#🔮.the peddler's peculiar potion sale

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

my darling patchy 💕 happy halloween! hope you’ve been staying warm in your shop. i’ve had the strangest affliction — a man name bakugou plagues my waking moments until he torments my dream! please, do you have a potion for this?

(mwah mwah i bring sweet treats and no tricks)

Afflictions can be quite the troublesome quarrel, that I know of. And it certainly is not a battle so easily won, dear Traveler. They are relentless and they do seem to come after us at our most vulnerable of states; during those times when we do not expect them to come our minds, to cause our feet to trip, and our minds to spiral out of control.

Though most are able to break through of this haunting trance after a little while. But I can sense, given the tiredness of your eyes, that you are not so lucky. That perhaps even in your dreams these thoughts make themselves know. So, to help aide you to rid yourself of this affliction, I give to you Drops of Perspicuity.

Allow but a few drops of this potion into your eyes before you sleep and perhaps then you will be rid of these begrudging thoughts. To help guide you to the linger answer that is hidden behind them all, and finally allow your mind the clarity it so desperately seeks.

Granted, of course, you are willing to face whatever answer it may provide for you.

You hated it.

Hated that every waking moment was filled with thoughts that always ended up pointing back to him. The rising star within the King’s guard. How his brash and boastful calls and jeers would ring withing your head far after he had passed you by within the gaggle of others giving him nothing but praise.

You swear you had never seen a man with such a large head, and even larger ego, than that of Bakugou Katsuki. You could not deny that the man had many a natural talent, those that all lend well to that of being perhaps one of the greatest knights that, not only this kingdom would ever see, but perhaps even known around the world. You had seem him spar, seen him with a blade and a bow, seen him train with the others within his regime. You saw just how much work and effort he had placed into his knighthood – all the evidence was there, for all to see, just how important it all was for him.

But he was merely a man, and like anyone else, he had flaws. Bakugou knew just how much better he was compared to the rest who were within his squad, fellow men who started from the bottom just as he did, who had trained the same time as him, and every day, no matter how hard they tried, they always paled in comparison. And Bakugou was not a humble man.

You first thought the loftiness within his personality when he boasted about himself was rather charming; how rough around the edges he seemed, but it all toward a good cause. But as the time wore on, you found his vanity to be more of an annoyance than something humorous.

There was little you could do, much to your dismay. For he, and the fair few that kept up with his pace, were in charge of protecting you and ensuring your safety. As a noble, they so proudly served you, but it left you little chance to reprieve yourself of his arrogance. Day in, and out, his smug smirk and taunting comments followed you wherever you went. It was nothing short of maddening.

Even after you had gone to your father, to plead with him as he sat upon his throne, for him to intervene and save you from further torment, truly there was nothing you could do to rid yourself of pieces of him. After your father gave him, and gave to you a new set of knights to help protect you as you traveled and lived your life, Bakugou was still there.

When you walked down the long and winding corridors of your castle, you could heel his strong aura surround you; sending a fierce shiver up your spine. When you wrote letter to your family and friends, you could hear his haughty tone within your hear telling you that you spelt something wrong. Whenever you fumbled with your sewing, or within a dance with yourself as you stumbled over your own feet, you could hear his smug laugh ring in your ears. It seemed, for a while, that your only true pardon of his being was when you had closed your eyes. In your slumber you could focus your mind on everything else that brough you joy and filled your curiosity.

But he took that too.

Now, whenever your eyes closed, images of him would replace the darkness that surround you. Memories of him with full armour as he rode one of the places horses, how he nudged into the side of yours in a taunting manner before riding off. Other times you could see him as he bowed before your family in respect, how that small smirk would grace his lips when he was before you. And there were times your dreams reminded of when you stumbled upon him as he spared with a fellow friend and knight, very little clothing between them, as the fought within the rain and mud; how his threw his head back with a boisterous laugh when he won.’

It was those dreams that always tried to venture into lands far too lascivious than you were comfortable with. You did not, could not, want to view him as a creature your budding lust was after.

It was in your desperation that you sought out other means than that of strong tea and honey before you slept. It was your torment that led you to venture off into the dense forest, that stood proudly behind vast castle, to make it to the small village that was hidden just on the other side.

You heard tales of a peddler, one that made themselves known in many a village, town, and even royal court. You heard of how they made potions, tinctures of vast array of effects, that could aide anyone with any kind of ailment. There were rumours of love potions to grant a person the affections of who they desire most. Potions of valour, to help who drank it the ability to face their fears. Even your friend had hold of you an oil they were given that helped make their beauty shine in a manner like the stars in the sky.

If the rumours were true, then you needed her help. And if your friend was right, then perhaps you may have time to stumble upon her as she made her way through the eastern towns. It did not matter if your feet hurt, and your body begged for some form of rest, you had to ensure that you met her so that she could provide with you anything that can bring you relief from the man who plagued you at every turn you made.

“Hello there…” A warm voice called out softly to you as you stumbled over a tree branch that was hidden beneath the many leaves that littered across the ground.

It startled you. Caused you to let out a loud gasp as you turned to face the only person within the boundless woods you found yourself in; the very same woods you thought you found solitude in. Your body tensed as she approached, her long skirts moved with the wind and stole your attention away from looking upon the wide-brimmed hat that sat so poised on her head.

“You seem lost.” She concluded, her stride halting mere feet away from you as she looked upon you with concern.

“I am not lost.” You responded, you tried to sound strong – brave even – but your shaky words betrayed your false sense of bravado “I know where I am going.”

“And pray tell, where do you plan on going?”

“A small village, near the capitol of Musutafu” You squared your shoulders and lifted your chin as high as you could, to continue the false airs of bravery in the only matters you knew how to try and make this woman leave you me.

“Musutafu?” She replied, her head tilted in curiosity as she watched you nod you own head to affirm what you had said; though you felt dread fill you veins as you watched her lips form a playful smirk “Well, if my memory continues to be strong,  and I do like to think it is, Musutafu is in the east, and you are currently heading west.”

You felt all the strength leave you as you heard her mutter those words before you quickly caught yourself as you turned your head away “And how can you be so sure? Hm? How do I know you are not tricking me?”

“Pretty simple. I travel along the many villages and towns this time of year, before the weather gets too cold, in hopes of trading my wares.” You watched as the woman pulled upon the strap of her long bag higher upon her shoulder, you could faintly hear the clatter of glass as she did so “I then travel west to go back home, like I am now.”

She paused to allow you a moment, what that moment she was expecting you to use it for you were unsure, for you felt frozen in place as dread filled your veins. Truly were you lost? And if so, how long would it be before you could make it toward that village? And once you did, how could you be sure that you would make it intime to take advantage of the potion maker that was supposedly there?

“My my, you are an avid thinker” Her musing tone broke you from your thoughts, her smirk replaced with a smile more akin to something gentle. “Suppose that wandering mind of yours is why you seem to exhausted.”

“I… I beg pardon?” You replied, as your hand touched your chest in a manner showcasing your offense

“I mean no disrespect” She bowed her head to showcase her apology “I simply am able to tell what ails a person. If you would like, I may have something that could help you?”

“Like what?” You could not help but scoff, truly there was only one person who could help you and there were miles from here, but still you relented and allowed the woman before you to rummage through her large bag; the small distraction was providing some semblance of rest you needed.

“Ah, here it is!” She explained gently, a small vial of clear liquid before holding it out to you. She chuckled when you merely stood there awe at the vial “I could tell you were in need of this, I am merely happy to have left that village when I did to stumble upon you.”

“You… you’re that potion maker.” “Peddler, most people call me.” she mused “But it is true, I do have a knack for making such creations. And I suspect this is what will help calm that lovely little mind that constantly turns itself in circles.”

Gingerly, the peddler took hold of your hand to place the cool vial delicately upon you palm before folding your fingers over it to secure its newfound home. She spoke of how a few drops within your tired eyes will allow you the chance to finally gain the clarity, and thus the solace, you so desperately needed. “Perhaps we shall see each other again someday” she mused before she sent you on your way, even provided a compass for you to use so you may be able to make it home safely without the possibility of becoming lost once more.

That night you did as what was instructed by you, warily you placed a single drop into each eye before you laid your head back down into slumber. Your mind did what it has done for longest time now, and filled the darkness with visions of Bakugou. The sides to which he showed everyone, how loud and arrogant he could be. The quieter side that showcased when he was sure no one else could see. And the trifle he caused you whenever he could; all of it flashed before your eyes.

And then it did not.

What was once a rush of visions soon narrowed down it all down until one remained. The memory of when he was first introduced to you as your knight. How he bowed to you, showcasing the courteous manner he so rarely showed, before he took your hand in his and gently adjoined his lips to your knuckles. You remembered how giddy you felt. How you had to use all your strength to forbid the bubble giggles that wished to rush forth once he showcased such an action toward you. It was in that moment it all made sense. That you truly gained the clarity that the potion that peddler had given you promised.

You were in love with him.

And when you woke the next morning, you greeted the sunrise with a sigh as you pressed your palms to your eyes; pressing gently into them to provide yourself the needed pressure to rid yourself of the haze that was held behind them and to try and wake our tired brain up further.

“Just what am I going to do?”

I never did say that the answer that would provide you clarity would be one that you wanted to hear. Though I can say that you mind will now be more at peace, as you have one focused thought rather than the many that were once tangled together. Granted, trying to find a way to confess such feeling is never easy, so should you need another potion to help you gain some courage, I am more than happy to provide.

Oh, and one more thing. It would be best if you were to avoid bright lights for the next day or two – would hate for your sensitive eyes to suddenly go blind.   

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Patchy my love! I am in need of one of your potions for Katsuki Bakugou if you please.

Oh darling Meg, I do hope you did not travel far! I know visiting me is quite the chore all on its own - and I certainly appreciate you taking the do all of this for me.

Please stay awhile, I would love to hear all about what is new and happening with you. And, do not fret, afterwards I can help you deal with your little problem. Now, what kind of tea would you like?

Infatuation had nothing to do with.

At least not at first; that was what you kept telling yourself ever single time your mind started to wander, startled to slip into thinking about the village baker.

It was purely because he was the best around, the best you have ever found; is what you would argue with yourself as you would buy yet another loaf of bread from him; needing it to get through the week. It was purely because you wanted to know the shop was doing well, is what you would reason as you walked along the cobblestone path every morning to purposefully pass his shop. It was because you had a long day and needed some respite, is what your rationale would be whenever you would indulge in some of the rolls and stew he had available for your aching body was too tired to make your own dinner.

It had nothing to do with attraction. Just simply you being provided a service you needed and that was all.

But soon even you couldn’t deny how ridiculous it all was. How many coins you were spending simply due to an infatuation you had over the baker. Though gruff and almost unapproachable, could tell Bakugou had a passion for what he did; never turned a customer away over anything trivial - if they needed bread, he would provide them with it.

And he was handsome, one of the most beautiful men you had ever laid eyes on. And perhaps maybe, possibly, that was the reason you kept coming back over and over again; for you just wanted another peak at him. Wanted another chance to see his smirk, or to hear him thank you for your purchase, or slyly watch him as he kneaded dough

Whatever the case may be, you knew you couldn’t do it forever. Not only was it behaviour that skirted the line of appropriate, you knew one day he would catch on and confront you of it.  And rather waiting for that inevitability to come beating you down, you would rather beat it, and him, to the punch. 

You asked around, to trusted shopkeeps, to see if they had any advice or knew of someone, to help you with your slight predicament and they all pointed you in the direction of a small, almost rundown, little cabin that sat just outside of town; surrounded by overgrown bush.

Though the exterior seemed to waver your confidence, you knew that to judge sole on appearance would be a mistake; and with your resolved renewed you marched over to the little shop ready for a cure to your ‘ailment’

You didn’t even need to knock, the door opening on it’s own when you approached, as if already waiting for you; yet no one was inside. Instead you were greeted with a note, on a large table that sat right in front of you; attached was a vial, of intricate and beautiful design, that contained a dark liquid

Dear Traveler,

I do apologize for not being there to provide you with the proper aide you desire in your time of need; for other matters required my presence promptly - and I could not find it in my heart to say no.

Attached to my note it a potion you can use to help with your predicament; I suggest you mix it into whatever tea, or bake into whatever dessert, you wish to give to the man of your desires. 

You should not worry of any horrid effects befalling onto him or you.

The Peddler.

You read the note again, and then a third time, all while thumbing the vial you were presented; contemplating her words and the subsequent actions that would unfold should you decide to use her potion.

It was a long trek back to your home, followed by a sleepless night, as your mind raced with all the possibilities that could unfold. Fighting between your moralities about whether or not you should trick him into ingesting a potion you yourself have no clue about; the note claims no horrible thing would befall either of you, but what effects did it have?

