#ALSO anticipate me bugging new mutuals for plots

[gcldfanged]

Okay, I'm going to grab dinner and finish some drafts.

[luvksj]

Yandere! Undisputed Era: Coming Back Home

author’s note: greetings and happy new years to everyone! for a while, i’ve been heavily into wrestling so i wanted to try write a yandere story for one of my favorite fractions in WWE right now-- UNDISPUTED ERA! please enjoy and thank you for your support! also, just for this setting, can we pretend COVID-19 never existed, just a heads up! 

please let’s not talk about the fact adam cole turned his back on kyle o’reilly because i was not emotionally ready for undisputed era to fucking break up. i knew they were going to eventually break up but damn-- why so soon? 

plot: undisputed era were on the other side of the world when you had escaped but two years later, you find yourself missing them despite everything they did.

[back in 2018: just for context]

“Flight FA8745 heading to Paris, France is now boarding. Repeating, Flight FA8745 heading to Paris, France is now boarding, please promptly make your way to Gate 7.” the announcer informed.

You were first in line, handing the awaiting flight staff your passport and ticket before literally sprinting inside into business class of the airplane which would take you far away from here and most importantly-- them. 

Months of cautious planning went into this particular day from faking an illness to using public library computers to book your tickets to Paris where you’d start fresh again. Nothing could go wrong otherwise it would be game over and they were currently on the other side of the world: touring with WWE and NXT.

That’s right, you were in a relationship with ALL four members of the most dominant faction of NXT: Undisputed Era. 

You met them through a mutual friend who worked for WWE and instantly clicked-- becoming good friends and they announce their attraction towards you before starting this four-year torturous relationship where freedom just didn’t exist anymore. Your access to the outside world was abruptly cut off, you had to obey their every request otherwise you’d be punished and those fan fictions didn’t go justice to what you went through each time. 

It took hours to convince them to leave you behind with what they thought you had was a ‘nasty cold’ but however the only thing you were catching was a plane to Paris where no-one could find you. In order to make this act somewhat believable-- you remained home for the first few days and without fail, they would call to check up. 

You had just finished the daily call, saying your final goodbye before hanging up and secretly disabling all security cameras then collecting your suitcases hidden in a false bottom underneath your bed. Catching an awaiting uber, you asked him to ‘step on it’ to the airport where you went through customs and sat anxiously-- losing your appetite with each passing second.

Finding your seat, you hoped and prayed that the plane would take off soon. You had secretly purchased another phone using money saved up in a secret bank account set-up. You knew each item brought by them was bugged with trackers so you didn’t bring much luggage since you had used the remainder of your secret stash. 

“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for choosing Air France this evening. Please fasten your seatbelts as we prepare for departure and direct your attention to the front for the safety briefing.” the captain announced.

You were finally free.

[time skip: 2 years later (2020)]

You had settled down nicely in Paris and eventually found a job as a dancer for a well-known video game: Just Dance. It paid incredibly well, you were loving this new-found freedom however... you maybe missed them just a little.

Adam’s humor, Roderick roasting anyone and everyone (including you sometimes), Bobby being the best teddy bear ever and Kyle’s cuteness/wholesomeness. They may have been incredibly possessive, manipulative and strict but at least you felt loved and wanted. 

NO! You escaped and you shouldn’t be regretting it. You still followed their career and watched NXT every week without fail making sure they were okay however before you knew it, you had booked tickets back to America because it became too much. 

Every week, watching NXT, you found yourself craving for them and yearning for their comfort but you kept saying that this was the best, remembering how they continuously scarred you both physically and mentally. But, you gave into your desire-- you needed them and that hurts. 

Arriving in America or more specifically; Orlando, Florida where Wargames was being held. They were currently in a heated rivalry with Pat McAfee, Pete Dunne, Danny Burch and Oney Lorcan and they would battle each other inside Wargames much to Undisputed Era’s liking. 

Hiding backstage, you watched from a monitor as the Undisputed Era entered first before Pat McAfee and company. They had changed dramatically since the last time you had seen them and unconsciously teared up, Kyle O’Reilly and Pete Dunne started the most anticipated match off. 

Despite being at a disadvantage, Undisputed Era had managed to win with Kyle O’Reilly pinning Oney Lorcan for the win and you screamed with joy while jumping around, fist bumping the air. They were still inside the cage, soaking up the moment... well it was about to get a whole lot sweeter.

‘SHOCK THE SYSTEM’ resounded then you walked out, a smile wider than Roderick’s shoulders on your face with tears cascading endlessly. Circling the two rings carefully before entering on the opposite side, grabbing a microphone from staff officials. 

Two years since you’ve seen them, you all have drastically changed: matured even. “I...” you were choking up just seeing them yet two years ago all you wanted to do was for them to disappear. “I’m sorry for leaving... if you don’t want me back, well I understand. I’m here to congratulate you on your ever so sweet victory against these four stooges. So... well done.” 

Short, sweet and to the point. They looked among each other before circling you while completely ignoring the four bodies scattered aimlessly across the ring, “Don’t you ever do that again, understand?” Roderick stated, pulling me into a bone-crushing group hug. 

Tears cascaded once again as you wrap your arms firmly around the four men who may be incredibly controlling but the men who will forever love you. “I understand... I’m sorry.” you whispered against Adam’s sweaty chest. 

[inexhaustiblywild]

Hello folks!

So, in the grand tradition of my people, I am here to celebrate the people that made my life infinitely better, colourful, and all the more happier.

I am not doing this in any particular order, I just want to celebrate all my friends here and say a few heartfelt words and let you guys know while the year was less than appreciative to all of us, I think you guys were some of the best parts of it.

@codenamepinetree: so according to this you were the first person to follow this blog when I made the move and honestly that move was a great idea. I was super shy about it at first but I think we have grown into a pretty comfortable (at least in writing) relationship. Sadly I am still a bit of an awkward bean on the chat but that’s Cricket for you. I love Jackal, he’s so infuriating to Ernessa and you gave us a story of corruption, twisted love, and you let me explore her years in the military which I almost never get to do.

Outside of our threads you are a great friend and I know I can call on you with any crazy plot ideas I may stumble on my way through the day. I see such great potential in our crazies and our muses. Hope this new year will bring out the best for you!!!

@ericbrandonrp: you are actually my oldest mutual here, staying with me for over three blog changes so far and I feel like I owe you a lot for making me feel welcomed in this community of OC’s and you gave Ernessa and I a great story of love and betrayal. I know our activity has a bit dwindled and that’s mostly my fault. I shall remedy that as soon as I can. Tho regardless of activity I consider you a great friend.

as for Eric I love him, he is such an awkward fellow with very good intentions towards his loved ones. I love his enthusiasm, how he embraces new things and experiences. I wish Ernessa was kinder to him but heartbreaks do make great stories I suppose.

@seesgood: just like your url you see the good in everyone and I think many would agree with me when I say you are one of the pillars of this community, you spread positivity, joy, and love to us all even when we feel down. I see you rally for people, and I cried to you myself several times about how this community made me feel at times. It is because of you that I still have this blog, because of you that I didn’t pack my shit and moved on. Both of us love you so much. If you ever need anything call me.

I don’t know how to explain Caroline without letting Ernessa take control cause as far as she is concerned Caroline is her everything. She is warmth on a cold day as she’d put it. I think Ernessa loves her selflessness so much, her desire to be loved, her insecurities and vulnerabilities which Ernessa will protect or fight with her life. She is the kind of a woman someone should write sonnets about and you made me a stan for life. Both for you and for Caroline. We love you!

@quiisquiliae: hello friendo, the year is almost over and I send you and my lil dude all the love! In my heart you will always have a special place for being the person who introduced me to the glory that is dragon age and since then I have played that dumb game three times and loved every moment of it. Sadly, we didn’t get a lot of threads out this year, such is life, but I enjoy our every chat and the stupid banter our muses get up to. You and your crazy trash boys are a must in this community.

I don’t know which one of your boys I should shout out for because they are all garbage and I love them. (It’s in the name people!) Writing with you is some of the most fun I had, and I think I will give this spot to Tal because in the end his enthusiasm about stabbing people is what this holiday is all about. Tal is a mess, a hot mess but a mess. A hero that someone should have probably left home, but he’s now stuck with it. He is fun, he is stabby, and he has colourful ideas on how to hurt people. 10/10 would recommend.

@anditsxsorrows: I think you were the most surprising friend of the year. When I moved blogs I didn’t think you’d have any interest in me. Idk why but I’ve always been a bit shy around you and didn’t think you’d have much for lil ol’ me but boy was I wrong. You are a welcoming, open minded, and over all such a lovely person. Each time we write you kill me with how good it is. I wait for it and the anticipation of it is great but the BAM the real thing knocks me out every single time. You are quickly becoming one of my go-tos in terms of plotting and other shenanigans.

