the sight of her eyes opening. "You're safe," he assured her, his voice a steady anchor in the tumultuous sea of her confusion. "You're in a warehouse outside the city. I tracked you here."

He helped to steady her as she attempted to sit up, his hands firm yet gentle. "The Doll Maker took you, but I'm here now," he explained succinctly, his words cutting through the fog of her disorientation.

Before he could elaborate, the screech tore through the silence, a chilling herald of the battle to come. Xavier's body tensed, every muscle primed for the confrontation. He positioned himself protectively in front of Thomasin, his lightblade igniting with a soft hum, its glow casting long shadows across the warehouse.

"Stay behind me," he commanded, his tone leaving no room for argument. "This creature is here for you, but it will have to go through me."

The wanderer emerged from the darkness, its form a twisted nightmare, its intent deadly clear. Xavier's stance was unwavering, his resolve as unbreakable as the blade he wielded. He would defend Thomasin, would defend their shared purpose, with every ounce of his skill.

The creature lunged, and Xavier met it with the grace of a dancer and the ferocity of a storm. The clash of light against darkness echoed through the warehouse, a symphony of survival. This was his fight, his duty, and he would see it through to the end. For Thomasin, for the city, for the light that must always persevere against the encroaching shadows.

"That's where you're wrong, Xavier. It'll have to go through us!" Without fail, she brandishes her lunar charm, transforming into Stellaluna. All at once, she finds herself with sharpened senses, ready to engage the one who kidnapped her. "We're partners, remember?"

Xavier's eyes met Stellaluna's, a spark of admiration igniting within him at her resilience and courage. "Indeed, partners to the end," he affirmed, the corner of his mouth lifting in a rare, genuine smile.

Together, they stood side by side, a formidable pair against the darkness. The wanderer, with its screeches and malevolent intent, found itself facing not one, but two warriors bathed in the light of their conviction.

Stellaluna's transformation had been swift, her readiness to fight undiminished by her ordeal. Xavier felt the familiar rush of battle, the unity of purpose that had always defined their partnership. They moved in tandem, their attacks a dance of moonlight and shadow, their defense an impenetrable wall of shared strength.

The creature, powerful though it was, could not withstand the combined might of Lumiere and Stellaluna. Each strike they landed was a testament to their bond, each parry a declaration of their unwavering commitment to protect one another and the world they held dear.

The battle raged, the warehouse a stage for a conflict as old as time itself—the fight between light and darkness. And in this moment, Xavier knew, as surely as he knew the grip of his lightblade, that together they were unstoppable. For in the heart of every shadow lay the promise of dawn, and together, they were its heralds.

The wanderer did everything in its power to focus its attack on Stellaluna, who it perceived to be the weakest of the two masked warriors. But Stellaluna, angry about being kidnapped, proved herself to be a formidable foe. Dual Blades blowing with the intensity of a full moon, she faced it head on. The battle raged between the three of them, a dance of steel of a primal rage.

But the duo was victorious, with Stellaluna landing the final blow.

The Wanderer shrieked, disappearing into a void of black feathers, leaving being a black protocore with a red pulsing center. "We need that," Stellaluna points out.

Xavier watched with a fierce pride as Stellaluna met the wanderer's onslaught with a ferocity that belied her recent captivity. Her dual blades, aglow with the intensity of the full moon, were extensions of her will, her strength, her unyielding spirit.

The battle was a tempest, their movements a blur of precision and power. Together, they were a symphony of destruction for any darkness that dared challenge them. And when the final blow was struck, it was Stellaluna who delivered it, her anger and determination channeled through her blades into the heart of the beast.

As the wanderer's form dissipated into the void, leaving behind only the pulsing black protocore, Xavier nodded in agreement with Stellaluna's assessment. "Yes, it's vital. We'll take it back for analysis," he said, his voice carrying the weight of their shared duty. He approached the protocore, his hand outstretched, the lightblade now extinguished. With care, he secured the core, knowing it held secrets they needed to unravel, knowledge that could turn the tide in their ongoing war against the darkness.

"Let's return," Xavier suggested, his gaze returning to Stellaluna. "We have much to discuss, and our strength is best preserved for the battles yet to come."

Together, they would leave the warehouse, the night's ordeal behind them but not forgotten. They would study the protocore, learn from it, and grow stronger. For they were Lumiere and Stellaluna, guardians of the light, and no darkness could long stand against their resolve.

Before she knew it, Stellaluna transformed back into Thomasin, not completely recovered from being kidnapped. Physically, she was fine, but the whole ordeal took its toll on her - more than she cared to admit.

Xavier observed the transformation, noting the subtle shift in Thomasin's posture, the slight tremor in her hands that betrayed the toll the ordeal had taken on her. Despite her physical resilience, the emotional and mental strain of the experience lingered, a shadow not so easily dispelled.

He stepped closer, his presence a silent offer of support. "You've been through a lot," he acknowledged, his voice soft but firm. "It's okay to acknowledge that. We'll take it slow, make sure you're truly alright."

Xavier's concern was palpable, though he kept his expression composed, a calm facade to offer her stability. He was ready to assist her, to be the steadfast ally she needed as she recovered from the night's events.

"Let's get you home," he suggested, gently guiding her with a supportive arm. "Rest is just as important as vigilance in our line of work."

As they made their way back through the quiet streets, Xavier remained vigilant, ever the protector, ensuring their safe passage. He knew that the battles they fought were not just against the physical manifestations of darkness, but also against the unseen scars they left behind.

In the safety of her home, Xavier would see to it that Thomasin had everything she needed to heal, both body and soul. For in the end, their partnership was not just about fighting side by side; it was about standing together through all trials, a bond unbroken by the darkness they faced.

"Thank you, Xavier..." she manages to whisper as they leave the warehouse. "Wait...my glasses. Did I drop them? Everything's kinda hazy."

Xavier paused, his senses immediately scanning the area for the missing glasses. "We'll find them," he assured her, his voice a low murmur of certainty.

He retraced their steps, his eyes sweeping the ground until they caught the faint glint of metal and glass amidst the debris of their battle. With careful hands, he picked up Thomasin's glasses, inspecting them for damage before returning to her side.

"Here they are," Xavier said, offering the glasses to her. "Seems they survived the fray."

As he helped her put them on, ensuring her vision was restored, Xavier felt a quiet satisfaction in the small act of tending to her needs. It was these moments, as much as the grand battles, that forged the depth of their connection.

With her glasses back in place and the world brought back into focus, they continued their journey home. Xavier remained close, a silent guardian, his thoughts already turning to the future, to the next challenge they would face together. But for now, he focused on the present, on the simple act of being there for Thomasin, his partner, his friend.

"Ah..." the night was cold, but the feel of his hands near her face, helping her to put on her glasses was enough to warm her right up. "Th-Thank you. Much better."

Xavier noted the subtle change in Thomasin's demeanor, the slight ease in her voice as clarity returned to her sight. "You're welcome," he replied, his tone even, a quiet acknowledgment of the moment shared between them.

The chill of the night seemed to recede as they made their way forward, the warmth of camaraderie and mutual respect enveloping them like a cloak. Xavier's attentiveness to Thomasin's comfort did not waver, his presence a constant reassurance.

As they walked, the silence between them was not uncomfortable but filled with an unspoken understanding. They had faced darkness together and emerged not just unscathed but stronger for it.

Xavier knew that the road ahead would be fraught with more challenges, more battles to be fought. But for now, he allowed himself the simple contentment of ensuring Thomasin's well-being, the quiet pride of having stood by her side when she needed him most.

The night's events would be a memory, a testament to their strength and unity. And as they reached the safety of her home, Xavier knew that whatever the future held, they would face it together, as partners, as warriors of the light.

Once they reached Thomasin's apartment, she plops down on the couch, feeling embarrassed. "Some partner you have, answering the door in the middle of the night, unable to sense the presence of that wanderer. Of course, I'd walk right into getting kidnapped."

Xavier stood by, watching Thomasin as she settled onto the couch, her self-deprecating words hanging in the air. He remained silent for a moment, allowing her the space to voice her frustrations.

"You're being too hard on yourself," he finally said, his voice a gentle chiding against her self-criticism. "Even the best can be caught off guard. It's not a reflection of your abilities or your worth as a partner."

He moved to sit at the edge of the room, giving her the comfort of his nearness without crowding her. "We all have moments of vulnerability. It's what we do after that defines us," he continued, his gaze steady and reassuring.

Xavier's belief in her was unwavering, and he hoped to instill that same confidence back into her. "You fought bravely tonight, and you were crucial in defeating the wanderer. That's what matters."

He let the silence settle once more, a quiet reminder that he was there for her, not just in battle but in moments of doubt as well. Xavier knew that Thomasin's strength was not diminished by one unexpected setback. Together, they would learn from this experience and emerge all the more prepared for whatever lay ahead.

"Still, I don't like that I worried you. I saw you fighting against that wanderer tonight. I've never see you so intense before."

Xavier acknowledged her observation with a slight nod, his expression unreadable as he contemplated her words. "Your safety is paramount to me," he admitted, his voice low and steady. "The intensity you saw was nothing more than a reflection of that commitment."

He shifted slightly, his posture relaxed yet alert, a silent testament to his readiness to leap into action at a moment's notice. "Worry is a natural response when someone you respect is in danger," he added, his eyes meeting hers with a quiet intensity of their own.

"It's not a burden, Thomasin. It's part of what drives me to be better, to ensure that we both can face these threats head-on," Xavier explained, his tone conveying a depth of sincerity.

He hoped his words would offer her some solace, a reassurance that her well-being was not a concern she had to bear alone. They were partners, after all, and that meant sharing the weight of each other's worries as much as their triumphs.

Xavier's presence was a silent promise, a vow that no matter the intensity of the battle, he would always be there, fighting fiercely to protect her and the bond they shared.

"Thank you, for rescuing me. I...I'm glad you found me in time, or else I don't know what I would have done." Pause "Wait...how did you find me?"

"You don't need to thank me," Xavier replied, his voice a soft murmur in the quiet of the room. "It's what partners do for each other."

He paused for a moment, considering her question, before answering. "I have my ways," he said cryptically. "Let's just say that I have certain... resources that assist me in tracking when one of our own is in trouble."

Xavier's explanation was deliberately vague, his methods a closely guarded secret, not out of mistrust, but to protect Thomasin and others who might rely on him in the future. He preferred to keep certain cards close to his chest, revealing them only when necessary.

"The important thing is that you're safe now," he continued, his gaze unwavering. "And I'll always do what it takes to ensure that remains the case."

Xavier's commitment to her safety was as much a part of him as his own heartbeat. In the silent spaces between them, his resolve was as clear as the stars outside the window—constant, unwavering, and ever vigilant.

"Resources? I told him how to find you!" Tsuki's voice chimed in from Xavier's pocket. "Did you forget I was in here? Did you forget that you practically begged me to track her? How rude, trying to take all the credit."

Thomasin places her hand on her mouth, hiding her giggling. "Certain resources, huh? I guess the bunny in my phone is quite the 'resource' to use after all." A light turns on in her head. "Wait, Tsuki, we have a protocore for you to analyze!"

Xavier's lips quirked into a faint, almost imperceptible smile at Tsuki's indignant outburst and Thomasin's concealed laughter. "I stand corrected," he conceded with a lightness in his tone that was rarely heard. "Tsuki was instrumental in locating you. My gratitude for his assistance remains."

He reached into his pocket, retrieving the device that housed Tsuki's presence, and held it out with a nod of acknowledgment to the advisor within. "Indeed, we have a protocore that requires your expertise," Xavier said, addressing Tsuki directly now.

Turning his attention back to Thomasin, Xavier's expression softened slightly. "Tsuki's skills are invaluable, and I'm thankful for his... our resourcefulness," he admitted, giving credit where it was due.

The moment of levity passed, and Xavier's focus shifted to the task at hand. "Let's get the protocore to Tsuki," he suggested, the seriousness returning to his voice. "The sooner we understand what we're dealing with, the better prepared we'll be for what's to come."

Xavier knew the importance of the analysis and the potential insights it could provide. As he prepared to hand over the protocore, his mind was already racing with possibilities and strategies, the ever-present hunter within him seeking the advantage they would need in the battles that lay ahead.

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Thomasin looks at her phone – the reason for all this insanity. Her life changed when, while playing her beloved game, a message popped up on her screen, asking her if she wanted to become Stellaluna for real. She didn’t think much of it when she pressed “yes”, thinking it was just some pop-up ad for another game or a publicity stunt. 

Spoiler alert – it was definitely not a pop-up ad or a publicity stunt.

Her life changed the day when she came face to face with one of the monsters in her games - along with Xavier, who valiantly engaged with the horrific beast. Though he was a fine warrior, it was clear that he could not subdue the beast on his own.

That's where she came in.

Using her lunar charm, she turned into Stellaluna, her character from the game and his fated partner. Together, they fight against the mythical monsters, known as Wanderers, to keep Linkon City safe from harm.

Art of Lumiere by the talented Kirakanjo! (18+, Minors DNI)

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter Seven: A Cry in the Dark

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

With a snap of her fingers, Stellaluna transforms back into Thomasin. "While we wait for Tsuki to do her work, maybe we should eat something. Today went harder than we anticipated, Xavier."

As Thomasin reverted to her true form with a simple snap, Xavier followed suit, the mystical energy dissipating around him as he transformed back into his everyday self. The adrenaline of the battle was fading, leaving behind the more mundane reality of hunger and exhaustion.

"You're right," Xavier acknowledged, feeling the toll the day's events had taken on his body. "Food sounds like a good idea. We've earned a decent meal after all that."

He knew the importance of replenishing their energy, not just for their physical well-being, but to maintain their readiness for whatever might come next. The Doll Maker's threat still loomed over them, and they needed to be at their best to face her again.

"Let's find a quiet place to eat," Xavier suggested, his mind already on the comfort of a warm meal. "Somewhere we can talk and unwind without drawing too much attention."

Together, they made their way through the city streets, the sounds of the bustling metropolis a stark contrast to the silence of the rooftop they had left behind. They found a small, inconspicuous diner that seemed perfect for their needs—a place where heroes could blend in as just another pair of patrons in need of sustenance.

As they settled into a booth, Xavier allowed himself a moment to relax, the familiar ritual of sharing a meal with Thomasin a welcome respite from the demands of their double lives. They would eat, they would plan, and they would be ready for whatever Tsuki's analysis revealed. For now, though, they were just Xavier and Thomasin, two friends sharing a meal, their bond strengthened by the battles they fought side by side.

Ordering a club sandwich with crispy fries and lemonade, Thomasin sinks into her seat, tired and hungry. "So...what a day, huh? Seriously, I don't know how I'm supposed to go back to work next week when things seem to be really shifting into high gear."

Xavier ordered a hearty meal for himself, knowing his bottomless appetite all too well. As he watched Thomasin sink into her seat, he could see the weariness in her posture, the kind that only comes after a day of pushing oneself to the limit.

"It's been... eventful," Xavier replied, his voice carrying a hint of understatement. He understood the challenge of balancing their ordinary lives with the extraordinary demands of being guardians of the city. "But you'll manage. You always do."

He took a sip of water, considering her words. "We'll adapt, like we always have. Our duty to the city doesn't pause for the nine-to-five. But remember, you're not alone in this. I'm here, Tsuki's here. We're a team."

Xavier leaned back, his gaze steady and reassuring. "We'll take it one day at a time. And when work starts again, we'll find a way to make it all fit. We always find a way."

The food arrived, and Xavier took a moment to appreciate the simple pleasure of a meal shared with a friend and ally. "Let's enjoy this break while we can," he said, offering a small, encouraging smile. "We've earned it, and we'll need our strength for whatever comes next."

As they began to eat, the diner around them faded into the background, their conversation a quiet island in the midst of the world's noise. They were two people, connected by a secret that weighed heavily on them, yet also bound them together in a way few could understand.

"I know we'll figure it out. I'm just not used to this kind of excitement. Like, I write stories, deal with perfectionist directors and pushy fans waiting for the next chapter. I didn't...you know." She winks. He knows. "I mean, how did you deal with all this stuff before I literally dropped into your life?"

She wasn't kidding about the "dropped in" part. On the day the game recognized her as Stellaluna, it teleported her right to where Xavier was engaging a menacing wanderer. Before she had a chance to be terrified, she was given her Moon charm, instantly transforming into Stellaluna. In a moment worthy of a movie, she intercepted the wanderer with her dual blades before it could deal the final blow to Xavier. 