Though you were only human, and temptation was a mistress that could persuade even the strongest of minds; including your own. And so, you spent the next day within your kitchen, carefully crafting small heart shaped chocolates you would present to him; the best use of the potion that you could come up with - for he only ate one he would not be as effected as if he drank it all within a tea.

You wrapped each one carefully, placing them in a beautifully crafted box, one you meticulously decorated in the colours that adorned his shop, and tied it all together with a bow. The perfect little present, on you, hoped Bakugou would accept.

With unsure steps you made your way down that same cobble stone path, almost as if you had never walked it before, as you slowly made your way to that familiar bakery. The door was open when you arrived, a kind patron holding it open for you with a smile, leaving you no choice to back down and turn away as you took a deep breathe and stepped forward into the shop.

You were the only one there, you could thank the gods for that, as you heard his gruff voice asking you want you wanted; watching dumbfoundedly for a moment as he started to prepare and gather for you the items you normally got.

“A-actually, I didn’t want anything.” You stumbled out, voice a little rushed as you approached the receiving counter “I wanted to give you this instead.”

You carefully placed you present upon the counter, sliding it towards him every so slightly, before taking a step back; hands fidgeting as you waited for him to take it; legs twitching as your tired desperately not to run away.

You could tell he wanted to ask you what it was, the expression on his face clear he was confused by your action, but nonetheless he carefully opened you present; not wanting to tear or break it. Those little gestures made your heart flutter in hope as you anxiously waited for his reaction. His quiet ‘oh’ made you anxiety grow as he started down at your gift; not sure whether or not he liked it

“Can I have one?” He finally mumbled out after the a few agonizing moments of silence; fingers reaching out for a small pink heart that sat in the middle of the box.

“Y-yes of course!” You chimed, a smile small gracing your face “They are yours after all, I just hope you like them.”

You waited with baited breathe as he slowly brought the chocolate to his lips, watching as he chewed on it with a furrowed brows as he assessed your creation; licking his lips once he had finished.

And for a moment you didn’t know what to expect. You weren’t sure if the potion would work, and if so how, or if he would just shrug his shoulders and send you on your merry way. Whatever it was, you were not expecting the small smile to stretch across his face.

“These are really good, thank you” His smile widened at your surprise stare as he popped another chocolate into his mouth. “Uh, wait here, I have something for you too.”

You merely nodded, still stunned in place at the fact he finally smiled at you; and so brightly too. Your own incredulous smile graced your lips as you breathed out an airy laugh, waiting for his return.

“Here.” He mumbled handing you a small booklet for you to take, as blush dusted his face and eyes adverted yours.

“Is this….” You began, eying the contents of the paper, noting it was an invitation to a grand celebration within a weeks time “Are you asking me to go with you to this?”

“Yeah…” he shrugged, doing his best to not seem nervous “Been wanting to for a while now. You don’t have to though, I know these things are lame and whatever, but if you do wan-!”

“I’d love to!’ You interrupted, a giant smile plastered on your face, one he mirrored, as you held the invitation to your chest

“Then it’s a date.”

I should probably let you know now, I think I might have gotten my vials switched up and accidentally gave you merely a small sample of vanilla extract.

Though, lucky for you, things seemed to work out fine ;)

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Patchy, beloved, I need a forget me not potion for Bakugou Katsuki 🥺

🖤🐈‍⬛

Hello Kitten, I do always love to see you around; you truly are a presence that I can never get enough.

As well, I do love forget-me-knots, they are very pretty flowers and they smell divine when freshly plucked. Though, I suppose you are not here for some silly flower, or any flower really. I think I can provide you want you are seeking.

“Do you truly think you need that?”

You heard the peddler ask, causing you to accidentally burn your tongue on the cup of tea she offered to you once you entered her shop; gazing tentatively up at where she stood on a towering ladder, potions still in hand as she was too stunned to finish putting them properly away.

You were too stunned to speak, in all your brifd interactions with the peddler - for items small like herbs for medicine, or supplements for the earth, or specialty flowers from her garden - not once had her voice risen above the soft-spoken way she expressed her words. And never before had it sounded so firm, so incredulous over something you had managed to say. The look on her face, usually mirthful and sweet, now was displeased as she looked down at you with furrowed brows.

You shrugged your shoulders, loss of words still aparent as you tried to hide it behind another sip of your tea; it burned down your throat but you couldn’t seem to care less as your eyes adverted the form descending down the ladder.

“Well do you?” She muttered again, standing before you with her arms across her chest - a brow raised in question as she regarded you up and down once more.

“It would be nice…?” You whispered, shrugging yout shoulders again as you took another sip “He’s hard to read, I think you already know that. And he’s away a lot… always out at sea.”

You sighed, a faint smile tugging at your lips, as your finger traced the lip of your cup as you can recall the last time he returned from post; watching his ship come into port with him standing on the helm, eyes searching from you; how he lept into the sea to greet you once he found you. 

“I just…” That smile faded as you dropped you cup down onto the accompanying saucer “I would just like to know if he thinks of me while he’s away, and want him to do so, is so much to ask?”

“Oh darling,” The peddler smiled, her tone turning mirthful once more as she chuckled, shaking her head at you “as if he could ever forget you.”

She began to walk once more over to wares, to the shelves of various beautifully ornate vials of carefully curated positions. Brushing off your noises of complaint with a dismissive hand as she began searching once more for something.

Your grievances over her lack of understanding to your plight feel on eaf ears and after a few moments of watching her, you gave up. Slumping back and into the plush sofa you were one as you contemplated forgoing asking her for a potion and leaving entirely. Though you weren’t given long before a vial was placed in front of your eyes; one filled with a blue liquid so bright you could swear it was not of this earth.

“What is this?” You asked, pausing in your action to take it from her hold.

“What you asked for, what you need.” She simply replied, allowing you to slip the vial from her fingertips “Though I suggest you have it here, it tends to make people woozy.”

“You… you want me to take it?”

“Well yes, thought that was rather clear.”

“But I asked for something for Bakugou” You countered, hand holding back the vial of potion “Not for myself.”

“You asked for my help” The peddler mumbled, pushing the vial back towards you; hands calsing over yours in gentle and almost intimate way “This will help you. I promise it will not regret it, nor will you taste it in the tea I provided.”

You wanted to protest again, wanted to try and argue your way into getting her to give you the potion you really wanted. But you could tell by the look in her eye that she was not going to be deterred; and you couldn’t recount a time when she didn’t provide you what you needed, so why she start now?

With deep exhale, and a final glance in her direction, you did as she instructed. Uncoarking the small vile and pouring the bright azure liquid into your tea; watching it dissolve as if it never existed as you careful swirled to contents of the cup around; downing it all in one giant gulp - face grimacing once more at the heavily perfumed smell that hit your nose.

“Get comfortable” The peddler requested, watching you as your scooted yourself deeper into the chaise “I’ll be nearby if you need me.”

With one final smile she left you alone; to go back up that ladder once more to finish the chore she had abandoned in favour for you.

It disn’t take long before your vision blurred and you eyes began to droop. soon it was near impossible for you to keep them open; they closed without giving you much say and surrounding you in darkness. Soon you couldn’t hear, the small moans and creaks of the old wood faded until the world around you fell silent. You couldn’t move your body, your arms layed like rocks in your lap; unmoving or caring to be moved. And you could not speak, mouth shut - though not tightly - with no want or need to say anything at all.

It was if you were paralized, though you did not feel afraid; the way you felt was if you were in a deep and comfortable slumber, though your mind was racing a mile a minute - a far cry from how it normally was. Though your racing thoughts were quelled, quieted down, over the sounds of anyother voice expressing their own thoughts. It did not take you long to figure out whose thoughts it was.

They were Bakugou’s.

And they were all about you. As he thought of the ocean breeze, he though of how it would blow at your hair. When the sea water licked his cheeks, he thought of the morning kisses you place upon them, how he wished for them instead. When he tugged on a rope, and felt the stinging burn on his hand, he thought of your own - how soft and supple they were, and how they perfectly fit into his - and how he would never allow those pretty hands be marred by hard labour; not if he had a saw.

He thought of you at every moment; your eyes, your lips, your smile, your voice and laughter. He thought of memories he got to share with you; how he would chuckle to himself over the silly you do, smile at all the marvelous way you were you, and would frown - chide himself - over the fruitless fights he had with you over things that didn’t matter. You consumed his entire being, heart, and soul. And though he loved the sea and the adventures she holds, he loved you more.

The main thought of his mind, the one he thought most of all, was coming back home to you.

And when he did, you would leap into his arms once more and give him the sweetest of kisses he always wished to receive.

Now please, my sweet, stay right where you are until you feel the strength come back to you. And stay hydrated, your emotions will be off balance for the next little while, would hate for you to receive any form of headaches while recovering from it all.

And rest, it is more than deserved.

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

hi sweet patchy! if you have any spots available I would love to please request a potion for dealing with one gojo satoru. if you don’t feel comfy with him then perhaps I can recommend natsuo todoroki instead! thank you so much!!! happy halloween 🍬🍬🍬

Oh, my sweet sweet Traveler, of course there is a spot for you to garner a potion! I never turn a person away or deny them my services for which they seek. Even if I seem to be swamped with so many potion requests, I always manage to find the time to fulfil each and every one; even if it does take time.

Now, for your situation, I can tell that you are having doubts. Not with the one you love, oh heavens no, but rather with yourself. However, it is not uncommon for a person to feel inadequate, after all it is in human nature to compare – even if we try out best not to. But, what I find rather odd is that you, someone so lovely and kind, have these feelings frequently. 

To help you, I shall give you these Drops of Luna. Do not drink this, my sweet Traveler, instead I wish for you to place this upon your skin. It shall help you garner the radiance you think you lack when compared to another.

You sighed as you looked upon the mirror before you. You own reflection mirrored the inner turmoil and sense of self-doubt held within your own mind. It was not as if you were disappointed in what you saw, you never thought yourself uncomely or displeasing to the eye, you were never given any doubts to that matter. However, you could not help but wonder if it your visage was enough.

And the moment you began to question that statement, was the moment your mind would begin to spiral. To have a debate with itself in favour of both parties. One moment your mind, and thus yourself, would agree there is a bit of radiance you were missing and in the next you would agree that there was nothing wrong at all – that your beauty was truly your own and worth being worshipped.

Yet, as you stared at your appearance with tired eyes, all you could think about was how childish and silly you thought you were. You exhaled once more as you glanced down at the small bottle in your palm, how the swirling silver liquid seemed to dance all on its own, before you clutched it tighter. It took all the power in your being not to throw it away, not to scold yourself for thinking a small bit of cosmetics would solve your problems, but you couldn’t help the beratement in your mind the longer your stared at both it and your reflection.

With a huff you tossed into the bin. Taking long and deep strides out of your washing room to continue to get ready for the day. However, after a minute or two passed, a groan escaped your throat in almost pained manner as you marched back and retrieved it once again.

After all, a potion maker did sell this to you.

One who seemed to understand you the second you stepped foot in her small shop. One who so easily picked apart your confused explanation of the problem you were faced and get to the root of understanding of what you truly needed. Hell, she even stirred you attention away from the golden liquid of sun to instead recommended its compliment; the one you had just retrieved from the trash.

“Your radiance and beauty need not a boost from the sun, my dear” You could hear her voice within your mind as your recalled the encounter “It needs to be complimented, like that of the moon.”

She tucked the vial into your palm, and you could not find it in your heart to disobey or argue. You felt compelled, not persuaded, to listen. And so, you did. You left that little shop with a small smile and a slight boost to your step.

If only that good mood carried over to the next morning.

You wished you could understand why you felt as you did. But you also already knew why, you just wished it did not have to affect you so deeply, so strongly. After all, Gojo Satoru never looked in your direction anyway. It’s why you felt so childish, so silly. You were willing to try and do anything, to get a potion for yourself, to help improve your beauty so a boy could look in your direction for longer than a moment or two.  

You were exaggerating, you knew. After all, you did work together. Spent many an hour, both early and late, within the same building as each other. You would pass by him, and give him a sweet hello, every morning as you made your way to your classroom, and him his own. Gojo would always return the favour in the evenings, as he wished you a good night.

You just wished there could be something more. That your charm could allure him past the kind greetings and small talk that existed between the pair of you. But, every time you went to try, to build the courage to ask him about more personal that lesson plans and future inspections, you felt seized by a feeling of inadequacy. One that led your mind down a path of feeling unworthy. For how could someone so handsome, so talented, and bright want with someone like you?

Of course, you didn’t think of yourself as something useless. Someone who was undeserving of love and attention. Heavens, on most days you even found yourself to be a rather beautiful creature. Yet, despite of all the affirmations you, and many others, cold give it never soothed that itch within you. That, when compared to him, you seemed so dull.

And why would the Sun choose something dull as a companion.