Klaus is exactly like what Ernessa is. They are from the same soul or star, or idk. I am not as good as them in terms of poetry and talking nice. But they are certainly something. Klaus’ love of art and the immediate acceptance he showed to Ernessa is something neither of is will forget. She is so in love dude, like it’s such a terrible idea to get them together because imagine the death toll alone but I love them. I love Klaus and how pretentious he is sometimes, and how he shows great kindness to Ernessa. Klaus is not a good person by any stretch of imagination, but he is an amazing friend and a lover (at least to her and that’s all that matters.).

@fvk-destiny: I have been thinking and this year certainly wouldn’t have been as good without you or Lambert. I am still getting to know you but what I see is something I admire. You have been a wonderful friend to me so far and I see you interact with others and that only cements my good opinion of you. I am looking forward to knowing you more outside of rp. You certainly have been one of the highlights of this year.

Lambert is one of my favourite muses to write with because honestly, I can see him as I read it. I am an avid fan of the third game, and I loved him ever since he decided to go on a homicidal rampage for his fallen friend. We stan Lambert in this house. Then as the story progressed, I loved him more. Then you took all these things I loved about him and made it into something much more compelling, and deep, and you gave him the story he deserves. I read him and all I want to do is give him a hug. Also I command him for letting a random woman off the street to just barge into his business and start ordering him about. I can’t wait to see what else we can create with him! To many more years of story telling and friendships!

@mxuntainlion: so, I found you through Lambert and what I find it has been! You took a little-known character and run with him. That requires imagination, dedication, and a lot of love. I always admire people who can take characters like Aiden and make them whole. You gave him an incredible story, and I love that me and my girl get to be a part of that story in some little way. Talking to you off rp has also been a delight, though I worry sometimes about these things I am really happy to gather my courage and now I consider you a friend. This year has been shit for so many reasons, but you and Aiden made it a little less horrible.

In terms of story in canon we don’t know much about Aiden but then here you are giving him this amazing and heart-breaking love story, make him this sassy, snarky and confident character. I know that next time I play the game that mission is gonna be so much more emotional because you made Aiden a real person. Ernessa is imprinted on him like a little duckling, she needs a big brother, she needs someone that she can prank her favourite cousin with. Idk she seems to adore him, and they make a very lovely adventuring company. I can’t wait to see their stories develop.

@humilemvatis: I remember feeling a bit hesitant to approach you because I am a potato but then you were so easy to talk to! I think I’ve been bugging you ever since. You took a unique approach to Jaskier and while you kept all the things that made us love him, you gave us even more reasons to love him! I think you are a very talented story teller and I am sure your bard would side with me on this. I followed you at the start of December and within that time you have been an amazing friend and source of inspiration.

Jaskier, I sincerely apologise for everything Ernessa says and does and will say and do. Their thread is still in it’s stages of infancy, but I can tell it has the potential to go some unexpected places. I love this Jaskier you have, his immortality, his inability to see his own worth and value at times. He needs a good soup as my grandma would say. I love him so much already and Ernessa’s appreciation of him is genuine tho she admits she judged him too quickly at first glance. She’ll remedy that soon!!!

[timetowritesomefluff]

Hey~I just found your blog and I really like it. I was wondering if you could ship me with a Teen Wolf and maybe Harry Potter character. I'm a Transman (pre everything). I'm not so tall,have brown hair and eyes. I love reading, drawing and watching movies/shows (huge nerd). I also love to travel, take walks in the woods or near a lake. Im very loyal and honest,can be quiet at first. I'm sarcastic and have a dark sense of humor. I can be very stubborn but I like talking about nothing and all.

Here you go, sweets. Hope you like! 💙

Allison is so, so. SO. Smitten.

This girl meets you as the third man to Scott and Stiles’ trio, and she’s such a bright red that Stiles’ asks if she got sunburned or something.

Unlike Scott, your relationship with Allison wasn’t so overprotective; you trusted her, she trusted you, in an almost immediate, unspoken agreement. It was that level of respect that bound you inextricably.

Allison still dated Scott, but there was always that specialness between you two; a friendship at first, the kind of love that never dies.

It meant that when her life started imploding, when her mother died, she broke up with Scott, and she began to distance herself, you were the one person would could still get through to her, that she would still talk to. You were too stubborn to give up on her, and honestly that’s what kept her going some days when she didn’t know who or how to trust.

You were her strength and her soft spot; and Allison was afraid of losing any more people she loved. Afraid more of losing you without ever having you in the first place. Allison didn’t want you to never know how she felt, so finally she just marched up to you—intending at first to just KISS you rather than stumble through words, but got scared at the last second and stepped back.

“I uh, you got—you got a, um, bug. There. On your shirt. I got it.”

“A bug? I thought for a second you were going to kiss me, or something.”

Allison saw the glimmer in your eye; you were teasing her. And that nervous feeling in her stomach melted away as you both laughed; it was easy for you to close the gap between you two, to take her in your arms and run your fingers through her dark hair, to kiss her as if you two had all the time in the world.

Morning walks became a consistent thing; where you two could just BE yourselves with each other, not be a hunter or the victims of another supernatural attack. It was the one time that life felt consistent for her.

Allison would, without fail, always find something for you—a flower, a dandelion, a pretty leaf, a caterpillar, a pretty rock.

“I love the color of your eyes,” Allison breathed, smiling just enough for that dimple on her right cheek to make an appearance.

Her breath fogged between you in the chilly, autumn morning air. It was cold enough to give you a reason to lean into her warmth. She played with the hair at the nape of your neck, still staring at you as if you were the rising sun.

“When the sun hits them, it’s like they’re on fire.”

It felt like fire, where her fingertips grazed the edge of your jaw. The kind of fire you were happy to burn in.

You and Allison would just honestly have this amazing relationship of just mutual respect, honesty, and love and omg it’s just so cute

Sirius Black had a reputation. He was practically the black leather jacket incarnation of cool, right?

So the fact that you made him so nervous that he accidentally put his hand in the pudding dish as he was leaning on the table while talking to you was something he never exactly lived down.

He babbled, blushed, and became a clumsy fool. You were smart, you were handsome, you were adventurous and FUN. And Sirius brought out a level of playfulness in you, making you feel safe. He always made you a priority: something that became clear when he’d always CONVENIENTLY run into you on your evening walks along the Dark Forest, claiming he was always lost even when you could clearly see Hogwarts just over his shoulder, because he just wanted an excuse to walk with you in silence, or talking, and almost always laughter.

You two would talk about any and everything: books, homework, the latest prank the marauders were planning (Sirius liked to bounce most of his ideas off of you, first). It was on one of these walks that Sirius’ hand just kept glancing off yours, every time sending a pleasant shock up your arm, until your fingers suddenly were tangled and oh no suddenly you’re holding hands

This man came from an abusive, oppressive home that made him feel like there was something wrong with him, like he was broken. And he’d be damned if he ever let his boyfriend (hello, that’s you) feel that way.

Black would be so, so protective of you. Someone uses the wrong pronouns on purpose? Suddenly they’re hexed so that they smell nothing but pickles, dirty socks, and rotting celery for a month. And it wouldn’t be just Black who had your back. ALL the marauders would be fiercely protective—thinking of you as the fifth man to their posse.

Sirius wasn’t really a teacher, he got impatient really quickly. But teaching you the patronus charm gave him an excuse to touch you, guiding your hand when it wasn’t really necessary with his other hand sliding around your waist.

“Something happy,” he reminded you. “Try to remember something happy.”

You didn’t have to remember anything. You WERE happy, incandescently. Sirius’ smile was blinding as your patronus as it bloomed from the end of your wand, and he cast his own quickly enough that the creatures interacted, and began to play with each other; a testament to your playful, easygoing, happy relationship with each other.

Hermione stumbled on you reading, which alone would have been enough to pique her interest. But she stumbled on you reading not somewhere predictable—she found you reading at the base of the Whomping Willow. You looked up at her stunned face, and smiled shyly.

“How…how is it…why aren’t you…whomped?”

The Whomping Willow had grown used to seeing you take your walks since you were a first year; eventually even anticipating you. Like a cat. You had a calming presence, and eventually it came to even LIKE you around your third year. So you just smiled, and closed your book as you stood up.

“I’m Y/N.”

Hermione shook your hand, taking in the page-turning calluses, the ink spattered on your fingernails from a productive morning of drawing, and the important detail of just how mesmerizing your face was.

“I’m Gramione Hanger. I mean hErmIONe GrANger!”

It was a steep path to budding romance.

Hermione, like the Whomping Willow, began to relax around you. The stress of her classes just suddenly seem so unimportant when she was listening to you ramble on about some intricate plot theory of a movie/show/book. And Hermione pushed you, too: she knew how smart you were, and how determined. She brought out the best in you, and never doubted for a second that you could succeed in anything you put your mind to (unless it was dethroning her and getting the highest grade in Transfiguration, then it was a competition—but I get the feeling that would just turn her on).

