#*silently stresses when trying to figure who to choose A H H*

[swirlwalker]

By far the hardest Sonic Channel Calander poll to ever choose

Since Sonic, Rouge and Infinite are all good choices when thinking about the fighting scenarios between them and Knuckles. But sadly can only choose one hence many many thinking, possibilities and questions as to who would get the spot for next month: -Sonic hasn't appear in this year Sonic Channel Calander Art hence would make sense to have his standoff against his very first rival. Plus would be nice to see what kind of costume he would wear, I would imagine something sporty like Muay Thai or Taekwondo (especially Muay Thai cos of the bandages around the wrists and legs, boxers, and the Mongkhon aka the headwear. **totally not biased as a thai here kdfhkj** ) -Would imagine Rouge in a stylish costume about to commit a heist at the museum in the middle of the night and Knuckles as a night guard has to catch her whilst she holds the stolen item. But for real would be nice to see the interaction between her and Knuckles in the official art!

-INFINITE THIS DUDE. HMMMMMMMMMMMMMM Can only imagine Knuckles as Sir Gaiwan and Infinite as the upcoming Warlock for SFSB. But if they need of a new costume all together then, perhaps a new look for Sir Gaiwan, kinda like Dragon Slayer Lancelot i guess? For now though I am very curious and anticipated to see where this is going for next month

[bat3s]

I don't know if you have limits and if you don't want to do these it's completely fine, just wanted to ask if you could do a s/o with multiple additions like coffe/energy drink, cigarettes/weed and self harm, cutting/burning. I have these additions and I was curious how they would react. You can choose the killers

TW:s/h

Slashers x gn s/o with addictions (Michael Myers, Billy Loomis, Norman Bates, Jason Voorhees, Brahms Heelshire, Thomas Hewitt)

Sorry this took so long! I hope you enjoy!!

Michael Myers

He’s already aware of your addictions since he basically stalks you

He’s familiar with not only substance based addictions but also self harm because he had seen other patients at Smith’s grove who struggled with addictions

His immediate reaction is to clear the house of anything you could really hurt yourself with

He knows he can’t just make you stop, he understands that it’s much more complicated than that

If you talk to him about it, maybe asking for comfort when you get urges he’ll begrudgingly agree to help

He knows this is important, he knows you’re important to him so he wants to make sure you’re okay

Whenever you get the urge to smoke/cut/burn etc. he’ll walk up behind you and press himself against you to try and distract you

Not exactly hugging but it’s the thought that counts

Billy Loomis

The first thing he noticed was the smoking/energy drinks

They were pretty apparent because those were things you did in front of him, he noticed how often you seemed to do it and how you seemed dependent on these things to get you through the day

He notices the self harm a bit later

Might sneak into your room when you’re asleep and noticed the cuts/burns on your arm where your clothes had been brushed up in bed

He kind of gets mad, not really though, he’s upset and frustrated but he doesn’t know how to express that

Wakes you up right away and asks you about it

Gets really pushy up until you start crying/shout back at him

After that he backs off a bit and tries to figure things out

He wants to help you he just has no idea how

What he ends up doing is basically just trying to distract you, if he noticed that you seemed bothered he would drag you onto the couch to watch some movies (your choice!) 

Reacts fairly poor in the case of a relapse

He’ll back off for a bit just so he doesn’t do anything particularly upsetting

Tries to help by distracting you mostly

He'll try to take you out more, you'd normally stay in with him since that's his preference but he'll do whatever he can to help you work through things

He does still do regular movie nights though, if not more frequently

Lets you pick the movies :0

Norman Bates

He discourages your use of caffeine

considering the time, smoking is a fairly common habit

Though he does notice that you're smoking a lot

He tries to gently encourage you to be healthier

He'll encourage you to sleep earlier and more often to dissuade your caffeine use

He'll also try to let you relax more, he thinks that removing stress might help you cut back on smoking

He notices the self-harm slowly

He sees all the little things

You going to the bathroom for long periods of time and not running the shower

You wearing long sleeves/pants in hot weather

The amount of first aid supplies being used

How you'd flinch when he touched or brushed certain parts of your body

He tried to deny it for a while, he didn't want to believe you'd hurt yourself

He decides to ask you about it one day though

He can't stand the though of you hurting while he stands by and does nothing

He's very delicate with how he phrases his question, but he asks if he can see your arms/legs

If you oblige he very carefully rolls up the clothing and gently cradles the area

He's silent for a moment before he speaks

He asks if he did something/has neglected something which prompted you to do this

Encourages you to seek him out when you feel the urge to self harm

Very patient and a great listener as you tell him about your struggles and how you've been feeling

He encourages you to form healthier replacement habits like gardening/baking/art

Will drop everything to comfort you

Will abandon conversations with customers to make you feel better

Will always be willing to help you clean any injuries

He's very teary eyed the whole time but he remains calm and reassuring the whole time

Whenever he gets the chance he'll hold your hands in his and press your foreheads together and he'll just whisper how much he loves you and how proud he is of you

Jason Voorhees

Jason does not really tolerate any smoking/drinking

So I won't be writing about that

He doesn't notice any of the signs of s/h

He has never really seen or heard of anyone doing that sort of thing before so it doesn't even occur to him

He finds out on a really hot day

You're clearly suffering in the heat but insist on wearing long sleeves/pants

He doesn't want you passing out from the heat so he tries to get you to change clothes or at the very least roll up your sleeves/pants

He gets fed up and just does it for you (he's to strong so there's really nothing you can do to stop him)

When he sees the marks he just freezes

He assumes someone else is hurting you and that you were hiding it

Panics and carries you indoors to give you first aid

As you explain to him that you were hurting yourself on purpose he just looks confused

He hugs you and holds you really close (still broiling hot but he's upset okay)

Won't really leave you alone after this

Always checking you for injuries

Won't let you near anything potentially dangerous

If you express that you want to harm yourself he'll take you out on a walk to try and distract you

Brahms Heelshire

Brahms doesn't like it when you go outside for smoke breaks often

So your only options are to smoke inside/out a window or to quit altogether

Brahms will insist on the latter

He doesn't like the smell or taste and will throw a fit when you smell like tobacco

He will throw a fit about the caffeine as well

He thinks energy drinks and coffee are disgusting and doesn't want them in the house

Even the smell of coffee will upset him

If he finds any he'll steal it and throw it out

He's in the walls so you're not really sure where he can see/go so there's no where private to go

He'll witness you harming well before he reveals himself

(Before revealing himself) He'll take away any blades/lighters so you can't use them

(After revealing himself) He won't throw fits about you harming

But he does get very sad

He doesn't like the idea of you hurting yourself but he's even more upset that he can't help you

He'll hold you very close to him and whisper little praises and reassurances when you tell him you're having the urge to hurt yourself

Thomas Hewitt

It's quite unlikely that the Hewitts have easy access to coffee let alone energy drinks

And it's unlikely they'd let you leave often enough to get large amounts of them, that's assuming you can even afford that given your new situation

So you're forced to quit cold turkey

If you explain it to Thomas, he's very sympathetic and tries his best to sooth your withdrawal symptoms

When it comes to self harm, Thomas has personal experience in that area

He notices you wearing long clothes in hot Texas weather and catches on pretty quickly

He knocks on the door to the bathroom one day when you're in the middle of harming and asks if he can come in

If you panic and insist you're fine he'll calmly assure you that he already knows and he just wants to help

You let him in and he very slowly steps in and slowly reaches towards the area, looking down at you to make sure you're okay with him checking

He'll clean your wounds in silence and then will take you into your bedroom and just hold you in his lap

He's silent but he's gently rubbing his hands over any unmarked areas to sooth you

He'll listen very closely if you want to talk

He tells you that while he'd like you to stop, he understands it's not that easy and that he just wants you to be safe

He wants you to come to him when you feel any urges

Or after you've already harmed, that way he can disinfect it and comfort you

He won't tell anyone else, he's sure they'd react poorly (even if Luda May cared, she wouldn't really understand)

He tends to be very shy about his own scars and is apprehensive to let you touch or even see them

But now he lets you in hopes that you won't feel alone

He's not good with words, so he hopes this shows you how much he cares and that he understands how you're feeling

(If you let him) He will gently pet the areas around the injuries

He'll trace the scars and press gentle kisses on them

I'm so soft for him

[transfemjimmysolidarity]

Chapter Two of JTTOU (Just The Two Of Us) woo :D

Etho’s POV this time :) (for future reference, chapters that are odd numbers- eg chapter one- are BDubs’ POV, and chapters that are even numbers are Etho’s POV)

——

Etho was reading in his bedroom when he heard the unwelcome sound of knocking on his door. After looking around and coming to the conclusion that there was nowhere he could hide (and pretend he wasn't there), the white haired prince sighed, sitting up and closing his book over. "Come in!" He called, trying to sound like he hadn't been actively avoiding talking to whoever it was.

The door opened to reveal the even more unwelcome sight of a woman with long white/gray hair, dark gray eyes, an overly extravagant red satin dress with ruby embroidery and an excessively shiny golden crown with circles of amber and ruby embedded in it. His mother, the queen of Xobrazia.

"You shouldn't spend so much time reading, you know, there are much better hobbies." The woman commented.

Etho nodded, gritting his teeth slightly. "I'm aware that's what you think, Mother, but I find it quite enjoyable." He said, adjusting the mask that covered his mouth and nose.

"Still." She glanced around with a disdainful expression.

"Why are you here, Mother?" Etho interrupted her with a yawn. "You hardly ever make the time to actually show your face."

"About that... I've been noticing that you haven't been being incredibly productive with the way you use your time, and I figured I could get someone- a servant- to assist you. General Symmetry's brigade recently discovered and captured a group of those... crossbreeds." Hybrids. The prince corrected her silently. "One of General Symmetry's new squires, a boy called Scar, made a very valid point- that it would make more sense to put some of them to work rather than killing them all. I was thinking that one of them could be a servant of sorts to help you be more productive."

"Like... an assistant?" 'Servant' implies that they're getting paid, Mother, Etho thought with an internal eye roll.

"Servant. They could take care of simple tasks that might take up your time- like managing letters you receive from citizens, and reporting back to me on how you make use of your newly gained free time- so that you can be more productive. A future king shouldn't spend all day in his room reading and drawing." The queen added with a somewhat disappointed expression.

"So... an assistant." Etho repeated wryly, ignoring the last part of what his mother had said.

"Servant." His mother repeated stubbornly, smiling icily. "I have a list of some of the more agreeable ... cross-breeds that were captured. Namely, the ones that didn't try to attack any of our knights. I'll be generous- you may choose which one will be your servant." She handed him a scroll with hastily written notes that Etho quickly recognised as General Symmetry's (or False Symmetry, if he was using her first name) handwriting. He scanned the list quietly.

•Blue Slimecian male, 17 years of age

•Floran hybrid male, 16 years of age

•Vampire male, 18 years of age

•Satyr female, 18 years of age

•Goat/sheep hybrid (unsure) male, around 19 years of age

•Iron golem hybrid male, 18 years of age

•Dog hybrid, 17 years of age

Etho frowned slightly. Jeez, how many were there? That's like... an alarming amount of hybrids, compared to the amount that have been found over the last few years. He paused, shivering slightly under his mother's impatient gaze. "Uh... the second one?" Florans are the plant ones, right? Like- they control plants?

"Of course. I'll send Stress up with him later." The woman said, referring to Etho's friend Stress, a brunette who nearly always had flowers in her hair who worked as a maid in the palace. "Hopefully you'll be more... productive with your time now." His mother added, looking the prince up and down with an unimpressed expression that made the white haired boy want to punch her in the mouth. "Well, that's all. I'll be going now."

Etho waved halfheartedly as the queen left, getting up to close the door behind her before lying back on his bed and opening the book again.

——

Etho glanced up as the door opened, brightening slightly as Stress walked in. "Oh- Stress! Hi!"

She smiled slightly. "Prince Etho."

"You don't need to be formal, Stress, my mother isn't here." The white haired boy said with a laugh.

"I was just being formal in front of our... guest. Your mother told me to bring him down here. He's your new assistant." Etho smiled slightly under his mask at the term Stress used, and he opened his mouth to speak before stopping and staring as a boy with an incredibly annoyed expression followed her into the room.

The Floran hybrid was a bit shorter than both Stress and Etho, and he had curly brown hair, tanned skin and freckles scattered across his face. He had (rather pretty) heterochromic brown and green eyes, and a small flower tucked behind his ear. The boy also had an odd, dark green tattoo-like pattern on his neck that reminded Etho of criss-crossing flowers and vines.

"Oh. Uh... it's... nice to meet you." Etho said quietly, and the boy rolled his eyes, muttering something under his breath. "My name is Prince Etho. But you can just call me Etho, no need for the formalities-" The prince added hastily as the brunette shot him a skeptical look. Etho watched as Stress quietly left the room before looking back at the person stood in front of him. "What's your name?"

The boy with heterochromic eyes glared at him, meeting Etho's gaze for the first time. "Why do you care? I'm just a 'servant', right?" He said mockingly. Wow, even if he's mocking me, his voice is- cute- cool. Cool, not cute.

"Well, I was just being nice." Etho pointed out.

"Humans? Being nice? Yeah, no, doesn't sound that accurate." The Floran hybrid snapped. I can't even say he's wrong- one of our brigades did just basically destroy his entire village.

"I mean, I'd like to think that I'm different from other humans." Etho said slowly, frowning slightly. "Come on, just tell me your name- I really want to know now."

The other boy paused. "Not that it's any of your business, but... my name is BDubs."

Woo, chapter two :D

If I had a nickel for every time I made a main character's parent a terrible person, I'd have three nickels (I think).

Which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it happened thrice.

Also yes, Etho’s a human :)

[the-weirdos-mind]

League of Villains X Teen! Reader: You’re Gonna Go Far, Kid

Songfic of the song with the same name by The Offspring. Here’s the reader’s quirk: 

 Quirk- Manipulation

Type- Emitter

How it works- Similar to Aizawa’s and Nighteye’s quirks you have to look someone in the eye to get them under control. They’re unaware that you’re controlling them but still aware of their senses. When you have someone under control you can do whatever you want with them until you either look away from that person (it doesn’t always have to be eye contact), blink, or release them. Whenever someone is under your spell, it’s like being trapped in a room with one-way glass. They are aware of what’s going on but, can’t get help. 

Drawbacks- If you use the power for more than an hour you’ll get a headache. If you push yourself you’ll get a migraine. You can choose when to activate it and for how long but the time still adds to an hour no matter how many times you activate it in the day.

Trigger warnings: Blood and use of violence, if I’m missing anything then let me know so I can correct it 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Show me how to lie You're getting better all the time And turning all against the one Is an art that's hard to teach

    You followed Giran down the hallway to an unknown place. You had the hood of you (F/C) on to hide your (H/L) (H/C) hair with your eyes on the ground. You watched as foot after foot in (F/C) shoes put pressure on the dirty ground. You mentally sighed as you reflect your life choices. You didn’t want to live this life but everyone around you saw your quirk as one thing; villainous. You got tired of the words and became what they wanted you be. You realized that heroes are worthless and they didn’t care that a young (boy/girl/person) was heading down a dark path. You glanced up to see the man opening the door. You immediately looked down and followed him in the room.

     Side glancing at the room you noticed it was a bar. There was a purple cloud like man with yellow eyes in a suit and a metal brace around his neck. He was polishing a glass behind the bar. On a red stool was another man holding a glass of alcohol. He had his pinky raised away from the glass though and you silently raised an eyebrow. Is this because of his quirk or is he British? His shaggy blue hair was covering most of his face but when he turned to face the two, you saw a pale hand covering his face and his red eyes glaring at you. You glanced down at the floor. Not yet.

    “You seriously brought a child?” He asked setting the glass cup down. “You do know that this is for mature adults? And (she/he/they) can’t stare at me in the eyes? How rude.” His voice was raspy and you concluded he was holding the glass like that was because of his quirk.

  “Shigaraki, this is (Y/N), I brought (him/her/them) cause (he/she/they) need some training with (his/her/their) quirk.” Giran said and took a drag from his cigarette. He exhaled and a smoke cloud came in the room. “(He/She/They) is getting better at it but, (he/she/they) still needs some help.”

    You rolled your eyes at him. “At least I don’t treat kids like they’re nothing.” You mumbled still bitter about Shigaraki’s comment.

     “What was that?” The blue haired man asked, dangerously.

     “So, you’re deaf huh? I thought an excellent leader would treat a new recruit with respect no matter the age they are.”

Another clever word Sets off an unsuspecting herd And as you get back into line A mob jumps to their feet

    “Shut up.” Shigaraki muttered and scratched his neck. He was stressed about the trouble this kid was causing. Sure he and Dabi didn’t get along but he liked being in control. “(He/She/They) is mature for (his/her/their) age.” Giran said. “Maybe with (him/her/them) as leader it won’t be bad.” He added. He knew what you were doing. If you get him mad enough to get him to look at you in the eye then you can show off your quirk. You did keep your mouth shut as the man stood up and walked over to you. You looked at him in the eye and a (F/C) hue came to your (E/C) eyes. His eyes begin to fog up a little, not enough to appear blind but enough to look suspicious.

Now dance, ****er, dance Man, he never had a chance And no one even knew It was really only you

     Shigaraki barely saw the change of your eye color. He was so surprised to started dancing. His feet moved in a fast pace in place. “What the ****!?!” He yelled, only in his mind. Dabi started laughing again. The scarred man leaned over clutching his stomach. He’s laughing so hard he might start crying, or blood will fall from his destroyed tear ducts, if he’s not careful. After a few minutes of dancing you blinked to end the curse on him. They didn’t know that you caused it to happen. Giran smirked and patted you on the head. “What the h***?” The man asked looking around, wondering what just happened.

    “That is (his/her/their) quirk at work.” He man said before the other could get angry. “With a power like (hers/his/theirs) would be useful for heist situations and causing diversions wouldn’t it?”

    “What is (his/her/theirs) quirk?” The wisp man asked.

    “Manipulation.” You said. “Whenever I look at someone in the eyes it activates my power. I can hold control of them for at least an hour before I get a headache. Best part is no one knows that they’re under my grasp.” You said.

    “I’ll admit that I’m impressed.” Shigaraki said. “Welcome I guess.”

    Giran smiled. “You won’t be disappointed.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And now you steal away Take him out today

   After a few weeks of joining the League you’re on your first solo mission. Before this one you were mainly paired with a blonde haired girl named Toga. She was pretty nice when she wasn’t obsessing over blood or trying to stab you. Other times you were paired with a man named Twice. He would say two different things and it would give you mixed feelings about a job well done.

    You walked through the area of the city to a hero agency. Your job is to find maps of the inside and steal them. Shigaraki didn’t care if they were on paper or not all he cared about was getting them, It’s pretty simple to do but considering this is you, you had a knife and a handheld gun just in case if things went south. So far it was going well. You got a security guard under control and using him you were able to get a computer with the building’s layout on it. Pulling out a flash drive that Compress had given you, you stuck it in the computer and start downloading. Unfortunately, you looked away from the guard and he glared at you.

    “I don’t know your plan here kid, but it’s best if you leave now.” He said. He did try to alert someone but it was useless, he was trapped in his mind until you looked away. You looked at him and put your hand in your pocket with the knife.

    “I don’t think so.” You said. Before he could call for backup you pulled the knife out and threw it at his chest. He gasped at the impact of the knife and slumped to the floor. Blood was falling from the wound fast, staining his shirt and forming a puddle. Thankfully there was a ding as the data had finished uploading to the flash drive. You walked over to the computer and pulled it out. You smirked as you pocketed it and pulled the knife out from the guard. You left the building leaving behind a guard slowly bleeding to death.

Nice work you did You're gonna go far, kid

    You walked back into the hideout and put the flash drive on the bar next to Shigaraki. He nodded at you when he saw it. “Good job. A win for us.” He said and carefully pocketed the piece of tech.

    “And in an hour too.” Spinner said.

    “That’s really impressive!” Twice said. “It’s not that impressive.”

    You feel a hand clamp on your head and ruffle your hair. “Not bad, kid.” Dabi said. He could tell you’re gonna go far in the villain industry.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

With a thousand lies And a good disguise Hit 'em right between the eyes Hit 'em right between the eyes

   You had gotten in the school with one of the best lies you have, your parents went there. It wasn’t U.A. but it’s also training people for the hero industry. The plan was to get the best marks in the school and transfer to U.A. as the highest in your class. Giran came into play for making fake documents that pass off as real.

    The one on one fight that took place with some kid you didn’t even bother to know was annoying. His quirk was something water related and you almost drowned a couple of times. You finally looked at him in the eye and ordered him to stop. You ran up to him and punched his face, in the between the eyes a couple of times. The first one stun him while the other knocked him out.