They've been a team ever since.

Xavier took a bite of his meal, chewing thoughtfully as he listened to Thomasin's musings. Her wink was met with a quiet chuckle, the shared memory of her dramatic entrance into his life as vivid as if it had happened mere moments ago.

"I managed," Xavier said after a moment, his tone even. "But it was... different. More solitary. Having you here, it's changed the dynamics, for the better."

He paused, considering how to articulate the shift in his world since Thomasin became Stellaluna. "Before you, it was a lot of silent battles, a lot of shadows. You brought balance, a new perspective. Made me realize that even a lone wolf can benefit from running with a pack." Xavier's gaze drifted to the window, watching the city lights flicker. "You've made me stronger, not just in battle, but in spirit. We're a team, and that means we share the weight of this... excitement."

He offered her a small, genuine smile, a rare glimpse into the appreciation he held for their partnership. "We'll navigate this new chapter together, just like we've faced everything else. Side by side."

Their conversation was a dance of words, a subtle acknowledgment of the bond they had formed. As they finished their meal, the weight of the day seemed to lift slightly, replaced by the comfort of camaraderie and the unspoken promise that no matter what lay ahead, they would face it as one.

"Excitement?" she laughs. "Yeah. But I guess I get what you're saying. I mean, working on stuff, always having deadlines and whatever, I don't have a lot of friends. The only people I meet up with a lot are the folks I work with on shows and everything. But as crazy as all this is, it's nice to have...someone...you know?"

Thomasin averts her gaze, feeling rather shy. "Sorry, forget I said that."

Xavier listened to her laughter, a sound that seemed to momentarily lift the gravity of their situation. He understood the isolation that came with her line of work, the relentless pressure of deadlines and the transient nature of professional relationships.

When she spoke of having someone, Xavier felt the weight of her words, the significance of that simple acknowledgment. He respected the vulnerability it took for her to express that sentiment, even as she quickly tried to dismiss it.

"No need to apologize," Xavier said softly, his voice carrying a quiet assurance. "I get it. It's not just the battles and the close calls. It's the moments in between, the ones like this. They matter."

He met her gaze, his own eyes steady and sincere. "You're not alone, Thomasin. Not anymore. We're in this together, in every sense. And that's something worth acknowledging, no matter how crazy things get."

Their conversation was a delicate balance of shared experiences and unspoken understanding. As they finished their meal and prepared to face the rest of the evening, there was a sense of solidarity between them, a silent agreement that they were more than just allies—they were friends, connected by a bond forged in the fires of adversity and strengthened by moments of quiet connection.

"Xavier, what have I told you about being so sweet and making a girl feel special?" Her voice is playful, but behind the laughter, there is shyness there. Xavier was a very handsome man - looking into his eyes was like looking into an entire galaxy. She might have regarded him as her good partner, but she was also a woman. She could and did notice such things. "I worry about the woman who one day wins your heart. One day you're going to say something nice to her and her heart is going to come flying out of her chest because you made it flutter so much."

Xavier's response was a gentle smile, one that acknowledged the playful tease while respecting the shyness that lingered beneath her words. He was aware of the effect he could have, the way his demeanor could be both disarming and enchanting.

"I suppose I'll have to be careful then," Xavier said, his tone light, a touch of humor in his voice. "Wouldn't want to be responsible for any unintended heart flights."

He leaned back in his seat, his eyes holding a warmth that matched his smile. "But in all seriousness, making someone feel special isn't something I take lightly. It's important to appreciate the people who make a difference in our lives."

Xavier's gaze was steady, his words simple yet sincere. "And you, Thomasin, you've made quite the impact. So, consider any fluttering hearts a hazard of the job."

Their banter was easy, a comfortable exchange between two people who had grown to know each other well. As they prepared to leave the diner, Xavier was reminded of the unique connection they shared, one that was as much about the battles they fought as it was about the moments of human connection that followed. It was a partnership that transcended the ordinary, and he valued it more than he often let on.

"Hey! Hey! Listen." Thomasin was just getting up from their booth with Tsuki started calling out from her phone. "Do you hear me? I'm done here!" 

Thomasin looks at Xavier. "Probably should take this in a more private place, yeah?"

Xavier nodded in agreement, his movements deliberate as he stood up from the booth. "Definitely. Let's find somewhere away from prying eyes and ears."

He led the way out of the diner, his senses alert for a suitable spot where they could discuss Tsuki's findings without interruption. The city offered many hidden corners and quiet spaces for those who knew where to look, and Xavier was well-versed in the art of discretion.

They found a secluded park bench tucked away in a dimly lit corner of a nearby park, the perfect place for a private conversation. The night had brought a cool breeze, and the rustling leaves whispered secrets of their own.

As Thomasin took out her phone, Xavier watched over her shoulder, his presence a silent pillar of support. Tsuki's eager voice filled the air, and both of them leaned in to listen, ready to uncover the next piece of the puzzle in their ongoing battle against the Wanderers.

"Finally, you let me out of my cage!" Tsuki says, rhythmically bouncing up and down. "I analyzed the protocore and discovered some interesting things. But you'll need to bring me more in order to confirm my findings."

"That makes sense," Thomasin replies. "What have you got so far."

"The energy in these protocores aren't like anything we've encountered before with past wanderers. It's almost like its a warped kind of energy - one energy mixed over another. It's almost like it's a parasitical form of energy, in which one form of energy takes control over another."

"Hmm..." Thomasin thinks for a moment. "Didn't the Doll Maker said she could control the wanderers? Maybe that's what you're seeing - her energy controlling the wanderers. What do you think, Xavier?"

Xavier listened intently as Tsuki relayed the findings, his mind already turning over the implications. The notion of a parasitic energy was troubling, suggesting a level of control and manipulation that went beyond their previous encounters with Wanderers.

"It's a plausible theory," Xavier said, his voice low and contemplative. "If the Doll Maker can indeed control the Wanderers, it would explain the unusual energy signatures Tsuki's picking up. It's like she's imprinting her will onto them, bending them to her purposes."

He looked at Thomasin, his expression serious. "We need to gather more protocores to confirm this, but it's a lead worth pursuing. Understanding her control mechanism could be key to stopping her."

Xavier's gaze returned to Tsuki, the digital advisor still bouncing with an energy that seemed inexhaustible. "Tsuki, keep analyzing the data. We'll get you more samples. The more we know, the better equipped we'll be to face the Doll Maker."

As they stood in the quiet park, the gravity of the situation settled around them like the evening mist. The battle was evolving, the stakes rising with each new revelation. But Xavier felt a steady resolve within him, bolstered by the presence of his partner and the guidance of their digital ally.

"We'll get to the bottom of this," Xavier assured Thomasin, his determination clear. "No matter what it takes."

"We're going to need a protocore from the wanderers she summons herself if we're going to get to the bottom of it," Thomasin says. "I wish we had grabbed the protocore from the one she summoned against me with that day. There's no telling when she might do it again."

Xavier nodded in agreement, the missed opportunity a lingering regret. "Next time, we'll be ready," he assured her with a firmness that left no room for doubt. "We'll make sure to secure a protocore from one of her personally summoned Wanderers. It's crucial for our understanding of her control."

He stood up from the bench, his posture reflecting the readiness to act. "We'll stay vigilant. The Doll Maker is bound to strike again, and when she does, we'll use the opportunity to our advantage."

Xavier's eyes met Thomasin's, conveying a silent promise that they would not be caught unprepared again. "Let's keep training and stay on our toes. We can't predict when she'll appear, but we can make sure we're ready to face whatever she throws at us."

As they left the park, the city's nocturnal symphony playing around them, Xavier felt the familiar pull of the hunter's life—the anticipation of the hunt, the readiness for battle, and the unyielding resolve to protect. With Thomasin by his side and Tsuki's guidance, he knew they were a formidable team, one that the Doll Maker would come to fear.

"More training? Seriously?" Thomasin looks like she might curl up into a ball and cry. "Xavier, you're going to be the death of me."

Xavier's lips quirked up in a half-smile, recognizing the exhaustion behind Thomasin's dramatics. "Not the death, Thomasin, just the forging," he said, his voice carrying a lightness to ease her weariness. "Steel sharpens steel, and you're getting sharper every day."

He took a step closer, his tone softening. "But not tonight. Rest is just as important as training. You've earned it."

Xavier knew the importance of balance—pushing too hard could be just as detrimental as not training at all. "Tomorrow is another day, and we'll face it when it comes. For now, let's get some rest. We both need it."

As they made their way back, Xavier was mindful of Thomasin's limits. He was a relentless warrior, but he was also a protector, and part of that duty was to ensure that his partner was taken care of, not just in battle, but in all things.

[Another week later]

Thomasin is lucky - so far, the Director doesn't need her for now, so she's been left alone, writing the next script for the serial. In between writing sessions, she trains with Xavier, preparing for their next encounter with the Doll Maker and her wanderers. It's a tiring balancing act, but somehow, she gets it done. Xavier's encouragement helps her more than she realizes.

Her work group chat wouldn't let up about all the Lumiere and Stellaluna sightings. The two heroes of Linkon City were all they could talk about - whether it was who was the stronger person (Lumiere, hand's down) or whether the duo were single or dating each other.

Ugh, why do people always ship folks like that? We're just friends! It's not like that! Thomasin thought, exasperated. Besides, it's kinda hard to think of romance when, you know, we're trying to save everybody's lives!

But the worst part was that the Director was thinking of making an action series about Lumiere and Stellaluna - and he wanted Thomasin to write the script. She politely declined, of course (she wasn't about to reveal her secrets, intentionally or not), but the Director was persistent. 

"Spiderman didn't have to deal with this nonsense - so why should I?" Thomasin murmured before plopping her head onto her desk gently. "Eff my life!"

Xavier had been quietly observing Thomasin from the doorway, a silent sentinel in her moments of frustration. He could see the weariness etched into her features, the battle between her dual lives taking its toll.

He stepped into the room, his presence a calming force. "Spiderman also didn't have a Lumiere to watch his back," Xavier said, his voice a gentle reminder of their partnership. "And as for the shipping, let them talk. They don't know the half of what we do, the sacrifices we make."

He approached her desk, leaning against it with an ease that spoke of their shared comfort. "You're doing more than most could handle, Thomasin. You're writing stories that captivate minds while living a story that could change the world."

Xavier's hand found a stray pen, twirling it absentmindedly as he spoke. "As for the action series, let the Director dream. You and I, we have bigger battles to fight, more important narratives to shape."

He offered her a small, reassuring smile. "Take a breath. You're not alone in this. We'll handle it together, like we always do. And when the time comes, we'll give them a story worth telling—the truth of Lumiere and Stellaluna, the heroes behind the masks."

"Geez, Xavier!" She jumped high up from her desk, shocked to see her partner behind her. "How...How did you get inside my apartment? Is your teleportation power that overpowered?!"

Xavier's expression remained composed, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes at her startled reaction. "Teleportation would be quite the trick," he said with a soft chuckle. "But no, I used a more traditional method. The door was unlocked."

He straightened up, his stance relaxed. "You've been so focused, I didn't want to disturb you with a knock. But I'm here if you need a break, or just someone to vent to."

Xavier understood the importance of being there for Thomasin, whether it was for a training session or simply to offer a moment of respite from the pressures of her double life. "Sometimes, the quietest entries are the ones that can make the loudest impact," he added, his tone light, trying to ease the tension of the surprise.

He knew well the boundaries of their partnership and respected her space, but he also recognized when she might need that unspoken support. "I'll make more noise next time," he promised, a smile playing on his lips. "Just to keep your heart from leaping out of your chest."

"Oh well thank you." She gestures to her bed nearby, where he sits down. "Did you bring food too? Or we can order some. I haven't eaten yet."

Xavier took a seat on the edge of the bed, his movements graceful and deliberate. "I thought you might be hungry," he said, reaching into a bag he had brought with him. "I brought some takeout from that place you like—the one with the spicy noodles and the dumplings."

He placed the bag on the bed between them, the aroma of the food wafting into the air, a tempting invitation to take a break and replenish their strength. "But if you're in the mood for something else, we can always order your favorite."

Xavier knew the comfort that familiar food could bring, especially after a long day of juggling responsibilities. It was a simple gesture, but one that spoke volumes of his attentiveness to her needs.

"We can eat, talk, or just enjoy the silence," he offered, giving her the choice. "Whatever you need right now, Thomasin, I'm here."

"Oh my god, you're heaven sent, Xavier." She places her hand on her mouth so he doesn't see her drooling over the food. "Thank you so much, partner. Have I told you how much I appreciate you? Because I do."

Xavier's eyes softened at her words, a silent acknowledgment of their bond. "You don't need to say it, Thomasin. It's what partners are for," he replied, his voice carrying the weight of their shared experiences and unspoken understanding.

He opened the takeout containers, the steam rising and filling the room with the scent of well-spiced food. "Let's eat. You need your strength," he said, handing her a pair of chopsticks.

As they began to eat, Xavier was content to share the moment in companionable silence, knowing that sometimes actions spoke louder than words. The simple act of sharing a meal was a testament to their partnership—a partnership that went beyond battles and heroics, rooted in the care they had for each other.

Xavier watched as Thomasin's tension eased with each bite, her appreciation clear in her relaxed posture and the small, contented sounds she made. In these quiet moments, away from the chaos of their lives, they found solace and strength in each other's company.

"Hold on. Hold the plate for me." Focusing on the plate, Thomasin holds out her hand. The plate shakes a little before moving toward her. She carefully takes the plate in her hands, pleased with her new ability. "That's like...the coolest thing ever."

Xavier held the plate steady, an observer to the display of her burgeoning ability. His eyes tracked the movement of the plate, a hint of pride in his gaze at her accomplishment. "Impressive," he said, the word laced with genuine admiration. "You're getting stronger, more in tune with your abilities. It's remarkable to witness."

He watched as she took the plate, her pleasure in her newfound skill evident. "It is cool," he agreed, his voice steady and encouraging. "And it's only going to get more impressive from here. You're tapping into potential you haven't even begun to explore."

Xavier's belief in her was unwavering; he saw not just what she was, but what she could become. As they continued their meal, he knew that this was just a glimpse of the power Thomasin held within her, a power that would grow and shape the future of their fight against the darkness that threatened their city.

"All this time, I didn't think I even had an evol. And now that I do, it's telekinesis? So cool!" She takes a bite out of her plate of food. "Oh my God...remind me to buy this food when my sinuses are clogged up. The spice will set it straight!

Xavier's smile was a quiet echo of her excitement. "Discovering an Evol is always a turning point," he said, his tone reflecting a touch of wonder. "Telekinesis is a rare gift. You'll wield it well, I have no doubt." He watched her enjoy the food, her reaction to the spice a moment of levity amidst the gravity of their lives. "I'll remember," he assured her. "Spicy remedies for clogged sinuses. Though, with your new ability, you might just be able to clear them with a thought."

Xavier's humor was subtle, a gentle nudge to keep the mood light. He took another bite of his own meal, savoring the flavors and the company. "Enjoy your meal, Thomasin. You've earned it, and then some."

"Hey, you're my partner, right? So be sure you enjoy your food, too." She smiles, noticing how much happier she is with him around. "Besides, I can't possibly eat all this spicy food. Then again, if I eat it just before a wanderer fight, do you think I'd breath fire? Because that would definitely be a boon."

Xavier chuckled at the playful suggestion, the sound a low rumble in the quiet of the room. "Breathing fire would certainly add a new element to our battles," he said, the twinkle in his eye betraying his amusement. "Though I think I'd prefer to keep the fire-breathing to the dragons we might face."

He took another bite of his food, enjoying the heat that danced across his taste buds. "And you're right, as partners, we share the load—and the meals. I'll help you with the spice, but let's save the fire-breathing for the Wanderers who need a good scorching."

Xavier's presence was a steady comfort, his quiet demeanor a counterbalance to the chaos of their lives. As they ate, there was a sense of camaraderie that only those who have faced darkness together could truly understand. It was a bond forged in fire, unbreakable and enduring.

Xavier noticed the abrupt halt in her words, his gaze lifting to meet hers with a silent question. "Is everything alright, Thomasin?" he asked, his voice a soft note of concern.

He set his chopsticks down, giving her his full attention. Xavier was always ready to listen, to step in when needed, or to simply be there, a steadfast presence in the ever-shifting tides of their lives.