And when it came to defeating Voldemort, there was no one as fearless as you. Hermione loved that about you, and it wasn’t the fear of losing you that had her reaching silently for your hand one evening without explanation, but the realization that you were the absolute best and bravest person she knew, and she wanted to be with you.

Hermione wasn’t really all that interested in travel before she met you: but when she saw the way you explored new places, the way you found adventures in everything, she began to fall in love with it almost as much as she loved you. She’d read EVERYTHING about a place before you’d go, or while on a trip, and sometimes it was annoying because ‘yes, Hermione, I understand that the Eiffel Tower was constructed in 1887 and is over a thousand feet tall, I don’t care.’ And then sometimes when she’d research about a place and find secret passageways, or paths to hidden waterfalls, it was pretty useful to have a nerdy girlfriend.

She’d laugh as you charm a bouquet of cherry blossoms from the tip of your wand and hand them to her with a flourish. She’d dab a lingering kiss on your cheek, eyes bright. And you both felt you were exactly in the place you were meant to be: with each other.

[stevenuniversallyreviews]

Episode 92: Monster Reunion

“I have to try.”

The tragedy of Nephrite is Steven Universe’s longest side story, beginning with the very first episode and concluding five years later in the final episode of the show’s original run. How we feel about Nephrite at any given time indicates how we’re made to feel about Corrupted Gems as a whole at that point in the show. After Gem Glow, they’re monsters of the week. After Monster Buddies, they’re innocent but violent victims of...something. And after Monster Reunion, we know what that something is.

Ninety-two episodes in, we know of Yellow and Blue Diamond. We know they’re part of a a group called Great Diamond Authority, acting as Gem Matriarchs. We’ve seen an artistic representation of a third Diamond on the Moon Base. We’ve seen a four-part symbol with a white, yellow, blue, and pink diamond united as one. We got a hint of their musical cue as the Gems abandoned Earth in a flashback. And because the Diamonds are in charge, we also know that they’re responsible for some terrible things, from the forced fusion of Gem Shards to seeking of destruction of planets not only for reproduction, but revenge. The information is dripping in, and these Gems are shaping up to be the villains of the series, and thanks to that knowledge, all it takes is one sketch to emphasize their most heinous crime.

This is the episode where the horror of corruption sinks in, in the same way Keeping It Together reveals the horror of Cluster Gems. The Mother Centipeetle was a monster, and Centi was a pet, but this version trying desperately to communicate before she loses her sanity again is a person. She has memories spanning millennia but was trapped by her mind and her body by her own leaders. After a string of Beach City episodes with purely personal stakes, Monster Reunion’s depiction of a personal struggle representing an atrocity affecting a planet’s worth of Gems hits like a freight train. This isn’t just something the Diamonds did to their enemies: Nephrite, alongside countless other Corrupted Gems caught in the crossfire, was loyal to Homeworld, but that meant nothing.

Between the Cluster Gems and the Corrupted Gems, the Diamonds prove that they’re not content with just destroying the bodies of their opponents, but the souls of anyone that inconveniences them. We’ll learn a bit more about it in Nephrite’s fourth episode, Legs from Here to Homeworld, where it seems this corruption was unintentional (or at least unknown by Blue and Yellow Diamond), but Monster Reunion galvanized me against the Diamonds in a way no other episode has, and it does this by giving us a single, concrete character to sympathize with.

This is the second time this season Raven Molisee and Paul Villeco have given Steven an extensive conversation with an entity incapable of full communication, but unlike Gem Drill, Nephrite allows these artists to fully utilize their gift for character animation to tell their story. Molisee’n’Villeco episodes are distinguished by more exaggerated expressions than usual (see: the first act of Coach Steven, the climax of Rose’s Scabbard, Amethyst throughout Reformed, Steven-as-Lars in The New Lars), and that makes all the difference in enhancing our ability to relate with a growling alien cyclops bug. We don’t need words to tell us when Nephrite is scared, happy, curious, angry, or sad (we don’t even need tears to tell us that last one, but oof are they effective), and we’re able to empathize with her on a primal level thanks to her vivid expressions.

The other half of the Nephrite formula is master vocalist Dee Bradley Baker, who’s already performed as every Corrupted Gem in the series, as well as Lion. Baker’s prolific ability to give life to non-human characters make him virtually impossible to overrate, and he uses that gift to convey comprehensible communication from Nephrite with nothing but chirps and squawks. This is so much more effective than the cacophony of voices from the Cluster, allowing for an actual conversation of sorts between Steven and Nephrite. 

This would be a very different episode if Nephrite was still just Centi from Monster Buddies, and we have Molisee, Villeco, and Baker to thank. It’s not enough to feel bad for an animal in pain again: we need to see, for lack of a better term, the human suffering of it all. And I feel so bad for this woman who doesn’t even get to have a real name for another sixty-one episodes.

The conversation itself centers around a terrific use of flashback. As Steven reminds Nephrite (and the audience, because it’s been a while since Monster Buddies) of their history, we get depictions of the past that fully resemble Steven’s experiences. But Nephrite can’t talk, so we don’t even get the simplified silhouettes that accompanied stories from Garnet in The Answer or Lapis in Same Old World. We get crayons and stick figures, the most childish means of communicating, that slowly gain animation as the story picks up. 

Steven’s narration is a constant reminder that Nephrite doesn’t have a voice of her own, and that we’re getting bits and pieces of what actually happened. She can still sing along with him in her own way, and performs a flawless diamond salute, but can’t tell Steven the name of her commander, or how she felt about her crew, or any actual tales of the war. Honestly the most telling image is Nephrite’s very first picture, revealing that she sees herself as herself despite having never met Steven in that body. This is a sentient person, and we’re made to understand that before she reverts to a monster.

Allowing her to reunite with her crew is a brilliant move, because the show needs her to lose, but it would be unspeakably cruel to not give her anything in the process. We don’t get a happy ending, but we don’t wallow in bleakness either, and that’s a hard needle to thread when the subject matter is this horrendous. There are certainly real-world analogues to Nephrite’s plight, namely dementia and PTSD, but Monster Reunion benefits from being ultra-specific to the show’s lore instead of focusing on the same sort of allegory they did in Kiki’s Pizza Delivery Service and will do in Alone at Sea. When the lead character can’t talk and we’re dealing with this much character and plot work, going for a lesson beyond the general value of mercy would’ve probably made the episode collapse.

This is a fascinating episode in regards to Steven’s maturity, because beyond the use of crayons, he goes hard on the cute angle to manipulate the Crystal Gems in a way that seems to undermine his growing maturity; for reference, we’re an episode away from a story about the aftermath of abusive relationships. This childishness is especially interesting when you consider this is where he gets his healing powers back, a sign of his growing power. We see him casually float up to grab Nephrite’s bubble, and he’s an old pro at warping without assistance. All signs point to this being a more developed Steven than his puppy-dog eyes might indicate, and that might be the point.

I don’t want to speak to the writers’ intent given how far away Pool Hopping is, but Garnet’s inability to properly predict the future here is caused by the same problem she has in that episode: she’s seeing the likely outcomes of a Steven who’s still a child. True, there’s also the matter of all three of his guardians reverting to a lighter version of their stubbornness from Monster Buddies given their bias against Corrupted Gems, but I can’t help but think that Garnet would’ve been cool with the outcome we get had she seen it coming. It’s understandable that she might not have been able to predict Steven’s capacity to help, and that the only outcome of freeing Nephrite was mutual suffering.

We’re past the halfway point in Season 3, and are thus nearing the conclusion of the show’s second fifty-odd episode chunk. Major plot elements are winding down in anticipation of the life-altering story that Rose Quartz shattered Pink Diamond, and one of them is the idea of Steven acting like a little kid. This is the last time we’re going to see him act this way at length, even as a ploy, because even though he’s still a kid in Season 4 and beyond, he’s a young teenager who actually feels like a teenager somewhat consistently.

We also get a subtle premonition of Amethyst’s imminent focus, as she’s twice admonished by Pearl for making fun of Nephrite even though she’s not making fun of Nephrite either time. The feuding days of Amethyst and Pearl are long over, but there’s still a power dynamic between them that Monster Reunion quietly reignites. And Garnet is still in charge, ordering Amethyst to poof Nephrite in a way that’s frankly a bit uncharacteristic. Maybe it’s because we haven’t seen an actual fight with the three Gems working as an unfused team since Catch and Release (heck, we haven’t seen a fight against a Corrupted Gem since the Slinker in Reformed, unless you count the big crab in Rising Tides, Crashing Skies), but it sounds strange for Garnet to give a direct attack command. Amethyst is shown here to be the lowest-ranking Crystal Gem, not counting Steven, and this means everything to the season’s final arc.