When you walk away Nothing more to say See the lightning in your eyes See 'em running for their lives

   You panted and wiped the sweat away from your forehead. You walked away from the ring where the training took place and looked at everyone else. They looked away from you in fear and parted like a body of water. You swore you saw someone running for their life. You smirked to yourself and took your seat on the bleachers. Pride danced in your eyes like lightning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Slowly out of line And drifting closer in your sights So play it out I'm wide awake It's a scene about me

  The first thing the infamous Class 1-A noticed about you is how secretive you were. You shared nothing about yourself other than your name and quirk. They noticed that you did some… shady things to put it mildly. Some noticed you snuck out of the dorms at night. Idia, Miydoriya, Bakugo and Todoroki had followed you to an alleyway and heard you talking to some shadowy figure there. Both spoke in soft whispers that they couldn’t tell who you were talking to and whether or not they were male or female. Other than that occurrence, they didn’t get anything else.

   About a week later, the League attacked UA. You had managed to get them in through your student ID and gave them full access to the school, by a really good copy of the little plastic card. Five minutes prior to the attack, you had excused yourself from math, who needs it anyways, and went to the bathroom. While the lockdown was going on, you met with Toga in the halls. The plan was to get to All Might and kill him, the typical plan made by the man child of a leader you have. You both heard footsteps running towards you and saw it was the class president, Iida. “(L/N), get away from her!” He yelled, doing his hand chop thing. You smirked and took out the dagger the blonde handed you. “No, I don’t think I will.” You responded. Time to shine.

There's something in your way                                                                       And now someone is gonna pay And if you can't get what you want,                                                              Well, it's all because of me

    He stood there, shell shocked at the sight before him. His classmate was a villain? You couldn’t use your quirk yet, anyways. You decided to let the scene play out. You let a dark chuckle seeing his face. “All my life I’ve been told that I was best suited for a villain. You know, you could’ve used the time you knew me to get to know me but, everyone treated me the same as before! It’s too bad that things had to end like this. Wait, no it’s not that bad. You and your class are gonna pay!” You yelled. You lunged at him and he dodged as he snapped out of his shocked state.

    “(Y/N), it doesn’t have to be this way!” He said and continued to dodge the blade. He was still surprised and didn’t attempt to fight back because he couldn’t believe the suspicions about you were true. You growled in frustration. “It’s too late for me anyways. You can’t turn me to the light.” You said and looked at him in the eyes and yours started glowing (F/C). He almost let out a gasp but it didn’t leave his body as his eyes fogged up a little.

Now dance, ****er, dance, man, I never had a chance And no one even knew, it was really only you And now you'll lead the way

   You smiled as the class representative had fallen for your trick. “Now, we’re going back to the class, and you’re going to act like everything is alright.” You ordered.

   He nodded. “Yes, (Sir/Ma’am/Other).” He said, voice coming out robotically. He set off to find his class and you followed him, due to your power. The irony of the situation was almost amusing to you. Almost. The head of the class, now a puppet. A puppet that can dance to whatever twisted moves that you have set for it.

Show the light of day Nice work you did You're gonna go far, kid Trust deceived

    You followed him down the twisting paths of the hallways to the rest of the class. Your gaze fixed on the back of his head. You knew Toga was going to inform everyone else that everything was according to plan. Finally, the two of you reached the hiding area where everyone else was. “Thank goodness you found, (him/her/them!)” You heard Izuku said. Then he noticed that something was off about his classmates. You were refusing to look at anybody else than the boy in front of you and Iida’s looked dazed. Like he was… under someone’s control.

    The greenette’s eyes widened. His classmate was… no. He had his suspicions but the truth is hard to handle. Before he could say anything, Iida gave him a swift kick in the face.

With a thousand lies and a good disguise Hit 'em right between the eyes Hit 'em right between the eyes

    They stood there in surprise and shock. A blanket of fear had covered them, making them stand there like statues. The only sounds were the groans of Miydoriya and the thud of his body hitting the ground. “I-Iida.” Ochaco stuttered in fear. No one had expected the class president to attack their classmate outside of training. The blue haired boy then hit the nearest person, Mineta, giving him a punch to the cheek. No one really reacted to that. In all honesty, the grape had it coming.

When you walk away, nothing more to say See the lightning in your eyes See 'em running for their lives

     While they were distracted, you used the opportunity to leave. It didn’t matter if Iida was going to spill the secret you kept from them. That s*** was already out. You smirked to yourself knowing which side of the street you belong in.

Now dance, ****er, dance, he never had a chance And no one even knew, it was really only you So dance, ****er, dance, I never had a chance It was really only you

    The mission went out as planned. It was only a ploy to strike fear in the hearts of citizens. After all, an attack with no causalities is far worse with ones that do. You now sat at the bar, a bottle of water in your hand. You may be a criminal but the age of drinking consent is something that you can’t argue with.  No matter how hard you tried. The news was on talking about the event. Everyone was able to get away without anyone being caught. Call it luck or whatever but, you’re thankful that they did. The anchorwoman was talking about how a student was involved with the League and helped out. A picture of your face appeared on the screen and you smirked. It wasn’t a school photo but a mugshot from a previous capture. One you managed to get away from. No one even suspected you, or so you think, but regardless it’s wonderful to see.

With a thousand lies and a good disguise Hit 'em right between the eyes Hit 'em right between the eyes

    You couldn’t help but chuckled remembering the looks on each of their faces. What they thought was a classmate was really playing a part. A perfect disguise if you asked yourself. You have the innocent looking (boy/girl/person) appearance and if anyone who didn’t know you found out about your job. It would’ve made you laugh as not everything is as it seems.

    Your fists tingled as they remembered the feeling of their face contacting your skin. You placed the hand that held the plastic bottle on top of the other’s knuckles. The feeling is something you’re going to remember for a long time.

When you walk away, nothing more to say See the lightning in your eyes See 'em running for their lives

  A pair of footsteps came walking in and you dropped your hands to your lap. You see Shigaraki walking into the bar holding a folder, with a finger away from it as always. You know it could only mean one thing. “Another mission?” You asked, voicing your thoughts. The boss nodded and handed it to you.

     “Go over it and be ready for when the time comes. You did good on your last mission, keep up the good work. You’re a valuable character.” He said before walking away. You weren’t sure if the last sentence was a praise or another video game term but regardless you nodded.

     “Will do.” You said and opened it up, wondering what will be to cause more fear in the people. And more pride in yourself. Each success makes you happy.

Clever alibis, Lord of the Flies Hit 'em right between the eyes Hit 'em right between the eyes

   You almost busted out laughing seeing  which role you were supposed to play. An innocent citizen who loves all the hero crap. You won’t be alone this time, having Toga to accompany you on this one. You felt excited for the mission. It would mean more people will realize what idiots heroes truly are. The truth will knock them down from the clouds.

When you walk away, nothing more to say See the lightning in your eyes See 'em running for their lives

   But right now, it’s time for a nap. The last mission tired you out. You took the folder with you and walked to your room. All that matters right now is a bed, a blanket, and wonderful dreams of a world where people run in fear from you.

[safertokiss]

Through a Different Lens

A/N: Well, well, well. Lookie what we have here. New content wowza. I’d say I’m surprised it’s been a while, but I simply am not. Luckily another fic swap has arrived to get my creative juices flowing once again. The gods have gifted me with another perfect opportunity to write sub spence because I was given @writing-in-april as my person yet again. Hooray! Anyways I hope you enjoy and thanks all you cool cats and kittens for the support (we almost to 1000 yeet skrrt). Also, it just happens to be my birthday today so as a gift to myself I thought about subby Spencer for a while.

Pairing: SPENCER x READER

Category: SMUT and can’t forget that fluff

Word Count: 3.2k

ENJOY:)

~~~

It all started completely by accident.

There was no possible way that she would’ve been able to predict just how much they would affect the poor kid. 

She could remember, clear as day, the first time she was forced to wear her glasses to the bureau due to her ongoing frustrations with the torture devices that were also referred to as contacts. There were only so many headaches and eye-waterings that she could take before the insecurity of wearing her frames to work shriveled below the point of caring anymore. 

But none of those previous insecurities held a flame to the amount of confusion she felt when she entered the bullpen and waltzed over to Spencer’s desk to say good morning with a shy smile adorning her face. Y/n hadn’t even been able to get a complete sentence out before the young doctor had turned to her and froze, his mouth hanging open like a fish, his eyes widening to the size of dinner plates, the harsh red blush she had seen before, just maybe not to this extent, engulfing his boyish features. 

Before she could even attempt to ask him what she had done to warrant such a response, he was spouting out a meager, “H-hey Y/n” whilst simultaneously scurrying off in the direction of the nearest bathroom.

Completely and utterly perplexed over what had happened, she had shrugged it off and made her way back to her desk, silently mulling over the interaction periodically throughout the rest of the day. 

It was a couple of the same type of interactions later that Y/n began to take notice of what was actually happening with the boy genius. The stiff and unnatural posture. The stuttering, granted that wasn’t something new, just much more frequent and severe. The audible heartbeat always accompanied by rosy cheeks and goosebumps. 

Spencer Reid was fucking turned on by the glasses.

And he didn’t even try to hide it. Or maybe he did and was just really, really bad at doing so.

Either way, Y/n quickly discovered just how much fun it was getting these reactions to pour out of the kid...so of course she kept wearing the glasses even after she was able to wear contacts again. He didn’t need to know that. 

It was so fucking easy too. 

She would just be sitting at her desk, occupied by some particularly troubling pages of a case file that makes her have to readjust her frames out of stress, when she’d hear a high pitched squeak across the bullpen, followed by the pattering of frantic footsteps she had familiarized herself with in former few weeks. 

While she felt some kind of guilt for putting him through this, it was nowhere near enough to overtake the genuine excitement and gratification that came with knowing she could have such an effect on the adorable doctor.

Of course she found him attractive...how could she not with his perfectly sculpted cheekbones and nerdy slicked back hair. Ultimately Y/n could understand his apparent infatuation with her wearing glasses as she had caught herself, on more than a couple occasions, openly ogling his own specs. 

Maybe they were both weirdos...the whole situation was almost as strange as the Converse kink that she secretly harbored for years. Although her intuition was quick to suggest that, just maybe, both of her unique infatuations stemmed from the same noodle-shaped source.

Perhaps her favorite reaction of his, though, came about during the little office birthday party that the entire team had thrown for him.

He looked so adorable in the gigantic birthday cake hat they had bestowed upon him, Y/n could hardly contain her giggles at the giddy smile adorning his face. She watched on in amusement as Spencer tried desperately to get the candles on his cake to extinguish, to no avail, at least until someone felt bad watching his struggles and decided to give him a hand.

“They’re trick candles Spence, they’re gonna come back on every time.”, JJ chuckled, subtly smirking at Morgan who was also enjoying Spencer’s ongoing struggles. 

A couple “happy birthdays” later and the rest of the team slowly began to disperse, leaving just Y/n and him alone in their own little space. He must’ve noticed this too because the blush that had already been present throughout the celebration beforehand seemed to deepen even further as he visibly swallowed down his nerves.

Slowly stalking towards the rouge kissed boy, she dragged a couple of her fingers across the surface of the desk, noting the way his eyes briefly flicked down to follow the movement before hesitantly returning his gaze to match her own. 

She also noted the way his knuckles were basically turning white from the amount of pressure he was using to grab the sides of the chair.

“You have a good birthday, Spence?”, Y/n drawled with a teasing smile, now standing directly before the trembling young man.

Seeming to snap out of whatever sort of trance he had been in, he hastily cleared out his throat before responding with a bit of trepidation. “Hmm...yeah-yes uh yes it was v-very good, than-thank you.”

She couldn’t even attempt to conceal the smirk that had made its way to her lips listening to the genius stutter through his words. Such a nervous, nervous boy. So adorable. So fucking hot. 

“Well that makes me happy. I’m glad you enjoyed yourself pretty boy.”, she paused her thoughts soaking in the little hitches in his breath surely from how close she was standing near him and the added nickname. Deciding to play a little bit dirty, she leaned over directly into his line of sight to reach for the cake set before him.

 “Now how about I take this away and cut it up for all of us to eat? Hmmm?”

His eyes darted immediately to the cleavage that was so graciously presented to him as she bent over to pick up the dessert, a sharp little gasp escaping his pretty, pink lips as his pupils dilated carelessly. 

Y/n inwardly smirked at his reaction and began walking towards the kitchenette, but only made it about three or four steps before being interrupted. 

“Did you know that in some instances birthday candles are safe for wax play?”, he exclaimed before seemingly realizing what had just escaped his lips, his hands flying up to cover his traitorous mouth. 

Bewildered, in the best of ways, by what had just been said, she slowly swiveled back around, facing him once again, before placing the cake on the desk beside her. 

“What was that Spencer?”, she grinned at the petrified man who hadn’t made a single noise since his unexpected declaration. The poor thing looked like a caged in animal with nowhere to escape. Perfect.

“N-nothing! I m-mean obviously it was um s-something, but j-just uh just forget what I s-said.”, he quickly explained while frantically shaking his hands as if he was hoping he could simply wipe your memory of the last minute or two away permanently.

“No, no please go on.”, she teased. “Now I’m intrigued. What did you mean by ‘in some instances’ Spence?”

She wasn’t expecting the look of confusion, however brief it was, that peeked its way through the overwhelming embarrassment that had been showcased on his face, as if he truly couldn’t fathom that someone was actually asking him to go into more detail about a topic. 

Still didn’t change the fact that he was completely mortified.

Clearing his throat, he hesitantly lifted his gaze back to Y/n’s, seemingly debating with himself over whether he could articulate the words to come out or not. 

“Um...well..usually many p-people who choose to e-engage in such act-activities will use specific types of c-candles that are uh more designed especially for pl-play.”, he paused and she drank up the way his Adam's apple bobbed along his throat. “Uh… basically depending on the t-type of candle that one u-uses, the amount of pain or um d-discomfort differs. B-birthday candles tend to b-be on the more painful side so only the couples who are in-into that kind of thing would ever really utilize t-them.”, he finished abruptly, his leg bouncing rapidly in her line of vision.

She still couldn’t really believe she had actually gotten him to say anything at all, nevermind an in depth analysis on wax play. In a weird way she was proud of him. Really proud. Sometime amidst her thoughts, she’d found herself standing directly behind his sitting figure, her hands resting on either side of him against the table, the goosebumps visible on his skin from the implications of the position they were currently in.

“That’s really intriguing Spencer. I’d love to find out someday just why it is you know so much about the subject, but I don’t want to make you go into cardiac rest anytime soon.”, she remarked, giggling at the shy smile that made its way to his mouth.

She didn’t even register reaching out to lightly touch his lips until she heard his sharp intake of breath. Until he turned his head so they were mere centimeters apart. Until she watched his puppy eyes dart between her lips and your frame covered gaze. Until the space between them seemed to be lessening with every sec-

“Hey pretty boy! Where’s my cake?”

Y/n grudgingly pulled back at the interruption, watching in amusement as Spencer’s body instinctively leaned forward as if his lips hadn’t gotten the memo and were still searching for hers. “It’s coming right up you lazy ass!” she yelled back with a grin on her face.

She looked back to the boy sitting before her and was almost mesmerized by the dazed look present on his face, the blush slowly retreating as he came back to his surroundings. She could tell there were words that he wanted to say, but they just didn’t seem to be forming fast enough to actually come out. Deciding to put their little moment on hold before he passed out, she walked back over to the neglected dessert and started heading towards the break room again.

“I’ll make sure to save you the biggest piece, Spence.”,she threw over her shoulder, chuckling at the bewildered look still that was still present on his face.

~~~

The day was a big success in her opinion. 

Spencer looked even more like a child than usual with the big shit eating grin that remained throughout the celebration and the bulky hat that he refused to take off. She could never understand how someone could have such an affinity for sugar as she watched him devour the huge slice of cake she had carved up for him.

But hours later, it was just her and Spencer left in the building. 

And she was not about to let that go to waste.

Y/n could see him from where she stood at the entrance to the kitchenette. She could see the way he slouched over his desk with his legs curled underneath him, criss cross applesauce, as he scribbled down whatever case file he was working on. She admired his determined work ethic, that’s for sure.

But now was simply not the time to work.

Spencer immediately froze as soon as her body situated itself to be leaning against his desk, painfully aware of her gaze on his tense form. 

“H-hey Y/n.”, he nervously murmured, the stutter once again making her giddy.

“Hey yourself doc. Wanna tell me why it is you’re still here working at such a late hour? Doesn’t the elusive Spencer Reid have better things to be entertaining himself with?”, she drawled, her piercing gaze making the poor kid squirm before her eyes.

“Oh um no...n-not really. I actually don’t mind working late. It’s k-kind of therapeutic in a way. But um...I’m happy t-that you’re here w-with me.”, he whispered the last part as if he was scared you wouldn’t appreciate his gratitude.

But she appreciated it more than he knew.

Noticing the little pencil holder situated amongst the file stacks on his desk, an idea popped into her mind that she just couldn’t shake, prompting her to pick it up and begin fiddling with it.

“Oh is that so pretty boy? Does my presence satisfy you?” Before he could even attempt an answer she “accidently” dropped the holder on the ground, the array of pens and pencils dispersing among the floor. “Oops my bad.”

Spencer immediately scrambled out of his seat and onto the floor to start collecting the colorful writing utensils, the perfect distraction needed for Y/n to situate herself on his desk with her legs spread open directly in front of his face. 

“D-don’t worry abou-”, his sentence cut off as he looked up and was met with the tantalizing sight of her white lace panties already damp with her excitement. She swore he could die happy with the way his eyes widened and cheeks flushed. She couldn’t help but chuckle lightly.

“See something you like baby?” Unable to even form words, the young doctor slowly nodded his head, eyes still locked on the obvious wet spot between her open legs.

“C-can I..can I um…”

“Use your words baby boy. Can you what?”, she spoke clearly, grasping his chin so he’d look her in the eyes.

“C-can I taste you?” She couldn't get over the desperate way he spoke as if he’d die of thirst if he didn’t get a drink from her.

“Of course you can sweet b-” Not even letting the words leave her mouth, his hands were eagerly pulling her panties down and off her legs, his lips instantly connecting with the heated flesh at the apex of her thighs. She swore his tongue and lips were enchanted with the way he was able to effortlessly maneuver his way around, easily picking up on what she loved. 

“Oh Spencer you’re such a good boy.” she couldn’t resist  threading her fingers through his silky hair and tugging slightly, an action she assumed he enjoyed based on the muffled whine she heard from between her thighs. 

It hadn’t even been more than a few minutes before she found herself already on the verge of letting go. No guy had ever been able to make her feel this good and just electric until now. He was quickly ruining her for anyone else in the future. She did not mind in the slightest.

“Baby I really wanna feel you inside me. Is that something you want sweetheart?”

He reluctantly pulled back after a few more kitten licks to her clit, wide eyes finding hers and whimpering out a broken “yes”. More than happy with his response she gently pulled him up by his hair and started undoing his belt, his oversized pants easily falling down without the extra support. Just another thing about him that she had come to adore. She was very pleased by the obvious bulge that protruded through his baby blue checkered boxers. 

Before she pulled those down too, though, she very gently reached up and cupped his cheeks, guiding his plump lips to her own, basking in the delighted whimpers that escaped his mouth at the soft but passionate contact. She released his lips with a slight nip and proceeded with his clothing removal, coaxing him to sit down in the swirly chair he had been previously residing in, before straddling his lap. 

“You ready sweet boy?”, she asked leaning forward to kiss his rouge forehead and cheeks.

“Mhmm I’m r-ready.”

Taking that as the go ahead, she cautiously positioned herself over his throbbing erection before slowly lowering herself inch by inch until he was completely enveloped by her tight, warm walls. 

“Oh-ohh my.”, he whimpered at the overwhelming feeling of being connected so intimately. Gently, she started to move a bit more, hesitantly lifting up before lowering herself back down, flush against his lap, one of her soft hands anchoring herself to his shoulder while the other caressed his flushed cheeks.

“I know baby, I know. You feel so good baby boy I don’t think I’m going to be able to last much longer.”

“M-me neither.”, he stuttered as the pace she had previously set seemed to increase in speed, the excitement and ecstasy getting to the both of them and subconsciously pushing the two of them closer to their shared release. 

The fire was quickly building within her body and she knew she was truly crumbling at the seams, but with the way his body was trembling and his dick was subtly twitching inside of her she knew he was right there too.

“It’s ok baby boy, it’s ok. Cum for me sweet boy. I want you to cum inside and fill up my pussy Spence.”, she muttered feeling the beginning of her end crash unexpectedly throughout her entire being, grasping onto the boy underneath her to tie herself to the earth. 