That was why you had this elixir to place on your skin. To help boost your beauty to make it shine more prominently, to try and make you feel like you could shine just as brightly next to him. With a defeated sigh, and a shake of your head, you placed a few drops of the spiraling silver liquid onto your fingertips; dotting it along the curves of your cheek and its bone. You figured it might not do much, but it may help you just a little bit – if not to garner more of his attention than to help you through the day ahead of you.

As you walked through the main entrance of the school, already feeling unease as you knew you were a bit behind on time, your feet heavy as you took step after step toward your class you began to think of the possibilities available to you to keep those waiting for you entertained while you focused on the piled of grading you still had to do. Perhaps you could give them a workbook, or even allow them to watch a documentary? Whatever conclusion you were about to achieve, it was taken from you by the rushed and almost frantic call of your name.

Your turned around, stumbled just slightly to make certain that the stack of paper within your hands didn’t slip, as your eyes scanned the hall in concern. Though your eyes quickly grew to that of saucers as you were greeted, not with a student who needed you help, but rather a breathless Gojo Satoru – a man who needed to place his hands upon his knees to help catch himself of the breath he lost.

“Mr. Satoru!” You exclaimed, taking a tentative step towards him as you continued to assess his form “Is everything alright?”

“Yeah, yeah…” He reassured with a breathless laugh, before he finally looked up at you “Just been running around all morning trying to find you. Glad I got to ya before you started class.”

“You have? Did I forget something? Or miss anything important?” You asked as you did your best not to shuffle from each foot in nervousness over his attention.

“No, no, you didn’t miss anything, don’t worry.” He shook his head, before taking one last breath before standing upright once more

“Then why did you need to find me?” Your brows furrowed in confusion, one that only deepened when you saw the casual way he shrugged his shoulder.

“Didn’t get a good morning from you.”

You blinked. Then again. Then again, before you closed your eyes tightly to try and reel in what he had said to you. That he had walked throughout the entirety of this large building, high and low, perhaps even making multiple rounds, to the point where once he saw you that he felt the need to sprint so he may catch you before it was too late… just so you could tell you good morning. The strangeness of it all, almost put you in a shock like trance. Almost.

“You…. Went out of your way to find me, so I could…. Could say greet you good morning?” You reiterated, as your opened your eyes to see him once more.  

“I guess so, yeah…” He chuckled, though you almost exclaimed in shock over the bashful way he started to scratch the back of his neck “You always say it, and now I can’t really start my day without it”

“Really?” You felt jubilation run through your being at his sweet admission as you bit your lip to stop yourself from giggling the many schoolgirls you taught.

“Yeah.” He reassured, his own easy-going smile returning to its rightful place as he took a moment to regard you, then another this time with a cock of his head “You look different today?”

“Do I?” Your smile fell as your mind raced with the multitude of reasons why your appearance would be off today, given the rough time you had getting dressed; but all those thoughts ran silent, your breath catching in your throat, as he approached you. Loaming over you, his eyes scanned your faced over and over.

“I don’t know what it is, you don’t seem to look different” He spoke, voice hushed as it fanned over the heated flesh of your cheeks “And yet, you look more beautiful today than most. Not to say you ain’t pretty most days, just today… there is something else about you.”

You felt your knees wobble at his confession, almost buckling under your weight, as tried to catch yourself and the paperwork in your hands again. With another breathless chuckle, he took hold of your arms to help steady you, his own confidence returning as he felt pride swell in his soul over causing such an adorable reaction out of you.

“Easy now,, pretty lady. Last thing we need is for you to fall.” He said, thumbs now making a small pattern upon your shoulders as he watched you ducked your head in embarrassment.

“R-right, sorry.” With a free hand you placed it over your face, to try and ease the heat of awkwardness you felt at that moment. Though he didn’t give you much of a reprieve, as you felt a couple of his fingers push under your chin, forcing you once again to look at him.

“How about, as a way of making it up to me, we get coffee after work?

If there is one thing I have learned in my many years of potion making, there is always a balance to everything. Where there is a fire, ice will be there to soothe any burn. For every drought, rain will come back to plenish what was taken. And, in this case, for every shining Sun there will be a Moon to shimmer alongside it. Despite what you may have thought, that his bright rays made it impossible for him to notice your gleaming beams, he did.

As for your Drops of Luna, you may use them as little or as often as you may like, it will not affect you or your skin in a negative way. Though, I will say it might cause more people to come forth and give exclamations over your beauty even though nothing has changed. So, if you are alright with dealing with such attention, use it often.

If not, perhaps just on special occasions.

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Hello, @katditca I see that you have been so gracious to want a small potion from me, though I do apologize for losing your note - I suppose I lost it while traveling; a grave oversight that I hope to remedy.

Now I see that you are wanting a little bit more time to spend doing the small pleasures of life, to relax for just a moment longer. And though it may be a more difficult potion, I am happy to provide for you.

Life was ever-changing and also at such a high speed that it made it nearly impossible for one to keep up with it. But you always had to try, for if not you would be swept up with the tied and dragged further away from shore.

But at times it was hard to fight the current that was life.

You never complained much, for truly there was nothing to grand to be complaining about in the first place, and nothing ever really seemed to bother you for you were always more than accepting of the flaws of man and willing to be patient for the sake of peace.

But such skill, such generosity, to be able to handle the burdens and trials of those around you with a smile in order to keep things calm - to sacrifice some of your time to ensure those around you had whatever they needed - weighed heavily on you.

It was not like you didn’t want to do it. You loved very deeply and helping those that needed it was part of that nature, you wouldn’t trade that for anything. But at times, it seemed more of a burden than a blessing, and you risked going off into the tide.

Bakugou, however, wouldn’t let that happen.

He may not speak much, words often failing him as he has never used them much, but he could listen, and he could see; and what he saw was how weighed down you were with the current you were swimming. He wanted to help you, truly, but how could he when the current he was swimming in was just as brutal?

There simply was not enough time within the day to spare; not without a little help at least, and though Bakugou was not only a fan of reaching out to someone else for help - he can and would easily swallow his pride to ensure you got what you needed.

He wasn’t a fan of the peddler and found her tone to be mocking as she inquired about his visit - about a request for a potion - stating how it wouldn’t be easy to brew but she could make an exception in his case; how lucky was he. And he sat there, for what seemed like hours, watching her create the potion he requested with ease, her humming to an imaginary tune causing his patience to wane and eyes to twitch, but nonetheless, he endured it for you; for a small vial of time - being told it must take two people to drink the potion for it to take effect.

He mixed it with your favorite hot beverage, and him doing the same when you got home that day; he could tell your day was long, perhaps even brutal, but you still cast him that sweet smile he fell in love with, claiming your day went on fine.

“I know you’re lying” he mumbled, allowing you to sit first before he followed suit, carefully handing you your mug “You can tell me when it gets too much, yeah?”

“I know…” You sighed out, blowing away the steam from your drink before taking a small sip “It’s just, today was manageable, nothing bad really happened. So, overall can’t complain.”

“But you could.” Bakugou countered, taking a sip himself and moving to sit more comfortably.

“I’d rather just enjoy my time with you, okay?” 

You leaned into his side, allowing yourself to fully relax as his arm wrapped around you; enjoying his warmth as you both slowly sipped away at your drinks; not noticing how time started to stand still, how the clocks stopped ticking, and the sun ceased falling over the horizon. It was only when you went to go place your mug in the sink did you begin to notice; how a small sparrow sat at your windowsill, unmoving. How the trees stood still, in the middle of a breeze. How a petal of a flower stayed in the air mid-fall.

“Katsuki..?” You called out, eyes unable to cease looking at the spectacle they saw “What’s going on…?”

“I managed to get us a bit more time,” He explained, arms wrapping around you once more as his lips pressed to your neck “cause I think we needed a moment to breathe, together. So why don’t you come back to the couch and we can cuddle for a little bit, okay?”

May the little bit of extra time you get together be filled with love, my darling sweet. And please, take it easy tonight, you may find yourself a little out of sorts - it tends to happen when you're within time that doesn't move.

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Hi sweet patchy, I hope your Halloween is spooky and fun! I need a potion for dealing with the oh so troublesome Atsumu Miya. Thank you in advance!

Hello, dear Traveler, I do thank you for wanting to come to me to deal with your troublesome problem. Though, I can already tell it is not a twist of fate that has brought forth some trouble to you, but rather a person. Tis always strange, how one can behave in such a way that can causes ire to someone else. Even more so if that behaviour is deliberate to mask feelings they wish not to unearth.

After all, any attention from those that have a lack of it, is good enough – even if it means the ire of those around them. Perhaps that is what is happening? Perhaps your attention is what they seek in order to get through the day? The whatever reaction you give brings forth joy into their own soul?

Whatever it may be, I know exactly what you need in order to end such a troublesome and insufferable existence next to this man. This little Tincture of Admission should provide you what you need to end his obnoxious behaviour.

You knew that being near the company of archers and other swordsmen would be a hassle at best. That their rambunctious nature and boisterously loud voices would cause your eyes to roll and your ears to ring. But at the end of the day you never minded. You wanted to help those that protected the Crown and the people within the kingdom, yourself included, in any small way you could.

Besides, the amount of gold you got was worth the long and loud nights. It wasn’t all from the men who frequented your establishment, who would throw their coins at you for another round of ale or more of that delicious food your cook provided, but the King himself. When you inherited the large estate you now called home, you found it quite sad to leave it so empty; to turn what was once a grand abode into something baren and wasted. You couldn’t have that, and instead transformed it into an Inn for travelers to stay at – for little to no cost. To give someone in need a warm bed for the night was better than leaving that room to rot, after all.

And well, it seemed it was along the quickest route out of the land and onto the next. Only made sense for the King to take advantage of such a beautiful establishment along the quickest route into battle. Not that their visits always garnered a heaviness that hung in the air as the anticipated what was to come. No, often times a group of knights merely escorted nobility to other kingdoms, or even to go on behalf of the King himself.

Regardless, the King’s strong and capable knights visited you more frequently that the random traveler looking for a place to stay before moving onto the next village over. And with how much food, drink, and rooms they ended up partaking in, it merely made sense for the King to pay you in kind for your humble service.

You met a lot of colourful and interesting characters since turning you new home into this Inn, especially within the many knights that graced your presence. Some were very funny and had your sides aching with how often they made you laugh. Some were amazing story tellers, that had you constantly lean closer to them as you held onto every word. Some were very kind, always gave you a kind word and ensured you were tipped handsomely for having to deal with such barbarians as the night wore on. And others? They always kept you on your toes as you tended them throughout the night – for better or worse, though you always managed to find the better of it all.

Yet, through it all, only one knight made you wish to tug your hair out from its roots. For no knight was like Atsumu Miya.

It was so strange to you, as his brother was someone you liked well enough. But him? He was all the things you disliked within the Knights Corps all wrapped up into a single package, with a stupidly charming bow on top. And it was that smile that always tricked you into thinking that he somehow changed from his last visit, that he would not behave so childishly, so unabashed in his words, and cause you ire. Every time you saw it, you could not help but give him the benefit of the doubt even if your stomach was beginning to twist itself in knots.

But he would quickly delve into his old antics, making obnoxious comments, always purposefully getting in your way, and pestering you with questions that were either repetitious in nature or were far too personal. At times, his fellow knights and friends would step in and take him away and allow you reprieve. Though, most nights, he would sit at your bar and watch you like a hawk watches its prey – relentlessly striking until you find no other choice but to stomp your way to the kitchens and let your frustrations out on the dense bags of flower there.

You furrowed your brow in frustration, as you could hear his laughter ring out in your mind and you relived that familiar memory. The shouts for another round rang forth and thus broke you free from your trance as you fumbled to put away the dishes you were washing in favour of filling mugs with ale.

“Another spirit for me,” You heard Atsumu chime as you rushed past him as he sat in his usual spot at your bar “if you don’t mind, my dear Inn Keeper~”

You merely sighed, paused in your actions to continue to fill the countless mugs of their frothy content in favour to do this small request before he became more tiresome. With quite, yet pointed steps, you made your way over to him, take refill his small task before moving onto dealing with the surprisingly less troublesome group of large, drunk, men.

“Atsumu, I need you glass” Your exasperated voice rang, as you were thwarted in taking hold of it, even at a second attempt he managed to pull it away from you once more “Atsumu, give it to me!”

“Ah, see I knew you liked me~” He teased as he leaned his face close to yours, his grin grew wider as he watched your frown deepen.

Though, much to his chagrin, instead of indulging his usual dancing fair as you simply rolled your eyes as another quiet sigh left your lips. You did even spare him a second glance before you placed the large bottle of spirits on the counter before him “Just take it.”

With a shake of your head you walked back over fulfil the request of the others that were waiting more patiently; their drunken cheers and singing of gratitude lifted your spirits slightly as you placed mug after mug on table after table. But it was still not enough to satiate the irritation you that still lingered within you.