There are certain things I would’ve loved to see as a fan thirsty for information, namely an actual translation of Nephrite’s writings. But it’s not as if we don’t get the picture(s) from her "conversation” with Steven, and eleven minutes isn’t enough time to tell this story and inject worldbuilding through text. It’s frustrating to not have all the answers, and a common complaint of Steven as a character is his lack of follow-up questions, but in this case he clearly knows the gist, and there’s no reason to think he couldn’t have gotten Pearl to translate offscreen if he was still interested.

So I’m glad we instead got a searing character-centric story that hurts enough that I almost never watch this episode. It takes a while, and it nearly costs Steven everything, but thank goodness we finally get justice for Nephrite.

Future Vision!

Our next chapter in Nephrite’s story is Legs from Here to Homeworld, where we finally learn that she’s a nephrite, that her commander was a hessonite, and that Blue and Yellow Diamond might not have been as intentionally malicious as we thought despite the abominable consequences. It’s crazy how important Nephrite ends up being, essentially paving the way for the Diamonds to begin reforming through Steven wanting to cure her and other Corrupted Gems.

Steven’s desire to write “I’m sorry” in Gem Scribble as he looks at the image of three diamonds, with hindsight, seems to indicate some subconscious knowledge of his indirect culpability in Nephrite’s corruption. Or he doesn’t at all and it’s just a coincidence.

Nephrite uses a white crayon to depict the Corruption Song, indicating White Diamond’s greater responsibility, and ultimately White Diamond’s key role in healing the damage.

We’re the one, we’re the ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Monster Reunion isn’t an episode I love to watch, because I don’t love to watch depictions of unbearable anguish, but it’s still an episode I love. Like Cry For Help, its sheer quality makes up for my infrequent rewatching.

Top Fifteen

Steven and the Stevens

Hit the Diamond

Mirror Gem

Lion 3: Straight to Video

Alone Together

The Return

Jailbreak

The Answer

Sworn to the Sword

Rose’s Scabbard

Mr. Greg

Coach Steven

Giant Woman

Beach City Drift

Winter Forecast

Love ‘em

Laser Light Cannon

Bubble Buddies

Tiger Millionaire

Lion 2: The Movie

Rose’s Room

An Indirect Kiss

Ocean Gem

Space Race

Garnet’s Universe

Warp Tour

The Test

Future Vision

On the Run

Maximum Capacity

Marble Madness

Political Power

Full Disclosure

Joy Ride

Keeping It Together

We Need to Talk

Chille Tid

Cry for Help

Keystone Motel

Catch and Release

When It Rains

Back to the Barn

Steven’s Birthday

It Could’ve Been Great

Message Received

Log Date 7 15 2

Same Old World

The New Lars

Monster Reunion

Like ‘em

Gem Glow

Frybo

Arcade Mania

So Many Birthdays

Lars and the Cool Kids

Onion Trade

Steven the Sword Fighter

Beach Party

Monster Buddies

Keep Beach City Weird

Watermelon Steven

The Message

Open Book

Story for Steven

Shirt Club

Love Letters

Reformed

Rising Tides, Crashing Tides

Onion Friend

Historical Friction

Friend Ship

Nightmare Hospital

Too Far

Barn Mates

Steven Floats

Drop Beat Dad

Too Short to Ride

Restaurant Wars

Kiki’s Pizza Delivery Service

Enh

Cheeseburger Backpack

Together Breakfast

Cat Fingers

Serious Steven

Steven’s Lion

Joking Victim

Secret Team

Say Uncle

Super Watermelon Island

Gem Drill

No Thanks!

     5. Horror Club      4. Fusion Cuisine      3. House Guest      2. Sadie’s Song      1. Island Adventure

(No official promo art, but artist Jonathan Traynor's haunting sketch does just fine.) 

[bazypitchandsimonsnow]

Opposite Day

Rating: T

Genre: Angst/Fluff

Word count: 7881

Summary: Baz Pitch, quiet bookworm, hates his snobby roommate. Little does he know how things can change.

Read on AO3

AN: Okay I know this seems weird but trust me, everything is explained.

Baz

When I started going to Watford, instead of just living there, I looked forward many things. Tough but interesting studies, intelligent teachers, nice people. What I hadn’t looked forward to, nor expected, was my roommate, Simon Wellbelove. Simon is everything expected of an Old Family son. Posh, well spoken, traditionally attractive. He’s everything I’m supposed to be. Except for the whole vampire thing. (Well, I haven’t proven that yet.)

If only that wonderful charm applied to me. I swear he's made it his life's mission to make my life a living hell ever since first year. Insults, tricks, curses, anything stupid and petty. I don't know what I've done to piss him off so much. Maybe he wants to scare me before drinking my blood? Who fucking knows. Either way, I've always had to watch out for him.

Which is definitely why I’m watching him from across the hall at supper now. He's not doing anything out of the ordinary, unfortunately. Just calmly discussing something with his twin sister, Agatha. I try not to focus on his perfectly cut straight corn blond hair. Or his piercing golden brown eyes. Or his flawless pale skin. (That's probably a vampire thing though.)

“He’s plotting something awful,” I mutter. “I can feel it.”

“Sure, Baz. He's a totally evil. Maybe he'll push you down the stairs again. So destructively sinister.” Penny deadpans from across the table, not even glancing up from her textbook.

I humph, pushing my glasses further up my nose. “I’m serious, Pen. He's a vampire, he's evil!”

“You always say that. Everyday, actually.” She gives me a bored look over her own spectacles.

“Oh, shut up.”

Penny scoffs and looks back down. I look at my own book, resisting the urge to look up again. I try to convince myself that urge comes from anticipating his next insult.

Penelope doesn’t know the real reason I watch him. The reason that started in fifth year. But of course she doesn’t know, I haven’t told her. I’ve never told anyone. I mean, how do you say, “hey, I know my tosser roommate who hates me is a blood sucking monster, but I’m definitely gay and more than a bit attracted to him. Because even though he’s an evil vampire, he’s unbelievably hot. Just thought I should clarify that.”

I should tell her though. Penelope is my best friend. Well, more like she’s the only that can keep up with me intellectually and doesn’t mind that I barely speak. So friends by default maybe. But I still like her a lot, and I know she likes me too. She acts all prickly, but when I hurt myself trying a new incantation she’s the first one there with the healing spells.

But I really wish I didn’t feel like this. Because Simon is still a vampire, and a tosser.

“Trying to spy on me for your mother, bookworm?” Case in point.

I don’t look up from what I’m reading, but I know he’s behind me. He almost radiates magic. I’m just as powerful and skilled, but it doesn’t waft off me like it does him. It’s freaky and amazing all at once.

I don't want to look at him either.

“Don’t know what you’re talking about, Wellbelove,” I mutter.

“Oh, you think I don’t see you watching all the time, Pitch? You’re not as invisible as you wish you were. My father’s been challenging your mother in the Coven. Guess she got you to be Mummy’s little eyes and ears to get dirt on his son, hm?”

I growl slightly. Simon chuckles.

“For someone so good at magic, you really can’t speak,” he sneers.

“Fuck off, Wellbelove,” Penny spits. “If you were really as smart as you think you are, you wouldn’t bug the Mage’s son.”

Simon scoffs. “Like he’ll do anything. You’ve got your mother’s magic, Baz, but you certainly don’t have her fire.”

I hate to admit it, but he’s right. I’m not strong and stubborn like my mum, or like him. I’m not the perfect son like him either. Old Family heirs aren’t supposed to be quiet, awkward book nerds. It’s not like I’m unpleasant or anything. I’m a very polite person when necessary. I just prefer staying quiet. My mother is fine with my silence as long as I do well in school (which I do), but my father finds it mortifying. He can’t believe the son he got stuck with. Sometimes I think he wishes Simon was his son, no matter how many times I tell him Simon’s a vampire (which he bloody well is.)

I’m almost done my food, so I just scoop up my near empty plate and my book.

“See you later, Penny,” I say quietly.

She sighs. She knows it’s better for me to just leave. Simon laughs loudly as I walk away. And I’m reminded that, no matter how beautiful he may be, he’s still an arsehole.

The biggest problem with your worst enemy/regrettable crush also being your roommate is that you can’t escape each other. You share a home base. It’s like if the empire and the rebels both operated from the same planet. So I stay in the library as long as possible, reading books I’ve already read a hundred times and practising spells I know I can do. Until the librarian literally shoves me out the door. I stomp up to my room, holding my books like a comfort blanket.

When I enter, I immediately freeze.

Simon is standing on his side of the room, facing away from me. Completely shirtless.

