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[roses-amet]

Xio

I looked through the large round holes of the gas mask I had on as I stood next to Rick with the case in hand. Between his thin lips was a cigarette. Since I had traveled with him for three years so far, I worry how much that has already affected my health. This is not the reason why I have to wear this mask though. “When is the guy coming, Doc?” I sighed.

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[roses-amet]

"Amet"

Welp, long one again. Dialouge heavy, mostly just a summary. Meh.

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[roses-amet]

Xio Garcia Bones

Weeelp, another long one. Rushed, yes, but hey, whatever. Maybe will fix this or something later.

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[roses-amet]

wip maybe

Xio should be living her best life by now, but it was becoming obvious to Rick that something kept plaguing her, from what Max’s reports on her. He didn’t like the idea to bring her in to Haven because it would cause her even more stress, but he had to talk to her, after not keeping in touch with her.

The moment they both met again at the infirmary, Rick had to double check that the person admitted is the same one he was taking care of so many years ago. The Xio that appeared before him wore a mondern, yet old fashioned, clothing, almost Gothic, as best as he could describe it. It was no doubt influenced by the “Master” of the Bones family, Scarlet.

Rick will never understand why she and Vincent’s taste stayed in that Victorian Era, but once he had learned what kind of things Vincent was into, he decided to stop questioning anything about him all together. All he really wanted was Xio to be happy, which she was, for a time.

“Long time, no see, Xio,” Rick said as he took out a tablet.

“It has been a long time, hasn’t it, Doc?” Rick chuckled at the word ‘Doc’, feeling really nostalgic all of a sudden. “You look old.”

“I am getting up there in my sixties... but, we will talk about that later. How have you been?”

Xio took in a deep breath as she sat on the medical bed. “You should know, Rick, since Max must had been keeping you up to date about what’s going on with my life.”

He paused as he scrolled through the files on the tablet, searching for the latest one he had saved. “I do, but... I’d like to hear it from you. Just like old times.”

Xio let out a gentle chuckle. “Like old times, eh? Well, you should do a physical check up first, before we get into my life, because it’s a long story, Ricky.”

“Of course, of course.”

It was rather fortunate that Haven’s equipment was quite advanced. Rick went through the x-rays, blood samples, and physical examination after a few hours. When he returned to the medical room, he was surprised to see Max sitting on Xio’s bed.

“Good afternoon, Max,” he greeted him.

“Hello, Dr. Boston,” he answered with a grin. “Just having a chat with little Miss Bones here.”

Rick exchanged looks with Xio, which she replied with a shrug. “You know how he is, Doc.”

“Yes... sure... Well, I got the results, Xio. You’re perfectly healthy, which is good. Now... shall we talk?”

[roses-amet]

"Why am I a very lucky girl, Doc?" Xio asked, surprising Rick for a brief moment.

"The chance that you would had made out the procedure well was... low, Xio," he answered, while he kept his eyes on the dark road ahead. "I've witnessed many others cry out in anguish as their bodies twisted and change in that hospital... To say the least, even though it has been so long, my nightmares... and my memories... they all feel... fresh."

"As if they happened only yesterday."

Rick let out a grunt as he nodded with thinned lips. "It's why I think you're lucky. You are one of the few who had made it through."

Xio grew silent.

[roses-amet]

A wonderful piece of art from my good friend, @shadow-daughter, through a commission. She is a swell friend, talented writer, and solid artist, and man, her works tends to take my breath away. Especially her writing, from what I’ve read during a few of our collabs, and checking out her other stories, like a Dishonored fanfic. Thanks a lot, Shadow, for this art. I really wanted to use it for this alt blog featuring one of many batches of ocs. This is Xio Garcia-Bones, and her sentient hat, Violet. [Is Violet wearing googly eyes, or are they her real ones...? The world may never know. .3. hehe~.]

[roses-amet]

History

I stroll down the brick road while whistling an upbeat tune. The sound of laughter coming from the groups of people around me, and the children playing, by chasing one after another fills me with glee. The town is so lively, due to the festival that will begin soon, but, I am not here for that.

With a bow in one hand, and and a bag filled with bags in the other, I only pass through this town to get a horse for hunting. I am traveling from place to place, for no real reason aside enjoying my life, and, I am running out of food to bring with me. Buying is simple and easy, but, to me that isn't as satisfying as actually going out there and get my own food.