“He certainly boils your blood, doesn’t he?” A gentle voice range before you, it caused your body to stutter as you snapped your attention toward her. You recognized her as a peddler traveling back home from visiting the Western Isles – her small cart filled with glass bottled wares sat beside her, as if daring someone to ask of it.

“I beg pardon?” You questioned, watched her brow cock in slight amusement.

“Just making an observation, is all.” She shrugged to try and defuse the situation, taking another sip of her dark amber drink “He must get under your skin, for that is the only reason I can find as to why you would take such aggression out on your poor counter.”

Her eyes shifted downward slightly to where your washing cloth was bunched so tightly in your hand. It made you cough as you suddenly felt bashful in her presence as you released it from your hand and placed it back into the sink where it belonged. After a moment had passed, one where you could not face her yet could not find anything else to occupy your time as an excuse, you merely sighed.

“Yes…” You muttered, so quietly you were sure she couldn’t hear you but the cock of her head in question proved otherwise, as you nervously began to pick at your nailbeds “I do not know why he targets me the way he does, why he seems to go out of his way to make me miserable, but he does. I just wish I knew what I did to have him not like me act in such a way.”

“Not like you?” The Peddler’s voice held of tone of confusion as she spared a glance over at the man in question on the other side of the bar before her inquisitive eyes landed back to you “My sweet, I can tell you know, it is not hatred he feels over you.”

“What? No, that’s not tru-“

 “You bring out strong emotions within him” she interjected before you could deny her accusations further “And he simply doesn’t know how to react or what to do, so he acts the way he does to ensure your attention is on him.”

Your brows furrowed once more, less in frustration but it still lingered as you listened to her reasonings. Truly how childish could one man be, if her words rang true? It made you shake your head once more as you sighed in defeat – for either way the situation you found yourself in with him, was not ideal or something you yourself wished to face just yet.

“If you do not believe me…” The Peddler smiled as she open her small wooden cart to produce a vial of dark red liquid, she held it out for you to take “Simply let him drink this, and you will see.”

“What is it?” You questioned as you took the alluring glass vial into your hands, fingertips brushing over the small intricate carvings.

“Tincture of Admission, pretty self explanatory” She smiled, before she took the last sip of her drink. With a bow of her head to showcase her gratitude to you, she took hold of her belongings, in what you could assume to retire for the night.

You muddled with the thought, with the consideration of knowing truly why Atsumu acted how he did around you. To provide him a taste of his own medicine, in a more literal sense. To embarrass him in this moment to make up for the countless nights he did the same to you.

But no matter who much you relished the idea of getting a small sense of revenge, you simply couldn’t muster the ill-intentioned will to follow through. Instead your slipped the vial into the small pocket of your apron before continuing on with your tending duties. One of which, again, was to provide yet another drink to the man that was heavy on your mind.

As you took the bottle of Runeshine away from him, one he claimed he no longer wished to partake in, to ready to pour him a mug of Stout, he took hold of your arm; effectively pausing your action and instead have you focus on him.

“And what do we have here?” Atsumu mused, as he eyes the small glass vial that was tucked so delicately within your pocket.

“Nothing of your concern!” You warned, as you tried to turn away from him, to take hold the vial before he could; but your reflexes were not on par with that of a trained knight as he snatched it from you.

“Ah ha! Now this here looks like Dragon Tears, and here I thought you couldn’t handle your drink” He teased as he eyed the dark red liquid “Oh perhaps you can’t and that is why you have yet to drink it, hm? Well seeing as that is the case, allow me to take it off your hands.”

Even with your startled gasp, as your hands flung forward to try and pull at his arm to urge him otherwise, he was simply too strong. You watched, horrified, as he poured the small amount of drink into his awaiting mouth. He sputtered, clearly the burn was much stronger than he was expecting, but he simply smiled his usual brass smile as he exclaimed how good it tasted.

But as the moments passed, you could tell he was starting to get a little restless; how he no longer was able to sit still upon his seat. As well, his face – once so bright – was growing more red as the seconds dragged on, almost as if he was slowly becoming feverish from the potions effects.

“A-are you alright, Atsumu? You look a little feverish….” Your voice squeaked as you gingerly lifted a hand toward his face, though you could not but jump when he took hold of your wrist before you could make content with his forehead.

“P-please don’t.” He nearly begged, as he ducked his head away from your view “Don’t do that.”

“Don’t do what?” You asked, your breath still gone from your lungs as you tried your best to stay grounded in the moment

“Don’t touch me.” He stated again, voice strained, as he slumped further down within his seat

“Why not?” When he did not respond, you urged him again as you tried to pull your arm from his grasp and attempt again to see if he was burning up from the inside “Please, let me help you! Why not?”

“Because….!” His was strong at first, as his eyes met yours again, before it softened to a meek whimper as he looked away again “I can barely handle you being near me, I wouldn’t not know what to do if you touched me in that sweet and caring manner that I know you would.”

“What are you trying to say?” Your tilted your head to try and peer into his eyes once again, but he still looked away from you as his cheeks flushed to a darker hue

“I…. I just…. I like you alright? Never before had I met such a beautiful maiden such as you. When I met you I was struck by your smile and sweet melody of a voice and ever since then I have been hoping to get another glance of it.” He paused for a moment, as he shoulder heighted further in his embarrassment “Though, I think I’ve been going about it wrong, for I haven’t even come close.”

“Yes, you have.” You agreed, as you bit your lip to hide the ever-growing smile upon your face, to do your best to try and conceal the laughter that wished to bubble out of you. Never before had you seen him look so adorable, and so vulnerable, it was surely a sight you wished to keep in your memory. With your other hand, you gently placed it upon his cheek, guiding him to look back up at you, taking delight in how his eyes began to sparkle at the sight of your grin.

“But this surely is a good start in changing that.”

I have never been wrong when it comes to the assessment of a person’s behaviour; I do have a knack of knowing what they desire most after all. And I could tell that he simply wanted more of you, in any way he could get it. Hopefully now, though, he is able to obtain what he desires and make you happy at the same time.

Oh, and really it should be a good idea that you give him something with ginger in it. Otherwise he really will get feverish, and we would not want that. There was a reason I specified that you place that potion in a drink.

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Hai Patchy!!! Happy Halloween!! Hope I'm not to late but could i get a potion with/for Bakugou if you have one for me or him!!!

I hope you have a wonderful day or night or whenever you see this!!!🧡🖤🧡

Hello Traveler, I can always say that is never too late to receive a special brew or potion from me. You are always welcome to one whenever I am offer them, granted of course you are willing to be patient enough to wait for however long it may take me to create the perfect one for you.

But, your patience will always be rewarded. As of right now I can see something troubles you. That you seem to be close to someone, or wish to be, that just cannot seem to allow themselves the privilege to be vulnerable; despite your attempts to showcase you are. I can see you wish to be closer to them, and allow them this reprieve. Which is very admirable and kind.

To allow that to happen, may I suggest you take my Brew of Blather? It would make even those with lead for a tongue turn into silver. All I ask is that you mixed it within their favourite drink, or even stew, it can be a rather bitter brew to swallow down.

You chewed upon you lip in worry as you continued to mindless stir the hearty stew that you had made; ignoring how it was slowly bubbling up until some flecks of it jumped out and burned your hands. With a quiet exclaim of pain, you pulled your hand away and brought the wounded finger to your mouth, as your free hand turned down the heat.

Normally you weren’t so dazed when completing such a task; on the contrary you loved to make meals for others to enjoy. You were also so alert to ensure that everything came together perfectly. It was just today you had more on your mind than intended. A couple of items that were troubling you that led to your unusual clumsiness.

The main one being the person you were making this dinner for.

Bakugou was a lot of things. He was smart, strong, capable, and had a good caring heart underneath all his bravado – he wouldn’t be in his line of work otherwise. He was also one that wanted to provide, to give his partner and the budding family he wanted to have all they that needed to never have to worry about money, or food, or if they had shelter.

It was that aspect about him, about wanting to get married and have a family, that always surprised all that he told. Especially yourself, not that you thought such a goal was out of realm for even people as brutish as he could be. No, what surprised you was when he told of this domestic dream of his, he wanted you to be apart of it. To be his doting wife, one that would care for his home with the same care he would provide to you to ensure you were fed and safe.

You were blindsided to say the least, as you struggled to even voice a single word about any of the thoughts you were thinking. After all, up until that point you just assumed Bakugou tolerated you. Held a baseline level of respect for you as you mended all the torn and damaged clothing that he, and the others in his troupe, made; but nothing more.

It made you laugh then, as it did now, knowing he thought he made his intentions clear months before his proposal. That the day you helped mended a few shallow wounds upon his arm, to bandage him up enough until he got the proper help he needed was your invitation of courtship. And he stilted compliments as he said thank you after that day, alongside with an intense and lingering stares was his showcase that he had accepted, and thus was doing whatever he could to ensure a proposal.

You thought his bright red face was adorable as, despite your best judgement, you accepted.

Truly you could not have asked for me. Since that day you said you would be his, you were spoiled beyond what was necessary. A beautiful home with all the things you could ever need or want within it. And a doting husband who always showcased his acts of love, not with words, but rather actions. If your eye ever lingered a little too long at something within a shop window, it would appear to you – all wrapped beautifully – upon your kitchen table the next day. Or if you mentioned something was broken, or falling apart, in an offhand manner you would find him working on it on whatever spare moment he had.

But that brought you to your next troubling thought.

Bakugou always did so much for you, and you always felt you could do more for him. To provide him the sense of safety and security he did for you. You could not fight for him, as he could so easily for you, but you knew how horrid his line of work could be. To constantly put your life on the line for another, to constantly be in danger, and to have to sometimes watch as a life slipped from your fingers after you did all you could do, weighed heavy on his soul. And you wished he could allow you to comfort him, to allow you to take on some of that burden for yourself. He never did. Always just walked straight to bed on those days without word; simply just a kiss on your forehead and a small sad smile.

Your heart ached for him. Even as you tired to coax him with gently words to talk about it, to gingerly press your body against his to try and hold him, it just wouldn’t work. Only rarely would he hold you on those days, so tight you felt you couldn’t breath, as he tried to ground himself back – to remind himself of what he still had. It led you down a path only those that are desperate venture into.

You went and visited a peddler. One that made claims could create beautiful potions for any, and all, needs a person might have. You were skeptical when you first walked into her cluttered shop, finding your body tense as your moved about in worry to not brush against anything, your unease began to shrink more and more and you watched her interact with those that seemed to be repeat patrons. To hear them exclaim with joy over what small miracle she provided, to then ask for another was more than enough proof for you to then swallow the anxious lump in your throat and approach her.

“Oh, my poor dear.” She cooed, before you could even utter a word, as her eyes shined with sympathy while she guided you to sit upon a plush chair nearby “Your heart aches so painfully, doesn’t it?”

You allowed yourself to sink into the soft cushion, to enjoy its softness, before you adjusted yourself to sit more upright as you watched her settle down across from you. You tried to think of a response, stopping and starting a few times, before you outright sighed and nodded your head.

“How did you know?” Your quiet voice sang, as your body, tired from pretending, slouched.

“I have been blessed with many talents and gifts, some more manageable than others. One such gift is knowing just what a person desires, what their heart needs.” She began to explain, as she reached her hand out to hold yours, giving it a small squeeze before she continued “I could tell the moment you stepped into my shop, the moment you called out for my aide, that your heart was on the verge of breaking. Not out of rejection, but rather over on behalf of someone else.”

“Can you help me then?” You could feel the corners of your eyes prick with the sting tears, ones that threated to fall out, as you squeezed her hand back.

“Of course I can.”

It was her outright admission that she could that made you trust her. She provided to you a Brew of Blather, an odd-looking liquid that reminded you of the colour of moss. She had instructed you to use it either in some tea, or whatever food you would prepare him that night for dinner.

And here was where you now stood, as you finished kissing the small wound upon your finger where the stew had burned it, as you tried to decide whether or not you should go through with it all. You knew it may help, but at the same time you did not want to trick him into anything. After all, you wanted him to trust you to become vulnerable with you – to do this would set things off to a rocky start at best.

But, as you continued to mull over your dilemma, you had noticed the kitchen door open. Nor did you noticed your hulk of a husband as he shuffled in. It was only after he had wrapped his arms around your waist to cling to you, did you squeak out a gasp if surprise and be brought back to the world around you.

“Thought you heard me…” He mumbled into your hair before he placed a kiss on your crown, you could feel the small smile upon his lips as they lingered there.

“It’s okay,” You breathed out, as you relaxed your tense body to better mold into his “all on me, was lost in thought.”

“What were you thinking about?” His asked, his arms tightened their grip around you as he pulled you more flush against him.

