#Dali aura

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Trick or treat!!

You received seeds, berries, acorns and chestnuts !

@i-have-too-much-time

These tricks or treats ask events are not from this year ! I couldn't finish them all these past years so I'm doing them now ! If you’re confused at why you don’t remember sending that message, that’s why !

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Applause for the power couple !!

[scuttling]

I Can Handle Me A Dangerous Man - Ch 2

Fandom: True Blood (TV) Pairings: Eric Northman/Female Reader or Eric Northman/OFC Word Count: 4,441 Tags: 18+, NSFW in later chapters, it's gonna get real nasty Summary: Sookie's cousin returns to Bon Temps, and Eric wants her... to work for him. She says yes.

1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6

She finds herself at Fangtasia again a few days later—what else does she have to do, unemployed and ostracized as she is?—with another martini in her hand as she stares up at a surrealist painting hanging on the wall. It’s larger than life, with tigers and an elephant and a nude woman lounging in the sea, but she’s afraid she can make no emotional connection to it. Dali is weird.

“Now you’re just teasing me,” Eric greets in a low, even tone as he seems to materialize beside her, his eyes also on the painting. This time he’s wearing a black v-neck sweater, and it makes the muscles of his arms look even better, if that’s possible.

“Teasing you?” she asks, looking up at him, and he turns to her and scans her body the way he seems to every time they meet. It would irritate her, if it were anyone else, but having Eric’s attention is hugely flattering, and she can’t bring herself to dismiss the way it makes her feel.

“Coming into my bar again… looking like that.” He says it like she’s a forbidden snack dangled in front of him, and she ponders it.

She is technically fully covered in a maroon turtleneck, black miniskirt, tights and boots, which doesn’t seem all that tempting… until she considers that he’s nearly fully covered too and has quite literally never been more attractive to her. He buzzes in her ear again—his mind, his aura, whatever the hell it is—and she finally remembers that he’s said something, wets her lips to speak.

“There’s no vampire bar in Bon Temps, or I’d probably be there,” she says with a sip of her drink. Okay, maybe not, she thinks as he leans into her space, tilting his body so that it’s him she’s looking up at instead of the art. No, either way she would probably find herself drawn here, to him.

“Why? Do you like vampire blood?” he asks seriously, almost like an interrogation, and she shakes her head, frowns.

“I don’t do drugs, and no vampire has ever offered it to me.” She wants to make sure she covers all her bases, is transparent in her knowledge of not only V as a commodity, but the ritual of bloodsharing that vampires sometimes perform with their companions. “Regardless, blood isn’t the reason I came.” 

“Did you come for me?” he asks, the tone of his voice the same but his expression more relaxed. She nods her head.

“Yes. I’ll do it – consult for you, work for you, whatever you want to call it.” It took her about two days to decide, then two more to get up the courage to come down to the bar and ask for what she believes she deserves—a problem she’s never had professionally before. Her answer earns her a change in posture, and Eric seems gratified by her response.

“You will? I’m pleased to hear that,” he says, and she nods her head, trying to ignore the way it warms her all over to know he’s happy with her choice.

“I have some stipulations,” she tells him directly, not intending to mince words, and he carefully takes the glass from her hand and sets it on a table behind them. The two middle aged humans who occupy it look absolutely thrilled at this sighting of a vampire in the wild, which makes Cam want to smile.

“I would expect no less. Let’s go into my office so we can be candid,” he suggests, gesturing toward the back of the bar, and he leads her through the crowd of bodies to the cluttered, unremarkable office with a hand hovering at her lower back.

“So what is it that you want from me? Explicitly,” she asks when he closes the door. “You know I’m a lawyer, so specific language is kind of my thing.” He pulls a chair out for her, then takes the seat on the other side of the desk and leans across it to speak.

“I would like to be able to call on you when I have a situation that could benefit from your gift—and I would like to be the only vampire who calls on you. That’s non-negotiable.” 

She’d expected the first part—not so much the second—but it’s nothing she’s unwilling to give.

“I can agree to exclusivity, but keep in mind that occasionally I will hear or see things whether I want to or not; if I come upon a vampire matter, I’ll inform you and let you decide how to proceed. If it’s not a vampire matter, I’ll provide the information to whomever I see fit.”

“Okay, yes,” Eric agrees easily, and then he backtracks for a moment, looking curious. “Hear or see?”

“Well, thoughts aren’t always just a string of words, you know? Often they include images, memories, even vague feelings. What I do, it’s kind of a mixture of all those things.”

“That’s… good to know,” he says, and he taps his fingers against the desk. “It’s also important to me that you make yourself available when I need you; as you know, I only do business between sunset and sunrise. If I’m calling upon you, I have deemed it important, and I expect to take priority over other things you may be doing—anything short of a life and death emergency.”

“That’s fair,” she says, though she wonders if they should take a moment to formally define life and death emergency in case it comes up in the future. “And that’s it?”

“That’s it,” he says, leaning back in his chair. “See? No threats or manipulation necessary.” 

It’s playful, now, his tone of voice, and she answers it with a slightly skeptical smile.

“And what are you willing to give me in exchange?” 

“Anything,” he says, and it sounds earnest; he splays his arms wide like he’s gesturing not just to the room, but beyond it to the bar, the city, the world. “Anything. Money, blood, drugs, sex, protection, power—whatever you want.”

All of those things come with a hefty price tag, she thinks—and part of her has to wonder if her gift, as he called it, is actually worth it. The short list of demands she was fully prepared to fight for just an hour ago seems to pale in comparison to how important he thinks she will be.