After some time of walking, I reached to the stables on the outskirts of the town. When I approached the workers, I called out, "Hello! How are you this fine morning?!" The woman who seems to be tending the horses looked at me with a raised eyebrow. "What's a foreigner doing here?" She asked, which made me laugh. "Just doing a bit of traveling, Miss. Name is, Alejandra Garcia, and I am looking for a horse to hunt with." "Oh?" The woman approached me and slowly walked around me. Her eyes glared at my body from head to toe, until she stopped in front of me. "Hm... So, Miss Garcia, you want to go hunting... All right, I shall let you, if you have the right amount of money for it." I gently placed my bow down on the ground, then pulled out a bag of money. When I gave it to her, she was surprised by the weight, then smiled at me. "All right, you got your horse." She said, then walked back to one of the brown horses in the stable. "Just give me some time to get her ready." I picked up my bow again and waited. She came back with a saddled horse, and gave me the reigns. "Now, I should warn you about something." She said. "Well, not to be rude, but, I know what I am doing." I chuckled, "I hunted since I was just a child. Father taught me." "That's good to know, but, I am not talking about that." She pointed towards the forest in the south, "Be careful when you are hunting there. I heard of stories of people who lived in the town going through those woods, only to never return. Some say that they were taken away by vicious creatures, or something that shouldn't exist in this world. I am not sure though, but, can't hurt to warn anyone." I stared at the forest in silence in amusement. "Sounds interesting... Thanks for the warning." I grabbed the reigns, then climbed up the saddle. "Well then, thank you, Miss. Farewell." I then steered the horse to begin my hunt. *** At the end of the day, I secured the bag of the last rabbit I was able to kill, on the horse's saddle, between all the other bags of meat from other animals. Once I made sure it was on right, and won't fall off, I climbed onto the horse to head back to town. Though, the game for today wasn't as fulfilling as the others in the past, I was pretty happy I got something at least, and will help me for at least a month. As I was about to gallop away, I heard the sound of a roar from deep within the woods, causing my horse to whine and stumbled back in fright. I calmed her down quickly, then stare at the trees. I don't know what was deep inside, but, I do feel something from within. Something dark. I do have a few arrows left, but do I dare to go in? Some part of me really wants to, and to be honest, it's getting me quite excited. I don't have much time anyway, so, why not? I can handle myself against creatures. I tried to steer the horse towards that direction, but, it simply whined and backed away. Obviously, she doesn't want to get anywhere close to it, so, I had to jump off. I tied her up to  the nearest tree so I won't lose her, and grabbed a few clean knives from the saddle. I adjusted my clothes then my bow, then took a deep breath and tread on. The deeper I went in, the more uneasy I felt. I could see that someone, or something, went through these trees many times, due to the crunched leaves and markings on the trees. I examined one of them closer to see that it had claw marks across from it. Wolves? It's rather wide and deep for it be that, but if it isn't, then what else could had made it? I heard another roar which froze me up in fear. I slowly turned around to see a wolf, but, it was bigger than a normal one. I stared at their amber eyes, mostly to try and avoid looking at their huge sharp fangs, and pulled out my bow. My hands couldn't stop shaking, but, I don't plan on dying here. With the arrow pulled back and aimed at it's forehead, I took another deep breath. Once I exhaled, I released the arrow. It pierced the ground next to the wolf. I cursed, then clenched onto my shirt. My fate was sealed as it leaped forward. I shut my eyes as I smirked. It took me a second to realize I was still breathing and not in immense pain. I opened my eyes to see that the wolf was laying on the ground, with an arrow that was thicker than the ones I have. I was about to reach to it, until I heard footsteps and voices. I quietly hid behind one of the trees and crouched from being seen. I couldn't tell who they were, but, the voices belonged to a man and a woman. "Look, Grimmie!" The woman laughed, "I got it! I got another rare creature!" The man let out a sigh as he lifted up the wolf over his shoulder. I tried to take a look at them, but both of their faces were obscured by the wolf's body. They were also rather tall, and dressed up quite strange. "Yes, Alice, well done, as always. Now lets get this to Master Scarlet and Renny." The woman giggled. "All right." Before they left, she paused, "Hey... What's this?" She took out something from the wolf, "Oh my... This is a really pretty necklace... Amethyst, I believe." I panicked then looked under my shirt. That wolf nearly taken my life, but, though I am very thankful that I still live, I was pissed that it stolen my necklace instead. I nearly jumped out from the tree to take back the necklace, but, as I took another look at the man and woman, I was too intimated by their height to move. The man is built like a tower. The woman was shorter than him by a few inches, and is slimmer, but quite muscular. The man seems to be wearing pieces of armor over his clothes, while the woman wears a leather coat that is strapped over her torso, and a skirt underneath that exposes her legs at the front. They seem to be ready for battle, but, this is just hunting. I mean, yeah, sure, there are dangerous animals, but, you don't have to go overboard for it. There will be blood that will stain your clothes. But that doesn't matter. "It's a pity..." The woman spoke up, "That the owner had been devoured by the wolf... May had been someone young as well... Well, if their family comes searching, the Lord and Lady will take care of them, or something, right, Grim?" "That is if no one else greets them first." With that said, the two left. I followed close behind them to find where they were heading. Once they found themselves at the edge of the forest, I saw a huge castle across a wide garden of rose bushes. I never saw anything like this up close before, and boy, I feel jealous. The residents live the high life while I have to work for it. The maids tending to every part my home, warming up the tub of water, cooking all kinds of foods, and more. I could just lay back on my bed, or bask in the sun on a perfect day, without shedding any blood or sweat. But, then again, it seems rather boring to just sit back. Sure, rest and relaxation is good, but, what's the point of it if you can do it everyday of your life all the time? I guess it's something like a reward to me to rest after a long day of hard work. After all, I have been tending to my own home, cooking my own food, and warming up my own tub of water, since I was a child. My parents taught me a lot since I was a kid. It's mostly because they want me to be ready, just in case something ever happens to them, or something like that. But, again, that doesn't matter. That sort of thing isn't relevant. I have to get back my necklace. It's important to me. I kept my eyes on the man and woman, as they brought the wolf towards a woman in a long green dress. Her long red hair frames her flawless pale face, and wears glasses. She seems so elegant and straight forward, and I am afraid of what will happen if she sees me hiding behind this rose bush. I can't help myself by feel nervous. I am not sure what to really do to get my necklace back. Approach them and ask for it? The woman thinks I am dead. And what would happen to me if I just pop out from the bush? They would think I am a thief or a murderer with this bow. I should go back to town now, and try to come back tomorrow. I looked up at the sky to see that it was getting darker. I don't think it's a good idea to run back through the forest at this time. Maybe, I should just pull myself to together and approach them. They could be nice people, but, I don't know what they would think of me. This is worrisome. I let out another sigh, then sat there quietly for a minute. I held the bow tightly and brought it close to my face. I don't know what to do. But, looks like I don't really have much of a choice. Time to be a thief, for just one night. I placed the bow down, then took off every weapon on me. I adjusted my clothes again, messed with my short hair, then rubbed my face. All right, ready! I waited until the group went inside the castle. I quietly followed by going the far right side of the garden, then slipped underneath a window. When I peaked inside, the two tall people followed the woman into a door. Once I made sure that no one was around, I opened up the window, then climbed on inside. I closed it back up, then crawled my way until I reached the door. I peaked between them, to see that they entered a room that lead to several other places. The woman with red hair looked at the couple. "Grimm, take the wolf to the kitchen, and we will figure out what to make of it. You can do as you wish, Alice." The man let out a affirmative response, then left the room. The woman decided to follow