“Nothing really…”

“Oh, is that so?” He questioned as he placed a final kiss to your temple before he tucked his head to rest upon your shoulder. “You normally aren’t so skittish.”

You tired in vain to act unbothered, to seem as you normally were when he got home; but you knew you were doing a horrible job at trying to hide from him your little secret. Especially when his hand wrapped around your wrist to pull it closer – to inspect the small vial of moss-like liquid inside.

“Then what is this?” He asked, though you could not see it, you knew his brow was cocked with curiosity as you closed your eyes tightly, to try and remove yourself from this plane of reality.

“It’s a potion…” You finally whispered out after his question hung like a cloud above you for moments too long.

“A what?”

“A potion.” You replied back, this time with more assertion to ensue he heard you properly “And before you think it, no I am not trying to poison you.”

“Then what is it for, I wonder?” You could hear this slight disbelief in his voice, but his hold upon you remained as gentle as ever – that though his inner thoughts may be screaming danger he knew you wouldn’t harm him.

“I just wanted you to open up” You sighed, as your body slumped down in defeat once more as tears of frustration filled your vision “Just wanted you to confide in me, as a husband should his wife, to allow me to carry some of your burden on the days where it gets to be so heavy.”

You could tell his was silent not out of anger, but merely doing his best to try and form a proper response to your admission; though you knew he was failing as the moment stretched further and further with not another mutter from him. It was not his strong suit, and you knew that.

“I was desperate,” You spoke again, helping him to fill the heavy silence “everything I had tried did not work. So I went and got that, and I thought of using it. But knew I couldn’t.”

“Why?” He finally muttered, his voice soft as he finally let go of your wrist, watching you as you began to twirl the intricate vile between your fingertips.

“Because I knew a dishonest start would not lead to a solid foundation of trust. And above all else, I want you to trust me no matter what.” You ran your thumb over the ridges of the small glass bottle before placing it down upon your counter “To come to me to tell me anything, even if its just to tell me about your day, because you want to, not because you are forced.”

You could hear him swallow the lump within his throat, as his grip on you grew a tighter to the point where you could no longer move. He began to speak but couldn’t find the words. His voice was raw, a sign that he was either going to cry or already was. Clearly he was moved, by what you were not sure. Not sure if it was your utter devotion to not deceive him, or your desperate plea to connect. Whatever it was, you knew you had broken ground, and you would take the victory that small step was showcasing to be.

“It’s alright,” You began to soothe, placing your hands over his own and giving them a gentle squeeze “you don’t have to say anything if you don’t want to.”

You felt him nod his head as he acknowledged your words before that nod turned into a shake; his stuttered breath your cheek as he once again attempted to speak “Would…. Would you like to hear about my day then?”

“I would love to”

I always do love when things naturally fall into line without the need of my special brews. It just proves that with patience, the fates above will help guide you to your own solution. Though, I was more than willing to help speed up that unhurried pace.

I will not ask for you to give it back, though you can if you no longer wish to have it in your possession. I have plenty more you can choose to trade it, should you feel adventurous enough to try~

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Hello potion seller! How goes your day?

May I have a potion?

My thoughts are once again turning to Osamu Miya this time of year. That handsome bastard…

My day always fares well, dear Traveler, when I am able to interact with people so kind as yourself. And I always do love the company of those that cannot find it within themselves to admit to those begrudging feelings that surround their hearts.

Ah, I can tell by the way you are now looking at me that you haven’t the faintest idea as to what I am speaking of; or perhaps you are feigning ignorance. Either way, you have before me to hopefully get a potion, am I right?

This Tonic of Perception will be what you need. I suggest having this within either within your favourite tea, or even more so, something that is very sweet. For it is a bitter liquid that can be hard to swallow if taken on its own.

Perhaps you could even have it with a sweet from the bakery down the road?

“Something sweet, huh?” You mumbled to yourself in a begrudging manner as you paced along the cobblestone path that led towards the one place you knew you could find just that.

But truly you were doing anything in your power to avoid entering that littler bakery. It was why, when you feet followed the familiar path, you tried to divert it. To do whatever you could to avoid the alluring smell of fresh bread and cake that always drew you in whenever the days grew shorter and the air colder.

That was why you ended up in that strange peddler’s company. To try and prove to yourself that you meant to finally visit the strange parlour you had been avoiding like it was the plague, and not as a diversion. To not admit to yourself that your feet were falling into old habits, and that your heart follow suit.

But, of course, fate always had something else in mind.

As you wandered about within the peddlers home, your eyes slowly took in all the strange, yet marvelous, vials and trinkets that cluttered the many shelves around you. You read each label, even took a few into your hand out of curiosity, all in pitiful attempt to waste as much time as you could to then allow you excuse of how late it had gotten so you could go home without venturing further down the road.

Yet, despite it all, a vial did catch your eye. You supposed it was the simplicity of it which is why it stood out to you. The bottle, small, but nothing more of note. The liquid was clear, looked just like water. If you did not know better, and truly the thought did cross your mind for a brief moment, you would assume that this peddler just placed water into a vial and was trying to sell it off and a powerful tonic.

“Do you like them?” She asked, when your eyes could not stray from the strange bottle before you.

“Suppose they have my curiosity” You replied with a shrug of your shoulders, finally tearing you eyes away to look upon her – her knowing grin made a frown etch the sides of your lips.

“Not surprised this one called for you,” She mused, “You seemed to be avoiding something.”

“Am I?” You questioned as she plucked the vial from where is stood so proudly before holding it out for you.

“This will help with that, Tonic of Perception is a good brew for those that are adverse to dealing with situations set before them”

“A potion, huh? This looks more like water…” You mumbled, as you examined the vial more closely before a sheepish smile graced your face as you watched the peddler bow her head in slight annoyance.

“I can understand your trepidation” She hummed, a humble smile upon her lips as she gazed at you “But I can assure you I am no fraud hoping for a quick coin from desperate people.”

It was her tone that made you wish to believer her. That and the knowledge that she was more than happy to bequeath the little vial to you free of charge. Truly there was nothing for you to lose should you decide to take her up on her truths and drink it – if it was a dud then you did not waste any money/

But there was something you could lose. If you stepped foot in that shop again you would feel his eyes upon you. You remembered the last time you had a conversation with the baker, Osamu, just before the first rainfall of the spring season. How he teased you over your constant presence in his shop. How your sweet tooth was the only thing keeping him in business. You could not understand why you were so offended, but you were. Perhaps it was the more monotone drawl he used as he teased you that plucked a nerve. All you did know if that if you showed up there again, after the season had changed to autumn, you would be proving him right and yourself a hypocrite.

Not like you wanted to be there all the time. But when the months got colder, the days would be filled more with moonlight that the sun’s rays, you felt the need for a form of comfort; of warmth. And truly the most warm place you had ever felt welcomed was that of your aunt – a confectioner in her own right. But since you had moved away from home, from where you grew up, you had yet to feel that level of warmth again.

Yet when you were in the bakery, that same sense of warmth filled your heart the same way it did when you were but a child. And over the harsh months of winter you found yourself there more and more, just wanting a glimmer of that inner warmth you so craved. You enjoyed his company as well, though eh never said much. But just knowing that his presence was there was enough for you to feel a sense of connection that helped you as you struggled with the day-to-day that life brought.

Perhaps that was why it hurt you so much when he made that jabbing comment?

Whatever it was, it did not matter now. Certainly not at this moment as you stood at the familiar doorstep of the bakery; with a deep inhale, one that you couldn’t not help but have turn into a pleasurable sigh as your lungs filled with the scent of fresh bread, you took another look at the vial you had been clutching tightly since it was given to you.

“Perhaps it will give me courage?” You muttered to yourself uncorked the lid the lid that separated you from it.

The liquid was bitter, almost intolerable, as it brushed your tongue and went down your throat. It caused you to sputter and cough as you did your best to not cause a scene. Though the bitterness soon became the least of your worries as you felt your body lose its strength and your eyes began to roll back until your vision was no more.

Darkness filled you.

But only for a moment. Just as quickly as it cascaded over you light flooded your vision once more. Then, a clear picture of the world around you as your vision grew accustomed to the light. You were in the bakery, surrounded by plenty of bread in all its forms, those cranberry muffins you always loved to eat, and a few tarts that looked mouth watering.

And yet, none of it filled you with that same sense of warmth that you grew so fond of. In fact, where you were was not familiar to you at all. You seemed to be in a kitchen, preparing to bring out all the mouth-watering goods to the display counters.

It was then that it dawned on you, perception, if what she claimed this potion was. If only you remembered that a few moments prior; though you could not further beat yourself over such a mistake given how far your mind had gone. But now, you were in the mind of someone else. Clearly it was Osamu, only he was ever allowed in the kitchens of this place. But that only heighted your confusion. For how could he not feel the same warmth you did when he looked upon his work; you knew him a proud man, one that adored the life he had made for himself.  Yet? It was if something was missing. Something felt incomplete as you continued to be a passenger within his own mind, as you viewed the world from his eyes.

A thud, not loud in nature, but still enough to take your (and his) attention away; to feel the sense of confusion and worry as he made his was from the back of his bakery toward the front entrance. You felt the panic that entered his being as he saw you, laying so helpless upon the ground. You could not help but share in his sense of urgency and consternation as you watched yourself get pulled into the shop.

Then, a tingle was felt through the panic and mayhem. A sense of relief of knowing you were alright, as well as… something else. Almost akin to homeliness as you were privy to him as he watched over you; as you watched his thumb gingerly pet across your cheek.

It was then that you realized that sense of warmth, one that showcased to you within these four walls, did not come him in the form of the bakery as you so thought.

It came from you.

Oh dear, suppose I should have warned you about what would happen should you decide to drink the potion. Though, I was suspecting that you were going to be sitting down and enjoying a treat to go with it; but I digress, a warning still should have been given.

As well, was not the best move to drink the whole vial – again my fault for not providing you the knowledge needed – as merely a few drops would have sufficed. I’m afraid you will be stuck as a passenger for a little while longer, but no more than three hours at most. Once that time has passed you shall wake with no issue.

Though, I do not envy you the headache you will face.

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

PATCHYY BABY!!! hope you’re doing well my love! this event is so cool, can i have a potion for dealing with nanamin please?🥺

MWAH!! big kiss for u ily🩷💛

Oh Traveler, how grateful I am to have you here, it brings me so much joy to know you wished to visit my little shop, let alone grace me with all those kind compliments. Truly your heart is far more kind than I am sure you allow yourself the credit for.

But I digress, you are here with a most simple problem that many face. It is hard to come to terms with ones own emotions, let alone having to then confide them to someone else. That level of vulnerability is not for the faint of heart, and though I can see your heart is strong, it too is guarded when it comes to wishing to let its feelings be know.

Determination Draft shall help you with this, though I do advise you drink the whole phial. Would very much hate for your pluck to run out while you are in the middle of your confession.

You did not want to have to come here. To beg a peddler for her wares. You did not want things to go as far as they did. But alas, you could not change the fates design for you, let alone the one they chose for your heart to claim as your own. And you were willing to set your pride aside if it meant you got a semblance of levity from the way your heart ached so painfully.

It was not as if Nanami was bad man. On the contrary you were hard pressed to find any other that was as selfless and kind as he was; he always showed no qualms in stepping in to help where it was needed, with never a want to be repaid – not even needing a thank you once all was said and done.

It was just, he had a demeanour about him that always was a little off-putting to those that did not know him well. How demanding, and oft terrifying it was it be within. It never lent itself to making someone feel wanted if around. And you, despite how selfless you wished to be, always hoped that he would showcase a tiny semblance of enjoyment of having you near him.

Ever since you met him you were drawn to him, like a moth to a flame. And perhaps that is why you always felt so hurt, after all a moth cannot stay in the light without sacrificing its life. Not that you were willing to go to such a degree. But you could not help the way your heart would beat so forcefully, as if it needed him, whenever he was near. At first, you thought it was merely a crush, the kind you had gotten when you were but a younger girl; that you merely were so enamored by his handsome visage and strong physic.

Yet, as time passed, and you were privy to many a small moment that showcased a different side to him, you began to feel an allurement that claimed you, and as more time passed it began to tighten its hold over you; growing ever more tight, until you ended up where you are now – breathless and unable to do anything but try and hold on.

It became clear to you that this was not a mere infatuation, not some silly school yard crush that would leave you with blushing cheeks and giggles. This was far beyond that and you were at a loss of what to do. You were not exactly known for taking a leap, of becoming brave and admitting forthright how you felt. Or perhaps maybe you were, but you could find yourself the pluck to do so with him. The moment his eyes would land upon you, a meekness would overcome you to the point where you wanted to do nothing more than to scurry away; half the time you did.