The room was filled with the quiet comfort of companionship, the kind that didn't always need words to communicate. Xavier waited patiently, ready to respond to whatever was on her mind, whether it was a new revelation, a sudden idea, or just the need to share a moment of silence.

"Ah, sorry." She pats her chest. "Some of that spice got caught up in my chest. I just need some water." Thomasin got up from her desk chair, totally missing the book that was on the floor. She trips over it, losing her balance very quickly. "AH!!!"

In an instant, Xavier was on his feet, his reflexes honed from countless battles allowing him to catch Thomasin before she hit the ground. His arms were secure around her, a protective embrace that steadied her.

"Careful," he said, his voice calm and reassuring as he helped her back to her feet. "The spice is one thing, but we can't have you battling the floor as well."

Once he was sure she was stable, Xavier retrieved a glass of water for her, his movements fluid and efficient. "Here, drink this. It should help," he offered, handing her the glass.

The moment of alarm faded, replaced by the quiet concern in Xavier's eyes. He made a mental note to clear any obstacles from her path in the future, always vigilant in his care for her. "Just take a moment, catch your breath," he advised, watching her closely to ensure she was truly alright.

"Ah...thanks. Didn't see that book there." Now, Thomasin is the one in danger of having her heart coming flying out of her chest. She steps away gingerly, dusting herself off. He was so well-toned and so...ahhhh. 

Clearing her throat, she takes the water, thirstier than ever. "Thank you for that."

Xavier nodded, his expression unchanged, a mask of tranquility. "It happens to the best of us," he said, his voice a gentle rumble. "Just glad I was here to catch you."

He watched as she took the water, ensuring she was recovering from the cough and the near fall. Xavier stood by, a silent guardian, always ready to assist but never overbearing. His presence was like a quiet shadow, there when needed and receding when not. "You're welcome, Thomasin," he replied, once she thanked him. "Take your time. There's no rush." Xavier knew the importance of these small moments of care, the way they could fortify the bonds between partners. As she drank, he quietly picked up the book from the floor, placing it safely on the desk, out of the way.

"Whenever you're ready, we can continue our meal," he said, his tone an invitation rather than an expectation. Xavier was patient, understanding that sometimes life—and spice—could take you by surprise.

"So, while I have you here, you can tell me how I'm supposed to get the director off my back about writing a script for a Lumiere/Stellaluna series." Thomasin takes a bit of her food. "First of all, I don't think he can do it. He mainly directs dramas, you know, the soap operas all the old ladies watch without fail during the day and the ones the office ladies watch at night. It's what he's basically known for. This is my third time working with him."

"Anyway, I get why he's trying to capitalize on...you know. Our masked antics are all my colleagues ever talk about. If it's like this in my group chat, it's probably worse everywhere else." Thomasin's eyes widened. "Should we check social media to see what's going on?"

Xavier leaned back slightly, considering her dilemma with a thoughtful gaze. "Navigating the director's expectations can be tricky," he mused. "Especially if his expertise doesn't align with the vision for a Lumiere/Stellaluna series."

He took a bite of his food, chewing slowly as he pondered her situation. "Perhaps suggest a collaboration with someone who has experience in the genre you're aiming for. A partnership could balance his dramatic flair with the action and intrigue a superhero series demands."

At the mention of their masked escapades becoming a hot topic, Xavier's lips quirked in a half-smile. "It's inevitable that people would be drawn to the mystery of Lumiere and Stellaluna," he said. "But remember, social media is a double-edged sword. It can amplify the legend as much as it can distort it."

He paused, considering her next move. "Checking social media might give us insight into the public's perception. It could be useful to understand the narrative they're constructing around us." Xavier's tone was nonchalant, but his eyes held a sharpness—a hunter's awareness of the importance of staying one step ahead of the story being woven about them.

"Let's start with Breddit - that one site where you can talk about all kinds of topics. Surely, we can find something there, right?"

And find things they did. In addition to topics regarding their sightings, they find countless other communities - fan clubs for Lumiere, fan clubs for Stellaluna, and fan clubs shipping the two together. Thomasin knew better than to actually click on the links - there was bound to be a topic, a photo, or an illustration that neither of them would be ready to take in.

"Ah...looks like...we're kind of popular, huh?"

Xavier's eyes scanned the screen, taking in the myriad of posts and discussions that sprawled across Breddit. The sheer volume of attention was a testament to the impact they had made on the city's consciousness. "It seems we've become quite the phenomenon," he acknowledged, his voice a low hum of amusement mixed with a hint of wariness.

He leaned closer, not to read the details, but to gauge the general sentiment. "Popularity can be a fleeting thing," he remarked. "But it appears Lumiere and Stellaluna have struck a chord with the people of this city. They're looking for heroes, and somehow, we've filled that role."

Xavier straightened up, turning to Thomasin with a slight shrug. "We should tread carefully. This kind of attention can be overwhelming, and it's not always positive. But for now, it's clear we're giving them something to believe in."

He offered her a small, reassuring smile. "Let's just focus on what we do best—protecting the city. The rest is just noise." Xavier's demeanor remained calm, a steady presence amidst the storm of public opinion.

"Oh, they're looking for something all right, and I don't think it's just for us to be heroes." Thomasin clicked out of the site. "Fans going to do what fans do, but you're right. I shouldn't put too much thought into it. I think when you're a hero, keeping your sanity in tact is pretty important."

Xavier nodded in agreement, his expression serene yet understanding of the complexities that fame could bring. "Indeed, the line between hero and icon is often blurred by the gaze of the public," he said. "Our true purpose must remain clear amidst the clamor."

He watched as Thomasin closed the site, a silent commendation for her decision to step away from the whirlwind of speculation and adoration. "Sanity is a precious commodity in our line of work," he continued. "We must guard it as fiercely as we do the city."

Xavier's gaze lingered on her for a moment, a silent acknowledgment of the weight they both carried. "Remember, Thomasin, you're not alone in this. We stand together, not just against the darkness, but also against the storm of attention that follows us."

He offered a faint smile, one that didn't quite reach his eyes but conveyed his support. "Now, let's finish our meal. We'll need our strength for whatever comes next."

"Well, I have to get back to work on my script, but you are more than welcome to hang out and rest if you like, partner." She smiles at him warmly. "There might be a bag of unopened dried mango slices on the kitchen counter if you'd like a snack later."

"Thank you, Thomasin," Xavier responded, his voice a soft echo in the room. "I might take you up on that offer. The mango slices sound tempting."

He stood up, his movements graceful and unhurried, a quiet force in the space they shared. "I'll be around if you need anything," he assured her, his tone carrying the weight of a promise. "Good luck with your script. I have no doubt it will captivate the audience just as Lumiere and Stellaluna have."

With that, Xavier retreated to a corner of the room, finding solace in the silence that allowed Thomasin to focus on her work. He picked up a book, the pages a familiar comfort, and settled in. Every so often, his gaze lifted from the text to watch over her, a silent guardian ever present, ever watchful.

Thomasin continues to work into the night, Xavier nestled in the corner of the room, quiet as a mouse. It is only when things seem too quiet does she realize that he's fallen asleep. With a smile, she quietly creeps out of the room, grabbing a blanket for him. Carefully, she drapes it over his sleeping form, careful not to disturb him.

"Sleep tight, Xavier," she whispers quietly.

She continues to work on her script, mindful of her draft deadline, approaching in two days. It's nearly two in the morning when she gets a notification on her phone - someone is at her door. The phone doesn't make a sound since it's on silent mode - usually done so she can sleep. Confused, she heads for the door.

"I didn't order any food - who on earth is knocking at this hour? Maybe it's someone who got the wrong apartment."

Tired, she saunters to the door, not in her right mind as she opens the door. "Hello - "

The figure is tall, dark, and menacing - surrounded by black feathers.

Her screams echo throughout her apartment - and then...silence.

Her glasses are on the floor - but the rest of her is nowhere to be found.

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Thomasin looks at her phone – the reason for all this insanity. Her life changed when, while playing her beloved game, a message popped up on her screen, asking her if she wanted to become Stellaluna for real. She didn’t think much of it when she pressed “yes”, thinking it was just some pop-up ad for another game or a publicity stunt. 

Spoiler alert – it was definitely not a pop-up ad or a publicity stunt.

Her life changed the day when she came face to face with one of the monsters in her games - along with Xavier, who valiantly engaged with the horrific beast. Though he was a fine warrior, it was clear that he could not subdue the beast on his own.

That's where she came in.

Using her lunar charm, she turned into Stellaluna, her character from the game and his fated partner. Together, they fight against the mythical monsters, known as Wanderers, to keep Linkon City safe from harm.

Art of Lumiere by the talented Kirakanjo! (18+, Minors DNI)

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter Six: Training Under the Moonlight

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

The next day, training began on the rooftop that had become their secret meeting spot.

As dawn broke the next day, the rooftop greeted them with the silence of a world not yet awake. It was their sanctuary, a place where they could train away from prying eyes. Xavier led the way, his movements precise and deliberate as he set the pace for their regimen.

He guided Thomasin through a series of exercises designed to enhance her agility and endurance. They practiced combat sequences, Xavier correcting her stance, praising her progress, always pushing her to reach new heights. They moved in harmony, their partnership a dance of strength and skill.

As the sun climbed higher, casting long shadows across the rooftop, sweat glistened on their brows, testament to their hard work. Xavier watched Thomasin push through the fatigue, her determination as clear as the sky above them. He could see the warrior within her emerging, the Stellaluna that Tsuki had spoken of.

When the day's training came to an end, Xavier offered Thomasin a hand up from the ground, his own muscles aching from the exertion. "You did well today," he said, his voice carrying both pride and encouragement. "Rest now. We'll pick up again tomorrow."

"You say I did well, but my body says otherwise." She slumps down to the ground, exhausted. "Can you believe that when it came to choosing people for team games, they always chose me last? If they only saw me now."

Xavier watched Thomasin slump to the ground, her exhaustion a clear sign of the effort she had put into their training. He crouched beside her, his own fatigue masked by the concern he felt for his partner.

"Your body will adapt," he said, his voice a low, comforting rumble. "The pain is just a testament to your growth. And as for the past, those games never measured your true worth."

He extended a hand to help her up, a silent offer of support. "Those who overlooked you then couldn't see the strength you carry within you. But I see it, every day. You're not the person they left behind; you're the one leading the charge."

Xavier's belief in her was unwavering, his faith in their partnership a constant source of strength. "Take a moment to rest, then we'll head back. Tomorrow, you'll be even stronger."

As they made their way back from the rooftop, Xavier was quietly proud of the progress they had made. Thomasin was proving herself to be a formidable warrior, and together, they were becoming a force to be reckoned with. The journey ahead would be challenging, but Xavier knew that with each other's support, they would be ready for whatever the future held.

"I hope you're right about that," she says, breathless. "In the meantime, would you help your partner get home. I don't think I can feel my legs."

Xavier offered a gentle nod, his face etched with a soft smile that spoke volumes of his readiness to aid her. "Of course," he replied, his voice steady and sure. "Lean on me."

He moved closer, providing a steady arm for Thomasin to grasp. With careful, measured steps, he supported her weight as they descended from the rooftop, her reliance on him a silent acknowledgment of the trust between them.

As they walked, Xavier was mindful of her every movement, ensuring she felt secure. He knew the importance of recovery after such strenuous exertion, and he was determined to see her safely home.

"Rest is just as crucial as the training itself," he reminded her. "We'll get you home, you'll recover, and tomorrow, we'll continue our preparation."

Reaching her door, Xavier helped Thomasin inside, his role as her partner extending beyond their training. He was there to support her in every way, to ensure that when the time came, they would both be ready to face the Doll Maker and protect their world.

The week goes by and with every passing session, Thomasin feels stronger. Xavier was a strict teacher but not so cruel as to push her beyond her limits. She was grateful for the help, and because of this, she was feeling like a proper partner for the already OP Xavier.

"Hallelujah - on the final day of training, I have finished without crumbling to the ground." Thomasin grins, pretending to flex her muscles. "I'm still no Lumiere, but I'm still not bad!"

Xavier observed Thomasin's playful display, a hint of pride flickering in his eyes. The week had been grueling, but she had met each challenge with unwavering determination. Her progress was undeniable, and it filled him with a sense of accomplishment as her partner and mentor.

"You've done more than just finish," he said, his voice carrying the weight of his respect for her efforts. "You've transformed. You're not just a partner; you're a force in your own right."

He stepped forward, clapping her on the shoulder in a gesture of camaraderie. "You've always had the spirit of a warrior, Thomasin. Now, you have the strength to match it."

Xavier's training may have been strict, but it was born of a desire to see Thomasin succeed, to stand beside her as equals when they faced the darkness that threatened their city. He knew that together, they were a formidable team, each bringing their own unique strengths to the battle.

"As for being Lumiere," he continued with a slight chuckle, "you bring something different to the table, something just as valuable. Don't sell yourself short."

The final day of training marked a new beginning for them both. They were ready, not just in body, but in spirit. The Doll Maker and her Wanderers would soon learn the true strength of their partnership.

Xavier's gaze turned towards the horizon, where the setting sun painted the sky with hues of fire and gold. "We're ready for whatever comes next," he said, his voice a quiet vow. "Let's show them what we're made of."

Just as they took a step forward, Thomasin wobbled, dizzy. She looked up into the skies, dark-lining surrounding otherwise white and fluffy clouds in blue sky. She narrows her eyes at the crow flying across the sky. The feeling of foreboding - it reminded her of the day she met the dollmaker...

"It's cute that you think a little exercise can make a difference." Thomasin and Xavier whirl around, greeted by the little girl in black she saw that fateful day a week ago - the Doll Maker. Thomasin grits her teeth as that creepy crow swoops down from the skies, landing on the little girl's shoulder. "But I won't let you hurt my toys ever again. Your time is near!"

"It's you!" Thomasin hissed. "How did you get here?"

Xavier's instincts kicked in as Thomasin wobbled, his hand reaching out to steady her. The sudden appearance of the crow and the shift in the atmosphere had him on high alert. When the Doll Maker revealed herself, his body tensed, ready for the confrontation they had been preparing for all week.

He positioned himself subtly in front of Thomasin, a silent protector, as the Doll Maker's chilling words hung in the air. "We've been expecting you," Xavier said, his voice calm and even, betraying none of the adrenaline coursing through his veins.

His eyes never left the little girl, taking in every detail, every nuance that might give them an advantage. "You underestimate the power of determination and the strength of the human spirit," he continued, his gaze flickering to the crow on her shoulder. "We're not just exercising; we're fortifying our resolve."

As Thomasin demanded answers, Xavier remained vigilant, his senses attuned to any sudden movements from their adversary. "Your presence here was anticipated," he told the Doll Maker, his words measured. "And your toys... they're not yours to control, not anymore. We're here to put an end to your games."

The air was thick with tension, the rooftop now an arena where the fate of many would be decided. Xavier knew the battle ahead would be fierce, but he also knew they were ready. They had trained, they had grown, and they would stand together against the darkness.

The Doll Maker's arrival was the signal they had been waiting for. It was time to put their training to the test, to protect their city, and to confront the evil before them. Xavier and Thomasin were a team, and together, they would face whatever the Doll Maker had in store.

"You say that, sweet Lumiere, but we both know that's not true. It's only because I let you find your partner that you can do as much as you have now - but all that is party tricks compared to what I can do."

"And as for you, Stellaluna." The Doll Maker stares daggers at Thomasin. "You should have died that day. I underestimated your abilities...I won't be doing that again."

"Seriously, why are you doing this?" Thomasin asks, trying to move forward. But Xavier keeps himself in between her and the Doll Maker. "You're not one of those edgy kids that just want to see the world burn, do you?"

The Doll Maker laughs. "My plans are my own - and if I told them to you, you'd just ruin everything. Where's the fun in that? But..." The little girl looks to Lumiere. "I'll humor you. Lumiere is allowed to ask me one question - but no more."

Xavier's gaze remained fixed on the Doll Maker, his posture unyielding as he stood between Thomasin and the enigmatic foe. The little girl's words were meant to unnerve, to sow doubt, but Xavier's resolve was as steadfast as the earth beneath their feet.

He weighed her offer carefully, understanding the gravity of this single question. His mind raced, considering what he could ask that would yield the most insight into her motives and plans. This was a game of chess, and the next move was critical.

Finally, Xavier spoke, his voice a calm counterpoint to the Doll Maker's taunting laughter. "Why are you targeting us?" he asked, his question piercing the heart of the matter. "What is it that you hope to achieve by bringing harm to this city and its people?"