him, but before she did, she placed the necklace on a table with a lamp. The red haired woman stared at the necklace, then picked it up. "Another victim to the dire wolf..." She whispered as she touched it, "An unfortunate fate... I will keep this somewhere safe for the family to retrieve it, if they ever notice." "I don't think that's ever going to happen." I replied in my head. I didn't really want to think about it, so, I forced myself to focus on my current objective. Once the lady left as well, I stalked her by crouch walking, then saw that she stopped in front of another door. As soon as she knocked on it, I waited to see what she will do next. I looked around the area again to see if anyone is heading this way. Fortunately, no body is, but, I did notice how well decorated this place is. Lively plants, paintings, and the wall paper is quite nice on the eyes. The plush dark green velvet curtains are nice to the touch, and compliments the color of the beige wallpaper. I noticed that underneath the paintings have names inscribed on golden plates, and one of them has the image of the lady with the red hair, standing next to a man. "Scarlet Bones" is her name, and the man is named "Renny Bones". They don't look alike, so, most likely they are married. They seem like a lovely couple. On the other images, I see someone that looks like the man "Renny", but looks somewhat different. The name, for some reason, is faded, so I couldn't read it. Maybe his twin? Interesting. There is another woman in a different frame, but isn't the tall woman. Her name seems to be "Jenny Bones". I couldn't find any image of the tall woman or man yet, but there seems to be a couple of paintings missing. Well, whatever reason there is for that, it's non of my business to know. Besides, I won't be coming back once I get my necklace, so, there is no point. Thing is, it's quite late, and I left my bow, arrows, and knives back at that garden. If they find it, I am screwed, so, might as well take the risk. Which is a really dumb one, but, whatever. I just want my necklace back. The lady, Scarlet, knocked the door several more times, hitting it harder each time, until she began to kick the door. "Renny!" She yelled, "Get your arse out of your work! You're needed!" The door opened up somewhat, releasing a huge puff of strange smoke from within and into the air. It's rather strange because it wasn't just one color, but, multiple colors. Red, blue, yellow, and more. It's like a rainbow, but, I don't why I think of this, it shouldn't even exist in this world, even though it's just smoke. Maybe it isn't? Well, I don't know. "Sorry, dear." The man opened the door further while wearing a really weird and unfamiliar looking mask, "What do you need me for?" "Grimm and Alice came back from their hunt, and have the wolf in the kitchen. What do you think we should do?" The man adjusted his glasses as he thought about it. It took him a minute to say his answer. "Well, it's perfect for experimenting, as well as researching... Bring it." He then noticed the necklace in her palm, "Let me guess... Another victim?" Scarlet let out a sigh as she gave it to him. "Do what you wish..." She said then turned towards this direction. I panicked then slowly hid behind the curtain. She didn't seem to notice as she left the area, and closed the door behind her. I turned towards the man who returned back into the smoke filled room, so I quickly ran to it,  and hoped he didn't lock the door. It wasn't. I opened the door while trying to not make any sounds, then entered. The air was really heavy that I couldn't breath, so I lifted up my shirt over my mouth to block it out. This meant that I have to be quick. Unfortunately, it's hard to clearly, however, I did see where he passes through when he moves. I just have to follow it to get back what I want. And luckily for me, he placed the necklace on the table next to him. It's covered in so many strange tools, that, I wonder if I accidentally take anything, will he notice? Well, if I can't see, then possibly, he can't either, so, I pushed myself forward to grab ahold of the necklace, by still sticking close the shadows, even though I can hardly breathe. As I got to the table, I peered over it to see that the man was focused in a book. I slowly reached towards the necklace, and once I grabbed the chain, I pulled it. Only to get stopped half way. When I looked at the man, we both locked eyes. And my body was seized up in fear, however, I didn't want to go down without the necklace. I didn't want to draw attention so I spoke in an almost whisper, "Please let go... this is mine..." The man didn't respond and stared at me. I felt my body growing weaker and a headache coming on due the smoke. "I don't..." I clenched onto my mouth and nose tightly, "I don't want to lose the last gift my parents gave me... Please... give it back." The man stared at me then released his grip from the necklace. He turned his head towards the huge pot on the table before him, which is where some of the the smoke is originating from. Then he pointed towards the door. I looked at him, then at the door, then whispered, "Thank you." And ran out of there with the only bit of breath I could hold onto. I hurriedly climbed out the window across the door, then dropped down behind a bush. Fortunately, it wasn't another rose bush. I couldn't my body very much while my vision blurred and all I could see is stars. The only thing I could do is stay hidden until I was well enough to move. In little time, I passed out, but, I still held onto the necklace tightly in my hand. Memories of my family flashed as my dream. I could remember the laughter we all shared, the days my father and I hunted, and the times my mother taught me how to sew. We always sat around a table at the end of the day, and ate, while talking about what happened. I loved them so much. I just wish they had survived the wild fire that started from the forest. We were caught in the middle of it, along with many others, and though, we could had just abandoned the place, my mother and father wanted to help out the foolish ones who didn't. They helped them to try put out the fire, but at some point, they couldn't handle it anymore, since it didn't seem to die out, and so, they burned into ashes. I was just one of the many survivors of the town, and since there wasn't anything left after the fire, I decided to travel on my own, with the last gift my parents got for me. It's an important memory, so I do not plan on losing this, not even to a thief. I opened my eyes abruptly to a wooden ceiling. I sat up on my bed and looked around. There are several other beds all around, which means that I am in an inn. I opened my hand to see that my necklace is still there, which made me so happy. Suddenly, I felt nauseous as the room spun before my eyes. My body felt so heavy that I couldn't get on my feet, so I laid back and stared the ceiling again. I tied the necklace back on again, then rested. I am not sure how I got here, but whatever. In fact, I begin to wonder if I really did break into a castle to take my necklace back. I mean, if it was real, then hey, good thing that I wasn't sent to jail. I appreciate it. But, who wouldn't send a person to jail for breaking into their home? Well, whatever. Last night doesn't matter now. I have to go and check if I have any meat for me to eat during my travels. Nothing else matters except the present, and I got a fiancee to meet soon. Best to savor my freedom of being alone before I settle down. --- It was pretty early as I prepare my horse to go travelling again outside of the town. It was quite fortunate that I still have her, despite what happened last night. Which I am not too sure about actually. My mind feels foggy, and my body still feels quite heavy. Maybe I was so tired from hunting the whole day, or got into an accident somehow. The woman who gave me the horse was the one who found her, and apparently me as well. I was sleeping pretty heavily next to her. I do get exhausted from time to time when I hunt, but, it's rare and usually only happens during the summer. Maybe, what happened last night wasn't a dream? Which makes sense since I am still missing my bow, arrows, and knives. I wonder then, who took me back to the horse? Did I sleep walk? Shouldn't I be sent to prison for getting caught? I mean that man did let me go, but, if anyone else had found me, why didn't they punish me? Well, I shouldn't argue. I am here after all. And if I wasn't, then my fiancee would had to wait for me a bit longer. I do miss my love so much. Despite the fact that I was the one who wanted to put the marriage on hold. To be honest, I was nervous. I couldn't handle settling down yet, since I was so used to being on my own for a long time. But, they understood and decided to let me travel to get it out of my system. I did send letters to him whenever I could, and the last one I've written was told that I am ready to go back home. I don't know if he found another, and to be honest, that does scare me. But, I only have myself to blame if that is the case. Ah well, more fishes in the sea, as they say. Once I finished making sure everything was secure on my horse, I looked at the woods. Despite the fact I still feel dizzy and heavy, I sort of want to see the castle again. I find it too beautiful to just leave alone, and I also