Overwhelmed by the utter euphoria of Y/n cumming around him, Spencer let himself get thrown off the edge, his hands tightening on her waist hard enough she was sure little bruises would form come tomorrow, not that she minded at all.

“Oh Y/n!” She watched on, obsessed with the way that his mouth fell open in a little o-shape as his eyes squeezed shut, the tell tale signs of pleasure coursing through his veins, the warm feeling that he left deep inside of her as she gently lifted herself from his shaking legs, reaching for her panties before the warmth was able to escape down her damp thighs.

Looking back at the trembling boy after cleaning herself and him up, she couldn’t help but melt at the lovesick, puppy dog eyes he was giving her, prompting her to lean forward and leave more little kisses on the top of his damp hair.

“That was incredible Spence. Really incredible. I’ve never felt anything like that before baby.”

She melted even further at the way he shyly dropped his head to somewhat hide the wide grin that had spread like wildfire across his face. There was a comfortable silence between the two of them before his head lifted with a questioning glance.

“How’d you-I mean uh how did you know that I liked you?” There was no way she could control the giggles that left her lips at his silly question.

“You weren’t exactly subtle with the whole glasses thing Spence.”

And then the only sound heard throughout the building was her full blown laughter at the mortification that speedily adorned his cherry cheeks.

Tag List: @hopebaker @pastathighs @psychedellic-phase @gloryekaterina @sleepysnapesnake @racharr @etherealgubler @furiouspartyrebelhoagie @andiebeaword @liaabsurd @cielo1984 @starkeybaby @victomizedbyreginageorge @rainsong01 @moonlight-jukebox @gretaamyk @httpnxtt @rachelxwayne @watermelonstyl @goldnratio @cheyxminds @kricketc29 @cupcake525 @pinkdiamond1016 @slutforthegubes @shadyladyperfection @emilysallysmith @babblingbrookex @legendaryanimeaestheticclou @sunstspidey @ashwarren32 @pixels-impulse @eviewildflower @spencerreider @awkwardsadaa @dirty-pan-goblin @ughgoaway @cromies90-blog @mightaswell247 @calm-and-doctor @golden-hoax @1mpvls3 @lonewolf471 @centiaaa @spencerspecifics

[duckugou]

the blood on our hands

bakugou x gn!reader

aged up!

cw: a n g s t as hell. comfort. cursing, mentions of drinking, smoking, etc. alluding to depression and anxiety. dealing with trauma of missions and losing people. a ton of mentions of blood

this is a heavy topic in the hero universe i imagine- and generally in the mental health world of it all.

lyrics are from purple flowers by ande estrella which hold a very important meaning that has nothing to do with this- they just worked with the story. But fr go listen to it bc its so good.

come to my asks to be a part of my taglist! just let me know what kinds of fics/ what fandom/ what characters/ etc you want to be tagged in! Requests are open!!

------------------------------------------------

reality is heavy and loud

Spacing out was more than being distracted to Y/n. Being a young hero meant stressful situations, overbearing management, tight spaces, stuffy meetings, and so much... blood. It takes a toll on a young person. Of course they wanted to be a hero- wouldn't chose anything else. They grin and bear this shit for a reason- to save and help people.

But god, who saves the heros?

but white has the privilege of washing machines to wash out the stains from their comfortable jeans

Some nights, after wrap-up meetings, everything was a bit too heavy. The usual group of friends and young heroes would choose someone's house to go to in order to destress.

For some, that was smoking. For some, it was drinking, video games, napping, venting, sitting outside alone yet with company. And for some it was merely listening to everyone else.

Not having to make a decision. Not having to be responsible. That's what y/n picked every time.

Bakugou would always notice them alone in the corner of the room. They were the one to come up with destress gatherings after hard missions. Bakugou knew it was so they wouldn't be alone with their thoughts. That's why he would always step in at times like as get them to talk, so those thoughts dont stay trapped in their head.

"Hey." Bakugou muttered, sitting on the floor next to y/n in Denkis apartment.

"Hey."

"You good, dude?" Bakugou asked with genuine concern.

He was always a bit nicer to Y/n. Nobody knew why, yet everyone knew why. They both were fragile and chose to hide it during the day, being strong around others to not raise red flags.

"I'm okay...just. That one was bad. I almost lost that kid. Like she almost fucking- died in my arms." Y/n choked out.

"Hey hey hey, its okay. You got her to the ambulance in time. You did that shit. You always do. You're the best in the game at comforting little twerps." Bakugou attempted to comfort them- somewhat succeeding and holding their head against his chest.

One time, Y/n mentioned that they held kids against their chest during rescues to calm their heartbeat. "If you listen to a calmer heartbeat, you're more likely to try to match it and slow your own down." Of course you wouldn't think Y/n would be able to have a calm heartbeat during a rescue, but they are very talented at controlling their nerves. Part of being a hero.

wiping the blood off their hands to their thighs, wearing the blood of the people who've died

Y/n subconsciously calmed down a bit, Bakugou's ability to remember every word that drips off of Y/n's lips paying off.

"I know. I just can't stop...thinking about everyone I've- we've lost. Its so unfair."

"I know. Hey, you have- uh. Lets go to the bathroom." Bakugou noticed a smudge of blood on Y/n's face and a bit on their hands. Cleaning up was the last thing on their mind earlier on.

"Ok."

Taking each other's hands, they walked into the bathroom. Bakugou sat Y/n on the counter, turning on the sink and grabbing a cloth.

"O-oh god. Thats fucking blood. I thought I washed my h-hands." Y/n began panicking, causing Bakugou to put their hands under the water with soap, washing it all off for them.

Tears mixed with the water from the sink and Bakugou stayed silent. Wiping their face, Bakugou looked into Y/n's eyes. These two have just always known.

They know what people can hide. What secret messages the body language of a person can hold. And he let them grip onto the back of his shirt as he held them in his arms, Y/n not being able to cry anymore and just breathing in his scent from his shoulder.

but dont let the purple flowers fool you

"Listen. We're going to get through this one. I know its hard on you- all of the families involved. But you- we saved them. We're all here for each other right? I'm here for you." Bakugou pulls Y/n back a little to look into their eyes. "You are the strongest one here. I know it fucking hurts. I know it is so...scary-" He sniffles a little, letting his own emotions take over. Something only he did when they were alone together. "- but we're heroes. And human. We are allowed to feel pain and sadness and disappointment- but we're heroes for a reason, right? We can handle this shit."

"I know we can. We always have. Just... promise you'll never leave me?"

"Youre so stupid. I've been more careful lately." He scoffs, wiping tears from his face. He of course knew that Y/n was referring to a few weeks ago when Bakugou got too caught up in the mission and was almost crushed by debris. He was pulled away in time by a fellow hero but it still opened his eyes, as well as Y/n, to how fragile they are, even if they are the heroes.

"I know Kats, but please. You're my rock in here. You're my person." Y/n says looking into his eyes.

"And you're my person. I can't leave you behind. You wouldn't know what to do without me here." Bakugou chuckles, earning a shove from Y/n.

"Katsuki." Y/n starts, holding his hands in their own.

"Yeah." He sighs.

"I don't speak lightly of feelings, you know that right?"

"Of course I know that. You don't talk much about those to anyone-"

"Except you." They interrupt Bakugou, reminding him of the importance of their unspoken bond and making his heart race.

"Yeah."

"Then you'll know how hard it is for me to say this. But- Katsuki I think I love you. I know we aren't super affectionate outside of being alone but- I've never felt what I feel with you before. I understand if you don't feel the same way and if this was all just because you felt bad but I needed to tell you that because you're really important and this is very import-"

Bakugou, in the most cliche turn of events, cuts Y/n off with a kiss to shut them up.

Pulling away, Bakugou rests his forehead on Y/n's .

"I love you too. I thought that was obvious when I never stopped you from saying my first name, idiot." He chuckles lightly.

"I kinda figured you at least liked me-"

"I'm going to keep you safe forever. That means physically and emotionally. No more hiding any feelings from me just because there are people around. Pull me aside. Hold me if you need or want to- I dont care if the whole world sees that. But just- fuck Y/n. I know you feel fragile. I know what it's like to be scared and hide it. I'm your diary now, ok? Always."

"Thank you...Katsuki. Fuck. You're everything I've ever needed. Plus youre kinda cute too I suppose." Y/n giggles.

"Oi fuck off." Bakugou kisses them again, relieved that he can finally be himself with Y/n, that he has them finally.

"I'm your diary too them, okay? I mean it. Anything, any time, say the word." Y/n says lightly, squeezing Bakugou's hand.

"Fuck. I love you."

"I love you too. I love how that sounds coming from you by the way."

"Me the fuck too-" Bakugou was interrupted by a loud yelling-

"I GOTTA PISSSSSS" followed by banging on the door.

"MAYBE YOU SHOULDN'T DRINK SO FAST THEN LIGHT WEIGHT!" Bakugou responds, recognizing the voice of Denki.

"DONT MAKE FUN OF MEEEE I'LL LAUGH AND PEE MYSELF" Denki whined.

"Let's go, angel." Bakugou whispers into Y/n's hair, kissing them on the head and helping them off of the counter.

[mari-rosa-skiess]

omg i love your writing sm😳❤️ I JUST REALIZED THAT IM THE SAME AGE IF YURIO AGH ITS A GREAT DAY TO BE 15😩👌 also, may i request yurio who meets the reader in japan (like he met her maybe after viktor chooses his program) and she's a skateboarder so like she accidentally skates into him! i feel like it'd be really innteresting to see an ice skater and a skater together as a couple haha (bonus if she's won national skateboarding competitions😎) have a great day and remember to stay hydrated!❤️

-

yes !!! i love this idea !! i went on a hiatus again, so sorry it’s VERY late, i hope it’s worth it though LOL

i’m personally not a skater, so i’m sorry if this isn’t accurate to how people skate :(

-mari<3

Navigation

Warnings: None I believe, just some swearing!

Pronouns: she/her

Words: 1.5k

-

You always enjoyed skateboarding. It was your favorite activity since you’ve been younger. It was kind of the way you were able to let stress go and have fun, especially since you are in your mid-teens. Things get rough at age 15, but there’s always skating there to help you.

You were skating down the streets one day in Japan, your (h/c) hair was flowing in the strong breeze since it was a significantly colder day, it was winter after all. There was snow on the ground, but only on the side of the roads and sidewalks, but it was all pretty melted.

You closed your eyes for a second because it felt like the wind was making your eyes shrivel up, but a few seconds later, you fell to the ground with a small ‘hmph’ leaving your lips.

You opened your eyes to see a shortish boy standing up, he looked pissed to say the very least.

“WHY WEREN’T YOU WATCHING WHERE YOU WERE GOING?!” the blond feminine boy screamed.

You stood up and dusted off your clothes, for some small pebbles and dirt got on you when you fell.

“I could say that same about you,” you crossed your arms, raising an eyebrow.

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN!? YOU’RE THE ONE WHO RAN STRAIGHT INTO ME!” He screamed, although it was kind of difficult to understand him because of his thick Russian accent, especially because he was screaming.

“Well, you could’ve simply stepped out of the way when you saw me skating towards you, you could’ve simply stepped aside when I was like four yards away,” You pointed out.

“It seems you also were not paying attention to your surroundings,” you spoke in a snarky tone, smirking.

He went to say something else to defend himself, but he was dumbfounded, not to mention exhausted from the strenuous training from figure skating.

“You’re lucky I’m not in the mood to argue today,” he sighed, picking up his bag he had dropped.

“Yeah, whatever you say,” you replied, dropping down your skateboard.

After you got a closer look at his face, you realized he seemed familiar. You’ve seen him somewhere, but you’re not sure where. Maybe in a store? No, that couldn’t be it.

“Where are you going?” you asked him, slowly skating by him while he walked.

“Figure skating practice, Viktor doesn’t like it when I’m late,” he softly said.

“What’s it to you?” he added, slightly raising his voice.

“I feel like I’ve seen you somewhere,” you stared at him blankly, but still paying enough attention to the control you have on your skateboard so you don’t lose balance and topple over.

“You’ve probably seen me on TV, I won Grand Prix gold,” he stated.

“Oh, Yuri Plisetsky, that’s where I’ve heard of you,”

Yuri blushed at how you said his name, it sounded so beautiful the way you said it, almost as beautiful as he found the rest of you. It didn’t take him long to notice your features after he cooled down from his baby tantrum.

He just looked away and went quiet, not saying anything else. After a few minutes, you guys arrived at the rink. Viktor was waiting by the door.

You picked up your skateboard and just held it since there was no reason for you to just stand by it.

“Yurio, you know how I feel about you being late,” the tall man with silver hair stated in a slightly annoyed tone.

“Yeah, whatever,” he mumbled under his breath.

Viktor’s eyes flickered to you and a grin appeared on his face.

“Oh, I see, you were out with your girlfriend! Why didn’t you tell me you have a girlfriend?” Viktor excitedly exclaimed.

Yuri’s face turned red, so did yours.

“No, we just met a few minutes ago,” you shook your head.

“Yeah, this bitch carelessly bumped into me and knocked me over,” Yuri crossed his arms.

“Bitch?!” you asked.

“Okay! I see I was wrong,” Viktor nervously chuckled.

“Why don’t you guys say bye to each other then you can meet me inside, Yurio?” Viktor suggested.

“Okay, fine,”

Viktor said goodbye to you before walking back in the rink, going to get his skates on before Yuri walked in.

“Well, hopefully we don’t cross paths again,” you said irritated, dropping your skateboard back down.

Yuri let out a sigh.

“I’m sorry,” he mumbled.

Yuri was surprised by himself. He never apologizes for anything, it’s just part of his personality to be a dick, but here he is, apologizing!

“What was that?” you asked, turning your head.

“I’m sorry,” he spoke up.

“I didn’t mean it, I’m just a dickhead, you’re not a bitch,” Yuri looked down, blushing.

“Alright, I forgive you...I think,” you said, questioning your own words.

“I’ll see you around,” you spoke.

“Wait, what’s your name?” Yuri asked you.

“Oh, right, it’s (Y/N),” you smiled.

He was shocked that you even had a beautiful name.

“Okay, see you later,” he flashed a small smile before walking into the skating rink.

You skated off, actually feeling good about having a new friend. You did find him cute though, and you were sure he’s sweet when he’s not mad. You kind of mentally beat up yourself for not getting his number, but hopefully, there will be other opportunities.

---

It’s been a few days since you bumped into Yuri, and you still thought about him occasionally, as did he. You decided to skate by the rink to see if he was there. Since he couldn’t drive, there was no way to really know if he was there unless you looked in.

The place was rented out, so if it was closed, the doors would probably be locked.

You picked up your skateboard and walked over to the door and pulled on the handle. A small smile appeared on your face when it opened. You walked inside and heard music playing.

You didn’t want anyone to see you because you didn’t want anyone to think you were creepy, so you kneeled down by the part of the skating rink wall that didn’t have a window and watched through the window part.

Yuri was elegantly skating around the rink, his routine already seemed flawless - to you at least - you weren’t used to seeing many people figure skate. He actually didn’t look annoyed for once, but he did look sweaty.

Very sweaty.

You looked down and noticed your skateboard started rolling away from you. You silently cursed under your breath before trying to grab it without making any noise. You ended up grabbing it, but you accidentally launched it because you lost grip of it while you were trying to set it up against the wall.

It made a loud clattering noise before rolling and hitting the wall. Since the room was so big, it echoed and caused Yuri to mess up his routine.

Viktor facepalmed and turned off the music.

“It was great until that noise distracted you...what even was that?” Viktor asked, looking around.

Viktor and Yuri both skated over to the exit of the rink and stepped out, looking around the lobby. You were hoping they wouldn’t see you despite you being literally four feet away from them. 

Viktor saw you and you flashed a nervous smile before standing up.

“Yurio, you got a visitor,” Viktor spoke before walking back onto the rink.

Yuri looked over at you and he surprisingly wasn’t mad.

“Sorry for messing up your routine,” you apologized, looking really nervous.

“Oh... it’s just slightly annoying, I can always redo it,” he blushed.

“It was really good before I distracted you though,” you smiled.

“Oh, thanks,” his face reddened.

A few seconds of silence passed before Viktor walked back off the rink.

“Yurio, take a short break,” he said.

Yuri nodded before taking off his skates while still standing.

“Do you know where your board went?” he asked.

You looked around on the floor before spotting it, you walked over and picked it up.

“Why do you skate so much?” Yuri asked.

“I- Uh- It’s a hobby, and I’m also a competitive skater...with skateboarding, obviously,” you nervously said.

“That actually sounds interesting,” Yuri spoke.

“That’s surprising coming from you,” you smiled.

“What do you mean?” he asked confused.

“I mean, you are a dick,” you smirked and crossed your arms.

He rolled his eyes with a small frown.

“Joking!” you exclaimed, giggling.

“Anyway, we should hang out sometime if you’re up to you,” you smiled at the blond.

His face went back to the red shade it was previously at.

“A-Alright,” he stammered.

You pulled a small slip of paper out of your pocket that you wrote your number down on pre-hand in case you ran into him.

“Here’s my number, I’m free most of the time, just text me,” you smiled at him.

He took the slip of paper from your hand and put it into his pocket.

“Alright,” he smiled.

“I’ll let you get back to what you were doing, see you around!” you exclaimed with a smile while waving as you walked out.

“Bye!” he shouted.

Let’s just say, he did text you a lot when he got home.

[band--psycho]

Robin Buckley x Reader-A Dream Come True

Requested by @spongebob-in-the-upsidedown, I hope you all enjoy this! 💛

1.3K Writing Celebration Masterlist / Other Character Masterlist

Robins POV

“Steve!” Y/ns voice echoed through the relatively quiet ice cream shop, instantly catching my attention. The very sound of her voice making a smile creep onto my face almost instantly.  I’d had a crush on Y/n for a while now, not that anyone knew except Steve. Who would constantly tease me for how I got when Y/n was around, it was apparently very comical to witness, so much so that even Y/n's little brother Dustin decided to join in with Steve's teasing. But recently, Dustin ended up saying that Y/n had feelings for someone, I had no idea how he knew this, nor did I really want to know. But I couldn’t help but feel both nervous and excited by the thought that Y/n liked someone. Nervous because I honestly had know idea how I’d be able to watch her be with someone, the very thought of it made my blood boil. But I was also excited because, even though it was a long shot, I couldn’t help but hope that she might choose me.

Third Person POV

“You are never gonna  believe what just happened,” Y/n continued to holler as she made her way to the back room. It was almost like time had slowed down and sped up all at the same time, the anxiety of Y/ns footsteps getting ever closer making Robin even more nervous as she desperately tried to figure out what to do, trying desperately to find her voice. 

“Honestly, how I haven’t killed anyone yet is a bloody...miracle” Y/n finished, her voice trailing off slightly as her eyes landed on Robin. 

“Robin! I...I’m so sorry I thought Steve was working tonight,” Y/n stuttered out as a light shade of pink crept onto her cheeks. 

It’s..it’s okay, Y/n/n,” Robin quickly reassured, with a smile, one that only made the blush on Y/ns cheeks grow.

“I’ll..um.I’ll just go,” Y/n said with a shakiness in her voice, backing away slowly, wanting to escape this embarrassing situation quickly.  But before she could exit the room Robin began to talk, “You don’t have to...I could..um get you some ice cream and we could talk about it....unless you wanna go, then that’s totally fine, of course it is, you don’t have to stay just because I’ve asked..I uh..I’m rambling aren’t I? I always seem to do that, I just can’t seem to stop talking when I’m- ” 

“Robin!” Y/n shouted slightly, placing her hands on Robin's shoulders as she interrupted her ramble, desperately trying to stop her mind from thinking how cute she looked when she was all flustered like this.

 “Breathe”She continued in a calmer tone, lightly massaging her shoulders in an attempt to soothe her seeing how stressed she was. 

“Sor...sorry,” As Robin stuttered out those words, she realised just how close she was to Y/n; all she’d have to do is move a few inches and she’d be kissing her...she wanted to do that so badly, she’d often dreamt of what it would be like to kiss her, she tried not to but as hard as she tried, her mind would often wonder to Y/n and her peachy pink lips, how it would feel to have them against hers, how they would taste. But little did Robin know, Y/n felt exactly the same. The y/c/h haired girl had often found herself daydreaming about Robin and as much as she wanted to try and deny her feelings for Robin...when they were like this..when they were this close..she couldn’t. Y/ns eyes locked onto Robins and then glanced down at her lips before looking back up into Robin's eyes, silently asking for permission to make the craziest and boldest move she’d ever made. It took a few seconds for Robin to catch onto what Y/n’s actions were asking but when she realised, she couldn’t stop the smile that came upon her face as she closed the distance between the two of them herself. At first the kiss was gentle and sweet, both of them taking the time to savour each and every moment of the kiss. They had no idea how long they’d been kissing but when they did pull away, a beaming smile was clear to see on both of their faces. 