Though, it was not to say that you were entirely a timid mouse in the jaws of such a lion. You had, in your own small ways, showcased to him your attraction. Be it with the need to always wish him good morning, to always ensuring that you got him his favourite coffee, to the small gifts you would hide within his jacket pockets. Yet it never seemed to work. A nod of acknowledgement is all he would give to your cheery greetings, you would find the exact change that his coffee would cost sitting upon your desk every time you came to back to it at the end of the day, and those small gifts always seemed to find its their way to his desk to remain unopened.

You knew the solution. A pluck more of courage to tell him directly what you felt. Even if he did not feel the same as you, at least you would have an answer and can move forward from this stagnant, purgatory-like, situation you have placed yourself in. Yet it never came to you.

It was why you were here as you scanned vial after vial, all marked so beautifully with scripts of their names, as you tried in vain to find one that you would recognize as something that could help. Your fingertips brushed over an array of colour, from blues, to greens, to purples, to now the bright crimsons as you muttered to yourself some affirmations that you were possible on the right track.

“May I help you find whatever it is you seek?” The calm voice of the woman who let you in asked, as she stood nearby and watched you with curious eyes.

“I suppose?” You whispered out, a little timid to be caught talking to yourself, nonetheless you turned to face her fully and embrace the help she was so willing to give “Looking for something that will give me courage.”

“Ah, I see. You need not feel embarrassed, even the most brave of knights come here to ask for a boost of pluckiness to help them through their next mission.” She smiled before taking a step towards you and the many vials behind you, as her eyes darted over the carmine creations “Though, I do think Blood of a Lion is far too strong for what you need.”

“N-no! Truly I do not think that right!” You tried to protest, as you followed her away from the alluring bottle of red courage towards those of a softer nature “I can barely even allow myself the courage to speak to him, let along confess such strong feelings.”

“Yet you still do bring yourself to talk to him, which makes you more brave than most” She smiled, eyes shining with warmth as she continued her search “I know it must be hard to place your faith in the hands of a stranger, but trust me I shall not lead you astray.”

She placed within your hands a phial filled with liquid that reminded you of a petal of a pink rose. Determination Draft she called it, it would allow you the ability to speak what was on your mind to anyone; even those most frightening of creatures would not deter you from speaking the truth upon your tongue.

It was just the push you needed to allow you to finally take a stand and no longer be a helpless passenger in what you called your life; you could take control again. Even if it led you down a bumpy road of humiliation that rejection would bring, you would still take it over being held back and frozen in place from the meekness that had taken over.

You just wished the perfume that wafted from the phial was not so strong; though it was a pleasant aroma it still made you gag when it first touched your nose. Though it still could not deter you from what you wanted. You simply pinched your nose before you brought the vial back to your mouth, and in one fell swoop, you downed the entirety of it all.

A heat followed the liquid, from where it danced upon your tongue, down your throat, until it pooled within your belly. It was that warmth, that fire, that reignited your vigor and set you blood aflame. If this was how you felt with a weaker potion, you could only imagine was beasts you would slay, the foes you would conquer, should you have had the more crimson blood potions you first fought for.

With that spike of adrenaline coursing through your body, you knew you had to act quickly before it left you once again. With a deep inhale you marched your way down to where you knew Nanami would be hiding away at this time of day; to try and allow himself some peace and tranquility before his colleague would call him forth and cause him ire. You had made contact with his door, you could barely hear the loud rapt your knuckles made over the sound of rushing blood that filed your ears; though the sound of your name from his lips rang clearly though it all.

“This is certainly unexpected” His voice had an unfamiliar lilt of surprise to it “How many I help you?”

You did not wait until he opened his door further to allow you in, instead choosing to push you way past him into the small space he was hiding out in. If your mind had not been freed of any semblance of decorum, you would be horrified of your actions. Yet, you decided to ignore the small glimmer of shock in his eyes as you squared your shoulders and tilted head so you could finally look him in the eye.

“I have something to tell you.”

I can already tell just how well it all went; given you have yet to come back and ask for another potion to aide you – whether it be to allow you the chance again for some pluck, or to help you through your heart break. Though, please, I would for you to stop by again to hear how the rest of the story went.

Oh, and before I forget. Might be best to avoid as many people as possible while that potion still runs hot through you. I would hate for you to say what you truly felt about someone, especially those you are not fond of. I never like knowing squabbles arose from my hand.

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

I have plenty of potions.

All kinds for every need and situations a traveler like yourself will find yourself in. If you feel brave enough to want one. Some are made for obtaining love, others strength and power, some even for beauty or happiness. Whatever any heart desires can be made and found by me.

But they cannot be bought, oh no. There is a reason many call me and my small business a failure, as I give my wares away for free. One potion to one person. The only catch is, I decide what potion you get; what potion your heart truly needs.

So, will you trust this failing potion seller?

I seem to find myself alone in my little shop coming up to the New Year - and though I do not mind, company during New Year festivities is always nice - so please partake if you like.

As this little event, ask game, whatever you like to call it is exactly what you think! A fun little mystery! All you have to do is go into my ask box and ask for a potion and I will give you one, and perhaps write a little drabble on the outcome of that potion when you use it.

I can and will add your favourite character to the drabble, you just gotta specify who when making your request!

So, for example, “Hi Patchy, I want a potion for dealing with <insert favourite character>

Or, “Hi Patchy, can I have a potion. I really like <insert favourite character> and need something that can help with it.”

And the rest, as they say, is history! Well… it’s up to me, but you all can trust me!

Also, please be sure to read my rules before requesting! And, as always, my trusted and frequent visitors (moots) will have priority over the new travelers that make their way to my shop.

The sign for my little shop will say 'open' from December 30th at 12 pm (EST) until 11:59 pm December 31st. You have until then to request one of my creations; so, act quickly.

Or else it’ll be gone forever~

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Hi patchy! I always love this event when you do it. I believe I did Bakugou last time so I wanted to try someone new this time! That's of course if you don't have too many entries 🖤🐈‍⬛

Hi Patchy my beloved, I have this huge crush on pro hero Izuku Midoryia and I need a potion for it please.

Love seeing you around patchy! Happy Halloween 🎃👻

🖤🐈‍⬛@katsukikitten

It always puts a smile to my face to see you here, sweet Traveler. Even more so to hear of people like who come seeking my talents over something so saccharine and innocent as that of a crush. How it makes childish fools out of the best of us. Even the most wise, and those withered with age, are transported back to stuttering children with rosy cheeks when confronted with such pleasant foe.

Though, if you are here, I can tell that you do not find yourself enjoying the coy battle that new has brought. Perhaps it is due to said person being unworthy? Perhaps it has taken too much of your time away from your more important tasks. Or, perhaps…. Perhaps you are faced with someone who is far too bashful to know what to do when you confronted them?

Whatever the case may be, the solution is a rather universal one. A simple philter, an oil you rub upon your delicate skin and it will help whoever is lucky to be near its sweet scent to push passed their trepidatious and allow themselves to fall headlong into the rush that is young love.

“Oh, my dear…” The peddler before you mumbled, it was clear she was troubled over your request though you could not tell if it was due to her talents or the morality of such a thing.

“Can you not do it?” You responded after a moment had passed between you, and then another. Your nerves aflame with anxiousness as you began to play with the cloth of your sleeve.

“I make it a habit to let all those who venture into my shop know that there is no issue that one could stumble in with that I would find too ridiculous nor potion I cannot make.” She spoke, though her words were slightly muffled to the nail of her thumb sitting between her teeth.

“But you will not do this?” You questioned, your small sigh when she shook her head turned into a scoff as you turned your head away.

Not that you were angry with her, after all it was not her fault that you were in such a state – such a predicament. It was not her fault that you came in with stumbling feet due to such dire desperation; but you were just that, desperate. You had not planned to be in this situation, nor were you hoping to feel like a silly teenaged girl once more, but it seemed life always enjoyed watching you struggle.

After all, you thought you were too old to have a crush.

Too old to feel a mixture of anxiousness and giddiness bubble forth and run wild within your stomach whenever you saw him. Or to have your hands get all sweaty whenever you had to speak with him. And lord, have your thoughts and words become a stuttered and jumbled mess whenever you spoke to him. It wasn’t as if you assumed that garnering such strong affections for someone would never happen after your teenage years, you were not an idiot. You knew that in no matter what stage in life, love would affect you in some manner when you found the right one.

You simply just hated how stupid it made you feel. You were a professional after all, one that had never stumbled or made of fool of themselves since entering your corporate field. And now you felt you were reduced to nothing more than a schoolgirl trying in vain to get their crush to notice them; even for a brief moment. And yet, you were at its mercy. For no matter how hard you tried to end your internal torture, to gain control of the situation and do something, it never worked.

For, sadly, Izuku Midoryia was in a far worser situation than you.

You gathered that fairly quickly after you first met. Even before you felt the overwhelmingness that budding love would bring, before this little infatuation began, he presented himself as nothing more than a timid mouse in the presence of a beautiful woman. It made you laugh, when he finally scurried away from you, how such a strong hero – one that brought fear into the hearts of any criminal within the country – would become nothing a timorous man with a face flushed a darker red than the cherries he was snacking on when you introduced yourself.

And that was the problem. Not only did his neurotic behaviour and endless mutterings when he thought he was alone endear yourself to him, to the point you ended up thinking it charming, but that once you did start to show hints of attraction towards him, he was suddenly harder and hard to find. As if too nervous to face you, and be confronted with the idea of a date, as if worried he may die of a heart attack if you did.

At the end of the day, it was simply too difficult to try and rid yourself of a crush if you could not face the person you had one on.

And that was why you were here. The fair few you had confided in, after they confronted you over your work not being done to the high standard and calibre you had set yourself up for, told you of this so-called peddler and her little cart of tinctures she brought to fairs and shows – she even had a small shop a few blocks. One of them even claimed that they worked. She had boasted that the brew she was given made courage run her veins. You thought that if a small vial of mystery liquid could do that for her, even for a short while, it could perhaps help you with your little predicament.

Though, you will admit, after yet another moment had passed as you gazed upon the peddler’s profile that perhaps you had asked for something far too grand and far-reaching than your little situation would have called for.

“I have never, nor will I ever, make a love potion” The peddler stated clearly, her eyes now moved to stare back to you “If love was never there, then it never would be and I refuse to fabricate love and force an unwilling party into it. It does nothing more than create disarray and proves a mockery of my craft. So, I am sorry, but I must decline your request.”

“….I see” You whispered out, eyes darted toward the floor as you were unable to hold her intense gaze “And I respect your decision. Perhaps I was far too bold to with my claims when I first came to you.”

“I do understand your dilemma though.” She spoke again after your words hung in the air, causing it to grow sorrowful “So perhaps we can come to a compromise?”

The Peddler was true to her word, a compromise was achieved. You did not walk away from her small shop with an armours potion for utter devotion and love, but rather a small philter of rather sweet, scented oil for you to use upon your skin in order to allow whoever took even the small inhale to lose that timid barrier. She had instructed for you to place it upon your wrists and behind your ears, for the small act of motioning your hand or tucking some hair away from your face was the inconspicuous of ways to allow the scent to spread.

With a determined sigh, you rushed back toward your office with hurried footfall; in the hopes that you would be able to place the concoction onto your skin and ‘run-into’ him before the day was over. You knew you had all the time in the world to test if that strange woman was a fraud or not, truly it was not as if you or Midoryia were going to be leaving the agency anytime soon. But after the months of feeling so helpless stuck underneath the humiliating weight that love was forcing you under, to rush seemed to be the only answer to ensure your freedom.

But, once more, life seemed to enjoy watching you stumble and stutter your way through it. For as your walked through the clear glass doors you had done so many times, your eyes set on the small vial in your hand, you failed to notice the person rushing to leave through them.

There was always good within the bad. Though it hurt, having your head knock against such a strong body, you were grateful that you were able to keep that little bottle clutched tightly in your hand. Though your heart seemed to sink down to your stomach when you were asked if you were hurt.

“Your eyes are watering, did I hit your nose?” Midoriya asked, worry clearly written upon his faced as he held you by the shoulders, his eyes scanned over every inch of your face and body to ensure no injury had fallen upon you.

“N-no… no I’m fine” You swallowed as you did your best to avoid his eye as humiliation began to swallow you hole, truly this was not the scenario you planned.

“Are you sure?” He asked, and though you felt his grip upon your arms lessen it was not enough for you to break free of his hold; something you so desperately wanted to do.

“Yes.”

“Are you sure?” He asked again, moving his face to better peer at your own, “I need you to look at me and tell me that you are. It’s the only way I’ll know for sure.”

With a shaky sigh you relented, though slowly, as you lifted your head to peer at his boyishly handsome face; you did you best to ignore the heat you felt upon your cheek as the small buckling of your knees “I’m fine.”

“Good.”