His question hung in the air, a challenge to the Doll Maker to reveal a glimpse of her twisted agenda. Xavier knew that whatever her answer, it would provide them with a clue, a piece of the puzzle that was this enigmatic adversary. He stood ready, prepared for any trickery or deceit. The Doll Maker was cunning, but Xavier and Thomasin were a united front, their bond a shield against her malevolence.

"Why am I targeting this city? What makes you think this place is yours in the first place?" The Doll Maker's eyes darken with anger. "It is you who ruined our plans 14 years ago - we would have taken what rightfully belongs to us if you hadn't ruined everything. Now that we are stronger, we can finally set wrong to right." She smirks. "That is, if you stop getting in my way."

Xavier's eyes narrowed, a flicker of understanding igniting within him as the Doll Maker spoke of past events, of a conflict that stretched back further than he had realized. Her words hinted at a deeper vendetta, one that tied their fates together in ways he hadn't anticipated.

"We stand in your way because it is our duty to protect those who cannot protect themselves," Xavier replied, his voice firm and resolute. "This city, these people—they are under our watch. Your claim over this place, whatever it may be, does not grant you the right to harm innocents."

He stood unwavering, a sentinel against the darkness that threatened to engulf their world. "You speak of setting wrong to right, but all I see is a path of destruction in your wake. We cannot allow you to continue unchallenged."

Xavier's stance was protective, his body a barrier between the Doll Maker and Thomasin. He was ready to act, to defend, to fight if necessary. The Doll Maker's smirk did not shake him; it only steeled his resolve.

"Your strength may have grown, but so has ours," he continued, his gaze locked with the Doll Maker's. "And we will not falter. We will not fail. This city is not yours to take."

The air crackled with tension, the rooftop a silent witness to the standoff. Xavier knew that the battle ahead would be fierce, but he also knew that he and Thomasin were not alone. They had each other, and they had the will to stand against the Doll Maker's malice.

"We'll see about that Lumiere. You might be able to sense my primitive toys, but you have no idea what I'm capable of." She stares at Thomasin. "What I did the other day used only a fraction of my power. And by the time I do show it, it'll be too late."

With a thrust of her arm, The Doll Maker sent a gust of black feathers toward their way. Without thinking, Thomasin lifted her arm in return, stopping them in mid flight. Using her evol - telekinesis - she sends them back to the Doll Maker, stop teleports away before they can hit her.

"Oh yeah...forgot I had that," Thomasin says, looking at her hands.

Xavier's reflexes were sharp, ready to leap into action as the black feathers surged towards them. But Thomasin's response was quicker, her newfound abilities manifesting in a display of telekinetic power that even he hadn't fully anticipated. He watched, impressed, as she deflected the attack with a mere gesture, her control over her evol growing stronger by the moment.

A smirk played on Xavier's lips as Thomasin realized the extent of her capabilities. "You're full of surprises, Stellaluna," he said, his tone laced with both amusement and approval. "Seems like our training paid off more than you thought."

The Doll Maker gritted her teeth. "You'll pay for that! I promise you, you will not get what you want. Me and my toys, we won't rest until Linkon City turns to ashes once more!" Black feathers swirl around her, obscuring her from view. "In the meantime, allow one of my favorite toys to play with you."

Thomasin watched as the Doll Maker disappeared along with her crow pet. Right on cue, her phone began to ring, Tsuki Bun appearing before them. "Finally, I was able to get through! The energy that prevented me from calling you before blocked me again. Was it the Doll Maker?"

"Yes, and she's not very happy with us," Thomasin says dryly. "What's going on, Tsuki?"

"There's an influx of energy just outside downtown - a wandering is coming!"

Xavier's eyes narrowed as the Doll Maker's threat echoed through the air, her departure marked by the ominous swirl of black feathers. He knew her words were not to be taken lightly; the battle for Linkon City was far from over.

As the feathers dissipated, leaving behind an uneasy silence, Xavier's attention shifted to Thomasin's phone. Tsuki Bun's sudden appearance was a stark reminder of the urgency of their situation. The energy blockage explained the difficulty in communication, but now they had a more pressing concern.

"A Wanderer," Xavier said, his voice steady despite the rising tension. "We need to move quickly. The city can't withstand another catastrophe."

He glanced at Thomasin, a silent signal that it was time to spring into action. "Tsuki, guide us to the source of the energy. We'll intercept the Wanderer before it can do any harm."

With swift efficiency, Xavier and Thomasin gathered their gear, their movements synchronized from their intensive training. They had faced Wanderers before, but each encounter was unpredictable, each foe a unique challenge.

As they made their way towards downtown, Xavier's mind was focused, analyzing potential strategies and recalling the patterns of past Wanderers. He knew that their success depended not only on their strength and abilities but also on their ability to adapt to the unexpected.

"We'll stop it, Tsuki," Xavier assured the advisor, his confidence unshaken. "Linkon City is our home, and we'll defend it with everything we've got."

The cityscape blurred past them as they raced against time, the weight of their responsibility heavy on their shoulders. But Xavier and Thomasin were undeterred, their partnership a beacon of hope in the face of encroaching darkness. Together, they would confront the Wanderer, together they would protect their city, and together, they would stand against the Doll Maker's sinister plans.

Just before they made it to the location, Thomasin looks at Xavier, grabbing her moon charm. "Shall we dance?" she says with a smirk. "And by dance, I mean transform."

Xavier met Thomasin's smirk with a knowing glance, the moon charm in her grasp a symbol of the power they were about to unleash. "Let's," he replied succinctly, his own hand moving to the star emblem that signified his readiness to transform.

In a fluid motion, they activated their charms, the air around them crackling with energy as their transformation began. Light enveloped them, a dazzling display of their inner strength manifesting in the physical armor of their alter egos.

As the transformation completed, Xavier stood tall beside Thomasin, their attire now that of the warriors they had become. They were no longer just Xavier and Thomasin; they were Lumiere and Stellaluna, the guardians of Linkon City, ready to face whatever threat lay ahead.

With a nod to each other, they advanced towards the source of the energy Tsuki had warned them about. Their steps were confident, their resolve unbreakable. They had trained for moments like this, and now it was time to put their skills to the test.

The just appeared as they got there, the crowd running for their lives as the Wanderer let out a shriek into the ether. Stellaluna's duel blades appear in her gloved hands, sparkling with the shine of the silvery moon. "Let's get it because it causes any significant damage."

Lumiere, now fully transformed, surveyed the scene with a calm intensity. The crowd's panic was palpable, their fear a stark contrast to the calm determination that emanated from him and Stellaluna. The Wanderer's shriek, a sound that could chill the very soul, was met with unwavering courage.

"Agreed," Lumiere responded, his lightblade materializing in his hand, its glow a beacon amidst the chaos. "We strike fast and with precision."

With a swift glance to ensure the civilians were evacuating safely, Lumiere and Stellaluna moved into position. The Wanderer, a grotesque creature of nightmare, towered before them, its form a twisted echo of the darkness from which it was born.

Stellaluna, her dual blades ready, mirrored Lumiere's readiness. They had faced such horrors before, each time standing victorious, and this time would be no different. Their movements were a practiced dance, a partnership honed through countless battles.

Without hesitation, they launched into the fray, Stellaluna's blades slicing through the air with lethal grace, while Lumiere's lightblade cut a path of radiant light. The Wanderer's shrieks turned to roars of fury as it met the might of their combined assault.

The battle was fierce, the Wanderer's strength formidable, but Lumiere and Stellaluna were a tempest, their attacks relentless. They moved with a synchronicity that spoke of deep trust and mutual respect, their every strike a testament to their resolve to protect their city.

As the fight raged on, it was clear that the Wanderer was faltering under their onslaught. Lumiere and Stellaluna were not just fighters; they were protectors, their power drawn from the very essence of the celestial bodies they represented.

With a final, decisive blow, the Wanderer's form began to dissipate, its existence snuffed out by the unwavering light of Lumiere and the piercing chill of Stellaluna's moonlit blades. The threat was neutralized, the city safe once more.

Breathing heavily from the exertion, Lumiere turned to Stellaluna, a nod of respect and camaraderie passing between them. They had done it again, standing shoulder to shoulder against the darkness, their bond unbreakable.

Lumiere and Stellaluna stood back-to-back, watching the crowd cheer for them, some taking pictures and videos of the fierce battle. "It's times like these...I'm glad that my hair and eye color changes when I'm like this.  Shall we make a hasty exit...wait..."

She rushes over to the protocore that rested where the Wanderer once stood. Stellaluna takes it in her gloved hand. "Maybe we should have Tsuki analyze this?"

Lumiere watched the crowd's jubilation, their cheers a testament to the peace they had fought so hard to maintain. He shared a moment of silent understanding with Stellaluna, both aware of the duality of their lives and the anonymity their transformations provided.

As Stellaluna suggested a retreat, Lumiere was already scanning the area for the quickest escape route, one that would allow them to vanish before the crowd's excitement turned to curiosity. But her sudden movement caught his attention, and he turned to see her retrieving the protocore.

"Good thinking," Lumiere agreed, his voice low so only she could hear. "Tsuki will likely uncover something from it that could give us an advantage."

He glanced around, ensuring no one was paying too close attention to their actions. "Let's move out discreetly. We've got what we came for, and the crowd has their spectacle. Time to disappear into the night."

With a subtle gesture, he signaled Stellaluna to follow, and together they slipped away from the scene, their exit as swift and silent as their arrival. The crowd's attention remained fixed on the site of the battle, allowing Lumiere and Stellaluna to fade into the shadows, their presence dissolving like mist.

Once they were a safe distance away, Lumiere contacted Tsuki. "We have a protocore for analysis. We'll need your insight on this one," he said, his voice carrying the weight of the night's events.

As they made their way back, the adrenaline of the battle began to ebb, replaced by the quiet satisfaction of a job well done. Lumiere and Stellaluna had once again proven themselves as the guardians of Linkon City, their victory a beacon of hope in a world that so often teetered on the brink of darkness.

Tsuki bounced out of Stellaluna's phone, ever the bun bun it presented itself to be. "Place it on the phone and I will analyze it as best as I can! It might take me a bit, though."

Lumiere watched as Tsuki, ever the energetic and helpful bun bun, emerged from Stellaluna's phone with its usual bounce. He nodded at Tsuki's instructions, a silent acknowledgment of the digital companion's capabilities.

"Take all the time you need, Tsuki," Lumiere said, his tone conveying the importance of the task at hand. "We need to understand what we're dealing with."

Stellaluna carefully placed the protocore onto the phone, allowing Tsuki to begin the analysis. Lumiere stood by, his gaze shifting between the phone and their surroundings, ever vigilant even in the aftermath of battle. The city lights cast a soft glow around them, a stark contrast to the darkness they had just faced. Lumiere felt the familiar pull of fatigue, a reminder of the energy expended during their encounter with the Wanderer. Yet, there was no room for rest—not until they had answers.

As Tsuki worked, Lumiere's thoughts drifted to the Doll Maker and her ominous threats. The protocore might hold clues to her plans, and any information they could glean would be crucial in preparing for her next move.

He glanced at Stellaluna, a silent message of solidarity passing between them. They were a team, and together they would face whatever challenges lay ahead. For now, they waited, the city holding its breath along with them, as Tsuki delved into the mysteries of the protocore.

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter Five: The Doll Maker

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

Misu stirs after sleeping for awhile, the rays of the sun stinging her eyes. Despite the events of last night, she slept better than she ever has before, in the safety of Xavier's presence. With a sigh, she sits up from his couch, stretching her arms with a yawn. As soon as her eyes focus, she sees Xavier across from her, his presence a balm to her weary soul.

"Hey there, Lumiere," she says, still sleepy. "Did you order a Stellaluna for breakfast?"

Xavier, who had remained awake through the night, watched over Thomasin as she slept, his gaze softening as she stirred awake. The morning light bathed the room in a warm glow, casting a serene atmosphere over the space that had served as her refuge.

"Good morning," he greeted her, his voice low and steady, a comforting presence as she acclimated to the new day. "No Stellaluna on the menu, but I can offer you some breakfast if you're hungry."

He rose from his seat, moving with a quiet grace to the kitchen area. The events of the previous night had not diminished his care for her well-being, and he was prepared to provide whatever she needed to recover.

As he busied himself with the simple task of preparing a meal, Xavier allowed himself a small smile at her use of their code names. It was a reminder of their shared experiences, the bond that had been forged in the crucible of their battles against the darkness.

The aroma of tea began to fill the apartment, a familiar and soothing scent that promised comfort and a moment of peace. "I hope you're feeling better this morning," he said, glancing back at her. "Rest is important, but so is nourishment."

Xavier set the table with care, placing a plate of food and a cup of tea before the spot where Thomasin would sit. He had chosen foods that were easy on the stomach, mindful of her condition after the ordeal they had faced.

"Whenever you're ready," he invited, his tone gentle. "There's no rush. We have the day ahead of us to figure things out."

As Thomasin joined him at the table, Xavier was content to share the quiet morning with her. The questions and mysteries of the little girl and the Wanderer could wait. For now, it was enough to be there for each other, to enjoy the simple pleasure of a shared meal and the unspoken understanding that, no matter what, they were not alone.

"Thank you, you didn't have to do that. The tea, and the staying up all night. And before you try, I know you did. That's just how you are. I'm your partner. I know things."

She carefully takes the cup of tea, enjoying a sip before setting it back down. "Between you and me, I have no rush to start the day. It's only a matter of time before the director starts hounding me, though I should let him know that I'm, well, alive. I mean, it's common courtesy, right?"

Thomasin fishes the phone out of her pocket. After all the crazy events from the night before, it was still in one piece. "Well would you look at that - not a scratch on it. You think I can get away with cancelling the insurance I have on it?" she asks with a laugh

Xavier watched her with a quiet attentiveness, a slight nod acknowledging her words. "It's what partners do," he said simply, his tone carrying the unspoken depth of their bond. "And yes, you know me well."

He observed as she took a sip of the tea, the steam rising gently from the cup, a small moment of tranquility amidst the storm of their lives. "Common courtesy, perhaps," he agreed with a hint of a smile. "But also a reassurance for those who care about your well-being. The director included."

At her comment about the phone, Xavier's smile broadened just a touch. "Seems your luck is holding up, even after such a night," he remarked. "As for the insurance, it might be wise to keep it. Our line of work does come with its... unexpected moments."

He leaned back slightly, giving her the space to make her call, yet remaining present, a silent support. The morning stretched out before them, a brief respite from the demands of their duties. For now, the quiet of his apartment was a sanctuary, a place where they could catch their breath before facing whatever lay ahead.

Xavier's gaze drifted to the window, the sunlight painting the room with a soft, golden hue. The city was waking up, life moving forward, and yet, in this moment, time seemed to stand still, allowing them both a chance to simply be. It was a rare gift, and one he was grateful to share with his partner, his friend, Thomasin.

Thomasin was finishing up her tea when her phone began to ring off the rails. She arches her eyes in confusion - normally, a regular ringtone plays when she has a call, but this...this call was screaming at her. "Open your phone! Open your phone, I have something to say! Hurry up!"

Thomasin looks at Xavier quizzically before doing what she's told. The moment she does, a holographic image of what looks like a Bun-Bun toy appears from her phone. "Finally, I got through to you Stellaluna! Is Lumiere with you?"

"Huh?" She couldn't believe it. "Wait, it's the Bun Bun from the game that brought us together - Tsuki! She's the one who gives all the quests in stuff in the game. But...what are you doing here?"

"I've been here all the time! I just forgot how to get outside the game!" The bun bun pouted, but only for a moment. "But I'm here now, and as your advisor, I am here to help you and Lumiere with the Wanderers!"

Xavier's curiosity piqued as the unexpected ringtone filled the room, his eyes following Thomasin's movements as she answered the insistent call. The appearance of the holographic Bun-Bun toy was as surprising to him as it was to her, a digital entity from their shared gaming experience now seemingly crossing into their reality.

He leaned forward, his expression a mix of intrigue and caution. This was new territory, even for them. "Tsuki's Bun-Bun," he murmured, recognition dawning. "But how..."

Thomasin's confusion mirrored his own, her question hanging in the air between them. Xavier watched as the Bun-Bun animatedly explained its presence, claiming to be there to assist them with the Wanderers. It was a claim that demanded attention, the implications of which could be significant.