“Maybe I should ramble more often,” Robin joked against Y/ns lips, before pecking them quickly. The action making a sweet giggle fall from Y/ns lips as a blush crept onto her cheeks. Nothing else needed to be said, they both felt it, as soon as their lips touched. All of the unspoken feelings, they’d both felt for each other in the past few months poured out into that kiss. They both knew how one another felt, without having to say it. All they could do was smile at each other, as they both replayed what just happened. 

“Maybe you should,” Y/n whispered, wrapping her arms loosely around Robin's neck, her fingers lightly stroking the back of her neck softly before pulling her back into another kiss. It was like a dream come true for both of them and they were going to enjoy it for as long as they possibly could.

Tagging:

@xacatalepsyx @savior-adriana @tigerf-cker @jamie-lee666​ 

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[noirwritingtime]

Dangerous.. Lifeform?

CW: horror, language, paranoia/anxiety

******

"Henrik- Hen, I uh.. this may be a bad time to drop this on you but I've.. well, it's easier to explain once you're here! See you soon, please hurry-"

Henrik frowns slightly, hearing the voicemail repeat once more. Vhat zhe fuck is he doing? The good doctor drives to their shared place, growing more and more concerned as time passes.

He was right to be concerned.

All the lights are on, some lamps too, and it is bright as an endless lit void. The doctor has to squint his eyes slightly from how bright it is in the house.

"Jackie?"

The sound of footsteps come from the hallway and Jackie waves him over.

"C'mere, it's in here."

That's concerning, thinks the doctor.

"Vhat's in there?" Jackie shakes his head and waves him over again. The doctor sighs and heads over. "I mean it Jackie."

"You'll see-"

The hero opens the door to the spare back room. The two head inside, the doctor seeing what Jackie was talking about. A silent gasps leaves him.

"Vhat..who?" He mutters, not able to look away.

"It showed up one day.."

In front of them, masked by the darkest corner of the not so brightly lit room, sits a figure. Curled over itself and emitting a low hum. Henrik moves closer, just by a bit before being yoinked back by Jackie.

"It's not happy-"

It is a good thing Jackie grabbed him cause the thing swiped at him- large claws being the main thing visible and terrifying.

The doctor gasps, noting the claws.

The thing pushes back into the corner after stating its place with the others.

"Does it-" He clears his throat and addresses the thing instead. "Do you speak?"

It shifts as it tries to form a response.

"Grhgh..I can." It flashes its eyes at him, bright green scleras are the only thing seen. This shocks both the doctor and hero.

"Oh, that is great. Do you have a name?"

"Anti. Hhrk."

"Do you have something in your throat?"

It doesn't respond to that, but if its face was visible the others would note the devilish smirk it wears. It shifts again to stare at Henrik, taking an interest.

"Anti is a unique name, did you choose it?" Henrik tilts his head, interested enough that he almost forgets he has to chastise Jackie for harboring an unknown creature without telling him sooner.

"..sort of."

"Zhat's nice. Where did you come from?"

It gurgles, maybe it is giggling. After a moment of very loud gurgling, it goes quiet.

"Not here."

Henrik figured that might be the answer it gives. He hums.

"You've got humor."

It smiles and nods, quite proud of that about itself.

"Well, I'm going to go talk with my friend. You just sit tight." Henrik smiles at the thing and backs away with Jackie.

The two exit the room and Henrik slaps Jackie's shoulder.

"Vhat zhe fuck happened? Start talking." Henrik says hushed and quickly. Jackie looks down and nods.

"I will I will-" Jackie takes a moment to gather his thoughts. He feels the gaze from the doctor and looks at him. "It showed up one day in my room, don't know how, but it happened. I panicked and then it started panicking? I'm not sure. Next thing I know, I've got it cornered into that room, cause the thing doesn't like lights apparently."

Henrik raises a brow. "Is that why every light in the house is at full brightness?" Jackie nods. "Makes sense.. have you talked at all- how soon after did you message me?"

"Eh.. not long after I got it in there. I didn't try to talk, tried giving it food but it tried scratching me so I didn't try again."

"That's good thinking." Henrik rubs his chin. "What now.. We should talk with it, but I'm not sure what else we could do about this."

Jackie nods and glances at the door to the room it's in. He wonders why it showed up.. and how?

"I want to talk to it again."

"I'll be with you."

In the dark corner, it stirs slightly. It hears the two talk through the walls, it hears everything. It smirks, though no one can see. The creature had been listening and waiting, letting the fall of humans guide it to its goal..

The door to the room opens, letting in additional light that makes it slink back into the corner even more. Funny thing about humans, so quick to assume..

"Hello again, you up to chatting?" Henrik starts the conversation, walking into the room and staying a comfortable distance away. The creature looks at him.

"Yes."

"Wonderful. What are you?"

It gurgles before giving an answer. "Anti."

"Is Anti a species?" He raises a brow, not sure if its playing with him. It is. It so is playing with the doctor because it shakes its head no.

"Well.. then vhat are you?"

A giggle. Then a tilt of the head.

"I'll move to a different question then," Henrik gets the idea that Anti will be stubborn, especially for certain questions. "Are you here for harm?"

"No. Just here."

"Here for vhat?"

"Existing. Exploring.." It trails off.

"New here?" Henrik smiles, being as gentle and friendly a presence he can be. It shakes its head before continuing.

"I've been here before."

Henrik tilts his head and raises a brow. "Oh, that's good. Where have you been?"

It smiles wide.

"Here."

Here? This sends a shiver down Henrik's spine. Here, like this house? When-?

"This house- you mean?"

A simple nod is all it takes to make Henrik's heart pound, and all the very limited color in his face disappear. "Oh- that's nice.." His throat feels dry. "H-how long? Ago, I mean. How long ago did you visit?"

"Which time?"

"Zhe first-" Henrik glances away, not sure if this is still safe. Oh, what am I thinking- This isn't safe at all! The light is the only thing we have right now- His hands fiddle with the fabric of his pockets.

"Years. Forgot the number."

Henrik swallows dryly, and glances to Jackie- who heads over and grabs Henrik's shoulder.

"Excuse us, we'll talk later Anti." With that, Jackie takes Henrik out of the room.

Once away from the thing Henrik starts shaking his hands in repetitive motions.

"Years?!- Jackie, how-" He visibly distresses, rocking back and forth on his feet. "How did we never see? Vhat has it done here? Oh God-"

"Henrik, hey bud. You're okay.." He speaks gently, watching the doctor and refraining from touching him. It's never a good idea to touch Henrik when he's panicked unless asked.

"Am I?!" He looks back at Jackie, shaking one hand spastically. He blinks and takes in a breath. "Sorry Jackie.. I didn't mean to yell."

Jackie smiles gently, understanding. "Its alright. This guy is unnerving, definitely creepy." He rubs the back of his neck.

Henrik nods, continuing to move and get his worries out. "Yeah, yes. I don't like how it's been here, before. Before."

"Mhm. It doesn't help that it isn't answering easily."

"That's the worst part." Henrik mutters.

"I agree.."

Henrik shakes his hands more before settling. "Alright.. we need to get through this. Now." He looks to Jackie before going back to the door with Jackie following.

"You got this, I'm right there with you Hen."

"Thanks, we'll-" Henrik shakes and freezes in the doorway. "Where is it? Jackie? Jackie it's not there-" His voice raises with fear.

"What?" Jackie looks in the room. "Hen, its okay- I'm right herAh-!"

Henrik blinked and everything changed. An instant change, that thing was gone. Where is Jackie? He turned back to see and is set into an adrenaline rush.

The walls. He finally saw what has happened. Oh god the walls, it's all sickly and dark and is that Jackie's leg in the ceiling-

"Jackie!" Henrik reaches for his leg, trying to bring him back down. The thing must've grabbed him from the thick substances coating what seems like everywhere- oh where did it go?!

Jackie's leg slowly becomes legs and then torso and thank fuck- he's breathing, barely but it's there. He coughs and weakly grabs at Henrik, thick globs of dark essence falls and spills out of his mouth and ears.

Henrik stares wide eyed at Jackie as he holds him before trying to guide him out of the hellish room. "Jackie- keep, keep coughing. Get that out-" He tugs him along, slipping but still standing. His heart pounds as he feet try to keep him moving.

"Try- gahhr-chh-" Jackie shakes with the amount of force in each cough. Weakly clinging to Henrik's guidance.

"Keep coughing-" Henrik stops, shaking more at the sight.

It's everywhere now, for sure.. If Henrik didn't have fantastic memory he wouldn't be able to tell you the color of the walls or where any pictures are on the wall. The floor is coated, and moving? Its moving, rippling and pulsing.

"Jackie- we have to go.." His words tremble and he rushes himself and Jackie into the hallway.

It's so heavy.. thick and dark. Is that giggling? Breathing? Maddening.

"C'mon- don't let go okay?" Henrik is stressed and trying his best, worried about the amount that's still spilling out of Jackie's mouth.

Thick globs drop from the ceiling, coating the floor below and near creating a wall to the outside.

But, the two manage to get outside. Henrik wants to go further but Jackie's coughing urges him to stop and tend to his friend.

"Jackie, cough as hard as you can." Henrik sets him down on the lawn and places a hand on his back. Trying to help get the weird thing out of him.

Jackie whimpers and nods, his throat feeling dry and slimy at the same time. "Hggrh-" He coughs hard and a slimy hard thing falls onto the ground. "Hhhh- ghhod." He coughs more and stares at the thing. The thing slowly melts onto the ground.

Henrik pats his back. "I've.. I got you-"

"I," His voice rasps, finally having a clear throat but it's extremely dry. "I can breathe.. now.." He keeps his eyes set on the thing, watching it.

"Good, that's good.. let's, can you get up? I don't want to be here-"

"No.. we cant let it get out. Imagine the.. the panic." He rasps, giving Henrik a look that could only mean he's wanting to be heroic.

"Jackie! We've got to wait or something-" He pleads, glancing at the house. Not wanting to think about what is inside. Growing.

"But- It could escape!" Jackie looks at Henrik.

"Ve should call, Jackie! No.. no heroing." Henrik pleads, shaking. "Please."

Jackie looks at him for a few moment before nodding. "Okay.. I won't Hen. I promise."

"Thank you" His voice cracks and he hugs Jackie, momentarily ignoring the weird substance and how it coats his clothing and skin.

Jackie only nods in response, patting Henrik's back. "We need to call- who?" He asks quietly.

"I don't know.." He shrugs, keeping close to Jackie. All that matters for the moment is Jackie can breathe and they both got out.

Out.

---------------

"Marvin, ve- no, don't! Ve just need ozhers to deal vith it. Not us! Marvin, please." He pleads on the phone with Marvin. Henrik is trying to explain to the others that the house is not safe.

"No- I don't want you to risk that! Marvin!"

A hand settles on Henrik's shoulder and grips gently, Jackie trying to calm him down.

"Henrik-"

"He's not listening!" Henrik's voice only raises in pitch and stress.

"I know I know, let me talk to him.." Jackie says comfortingly, gently guiding the phone into his own hand. "Alright Marvin. . ."

Henrik listens to them both talk before glancing at the house, yet again. It looks so peaceful. Like nothing is wrong. How wrong that is. Well, is that wrong? Maybe it's all better. He's been under quite a lot of stress.. might be seeing things.

Without fully connecting how he got there, he feels the cool metal of the door handle in his hand.

"Wha-" Henrik blinks and backs away quickly, ripping his hand off the handle. "Jackie!"

"Hm, oh!" Jackie rushes over and pulls Henrik close. "What are you doing?" He looks worriedly at Henrik. The doctor is disturbed.

"I.. I don't know!" Henrik looks to Jackie. "I don't remember getting here." He whimpers, letting himself get pulled away by Jackie.

"Its okay, breathe.." Jackie mutters soothingly. "Let's go back over here and wait for the police."

Henrik nods, watching the house. He swears the whole place flickers.

---------------

This better not be some crackhead call or prank. The police officer pulls up to the house, looking over the two people looking like an actual mess. He sighs before getting out.

"Alrighty you two, I don't want to deal with nonsense shit." He walks over to the others.

Henrik and Jackie look over, ready to hear the cop call them all sorts of names.

"We aren't joking, sir." Jackie starts, his throat cleared up a bit more from waiting. "It's dangerous inside and Henrik doesn't want me to deal with it."

The police officer shakes his head in disbelief. "I'll just go look before I bring you two in." He walks over to the door.

Henrik's eyes widen. "Wait-" He holds a hand out. "It's not safe!" Jackie holds him back.

The cop looks back and raises a brow. "Sure thing buddy." He grabs the door handle and opens it. He whistles at the sight. "Lot of work you put into this fellas." He mutters before pulling his flashlight out and turning it on to see inside.

The sound of loud maniacal cackling fills Jackie and Henrik's heads. Taunting.

"Wait, you think we're pranking you?" Jackie calls out. "Don't go inside yet!"

The cop doesn't answer and goes inside.

The door shuts behind him.

Those cackles leave their heads and fills the air.

Jackie stares at the door with a panicked expression. "Oh no. No- We have to go in now Hen!" He moves to go after the cop, getting to the door and tugging the handle.

Locked.

Henrik chases after Jackie. "Hey! Jackie wait, no!" He sees that Jackie has not entered yet, meaning the door is locked which spikes more panic. "Oh no.."

"He's locked in there- I have to get him out!" Jackie moves back from the door and kicks by the handle with his heel. Easily breaking through the wood with his strength and mighty kick. Scrambling, he pulls his foot back and reaches through to the other side. He unlocks the door but before he can go in, Henrik's hand begs him to stay.

"Henrik, I have to help him."

Henrik stares, muttering and stopping himself. Unable to think clearly. He doesn't want Jackie hurt but there is a man in trouble!

"Henrik, I'll be okay."  He says gently, grabbing and holding Henrik's hand to reassure him. With a gentle squeeze, he swings the door open to face the hell within.

----------------

You can find this and a soon-to-be-extended story of this, and more at my wattpad, @actualwheat ! Thanks for reading! :D

[theyreonlynoodlesmike]

Hi, I just eondered, what could be the reasons for fighting with boys and how they generally feel about this? Are they waiting for the first step, or are they making amends on their own? How do they choose to make up? Do they provoke serious fights?

So, I’ve done like one fic where I mention a fight with them, but this is definitely something I have some headcanons about. I’m gonna do this separate, because I think each boy is different when it comes to fights

The Lost Boys x Fighting with their S/O

David

Fights with David don’t happen often. David picked you because he needs someone to be the submissive to his dominant personality, and that includes letting him get his way 99% of the time. David likes control, and he doesn’t like being questioned. Because he’s the main decision maker, most of your fights happen when you disagree with him.

David doesn’t mean to be an ass (okay, sometimes he does), but he genuinely doesn’t think that whenever you argue with him you’re being serious. He’s the one in charge. He’s the one that gets to make decisions. He’s the one that when he says jump you ask how high. So, if you disagree with him enough to actually start an argument about it, David won’t take you seriously. He’ll think that maybe he just needs to convince you, because letting you have your way isn’t really even a thought in his head. He might even coo at you at how cute you are for thinking that you have any say in how this goes. If the fight continues and you give him sass, you’re in trouble

With a flip of a switch, he’s as cold as ice. The mood will change at the drop of a hat, and all the teasing from before will seem like a lifetime away. He’ll stare down at you, and say in an unnervingly calm voice, “Now, listen here, kitten. I don’t know who you think you’re talking to, but it ain’t me.”

David won’t necessarily yell during major fights, but he definitely won’t hold back from saying whatever he wants to say. His tongue can cut like a razor, and he refuses to apologize for anything that he said later on. If you two do end up having a major fight, he’ll send one of the boys to talk to you for him. This can either go the route of you coming to him and choosing to let water flow under the bridge (the two of you will pretend it never happened) or you refusing to talk to him. If you choose the latter, he’ll come talk to you after about a week has past. He still considers you his and he doesn’t want to lose you, but you’re aware any apologies said by him first probably aren’t genuine. If you talk to him about it, he’ll explain why he felt the way he did and he’ll allow you to explain the same. The two of you will come to a compromise (one that usually sways just a little bit more in his favor) and then you two can go back as if nothing happened

If you want to get through to him (which is like trying to get through a brick wall once his mind is made up) without a major fight occuring, you either have to have some major (most likely sexual) leverage or be 100% respectful. You have to carefully explain why you feel the way that you do, and why you don’t want to do the thing that he wants. He’ll stare at you the entire time, and he will actually listen! He just might not change his mind anyways. This is where leverage comes in. David isn’t completely unreasonable. He’s not Max. He can be swayed. He just needs there to be something in it for him that is considered more desirable than the pleasure he gets from getting his way. Sexual favors are a really easy substitute

If Davids the one that’s mad at you, all you have to do is agree to what he wants and let him be as dominating as he wants in the bedroom afterwards. Your legs may be sore, but your vampire boyfriend is definitely happier

Dwayne

Dwayne doesn’t like fighting. It doesn’t matter if they happen often or not, fighting with Dwayne is completely one-sided. He believes in talking things out rather than letting things fester, and you have his full trust. He’s a ‘fix-it’ type of guy. The minute he feels something is wrong, he’ll talk to you about it. He’ll get your point of view and he’ll try to adjust accordingly. So ‘fights’ are on you

That doesn’t mean Dwayne doesn’t ever get angry. He’s a pretty physical guy when it comes to his anger, but he’ll never direct it at you. When he’s upset, he may break a few things just to get the stress out of his system. He never does that in front of you, however. He would never want you to be scared of him, and he keeps those feelings bottled up until you’re gone. Rip to the boys if they decide to tease him when you two are fighting

You can cry, scream, and even throw things at him. It doesn’t matter how much you try to egg him on. He’ll stand there like a statue until you get everything out of your system, and then he’ll just pull you to his chest and ask you if you’re ready to talk. He’d rather you be explosive with your anger than shut him out. He’s not the best with his words, so confronting someone that doesn’t want to talk can be extremely hard for him.

Dwayne will definitely make amends on his own. Even if he doesn’t understand why you’re upset, he’ll still be the one that comes to you first. He doesn’t want you to be angry at him for long, and confronting you is the easiest way to get it over with.

If you block him out, Dwayne won’t know what to do. He’ll try to give you space and wait for you to come to him, but Dwayne wouldn’t be able to stand not talking to you for a few days. Especially since you’re the one that’s mad at him. He’d come to your window and knock on it, and he wouldn’t care if you greeted him with a smile or a glare. He’s just happy to see you. He may even bring you a gift to try to get you to lighten up, and it can anything from a bracelet he made himself or something he stole for you from the boardwalk

Once you let him inside, expect a long conversation about what’s wrong, why, and what he can do to fix it. Even if it’s something he can’t necessarily change (like girls coming up to him at the boardwalk or something), he’ll still promise to do his best to stop it. He’ll come up with a detailed plan as to how you two can go about the problem, and you two may even develop a system where you can tell him when you’re feeling upset about that specific issue

If it’s a reoccurring issue, you two will have to address that perhaps it’s a little out of his control. If so, unfortunately, you’ll just have to get over it. He’ll still try his best to stop it from happening, but there’s so much that he can do

Dwayne will make up through cuddling. He’s just happy to have you back in his arms again, and he may need some reassurance that you still love him just as much as you did before. He takes fights to heart, and that’s why he doesn’t like them or want them to spiral out of control

Marko

Marko is a complete wildcard. Every fight with him is for different, and it’s a coin toss on how he’s going to react. Somethings that you think will piss him off, won’t. Somethings that you never imagined would annoy him, will. It’s a guessing game with him, and your fights are pretty fifty-fifty in terms of who starts them. 

Usually, he’ll retreat into his own head and he’ll try to be calm at first. He’s scarily good at suddenly putting up an unreadable front, but he’s boiling on the inside. You have one chance to put out the fire before it completely takes over, and this has to be done rather quickly. 

You can succeed by immediately apologizing or by explaining what made you so upset. He’s usually quick to accept your apology and give you a kiss, letting everything settle back to normal. If he realizes that he really did do something wrong, then he’ll genuinely apologize and do whatever he needs to for you to forgive him.

If he still thinks that you did something wrong and that he can’t forgive you just yet or refuses to accept responsibility for his actions, it’s uh-oh spaghetti-o’s. But one things for sure. When you two get into a fight-fight, it gets ugly

Sometimes, he’ll annoy you on accident with his lack of care towards something that’s important to you. Sometimes, you’ll say or do something small and he’ll turn it into a much bigger deal.