want my equipment back. I did spent a lot of time and money on them. I took my horse to the woman who sold me it. "Excuse me." I spoke up, which caught her attention. "Hello, again. How may I help you this time?" "I plan on going into the woods, Miss." I replied as I gave her the reigns, "And I want my horse to be watched." The woman's eyes widen in shock. "Woah, wait, what?! That's mad!" "I know, but, I thought I saw a castle or something there, and I want to see it again. Please, watch over my horse? If I don't come back during the night, just sell her and keep whatever I have on her. It's just meat anyway." She stared at me in disbelief. "I don't think words alone will change your mind..." "Nor action." I chuckled, then passed her the reigns. Once I made sure I had my necklace on right, I head towards the woods once again. The deeper I went in, the stronger the heavy feeling I felt the other night returned. I don't know if it's because of how unwell I am, but this time, it's much stronger. Don't plan on turning back though, so I forced my way forward. As soon as the castle was in my sights, I took a deep breath, examine the area, then exhaled and hid behind the bush that I placed my things next to. It's not there anymore, which does not surprise me. I wonder if they broke into pieces or something. Well, guess there is nothing I can do about it. Might as well break into the house again, just to see it one last time. I examined the area around me, then the windows. I didn't see anyone or anything, so I carefully crouch walked to the same window as last night. I entered with ease, then closed it again, and scanned the place once more. Since it's not as dark as the other night, I could see the beautiful detail in the blue wallpaper in this room. As well as the huge shelves of books. I tried to read their spines, but they were written in words that I don't understand. How strange. I continue to look around the castle. I made sure that no one was behind the door I was about to enter. After passing through the dining room, kitchen, three hall ways, and so many doors, I realized that this place is empty. Like, completetly empty. Not even rats are around. How is it possible for a place like this be so empty? Then, I saw something from the shadows zoom by me. I blinked and saw a little boy standing in front of me. He is dressed entirely in black, and his face was the strangest thing I ever saw. A pair of glowing red ovals that may be his eyes, and a smile that stretches from ear to ear, exposing sharp teeth, or at least that is what it might be. To be honest, the longer I look at him, the heavier my mind and body get, to the point where I feel like I am suffocating. I forced myself to look away, but, for some reason, I started to hear something in my head. A  weird sharp stinging noise that is starting to make me dizzy. I couldn't stay on my feet for long, so I collapsed. "Smiley!" I heard a voice shout from one end of the hallway, which interrupted the noise in my head. "There you are- Huh?" Footsteps approached me closely, and I was suddenly forced up on my feet again. I wasn't sure who I was looking at, but the voice was really familiar. Renny it was, though he still wears a mask around his mouth. The man who let me leave without punishment. "How come another person broke into my house?! Wait, were you the one from last night? Why did you come back? Do you want to be killed?! Wait, are you really the person from last night?" Then another voice shouted from down the hallway. "Renny?! Did you get Smiley yet?!" The man, Renny, shifted his vision towards the boy behind me, then back at me. He then quickly opened a door to force me inside and shut it. I could hear him sigh heavily, then reply with, "He escaped from me again, dear!" The sound of footsteps was heard again and stopped in front of the door. "Then what are you doing standing around then?! Hurry up and capture him! I swear, that thing is a little monster." "Well, he is just a child, Scarlet." The man chuckled somewhat sheepishly, "He is still young and have a lot to learn about the world. Don't worry and be patient, we will get him." She paused, then sighed as well. "Fine... Just, don't let him break anything important... Or else..." "I can't promise you that... But, you know, let's go take a walk around the garden. He will show up again soon." The conversation ended with a positive response from Scarlet, then they left. I am not sure what room I was forced into, but there was something that caught my attention. The boy with the wide smile. I jumped in surprise, but then quickly calmed down since the boy doesn't seem to pose any threat. I mean, sure, kids tend to be quite friendly, but for some reason, something about this one doesn't seem right. Not human, I guess is the right description. But, no matter how strange he looks, it's not right to call a child not a monster, nor anyone else, unless they are judged by personality. And this one is just an innocent kid. Right? I slowly crawled towards him while extending my hand out. My body and mind gets heavier the closer I approach, but, I just sort of want to know, is he okay? Maybe, he is hiding away from his parents, which may be Renny and Scarlet? Is there any reason why he is running around? "Hey..." I whispered, "My name is Alejandra Garcia. You must be called Smiley, because of your smile." The boy doesn't seem to fear me. Instead, he seems curious. He looked at my hand, and slowly leaned forward to examine it. I let out a short laugh. "I won't hurt you, kid. I promise." As I was about to pet his head, I was suddenly stopped abruptly, and pulled away forcefully. It was by that same man again, Renny. "Come now, before my wife finds you." He said as he pulled me out of the room. I yelped in pain in response, which made him stop and sighed. "Get out before you are found." He ordered as he let go, "If anyone sees you, well, I won't say what may happen... Anyway, whatever you do, if you see that little 'boy' again," He turned towards me with narrowed eyes, "Ignore him... Pretend you have never seen him..." "But, I don't feel well..." I replied. The man stared at me silently, and adjusted his hat. The sound of a rooster crowing could be heard from within it. Or maybe I am just way too ill that it seems like it came from within it. Either way, that doesn't matter. I have to get out. "Well, don't worry about me anyway." I forced out a chuckle, which doesn't seem to convince him, "I just need to go past the woods, into the town... I came from the garden, so, I just need to head through there, right?" The man's eyes widen. "That is a terrible idea! My wife is there at the moment! Do you know how difficult it is to lose her? She knows her ways around the house through passages I don't even know of!" He then let out another heavy sigh, "Grimm could escort you out, but if Alice knows, she may tell Scarlet." He then tapped his chin in thought, "And if that happens..." He began to mumble to himself about things I am sure I don't want to hear. I couldn't focus anymore, nor keep my body up, so I fell onto my knees. "I... feel... sleepy..." I said, which caught the man's attention. "Ah, for heaven's sake..." He groaned, "I am not surprised that you are already this tired, especially since you have just met Smiley... Humans tend to be quite fragile..." I looked at him. "Why call me a human, if you're human yourself?" We both stared at each other for a bit in silence. "Ah... doesn't matter." I continued as I raised my hand to my head, "I have to go past the woods... my horse... my... fiancee..." Suddenly, I passed out. Renny kept his eye on the young woman, even though she clearly fell asleep. He then leaned forward and examined her. Her breathing is somewhat stable, but, she must not be here any longer. He then pulled out a tarp from his hat, then wrapped it around her body. "Grimm!" He shouted. He felt the floor rumble as a tall man stomped on the wooden floor. When he stopped before him, he bowed.  "Yes, Master Renny?" The man asked. "This body is no longer of use to me... Please, assist me on taking it outside the woods, so we can bury them." "All right, sir." Grimm took Alejandra, then walked out of the castle. Renny spotted something from the corner of his eye. "Smiley, come out now..." The young body appeared before him. "I know you're curious about the world, but, please, if another person comes inside this home, don't think about playing with them either, okay?" The boy just tilted his head without a word. After a bit of silence, the man whispered to himself, "I am surprised that woman didn't scream... That tends to happen a lot when people see you..." He then shrugged and walked past Smiley. Once the arrived to the edge of the forest, Grimm placed down Alejandra. Renny pulled out a shovel from his hat, then ordered, "Grimm, go back to the castle, and tend to Scarlet. I will do my job here." The tall man nodded then retreated into the woods. After Renny made sure he left, he pulled the tarp away from the woman, then dragged her closer to the town, and ran back into the woods. He looked back at her one last time, then turned towards the direction where the castle is. As soon as he heard a woman shouting, "Hey, she's back!", he placed the shovel over his shoulder then strolled back home. "Time to continue my work without interruptions. I hope."