Oh Crowley, why?! Why does the universe insist on torturing my stupid self loathing gay arse? I want to look away, but my eyes are locked on his back. His long, pale back, that moves beautifully as he lifts his arm up in the air to stretch. I try not to think about how I want to run my hands across his shoulders, trace my fingers up his spine, press my lips to every part of his exposed skin.

He whips around to face me, brown eyes burning with rage. But I swear there’s a little embarrassed flush going up his neck. (Didn’t think he was actually capable of an emotion beyond smug contempt or terrible anger.)

“What the fuck, Pitch?!” he yells. “Ever heard of knocking?!”

I growl, fist clenching the doorknob. Right, attractive, but still a dickhead. “It’s my room too, Wellbelove. Don’t have to knock.”

“Fuck off, you peeping tom.”

He throws on the closest sweater, a purple one that says “Watford Lacrosse”. (Agatha plays. At least he’s a supportive brother, that’s a good trait.) I huff and walk to my bed, collapsing on the mattress. I hold my book in front of my face, purposely blocking him from my vision. I can’t look at him without risking a blush. And I don’t want to give him that satisfaction.

I hear him stomp into the bathroom. Once the door’s shut, I can finally breathe. His presence is always suffocating, for more than one reason. Quickly, I change into my pyjamas, then flop down again with my back turned to Simon’s bed. I hear him come back and lay in it. He’s probably facing away. He doesn’t like looking at me as much as I pretend I don't like looking at him.

I wait for a little bit, then turn over. He's just a giant blanket lump with his head sticking out. He always sleeps with far too many blankets (vampires get cold easily). I know he’s probably faking it. Waiting for me to fall asleep so he can sneak off and feed in the catacombs. (I used to follow him there, before I gave up in favour of getting a good amount of sleep.) I’m pretty sure he’d drink all my blood right now if he thought he could get away with it. Sadly for him, I’m too important to die. Lucky me. But I know he'll probably get so furious or hungry one day he'll forget who I am.

Godammit, I’m so weak. I stay there, letting myself gaze at his pale blond hair, watching how the moonlight reflects off the yellow strands, thinking about how I want to run my fingers through it. Nicks and Slicks, why do I hate myself so much? Of all the people I could be attracted to, I pick my worst enemy. The one person who will never want me back. I’ve felt like this for three years, and it’s only ever been torture.

Fuck this. I turn over again. Maybe I can’t get rid of these feelings, but I can avoid them. I can not look at him. But when I close my eyes, all I see are brown eyes and blond hair.

“Basilton! Stop staring!”

I flinch at my full name. Penny only calls me that when she’s particularly annoyed.

“For the last time, I’m not staring,” I mutter.

“You’re a filthy liar Basil, and you know it. You've been staring all class. Now stop it and help me with this potion.” She turns back to her cauldron. I really should be helping her, but I’m also bored. I’ve never liked doing potions. They're too easy.

I humph and lean my cheek on top of her head. (I love that she’s so much shorter than me.) She growls, trying to push me off. “Get off me, you ridiculous tree boy!”

“But I’m tired, Pen,” I whine in a wonderfully over dramatic fashion.

“I hate you so much.”

“Yet here you are working with me.”

She jabs my side, finally forcing me off. “Don’t let it go to your head, Pitch. You’re just the smartest kid in the class after me.”

I roll my eyes. “Sure. Just you watch, Penelope, I’ll beat you to top of the class by the end of the year.”

Penelope smirks and lifts her head up haughtily. “M-hm. We’ll see.”

We may seem mean, but we never say anything nice to each other. It's just how we've always interacted. I don’t think I’ve ever actually called her my friend. I guess it’s just a mutual understanding thing.

She goes back to the potion, and I subtly (at least I hope subtly) look at Simon. He’s working with his sister, of course. Those two are inseparable. Their whole family is weirdly isolationist. My mum says that they practically disappeared for five years after Simon and Agatha were born. I wish I knew why. (Penny says I’m nosy. I say I’m naturally curious.)

“Baz, pass me the sage.”

I push the bottle to her, eyes still fixed on Simon. There’s a constant war raging in my brain when I look at him. On one hand: arsehole, vampire, constant reminder of my own failings as an Old Family son. But on the other: downright gorgeous, brilliant in magic and everything else, intimidating in a way that’s weirdly sexy. Dear Merlin, I am definitely disturbed.

“Nicks and Slicks!” Penny shrieks.

My head whips around to her. Our cauldron is bubbling over with thick grey smoke. A high pitched sound increases in intensity, then the whole thing explodes in a deafening pop. I stumble back as I’m splattered with grey goop. Penny yelps as she’s similarly caked in the sludgy stuff.

I’m frozen, somewhere between mortified and disgusted. Fuck, I gave her the wrong bottle! I was staring at Simon and passed Penny the wrong bottle. Crowley, I'm such a fuck up.

Everyone is silent for awhile. But someone has to break the quiet. Of course it’s him.

Simon lets out a loud, hearty laugh. “Aleister Crowley,” he sputters. “Nice job, Pitch. You’ve created a new fast form of wall painting. Maybe stand out of the way next time!”

I hear someone smack him, probably Agatha. (She may be snooty but she certainly doesn’t share his cruelty. She’s the nice twin to his evil.) I’m so glad my glasses are mostly covered with goop right now. I really don’t want him to see me cry, even if it’s in frustration and embarrassment.

“Uh,” our teacher says, “Mr. Grimm-Pitch and Miss Bunce, why don’t you go to the washroom and clean up? Then we’ll deal with the mess here.”

“Okay,” I say weakly.

Penelope and I both walk out with our heads down. I wipe off my glasses on my sleeve, which gives me a clear view of Penny. Oh shit. She’s hunched in like a bull ready to charge, teeth clenched in a scowl.

“Um...Penny?”

“What?!” she snaps.

“Are you mad?”

She stops and lets out a long breath. I stop too.

“Am I mad?” Penny is practically seething. “Am I mad?! For fuck’s sake, Baz, mad doesn’t even begin to describe what I’m feeling. Rageful, furious, ready to knock you flat on your stupid arse, those are closer!”

I look down at the ground. There’s a pit in my stomach, which I probably deserve. “I’m sorry.”

“Yeah, you’ve said that before, Basilton. Yet you keep obsessing over your goddamn roommate, instead of paying attention in class, or just...talking to me.”

I huff. “You know I don’t like talking, Pen.”

“That’s not what I mean!” She punctuates her words with a stomp, then she rubs the bridge of her nose under her grey smudged glasses. “I mean, we hang out, and if you talk at all, you talk about Simon. Vampire this, plotting that. It’s ridiculous. He’s takes top priority no matter what.” She looks up at me with round, sad eyes. “So what I’m trying to say is, for someone with only one friend, you seem pretty intent on ignoring her.”

My throat dries up. Oh Merlin, I’m a horrible person. I was so wrapped up in my little world I forgot about her. It’s terrible, I’m terrible. I want to tell her that, but like always, I can’t find the words.

“Penny I-I’m really- I didn’t mean to- You’re-”

She sighs and raises her hand. “Y’know what? Forget it, Baz. Come talk to me when you’re ready to actually be my friend.”

She walks off, and I just stand there like an idiot. I can’t believe I’ve been hurting her this long. I’m her friend, her only one. And there’s no doubt she’s my favourite person. So why the hell haven’t I been acting like it?

“Forget where the bathroom is, Basilton?” Simon muses from behind me. Why he’s out here is beyond me. “Did your disastrous concoction destroy brain cells as well as clothing?”

I whip around to glare at him. He’s grinning ear to ear with his impeccably white teeth. And I hate him more than ever right now.

“Fuck you,” I grumble and stomp away. Simon scoffs once, then walks in the opposite direction.

That does it. Tonight, I’ll follow him to the catacombs. He won’t be expecting me so I can catch him off guard. I’ll prove once and for all that perfect posh wonderful Simon Wellbelove is a vampire. That I was right all along. Then father won’t want him instead of me, and I can stop being so distracted, and finally end my masochistic crush on his stupid evil arse.

Yes, it’ll solve everything. I know it.

This time, I wait for him to fall asleep. I haven’t done this since fifth year. I just lay in bed, eyes closed, breathing softly. He doesn’t move for a long time. And for a brief second I’m worried he’s not going, and nothing in my life with be solved.

But soon I hear a rustle and faint footsteps. (Simon has a weirdly light gait.) A few minutes after the door shuts, I rush up to follow. I still remember how to follow Simon. He’s not as discreet as he thinks he is. Out of Mummer’s House, to the White Chapel, and into the catacombs. I keep a calculated distance and just listen to his ligh footsteps. Soon I hear them stop. I slowly step closer and closer, creeping through the dim tunnel. And then, I freeze.