There can be harsh words, refusals to apologize or consider how you feel, or even him kicking over barrels (lit or unlit). You two can yell and scream all you like, but you’re only really in trouble if he falls silent. That’s when he’s really mad

His eyes will flash yellow and his vampiric features will start to slip out, and if you keep the fight going then he’ll have to walk away to stop himself from doing something he’ll regret later. He would never try to kill you in the fit of a rage, but his vampire instincts are hardest for him to control

If you’re a vampire like he is, all bets are off. He’ll snarl and snap his teeth at you, falling back on his most basic vampire instincts. He’ll get in your face until you submit and agree to end the fight, and then he’ll start to calm down. It may take some physical affection on your part (a hug, kiss, or some petting), but eventually he’ll sigh and the two of you can start moving on to making amends

It’s rare that after a fight-fight he’ll be the one that tries to make amends first. You have to wait until he calms down, usually after a quick meal or some affection, and then you two can talk it out. Once you’re done figuring out the issue, Marko only has one thing on his mind. Make up sex. Much like jealous sex, he lets his vampiric side come out during these times. Expect to be bitten. It’s his way of marking you, of making you his again. To him, it gets rid of any distance that may have appeared between the two of you during your fight and brings you back to being as thick as thieves

Paul

Pauls usually a pretty happy guy. Fights with him are extremely rare, as he’s usually too stoned to really be bothered by anything 90% of the time. But, unlike the rest of the boys, a lot of the fights are his fault in one way or another. It’s usually because he does something wrong or something stupid, and he doesn’t realize how he may have hurt you until he already has

This boy is a bit of an idiot, so when you tell him that he did something he’ll genuinely look at you with confusion. A big reason most of your fights escalate is because Paul has a big fucking mouth. It may have started off as something small, but Paul just had to have the stupidest response and now you’re even more ticked off

Your fights involve tempers flaring and his big mouth making things a million times worse. He doesn’t even mean for half the things he says to come out the way that they do! He just says the first thing that comes to mind, and his brain is currently on autopilot

Expect tears from both parties. The two of you will completely be in eachothers faces, screaming at the top of your lungs, and waterworks are definitely going to start when either one of you gets too into it. Expect his vampire face to be out, but he won’t fall back on his vampire instincts. He’s too busy thinking of arguments to say to really focus on how his instincts are driving him to act

Paul is the only one of the boys who would pause mid-fight to have hate sex with you. He’s so heated and you’re so cute when you’re mad that he’ll grab you and crash his lips onto yours. Fangs and all. If this occurs, the fight is over by the time the two of you have finished.

Otherwise, you two either have to be broken up by the others, or one of you will have to walk away. It’s a toss up on who it is, but either way don’t expect Paul to shut up. He’ll either angrily mutter things the entire time he walks away or he’ll call after you as you take a break from the situation. 

Paul will try to be stubborn at first. He won’t want to talk to you and fix things. He’s perfectly content with acting like the big pouty baby that he is and sitting in a corner in the cave. But if almost an hour has passed and you’re still not coming over to apologize? He’ll march right up to you and start the fight all over again. Just because he wants to talk to you

If you refuse and give him the silent treatment, he’ll scoff and walk away. Only to be back five minutes later. He’ll sit down next to you and just grumble, “I miss you.” with a pout on his face. And then he’ll do his best to get you to talk to him again. He doesn’t care what he has to do. He can’t stand you giving him the silent treatment, and it’s enough to make him ready to tear the hair right out of his head. Paul hates being ignored, and he’ll whine and beg for your attention

He’ll make up by promising whatever you want him to promise. He’ll even hold himself to his word. Then, as soon as you two are back on good terms, he’s back to being the handsy ball of sunshine that he is. He’ll probably want make up sex right afterwards, mainly because he feels all pent up and frustrated with nowhere to put it. He’s as cool as a cucumber after everything, and won’t hold a single grudge. To be honest, he’s already forgotten what you two were even arguing about

[sophi-s]

Cost of Kindness

Chapter IV: Complications

By: sophi-s

Fandom: Darksiders video games

Words: 6,656

Characters: Raphael, Original Female Character (OC), Fury

Warnings: Blood and Injury, Swearing (a lot of it XD)

Summary:

After far too many close calls and an adventure that will last her a lifetime, Nicola and Raphael finally make their way towards Haven. Unfortunately, not everything goes as smoothly as it could.

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Many, many centuries ago taking off to the grand skies has become one of humanity's greatest dreams. They always wished to be able to fly, envying birds their wings and wishing to join them in their aerial conquest. It took many more ages to even try to think of it seriously and even longer for the humans to create the first working airplane and fulfill their dreams as the gravity kept thwarting all their plans. But once this seemingly impossible goal was accomplished, this event has been recorded on the pages of history as one of the most remarkable inventions of the human race.

When she was little, Nicola dreamed of flying on her own as well. She loved watching birds, tracking the planes soaring through the sky, so far away they looked like ants, and thinking about how it would be to have her own wings. Her dreams eventually were abandoned as she grew older, more serious and more reasonable. But honestly, if a week ago someone asked her if she would choose to have wings if she could, Nicola without hesitation would reply "a huge YES". Now however, she realised something she didn't really take into consideration before. While humans wished to rule the skies, they absolutely were not created for this. They have been made flightless, earth-ridden creatures and for a good reason. Her very apparent fear of heights made it awfully clear to her.

These thoughts were all Nicola could hear aside from the rustling of feathers on the wind as she desperately held onto her angel friend, her heart hammering in her chest, eyes wide and stomach making somersaults while everything was spinning around like a carousel. At a certain height the human body just starts to give up and refuse cooperation. For those who are afraid of heights the gap is even smaller and the symptoms more severe. All that was keeping her from fainting or throwing up there and then was the fact that she refused to look down to see how high they actually were but imagining the small buildings below her wasn't making it much better. If she survives this, she will never ask any angel for a fly again and - if it will ever be possible after the apocalypse - stay the heck away from any sort of working plane. Ground was where she belonged. Flying was not her cup of tea and no one will ever convince her otherwise.

Raphael seemed oblivious to the silent prayers spilling past her lips and just kept flying, fully focused on his destination, as she was absolutely certain she's going to die. Her muscles were completely stiff, as though she looked Medusa in the eye. She couldn't even see anything with how her face was buried in the rumpled fabric of Raphael's clothes but she assumed they were getting closer and closer. Focus on anything else than the height. Anything! She kept telling herself when her jaw started to hurt from how she was clenching her teeth. Easier said than done. Nicola knew that Raphael wasn't going to drop her. He promised her and lately she learned to trust him but the pull of gravity beckoning her down into the abyss and to a long plummet ending in a painful impact and certain death… The last time she was this panicked was when the Fallen jumped her out of nowhere. Speaking of which… God, please, let this be a smooth flight. No demons, I'm begging you..

Encounter with stray demons was the last thing they needed now. She didn't doubt Raphael's ability to defend both her and himself but if a flying demon was to attack them from surprise… Not a single part of her already malfunctioning brain could produce a scenario that wouldn't end in either of them dying or at least suffering grave injuries. In short words, any sort of aerial confrontation would mean serious trouble. And trouble wasn't something Nicola missed. Especially after the last night..

Seems like her prayers have been answered. So far nothing noticed an angel and a human passing overhead. And those demons which did apparently decided not to bother them since it didn't seem worth it or had no way of giving them trouble from where they were standing. Nicola stopped counting seconds of their journey long ago and the only indication of the passing time was the wind rushing through her hair slowing down as Raphael started to try and spare as much energy as he could, gliding whenever possible on his wings simply stretched out on both sides and flapping them only to keep the right height, out of range of any demons that could be sulking below when he began to grow weary. His stamina wasn't probably in the best condition after the time he spent in hiding and most likely not moving much.

When she gets back to Haven, Nicola is going to first, eat a solid lunch since her stomach was displeased again - though now she couldn't really feel it twisted in panic like that - second, go the fuck to sleep for the rest of the day. Even though she spent the last night sleeping like a dead woman, she didn't feel that well rested. The amount of stress she had to endure exhausted her and a few hours of rest weren't enough to regenerate her full strength. High on her bucket list was also taking care of Raphael, to at least make him look decent and dress any wounds he carried. Elanya could do that too but Nicola couldn't imagine that Raphael would let a maker he doesn't know do anything to him. She remembered how distrustful he was in the beginning. And after she gets back, no more escapades if not necessary. At least two weeks long break. Ulthane is going to make sure she stays there anyway so she might as well spend her time on sleeping and some light activities. 

Speaking of Ulthane… Nicola wasn't actually sure what she'd say to him once she suddenly showed up in Haven after all that time with a traumatized, crazy angel at her side. To say it will be awkward as heck, would be a severe understatement. It's not even about Raphael. How is she going to explain herself to the overbearing maker who is standing on his head to save the last survivors of her kind while, by nearly killing herself three times already, she acted nothing if not ungrateful? And honestly, she wasn't in shape to wonder about it now because her mind refused to focus on anything else than this one thought of the lethal distance between her and the ground. Damn it all.. Why does she have to be afraid of heights and find out this very unpleasant way? Really, if someone tried to take her from Raphael before he landed or too short time after, they'd probably need a crowbar to pry her off him.

While Nicola thought that the flight itself was awful, the moment her stomach seemed to move up into her gullet as Raphael dipped towards the ground she unwittingly shrilly cried out in fear. And that was a mistake. The angel, startled by the quiet human he'd been holding this entire time suddenly screaming bloody murder for no apparent reason, tried to halt his descent to figure out what's wrong but it was already too late for that. As a result the landing was rather rough. Nicola closed her eyes and so she didn't see how Raphael clumsily hit the ground and barely kept himself propped up not to land on top of her as she slipped out of his grasp and lost her grip on his robes. The expectations of a long fall made her throat tighten and trap her voice inside. All the bigger relief once after barely an inch or two, her back connected with the surface, drawing a soft and strained "oof" from her.

Still scared, disoriented and confused, Nicola opened her eyes to see wide-eyed Raphael hunched over her, hands on either side of her head - with the staff to her left - and gawking at  her with a slight panic on his face. Goodness, he was way too close. Pulling her arms close to her body in a helpless attempt to regain her personal space, she smiled awkwardly.

"H-hi there!"

The moment he saw that nothing was wrong and her face regained some of its color, Raphael breathed with relief and got off her, once again offering his hand to help her up. Once back on her feet, Nicola nearly cried out when she felt the solid ground under the soles of her boots. Blessed earth, she could literally kiss it right now. But the fact that they were not in Haven yet disconcerted her a little. Looking around, she noticed they're in an empty street in the middle of nowhere. Casting a questioning glance at Raphael she didn't even need to ask. The way his wings were slumped against his back, his breath heavier than before said it all. Plain and simple, Raphael was tired. Too tired to keep going. Still, he was eyeing her cautiously.

"Why… why were you screaming?"

Still feeling the nausea and the shaking of her knees, Nicola scratched the back of her neck and turned her eyes away ashamed.

"Ahuh… I'm not-... I'm not used to flying, that dip scared me a little. Sorry about this.."

Raphael said nothing to this, simply nodded, and lowered himself to the dusted road to have a seat by one of the decrepit stores. Nicola decided to let him have his five minutes to rest before going any further. Store. She suddenly realised. And not just any. A grocery store. At the mere thought her stomach rumbled. Not only could she have something for herself but also gather some stuff for others! If anything there is still edible that is. It wouldn't hurt to check. Every bit of food is precious.

"Raphael, can you wait here for a bit? I'll be back in a jiffy."

Out of the corner of her eye she already saw him shift in apprehension and almost begin to stand up. Probably because she ran once already and in his mind could do it again. She proceeded to calm him down immediately by pointing at the building she intended to search.

"I'll just go in there to look for stuff, don't worry. I will come back."

Staring at her for a couple of intense seconds, Raphael eyed her from head to toe twice before his concerned gaze softened a bit.

"Promise me…?"

Nicola smiled reassuringly and nodded. There weren't many options for her if she did want to run off. Besides, she wasn't quite sure where she was just yet. Her orientation in terrain was… less than decent as of late.

"I promise."

She offered and once Raphael sat somewhat comfortably back down, she took her backpack and shotgun - just in case - and stepped in through a broken window. The inside of the store was in utter disarray and even that was putting it lightly. Most of the shelves were toppled over, some even in pieces. Glinting shards of glass littered the floor, crunching under Nicola's feet every time she made a step. Unsurprisingly, nothing was working. No lights, no freezers, no ventilation. No time to waste. Nicola began her search immediately.

Approaching the fruit stand greeted her with bitter disappointment. Apples, oranges, pears and many other fruits were already rotten and sometimes even coated in white specks of mould. Definitely not good. With vegetables it was exactly the same. The only carrot that looked acceptable at first, turned out to have been completely wilted. Tossing it aside, Nicola moved on. She didn't even bother looking for meat. The stench hit her the moment she came inside and were it not for the smell of decomposing corpses that drifted around the sewers when she was there, she probably would've thrown up where she stood. Instead, she just covered her mouth and nose with her bandana.

Any dairy products were off the table too. Without working freezers every single one of them has surely gone sour by now. A diarrhea was not something she wanted to have in Haven and most likely neither did the makers. Nicola didn't dare to so much as touch any eggs that still were somehow intact. Bad idea. A smelly one as well. There's no way some of them haven't gone bad yet. The risk wasn’t worth it. Passing by one of the mostly whole shelves, she absent mindedly grabbed a bag of dry cat food and stuffed it into her backpack. It was highly probable that most of the survivors would be feeding the kitten with any leftovers but.. just to make sure the poor thing doesn't starve to death.

Most of the jars have broken during initial earthquakes but two small jars of pickles seemed to be mostly alright. Without giving it much thought, she placed them in her backpack. Four bags of freeze-dried fruits quickly found their way into her pockets once she got a hold of them. Under a broken shelf, Nicola spotted an edge of some packet. Assuming it was just crackers or something, she reached into the rubble for it but once she pulled it out… she immediately regretted her decision. It was, in fact, not a bag of crackers. It was a whole, torn bag of soured cabbage coated in some strange growth - probably mould - she didn't get a chance to really look at because her attention was caught by something inside the bag. Probably squeezed in through the tear and got stuck, a small, bloated body of a gigantic, hellish critter. Instinctively, Nicola yelped quietly and without giving it much thought she lobbed the thing across the whole store before wiping her hand on the nearest piece of rag that wasn't her clothes. She didn't even get any of the spilling juices on her but… gross. Just gross. Ew ew ew! Ignoring the wet splat the bag made when it hit the floor wasn't an easy task. Still shaking off the disgust, she continued her search, noting to herself never to touch something she isn't sure what it is.

From there it thankfully was starting to go much smoother. Two packets of crispbread, some dark chocolate and a box of tea were found and collected. Nicola nearly cheered out loud when she spotted a few Snickers on a shelf. One she immediately opened and eagerly ate while the rest landed safely in her backpack. It might be mostly sugar with a bit of peanuts but it was a good snack that could deceive the brain for quite some time. To be frank, Nicola lived half of the high school on those whenever her lessons lasted too long for her breakfast to keep her sated. Besides, she couldn't imagine others would mind her bringing a bunch. Especially Marie. Jacob will most likely strangle Nicola if his daughter eats too much sweets but in the end it'll be worth it. Anything would be worth putting a smile on that sad little face.

Somewhere on the floor, Nicola even found a box of vitamins which luckily was not out of date yet. With a deficit of fruits and vegetables, those could be lifesavers. Especially for Leslie. She needs the most of it. Unfortunately, the space in her backpack was very much limited and soon she couldn't put anything more in there. Rearranging the contents of it, she put in one bottle of water, careful not to crush the crispbread and chocolate. At least she found something. Her escapade wasn't all for nothing when it comes to supplies. But even without those, she wouldn't say she regrets it. Against all the odds, she lived. And most importantly, she gained an otherworldly friend. And in times like these, a friend is something to be treasured.

Slinging her now much heavier backpack on her shoulders, she picked up her gun and headed towards the broken window she used as an entrance before. Peeking out from the store, she saw Raphael where she'd left him and a very much awake cat playfully attacking the longest quill of his left wing. His head perked up when she dropped onto the sidewalk beneath the window and she could've sworn she'd seen the corner of his mouth twitch upwards for a second there. Smiling, she unfolded her hands and shrugged.

"See? I keep my promises."

The angel hummed quietly before leaning his head against the wall behind him and closing his eyes. Nicola was about to ask if he's good to go but let the thought perish when she noticed his eyebrows furrow and his chapped lips twist into a slight grimace. Soon after, his right hand wandered up to his chest as he took a couple of quick and shallow breaths through his clenched teeth. If Nicola didn't know any better, she'd have said Raphael was having a heart attack. Can an angel even have an infarct? She honestly had no idea. In fact, she didn't even know how old he is. She couldn't tell. All the angels she'd met so far had white hair so that's not a hint to go by and his face didn't necessarily look old or young. He seemed as ageless as the time itself. Still, she didn't want to take any chances.

"Raphael? What's wrong?!"

She asked as she crouched beside him and laid a hand on his shoulder to steady him if needed. Raphael simply slowly shook his head and turned to look at her tiredly. And in his blank eyes she saw the already familiar pain and a spark of a silent plea.

"Just a little longer.. Let me rest a while…"

It took everything Nicola had in her to stop the sigh of relief. It didn't sit right with her that Raphael was still suffering and she could do absolutely nothing about it but hearing he's mostly fine, with only the usual ailing him, made her feel a tad easier. When his breathing grew slower and calmer, she even let herself slip down to the floor beside him.

"Sure. We have time, I guess.."

It was still relatively early, barely an hour or two after noon and Nicola wasn't that eager to return into the sky so soon. Only thinking about it made her feel a little sick. Hopefully, it wasn't too far to Haven from here. Even though Nicola really wanted to finally get home, she decided to be patient with her companion. He was wounded and most likely ill but he still tried his best to help her, even though he hadn't known her that long. He deserves a moment. Nicola too needed to sit down for a second as her thigh was still a bloody nuisance. Just a few more minutes. It wouldn't do harm to have a little break now, would it?

Yes. Yes it would. Nicola suddenly realised when she saw the kitten arc its back and puff its tail out. It hisses loudly before scurrying away into the store she just left and soon enough Nicola realised why once she looked into an alley ahead of her. The sight of a massive, winged shape made it painfully obvious. Her heart nearly ceased and Raphael beside her tensed at the sight of an enormous demon with curved horns and teeth, each the size of her palm, resembling a set of barbed knives made specifically to cut meat. The edges of long healed wounds that left behind terrible scars on her abdomen began to itch as she gawked at the familiar monster that nearly took her life. Flapping of gigantic wings that covered the sky with its expanse… Razor sharp claws curling around her body… the same talons tearing into her flesh as Ulthane attempted to free her from its grasp. And this shriek… oh God, this shriek…

Despite the apparent pain and exhaustion, Raphael slowly - not to agitate the demon - got up to his feet and raised his wings threateningly as he stepped in front of aghast Nicola. The fact that due to its bulkiness this thing seems almost twice as large as he is doesn't make an impression on him. Or maybe it does but he doesn't show it. The Fallen stared at Raphael with its small red eyes as a pair of Phantom Guards rounded a corner and joined the beast. Each carried a jagged blade that could easily tear through angelic armor. Nicola had seen it happen. Following them was another bloody Goreclaw. But these three she barely even noticed. Her wide eyes were focused on the larger demon. She felt her muscles refuse cooperation and seize. She couldn't move, couldn't speak. Her mind repeatedly screamed No nono no NO! Not like this!!

With excited roars, the lesser demons charged towards the angel standing between them and the weak, pathetic and helpless human as the Fallen spread its wings and took off into the air. Even as Nicola kept stone still, Raphael remained sharp and ready to act as always. One spell spilled past his lips and the flying demon instantly went rigid before plummeting back onto the ground and crashing into a broken car, setting its annoying alarm off. It didn't discourage the other three but it let Nicola find will to move and clutch her gun tighter. Ever since she'd met Raphael, he'd been doing nothing but getting her arse out of trouble. Taking a shaky breath she decided to start repaying favors.

Though, once again she didn't really have a chance to do anything as she was dumbstruck by the following scene playing out before her. As the hellish monsters charged, Raphael took his staff in both hands and held it before himself, closing his eyes and muttering an incantation in his melodious language. The moment the first demon stepped a tad too close, Raphael's eyes snapped open, burning like two white suns and a sleek ethereal blade materialized from the tip of what Nicola previously thought just an ornament or a walking cane. It glowed like the purest light ever to exist. Another assumption Nicola made about Raphael turned out to have been false. The last thing she can say about him is unarmed. He carried no blade, no gun or anything but who needs a weapon as lame as those when in addition to powerful sorcery you have a freaking lightsaber?