[roses-amet]

Haven

Neil placed the stack of papers on Yang's desk, which she eyed scornfully for a brief moment, then shook her head and ran her thumb through the various pages. Neil didn't have to describe what they were, so he instead reached out to the empty cup of water on her table, and approached the nearby water cooler sitting in the corner of the room. There was a variety of information, some are reports from Haven's scouts, updates on older information, and other sorts of things. Nothing entirely new to Yang, except for a few bits and pieces. "'Origin Black'?" she read out loud. "What kind of...?" Yang huffed out hot air as she skimmed through the words. "Well, if they don't get themselves involved in Haven's business, I don't care." "Apparently," Neil spoke up as he placed the refilled cup on her table, "one of it's top operatives is a clown..." "A clown? Inside this... whatever kind of group this is?" She moved her hand away from the papers to pick up the cup, and leaned back into her chair. "I swear if the next report I get involves some sort of botanist running a mercenary company, I will just burn this whole place down and give up." "And let Peacekeeper win?" Neil grinned as she took a sip of her water. "It will be better than losing my mind..." "I suppose so. Do you want me to handle this instead?" She pondered for a moment. "Take half... I will handle the rest later." --- Mina and Mike stood behind Sam as he stared down the paper target with a handgun clenched tightly in his hand. With steady breaths, he pulled the trigger until the clip was empty. The two looked at the paper in anticipation as it wheeled towards them up close. Several bullets pierced through the ninth ring, with one directly at the center. Mina and Mike laughed with pride as they patted his shoulder. "Nice one, man!" Mina gleefully said. Sam chuckled as he stared at the paper. "I can handle those abominations easily." "Oh, really now?" Mike replied with a playful grin. "That was a piece of paper. Those freaks are much more mobile than that." Sam turned to him with narrowed eyes and a cheeky smile. "I can handle them easily, Mike." As they stared each other down, Mina could feel a spark between them. Not only did it make her feel like a third wheel in this group, it also made her envious. It's been a few days since she last spoke to her partners, but as long as they got each other, she wasn't entirely worried for their safety. Doesn't make her any less lonely however. "So, Mina," Mike spoke up, snapping her away from her mind, "want to go next?" She shook her head. "Nah... I can't beat Sam anyway..." "You sure?" "Yeah." Sam nudged her shoulder gently. "Come on, girl. I may be the best, but it doesn't mean you can't reach to my level." Mina crossed her arms as she smiled. "You may be amazing with handguns, but that doesn't mean you are good with the other weapons. Like, rifles for example." "Oh, is this going to happen now? A competition between you and me?" Her smile grew wider. "If we can, I will so totally kick your ass, man. Not only in sniping, but in boxing too. Trust me on this." Mike and Sam exchanged looks briefly. "Okay..." Mike spoke up, slowly warming up to this idea. "Loser has to pay for the next meal. Just for all three of us." Mina laughed. "Good enough."