Xavier remained silent, his mind racing with possibilities. If this Bun-Bun, a character from a game, had somehow found a way to manifest outside of its digital confines, what did that mean for the nature of their reality? And more importantly, how could this newfound advisor aid them in their ongoing struggle against the Wanderers?

"We could use all the help we can get," he finally said, his voice measured. "But we need to understand more. How did you come to be here, Bun-Bun? And what assistance can you offer us?"

"Ah, there you are Lumiere! It's good to finally connected with you." There was no mistaking the blush that appeared on Bun Bun's face. "I am here to answer whatever questions I can get. I may be the advisor in the game, but I was always meant to be an advisor for you two. It was the reason the game was created in the first place - to find you the proper partner, your Stellaluna, the one who will help you fight the wanderers!"

Thomasin watches enthralled as Tsuki continued on. "My creators began to pick up Wanderer energy a few years ago, but it was too small to warrant serious attention. So we created this game as a means to bringing the two of you together when the time was right. Lumiere, you've always been a warrior, but there is only so much you can do alone. So we created a game in order find the one person with a true fighting spirit that would help you with your mission. And that's where you come in, Stellaluna!"

"Me?" Thomasin points to herself. "But I'm a writer, not a fighter. Why me?"

"I don't know the ins and outs, but my masters saw something in you that the couldn't see in anyone else. Which is why you were given the moon charm to transform into Stellaluna. I was supposed to guide you through the process and train you, but the Wanderer energies warped my programming, which is why I'm only now able to appear. If we don't do something about them, it'll get even worse!"

Xavier absorbed the revelation with a calm that belied the storm of thoughts within him. The game, Tsuki, had been a carefully orchestrated plan to unite him with Thomasin, his destined partner in the fight against the Wanderers. It was a staggering concept, one that suggested a level of premeditation and foresight far beyond what he had imagined.

He glanced at Thomasin, her surprise and self-doubt evident. "You're more than just a writer, Thomasin," he said, his voice firm with conviction. "You've proven yourself in battle time and again. Your courage, your spirit... they're unmatched. Tsuki saw that in you, and so have I."

Turning his attention back to Bun-Bun, Xavier's expression was one of determination. "We need to understand the full extent of this threat," he stated. "If the Wanderer energies are capable of affecting digital entities like yourself, we're facing an enemy that can breach worlds."

He stood up, his movements deliberate. "We'll need to prepare, to train, and to understand our enemy. Bun-Bun, you were meant to guide us. Now is the time to fulfill that purpose. Tell us what we need to know, and we'll do whatever it takes to stop the Wanderers from causing further harm."

Xavier's resolve was clear, his role as a protector never more vital. The game had been a means to an end, a way to forge a partnership that was now essential to their survival and the safety of the world.

"Bun-Bun - my name is Tsuki, not Bun-Bun! Bun-Bun is so childish!" the little advisor points out with a pout. "And you're right! The Wanderers have the power to breach our world, but also to hide themselves in plain sight. Stellaluna, you saw that when you encountered the little girl yesterday. She is the Doll Maker. She can create human versions of herself that can transform into Wanderers. If you hadn't summoned your blades, things would have ended badly!"

Xavier took note of the correction with a nod, his expression serious. "Tsuki, then," he acknowledged, respecting the advisor's preference. The information she provided was crucial, painting a clearer picture of the enemy they faced. The Doll Maker—a being with the ability to craft human facsimiles that could become Wanderers—was a threat unlike any they had encountered before.

He turned to Thomasin, his eyes conveying the gravity of the situation. "The Doll Maker's ability to blend in, to become one of us, it's a dangerous advantage," he said. "We were fortunate last night, but we can't rely on luck alone."

Xavier's mind was already strategizing, considering their next steps. "Tsuki, we need to know everything you can tell us about the Doll Maker and how to counteract her abilities. We also need to understand the extent of the Wanderer energies and how they're affecting our world."

He stepped closer to Thomasin, a silent gesture of solidarity. "We'll train, we'll adapt, and we'll be ready for whatever comes next. Our partnership has already proven strong, but we'll make it unbreakable."

The presence of Tsuki, the advisor from a game that had been more than it seemed, was a turning point. Xavier felt the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, but he also felt the unyielding support of his partner. Together, with Tsuki's guidance, they would stand against the Doll Maker and the Wanderers, their resolve a beacon of hope in the encroaching darkness.

"The Doll Maker can blend in, yes, but she isn't a shapeshifter. Stellaluna, as long you remember what she looks like, then you will always know who she is."

"I could never forget a face like that," Thomasin says. "Children can be so adorable, but she was so creepy. Still, we have to be careful - I may recognize her, but no one else would. They'd just assume she was a little girl and therefore not a threat. Even worse, I couldn't sense her energy."

"That's because she's not a wanderer herself. She just controls them all - there normal wanderers that appear via energy fluctuations, and then there are the ones she can summon instantly - the one you dealt with last night. We're trying to figure out why she has appeared and what she wants."

Thomasin looks at Xavier with worry. "This...is very intense."

Xavier met Thomasin's worried gaze with a steady one of his own, his presence a pillar of strength amidst the uncertainty. "It is intense," he agreed, "but we've faced intense before. We'll handle this the same way we handle everything else—head-on, together."

He considered Tsuki's explanation, the pieces of the puzzle slowly coming together in his mind. "If the Doll Maker controls the Wanderers, then she's the key. We stop her, we stop them," he said, his voice resolute. "We'll need to be vigilant, to watch for the signs only you can recognize, Thomasin."

Xavier's thoughts turned to the broader implications of their situation. "We should also consider the possibility that there are others like the Doll Maker, hidden threats we've yet to uncover. Our strategy must be adaptable, our eyes open to all possibilities."

He placed a reassuring hand on Thomasin's shoulder, a silent message of support. "We've got Tsuki, we've got each other, and we've got our skills. We'll train harder, become more attuned to the Wanderer energies, and whatever else it takes to protect our world."

"We're counting on you two to stop the threat - and I will do my best to help you whenever I can." Tsuki bounces up and down, showing off her faith in the duo. "And now that I'm here, I can help more, including informing you of any fluctations before you two are able to sense them, though you're probably better at it than I am, Lumiere. Tsuki out!"

Tsuki gave once last bubbly bounce before disappearing back into Thomasin's phone.

Xavier watched as Tsuki's holographic form vanished, her final bounce a testament to her energetic spirit. The room fell silent, the weight of their conversation lingering in the air. He turned to Thomasin, his expression one of quiet resolve.

"We have an ally in Tsuki, and her assistance will be invaluable," he said, acknowledging the support they had been offered. "We'll need to stay alert for her updates on energy fluctuations. It's an advantage we didn't have before."

He moved to the window, gazing out at the city that was unknowingly depending on them. "We've been given a task, and we won't fail," he continued, his voice carrying a note of promise. "We'll train, we'll prepare, and when the time comes, we'll protect this city from the Doll Maker and her Wanderers."

Xavier turned back to Thomasin, his eyes meeting hers. "We've got work to do, but we're not alone in this fight. Let's get started."

With that, he was ready to begin their next phase of preparation. The road ahead was uncertain, but Xavier knew that together with Thomasin, they would navigate any challenge. Their partnership had been forged in the fires of adversity, and it would not falter now. They were ready to face the future, whatever it might bring.

"Work? Like training? You keep saying that...what do you..." the ringing of her phone cut her off. Without thinking, she opens her phone to answer the call. "Hello - "

"YOU'RE ALIVE?! THEN WHERE THE HELL HAVE YOU BEEN, THOMASIN?! WHERE DID YOU GO TO LAST NIGHT?"

"Hi...Director." Thomasin deflates. I shouldn't have answered the phone...damn it. "Funny story about that..."

Xavier observed Thomasin's sudden shift in demeanor as the director's voice boomed through the phone, his concern for her well-being evident. He remained close, a silent source of support as she navigated the conversation with her superior.

He knew the importance of maintaining their cover stories, the delicate balance between their secret lives and the roles they played in the public eye. The director's anger was an obstacle, but one they had to manage carefully to protect the greater mission at hand.

As Thomasin spoke with the director, Xavier's mind was already formulating a plan to help her explain her absence. They would need a plausible story, something to appease the director's concerns without revealing the truth of their nocturnal activities.

When the call ended, Xavier was ready to discuss their next steps. "We'll come up with a story that satisfies the director's questions," he assured her. "And as for training, it's about honing our skills, learning to work even more closely as a team, and understanding the full extent of our abilities."

He offered her a small, encouraging smile. "We'll face this together, as we always have. And we'll come out stronger for it. For now, let's deal with the director and then focus on what we can control—our preparation for whatever the Doll Maker has planned."

Somehow, Thomasin cooked up a story that she got separated from the crowd and someone found her and took her to get help. Her director seemed a bit suspicious at first, but eventually accepted her story. Lucky for her (or unlucky for Linkon City), the wanderer attack postponed production for at least a week.

"We've got a week, Xavier. That counts for something, right?"

Xavier listened as Thomasin wove her tale for the director, a mixture of relief and pride in his eyes as she navigated the conversation with the finesse of a true storyteller. When she hung up, he could sense the tension release from her shoulders, the immediate crisis averted.

"A week is a gift," he affirmed, acknowledging the silver lining in the midst of chaos. "It gives us time to train, to plan, and to understand our enemy better. We'll use it wisely."

He stepped towards her, his gaze steady and reassuring. "We'll start with the basics, sharpen our reflexes, and then work on more advanced techniques. We'll also need to sync our movements, learn to anticipate each other's actions in battle."

Xavier's voice carried the weight of their responsibility, but also the promise of their potential. "A week from now, we'll be more prepared than we've ever been. The Doll Maker won't know what hit her."

He offered a hand to Thomasin, a silent invitation to begin their journey of preparation. "Let's get started, partner. We have a world to protect."

With that, Xavier was ready to lead them into a rigorous week of training. Together, they would push their limits, forge a deeper bond, and ready themselves for the inevitable confrontation with the Doll Maker. The week ahead would be challenging, but Xavier knew that with Thomasin by his side, they were unstoppable.

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Dedicated to the Moonlight

A friend of mine suggested that this music from Final Fantasy XIV would work for Lumiere and Stellaluna, and it totally does! Maybe I should start playing that game...

Anyway, if there's a fight scene and they are transformed, play this song for ambience!

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter Four: Midnight Shadows

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

As Thomasin navigated the complexities of her dual life, balancing the demands of her writing career with her responsibilities as Stellaluna, Xavier remained a steadfast presence in the background. He was aware of her meeting with the director and the rising star, Christian de Arias, and had silently wished her success. Their partnership extended beyond the battlefield; it encompassed the entirety of their lives, each supporting the other in their individual pursuits.

However, the unease that Thomasin felt upon meeting Christian did not go unnoticed by Xavier. Even from a distance, their connection allowed him to sense when something was amiss. He had always been attuned to the subtle shifts in her emotions, a silent guardian ready to step in when needed.

Xavier found himself on edge, his instincts telling him that the weird feelings Thomasin experienced were not without cause. He prepared himself for the possibility of action, knowing that the line between their ordinary lives and their roles as protectors of the city was often blurred.

As Thomasin hoped for an interruption, Xavier was already on the move. He had learned to trust their instincts, to heed the warnings that often preceded danger. He made his way discreetly towards the location of the meeting, blending into the shadows, his eyes scanning for any sign of trouble.

Xavier's priority was Thomasin's safety, and he would do whatever it took to ensure that no harm came to her, whether from a Wanderer or any other threat. He positioned himself where he could keep a watchful eye on the meeting, ready to intervene at a moment's notice.

The tension in the air was palpable, a silent battle of wills between the ordinary and the extraordinary aspects of their lives. Xavier stood ready, a silent sentinel in the face of the unknown, his loyalty to Thomasin unwavering. Whatever the source of her unease, he would face it with her, together as Lumiere and Stellaluna, partners in every sense of the word.

The energy from the potential threat only increased as Thomasin forged ahead with the meeting. There was no excusing herself from it - the director would have her arse if she tried to leave, especially since the show's big star was here. And while she had a smile plastered on their face as they discussed the script, Thomasin was suffering. The overwhelming feeling of dread was too much, but being unable to say something without bringing suspicion to herself was even worse.

She looks at her phone - where was Xavier? Surely, he had sensed this too. Why wasn't he trying to contact her? She tries not to pout. She knows better than to assume that her partner has left her in the lurch, but at the same time, Thomasin wishes he'd somehow get her out of this mess.

"Thomasin!" the loud voice of the director brings her back to reality. "Are you okay? You look awful."

"I...um...I'm fine, just a little under the weather." She laughs nervously, struggling to keep it together.

"Sir, your writer seems to be out of sorts here, perhaps we should meet at another time," Christian suggests. 

"Oh no, that's fine..." Thomasin waves off the concern. "Besides, you're a busy man and I'm sure you have more to do. I'll just..."

BOOM! The glass of the windows went flying as the entire room shook violently. The screams of her co-workers was the last thing Thomasin heard as she went flying across the room, hitting the floor with a hard crack.

Xavier's senses were on high alert, the tension in the air almost tangible as he monitored the situation from a discreet distance. He could feel the undercurrent of dread that Thomasin was experiencing, a silent alarm that echoed his own concerns. He knew better than to make direct contact in such a public setting, where any unusual behavior could compromise both their identities.

He was poised to act, to swoop in and extract Thomasin from the meeting if the threat materialized, but he also trusted her strength and her ability to maintain composure under pressure. She was more than capable, a fact he never doubted.

However, the sudden explosion shattered the illusion of normalcy, sending shockwaves through the building and chaos into the hearts of those inside. Xavier's reaction was immediate and instinctual. As the glass burst and the room convulsed, he was already moving, his body a blur of motion as he raced towards the epicenter of the disturbance.

Thomasin's form crumpled to the floor, and Xavier's heart clenched at the sight. There was no time for hesitation, no moment to spare. He burst into the room, his identity as Xavier momentarily cast aside, replaced by the resolute figure of Lumiere.

"Thomasin!" he called out, his voice cutting through the cacophony of screams and confusion. He was at her side in an instant, assessing her condition with a practiced eye. "Stay with me," he urged, his hands steady as he checked for injuries.

Around them, the chaos continued, but Xavier's focus was singular—Thomasin's safety was his only concern. He could hear the distant wail of sirens, the city's response to the sudden attack, but he knew that their immediate survival depended on his actions.

With a swift movement, he scooped Thomasin into his arms, her weight familiar and yet so fragile in this moment of crisis. He moved with her towards the nearest exit, his senses alert for any further danger.

As Lumiere, Xavier was a beacon of hope, a protector against the darkness. As Xavier, he was a friend, a partner, and in this moment, Thomasin's guardian. He would shield her with his own body if necessary, carry her to safety, and stand against whatever force had dared to threaten their peace.

The night had taken a violent turn, but together, as Lumiere and Stellaluna, they would face it head-on. Their partnership was their strength, and in the face of adversity, they would not falter.

Thomasin recovered consciousness fairly quickly, a familiar voice flowing in her ears. "Xavier..." Her eyes opened, blurring into focus, and there he was, carrying her in his arms. "Xavier! It's you! What happened? Why didn't you call me?!"

Xavier's relief was palpable as Thomasin's eyes fluttered open, her voice, though laced with confusion and distress, was the sweetest sound amidst the chaos. "You're safe now, that's what matters," he said, his voice a calm anchor as he navigated through the debris and turmoil.

"I was here the whole time, keeping watch," he continued, his tone reassuring. "The situation didn't allow for a call without risking our covers. But I'm here now, and I've got you."

As he spoke, Xavier's eyes remained vigilant, scanning their surroundings for any signs of danger while he carried her to safety. The explosion had been unexpected, a violent interruption that had thrown their world into disarray, but his priority had not wavered—Thomasin's well-being was his foremost concern.

"We need to get you checked out, make sure you're not injured," Xavier said, his protective instincts in full force. "Once we're clear of this place, we can figure out what happened and how to respond."

The bond between them, forged in the fires of countless battles, was a testament to their resilience. Xavier knew that together, they could overcome any obstacle, face any threat. As he held Thomasin close, he was reminded of the depth of their partnership, the unspoken vows they had made to stand by each other, no matter what the world threw their way.

In the aftermath of the explosion, as the dust settled and the reality of their situation sank in, Xavier was more determined than ever to keep Thomasin safe, to be the shield against the darkness that sought to engulf them. They were partners, in every sense, and nothing would break the bond they shared.