Everything lasted less than a second as the angel led a wide, sweeping slash of his spectral sword… spear thing… and promptly relieved the Phantom Guard of its horned head, before stopping the pouncing Goreclaw with a flick of his free hand, suspending it in the air growling and hissing. The other Phantom Guard had no chance to either attack the vulnerable angel or retreat, when Raphael was busy cutting down the quadrupedal demon, as Nicola came back to her senses and, instead of running like she always has, jumped forward and fired her shotgun. The resounding bang travelled through the entire city, bouncing off the walls and drifting far into the desolate town but it had the effect Nicola counted on.

The Phantom Guard staggered backwards with a chest full of buckshot, wheezed a couple times and tripped over onto its back never to get up again. With adrenaline still pumping through her veins, Nicola stared at the either dead or dying demon in wonderment, her brain trying to process what just happened, before releasing a breathless laugh of triumph. She killed one. She actually killed one! Raphael too seemed rather surprised but not unpleasantly so as he let the blade fade away.

"I got it! Did you see that?!"

"That indeed, I have.."

He said as he eyed her carefully, probably just to check if she's fine. Aside from a little fresh blood on his boots and hands, Raphael didn't seem to have gotten hurt in any way. Well… more than he'd already been at least. Nicola beamed up at him nearly bursting with pride at her actual first kill on a demon larger than her shin. And he seemed happy for her, if the soft smile he regarded her with could be an indication. But this victory didn't last long. Her own smile faded when she saw the Fallen stiffly getting up from where it slammed onto the ground, pure rage on its monstrous face. Her pulse began to race again but this time she refused to let the panic get a hold of her just yet.

"Watch out!!"

She cried too late, just a sliver of a second too late. Raphael whipped around to face the attacker and all he managed to do was raise his hand before the charging demon swung its head to the left. And with the force of a truck driving at the speed of fifty miles per hour, slammed it into the angel, making a formula of a spell die on his lips as he was sent flying through the air and crashing against a nearby building. The force of the impact caved in the wall and the kind, mad angel disappeared in a cloud of dust. All that was left were a couple of white feathers slowly falling to the ground.

"NO!"

Nicola didn't pay any mind to how her voice broke and squeaked pitifully when her heart leaped up into her throat. She could only stare at the place where Raphael vanished with a rumbling crash as the enraged demon growled in the same direction. Not a single part of her being agreed with what she'd just witnessed. A second before he was standing right there, like nothing was about to happen, distracted by her gushing over her first serious kill. Nothing should have happened, why did the demon unravel Raphael's magic just like that? Even a Shadowcaster didn't manage to do that! Why would this one? And why… Tears welled up in her eyes as her lower lip trembled… why did it have to… end the way it did…?

To make matters worse, the Fallen was still before her, still furious and thirsting for blood. Not wasting more time, Nicola pulled out a handful of new bullets and tried to reload her weapon but it proved almost impossible with how much her hands were shaking. Thank Christ, the demon was taking its sweet time as it faced her and began to lumber towards her on all fours, huffing out breaths stinking of rotting meat. Faster, faster, damn it! Nicola cursed inwardly when she dropped a couple of shells before she finally managed to place the ammunition where it should be. But when she looked up, the Fallen was on top of her already. Parting its jaws wide, ready to swallow her whole.

The scream of anguish that felt so tempting in the back of her throat never came to be. In a second, Nicola thought about all the horrors she'd lived through. All demons she'd met, all shambling corpses of former humans brought back by vile sorcery. All friends she'd made and lost.. Raphael, do just one thing for me. She gritted her teeth as her knuckles turned white from how she was gripping her weapon. Despair started to turn into rage. Burning bright and white hot inside of her, the flame Raphael had helped her see. Please, be alive when I come for you… The demon lunged forward to sever the string of her measly life by biting her in half. But Nicola wasn't going to let it get her so easily. Her fear was forgotten as she stuck the barrel of her shotgun into the monster's opened maw. She didn't want to die. Not now, not like this. For once she wanted to have a say over her own fate. Over the date of her demise. She is still young, she had a whole life ahead of her. And all those demonic dickheads with the Destroyer leading the charge decided to ruin everything and not only for her, but for every human who lives still and who has perished. And those who are yet to be born. She refused. She will not die. Not here. Not killed by that thing.

"FUCKOFF!!!"

And she fired. Partially, the sound was muffled by the demon's mouth snapping shut just barely missing Nicola's arms as she let go of her gun. The Fallen recoiled and began to shriek in pain, spitting out its own blood onto the concrete at its feet. Nicola didn't have delusions she could kill it but it gave her the precious seconds she needed. She ran for the closest hiding place available, which was the store she just left. Nicola leaped in through the broken window and quickly made it to the opposite wall to put as much distance between herself and the writhing monstrosity as possible. And it was a good choice.  A loud roar from the street made her heart fall into her heels as the injured demon finally gathered its bearings.

Nicola looked at the Fallen that was coming her way with murder in its eyes. The unexpected bout of courage has long faded and the petrifying fear once again had Nicola in its chilling grasp. Even with the mouthful of bullets, the Fallen did not intend to give up on its prey. And here she hoped it would piss off if she fed it with lead… Snarling and panting, the demon approached the broken window with its own blood pouring from between its sharp fangs. It only added to the menacing image of the beast that had Nicola trembling and frozen.

Think, Nicola, THINK! What can she do against an opponent far bigger, stronger and more dangerous than a single human without a weapon? The Fallen was trying to fit through the window, reaching out with its clawed paw to try and get her. Nicola looks around in panic, looking for anything that could save her. In a grocery store. Good luck. Eventually, she says "fuck it" and grabs a most likely rancid egg. The laughably small projectile splatters over the face of the demon with a squelch and even from far away Nicola is sure this egg was definitely rotten. Even the Fallen stops for a second to shake the disgusting goop off of its head but before it's done, another egg flies through the air and cracks on its head, just as stinky as the previous one.

"How'd ya, like that, asshole?! Wanna have some more?!"

Nicola yells at the demon, holding yet another egg, fully prepared to just chuck it at the monster. Unfortunately, all she managed to do was piss it off even further as its efforts in reaching her doubled. Pieces of plaster and bricks were coming loose as the demon tried to wriggle into the shop to finally kill that annoying pest lobbing small, smelly things at it. As a result, an egg once again hit the demon while Nicola kept shouting out profanities that probably made her poor mother toss and turn in her grave. She's not going down without a fight, even if the said fight is done by throwing eggs and all the gross shit she found on the floor. But she knew she isn’t getting out of this one.

And so, this is it. Nicola couldn't believe she would die by the claws of the same creature that nearly killed her once before. Was Ulthane rescuing her only delaying the inevitable? What a sick joke… Why does fate insist on being cruel? There was so much she wanted to say, so many apologies she had to give… so little time… There was nothing she could do. At least… she will see Nicholas again.. her parents and every friend she'd lost in this cursed apocalypse. A miracle would've been nice. A tiny one. Just this once. Please?

And boy, did she get her wish. A sudden force violently tearing the Fallen out of the shop nearly startled her out of her dirty and tattered jeans. Hardly believing her eyes, she watched as her would-be killer screeched in rage and surprise when it was wrenched free from the ruined window and was gone from her vision. A sudden tremor shook the whole building, sending small bits of debris raining down on her head as a mighty roar reverberated through her very bones. But it wasn't the Fallen. It was something meaner. Something… Nicola swallowed thickly at the thought… bigger. Or at least as large as this fucker. Then came clacking of metal, ungodly screeching of the demon. A second later Nicola saw as it was flung through the air like a sack of potatoes and crashed against a block of flats. Instant karma. She thinks with bitter satisfaction when she remembers what that faggot did to Raphael. I need to somehow get to him. Honestly though, she doesn't really want to know what managed to just YEET a Fallen like a skipping rock.

Unfortunately, she finds out and finds out quite soon. From her hideout, she sees an enormous creature, nearly as big as the demon that threatened her, charging towards the stunned monster still bleeding from its mouth. If Nicola had been terrified of the Fallen, then she was on the verge of having a straight out SCA after seeing this chunk of a behemoth. Whatever this thing was, it was the size of an average tree. Its armored hide was burning with red and white flames which were enveloping twin jagged, metal whips it held in its hands. Vestigial wings were trembling with wrath as it turned its radiant white eyes at the battered demon. Between a pair of sweeping horns that crowned its head was a flickering blaze that flared with each step the monstrosity took towards its quarry. Right.. What's the best way to get rid of a monster? Sic a stronger monster on it. The Fallen shrugged off and growled at its new assailant, challenging it to a fight.

While the two beasts were circling one another, battling she couldn't even guess what for, Nicola braced for what was to come. This is a horrible idea. Breath in and breath out. In and out. And when the Fallen pounced at its attacker, she bolted. Not stopping, she ran. Through the street the demons were fighting on, past them - so close she could feel the heat radiating off of the newcomer - and into the building Raphael disappeared in. Nicola hoped she was ready for what she was about to find. She really did. Jumping in through the punched in wall however, she soon found out she was, in fact, not ready. The moment she entered, she immediately caught the sight that made something squeeze inside of her.

On a pile of rubble from the destroyed wall was Raphael coated in dust. Still. Not moving, his mesmerising white eyes shut. Oh fuck, oh fuck, oh God, oh NO! Not thinking, all fear and uncertainty she ever felt in his presence was long cast away, Nicola rushed over to him pleading, begging everything that would listen for him to be alive. Don't leave me here like this… Dropping at his side into the rubble, Nicola lays her ear on the top of his chest and doesn't let herself relax until she hears a heartbeat and a shallow breath within. Words cannot describe how much she deflated once she did. He's still alive.. but he doesn’t look good.

"Raphael! Please say something! Can you hear me?!"

Thankfully, angel's eyes lolled open as she spoke to him, hinting that he indeed can hear her. Trying his best to keep his unfocused gaze on her face, Raphael furrowed his eyebrows and lifted his upper lip in a pained sneer as his hand wandered up to clutch at his side where the demon's heat struck him.

"Nnn… Nnii… co…"

He weakly attempted to speak but without much success. No joke, he must've hit his head really hard and she dreaded to think about the state of his ribcage.. But hey! At least he hears and understands what Nicola is saying. And it's a good sign.. right…? Wasting no more time, Nicola helped him sit up, keeping her hand on his forehead to steady him as his own palm rested over hers. Even squinting in pain, Raphael kept looking at her, as though she was the only point of focus he could think of.

"Hang in there, okay?! Please, Phel.. We'll be fine…"

Liar. Something snaps at her. They're pretty much defenseless and vulnerable with a very livid demon still threatening them. One or the other will come out victorious. And to the victor go the spoils… Raphael tried to say something but still couldn't formulate words properly due to the splitting headache pulsing through his entire skull. Though even through ringing in his head and pain in his chest that somehow rivaled the one he constantly felt, he found something in this human's words that baffled him. In her panic, Nicola doesn't catch a puzzled look he sends her way.

Phel?

A choked up cry of a dying demon made them both jump a little and look out through the hole Raphael made when the demon gored him. Just in time to see the flaming beast standing on top of the Fallen and strangling it with its whips. Then, the creature of… quite blatantly feminine curves gave one sharp tug and the demon's head was brutally severed from the rest of its body. And everything fell silent.

Instinctively, Nicola halted her breath and ceased any movement, watching the winner (Nicola felt fully comfortable with calling it per "she" now) shoot a glance towards her and Raphael who by this point tiredly laid his head on her shoulder, heaving in attempts to draw a proper breath. The creature approached slowly, keeping Nicola frozen in place and desperately holding onto her injured friend. When the demon was at the wall, only her massive legs were visible. Seconds ticked by as a set of claws rested above the opening to the house, and a monstrous head loomed through the hole.

That would be more than enough to make Nicola pass right the Hell out but.. Something about this creature intrigued her. It didn't have a snarling, toothy maw but an almost featureless face with the curve of a nose and a pair of bright and ferocious, intelligent eyes. It stared at her with more understanding than any demon Nicola had ever seen. Whatever it was, it didn't seem aggressive for some weird reason. At least not yet.. Then, unexpectedly, the creature was enveloped in red flames as its humongous form began to shrink and reshape into something much smaller but still a good two heads taller than an average human.

From the hot light emerged a very humanlike woman in intricate metal armor. Black tattoos marked her stern face around her luminous, white eyes and on her forehead, right below the line of incredibly dense magenta colored hair which floated freely around her head, defying gravity like it's the most natural thing in the world. Whoever it was, even with an intimidating aura of strength and resolve, her close resemblance to a human calmed Nicola somewhat. Plus, she had to admit that this woman had the looks. Men would probably be killing one another for her. Honestly, Nicola felt kind of jealous.. But considering she was still pretty much helpless with a half-conscious angel leaned against her, it didn't put her fully at ease. At least until the stranger spoke in plain English. Then Nicola finally released the breath she was holding. Crossing her arms, the tall lady sneered slightly at the human and angel before her.

"Well, would you look at that. Guess it's your lucky day today."

--------------------------------------------------

It's finally done, my goodness! This one was hard to get right but I made it. Don’t ask me how i managed to finish it with two pictures, I have no clue :I

Fury makes an appearance! Badass as always. :D

Also, can I get an F for Raphael's poor ribs?

[creativenicocorner]

Slides a ⭐ for a star person :p

Holy shit it took over a year and I barely remember which fanfic ask this is about...I think it's like a director's cut one? REGARDLESS! I do remember the star was to like talk about whatever - and while looking for a WIP I came across an attempt to answer this WITHIN a wip? Past Nico what were you thinking?!

I do know this was written sometime before Ch15 of Terpsichore came out, because there were a few references? But I rephrased the wording a bit.

Forgive me for using this as an excuse to just babble on about how I choose the music titles for chapter sections in Terpsichore, but also, I'm not entirely sorry haha Without further Ado! Here’s hoping this rambling makes sense haha!!

⭐ AN ANSWER!（♥￫ｏ￩♥）

So it’s taken me a long time to figure out how I wanted to answer this. For a while I was going to ramble about M*A*S*H how it was a rather formative show for me growing up, especially in its anti-war message as well as how it feels like a comedy played in a minor key. There was even going to be a link to a video essay on the show, and then I was going to hint at a want to write a series following the changelings in a pre-show context in the sort of vibe M*A*S*H gave.

But it got lost, and weighty…and…idk, I can’t seem to stick to a lot of things these days? I don’t know.

But there’s always been in me the want to attempt to explain why I choose the music pieces I choose to title the sections in each chapter. Cause despite the little message at the bottom of the first chapter and the last chapter talking about motifs leitmotifs…writing prose is nothing like composing music.

And not only that I’m sure less than half of the people reading the fic will listen along with the playlist. Which is 100000% fine! I anticipate it even!

Because at best, those sectional pieces serve less as soundtrack more like a silent movie’s musical medley.

Because it’s the written word, and I’m not Andrew Hussie ldgj though the day I find out how to put a little ‘play button’ to listen to music during a fic, I might do that. But at this point in time Hell No haha.

Despite this, there is a process behind my music selections.

There is a difference between what I consider ‘corpse de ballet’/ ‘ensemble’ sections, and ‘leads’ / ‘duet’ sections.

Or what my poor readers go through as ‘a shit ton of prospective shifts’ and two prospectives at best, at the same time. I don’t know why I’m such a fan of bouncing between perspectives so much that you probably feel seasick. I always consider it a miracle anyone understands what the heck is going on dfjglk The answer is probably because I like third person omniscient writing, and am a sucker for situational/character irony. But I’m also a grammar school drop out haha and don’t actually know the rules of writing by heart? I’m just a fool with a bunch of vibes and a dictionary doing their best lol.

[ stressed coffee sip ] Fake it til you make it baby

But yeah! Enough borderline weird self deprecating! Let’s talk music!!

So! Usually when writing a section I try and think about who are the central characters in the section, and or what is the theme/emotion I’m trying to call on. Is there a motif, or a reference I can play on musically? An idea or concept I can echo or even enhance? Will it be a specific genera of music tied to a character because that character embodies and or is known for a specific genera (example: Nomura and Opera- more on that at during ACTII )

Once I answer those questions, I’m able to narrow down my music choices. Which, again, acts more like a book of suggested musical medley orchestras and musicians would purchase during the silent movie era as like a cheat sheet of what they could play during a specific scene.

So…for instance, for a character like Barbara Lake I wouldn’t use video game music -or maybe I could…but it would only be in terms of perhaps referencing her son.- who I would have a higher chance at choosing to select a video game music piece for (hang on to your butts ACT II Zelda soundtrack).

In the fic I’ve built the idea that in order to explain Barbara’s ability to paint, that she not only took classes but was part of the production team in putting on a play, mainly in set design painting props. Which opens me to a world of musical options when it comes to Barbara’s character. Especially when certain musicals hold songs that can be really fitting to her character later on. An example of this can be seen in ch3 “Aquarius”, and ch14 “Julia”.

Ch3 is Barbara’s big planned picnic date. The first date she and Walter go on after she ingested the binding spell. The two of them coming together, but also the magic of which awakening something magical inside.

And Ch14 in which the binding spell is broken, but also whatever was holding Barbara’s potential to reaching towards that magical something inside her is also broken. And in a sort of my own attempt at written diegesis between the narrative and the song selections in the sections, the lyrics to Aquarius is written out as Barbara depends into the water. In which it is no longer the dawning of Aquarius, Aquarius is starting to take center stage. Their cue is played.

That would be my example on a very character driven musical choice.

Not only that, but it is at Ch3 where Walter is influenced more and more to Barbara’s appreciation to musicals, so much so that it begins to influence his own array of music pieces. His dreams no longer dialogue from movies he fell asleep to, but sometimes full on reproductions of staged musicals and plays. An example of this can be seen in Ch11 On the Right Track from Pippin the Musical - which oof I could go into a full dissertation on in regards to changelings/Pippin and The Pale Lady/Leading Player.

Not only that, but due to influence from Barbara’s love we get the moment of Walter’s ‘I want’ section piece in the form of Ch9 “Corner of the Sky” (aka Pippin’s I want song as well). The moment before this happened there was the interaction with Angor AND Otto AND the repercussions of Angor attacking the school. It is clear to these characters that Strickler is not giving his all in killing Jim, and perhaps never tried to give his all. Something that Otto proclaims as Strickler making excuses, and Strickler insists is tact.

Then there is the situational character driven choice.

I’m going to continue to use Barbara as an example here, and say that THIS can be seen in Ch2 “No. 9 – Finale Andante” and ch12 “Le Lac Des Cygnes Introduction: Moderato Assai”

Both of these music pieces come from Swan Lake. The reasoning behind the choice is probably asinine in thought process (Barbara Lake, Swan Lake), but also thought out in the sense of the following:

In Season3 of Trollhunters Morgana, in order to attempt to reacquire her shadow staff from Strickler (“The Exorcism of Clair Nuñez), transforms herself to take Barbara Lake’s physical form.

IN THE BALLET SWAN LAKE The wizard Von Rothbart, in order to obtain what they want, transforms (granted someone else) Odile to look like the hero Odette in order to trick the prince into proclaiming this imposter Odile as their one true love. In which Odile is the mirror to Odette, and while looking similar (in fact typically the ballerina who performs as Oddette would also perform as Odile) are opposites in spirit.

And, at least in Terpsichore, what near primordial eldritch force can rival that of the Eldritch Queen that we know from cannon will inevitably impersonate Barbara Lake?

But wait, there’s more.

In chapter 2 the piece used in section 2 is the end of ACTI from Swan Lake. The music hints not only the arrival of Odette, but also her inevitable tragedy. What is written in this section, briefly at that cause we watched how the scene plays out in the show, you don’t need me writing that back at you, but I digress- What is WRITTEN in this section is Barbara sipping the enchanted tea that binds herself to Waltolomew Strickler. Something that you, the viewer and fan will know ends in tragedy, as do I the writer and also fan knows will end in tragedy. The only people out of the loop here are the poor poor characters.

And then the revolving door of bad situations that is ch12 happens, and we return to Swan Lake with “Le Lac Des Cygnes Introduction” In which Barbara is introduced to Jim Lake’s Trollhunting world, finally. But wait! There’s EVEN more.