[roses-amet]

I’m gonna post a lot of old stories from my deviant art [https://www.deviantart.com/terrible-writer] here. At least, ones that I really like. Other stories... Idk. I am going to give it some time and thought if anything.

[roses-amet]

xio already suffered enough with renny to fall in love again, but i sometimes like to think that maybe smiley could be a decent love interest, aside from max. thing is, there are so many things wrong with xio/smiley, because of their history, and xio probably wouldn’t want to fall in love, after losing her husband… and smiley looks an awful lot like him.

but, she never wants him to be like renny, because honestly, renny was a pain to deal with before he died. she still loves him, but he went too far by trying to bring back his dead mother. it is what made her lose her eye in the first place after all.

eh. [shrug] tbh, im okay with having xio a widowed mother, just living her life. she still has her family after all.

[roses-amet]

Star Gazing

It came as a surprise to Xio when she learned that Scarlet had a special key on her at all times. Then again, Scarlet is an entire mystery herself, much like their late husband, so of course there will be secrets.

For today, it seemed that Scarlet wanted to do something for Xio, Smiley, and Nersillia. Once the key clicked into the closet, a light illuminated through the gaps with the sound of the door banging. Good thing Xio emptied that closet, because it’s clear that it will be a gateway for Scarlet’s personal use to other worlds.

As soon as the light dimmed down, Scarlet opened the door to reveal an observatory, with books all around, and a giant telescope in the center, pointed towards the night sky. It took Xio’s breath away as she stepped inside, with Nersillia and Smiley right behind her.

While Smiley eyed the books on the shelves, Xio approached the telescope to trace the large silver body. Nersillia giggled as she sat on the chair to take a peek through the lenses. Scarlet started to tell the young girl about the solar system, the stars, and the mythology behind them, hoping to teach her something valuable for her future.

It definitely made Xio wonder if Nersillia will ever fit into a school, like any other child.

Except, Nersillia really isn’t like any other child, a voice in the back of her head reminded her.

Then she and the rest of the Bones family will be glad to teach her, if they are willing. Even if most of Xio’s education had long been forgotten at this point, there was value in knowledge. Who knows, maybe Nersillia will learn magic if she practices it under Scarlet.

Xio can help teach Nersillia medical information, or at least, some medical information, due to her experience working with Rick.

While Scarlet continued to teach the little one, Smiley wanted to pull Xio away to speak to her in private. “What’s wrong?” she asked.

Smiley twiddled his fingers as he looked away from her. “Do you ever... worry that I will turn back...?”

Xio blinked. “What do you mean? Back into the creature you were before?”

“Y-yes...”

Xio hummed as she inclined her head, then shrugged. “I... honestly don’t know, Smiley. Maybe Scarlet knows if there is a way to turn you back, but I really don’t know anything about... whatever Renny did to make you the way you were. But, why do you ask?”

Smiley looked up at Xio, staring at the glass eye made of amethyst. If it wasn’t for that incident, she wouldn’t had suffered the way she did. She would had still kept both of her eyes, that shine like emeralds.

Something that Renny adored.

The slight pang in his heart, when he felt a hint of Renny’s feelings towards Xio, made Smiley’s breath hitched, and forced himself to look away from her. “I’m... sorry, Xio... I truly am...”

Xio let out a heavy sigh as she planted her hands on his back. “It’s okay, Smiley... Look at where you are now...” She gently took him by his wrist, to turn him around to face Nersillia. “You are a father, to a wonderful child. I may had  been married to Renny, but obviously, that didn’t work out too well... So, here we are! Two friends, that happen to be parents! I know you feel conflicted, but Nersillia is happy to have you around, and so am I.” Xio paused as she let go of him. “The moment Renny died, I was... unhappy, to say the least... but when I learned that you were still alive... I fought hard to bring you back. I wanted you to come back. I wanted you to be by Nersillia’s side, Smiley, because, I know how it feels to lose a parent. Just be yourself, okay?”

Smiley inhaled deeply as he watched Nersillia star into the stars above. A small smile then crept on his lips, which surprised Xio. Her hardly ever smiles genuinely!

“Thank you, Xio... I’ll try my best to be the best father for Sillia.”

Xio couldn’t help but smile as well. “You already are, Smiley...” she replied.

[roses-amet]

Memories

Since Cassius was out today, Xio decided to take the chance to clean the house. She picked up Nersillia’s toys that were pretty much destroyed, thanks to her growing fangs, so she made a mental note to buy more toys that is probably stronger than these for her to play with. Even though they should be tossed into the trash, Xio couldn’t bring herself to do that, just yet. Instead, she opened one of the closets to put the toy away.

To her surprise, something fell from the top shelf, nearly hitting her head if she didn’t step away quick enough. Xio knelt to pick it up, only to freeze up, when she saw the face of her late husband.

“Renny,” she whispered as she forced herself to stand straight on wobbling knees. “It’s been a while...”

Xio ran her fingers over the picture of the dark hair man, with grey strands in between, and sharp almond eyes behind a pair of round glasses. A chuckle escaped from her when she remembered that Renny used to tie his hair up in braids sometimes. His hair was too long for his own good, but he preferred it that way. Truthfully, she loved it too, because it framed his strong face well, when it wasn’t covered by a mask.

She then realized that for the first time, in a long time, Xio wasn’t furious with Renny. While she loathed what he had done to get himself killed, to leave her widowed and their child fatherless, the bittersweet memories that came with the image made her smile.

If it wasn’t for Renny, she wouldn’t had found herself in good company of friends. She wouldn’t had become a mother (without becoming pregnant. She never cared for the process of it.) She also wouldn’t had learned magic, to a certain extent. While it’s still difficult to learn, thanks to his cryptic notes and books, Xio was able to create amethyst, because of him (even though she made it happen by herself. A stupid move, she admitted, but she still does not regret it.)