He’s crouching on the ground, hunched over like an animal. There’s a disgusting munching and slurping sound. I gasp far too loudly. Simon whips his head around. There’s a little red around his mouth, a rat clutched in his hands, and blood stained white fangs pushing out over his lips.

I can’t move. I’m not sure what to do. After all these years of trying to prove that Simon Wellbelove is a vampire, I’m finally faced with it. And I have no fucking clue what to do.

But he does.

He growls and lunges forward with his inhuman speed. He wraps his hand around my throat, glaring sharply. He looks more like a wild animal than a person. I gag, and he lifts me up far above him. Fuck he’s strong. I scrabble at his hand, but his grip is iron.

I go for my wand, which should be in my back pocket. But...oh fuck. Fuck, I forgot my wand! I’m being strangled by a vampire and I forgot my wand! Shit, after all these years, he really is going to kill me.

“S-Simon,” I choke out. (I hate that I’ve resorted to begging for my life.) “Don’t, please.”

Suddenly, the humanity returns to his face. His expression falls, brows going up, eyes widening, and mouth falling open. As suddenly as he picked me up, he drops me to the ground. I collapse in the gasping mess. Simon steps away quickly. I look up again, he still seems distressed. Or maybe even full on scared. I slowly stand. We stare at each other for a long time. Wide eyed grey and brown locked together.

“I was right,” I finally breathe out. “Aleister Crowley, I was right.”

Simon snarls, lips pulling back harshly and glare narrowing. “Yes, Pitch, you’re right. I’m a vampire, a filthy blood sucking monster. You've finally got proof. Congratu-fucking-lations!”

“But...you didn’t kill me. You-You could’ve, but you didn’t.”

“Of course not,” he scoffs. “You just surprised me and I panicked. I’m not a murderer, you blundering idiot.”

The statement hits me in my core. He says it so viciously, so angrily, but it clashes with the kindness in his words. He says wouldn’t kill me. And strangely I believe him. I mean, I have to. I’m still standing, aren't I?

I walk towards him, but he turns away sharply, leaning back against the wall and showing only his profile. His fingers fly to his mouth. He chews at his nails furiously.

“Oh Crowley, Merlin, and Morgana, I’m dead,” he mutters. “You’re going to tell everyone and Headmistress Pitch will throw me out of Watford and snap my wand and pull out my fangs. Oh god, then Mum and Dad will have to turn me out. They’ll have no other choice!” He slides down the wall, heel tapping the ground rapidly

I kneel down next to him and slowly reach towards him. “N-No they won’t. They wouldn’t do that. You’re their son-”

“No I’m not!” He slams his fist into the brick, making it crack. His voice is thunder in the cramped dark hallway. I jump a little, hand shooting back to my side. Quickly he goes back pulling at his hair and gnawing his nails.

“What do you mean?” I say. “Of course you’re their son.”

He groans, scowling as he tilts his head back. “I’m not. Not in blood anyway.” He sighs shakily. “I’m adopted, Baz.”

My eyebrows shoot up. What the fuck? I can’t process what he’s saying. Adopted?! Simon Wellbelove is adopted?! “But...you and Agatha are twins. You two look exactly alike.”

Simon chuckles sadly. “Yeah, it’s uncanny, right? Too uncanny. Our- Well, biologically just her parents spell me to look like her. Been doing it for thirteen years. Agatha touches it up every few weeks.” He turns slightly, sardonic smile showing. “They do a pretty good job. Can barely tell I’m a total fraud, right?”

Wow, and I thought I was the one with a self deprecating streak. He keeps staring ahead, leg jittering angrily. Crowley, he looks so freaked out, and just...tired. Dark bags hang under his brown eyes. There are stress wrinkles on his usually perfect face. I hate seeing him like this. My gut hurts with regret, because it’s all my fault. I made him feel so sad and scared. Just because I wanted to help myself at his expense. Sure, he's a bully and an arsehole, but he doesn't deserve to have his life destroyed.

Slowly, I sit with my back to the wall too. I reach towards him again and place a hand on his shoulder. Surprisingly, he relaxes, letting out a slow breath. I get brave and put whole arm around him. He leans against me, head on my shoulder and knee touching mine. For the first time, I realise that he’s actually shorter, by at least three inches. And he feels particularly small against me right now. I hold him, letting him breathe slowly in and out to regain his composure. After many moments of silence, I find my voice again.

“Wanna talk about it?” I whisper.

“About what?” he replies under his breath.

“Anything. You can tell me whatever you like. I promise I won’t say anything.”

He shifts uncomfortably, then holds up his hand, pinky sticking out. “Pinky swear it?”

I chuckle slightly. “Seriously? Are you 7?”

He shrugs, gnawing on his bottom lip. “I don’t know. It’s what Agatha and I do. Cause we know magic can keep you from breaking a promise no matter what. But doing this means we really trust each other, that we don’t need magic to make sure. So...pinky swear?”

Merlin, I can’t believe how adorable he is. Cold, mean, terrible Simon Wellbelove makes pinky swears with his sister. And believes in them more than magic. I reach forward and wrap my finger around his.

“Pinky swear,” I say.

Simon smiles softly and shakes our hands once. We let go, and he goes back to leaning on my shoulder. He lets a long breath.

“Merlin, where to start?” He mutters.

I shrug. “Maybe with start with the vampire or adopted thing? One or the other, I guess.”

He chuckles sadly. “Well, they’re sort of intertwined. I guess...I guess it starts with my parents. My biological ones. I barely remember them, actually. I know they were mages but that’s about it. We lived in a cabin in the middle of nowhere. The only other people we ever saw were the Wellbeloves. They were friends with my parents, practically lived with us. Agatha and I would always play together while they would talk. It was fine. We were...fine. “

Simon's face pulls together like he's in pain. “But one day, when I was five, we all went for a walk. Us and the Wellbeloves. I was running up ahead. All of a sudden some guy jumped out at us. It- it all happened so fast. I was closest so he went for me first. He grabbed me and then...well I don’t remember much. Just the searing pain of his teeth in my neck. I passed out, and when I woke up, I was back in the cabin. The Wellbeloves told me the man was gone, but so were my parents. The two of them covered me in healing spells but nothing could fix what had already been done. What I was changing into.” He shivers a bit at those words. “Mum and Da- well, Mr. and Mrs. Wellbelove back then, told me they were taking me back to their house. And that from now on I was their son, they were my mum and dad, and Agatha was my sister. I would’ve questioned it more but, well, I was five. I just did what I was told. Stupid, right?”

“No, of course not," I say, shaking my head. "You were just a child, it makes perfect sense.”

He leans closer to me and I swear my heart stops. “Thanks.”

I rub my lips together. Something is still bugging me. But I feel weird asking it.

“What is it, Baz?” Simon says, almost playfully. “I can hear you thinking up there.”

“It’s just- It’s that- I’m wondering if...”

“Spit it out, Pitch.”

I groan and roll my eyes. “Fuck off. I’m just wondering...I’ve seen the Book. My mum’s showed it to me more than once. Your name is there under ‘Simon Wellbelove.’ And I mean, your fath- well, adopted father, is influential, but even he can’t manipulate the Book. How can your name be there? Sorry if that’s too prying...”

Simon shakes his head against my shoulder. “Not, it’s alright. You’re correct. Agatha did have a real twin named Simon. But he got sick at only a week old. That’s when the Wellbeloves went to my parents. Mrs. Wellbelove had heard of my mother and knew she was a good healer. But she couldn’t save him.”

“That’s when the Wellbeloves became recluse?”

“M-hm. They didn’t even tell anyone he’d died. Just sort of...pulled away from the World of Mages. Just stayed with my biological parents. My mother had me not long after other Simon died. Which makes me two and a half weeks younger than Agatha, actually. I was named after him, the real Simon Wellbelove. But because my biological parents were so isolated, I was never written into the Book. So when they died, it was surprisingly easy for the Wellbeloves to pretend I was their Simon all along. I guess it all worked out in the end.”

Simon sighs. I look at him and realise his eyes are closed, all scrunched together, like he’s trying to block out the pain. I don’t blame him. I can’t imagine what it would be like growing up like that. I mean, the Wellbeloves most likely treat him well, but there’s also probably a part of him that feels like a replacement for their dead son. I just keep holding him. It's the best I can do.

“Part of me can’t believe you’re telling me all this,” I say with a little laugh, trying to break the tension. “Always thought you hated me.”

Simon inhales sharp. Shit, I’ve fucked up again. “I don’t, y’know. Hate you. Actually...” He looks down ashamed. “I’m sort of jealous of you.”

My eyes bug out more than they should. What the hell? I blink a few times confused. “What? Seriously?”

Simon nods nervously. “Yeah. I mean, everyone thinks I was born into this Old Family world, but I know I’m fake. I’m always scared I’ll slip up and people will see I’m a fraud. So I just try to do what everyone expects of an Old Family son. Be cold, sharp tongued, charming. But you...you know you’re a part of that world no matter what. You can do whatever the fuck you want and not be worried someone will realise you’re not who you say you are. Crowley, I wish I could do that.”