"It's a wanderer, isn't it? My co-workers!" She tries to move, but her body fails her, Xavier catching her before she falls. "The explosion came out of nowhere...it sent me flying. But I can't keep going like this, we need to help them!"

Xavier tightened his grip on Thomasin as she attempted to move, her determination shining through despite the shock and pain that wracked her body. "Easy, Thomasin. You've been through a shock; your body needs a moment," he said, his voice firm yet gentle, a reminder that she was not alone in this.

"It's likely a Wanderer, yes," he confirmed, his eyes scanning the area for any sign of the creature. "But you need to focus on recovering. I'll handle the immediate threat. That's what partners do—we look out for each other."

He could see the conflict in her eyes, the innate desire to protect others that drove her just as much as it did him. "Your co-workers are being evacuated as we speak. The emergency services are here, and I'll join the efforts to ensure everyone's safety."

Xavier's resolve was unbreakable, his commitment to their cause unwavering. "Trust me, Thomasin. I'll take care of the Wanderer and our colleagues. You've done your part; now let me do mine."

With a swift but careful motion, Xavier set Thomasin down in a safe spot, away from the immediate danger. He looked into her eyes, the silent communication between them speaking volumes. "Stay here and stay hidden. I'll be back for you as soon as I can."

Turning away from her, Xavier transformed into the embodiment of Lumiere, his every sense heightened, his body ready for combat. He moved with purpose, his lightblade at the ready, his mind focused on the task at hand. The Wanderer would not escape his vigilance, and he would not allow further harm to come to those under his protection.

As he stepped into the fray, Xavier carried with him the trust and faith of his partner, the knowledge that together, they were a force to be reckoned with. And though he fought alone, he was never truly solitary, for the spirit of Stellaluna was with him, her courage and resolve fueling his own.

Thomasin watches as he transforms into Lumiere. Her eyes shimmer with the light of the moon. "You better come back, Lumiere. Or I'll never forgive you."

Xavier, now fully Lumiere, cast a glance back at Thomasin, his silhouette framed by the chaos around them. Her words, a blend of concern and command, resonated with him, a silent vow that tethered him to her. "I will," he promised, the words barely above a whisper but heavy with the weight of his resolve.

He turned away, his figure disappearing into the fray, a shadow among shadows, a guardian moving with purpose. The light of the moon reflected off his lightblade, casting an ethereal glow that seemed to dance with the determination in Thomasin's shimmering eyes.

As Lumiere, Xavier was a force of nature, his movements precise and calculated, his focus singular. He was the hunter, the protector, the unwavering sentinel against the darkness that threatened to consume their city. And as Xavier, he was a partner, a friend, a confidant, bound to Thomasin by a bond that was as unbreakable as it was unspoken.

The battle raged, the clash of light and shadow, the sound of his lightblade cutting through the air, a symphony of defiance against the Wanderer's malice. And through it all, Xavier held onto the promise he had made, the assurance that he would return to Thomasin, that they would face the aftermath of this night together.

For in the end, it was not just the city that they were fighting for, but each other, the shared moments of quiet understanding, the laughter and the camaraderie, the partnership that had become the cornerstone of their existence. And Xavier would move heaven and earth to keep that promise, to return to her side, as Lumiere, as Xavier, as her unwavering partner in all things.

As Lumiere engaged the wanderer, Thomasin continued to hide, still recovering from her injuries. The presence started her - she turned to face it, her mystical duel blades appearing in her hands to defend against the threat. But the threat didn't seem like a threat at all - it was a little girl, dressed in black with a white apron stood, hair as black as night. A crow was perched on her shoulder, and a pout plastered on her face.

"Oh my, I'm so sorry!" The blades refuse to disappear, so Thomasin hides them behind her back. That should have been her first clue. "What's wrong, little girl? Are you lost?"

The little girl's eyes narrowed. "You're so mean - why do you keep messing with my toys?"

Thomasin gave her a quizzical look. "What do you mean by that? I don't understand. Did you lose your toy? Actually, you should get out of this place. It's dangerous here. Where are your parents?"

"You're a bad person who won't stop ruining my toys! And now, I'm going to ruin you!"

"Huh?" The overwhelming feeling of dread hit her at full force. Before her eyes, the girl disappeared into black feathers, a menacing bipedal wanderer taking her place. It hissed at her, ready to strike. She has no time to transform, but her dual blades are ready to duel. "You've gotta be kidding me!"

Lumiere's battle with the Wanderer was fierce and unyielding, his lightblade a beacon amidst the darkness. But even as he fought, part of his awareness remained with Thomasin, a silent thread of concern woven through the fabric of his focus.

The sudden presence that startled Thomasin also sent a ripple of alarm through Xavier. He trusted her strength, her ability to handle herself in a fight, but the unexpected appearance of a child in such a volatile situation was a variable he had not anticipated.

As the little girl revealed her true nature, transforming into a menacing Wanderer, Xavier felt a surge of protectiveness. Thomasin, caught off guard and still reeling from her injuries, was at a disadvantage. He knew he needed to end his own battle swiftly to come to her aid.

With a final, decisive strike, Lumiere dispatched the Wanderer he faced, its form dissipating into the ether from which it came. Without a moment's hesitation, he turned and sprinted towards Thomasin's location, his every sense alert, his resolve as sharp as the blade he wielded.

Thomasin stood her ground, her dual blades at the ready, a testament to her courage and her refusal to back down, even when caught unprepared. "Hold on, Thomasin!" Lumiere called out as he closed the distance between them, his voice cutting through the tension.

The Wanderer hissed, its form a swirling mass of darkness and malice, but Lumiere was undeterred. He arrived at Thomasin's side, his lightblade joining her mystical dual blades in a dance of light and shadow. Together, they stood against the creature, partners in battle as they had been countless times before.

The fight was intense, the Wanderer's power amplified by its ability to deceive and manipulate. But Lumiere and Thomasin were a force to be reckoned with, their movements synchronized, their determination unshakable.

With each strike, each parry, they pushed the Wanderer back, their combined strength overwhelming the creature. And in the end, it was their unity, their unwavering bond, that sealed the Wanderer's fate, banishing it back to the darkness from which it had emerged.

Breathing heavily, Lumiere turned to Thomasin, his concern evident even behind the mask of the hero. "Are you alright?" he asked, his voice tinged with the adrenaline of the fight and the relief of their victory.

Together, they had faced the unexpected, had stood side by side against the darkness, and emerged victorious. And as the dust settled, and the night reclaimed its stillness, they were reminded once again of the strength they found in each other, of the partnership that was their greatest weapon against the chaos of the world.

"Y-yeah. I think. But I need a vacation." Her blades disappear, and she slumps to the ground, exhausted. "Thank you...I don't think I could have taken that wander untransformed, but I wasn't going down without a fight."

Lumiere knelt beside Thomasin as she slumped to the ground, the adrenaline that had fueled her bravery now giving way to exhaustion. He offered a supportive arm, a silent acknowledgment of her resilience. "You fought bravely, as always," he said, his voice carrying the warmth of admiration and the unspoken promise of support.

"A vacation sounds like a wise idea," he agreed, a small smile playing at the edge of his lips, the tension of the moment easing ever so slightly. "You've earned it. We both have."

He helped her to her feet, his touch steady and sure. "But first, let's get you somewhere safe to rest and recover," he continued, his concern for her well-being taking precedence over the weariness that clung to his own frame.

As they moved away from the scene of the battle, Xavier remained vigilant, his senses still attuned to any potential threats. The night had been fraught with danger, but they had emerged victorious, their partnership proving once again to be an indomitable force.

Once they were at a safe distance, Lumiere's form shimmered, and he was Xavier once more, the hero's mantle set aside for the quiet comfort of familiarity. "I'll be here, Thomasin," he assured her, his presence a constant in the ever-shifting landscape of their lives. "Whenever you need me, for battles against Wanderers or for a well-deserved break, I'm by your side."

"Is the other wanderer gone?" she knows the answer - she just wants him to say it. "I know I'm never going to hear the end of this from the director. Once he finds out that I'm okay, he's going to wonder why I felt from the scene." She shakes her head. "I'll figure out something."

"And I know you've got my back. Tonight made that abundantly clear. But what I don't know is why that little appeared out of nowhere, accusing me of 'ruining her toys' or something. Even worse, my blades could sense the danger, but I couldn't."

Xavier nodded, his gaze steady and reassuring. "The other Wanderer is no more," he confirmed, his voice carrying the certainty of his actions. "You don't need to worry about that threat any longer."

He listened as Thomasin contemplated the inevitable questions she would face from the director, her mind already turning over the possible explanations. "You'll think of something," he said, his faith in her ingenuity unwavering. "You always do."

The mention of the little girl and her cryptic accusation brought a thoughtful frown to Xavier's face. "It's troubling," he admitted. "Wanderers are unpredictable, but this... it's different. It suggests a level of sentience we haven't seen before."

He paused, considering her words about her blades and the danger they sensed. "Your instincts are sharp, Thomasin. If your blades reacted, then you did sense the danger, even if it wasn't conscious. We'll need to be even more vigilant going forward."

Xavier's protective nature was at the forefront, his mind already analyzing the encounter, searching for clues that might shed light on the Wanderer's behavior. "We'll figure it out together," he assured her. "For now, let's focus on getting you some rest. We can unravel this mystery with clear heads."

"I don't think she was the wanderer - but I do think she made it appear," Thomasin says. Her body is giving out - she won't be able to make it to her apartment without falling unconscious again. "Here's a weird question - can I crash on your couch tonight? I don't think I'm going to...make it home like..."

She never finishes the sentence.

Xavier caught Thomasin as her strength waned, her words trailing off into silence. He held her close, her vulnerability a stark contrast to the fierce warrior she was in battle. "Of course, you can," he whispered, though she was already slipping into unconsciousness, unable to hear his words.

With a gentle yet firm grip, Xavier lifted Thomasin into his arms, her trust in him implicit even in her weakened state. He made his way to his apartment, the one place he knew she would be safe and could rest undisturbed. The night's events had taken their toll, and now more than ever, she needed the sanctuary he could provide.

As he entered his home, the familiar surroundings greeted him—a haven of books and flowers, a balcony where the plants thrived under his care. He maneuvered through the space with ease, carrying Thomasin to the couch that would serve as her bed for the night.

Xavier took a moment to ensure she was comfortable, tucking a blanket around her and watching for any sign of distress. Her breathing was even, and her face, though pale, was peaceful in repose. He would remain vigilant throughout the night, ready to protect her from any danger, be it from Wanderers or the simple nightmares that might plague her sleep.

The mystery of the little girl and her connection to the Wanderer lingered in his mind, a puzzle yet to be solved. But for now, his priority was Thomasin's recovery. He would be there when she awoke, ready to face the questions and challenges of the new day together.

Xavier settled into a chair nearby, his eyes occasionally drifting to the figure on the couch. In the quiet of the early morning, with the chaos of the night behind them, he allowed himself a moment of reflection. Their lives were a tapestry of battles and quiet moments like this, each thread woven with care and a deep sense of companionship.

As the first light of dawn crept into the room, Xavier remained a silent guardian, watching over Thomasin, his thoughts a blend of concern for her and determination to unravel the enigma that had presented itself. They would find the answers, of that he was certain, for together, there was nothing they could not overcome.

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter Three: A Meeting with Destiny

||LEGEND||

Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

Thomasin arrives at Xavier's apartment, which luckily isn't too far away from hers. When he answers the door, she holds up bags of food and drink. "Hope you like braised chicken, steamed rice, and C.C. Lemon soda!"

Xavier's face lit up at the sight of Thomasin standing at his doorstep, the bags of food and drink in her hands a testament to her thoughtfulness. "Braised chicken and steamed rice sound perfect, and C.C. Lemon is a favorite of mine," he said, stepping aside to let her in. "You've chosen well."

As Thomasin entered, Xavier took a moment to appreciate how the warmth of her presence seemed to fill the space, turning his usually quiet apartment into a place of laughter and light. He led her to the dining area, helping her set down the food and drinks on the table.

"Thank you for this," Xavier said, his gratitude genuine. "It's been a while since I've had company over for dinner. I'm looking forward to it."

The apartment, with its books and plants, offered a cozy backdrop to their evening. Xavier poured them each a glass of C.C. Lemon soda, the fizzing sound adding to the casual, comfortable atmosphere.

As they settled in to enjoy the meal, Xavier found himself genuinely relaxed, the usual weight of his responsibilities momentarily lifted. The food, delicious and comforting, was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, made all the more enjoyable by Thomasin's company.

"Tell me about your day," Xavier encouraged, eager to hear more about her experiences and to share in the ups and downs of her life. "And let's make a pact to leave the world-saving talk for another time. Tonight, it's just about us, enjoying good food and good company."

"Dude, you know about my day - I was the talk of all those group chat messages and nobody even knew it." She prepares him a plate of food. "At least I got my work done and the director likes the revisions. So that's good, right?"

Xavier accepted the plate with a nod, his expression one of understanding. "Right, the group chats," he said, acknowledging the whirlwind that had surrounded her. "But it's impressive, isn't it? How you balance the demands of your secret identity with your professional life. Not everyone can say they've saved the city and met a deadline on the same day."

He took a bite of the braised chicken, savoring the flavors that Thomasin had brought into his home. "And yes, it's more than good. It's a testament to your dedication and talent. The director's approval is well-deserved."

Xavier's gaze met hers, a silent recognition of the effort she put into every aspect of her life. "You should be proud, Thomasin. Not just for the work you do as Stellaluna, but for the victories you achieve as yourself."

"Maybe not, but I would like to get some more sleep out of it." Xavier was right, though. It amazed her how many impossible things she found herself doing now that she was Stellaluna. It's funny how the girl who believed she was very very ordinary was anything but. "And while I'm glad I was able to save the world and meet my deadline, it's weird knowing that half you male co-workers want a crack at dating you." She grimaced. "Meanwhile, as Thomasin, they don't even know that I exist - not that I mind, by the way."

Xavier listened, a thoughtful expression on his face as Thomasin shared her reflections. "Sleep is a rare commodity in our line of work," he agreed, acknowledging the physical and mental toll their dual lives often demanded. "But remember, it's the extraordinary things you do that define you, not the recognition or lack thereof from others."

He paused, considering her words about her male co-workers. "It's a strange dichotomy, isn't it? Being idolized one moment and overlooked the next. But those who truly matter, those who deserve to be in your life, will see Thomasin for who she is, not just Stellaluna."

Xavier's voice was firm, his words meant to reassure. "You're remarkable, Thomasin, with or without the mask. The strength, courage, and heart you show as Stellaluna are just as present in your everyday life. And anyone who fails to see that is missing out."

He offered her a smile, a gesture of solidarity and understanding. "Besides, it's their loss, not yours. You have people in your life who value and appreciate you for who you are, mask or no mask. Like me."

The evening had turned into a moment of reflection and affirmation, a chance for both Xavier and Thomasin to appreciate the complexities of their lives and the strength they drew from each other. As they continued to talk, the bond between them deepened, a mutual respect and admiration that transcended their superhero personas.

For Xavier, being able to offer support and understanding to Thomasin was a privilege, a reminder of the importance of genuine connections in a world that often valued superficiality. And as the night drew to a close, he knew that their friendship was a source of strength for both of them, a light in the darkness that guided them through the challenges they faced.

"Xavier, you're to sweet for your own good." She pinches her fingers together, as if to mimic pinching his cheek, like a overzealous auntie greeting a young nephew or niece. "You sure know how to make a girl feel special. Good thing too, since I'm you're partner and all."

"And I know you see both sides of me and I appreciate that." Her eyes were soft and full of warmth. "I mean, I don't know how you put up with me, considering you're practically built to be a hero and I was just a writer before I put on the mask. It's only because of you that I haven't been offed by one of those wanderers, so...thank you. For all of that."

Xavier watched the playful gesture, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "It's not about being sweet," he said, his voice carrying a note of sincerity. "It's about speaking the truth. You've earned every bit of respect and admiration, Thomasin, both as my partner and as yourself."

He leaned back slightly, taking in her warm gaze, the softness in her eyes that spoke volumes of the trust and camaraderie they shared. "You give yourself too little credit. Being a hero isn't about what you're built for; it's about the choices you make when faced with darkness. You chose to stand up, to fight, to protect. That's what makes you a hero, not the mask."