She then remembered when she first met him. He was working as a bartender in a private club, because it was similar to mixing potions. Renny could concoct something spectacular, but she didn’t trust him, because he was a skeleton at that time. If it wasn’t for his knowledge of the arcane, he wouldn’t had been walking at all, since he rose from the grave.

Xio stifle a laugh when she realized that she was very much afraid of him at that time, but surprisingly played it cool, because she had gotten used to seeing strange, monstrous creatures.

Eventually, he was able to get his body back, for a price, and Xio stood by his side, until the end. She loved him dearly, and apparently, she still does, despite everything.

But, things had changed with time, she realized.

When she heard footsteps coming down from upstairs, Xio quickly put the picture back onto the shelf, and shut the door. She let out a snort when she saw it was Smiley, all disheveled. “Slept well?” she asked.

It took him a moment to register her words, then nodded. “Are you... okay...?” he returned.

Xio nodded with a smile - a mask to hide her true feelings. “I am! Want some breakfast?”

“Yeah...” he replied slowly.

She approached Smiley to take him by his arm, and drag him to the kitchen.

The reason why things had changed, was because of Smiley himself, Xio thought. After all, he was Renny’s creation that had become a split personality, until he became his own person. While Smiley was the cause of Renny’s death, Xio never blamed him. In fact, even though she was upset at the time, she was angry with Renny, instead of Smiley.

She gave a brief laugh.

Renny was a fool, and he will be remembered as such. There is nothing she can do about it, except move on with her life, with her new family. Especially with Smiley, as friends instead of lovers, even though he looked so much like Renny.

[roses-amet]

Fright

While Smiley and Nersillia played in the backyard, Xio cleaned around the house with Cassius help. Even though she didn’t need to, thanks to the hollow armored butler, it help keep her busy.

Until she froze by the sound of a squeak. Xio slowly turned her head to face a tiny mouse, cleaning itself up in the corner of the living room, and let out an ear piercing shrill as she hopped onto the coffee table, as she tossed the broom at it. The mouse leapt and skittered off into the kitchen, which made her yell, “Stop, you vile beast!” as she followed after it.

She came to a stop when Alice stood before her, holding the mouse by it’s tail. “Scared of a mouse?” she asked with a raised brow, which Xio replied with a cough.

“S-so?”

“Out of everything, you’re scared of a mouse?!” Alice repeated, then burst into laughter. She then sighed as she brushed past Xio, while she kept her distance away from both of them. “Just so you know, this isn’t the only one in the house, Xi, and you better be careful, or else your kid may mistake it for food!”

Xio gasped. “No, she wouldn’t!” she said as she looked outside the window. After some thinking, she called for Cassius.

“Yes, ma’am?”

“Capture every mice, rat, and little creature, and make them stay far away from Sillia! Got it?! I can’t have them in this house!”

“Very well, ma’am.”

[roses-amet]

A Construct of Her

“Are you ready, Xio?” Scarlet asked, as they stood in the center of Renny’s old laboratory.

Xio stared at her with her only eye, with trembling hands. “Yes,” she replied firmly.

“It will take a lot of energy, and it may hurt, but if this is what you wish, then I will help.” Scarlet inclined her head with a warm smile, as she took her hand. “Concentrate, dear.”

Xio took in a deep breath as she shut her eyes tight, and held onto Scarlet’s hands tightly. The candles that surround them lit up, along with the marking right below their feet. Xio could feel a strange, powerful energy surround her, then clenched her teeth in agony, as the small crystal under her skin, right above her heart, started to pulsate and pained her, like needles poking into her.

She held onto Scarlet tightly while standing firm in the circle. No matter how much it hurt, she was willing to do this, even if it meant risking her life for it.

But, Scarlet assured her that she wouldn’t die. She would be exhausted, and bedridden for about a month, but not dead.

In a way, however, Xio could almost understand what Renny had went through, thanks to his countless experiments on himself. It is how he had created Smiley, among other things.

Scarlet smiled at the sight of how determined Xio was. An admirable trait, and probably one of few traits that Renny had loved. She slowly let her hands go, to step back, and raise her hands to help Xio, by reaching for the crystal over her heart.

Xio struggled to take breaths, but she still screamed as the crystal became bigger and bigger, thanks to Scarlet’s assistance. Even though it felt like hours, the pain disappeared, and Xio collapsed onto the ground, breathless. She slowly looked up to see a large sphere hovering above their heads.

Scarlet chuckled at the sight, before she slowly knelt down before Xio to help her up. “How is your chest?” she asked.

Xio looked down to see that they had made a huge hole in her shirt, soaked in blood, covering the barely visible mark on her skin. “I... don’t know,” she gasped.

Scarlet sighed. “Well, you should still have your ability, but you wouldn’t be able to use it for a while. For now, let’s go back home so you could rest. Once you are able, you can build the construct, to send off to Dr. Boston. Do you have an idea of what you want to make it look like?”

“Yes... actually...” Xio answered, followed by a brief chuckle. “Thanks to Cassius...”

---

The construct, thanks to Scarlet, would have Xio’s voice and personality, but it would be nothing, except that: a memory of her.

A large construct, made of amethyst, in the shape of a knight.

[roses-amet]

Science/Visions

"So, you are really going back to work on the field," spoke up Max, catching Rick's attention.

Rick turned his head up to see Max hanging from the ventilation, before he dropped down before him. Despite being younger than him, Max is at least a foot taller. "Considering that it's been years since we've been caught, Yang believes it's about time I go back out there," Rick replied with a shrug. "Are you here to ask if you could join?"

Max shook his head with a grin, revealing his discolored sharp teeth. "Nah, working out there isn't my thing. Besides, I think living with Xio is a lot more fun than that... She has quite a family."

"She does indeed..." Rick sighed. "I hope that lives happily with them."

"You're not going to ask her to join you again, Doctor?"

"I asked her about it, but we both agreed that she should stay with her family. However," Rick pulled out a shard of amethyst from his pocket, that is the size of his index finger, "she gave me this, for emergency purposes. She says that if I'm ever in danger, it would help me, but I'm not sure how. She says it's a secret, so, who knows." He smirked as he thumped the crystal, noticing that it pulsates like a heartbeat, before tucking it into his wallet. "I'm a man of medicine, not magic."