I look at him curiously. “Is that why you act like such a dick to me? Because you’re pretending? And...you’re jealous?”

He keeps looking down, but I can see an embarrassed flush on his face. “Yeah. It’s not an excuse, I know. I’m sorry. You’re a nice person, you don’t deserve my crap. I’m just, I’m really sorry.”

It’d be so easy to hate him, like I have for years. To tell him that he’s a dickhead for taking out his shit on me and I never want to see his stupid, fake, lying face ever again. But I’m not going to do that. Because that would hurt him, and I don’t want to be another source of his pain. Even more important, seeing him now, I think deep down he's a genuinely good person, and he's genuinely sorry.

Plus...I really like this, what we're doing now. Being kind, being open, actually talking to each other like real people. I definitely like it a whole lot better than fighting.

“I accept your apology,” I say. “But y’know, I don’t think you have to pretend. People here aren’t as observant as you think they are, I promise.”

He smiles slightly, head finally lifting up a bit. “You really think so?”

“Yeah. I mean, you’re white as a sheet and have unnaturally clear skin, but I’m the only one who figured out that you’re a vampire. Everyone else just assumes you’re another extremely pale Brit. Most people are seriously idiotic.”

Simon laughs loudly at that. It’s deep and genuine. It makes my stomach drop. “Okay, very true. Maybe you have a point.” He sighs, leaning his head back on the brick wall. “You know, I don’t even remember what I used to look like.”

My jaw drops. “Really?”

“Yeah. Like, I have a vague idea that I wasn’t this pale before being bit, or blond before I was spelled. But nothing that concrete. My family never lets the illusion slip, which I understand, of course. Still, I do wonder what I really look like.”

An idea crosses my brain. A terrible, wonderful idea. No, it probably wouldn’t work. The Wellbeloves have pretty strong magic. But...I’m a Grimm-Pitch, dammit. I have the fire of two strong families in my blood. I might as well put it to good use.

“I-I could try, y’know,” I say weakly. “Reversing the spell. I mean, I might be powerful enough.”

He looks at me with wide wondering doe eyes. It’s adorable. “Seriously? You think so?”

“Yeah. I-it’s worth a shot right?”

Simon nods vigorously like an overexcited child. “Yeah! Yeah definitely. Get your wand and do it now!”

Oh right. My wand. I chuckle nervously, rubbing the back of my neck. “Um, I actually left my wand upstairs. That’s why I couldn’t attack you.”

He looks at me blankly, then bursts out laughing. “Oh Merlin! And here I thought you were being noble! But you were just being a forgetful idiot!”

I huff. Maybe he is still a bit of an arsehole. “Whatever. I wasn’t going to attack you anyway. Honestly, I had no idea what I was going to do if I found you.”

He lifts a single brow. “Did you expect this?”

“No,” I say with a small chuckle. “Certainly not.”

He sighs and pushes off the wall, standing on his feet in a flash. “Well, let’s get going. I’m dying to see what I actually look like. Well, dying more than usual, considering I’m already dead.”

I stand too, facing him. “You really think you’re dead?”

“Yeah. Don’t you?”

I think about it for a second, rolling the idea around in my mind. Then shake my head. “No, not really. You’d be pretty lively for a corpse.”

He smiles, his mouth a thin curved line. “Thanks. Not many people would agree with you.”

I shrug, shoulders coming to my burning ears. “Well, most people don’t really know you. They’d be idiots to think otherwise.”

His smile morphs into a toothy grin. It’s lively and joyful. He looks beautiful.

Simon reaches forward, taking my hand in his. He feels about room temperature, but I guess that’s the blood. My heart leaps up and down. It hits me that tonight, for the first time, my feelings for him go beyond simple physical attraction. I feel something a lot deeper, a lot better. And I never want it to stop.

“Now c’mon.” He tugs me towards the exit. “Let’s see the real me.”

We get back to Mummer’s House very quickly. Simon never lets go of my hand. When we reach our room, he still doesn’t release me (not that I’m complaining). It’s only when we sit does he let his grip drop, picking at his nails instead. I take my wand from the bedside table where I accidentally left it. Crowley, I’m shaking so bad. What if I fuck this up? What if I can’t do it? He’s so excited, I can’t disappoint him. I don’t want to hurt him.

We sit at the end of my bed facing each other. Simon has turned on one lamp, the soft light illuminating one half of the room. I keep my hands in my lap, fiddling with the leather handle of my wand. He's chewing on his lip furiously.

“I’m still not sure if this will work, Simon,” I say quietly.

He nods slowly. “I know, Baz. But I want to at least try. Alright?”

I nod too. “Alright. You ready?”

Simon takes a deep breath, closes his eyes, and squares his shoulders. “Do it.”

I raise my wand and try to force my hand to stop shaking. Cautiously, I point at his face.

“I see your true colours.” I put as much power as possible into my words. My magic washes over him. I can almost feel some sort of invisible layer catch ablaze, char, and blow away. Simon shudders slightly.

It starts with his hair. The straight blond ends just below his ears turn in slightly, then they pull up and become full on ringlets. Suddenly, he has a gorgeous, wild thatch of curls all around his whole head. The corn yellow fades away, replaced with shining bronze. It glows gold in the lamplight. And...Aleister Crowley, he has freckles. Actual honest to Merlin freckles and moles. A practical constellation of them cover his face and neck. I can’t help but stare, silently counting them. Three moles on his right cheek, two below his left ear, and one under his left eye. They look darker than they probably should on his ghostly complexion. But I like them. Slowly, Simon opens his eyes, and my breath hitches. They’re not golden brown anymore, but blue. Not a typically interesting blue though. Not cornflower, not navy, not with a shot of hazel or violet. Just...blue.

But they’re even more beautiful than before.

Simon looks at me, wondering and a bit worried. I try to stifle the laugh bubbling out of my throat but I can’t. It comes out as the smallest giggle. Simon frowns, now bronze eyebrows pushing together adorably.

“What is it?” He says, voice quite nervous. “Is my face all fucked up now? I hope not. I like my face.”

I shake my head vigorously. “No no, certainly not. It’s just, you have freckles. It's kind of funny.”

He gasps, jaw practically dropping to the floor. “I do?!” He dashes off towards the bathroom. I follow, just in time to see him lean over the sink, peering into the mirror. “Aleister fucking Crowley, I do!”

He laughs loudly and genuinely, tracing a finger over the little specks on his cheeks. I’ve never seen him so happy before. He runs his hand through his now thick hair, pushing the curls back and letting them bounce forward. He does it over and over again like a child with a new toy. Slowly, he leans forward, pulling his lids apart slightly.

“I’ve got blue eyes,” he whispers in awe. “Wow, didn’t expect that.”

“They look good,” I say, before I can think it through. Simon turns to me, smirking. I look down in an attempt to hide my blush. “But, y’know, it’s not like you didn’t look good before. I-I mean, you’ve always looked good, and you look really good now, and-”

“Baz!” He steps forward and grabs my hand, purposefully lacing our fingers together. I let out a shaky breath. “It’s alright. I know what you’re trying to say.”

I chuckle. “Okay. Okay, good.”

“You really aren’t good with words huh?”

“Yeah. Unless they’re a spell. I don’t like talking to people. Though,” I rub my thumb over the back of his smooth hand. “I like talking to you. When you’re not being a tosser.”

He giggles. (It’s so cute.) “That seems to improve conversations. But, yeah, I like talking to you too. You’re the first person outside of my family I’ve felt truly comfortable with. It’s...really nice.”

Oh Merlin, I want to kiss him so bad, even more than usual. Because I know now that he’s not evil, or a monster, or even an arsehole, really. He’s just...a boy. A stupidly gorgeous boy, with blue eyes and bronze curls.

We’re so close. How did that happen? His face is inches from mine. Our hands are still locked. He’s not smiling anymore. His mouth is just hanging open, half lidded blue eyes wandering around my face. I notice that he looks at my lips for far too long. Oh Merlin, is he thinking the same thing I am? No, he can’t be. Right?

“Baz...,” he says.

Screw it. I kiss him.

He gasps sharply, and for a second I think I’ve made a huge mistake. But then he pushes back with equal force, shoving his fingers in my hair. I grab his waist and pull him closer. His mouth is cold. But I should’ve guessed that. He pulls a bit on my hair and I can’t help but groan. I press my hand into the small of his back, making him arch against me. He’s doing a nice thing with my chin that makes all my thoughts melt away. All but one that is: I’m kissing Simon Wellbelove. Aleister Crowley, I’m living a charmed life.