Xavier's expression softened, a rare display of vulnerability. "And as for putting up with you," he continued, "it's not a burden, it's a privilege. You bring a perspective, a humanity to our partnership that's irreplaceable. You've saved me just as often, in ways you might not even realize."

He reached across the table, his gesture one of solidarity and reassurance. "We're a team, Thomasin. We balance each other out, and that's why we're effective. So, thank you, for being brave, for being you, and for choosing to stand by my side."

The gratitude and respect between them was a tangible thing, a connection that had been forged through shared battles and quiet moments like these. Xavier knew that their partnership was unique, a blend of strengths and vulnerabilities that made them not just effective, but also human.

As the night wound down, and the conversation turned to lighter topics, Xavier was reminded once again of the importance of their bond. In a world where they often stood apart, together, they were a force to be reckoned with, partners in every sense of the word.

"How have I...you know what, never mind." She wanted to ask him more about what he meant - saving him just as often in ways she didn't realize - but she let it drop. She got the feeling that it was pretty personal, and while they were partners, she knew better than to pry about topics that were considered out of bounds. "She takes his hand, shaking it. "I've got your back, Xavier. As long as we're together, those Wanderers don't stand a chance."

They spend a little bit more time together before Thomasin made her way home. She had a meeting with the director tomorrow and she wanted to be well-rested beforehand. She hoped that any wanderers that planned on making an appearance did so AFTER her meeting. 

She felt the weirdness just before she made it to her front door - the feeling of being watched. She scanned the area but found no signs of any one else, let alone a pair of eyes looking her way. With a sign, she entered the building, closing the door behind her. She made a note to mention it to her partner later.

High above the trees, a crow looks at Thomasin entering the building, a smirk how plastered on it's jet black beak.

Xavier watched from his balcony as Thomasin made her way back to her own apartment, the night's stillness wrapping around him like a cloak. He felt the weight of her handshake, the firm promise in her grip that spoke of unyielding support and partnership. "We'll stand against them, together," he had assured her, his voice steady with conviction.

As she disappeared from view, Xavier's senses remained alert, attuned to the subtle shifts in the night air, the quiet movements that most would overlook. He knew the dangers that lurked in the shadows, the ever-present threat of the Wanderers. It was a reality they both lived with, a constant undercurrent to their lives.

When Thomasin's feeling of being watched reached him, a ripple in the calm surface of their shared understanding, Xavier's gaze sharpened. He scanned the area, his hunter's instincts on high alert. Though he saw nothing amiss, the unease lingered, a whisper of something amorphous and unseen.

He made a mental note to discuss it with Thomasin, to ensure they were both prepared for whatever might come their way. The partnership they shared was more than just a tactical alliance; it was a bond of trust and mutual protection.

As the crow above observed with its inscrutable gaze, Xavier couldn't shake the feeling that this was a harbinger, a sign of something yet to unfold. He would remain vigilant, watching over Thomasin and the city they both called home.

With a final sweep of the area, Xavier retreated into his apartment, the door closing with a soft click behind him. The night was far from over, and he would spend it as he often did, a silent guardian poised between the darkness and the light.

Lumiere and Stellaluna were still the talk of the town - or at least during Thomasin's meeting with the director. She was the script writer for a romance drama starring Christian de Arias, a new actor who gained popularity with the masses very quickly. It was the first time she worked with such a top name so she was bringing her a-game into writing, secret crime-fighting and all. 

Just like Stellaluna allowed no wanderer to harm the city on her watch, Thomasin the writer refused to drop the ball when it came to her writing.

Upon entering the meeting, the director was chatting with Christian when he spotted Thomasin. Despite being as dreamy as everyone said, Thomasin didn't seem to swoon in his presence like everyone else. Or maybe that was due to the weird feelings she started getting the moment introduced herself to him by name. 

Oh hell...WHY NOW? She patted her phone in her pocket, hoping that it would ring really soon. I thought I said no wanderers better show up during my meeting!

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter Two: Thomasin and Xavier || Out of Costume

||LEGEND||

Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

“Ah...I don’t know if I’ll ever get used to this Xavier!” If Xavier was the steadfast sentinel ready to protect Linkon City at the drop of a hat, then Thomasin was his partner who appeared to be calm and collected on the outside, but was anything but. “I’m used to writing about evil people, not actually fighting them!”

Thomasin looks at her phone – the reason for all this insanity. Her life changed when, while playing her beloved game, a message popped up on her screen, asking her if she wanted to become Stellaluna for real. She didn’t think much of it when she pressed “yes”, thinking it was just some pop-up ad for another game or a publicity stunt. 

Spoiler alert – it was definitely not a pop-up ad or a publicity stunt

Xavier listened to Thomasin's confession, her words tinged with the incredulity of someone still coming to terms with the surreal turn her life had taken. He understood her turmoil; the line between fiction and reality had blurred in the most unexpected of ways, thrusting them both into a narrative far more complex than any she could have penned.

"You're doing more than just getting used to it, Thomasin. You're excelling," Xavier reassured her, his tone imbued with the quiet confidence he always seemed to exude. "The courage it takes to face evil not just on paper, but in the flesh... that's something few can claim."

He glanced at the phone in her hand, the device that had served as the catalyst for their extraordinary partnership. It was a small piece of technology that held the power to alter destinies, a bridge between the world of fantasy and the stark reality of their battles.

"It may not have been what you expected when you pressed 'yes'," Xavier continued, his gaze returning to the cityscape, "but I believe some things are meant to happen. Our meeting, this partnership... it's as if the universe conspired to bring us together for a reason."

Xavier offered her a small, reassuring smile, a rare glimpse into the warmth he kept shielded behind his stoic exterior. "And I, for one, am grateful for that twist of fate."

As they stood side by side, the night's silence enveloping them, Xavier felt a sense of solidarity with Thomasin. They were two individuals caught in the whirlwind of destiny, fighting side by side against the darkness that threatened their world. And though the path ahead was uncertain, one thing was clear: they would navigate it together, as allies, as friends, as protectors of Linkon City.

"Well, awkwardness aside, I'm glad we were able to take down that dragon together without anyone having to lose their life to it." With a sigh, Thomasin lied down on rooftop, the night sky full of stars that seemed to expand for ages. "Of course, this means I'm going to have to work extra hard to meet my deadline now or else I'll get in trouble with the director of the drama I'm working for, but it's fine." She looks at Xavier, giving him a smile and a thumbs up. "If Stellaluna can take down wanderers, then Thomasin can meet a deadline without breaking a sweat."

Xavier watched as Thomasin lay back, her gaze lost in the celestial tapestry above them. The stars shone with a quiet intensity, each one a silent witness to the countless stories unfolding beneath them. He appreciated her resilience, the way she balanced the weight of her newfound responsibilities with the demands of her everyday life.

"Your strength is not just in battle, Thomasin," Xavier said, his voice a soft echo in the vastness of the night. "It's in the way you face every challenge, whether it's a dragon Wanderer or a looming deadline. You carry the same determination in both worlds."

He crouched down beside her, his own eyes reflecting the starlight. "And remember, the same focus that allows Stellaluna to prevail is what will see Thomasin through her work. You're one and the same, after all."

Xavier's smile mirrored hers, a shared understanding between them. "Besides," he added with a lightness that belied the depth of their recent ordeal, "I have no doubt that you'll meet your deadline with time to spare. And if you need a break, or someone to run lines with, you know where to find me."

In the quiet moments that followed, Xavier allowed himself to simply be, to exist alongside Thomasin in a world that seemed, for a brief time, at peace. The night was their sanctuary, a place where they could shed the weight of their dual identities and just breathe.

As the stars continued their ancient dance above them, Xavier and Thomasin shared the rooftop in companionable silence, each lost in their own thoughts yet united by the bond they had forged. The night was still young, and the city below them slumbered, unaware of the guardians who watched over it, ever vigilant, ever ready.

"Someone to run lines with, take breaks with, and all that fun stuff? Oh, Xavier you just made a mistake because I'm taking you up on all of that!" 

She laughs, trying not to stare at him too much. She was a woman after all - and Xavier was a very handsome man, definitely easy to look at. But at the same time, he was more than just a pretty face.  She was still getting used to her new identity, but Xavier made the process so much easier. He was quickly becoming important to her, a balm to her normally solitary existence filled with deadlines, creative slumps, snacks - lots and lots of snacks.

"I just hope that the next encounter doesn't happen for a long time." Thomasin sighs, her face pensive. "I wish I knew why this was happening. It was all so peaceful before."

Xavier's chuckle was a soft rumble, a sound that seemed to blend seamlessly with the night. "A mistake, you say? I consider it an opportunity," he countered, the faintest hint of playfulness threading through his words. "I look forward to it, Thomasin. All of it."

He noticed her laughter, the way she tried to temper her gaze. Xavier was aware of the effect he sometimes had on others, but with Thomasin, it was different. There was a depth to their connection that transcended appearances, a mutual respect that had been forged in the fires of adversity and the quiet moments that followed.

"You're not alone in this," Xavier assured her, his voice a steady anchor in the sea of uncertainty that surrounded them. "Whatever comes our way, we'll face it together. And in the meantime, we'll find the answers you're looking for."

He shared her wish for peace, the longing for a return to simpler times. Yet, he also knew that their reality had shifted, that the emergence of the Wanderers had irrevocably changed the fabric of their world.

"The peace we knew may have been disturbed, but perhaps it's a chance for us to grow, to discover strengths we never knew we had," Xavier mused, his gaze turning thoughtful. "And while the reasons behind these events remain shrouded in mystery, I have faith that we'll uncover the truth."

Xavier's presence was a calming force, a reminder that in the midst of chaos, there was still a semblance of order to be found. He was there for Thomasin, not just as a fellow warrior but as a friend, someone who understood the solitude of her previous life and the whirlwind of change she now faced.

As they sat together, the city's heartbeat a distant lullaby, Xavier knew that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges. But with Thomasin by his side, with their shared laughter and snacks, with the lines they would run and the breaks they would take, he believed they could weather any storm.

For now, they had each other, and in the grand tapestry of the universe, that was no small thing. It was a connection, a promise of support, and a beacon of hope in a world that had suddenly grown far more complicated.

"I know we will, Xavier. You're the kind of person who means what he says, so I know we'll figure it out together." With a sad sigh, she stands up from the ground, dusting herself of. "As much as I enjoy this, that script ain't gonna revise itself. I have to go. But...maybe we can hang out sometime, right? Or does being partners mean we only hang out when a wanderer is trying take us out - and I don't mean on a fancy date!"

Xavier rose to his feet as Thomasin did, his movements graceful and assured. Her words, imbued with trust and a shared resolve, bolstered his spirit. It was a rare thing, to find someone who not only matched his determination but also understood the depth of the commitment they had made to each other.

"Of course, we'll hang out," Xavier responded, his tone leaving no room for doubt. "Being partners isn't just about facing Wanderers together. It's about supporting each other, in battles and beyond." His smile was genuine, a softening of his usually stoic expression. "And I assure you, not all our hangouts will involve life-threatening situations. We might even manage that fancy date, without any unexpected interruptions."

He watched as she prepared to leave, the night's earlier events casting a long shadow over their brief respite. "Just let me know when you're free. Whether it's for script revisions, a break from deadlines, or just to enjoy some snacks without the world needing saving, I'm there."

As Thomasin made her way to leave, Xavier felt a twinge of reluctance at the parting. Their partnership had evolved into something far more meaningful than either of them could have anticipated. It was a bond forged in the crucible of adversity, strengthened by moments of vulnerability and shared laughter.

"Take care, Thomasin," he called out softly, his gaze lingering on her retreating figure. "And remember, you're not alone in this. Not anymore."

The night reclaimed its silence as Xavier stood alone on the rooftop, the city's lights a distant, twinkling canvas. The challenges they faced were daunting, the path ahead uncertain. But in the companionship they had found in each other, there was a glimmer of hope, a promise of support and understanding that transcended the chaos of their lives. And as the stars watched over them, Xavier knew that whatever the future held, they would face it together, as partners, as friends, as allies in a world that had suddenly grown far more complex.

"Fancy date?" Thomasin's cheeks went beet red. She whirled around so he wouldn't see how flustered she was. "St-stop! You're embarrassing me!"

With a nod and a giggle, Thomasin begins to back away, once again given the opportunity to get used to her teleportation abilities. "Take care, Lumiere," she says with a wink before beaming away.

Xavier's lips curled into a faint, knowing smile as he watched Thomasin's cheeks flush with color. Her flustered reaction was endearing, a rare glimpse into the vulnerability she often masked with humor and bravado. He had no intention of truly embarrassing her, but the playful banter was a welcome change from the gravity of their usual encounters.

"Until next time, Stellaluna," Xavier replied, his voice a gentle tease as he returned her wink. He watched as she prepared to engage her teleportation abilities, a marvel of technology that had become an integral part of their lives. It was a reminder of how far they had both come, of the extraordinary journey that had brought them to this moment.

With a flash of light, Thomasin was gone, leaving Xavier alone on the rooftop once more. The space where she had stood moments before seemed to hold the echo of her laughter, the warmth of her presence. He stood there for a while, allowing himself to bask in the afterglow of their shared victory and the camaraderie that had blossomed between them.

As the night reclaimed its stillness, Xavier felt a sense of contentment wash over him. Their partnership had grown into something truly special, a bond that extended beyond the battles they fought. And though the future was uncertain, filled with unknown threats and challenges, he knew that together, they were stronger.

With a final glance at the stars above, Xavier turned and made his way from the rooftop, his thoughts lingering on the promise of tomorrow.

[The Next Day]

It took way longer than she wanted, but Thomasin got her revisions completed, sending them over to director just before the deadline. The director, ever the consummate yet anxious professional, wasted no time thanking her for making the script even better. Satisfied with her work, she prepared to get some rest before tackling the next chapter of her online serial. But she barely got to lie down before all the messages from her group chats started rolling in.

Did you see the pictures? That wanderer that showed up near downtown got taken out by Lumiere and Stellaluna!

Dang, do you see how well they work together? that wanderer had no chance!

OMG, have you seen Lumiere? He's so hot! I wish I could meet him in person!

Do you think Stellaluna has a boyfriend?

Thomasin plops down on her bed, feeling exhausted. "You've gotta be kidding me," she murmurs, suddenly unable to sleep anymore.

Xavier, after a day spent in the quiet solitude of his apartment, surrounded by books and the soft hum of the city below, was unaware of the storm brewing in the digital world. He had spent the day reflecting on the previous night's events, the victory they had achieved, and the fleeting moments of connection shared with Thomasin. It was a rare day of peace, a momentary respite from the chaos that often enveloped their lives.

However, as the sun began to set, casting long shadows across his living room, a sense of restlessness took hold. He found himself drawn to the balcony, where the cool evening air and the sprawling view of the city offered a semblance of tranquility. It was there, amidst the twilight, that his thoughts inevitably drifted to Thomasin, wondering how she was faring after their latest encounter.

Deciding to reach out, Xavier sent a simple message to Thomasin, a gesture of camaraderie and concern. "Hope you're getting some well-deserved rest. The city's quieter tonight, thanks to us."

As he waited for a response, Xavier remained on the balcony, the city's lights twinkling below like a mirror to the stars above. He pondered the public's fascination with Lumiere and Stellaluna, their deeds now the subject of speculation and admiration. It was a strange feeling, to be both celebrated and shrouded in mystery, a hero in the shadows.

When Thomasin's reply came, tinged with exhaustion and disbelief at the flurry of messages she had received, Xavier couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy. He understood all too well the weight of expectations and the curious gaze of the public.

"Seems like we're the talk of the town," he replied, his message laced with a hint of amusement. "But remember, beneath the masks and the rumors, it's still just you and me. We know the truth of it, and that's what matters."

Xavier hoped to offer her a sense of solace, a reminder that beyond the personas of Lumiere and Stellaluna, they were individuals with their own lives, challenges, and victories. And while the world might speculate and idolize, their bond, forged in the heat of battle and the quiet moments that followed, was something far more real and enduring.

As the night deepened, Xavier remained a silent guardian, watching over the city and the stars, ever ready to stand beside Thomasin, to face whatever challenges lay ahead, together.

"Hey, do you mind if I come over and visit? Take you up on that offer to hang out?" she texts later that day. She might have finished her online serial update, but the messages hadn't ceased. She needed a distraction. "I'll bring food. What do you want?"

Xavier's phone lit up with the notification, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation at the prospect of Thomasin's company. The solitude of his apartment, usually a comforting presence, now seemed too quiet, too spacious. Her message was a welcome interruption to the stillness.