Though he was pleased with your answer, his grip upon you had not changed. You watched closely as his own cheek began to flush, while his eyes darted between looking into your own and upon your soft lips. You were so transfixed, so unaware of anything other than his beautiful green eyes, that you did not realize he was leaning toward you until your felt his warm breath upon your tickle your upper lip.

“Mr. Midori - !” He stole the last syllable from you, as well as your breath, when he finally pressed his lips upon yours; then gentleness his kiss gave made your heart beat out of its chest as you melted into him.

As I say to all who come to me searching for a potion of love; if it is truly there between two people, it will show itself in time. I could sense that it would come between you to at just the right moment, that some small catalyst will set something in motion to allow one of you to finally feel brave enough to take that leap.

Though, if I am honest, I did not think him courageous enough to make such an advance toward you so soon after our encounter.

Oh, suppose I should also say, now that honesty has captured my tongue, that that philter I have given you will not work in the manner of which I told you. It will not cause whoever inhales its scent to slightly lose their inhibitions around you, tis merely a very strong perfume. Though I still suggest wearing it upon your wrists and behind your ear should you want to use it.

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Oh my darling dear @scarlettriot I do apologize once more for losing your note, and therefore losing what was needed to make your potion! I do hope it was something along this vein, and I do hope you can forgive a simple peddler like myself.

Please, take this as a token of my good faith. I had sensed that this man, Kirishima, had been on your mind quite a bit lately and I think I have just the thing for that

You lived a simple life; one that dealt with cloth and sewing needlings as you carefully combined them to make an assortment of gloves and handwear. To be a glove maker was not one of glamour or boasting, but you would not have it any other way. You took pride in the perfectly constructed creations and the serenity of the mind it gave you while making them.

Well, most of the time.

You cannot lie and say that the few times you pricked your hand didn’t make you hiss in pain, eyes staring daggers at the offending piece of metal, didn’t make you huff in anger. Or when a patron came to you demanding you create gloves made of material that was nearly impossible to do, didn’t make you curse under your breath as worked tirelessly to fulfill the request. Or those that came to you to with a request on a short deadline, you would certainly stay up all night red in the face with anger over the ordeal.

There was good that always went hand in hand with the bad in your line of work, and Kirishima Eijirou was the perfect example of that. A generous and kind man, who always paid you more than what was needed, and always came to you at the last possible second for replacements. Whether that be for formal gloves, to those he uses in his gardens, there was always a strict timeline he had you under.

It certainly made things very interesting for you. You would always sigh in defeat whenever he would request a favour from you, knowing you could never say no to a man as sweet as he was - especially not when he looked at you the way he did. You were a sucker for a handsome man with sad eyes after all, and though Kirishima didn’t know he was, he was taking full advantage of that.

Time and time again you spend many a sleepless night huffing and puffing to finish his purchases; and every morning after, when you would go to give him a piece of your mind, his smile would make you melt and all would suddenly be forgiven.

You seemed to be a fool in love, and you wished you weren’t. There were more important things to do with your time than be lovesick over that sweet man; things like gardening, preparing a meal, reading a good book, or even working on your other passions.

And yet here you were, daydreaming about him at all hours of the day. Over what meal is favorite, what he likes to do on a rainy day, what is his favorite outfit to wear, how he starts his morning and does he eat enough in the day. All them riddle your brain until you couldn’t even focus on your work - gloves being stitched wrong, fingers being pocked and pinched until they were sore, and days blending into one another to the point you became behind on your orders.

All this over foolish redhead.

Well, enough was enough. That was kept playing in your mind as you marched your way through the market and to the small run-down cart of a peddler that would frequent the square every now and then. If anyone could help you with your little problem it was her - or so many within your town had said.

She gave you a coy smile at your request, one you couldn’t tell was playful or mischievous due to the brim of her hat covering her eyes. Nonetheless, she handed over a vial of crimson, with golden detailing, for you to keep. She claimed it would help with all the pesky thoughts.

“Don’t get it on your skin.” she warned, hands folding in her lap as she leaned back in her chair “It might burn you if you’re not careful.”

Her warning sent the hairs on your arm to stand, eyes the small vial with caution as you wondered what it may do to your body if you were it ingest it. But she merely disregarded your question, your trepidation of taking it, with a wave goodbye and the hope to see you again soon.

And really, you were desperate. You were more than willing to take the risk of your insides going aflame if it meant all the puppy-love thoughts could be quelled even for a moment - not that you hated them entirely, you quite enjoyed the fantasies they brought you on, but you couldn’t live in fantasy; you had to face reality at some point and you hoped this would help. And besides, everyone else who was lucky to get a potion ended up fine…. For the most part.

You knew he had pair of gardening gloves to pick up that evening, you had spent all night working with the burlap after all, and perhaps then would be a good time to test the peddler’s craft; to help bring reality to your rose coloured world that revolved around him.

You took a deep breath, mentally taking a leap of faith, as you took a swig from the vial; keeping your eyes closed to keep you in tune with your body. After a moment you sighed in relief over the complete unchange that happened; your body not set ablaze. And at a perfect time too, as the gentle rapt at your door meant Kirishima was here; ready to pick up his order.

And yet, when you went to open the door, to hand him the gloves, those thoughts never ceased. In fact, they ran more ramped then ever, like your mind was leaping from you with all the thoughts and possibilities you could have with the man standing but a few feet away.

“I wonder what perfume she’s wearing, it smells so pretty, much like her. Suits her well.’ was the last thought you had, or at least the last one you focused on. It made your eyes go wide as it repeated over and over, thoughts about you. The potion didn’t grant you the ability to silence your thoughts, merely gave you the chance to read his.

And with that bit of courage, of knowing he thought of you as much as you did him, made you swing open the door - gloves being tossed aside as you greeted him warmly.

“So, you like my perfume?”

I hope my potion met your standards, but please make sure you handle that vial carefully - it really can burn your skin if you are not paying attention

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Oh dear Patchy, I seem to be having a villain problem, one Shigaraki Tomura, to be exact. If it's not too much trouble, could you brew me up a little something to help?

(I adore your games and am practically vibrating to see everyone's potions!)

Hello dear traveler, I am so very excited to meet with you; I always love seeing new faces around here and providing them with all the potions their heart needs.

And I do very much thank you for your kind words, I do try hard to curate the best possible outcome for those that ask for my services, and I hope I am able to provide the same for you.

You knew you weren’t suppose to like him. Knew that, as a person of your status there were certain rules that pertained to you and how you could be associated with; and especially certain rules on who you may court and unltimately marry.

And a cobbler was certainly not one of them.

Especially one that worked within darkness and shadow, and though he was incredibly skilled, he was always covered in filth from the dyes and waxes he used. And yet Shigaraki Tomura was the one your heart gravitated to.

You didn’t see him as lowly or filthy, you just saw him as a man who was passionate about his work; and how that passion overtook the need for appearances. You would admit, however, that light, being within the warmth of the sun, would do him many favours; but you understood why he lived the way he lived. And you couldn’t help but constantly partake in his services.

Over and over again you would visit his little cart, buying shoes you had no need for just for the chance of a brief interaction with him, only for said shoes to be neatly tucked away within your wardrobe - to never be worn or see the light of day - for they were too pretty, and you wished not to wreak his craftsmenship.

That being said, you had no issue tearing, bending, snapping, and overall breaking those shoes you did own - ones made by other hands - just so you could have yet another excuse to ask for his assistance in repairing them; they always did end up looking better than before when crafted by his hands.

Though you cared little about status, or money, you knew that if you truly wished to follow your heart, you had to actually act on it; you could not just rely on spending your coin on his services and prendting it meant anything more any longer.

But the problem was, he never spoke to you. Only curt nods and hums in response to your greetings, questions, and gratitude. How were you suppose to follow your heart if you did not know if where you heart led to was one of promise?

You supposed that was the structure of what love was; that oft times you would have to go through heartache and rejection in order to find where it was meant to go. But rejection you could handle, it was the unknown due to his lack of proper interaction with you that left you stumped on what to do.

And, as a last resort, you went went to a peddler.

For desperate times called for despereate measure; and though you didn’t believe potions were anything more than coloured and oddly tasting liquid that truly didn’t do much, you were willing to believe and take a chance this once if it meant it could help you with your current struggle.

She bestowed to you a bright golden liquid, a flare of sun, with the promise that one touch would allow a person to see the brightness of the world around them; and what better way to make him speak the truths in his heart over that?

You had your doubts, of course you did. Words tied together in riddles always left your skeptical over if it was truly authenticious; but there was no harm in tyring. No harm in placing a few drops on yet another slipper whose heel you had purposefully broken for him to touch and fix.

Which you did, not waitied on baited breathe when you handed over the limp and lifeless shoe his way; eyes looking fondly, as they always had, when turned the slipper over and over and inspected it.

“I like when you visit” he mumbled, hands already beginning his work as he began delicately hammer small nails in place.

“Pardon?” You retorted, head shaking to break you out of any posible stupor you might have found yourself in - clearly not believing he was speaking to you.

“I like when you visit” He mumbled again, though more clearly “I like it when you’re around, I think your company is lovely.”

He finally looked up at you, briefly, but you still managed to catch his eye; and how bright they were. His ruby eyes, normally so dull and lifeless as they regarded you, were full of life and brighter than ever before - like a shimmer jewel. You coudln’t help but admit that perhaps the peddler was right, especially at his next words.

“I would love more of it, if possible.”

I do hope you kept some of that potion, it is always useful to garner truth out of people - should you want it. Though I will advise, and allow you to advise your new partner, avoid looking at bright lights for the next day or so - you might end up temporarily blind.

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Hi Patchy! I recently found your blog again (I swore I was already following but I wasn't. 🥺) and I would really love a potion. I can't seem to get Eijiro Kirishima out of my head and I was hoping you could help! Lots of love! 🤗

Hello there Chris, so lovely to see you within my little shop once more; I truly enjoy seeing those from previous lives back again; truly it is a wonderful thing.

As for your request... I always make it a notion never to create love potions; for using one to gain the love of someone is not truly love at all. Though, I do suppose I can think of something...

A love potion. That was all you asked for.

You dragged yourself to try and find however could make one, caring little for the how long or how expensive it may be, for you knew one thing was for certain; you wre in love with Kirishima Eijioru, one of the knights of the royal court, and the only way to get in him out of your head - at least in the worrisome, heartshattering, way - was to know if he loved you too.

It wasn’t as if you wanted things to be like this; that you wanted your daily thoughts to be consumed by one thing. It just… sort of happened this way. As a lady in court you would have run ins with all sorts of people within it, those that were part of the crown - lords, ladies advisors, and nobles - and those that were to protect it - knights, rangers, and scholars. 

You were always polite to those you encountered, finding that what they do, what errands they were on, to be fascinating to the grand scheme of things. And you couldn’t lie, the knights that were to protect the crown were incredibly handsome. You often found yourself giggling and gawking with the other ladies of court over them as they went about their days.

But only one stuck out to you.

The crimson haired Kirishima, the one who always worked alongside the more popular - and brooding - blonde Baakugou. They were the leaders of their troop, the strongest, most dedicated, and favoured by all.

Kirishima was always so kind to you too, in the brief run-ins you would have as you both tried to get on with your days. Always so sweet to ask you are, and if you were enjoying your evening, especially at all those fancy soiree. You would always want to ask him to dance, or to join you in another drink, but he was always dragged away by another pretty lady before you would have the chance.

And the day dreams you would have. They would flood your mind as you carried out all the mundane chores your daily life was riddled with; wonder if he was doing the same, wonder what he would do or say if he was with you, how he may distract you from it all entirely - the latter of which you would always save for when you were alone.

But now it has all gotten out of hand. And the only way to cease the plague of thoughts, to keep your heart from battering your chest of the unknown and uncertainty so you may move on in the most appropriate fashion, was to obtain a love potion. Not for its ability to coerce someone into loving you, but just to know if they do.

Which is where you are now. In the home of a potion peddler, a run almost run-down clutter mess of a home - it’s initial charm had run out when the woman before you claimed that she did not make love potions. Making your entire long journey to get to her entirely pointless.

“I am truly sorry, I do know that it upsets you to hear such things” She began to explain, her silver spoon carely spinning with her tiny teacup “I just find love potions tricky; and more often than not, those that commission them become unhappy of their situation.”

“So what shall I do then, hm?” You said through gritted teeth, trying to keep your composure - you wren’t angry, more so frustrated, as tears pricked your eyes “I’ve come all this way for your help, and it was for naught?”

“I never turn a traveler away…” She sighed, spoon coming to rest on the table as she stood from it “I shall help you, though I wish not to hear complaints if it is not what you wanted, understand?”

You merely nodded your head, fearful your next words may change her mind, as your eyes filled with slight hope as you watched her search through the many vials and bottles that littered her walls. Finally settling on, and picking up, a vial of bright red oil on that you could swear matched the colour of Kirishima’s eyes.