Because not only is Barbara introduced to Jim’s Trollhunting world, Barbara begins to allow herself an introduction to that weird magical more that’s inside her via dream. And YOU/WE the reader/writer/audience, are introduced to the strange figure Giselle is talking to on the beach of Lake Superior…who…well, you’ve probably already have an idea as to who that figure is ;)c

There are also moments when I just select a song piece because I think it fits Thematially well - ch11’s “Powerhouse” section. Aka the music that plays in Looney Tunes whenever an assembly line montage occurs - to which in that section Jim Draal and Walter are putting together the booby-traps to thwart Angor Rot (as well as try to reassemble some sort of emotional connection between them). Or it could be a reference to a meme I really enjoyed, example Ch12’s “Roundabout” aka the music piece known vernacularly as “The Jojo Meme” but also like…meme aside it’s really good and fits and just lkfgjkgsdj I have a lot of feels about Roundabout and I won’t apologize for it haha

And yet, something I pride myself in, is that you don’t need to know all of this to enjoy the story. It isn’t necessary to listen to the Swan Lake pieces or even the Musicals, or even the Jojo Meme. Because, if I did my job right, those echoes ought to be in the writing. The pieces to the section have always been optional. Just little markings in a booklet to be given to you the reader/composer as a suggestion and you can choose to play those pieces along to the silent film, or boot up a ragtime. And that’s the power you have. And that’s equally as wonderful!

[collecting-stories]

Versus - pt. 2

A/N: I know a lot of you wanted to see JJ end up with the reader so here’s that ending for all of you! There’s a good deal of angst in this one on John B’s part. 

Versus Masterlist | Outer Banks Masterlist

///

“Hey, you wanna take a walk?” JJ asked, leaning against the railing on the porch steps. You’d been sitting there with John B, watching Pope try to get the grill started to cook the hot dogs and hamburgers you and Kiara had bought for the small Memorial Day gathering.  

“Oh, uh,” you looked up at JJ in confusion. You’d been in the middle of a conversation with John B when JJ had rolled out of the hammock and come over to you.  

“Okay.” John B cut in, looking over at his friend.  

JJ’s eyes narrowed as he stared at John B, what felt like a full, awkward, minute of tension passed between them before finally JJ spoke. “I didn’t ask you.”  

“I didn’t realise it was so exclusive.” John B replied, “so just I’m not invited or Kie and Pope too?”  

“What’s going on?” Kiara asked, looking over at the three of you.  

The boys were still locked in a death stare, neither blinking. You stood up, grabbing JJ’s arm, “nothing, JJ and I are gonna go for a walk. I’ll be back John B.”

You pushed JJ in front of you, walking down the dirt driveway that lead away from the Chateau and into the woods until it eventually got to the road. You weren’t sure if you wanted to mention their weird behaviour as of late. The was the first time in two weeks that the whole group had gotten together and more than once during those two weeks either John B or JJ had shown up to hang out, just one on one. Neither of them would cop to anything but you had a feeling you knew what was going on.  

Even Pope had picked up on it.  

They both liked you. It was weirdly flattering and made your head spin a little to think about but it was, according to both Kiara and Pope, the only explanation. They both liked you and you were eventually going to have to choose.  

-

“What about ‘no pogue on pogue macking’?” You asked, sitting on your board with Kiara. The two of you had gone out alone to surf and talk, away from the guys and their weird behaviour lately.

“I mean, yeah, I guess you could choose no one.” Kiara shrugged, “but honestly, forget the friend group and shit, if you had to choose, who would it be? First person that pops into your head?”  

You opened your mouth to answer and she held up her hand. “Don’t tell me. Just...you thought of someone?”

“Before you even finished your sentence.” You replied.  

“Yeah, so the let’s all be friends isn’t gonna work cause you’re gonna have those feelings. As much as I hate to say it, we aren’t kids anymore, it was only a matter of time before one of them liked you. I mean we all hang but not like you three.”  

“That’s crap though, I don’t wanna ruin a friendship over stupid feelings.”  

“They aren’t stupid. And if they’re your friends than they’ll understand and move on.” Kiara replied, “but I don’t think you should drag it out.”

-

“Nice day,” JJ mentioned, toking on his juul as he walked, as if he hadn’t been seconds away from throat-punching John B.  

“JJ, I know I’m gonna regret asking this but, what is going on?” You asked.  

“We’re taking a walk.” He shrugged.  

You grabbed his arm, stopping him from going any further than the mailbox at the side of the road. He stopped and turned back to you, a somewhat annoyed expression on his face. If anything you should’ve been the one who was annoyed, not him. “I’m not joking, what’s with you and JB?”  

“How should I know, kid’s weird.”  

“JJ!”  

“Alright, fine,” he snapped, running a hand through his hair. “I like you, alright? Screw the rules I really like you and I know John B does to.”

“Seems like that’s why the rules exist.”  

“It’s not funny okay.” He stressed. “I know John B is...I know he’s not such a fuck up alright but-“  

You cut JJ off, grabbing his shoulders and kissing him. His eyes went wide and his whole body froze at the feeling of your lips on his. He’d asked you to go on a walk so he didn’t have to get rejected in front of his friends. He’d even brought his backpack so he could leave after you told him how you liked John B more than him.  

You pulled away when he didn’t move, surprised. “So...kinda thought you’d, ya know...kiss me back.”  

“Shit, sorry. I just, me? Seriously?”  

“Kiara asked me who I would choose if I had to, who was the first name that popped into my head and...it was you. John B’s my friend and I love him but he’s not you.” You confessed. “I like you J, I wanna go on dates with you and shit. And kiss you, hopefully have you kiss me back-“

JJ cut you off this time, finally snapping into action. He placed his hands on either side of your face and leaned in, kissing you. You gripped the sides of his Coors Light cut-off, trying to get as close to him as possible. All you could think about in that moment was him. The way he tasted, the way he smelled, the way his thumbs pressed into you jaw, working it open so he could deepen the kiss.  

A branch snapped in the distance and you broke apart, turning to find John B standing there. His fists were clenched at his sides and his face was red.  

“John B-“ you started to speak but he shook his head.  

“Food’s ready.” He said, turning away and walking back down the drive toward his house.  

You looked at JJ who only nodded, a silent agreement that you should talk to him. “John B, wait,” you called, running to catch up. JJ hung back, ready to bolt if he needed to but unsure of his friend’s temper and not wanting to leave you alone. He knew John B would never hurt anyone but his first instinct always said otherwise so he followed behind you, cautious. 

“Please stop walking!”

“I don’t want to talk to you.” John B shouted, “in fact, it’d be great if you and JJ could just fuck off altogether.”

“John B!”

“How long have you guys been sneaking around like this? Since he slept at your house? Since you went to Chapel Hill with him?”  John B shouted, words directed at you but eyes on JJ. He was breathing heavy and his eyes were glossing over. JJ looked away.

“It literally just happened.” You sighed.

“It’s my fault man, I asked her to choose.” JJ piped up. You looked back at him, biting your lip to stop from crying at the tension of the situation. 

“And you chose him.” John B said, drawing your attention back to him. 

“I’m sorry that I hurt you but I’m not sorry for my feelings John B. You’re my best friend but I love JJ, I can’t change that. It’s just, the way it is.”

“Fuck you.”

“John B!”

“No, fuck you. Fuck both of you.” John B walked back to you, getting right in your face. JJ pushed him away, getting between the two of you. It could’ve been a wall there, John B avoided any eye contact with his best friend, instead continuing his tirade on you. “He knew I liked you, I told him I liked you and he said ‘go for it man’.” He looked at JJ, sucking in a ragged breath, “Go for it...and then you fucking stab me in the back.”  

“JB, I didn’t-” JJ tried to explain. 

“It wouldn’t have changed anything. Even if JJ didn’t like me-“ You cut in.

“He just doesn’t like losing.”

“I’m not a prize John B!” You snapped, “I’m sorry that I don’t like you like that but it’s not JJ’s fault. He didn’t ‘win’ me. I chose him!”

John B looked away, rubbing his handkerchief wrapped wrist across his eyes to stop himself from crying. He didn’t need you to see him like that. JJ reached out, uncertain, and rested a hand on John B’s shoulder. To upset to care, he let JJ hug him. 

“Do you want us to leave?” You asked. 

“No,” John B pulled away, trying to collect himself, “no, you’re my best friend. So’s JJ, I want it be the three of us, like it used to be.”

“It will, I promise.” You pulled him into a hug, wrapping your arms around his shoulders. JJ placed his hand on John B’s back, rubbing in small circles to try and calm him down. 

You smiled at JJ and mouthed, “we’ll be fine”.

“I’ll see you at the Chateau.” JJ said, adjusting his bag straps as he walked backwards, leaving you to calm John B down enough to return. You’d figure out how to be friends again but it would take some time. 

-

Taglist: @maplelattes22 @poguesrforlife  @freckled-and-daydreaming  @chasefreakinstokes @millie-753 @fangirlwithme @alex12948 @howdyherron @katherine097 @tangledinsparkles @tragicmisfits @carbonated-beverage @mariofgreengables @damonsalvawhore27 @ssprayberrythings @dopedoodes @dolanfivsosxox @belledutchess @poguelifeeee @jjsthumbring @faded-blue @jolomez @timotaychalabae @pogue-h @jjmxybank @parkerpetertingle

[radishaur]

May I please request 87, 93 & 95 from dialogue prompts to make a reader swoon for Zuko? I'm in the mood for something angsty. Thank you!!

We love a good angst moment. I hope this lives up to your expectations! I might write an optional happy ending later on, but for now I’m going to leave this one open ended. I feel like that’s the ultimate angst. Just not knowing. Anyways, I hope you enjoy! For those who haven’t read the prompt list here they are. #87 is “Don’t tell me you love me unless you mean it”, #93 is “They told me that you’d break my heart but, holy shit, they never said it’d feel like this”, and #95 is “I just want you to be happy, even if your happiness doesn’t include me, I just want you happy”.

- Zoe

•••

All Just Lies (Zuko x Reader)

Warnings: None

Genre: Angst

Part: 1/3

Summary: See Request

•••

You hated Ba Sing Se. It all seemed too happy. Traveling with the Avatar had shown you that pretty much every town was touched by the war in some way. Even if it wasn’t physically touched, the stress and emotions that war brought along was undeniably present everywhere you went. Everywhere expect here. To you, Ba Sing Se seemed just too good to be true.

There wasn’t any mention of the war anywhere you went. Not a single conversation or passing comment. Not even the hint of one.

Granted, you had only been allowed to stay in the Upper ring of the city. It was easy for rich socialites to ignore the hardships of war. You wanted to explore the other rings, but Joo Dee had insisted that you stay with the group to be under her careful guidance. You weren’t buying it. She was hiding something for sure.

That’s why you decided to sneak into the lower rings on your own. You pretended to be sick and left the house when the group had gone with Joo Dee. And that’s how you found him. You were walking around the lower ring watching for anything out of the ordinary when you saw him.

He was serving tea to an old couple with a forced smile on his face. His hair was longer than it had been the last time you had seen him and you probably wouldn’t have recognized him if it wasn’t for the scar. It made him hard to miss.

You decided to watch him carefully to see what he was up to. You spent the entire day outside of the shop and he simply continued serving tea. You were about to leave when you saw him walk outside. You hid further in the alley way as he began looking around. He had his hair smoothed down the middle which made you laugh. He looked ridiculous. It was almost worse than the ponytail. Almost.

Your mouth hit the floor when you saw a girl come up to his side and ruffle his hair. You trailed after them as she brought him to a restaurant. You watched in disbelief as you began to realize what exactly you were watching. Prince Zuko of the Fire Nation was on a date.

You continued watching mostly to make sure he really wasn’t onto anything, but also out of curiosity. Unfortunately, you let your curiosity get the better of you. When you saw him kiss his date you accidentally knocked over a crate. You snapped your head to see Zuko staring at you, recognition crossing his face. You had been seen. You immediately ran off to avoid him finding you, but no such luck.

Just when you thought you were out of sight, you felt a warm hand grab your wrist and yank you into a dark alley way. Zuko stood in front of you with the familiar angry glimmer in his eyes.

“What are you doing here?” he growled, his hold on my wrist still firm.

“What are you doing here?” I shot back.

“I’m the one asking the questions. Answer me,” he ordered.

His grip was beginning to get warm as he struggled to contain his anger. I wanted to rip my arm away but I knew he was stronger than me.

“I was trying to figure out why this place gives me the creeps. I stumbled across your little tea shop as I was exploring,” I answered, desperately hoping that he would let go of my wrist.

“You’re lying,” he hissed, his palm now beginning to burn my skin.

I whimpered slightly and began to tug my wrist out of his grip. He held on tighter which caused me to let out a small cry of pain. At that, his eyes widened in shock and he cursed slightly under his breath as he let go. I cradled my wrist in my other hand and saw that it had burned slightly.

“Come with me,” he huffed, reaching out to grab my arm again.

I immediately back up against the wall and looked up at him in fear. I was stupid for believing that this would end any other way than badly. Why did I have to trail him on his stupid date.

His eyes softened at my response and he seemed almost upset as he realized I was terrified. He ran a hand through his hair and sighed.

“I’m not going to hurt you. My Uncle can fix your burn,” he said.

I hesitated, but decided to go with him. His Uncle was a kind man and the burn on my skin was really painful. Not to mention that it was dark out. I didn’t want to walk alone in this part of town injured. I sighed before nodding and following him as he lead me to their apartment.

When his Uncle opened the door and saw me, he sent his nephew a questioning look. I waved slightly and his eyes widened when he saw the burn on my wrist. He immediately pulled us inside.

“I see my nephew has still not learned to control his temper,” he scolded as he sat me down on the couch.

“She was following me!” he exclaimed, sitting himself down on the opposite end of the couch.

“So you burned me? That seems equal,” I snipped back in response, glaring at him.

“You know, I liked you better when you were terrified,” he snarled.

That earned him a smack against the back of his head from his Uncle. I had to hold a hand up to my mouth to muffle my laughter. Zuko was practically glaring daggers into me.

As his Uncle parched me up, I continued to explain what I was really doing in the lower ring and why I had been following Zuko. That lead to his Uncle explaining why they were there in the first place. To say I was shocked was an understatement. I promised not to tell the others they were here in exchange for them letting me check up on them. Just to make sure they kept true to their word.

The gaang had been super worried when I finally got home, but I gave them a story about how I had burned myself trying to cook while they were gone and had to go get myself patched up. They all seemed to buy it.

For the next few weeks, I continued to do surveillance checks on Zuko and his Uncle. At first they were just that: checks. I would slip in and out. But they soon became longer and longer. I got to know them both and I would even have called Zuko a friend. As my stays became longer and longer, Zuko and I became closer and closer. Eventually, we even started dating.

He seemed happy. He had given up on searching for Aang and seemed to be content living the rest of his life here with his Uncle. He made me laugh and he treated me well. It was everything I could have hoped for, until it wasn’t anymore.

When the time came to choose, he chose Azula. I managed to hold them off with Uncle as Katara escaped with Aang, but I was then taken as a prisoner. Zuko didn’t visit me the entire ship ride back to the Fire Nation. The first time I saw him after his betrayal was a week after his return.

“You have a visitor,” the guard informed me.

I was shocked to see who it was. There Zuko stood, a plate of food in hand and an unreadable expression on his face. I glared at him and stayed silent as he sat down on the floor outside my cell.

“I brought you some food. I figured you might be hungry,” he said, shoving the plate under the whole in the bars.

“I have no interest in speaking with you,” I growled, turning my head away from him and crossing my arms.

“I thought you might say that. So, all I ask is that you hear me out,” he pleaded.

He took my silence as his invitation.

“I know you don’t understand and that you’re upset. But you have to understand that I did what I had to do. This is where I belong and I wasn’t going to give it up. But I still.....that doesn’t mean I don’t miss you. That I don’t still have feelings for you,” he said, scooting closer to the bars in an attempt to get my attention.

I scoffed at that. If he thought I was stupid enough to believe that he had another thing coming. I expected him to get angry and yell at me for not responding. What I didn’t expect is what he actually did.

“Y/N, I’m in love with you,” he said quietly.

His words broke my heart into a million pieces. I clutched my fists at my side and turned to look at him.

“Don’t you dare say that. Don’t tell me you love me unless you mean it”, I spat venemously, “Which, by the way, I can assure you you don’t.”

“You can’t tell me what I feel!” he exclaimed, finally giving me the angry response I was expecting.

“Oh really?” I challenged, turning my body to face him, “If you loved me, would I be sitting in this cell right now?”

“That’s not-“ he began, but I cut him off.

“Everything you’re saying is a lie! It’s all a lie!” I screamed, pointing a finger at him in accusation, “I’m in this cell because you decided to sacrifice your Uncle and I for your own selfish need. You gave up the only two people who cared about you for a man who burned you and threw you away.”

“Shut your mouth,” he hissed, small flames igniting in his hands.

“And don’t think I haven’t heard about your new girlfriend. Mai, I believe her name was,” I said cooly, leaning back against the wall.

He was shocked into silence. The flames that were in his palms immediately disappeared.

“H-How....How did you even find out about that?” he asked in disbelief.

“Maybe you didn’t visit me on the ship ride home, but your sister sure did,” I said, wiping at a stray tear that had begun to fall.

“Oh,” was all he said.

His head hung in shame. I shook my head and laughed as I wiped yet another tear from my cheeks.

“Can you believe I was stupid enough to fall for you? I even told my friends about you,” I said, chuckling slightly about my own stupidity.

“You did?” he asked.

“Katara saw you and your Uncle in the upper ring when Iroh opened The Jasmine Dragon. I told her you had changed,” I let myself laugh at the last sentence, “I told everyone about us and how much I cared about you. And do you know what Katara said?”

He didn’t say anything.

“She told me that I was a fool. Who knew just how right she would be,” I sighed.

“Y/N, I didn’t do this to hurt you,” he argued, clearly grasping at straws for what to say.

“I should have listened to them. They all warned me. They told me that you’d break my heart but, holy shit, they never said it’d feel like this,” I admitted, now letting the tears fall shamelessly.

“You could have come home with me. The Fire Nation would have welcomed you as a hero,” he said.

“You’re delusional. I’m not from the Fire Nation. I’m your enemy. I’d be in this same spot wether I helped you or not,” I snapped back, my temper finally getting the better of me.

“I knew this was a bad idea! I take back everything I said. You can sit in this cell and rot away for all I care!” he exclaimed, standing up and throwing fire at the wall in frustration.

I watched him and I couldn’t help but feel so sad. Sad about what could have been if things had been different. If we had not been on opposite sides of a war we never asked for. I wanted to be angry at him, but I couldn’t. I looked at him and smiled.

“You know, even after everything, I don’t hate you. In fact, I know I’m in love with you. I just want you to be happy, even if your happiness doesn’t include me, I just want you happy,” I said sadly.

He stopped at my words. I could tell he was struggling with what to do next.

“I hope the sacrifice was worth it,” I said, turning my head to hide my tears.

“What kind of mind games are you trying to play?” he snarled.

“I’m not playing any game, Zuko. When you truly love someone, you want them to be happy no matter what,” I huffed, desperately wishing he would leave.

I just wanted to lay down and cry. I wanted to cry until my head hurt and my eyes were puffy and red. I wanted to cry until my voice gave out. I wanted to mourn what we had so I could forget about him.

Zuko didn’t say anything. He stood up and opened the door as if to leave. He paused to look over at me one last time.

“Goodbye, Prince Zuko,” I said, smiling sadly.

He slammed the cell door. The sound reverberated back and forth into nothing. And the silence was back. The horrible, head splitting silence that comes after such a moment.

The calm after a storm.

[kortsitron]

There Is Nothing Wrong With You

Relationship: Steve Rogers × TransMale! Reader { Romantic }

Location: City streets, Reader's and Steve's apartment

Warnings: Transphobia, Swearing, Harassment, Blood

❌ Reader is on T and is after top surgery ❌

[A/N]

I have no idea why I'm lately into writing that stuff. I you're wondering, I'm okay, no one is hurting me for being trans, so there is no need to worry. Enjoy the oneshot and Stay safe during this hard times. ❤

It all happened so fast. All (Y/N) saw was dark figures and voices of people. Voices were calling him things that were making him falling apart and making him start crying. He was in the dark corner with three guys who was kicking and hitting him. (Y/N) couldn't do anything, he was only asking so help and begging them to stop their actions. No one could help him, it was night and not many people walking at this time.

"Fucking bitch." One of them said before kicking (Y/N) for the last time. Making him shouting in pain. "Let's go, I think that little queer got what she deserved." He said and they left (Y/N).

He was crying. He was in his own blood. He gently touched his nose, he hissed in pain, feeling liquid coming out of it.

"S-shit." He muttered trying got up. It was late. He should be alone. He was slowly walking to his apartment, being afraid that there is something that can hurt him more.

After 15 minutes of walking he finally was standing right in front of the door. He felt something in his chest, it was stress about Steve's reaction.

He got into the home, closing the door quietly behind him. He saw Steve sitting in the living room, clearly stressed, because (Y/N) should be earlier in here. Soldier was worried as hell about man he loved.

"H-hi." (Y/N) said, making Steve looking at him with confusion and sadness at the same time. "How long you were waiting for me?" He asked quietly, trying not to cry. He was trying to stay calm for as long as it is possible.