"Come over anytime," Xavier texted back, his response immediate and without hesitation. "Your company is all I need, but if you're bringing food, surprise me. I trust your taste."

He set his phone aside and began to tidy up the space, a small but meaningful gesture to welcome her. Xavier didn't need much—an orderly stack of books here, a quick sweep of the balcony there. The plants that adorned his living space seemed to perk up at the thought of a visitor, their leaves reaching toward the fading light.

As he prepared for her arrival, Xavier found himself looking forward to the evening ahead. Thomasin's presence brought a certain lightness to his world, a contrast to the shadows they often faced together. It was a chance to step away from their alter egos, to be simply Xavier and Thomasin, two individuals finding solace in each other's company amidst the whirlwind of their lives.

He made sure to set out some tea, anticipating that she might appreciate the warmth and comfort it offered. And as he waited for her to arrive, Xavier allowed himself a rare moment of contentment, knowing that soon, the quiet of his apartment would be filled with the sound of her laughter and the shared stories of their day-to-day lives.

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Chapter One || Enter the Moonlit Duo

||LEGEND|| Bold Text: Xavier/Lumiere (Character Bot) Italic Text: Thomasin/Stellaluna (Me)

This hasn't been checked for spelling/grammer/errors, etc - Read at your own risk!

Linkon City...but not the one that you're used to.

On the surface, Thomasin Bailey is mild-mannered and kind woman who wears large round frames and is soft spoken. She makes a living as writer - you might have read one of her online serials or watched one of the online dramas she wrote the script for. During her downtime, she loves play her favorite mobile game, where she gets to pretend to me a masked magical girl, destroying mythical monsters with her masked partner, a handsome man named Xavier, aka Lumiere. Her character's name is Stellaluna.

But the truth is the game she loves isn't just a game - it's real.

Her life changed one day when she came face to face with one of the monsters in her games - along with Xavier, who valiantly engaged with the horrific beast. Using her cellphone, she turned into Stellaluna, her character from the game and his fated partner. Together, they fight against the mythical monsters, known as Wanderers, to keep Linkon City safe from harm.

These are their adventures.

In the quiet of his apartment, Xavier pondered the dual lives that intertwined with his own. The city of Linkon, with its gleaming spires and shadowed alleys, held secrets that few could fathom. He knew of Thomasin Bailey, the writer with a gentle voice and a fierce spirit, her words weaving tales that captivated the hearts of many. Yet, it was her alter ego, Stellaluna, that danced through his thoughts—a partner in a battle that transcended the screen and bled into reality.

Xavier, known to some as Lumiere, the enigmatic hunter, allowed himself a rare smile as he considered their shared destiny. The Wanderers, those mythical beasts that threatened the peace of their world, were formidable foes, but together with Stellaluna, they were a force of balance and protection.

Tonight, the air held a charge, a whisper of an impending encounter. Xavier felt it in his bones, the call to arms that never failed to stir his ancient soul. He stood on his balcony, gazing at the stars that blanketed the night sky, their light a silent guide. The city below buzzed with life, unaware of the guardians that watched over it.

He turned, his lightblade resting against the wall, its glow a soft promise of battles to come. Xavier knew the time was near when he and Stellaluna would once again face the darkness. With a sense of resolve, he reached for his blade, the weight of it familiar and comforting in his hand.

The night was still young, and the dance of hunter and Wanderer would soon begin. Xavier, with his heart steady and his purpose clear, awaited the moment when he would stand beside Stellaluna, their fates intertwined in the symphony of battle. Together, they would keep the city safe, their story one of courage and an unspoken bond that defied the very fabric of their reality.

Thomasin was on her way home after buying some snacks from the store - there is no way she could properly write a script without snacks - when she felt it. And overwhelming sense of dread and unease. She wasn't used to it yet, but she knew what it meant. Grabbing her precious phone, she pushed a sole button, knowing that he'd be feeling this to.

"Xavier - do you feel that?"

Xavier felt the vibration of his phone before he heard the voice of Thomasin, her tone laced with the unmistakable tinge of apprehension. He had indeed felt it, the same dread that now coursed through her veins. It was a silent alarm that resonated within him, a harbinger of the chaos that was about to unfold.

"Yes," he replied, his voice a calm contrast to the storm that brewed in the distance. "I feel it. The Wanderers are close. Prepare yourself, Thomasin."

He slipped the phone into his pocket, his movements deliberate and unhurried. There was no room for panic, not when every second counted, not when the safety of Linkon City hung in the balance. Xavier's gaze swept over his apartment, the books and flowers a testament to the life he led outside of the shadows. But now, it was time to step into the role that destiny had carved out for him.

He donned his gear with practiced ease, the fabric of his costume hugging his form like a second skin. The lightblade, ever faithful, was secured at his side, its presence a silent vow to protect and to fight. Xavier's mind was clear, his focus sharp as the edge of his weapon. He was ready.

With a final glance at the tranquil space he called home, Xavier stepped out, his figure melting into the night. The city awaited, and so did Stellaluna. Together, they would confront the darkness, their bond a beacon of hope amidst the encroaching shadows. The night's tale was yet to be written, and Xavier, alongside his fated partner, would pen its verses with courage and light.

"Meet me at our usual spot. I've...got to run these snacks back home first." pause "Yes, I'll bring you some, don't worry."

Rushing into her house, she made sure her blinds were closed and she was all alone. Holding out her hand, a beautiful moon charm shimmers like diamonds. Tossing it into the air with a flourish, the symbol of a moon appears and in a flash, she is dressed in costume of Stellaluna. A beautiful masks covers her face, her eyes, usually brown, now violet and as vibrant as the galaxy. Her hair, usually brown, was as silver as the moonlight.

With a blink, she transported to their spot - the rooftop of one of the tallest buildings in the city. Standing just behind him, she places a hand on her chest.

"I will never get used to transporting like that," she says, clearly disoriented.

Xavier stood poised on the rooftop, the city's pulse thrumming beneath him like a living thing. The air was cool, the breeze carrying whispers of the night's secrets. He turned at the sound of her voice, finding Stellaluna, her transformation complete, a figure of strength and ethereal beauty against the backdrop of the cityscape.

A faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips at the mention of snacks. "I'll hold you to that," he said, his voice a soft murmur that barely rose above the wind. The sight of her, resplendent in her costume, never failed to stir something within him—a sense of camaraderie, a shared purpose that bound them beyond the ordinary.

He watched her steady herself, the disorientation from her transportation evident in her stance. Xavier stepped closer, his presence a silent offer of support. "It's a jarring experience, but you handle it with grace," he assured her, his tone imbued with the quiet confidence that so defined him.

The moment was fleeting, a brief interlude before the storm. Xavier's eyes scanned the horizon, searching for signs of the impending threat. The Wanderers were out there, lurking in the shadows, and time was of the essence.

"Are you ready, Stellaluna?" he asked, his hand resting on the hilt of his lightblade. The night called to them, a siren song of danger and duty. Together, they would answer, their wills united against whatever darkness awaited. Xavier stood by her side, a guardian of light ready to face the abyss with his fated partner. The dance was about to begin, and they were the dancers.

"Oh, well thank you," Stellaluna responds, shaking her head. "And I brought the snacks - dried mango slices and honey chips - but we'll get to that later. 

Are you ready, Stellaluna? Just as he said that, the feeling of dread grew stronger and that's when it happened - in the distance, an explosion rocked the entire city. The screech of a dragon-like wanderer pierced through the night skies, followed by the screams of the innocents fleeing from him.

"Oh, aren't you a big boy," Stellaluna said, looking over to Xavier, her Lumiere. "You ready for this?"

Xavier's gaze shifted towards the horizon, where the explosion had torn through the stillness of the night, a stark reminder of the chaos that the Wanderers could unleash. The screech of the dragon-like creature resonated through the air, a sound that spoke of ancient malice and untold power. Yet, amidst the rising tide of fear and destruction, Xavier's resolve only hardened.

He glanced at Stellaluna, her words tinged with a bravery that mirrored his own. "Always," he replied, his voice steady, a beacon of assurance in the tumultuous storm that enveloped them. The lightblade in his hand came to life, its glow a testament to the battles fought and the victories won.

Together, they stood on the precipice of conflict, two guardians against the darkness. Xavier felt the familiar surge of adrenaline, the silent acknowledgment of the challenge that lay ahead. This was their calling, a destiny woven from the threads of courage and determination.

"Let's show him what we're made of," Xavier said, his eyes locking with Stellaluna's. In that moment, there was no fear, only the unbreakable bond of two warriors ready to defend their city.

With a nod to his partner, Xavier leaped into action, his movements a blur of precision and grace. The night air rushed past him as he descended towards the chaos below, his lightblade a harbinger of hope. Stellaluna, with her own unique abilities, would be right beside him, their combined strength a formidable force against the dragon-like Wanderer.

The battle that awaited them would be fierce, a test of their resolve and their unity. But Xavier knew that together, they were unstoppable. The snacks, a promise of a moment's peace in the aftermath, would have to wait. For now, they had a city to save, and Xavier, alongside Stellaluna, was ready to face whatever darkness awaited them.

Thomasin, aka Stellaluna, watches in awe as Xavier moved to engage with the dragon Wanderer. Holding her dual blades in hand -glowing with the light of the mood, she moved to follow him, ready to help him take down their shared foe.

"Hey, wait up! I'm still getting used to this!" 

With a grace that was the opposite of her sometimes awkward personality, somehow keeping up with her partner. As she reached his side, the dragon spotted them, ready to unleash its pent-up aggressions against them. "You picked the right night to mess with the wrong duo," she says with a smirk.

Xavier's stride did not falter as he heard Stellaluna's voice, her determination fueling his own. He was a shadow in motion, a silent force converging upon the dragon Wanderer with the inevitability of nightfall. Her dual blades, aglow with lunar radiance, were a welcome sight in his peripheral vision, a reminder that he was not alone in this fight.

He couldn't help but admire her spirit, the way she balanced her inherent awkwardness with the poise of a seasoned warrior. It was a duality that resonated with him, a reflection of the many facets that made up their identities—both in and out of battle.

As the dragon turned its malevolent gaze upon them, Xavier felt the air crackle with tension. The beast was formidable, its scales shimmering with an otherworldly sheen, its eyes alight with the fury of the untamed elements. Yet, the smirk on Stellaluna's lips spoke volumes, a shared confidence that they were indeed the wrong duo to challenge.

"Let's remind him why," Xavier said, his voice low and resolute. With a swift motion, he raised his lightblade, its luminescence a stark contrast against the darkened sky. The Wanderer reared back, its maw opening to unleash a torrent of flame and fury.

In perfect sync, Xavier and Stellaluna sprang into action, their movements a dance of light and shadow. They wove between the dragon's attacks, their blades singing through the air as they struck with precision and grace. Each blow was a testament to their skill, their unity, and the unspoken oath they had taken to protect their city from the darkness that sought to consume it.

The dragon indeed picked the right day to engage with the wrong duo. Despite its best efforts, the combined efforts of Lumiere and Stellaluna were too much for it. It was a fierce clash, but eventually it was bested by the duo, screeching in pain and anger as it crashed to the ground, defeated. As it disappeared, leaving a protocore in its wake, Stellaluna let out a relieved sigh.

"We did it...and there doesn't seem to be any casualties either," she says, scanning the area. "Good work, Lumiere."

As the dragon Wanderer dissipated into the night, leaving behind only the protocore as evidence of its existence, Xavier sheathed his lightblade, the glow fading into the darkness. He turned to Stellaluna, his eyes reflecting the remnants of the battle's intensity. Her relief was palpable, a shared sentiment that resonated deeply within him. They had emerged victorious, a testament to their strength and unity.

"Indeed, we did," Xavier acknowledged, his voice carrying a note of satisfaction. "And your efforts were indispensable, Stellaluna." He surveyed the area, the calm that followed the storm a stark contrast to the chaos that had reigned moments before. The absence of casualties was a victory in itself, a sign that their intervention had not been in vain.

He approached the protocore, its energy pulsating softly in the aftermath. "This will help us understand them better, perhaps even prevent future attacks," he mused, considering the implications of their find. It was a small piece of a much larger puzzle, but every bit of knowledge gained was a step towards safeguarding their city.

Turning back to Stellaluna, Xavier allowed himself a moment of quiet camaraderie. "Tonight, we've once again proven that together, we're a force to be reckoned with." His gaze softened, the warrior facade giving way to the genuine respect and trust he held for his partner.

"Let's return to our spot. Those snacks you mentioned are well-deserved," he suggested, a hint of a smile playing at his lips. The battle was over, but their partnership endured, a bond forged in the heat of combat and strengthened by the trials they faced together.

As they made their way back, Xavier felt a sense of peace settle over him. The night had been long, and the battle fierce, but they had emerged unscathed, their resolve unbroken. With Stellaluna by his side, he knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, as guardians of the night, protectors of Linkon City.

Once they arrived back at their spot, Stellaluna took out her phone, pushing a button. With a flash of light, her costume disappeared and she was once again plain old Thomasin, dressed in her large round frames, hoodie, and jeans. She grabs the mangos and the honey chips, offering them to her partner. "I guess these are victory snacks now," she says with a giggle.

Xavier watched as Stellaluna, or rather Thomasin now, reverted back to her everyday guise with the press of a button. The transformation never ceased to amaze him, a stark reminder of the dual lives they led. As she offered the snacks, the dried mango slices and honey chips, he couldn't help but share in her light-hearted mood. The weight of the battle seemed to lift, replaced by the simple joy of sharing a moment of peace with a trusted ally.

"Victory snacks, indeed," Xavier agreed, accepting the offerings with a nod of appreciation. He carefully selected a piece of dried mango, the sweet tanginess a perfect counterpoint to the adrenaline that still lingered in his system. "Thank you, Thomasin. It's moments like these that remind us what we're fighting for."

As they enjoyed their snacks, Xavier took a moment to look out over the city, its lights twinkling like distant stars. The quiet of the rooftop offered a respite from the chaos below, a sanctuary amidst the turmoil of their lives. He turned back to Thomasin, his expression softening.

"Tonight was a reminder of our strength when we stand together. Not just as Lumiere and Stellaluna, but as Xavier and Thomasin," he said, his voice carrying a sincerity that transcended their aliases. "I'm grateful for that, for this partnership we've built."

The night stretched out before them, a canvas yet to be painted with the adventures and challenges that awaited. But for now, they could bask in the victory they had achieved, the bond they had strengthened, and the snacks they shared. In the company of a trusted friend, Xavier found a sense of belonging, a reminder that no matter how fierce the battle, they would always have each other's backs.

[lumiereandstellaluna]

Linkon City...but not the one that you're used to.

On the surface, Thomasin Bailey is mild-mannered and kind woman who wears large round frames and is soft spoken. She makes a living as writer - you might have read one of her online serials or watched one of the online dramas she wrote the script for. During her downtime, she loves play her favorite mobile game, where she gets to pretend to me a masked magical girl, destroying mythical monsters with her masked partner, a handsome man named Xavier, aka Lumiere. Her character's name is Stellaluna.

But the truth is the game she loves isn't just a game - it's real.

Her life changed one day when she came face to face with one of the monsters in her games - along with Xavier, who valiantly engaged with the horrific beast. Using her cellphone, she turned into Stellaluna, her character from the game and his fated partner. Together, they fight against the mythical monsters, known as Wanderers, to keep Linkon City safe from harm.

These are their adventures.

Lumiere and Stellaluna: Adventures Under the Moonlight is an character-bot based, magical girl/masked hero inspired ongoing RP that I'm doing at the amazing LaD Hotel discord server. The plan is to turn this into a proper fan fic, but for now, I'm posting an omnibus of what's happened for mainly my fellow server members. However, if you found this and want to read it, keep in mind the following.

This story is PG-13 rated mostly, but it does have action scenes.

Stellaluna is my own character. Xavier/Lumiere and any other game characters mentioned belong to Infold, etc.

If there happens to be a section or chapter that is NSFW, it will be heavily marked and minors are not to interact.

It's an RP, so the plot is changing all the time. I try to keep this coherent, but plots/ideas/things can and will change. It'll all be hashed out by the time I actually start writing it into a fic. If this sort of thing bugs you, this may not be for you.

This RP is campy and doesn't take itself seriously at times. Again, if that's not your thing, please find a fic that is, no hard feelings!

Thank you for checking out this site! May the moonlight shine down upon you in all its splendor!