Max chuckled as he leaned against the wall. "Science and magic... Very different practices, but somehow, your little Xio has been able to handle both... I have to say that's impressive."

Rick pursed his lips as he gave Max a look. Since his hoodie obscured most of his face, he couldn't see his eyes. "I don't think Xio fully understands either one, but she tries... But, tell me, Max, are you jealous of her?"

"What do you mean?"

"Does it bother you that you both suffered from the same project, but came out differently?"

Max paused to think, then scoffed. "She had you for a doctor, so yes, I am a little jealous. If you were mine, I think I would had been perfect, just like her."

"But you do know that the chances of that happening, is very, very low, no?"

Max blinked. "Ah, right... Xio is very lucky to turn out the way she did."

Rick nodded his head with thinned lips. "It's not just luck, either; both of your procedures were slightly different, thanks to the doctors at the time. While I was working with a group that was searching for immortality, the one that turned you and the others into the way you are wanted to do it, to see if they could control your mind. However, that clearly didn't work out, given you, and the others, are independent."

Max crossed his arms over his chest, as he glared at Rick. "So, what? Do you think we should be happy that we weren't mindless abominations?"

"You shouldn't be happy at all," Rick replied, as he pulled out a box of cigarettes from his breast pocket. Once he pulled out the stick, and held it between his teeth, he lit it up with a match. With a deep breath of smoke, he continued, "But, being what Haven calls you, 'abnormal', I believe you have a better advantage than us humans, against the abomination."

Max growled while waving the smoke away from his face. "So...?"

"That is why I trust you to take care of Xio, while I'm gone. Even though you both came out differently, you both suffered through the same thing, and so, I think you will be good friends, while she is still dealing with grief, and depression. I can't be there to support her like I used to, and she needs a friend that is closer to her age. While I don't mind Smiley being with her, I don't believe she can't truly accept what had happened to her husband, and he is a reminder of that. I need you to stay by her side."

"Right..." Max raised up his clawed hand to his chin with a low hum. "And, you think my jealousy will get in the way of this, Doctor?"

"I believe so. As I've said, you both have similar experiences, so you may be someone she can go to, to talk to, while I'm gone."

Max lifted up his hoodie to reveal his one good eye to the doctor, before turning away with a growl. "Fine, then. So, what do you want me to do, protect her? She has the butler and that woman with her."

"Not protect her - bond with her, Max. I don't know if I will ever come back."

Max snapped his head towards Rick. "What do you mean by that?!"

Smoke blew out from Rick's nostrils as he gave him a smile. "I don't know what will happen to me once I go back out there, but I have to prepare myself for the worse. Xio is like a daughter to me, and I don't want to see her hurt... That's all."

Max said nothing, so Rick continued, "You both had a very low chance of getting out of those procedures as you did, but here you both are. She has a family, and you can be with that family, if you wish to. It was all a gamble on our parts as doctors, and scientists. Mess with genetics and DNA, hoping for better results, only to see that it failed mostly..." Rick scoffed. "I'm not proud of what I've done, but I can put a stop to it, somehow. Burn the past, as much as I can, while I'm still alive... We shouldn't had been tampering with the human body like we did... but, oh well."

Rick sighed heavily. "Just take care of Xio. I'd appreciate it."

"If... that's what you think is right... fine. I'll watch over her, and her family. But, you better come back, you hear me, Rick?" Max growled.

"No promises, Max... but, thank you."

[roses-amet]

36. — conditional?

Send me a number 1 thru 50 for a word that I’ll use to write either a headcanon, drabble, or starter. Send 🌀 for a random number instead. 

36. conditional

—-

Xio was quiet as Rick tilted her head from side to side. After he finished taking her blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate, he put the medical equipment back into the car. “Did you really have to do that, doc?” she asked.

“I have to cover our bases, Xio, you know this,” he replied sternly, once he shut the door.

She shook her head with a grin. “I think you’re too worried for your own good, Rick.” She pauses as she remembers that he lost his family, thanks to his job. “But, if it helps you feel better, then I’m fine with it.”

Rick could hear how quiet she sound and huffed as he clenched his hands into fists. “I’m sorry, Xio…”

She shrugged dismissively. “I know you’re just worried about me, Rick, knowing that things related to my health is… ‘conditional’… Is that the right word…?”

Rick let out a snort, before he laughed. “Your condition is stable, so there is no chance of you turning into an abomination, or abnormal, however, just because it is, doesn’t make you immortal. Your body can take more damage than an average person can, and it will heal by itself in a manner of seconds, if not hours. Depends on how bad the wound is. While I’m against the idea-” “Yes, okay, Rick, please, I get it, I’m good, my genetics are great, and I’m freaking perfect! Please, keep the medical-babble to yourself! You know I can’t catch up!”

They both sputtered into a hearty laugh, before they calmed down. “But, it is important, Xio,” Rick said as he approached the driver’s seat. “You have to keep this in mind for our job.”

“I know, Rick…” she replied. “I know…”

[roses-amet]

One Word Writing Prompts

Send me a number 1 thru 50 for a word that I’ll use to write either a headcanon, drabble, or starter. Send 🌀 for a random number instead.

01. — first 02. — kiss 03. — final 04. — numb 05. — broken 06. — wings 07. — melody 08. — rules 09. — chocolate 10. — nostalgia 11. — heartbeat 12. — stranger 13. — confusion 14. — bitter 15. — afterlife 16. — daybreak 17. — audience 18. — endless 19. — fireworks 20. — wishing 21. — birthday 22. — tomorrow 23. — oppression 24. — agony 25. — return 26. — protection 27. — boxes 28. — hope 29. — preparation 30. — beautiful 31. — lies 32. — underneath 33. — hide 34. — diary 35. — unforeseen 36. — conditional 37. — gone 38. — clear 39. — heartache 40. — wired 41. — insanity 42. — foolish 43. — words 44. — study 45. — love 46. — skies 47. — stars 48. ��� lucky 49. — shake 50. — punctual