He came to him, put hand on his shoulders.

"Where have you been? What happened to you?" He asked softly as he cupped (Y/N)'s face and looked into his eyes.

"I-I... They just decided to beat me and say the things that I have never wanted to hear. I-I'm so sorry. I should never leave without." He whispered, his voice broke a few time while saying this. Steve hugged him gently, making sure not to hurt him more.

"Can you sit in the kitchen? I will take care of you." Blond haired man said, looking at (Y/N) as he nodded and went to the kitchen, then he sat on chair.

Steve got to the bedroom and got everything he need and went back to his boyfriend. He sat in front of him and he gently touched his chin, making him looking at him while he was cleaning his face.

(Y/N) was making soft noises from time to time, all of them were because of pain.

"Do you know who done that to you?" Soldier asked as he started cleaning his boyfriend's face, starting from his nose.

"No. I do not know them." He answered, trying not to move to much.

Both were silent again. Steve was still cleaning (Y/N)'s face as (Y/N) finally decided to ask something his boyfriend.

"Uhm... Steve?"

"Yes?"

"Is there something wrong with me, because I'm trans?" He said quietly.

Steve stopped and looked into (Y/N)'s eyes that were tearing up again. He was surprised by this question.

"Honey," He spoke. "Do not think that there is something wrong with you."

"It's easier to say that, than actually do."

"I know. It's hard to be you. I know I cannot understand your problems sometimes and I know that your problems are not easy, but I will be doing everything to make it easier for you."

"Thank you. I'm glad I have such a great boyfriend as you."

"No problem, darling. I will be there for you, when you will need me."

(Y/N) weakly smiled at that. Steve started to putting bandages.

"Can we watch something or just do something together later?"

"Of course, (Y/N)." He smiled as he kissed his cheek and looked at him with sweet, heart melting smile. "What would you like to watch?"

"(Favourite movie name)."

"Okay. Maybe you want to take a bath before that? You know, to get relaxed."

"Yes. I think that would be great."

"Before that I would like to see your chest, ok? I want to make sure that nothing more happened to you." He said as he cupped his cheek with his hand. (Y/N) nodded.

"Alright." He said as they both went to the bathroom. Steve gently took off his lover's shirt. Then (Y/N) felt a soft touch on his ribs.

Rogers sighed. He didn't liked what he saw. (Y/N) had a lot of bruises on his chest and around his ribs.

"You have some bruises." He said sadly. "It hurts when I touch you?"

"A little bit." He spoke, squirming a little at Steve's touch. "I will be ok, right?"

"You will. I will make sure that you will be ok." Steve said as he kissed (Y/N)'s forehead and made him blush.

***

(Y/N) and Steve were cuddling in bed while watching a movie that (Y/N) choosed.

"How do you feel?" Steve asked while touching (Y/N)'s soft hair. He liked to do that, because he knew how his lover enjoyed that feeling.

"More okay than a while ago, but it still hurts." He muttered hugging his soldier tightly. "Do you think we should go to the hospital or something?"

"I think we should go. I'm worried about your ribs. I hope nothing much happened to them."

"I hope that too, Steve."

"Tell me," He spoke, (Y/N) looked into his beautiful eyes. "What are we going to with these people who done this terrible things to you?"

"I-I don't know. Can we think about it tomorrow, please?"

"We can." He said and then he kissed (Y/N)'s forehead. "I love you so much."

"I love you too, captain."

[sourbat]

39 for hammertooth if you'd like to...? 8)

Kissing tears from the other’s face.

Wow. So, this turned out big. There’s a kiss before the main one, but trust me when I say it doesn’t compare to the main course. 

I really hope you like this one. Thank you. 

Warning: set post Galaktikon 2

Toki dreamed. He dreamed he was in space, floating aimlessly amongst the vast black sea of nothingness. In his dream, he carried no physical form, no arms or legs to paddle through the weightless current, and no mouth to call his brothers who floated alongside him, there in spirit, and just as formless as he. In his dream, they sailed across earth’s outermost layer, drifting peacefully, coating the planet in a veil that soothed, healed it from the damage of a battle between gods. Toki stared outwards, at the distant stars, twinkling bright. He paid no mind to his spreading consciousness, instead taking delight in how he could stare the sun head-on without his eyes hurting, the glowing fogs of distant galaxies that radiated new colors Toki never knew existed, and the gorgeous purple and white swirl of their own milky way.

In his dream, he saw the earth beneath him, massive and blue. Eyeless, but all-seeing, Toki watched the glitter of city lights, the gathering of clouds, and the graceful turn of the planet. He saw how day transformed into night,  and in doing so, remembered a distant, faded memory. A promise he made. Something important. Toki watched the planet spin, days and weeks go by, trying to remember what it was, the promise, but couldn’t breach anything past those final moments before falling asleep. So he stopped, turning away from earth, and to the stars that flickered, at his nonexistent form, and went on, floated further into his beautiful, but admittedly lonesome dream.

…

He sailed further, vanishing into space,  consciousness never fully wavering despite the everlasting silence, the darkness and the unending sense of loneliness…

…

Something cut through the emptiness. A flat note ripped through space, waking Toki, startling him out of his peaceful state. An inkling, a sharp, painful reminder that he left something behind. With his mind now spread across the greater part of the galaxy, it took awhile just to wake up, to realize what was going on. The stars twinkled around him, and his brothers, just as equally spread and silent, quivered at the terrible sound. In his dream he was nothing more than a cluster of atoms, but the song somehow tore through Toki, attacking him, yelling and pleading for him to put himself back together. A terrifying noise. A mournful sound. An unending, unwavering rip of chords that called him forward, back to earth, to the atmosphere.  

And then came a dream of rain, of thunder and lightning, and Toki picking up each piece of himself, of Nathan and the others and, following the instruction of the grief-stricken, but now familiar tune, fixed them together and cast them into the storm clouds.

Toki dreamt of water, of falling into it and becoming one with the atmosphere. He dreamed that he was drowning. He feared he was, until a new sensation took hold. He was falling, away from the blackened sea, from the weightless joy of space, and was tumbling back to earth, falling, falling, closer to that frightening noise. The moment pieces of him sank into the clouds, collected and readied to be carried off into each droplet, the song became more rapturous, beautiful. Toki felt himself start to reform, and he could feel the fragments of a promise, and memory of him playing, helping orchestrate the music that now consumed his drenched, ailing soul.

He reached out with an arm that wasn’t entirely there, at the source of each trembling, wretched note. Each wonderful note. That familiar melody. 

His song.

 …

Toki woke to the gentle patter of rain hitting a window, and the sound of a monitor providing a steady, repetitive beep. Senses still trapped in a fog, Toki pushed a breath of air through his lips, and was surprised to discover the chapped edges and nerves stinging from the brief expulsion of air. The drizzle outside called for him to remain still. Toki couldn’t figure why, but thought he should listen to it. Still, he parted his mouth, breathing in the alien atmosphere, the strange, medicinal taste that lingered under each shallow inhale. In the distance, he heard footsteps, clicks, beeps, and voices.

Toki tried opening his eyes, to get a better sense of where he was, because he knew he wasn’t in his room. The bed underneath was too stiff, and the sheets so thin. Everything felt heavy and rigid, and whatever attempt he made to move, to wriggle in place, was met with an impossible weight. His legs were stones, and his throat was dry. His mind was alert, but his head was still fuzzy, and trying just to turn, to rub his face into the pillow made his brain feel stuffed and sick. His right arm was disturbingly numb.

The rain’s patter grew silent, and Toki possessed just enough strength to open his eyes, to meet with the harsh light right above him. His muscles squint, recoiled at the sudden change. The world was a massive, white blur, and as Toki wrestled with his consciousness, pulled himself awake and tried to focus his tired eyes on a shape, heard the monitor and turned towards it.

It was his monitor, he realized, staring wearily at the indistinct figure of a squiggly line jumping in tandem with his heartbeat.

He was…in a hospital?

Then came a sound. Something hard hitting the floor, and liquid splashing as it collided with a surface. Startled, Toki slowly turned his head, this time more capable, but felt a terrible ache that crawled up his spine and settled across his skull as he tried to locate the source of the noise.

He blinked. Standing before him was a dark, blurry figure.

“Toki?”

A pain filled Toki when he heard the voice. Magnus. He knew. Toki swallowed a lump, trying to make sense of why it hurt so much. He squinted his eyes, barely catching the outline of Magnus’ figure, the wild and indistinct form of his hair, and the long, thin design of his encroaching form. 

“…Ma–”

“Toki!” A sad, desperate cry.

Magnus approached, stepping over whatever mess he concocted, and hurried towards the bed before Toki could effectively focus on him. His bed shook, and Toki knew Magnus was there, gripping it, trembling above him. He stared at the blurry figure, barely making out the man’s silhouette, but spotting the rich color of his iris set upon him.

“You’re awake…”

The shaking of the bed ceased, now replaced with warm, shaking fingers outlining Toki’s face. Toki closed his eyes at the touch, racked with a terrible ache as hands cupped his jaw. Each touch was so affectionate, so tender, and for whatever reason, Toki felt starved of it. Warm hands. A thumb rolling over his cheek. He detected every distinct movement, no matter how soft, how subtle, and the pain that nestled in his chest grew bigger, heavier, and a terrible feeling, one Toki couldn’t put into words, gripped him. As if he had read Tokis’ mind, Magnus now hovered over him, and his lips gently applied soothing reminders across Toki’s forehead that this was real; his frantic, uneven breaths hitting Toki’s face was real; each pained touch that warmed Toki’s weakened state, reawakened nerves and filled Toki with energy, was real. It was supposed to calm him, but Toki shuddered, terrified by the thought that arose, the thought that this was real, that he was finally feeling something. 

Like he was waking up from a very long sleep.

Toki stared into the dark mass of hair and shadows. “Magnus?”

“Yeah,” his warm voice spoke, trembling and reverberating that same fear as it sank into Toki. Magnus pulled back. “H-how you doing, buddy?” 

Toki stared at the reconfigured form, of Magnus slowly coming into better view. Toki could make out the red surrounding Magnus’ eye, the blurry line that made up his smile. 

He swallowed again. “…tired.”

Magnus chuckled above him. “I’ll say,” he said, voice stressed and hoarse. “You’ve been sleeping for nearly a week.”

Toki went silent. A whole week?

It would explain why he felt so tired, muscles and joints stiff from a lack of movement, and body sore and weighted from underuse. Toki blinked, a little pleased when he reopened them to see some loose strands of Magnus’ hair finally begin to solidify. He could make out Magnus’ face better, and with it, could see what his long sleep had done. The man looked so worried! So concerned. So…so tired.

“Ams…awakes now,” Toki said, surprised by how a week-long rest could result in his voice so faint, lungs exhausted from a simple inhale.

Oh, but they had a battle! Right… a battle in space. No wonder he felt so weak.

“Magnus,” Toki called, heaving the man’s name out. “Dids we...”

“You did it, man,” Magnus said, voice falling to a barely controlled quiver. The space between them vanished once more, shadow returning to cover Toki. Magnus’s hands cradled his head, returning and supplying Toki with a touch that was still so intense, so refreshing despite only being away from him for a week. “You saved the planet. You all did…”

Toki smiled at the news, felt the ends of his eyes burn as Magnus continued to feed and refill his hungry, empty body with his touch. Toki closed them, choosing to focus on the relief of knowing it was finally over, and sighed under each welcoming sensation, the warmth of Magnus’ presence finally reentering his life after spending so long dreaming of the stars. He listened as Magnus informed him it was alright, that everyone was alive, that the others were waking up with each passing day. Toki sniffed, elated to hear that everyone was safe, that Skwisgaar would wake up soon after him, and they’d all be able to celebrate. Abigail was here. And Charles. His arm was broken, and he suffered some burns here and there, and he’d have to stay in the hospital for a little while longer to run some tests, but he was alive. Everyone was alive, and he made it back in one piece.

Suddenly, his smile started to burn, and Toki felt a minute rip spread across the center of his upper lip. He licked it, tasting the parting of his chapped skin, and winced at the sting of his own dry tongue. He swallowed. “Ams…thirsty.”

“Gotcha,” Magnus said, and parted from him to retrieve some water. The instant he did, the ache returned. It was less than a minute, but the yearn for touch, for someone to acknowledge and speak with him quickly consumed Toki’s thought. It was the same, unending feel of loneliness that had started to fill his dreams, and was returning with a vengeance for each second he spent alone.

But Magnus returned, cup and straw in hand, and the pain quelled long enough for Toki to get the first eager sips of liquid down his throat. His slip lip ached, but a few licks from his now moist tongue helped ease the pain. 

“Better?” 

“Yeah,” Toki answered, smiling up at Magnus.

Magnus leaned close and carefully placed a finger on top of the cut lip. “Here, let me get you some more,” he said after a quick check, and left his seat to refill the cup. As he did, Toki cast his tired eyes on the man, and he noticed there was something off about his appearance.

He was thin. Magnus was noticeably slimmer, enough that Toki could point it out despite his vision not being his best. There was that fine blur that suggested it might not be the case, but when Magnus returned to his bedside, Toki could see the finer details. His cheekbones were more pronounced, and Magnus, though happy, looked emaciated.

“You hasn’t beens eatins,” Toki stated, frowning. He tried lifting his left arm to touch Magnus and  feel the sharp counters that he had worked so diligently to fill with hearty meals and love, but could barely bring to lift it. 

Magnus took Toki’s hand into his own. “I’m sorry, Toki,” he said, smiling terribly at him. “It was…rough. I’ll regain it all back, man. Just you wait. You just…” Magnus paused, lowered his head and inhaled deeply. He glanced up. “You just focus on getting better, alright?”

Toki gave a weakened nod, but struggled to hold a smile. Magnus looked unwell. He almost looked as bad when Toki visited him in the hospital, right after he recovered from his surgery. He looked so much thinner! Exhausted. Broken down. It… hurt. Toki remembered working so hard to get his weight up, and Magnus lost it all in such a short period. He must have been so stressed, so worried looking after him. 

The threat of tears arose, and Toki shut his eyes.

“Something wrong?” he heard Magnus ask.

Toki shook his head.

“What is it?”

Toki sniffed, opening them. “You must... have beens so... w-worried,” he said, whimpering out the words. “Must… have beens a… really scaries week.”

Magnus stood up to get closer. He pressed his head gently against Toki’s. “You’ve no idea. But don’t worry; I’ll be ok.” He got closer, arms wrapping around Toki’s lying body, carefully sliding underneath him and stopping whenever Toki jerked from the random jolt of pain. Somehow, he managed to produce a recognizable hug. A strange, distant hug, but one Toki realized he desperately needed. The moment Magnus affirmed it, Toki wanted nothing more than to return it, to break whatever space remained between them and experience the entire embrace. He wanted to feel Magnus hold him, enjoy the fastened pace of his heart and the sheer joy of just having him close. But even this awkward, incomplete hug felt so good. So refreshing. New. Like he hadn’t…

Like he hadn’t hugged Magnus in a very, very long time.

Toki blinked. Tears began to roll down his face as he revisited his dream and saw himself, not quite alive, but not dead either, floating in space, watching the earth slowly spin with the passing days. How many times did it spin? Toki lost count, and his attention had turned towards shooting stars and far away galaxies once he grew tired of the revolving earth. He spread all over the cosmos, getting lost, forgetting, and it was only because he heard the song…

Toki sniffed. “M-Magnus?”

Magnus held him as close as he could. “Yeah, Toke?” 

Toki closed his eyes one final time to try and stop the tears, to fight the horrible realization that was unfolding before him. “H-how longs…how longs has Toki beens gone?” he coughed. Magnus shuddered at the question. Toki wriggled in place, even though it took up so much of his energy. Even though it hurt. He needed to see Magnus. He needed to know. Toki continued moving, pushing Magnus away until he had no choice but to face him. Trembling, Toki asked, “How longs did it… takes me to gets backs home?”

He saw the anguish in Magnus’ eyes.

“M-Magnus?”  he pleaded, shaking in his bed. He inhaled a deep breath, fighting through the soreness to get a full sentence out. “H-how longs haves you and everyones been waitins for us?”

Magnus recoiled at the question. Toki watched as Magnus brought a hand to cover his darkened eyes, to hide away a drop of the pain that was now emitting from him. Magnus trembled,  his lips curled into a thin line as he exhaled heavily through his nostrils. Finally, after some time, Magnus dropped his hand, letting it fall on top of Toki’s, while the other gripped the bed’s metal railing.

“You’ve…well, you’ve been away for a while, buddy,” he said, voice fighting between keeping a gentle composure, and wanting nothing more than to break and fall into a state of piteous cries.  Magnus’s mouth remained opened, and Toki watched as he sucked in a staggered breath. Magnus squeezed his hand.  “A little more than two months.”

Toki sank. “W-what?”

“You arrived just in time for New Years,” Magnus said, forcing a laugh. He squeezed Toki’s hand again, adding a little playful shake. “D-don’t worry…I’ll sneak in some champagne.”

Months.

The word hit hard. Months. He’d been away for months. He’d been dead for months!

No wonder Magnus was so thin. It’s been months. He waited for months. Abigail and the others…

Months.

“Oohhh…” Toki’s lips curled, bearing teeth before parting further. A pain stabbed at his heart. He let out an airy gasp, then broke into a weak cry.

“Hey, hey.” Magnus lowered, letting go of the railing to pet Toki, and then gave him a more affirming squeeze. “Hey. Shhh. It’s alright.”

“N-no ams not!” Toki wailed. He coughed, choking on uneven gulps of air. “I…I has been gones for… t-two months. I…”

Magnus pressed his face into Toki’s crown. “It’s ok,” he whispered into Toki’s messy hair. “I’ll catch you up on everything.” Another haughty laugh. “Spoiler alert: nothing important happened.”

Toki stared at Magnus’ heaving chest. “B-but, Magnus...”

“Toki, it’s al–”

“I l-left you all alones…” More tears fell, and Toki let out a staggered whine. “Yous waited f-for two months…and Toki… m-missed your…”

Magnus’ hand shook.

“…I m-missed your birthdays!” Toki bleated, and let out another whine once Magnus pulled him into a hug. A real hug.

His arm, though in a cast, ached. It burned, stung like nothing Toki ever felt before, but when faced with the pain, all he could think to do was bring his one good arm up to return the favor. He lifted it as high as he could, barely making it over Magnus. More tears fell as Toki felt the effect of their embrace, the warmth that he’d been deprived of for months.

“I missed y-your birthdays…and Christmas…” he bawled. His heart stung, racked with guilt. “I gots you n-nothings!” 

“Oh, no, Toki.” Magnus pulled away, breaking the hug in the process. He stared down at a wretched Toki, face ruined with tears, saliva and snot. Magnus shook his head at him. “No, you…”

He cupped Toki’s shaking jaw. Thumbs rolled over Toki’s cheeks, wiping away a few of the tumultuous streams of tears covering the younger man’s face. Toki winced, squinting each time Magnus tried, but failed, to cut off a stream, then felt another burst of heartache when Magnus gave up, succumbed and let a gentle flow begin to fall from his hardened face. He dipped forward, face covering Toki’s. Toki felt the sharp prickle of Magnus’ unkempt facial hair rub against him. Magnus drew his lips upwards, kissing Toki’s tear-stained cheek. The first stung just as bad as the hug, but then came the second, kissing another stream away and leaving behind an inkling of relief. Then, a third. A fourth.

Then Magnus parted. “You gave me the best damn gift of all,” he said, voice hoarse and raspy. He looked Toki in the eyes. “You came back. Like you said you would.”

Toki hiccuped a weak cry.

Magnus wiped away some of his own tears with his sleeve, then smiled. “Gift just…it arrived a little late,” he said, stuttering an awkward laugh that was far more genuine than the last. It was real, and although it sounded so off, and it ended with a sharp, staggered inhale, the truth that filled each word before it, the smile that lifted it, and the lighthearted beginning of its treble was more than enough to let Toki know Magnus meant it.

Hearing it, Toki sniffed, squinted his sore eyes, and then broke into another, more uncontrolled cry. He bobbed his head, trying to agree, trying harder to smile, but the tears wouldn’t stop. Magnus returned to him, attending to the opposite cheek, and kissed at the tears that wouldn’t cease flowing. With his weakened arm, Toki held on to Magnus, fighting whatever pains it brought him to have him close, even after his monitor warned him to stop, and the nurses raced in to demand what was going on and tell Magnus to have better control of himself.  He didn’t let go. He wouldn’t let go even after the nurses threatened to put him under, and another called for Mr. Offdensen. Toki held on, waiting for that moment when Magnus kissed all the tears and inner turmoil away, leaving nothing behind but the pain from a long battle and the promise that, that too, would soon be soothed by him.