When breathing becomes too difficult, we pull apart slowly. My mouth is still tingling. Simon’s eyes slowly open. He looks at me with awe, kiss-red lips slightly parted, pupils blown wide. A smile splits across my face. He smiles right back. We giggle to ourselves, foreheads tapped together, just soaking in the absurdity of this situation. We’re worst enemies. And we just snogged.

“You know,” he says between giggles, “that was my first kiss.”

I snort out a louder laugh. “Really? Wow. Mr. Wellbelove the Popular is a kiss virgin.”

“Oh shut up.” He’s blushing. (It’s cute.) (Merlin and Morgana, I think I’m allowed tell him that them that now.)

“You’re so cute," I whisper. His blush only increases. "And in the spirit of full honesty...that was my first kiss too.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, really.” I pull back so I can look at him, carefully pushing a soft brown curl off his freckled forehead. “Truth is, I’ve only ever wanted to kiss you, Simon.”

His beautiful perfect mouth opens fall open. Merlin, his face is almost completely pink.

“I- Uh, okay. That’s...wow.”

“Now who’s the shitty speaker?” I chuckle and cock an eyebrow.

He groans, rolling his eyes. “Still you, dickhead.”

“Well, I can’t disagree with that.” I lean forward again. “Since I’d definitely like to stop talking right now.”

Simon grins, then surges toward me, consuming my mouth in his. And I’ve officially died and gone to heaven.

I don’t know what time it is. I've sort of lost track.

We kissed until our mouths were sore. Simon held himself on all fours above me and made me reach for his mouth. Which I did, and I know I would again and again. At one point he joked about accidentally Turning me with all his saliva. (Though he did seem a bit genuinely worried.) Either way, it was one of the best experiences of my life.

We’re laying in my bed now. Simon plays with my fingers between us. I trace over the moles on his face. Though neither of us say it, we both know I’ll have to spell his appearance tomorrow. It’s our reality. But reality can wait just a bit longer. For now, I can lay here and marvel at a particular mole on Simon’s cheek. I want to kiss it. So I do. It makes him let out the most adorable giggle.

“Y'know," he whispers, "I think my biological mother had freckles."

I pull back, still cupping his face. “Hm. You think so?”

“Yeah. Her specific appearance is still fuzzy, but I remember that she had spots on her face. Like I do, I guess” He holds my hand loosely, swiping his thumb over the back of it. “I’m starting to remember a bit more about her now. My dad too. Maybe seeing my real face triggered the memories or something. She was blonde and freckly. He had a moustache and wore a lot of green. They both had blue eyes. They looked nice. They were nice.” His face crumples, mouth twisting and eyes closing. I scoot forward, bumping his nose against mine.

“I’m sorry. It...it must be hard.”

“Yeah, it is. But...I'd rather remember the painful stuff than not remember them at all.” I run my fingers through his hair, attempting to comfort him. It seems to work though. Simon sighs, pressing his face into my shoulder. We stay like that for awhile. I'd stay like this forever if he needed me to.

After a long silence, I feel a chuckle reverberate down my arm. “You know," he whispers, pulling back so we're face to face again, "out of all the things I can remember about about my mother, I remember her telling me about my middle name. Weird huh?”

I raise an eyebrow. “Are you going to tell me what it is?”

“Well, it’s silly. That’s what she told me. That everyone in her family, including the two of us, have silly middle names.”

“Stop teasing and just tell me, arsehole.”

He grins all the way to his ears. His blue eyes sparkle with mischievous, almost joyous energy. (Yeah, there’s no way he’s dead.) He whispers one word, so quiet I know it’s only meant for me.

“Snow.”

When I enter the dining hall for breakfast, I see Penny immediately. She's hard to miss honestly, what with the bright purple hair. My chest feels unbelievably tight. Well, no time to be a coward. (And I am feeling particularly brave after last night.) I march towards her.

“Mind if I sit here?” I say, willing my voice to not shake.

“Depends,” Penny snorts. “Are you going to stare at Wellbelove the whole time and pretend I don't exist?”

“No. Because that would mean ignoring my best friend.” Her spine straightens at that. I guess it really is the first time I’ve said it out loud. “And considering she’s actually the only friend I have, that would be stupid. Wouldn't you agree?”

She turns her head ever so slightly. She's still scowling, but I can see the angry lines of her face softening. “You are pretty stupid.”

I sit down and cautiously put an arm around her shoulders. “Yeah, I know.”

She hesitates for a moment, but leans her against me. “You’re my stupid best friend though.”

My heart swells at that. It really does feel good to hear it said out loud. “Yes, your stupid best friend who's very sorry for yesterday.”

“Good. You should be.” She tilts up to look at me. “Promise to stop with the Wellbelove obsession?”

Crowley, I hope I'm not blushing. I'm going to tell her of course, but I can't right now. What do I say though? “Well, actually Pen, I-”

“Mind if we sit here?”

Both of us look up, my arm falling off her. Simon is standing there grinning, with Agatha just behind him. She’s looking very worriedly at her brother. Like she’s scared that he's gone completely fucking insane. (Well, he must seem so to her.)

“Uhh...” For once Penny’s the speechless one.

“Of course, Simon,” I say calmly. He smiles wider. Penny gasps so hard she chokes. Agatha’s eyes bug out of her pretty face.

“Thank you, Baz,” he replies as he sits opposite us. Agatha sits too, still looking shell shocked.

I let myself gaze at him for a bit, now that I’m allowed to. He's back to being a brown eyed, clear skinned, straight haired blond now. I spelled him this morning (very well if you ask me). But he quietly asked me if I'd take it off tonight. He said he wants to get used to his real appearance. I said I would, of course

Penny gives me a side look that says, ‘what’s going on?’ I pat her hand to reply, ‘I’ll tell you later.’

“So how ready do you feel for the magic words today?” Simon asks, leaning forward, softly smiling. I’ve never seen him so pleasant and warm in public. He’s never let himself, I guess. Now he’s not as afraid anymore. I'm glad. I definitely prefer him like this.

“Pretty ready,” I say. “I mean, anything goes badly I'll just try song lyrics. Those usually do the job.”

“Oh Agatha did that once.”

Agatha inhales sharply. “Simon! Shut up!”

Penny leans forward, grin positively shit eating. “Oh there is a story behind this I know I’m going to love.”

Simon smiles back in the exact same way. It’s scary how equally pleased they look. Maybe they could get along, even be friends. That’d be fantastic.

“We were 13,” Simon starts. “Agatha was going through her emo phase and became obsessed with My Chemical Romance. She literally blasted it so loud I could hear it in my room on the floor above. But one day the music stopped, and there was this loud explosion. Mum, Dad, and I ran to her room. There stood Agatha, wand pointed at her closet, covered in sticky pitch black powder. All her clothes were drenched in the same stuff. Turned out she tried to spell her wardrobe black with the MCR lyric ‘so darken your clothes.' But something obviously went wrong. It took days for Agatha to wash all the black off herself, and weeks to get it out of her clothes. Mum made us scrub them in wash basins in the backyard!”

Penelope throws her head back laughing. I snicker without shame. Agatha groans, rubbing her temples with a scowl. Simon barks out a laugh. His eyes blaze with the same life they had last night.

“That’s amazing!” Penny says, wiping a laughing tear from her eye.

“I know right?” Simon replies. “Still the funniest thing to happen in the Wellbelove household to date.”

“I thought we agreed never to speak of that ever again,” Agatha grumbles.

Simon knocks her shoulder. “Oh come on, Ags, it’s hilarious. And at least you got over the MCR phase. Most people aren’t so lucky.”

“Oh tell me about it!” Penny groans. “My sister is going through it right now and it’s the worst.”

She and Agatha fall into a mutual commiseration over loud emo music. They seem to be getting along. Simon beams at them, and rightly so. It's wonderful that my best friend and his sister like each other. Whatever Simon and I are doing, whatever we have, it will certainly work better if both Penny and Agatha are in our corner. And if they’re not arguing in said corner.

Suddenly, I feel something tap my foot, a shock running through my nervous system. I look up to see Simon’s eyes locked on me, half his mouth tugged up in a smile. He looks so soft, so kind. I realise it’s his toe touching mine. A blush crawls up my cheeks. But I’m not embarrassed, because for once I don’t have to be ashamed of what I feel, and neither does he.

I love it.

AN: So yeah, my take on opposite day. Hope it made sense to you guys haha. 

Tbh I thought about making Simon just the adopted son of some random made up Old Family but honestly it made more sense if it was one we already knew. Plus it's pretty clear that the Wellbeloves adore Simon so they'd probably take him in. Agatha and Simon would be great siblings anyway. I always got the impression they loved each other more like a brother and sister or friends would, but social/family pressures made them think they had to date. So yeah, that's why I did that. Honestly I had way too much fun writing this. Hope you enjoyed it :D

Tomorrow: cooking/baking!