“Oil of Avidity” She named, holding it out for you to take “Two drops on either side of your neck shall be more than enough.”

You gingerly took the vial from her grasp, being sure to hold it to your chest once it was truly yours; nodding your head in understanding. Slowly standing from your spot, ensuring your grip on the vial was tight, as you made your exit out of her cabin; her hand dismissing you with no further words.

You knew Kirishima would be at that stables that night, he always partoled the grounds every third night - ending just before the bell tower chimed 10. So that was where you planned to meet him, for he would be alone and it would be away from prying eyes - for the last thing you needed was the endless, childish, gossip of court to be around you.

‘Two drops’ you whispered to yourself as you approached where he would be, rubbing the oil into your skin before tucking the bottle back into your bodice once you had finished; it overwhelming smelt like rose water and amber, making your mind a little dizzy as you breathed it in. You took one last deep breathe to steel your resolve before making your presence known, as casually as possible.

Kirishima greeted you with that same warm smile and it made your body flare up, heat rushing to your cheeks and ears as felt all air leave your lungs. His concern only made it worse as he came to your aide, placing his hands on your waist to steady you as he looked you over.

His hands felt like lave where they sat, further heating your body to an uncomfortable level as you shifted and panted over it all; the fire now growing stronger with your belly the longer he held onto you.

“Are you alright, m’lady?” He asked, gulping at the groan he garnered in response “Are you feeling unwell?”

You nodded in response, unsure what evil spell the peddler placed on you, you both wanted to curse her for causing you this suffer, but thank her for the delciosuly feelings that welled up inside you from pressing his body to yours.

“D-do you need me to help you?” Kirishima spoke, tone turning unsure as he felt the way you pressed his chest to his - and though he wasn’t complaining, he still was a gentleman and would never want to force himself upon a lady.

“P-please” You panted out, hands gripping tightly to his tunic and tugging on it “I-I need you so bad.”

Using the grip you had, you managed to pull him further down until your lips clumsily met his; wrapping your arms around his neck to try and keep him in place as you relished in the feeling, relished in the ache that engulfed you dimmed. 

But that dimming was merely temporary as your body burned alight once more when you felt his lips press back against yours. 

“How I waited for you to say that.”

Hm? Did you truly think that potion was for him? As if I would provide such a thing to a stranger.

I do hope you enjoy your night, though please rest plenty tomorrow - potions like those tend to…. wear out those that use it.

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

I'm breathing on the window of your blog with my nose pressed to the glass, wondering if there's a potion in your store to help me deal with overwhelming kirishima feelings.

Well hello Nemo, how wonderful it is to see you here. Though please, no need to fog up my glass, my shop is always open for you! Come in, sit and stay a little while; I just made some tea for your visit.

And as for your overwhelming feelings, I may just have something for you...

Bookbinding was not the most glamorous of work; but it did provide for you with an honest and decent living, one where you could live comfortably and eat well - one that was not too labor intensive or left you working at all hours of the night, and truly what else more could you ask for?

It also provided you the opportunity to meet with the village’s blacksmith. A strong, and intimidating, man with fiery hair and eyes that easily towered over you and dwarfed your frame with his massive size; you doubted that there was any trade out there that could fit like him so perfectly than that of smithing.

Yet despite his appearances, the blacksmith was a very kind and sweet man, one that eased your nerves when you stood before him, frame almost trembling at his imposing nature, with a shake of his hand as he introduced himself as Kirishima. His large hand was warm, calloused from years of his trade, as his toothy smile regarded you warmly; asking for your name as he welcomed you into his shop.

From then on you felt blessed to be a bookbinder for it allowed you the chance to visit the gentle giant’s workshop; to have him delicately create the many hooks you needed to bind twine with parchment. To allow yourself the chance to bask in his glory and presence without getting too far into your head and worrying.

“It is a necessity,” You would whisper to yourself as your nervous footsteps approached the workshop “for both him and I.”

And for the longest time, it worked.

Though, as you found, time makes a fool of us all in one way or another. And before you knew it, those nerves that etched deep within your stomach - that fluttered about wildly - were not do to being frightful and unsure of the blacksmith. But rather because you had grown to enjoy his company, and became attracted to his kind smile, warm eyes, and sweet nature.

It all became overwhelming all to quickly; how your heart hammered so violently within your chest that you found it hard to breathe whenever you stood in his presence. That his smile made it hard to you to form a single thought or hear a word he uttered to you; causing you to stutter over yourself as you tried, and failed, to recover from your embarrassment. And to focus even slightly on something as he worked on your order could never be done, and you could only pray to the gods above that he never noticed your staring.

It was hard to be a professional, to get work done in a timely fashion, with all these emotions and feelings pulling you in all sorts of directions. You wanted desperately for some serenity; a moment of reprieve whenever you were in his presence and the only way you knew to possibly gain that was to visit the peddler that lived nearby.

Even if she was crazy at best.

She regarded you the moment you took a nervous step into her cluttered shop like you were an old friend overdue for a visit. She ushered you in with a knowing smile as she waved you in to look at her wares; her hands never halting their work as they carefully worked with a flame to boil a concussion of ever-changing, colourful, liquid.

“Your heart and mind are not acting as one.” She finally uttered, supposedly tired of the silence that fell like a blanket in the room as you carefully picked up and glanced from vial to vial. 

“I-I… w-well, I don’t, I’m not sure…?” Your stuttering response made her laugh, though not in a cruel way, as she hummed along while you explained your situation; almost as if she already knew every beat of your story. 

“Take this then” she poured the colourful concoction she had been brewing into a vial, bright sparks and a puff of smoke erupted when the last drop fell; unphased she closed it off with a small cork before handing it to you “Liquid Empathy always allow those who drink it a moment into your heart.”

She shooed you off, hands on her back and guiding you out of her shop, before you could protest; protest the dangers of said potion, the dangerous possible effects to those that drink it, and any inquiry as to how one might be able to get someone to take said drink. All of it fell on deaf ears as she smiled and waved you off.

It took a few days before you managed to find a solution; to give the blacksmith some bread and beer for all he had done, for only then could you have any hope of hiding the taste and power of the potion. And though your mind and heart were wreaked with guilt for such a deception, no matter how minor it was, you needed to quell the raging emotions that clashed and conflicted whenever in his presence - even if briefly - no matter the outcome; even if that outcome was to never again be allowed to speak with him again.

You made your way to his shop, knowing Kirishima would be there even so late at night for it was in his nature; and though it would benefit him to have a little reprieve, it benefitted you more to not have anyone else around. And ever the creature of habit, there he was; hammering away at a new piece of armor the crown had commissioned him for. You caught his eye with a tiny wave, knowing that your soft ‘hello’ could not be heard over his hammer.

“Well hey there!” He regarded you as warmly as he always did, wiping his brow as he approached you with that same smile that made you weak in the knees “What brings you here so late?”

You wanted to respond, to say the words you had practiced over and over in your head before arriving, but your tongue had turned to lead; working turning to sand in your mouth as you stumbled to even make a syllable; and after a moment, with his eyes blinking down at your expectantly - and kindly - you huffed quietly in defeat and held out the basket.

“This is for me?” Kirishima exclaimed, eyes going alight at the treat before him while you nodded your head “Thank you so much, what a sweet surprise!”

You watched as he took your wicker basket, setting it down on one of his many benches, to lift the banket that kept him from the goodies within. Exclaiming in delight the freshly baked bread and the mug of frothy ale; eagerly breaking a piece of the bread to stuff it into his mouth, quelling the raging hunger he was putting off, and lifting the mug up to his mouth the quell his ever-growing thirst.

Slowly, as the mug was raised to his lips, your self-doubt was etched and carved further into your beating heart; knots twisting and tuning more harshly within your stomach as your guilt knawed at your like the roots of a tree digging into the earth for purchase.

“N-no! Don’t!” You called out, hand darting out to pull his arm, and the mug, away from him; eyes unable to look at him, but knew he was staring at you with utter confusion. After a moment, after you knawed on your bottom lip once more, you gave him a glance “It’s a long story… but, um..”

And you told him how you felt for him; hands worrying as you picked at your nail beds, ee refusing to meet his - whether in shame, or embarrassment, or even both, you would never be sure - as you poured your heart out to him.

You didn’t think it would end with him finally silencing your ramblings with a soft and gentle kiss.

See? I knew a Touch of Empathy would work for you. Now I suggest you keep yourself away from other people, at least until the morrow, should you wish to be compelled to tell them your inner thoughts as well

[potionpeddlerpatchy]

Dearest patchy, most talented of all potion makers,

I beg of you to give content either for Viktor from Arcane or Bakugou from My Hero Academia owning a cat. Just like, a little drabble or head cannons, I just think that either man with a cat is so cute

Dear traveler, how kind it is of you to speak such sweet things over my talents and character - I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Though, I do find myself in a bit of a predicament over your request for no potion that I have can produce what you are looking for.

Though if your heart is willing, and you desire to see such a sight. Then you merely need to gaze within my crystal ball.

You took a tentative step toward the crystalline ball, brows furrowed as you kept a watchful eye on the peddler before you; unsure what to make of both her and now your current situation. The aura around you, around her, was that of mystery and did nothing to quell your nervous heart. Perhaps if you were in a market square, or literally any place where there were other people nearby, then being within the dim and odd shop wouldn’t leave the hairs on your arm stand on end.

But you made it this far, haven’t you? Made the resolve to trek through the woods, cold and damp, to find her little shop. Put on a brave face to enter it, despite the creaking door and groaning floorboards telling you otherwise. And even boldly, head held high, made your claim when the peddler regarded you, ignoring the grotesque items that adorned the shelves near her.

‘So why stop now?’ you could practically hear her voice echo in your mind as you finally took a shaky inhale to peer into the giant glass-like sphere; hoping for something sweet rather than possible horrors that may lurk out of your control.

It was all hazy at first, the images that formed before you, causing your eyes to squint and blink rapidly - as if they were the cause for such things - but one by one the colours you saw started to become firm, become real, and it now as if you were really there watching it all unfold.

The cat that you saw, an animal you were hoping to see, was nothing too spectacular. The fur was choppy and stood up and out in odd places, almost as if it was possibly matted; and the colour was that of ordinary table wood, not rich deep or light and soft, just simply brown. The marking that littered all around were in a disjointed pattern, unorganized,  and almost unappealing. It has a tooth that stuck out marring its face with a permanent, ugly, scowl as their eyes - golden in hue - were downcast; seemingly regarding everything it looked with disdain.

Just a plain, old barn cat.

And yet, it sat upon a bed that was far lusher and soft than you could even think to give it; with what looked to be the downy fur of a sheep handstitched overtop. It looked to be well-fed, with the bowl that sat nearby - currently empty - being much deeper than even the ones you would eat out of. And the thunderous purrs that old cat let out, constant and unwavering, were proof that it was more than content where it was, laying within a sunbeam.

A plain, ugly, cat yes. But one that was far more content than even the ones that lived in luxury. One that adored its home and the man who provided it. And, if your heart had any doubt, the chirp it let out when it heard the door open - one sweeter than any chime of a bell - as it ran to its owner and squashed it all down.

Especially so when its owner, the ever-stone-faced and despotic Bakugou who barely had the time of day to say hello and give a polite smile to anyone who passed him by, picked up the feline circling his feet, to place him on his shoulders with a bright smile.

You watched, on and on, in a joyous daze, as that man went about his evening. Feeding himself some dinner, setting aside scraps for his furry companion. Shuffling, gently nudging, and even grumbling out profanities as he tried to clean up with said friend tripping him almost every other step - yet not even an exasperated, frustrated, loud groan passed his lips. Though, Bakugou often chided the cat whenever he sat down to read a book by the fire, swatting its little curious paw away from the mug of tea he was trying to enjoy.

You even watched as got himself comfortable in his bed, blankets and pillows arranged in just the right way to ensure the most comfortable sleep. And, as his head touch the soft pillow, you watched him pat the bed beside him - beckoning his cat to him to join him.

“I think you saw all that you wished to see.” 

The peddler whispered, finally breaking you out of your trance as your eyes darted back up to her - almost forgetting she was even with you. The images you were so engaged in was now long gone, like a distant memory, the ball now clear and empty as when you first regarded it.

“Run along now, while the night is still young.” She smiled, shooing you away gently with a motion of her hand; watching mirthfully as you stumbled and clumsily put back on your jacket and gathered your things to leave.

“If you’re lucky,” She added with a sly wink, pausing you from leaving her doorway “and play your cards right, you may be able to see that kitty again without the help of magic.”

A kind and gentle man that hides behind a mask of callousness; truly a heart of gold indeed. I do hope you come back again, plenty of truths you may find within my crystalline ball - should your heart desire to see them.