“I would expect to be compensated in the event you come to me and I am involved in solving a problem, but I also need a retainer. Nothing outrageous, but if I’m going to be at your beck and call I won’t be able to commit to a regular job.”

“Of course,” he says easily, like the financials don’t matter to him in the slightest. She’s dealt with wealthy clients before, of course, even wealthy vampire clients, but his flippancy adds another layer of surrealism to the already surprising conversation. Should she ask for a luxury car, a yacht, season tickets to see the Saints? “What else?” 

She’d considered this next point, and then abruptly un-considered it, felt she was asking too much… but given his promise of anything, she feels bold again. Like she could actually have the upper hand.

“I want protection—your protection. If I’m in real danger, and I call for you, I want you to be the one who comes for me.”

Eric raises an eyebrow, looks over her face carefully. It’s like he’s regarding some part of her for the first time, his gaze lingering.

“Do you anticipate being in danger often?”

“No, but I made enemies in Chicago, and you know how word travels in those circles. There are certain groups who aren’t fond of what I’ve done—and it’s possible there will be people who don’t approve of my employment here. I’d just like to know I’ll be safe, if I’m going to make working for you my priority.” 

She exhales, feeling a bit less confident than when they started this, but Eric just makes a thoughtful sound and says, “It’s yours. Anything else?” he asks, and she considers that a win and stands up, feeling instantly intimidated when he stands too, tall and dark and strong. It’s so much easier to do business with him when they’re sitting down, when he’s on her level, or as close to her level as he will ever be.

“No, I think that’s it,” she says, and she sticks her hand out to shake, feeling oddly formal as she does. As a lawyer, she would have preferred the security of a contract, but that’s not the way most vampires operate and she knows better than to suggest it; that could be seen as an indication that she doesn’t find him trustworthy. A handshake, his word and hers, will have to do.

Looking into her eyes, he reaches out and takes her hand in his, shakes for a moment and then holds it there for just a beat too long before pulling away. She walks toward the door, and then, when the thought strikes her, she turns back to face him once more.

“Actually, there is one more thing,” she says, and as he walks closer she can’t help flashing back to his offer of sex—thank god she’s the one with the power of telepathy and not the other way around. “Could you help me find a decent apartment somewhere between here and Bon Temps? Sookie’s a great roommate, but I can’t stand that drafty old house.” And all of its memories. 

“Consider it done,” he tells her, and she nods her head and leaves the bar, climbs into her car, and definitely doesn’t pump her fist in the air when she stops at the red light at the end of the block.

Two days later, a FedEx driver actually drops off an employment contract—it was silly of her to assume he wouldn’t also want their terms in writing—along with a slip of paper, upon which is written an address and a phone number, and a key.

The first night she spends in her new apartment—which is truly perfect, bright and white and airy, with tons of nearby green space and amenities—there is a knock at the door. When she opens it, Eric is on the other side, in a leather jacket and jeans, holding a bottle of wine with an expensive French label. She looks him over, and he does the same, making her feel a little self conscious in her bike shorts and oversized t-shirt, ponytail, bare feet.

“Eric—what a nice surprise,” she says, and it really is nice, and surprising. She never would have anticipated him coming to her without needing something—assuming he doesn’t need something now. The wine would be an odd touch, but as always with vampires, nothing’s out of the question.

“I just wanted to officially welcome you to the neighborhood,” he replies. 

Cam had been slightly suspicious when the very first listing he sent her was a mere five miles from his bar, but when she considered his request for her exclusive availability, she figured it made enough sense not to question him any further.

“You did that when you paid my rent. For a year,” she tacks on, her tone admonishing, because that was not part of the employment contract. A faint smile lifts his lips. 

“Consider it a sign-on bonus.” The air between them feels oddly charged, and then she tunes into it, realizes it’s that static that seems to follow him around. He shifts where he stands. “I brought you a bottle of wine. A housewarming gift,” he explains, handing it to her, and she wraps her fingers around the neck and pulls it close with a smile of her own.

“Thank you. Would you like to come in and have a glass with me?” 

It’s clear by the look on his face he hadn’t been expecting that—probably didn’t expect to be invited into her home unless it was absolutely necessary for her protection in the future—but he nods, and when she takes a step back he crosses the threshold, closes the door behind him, and follows her to the kitchen.

“Are you sure this one is okay? The neighbors are so… close together,” he remarks of her new townhouse, and she bends to sort through a box full of kitchen gadgets, pulling out the corkscrew after a few seconds of rummaging.

“Oh, trust me, it’s great. My apartment in Chicago was little more than a shoebox with windows, and there’s a pool here, and a park nearby. I really appreciate everything you did.” 

She opens the bottle, pulls two glasses down from the cabinet—the only cabinet she’d managed to fully unpack—and carries them over to the table, where Eric has already settled into a dining chair. He looks uncomfortable, tall and stiff and alert, like this is all a little too human for his taste.

“Still, it seems like you miss things there,” he says as she pours them each a serving, and she shrugs, then sinks down into the seat next to his with her leg tucked beneath her. 

“Things haven’t been very good there for the last couple years, so I’m actually happy to have a fresh start.” She takes a sip of her wine, full-bodied and earthy with a peppery finish, and can’t help the sigh of pleasure she expels. “My god, that’s good.” She says it with the hint of a smile, something he casually reciprocates. 

“I had a feeling you would like it,” is all he says, but when he takes a sip his eyes fall closed, and he seems to let it sit on his tongue a moment before continuing the conversation. 

“So what kinds of things do you anticipate calling on me for?” she asks later, as they are finishing their second glass. Eric takes a moment to gather his thoughts, and she thinks it’s because he’s choosing his words intentionally, for her benefit.

“Mostly to confirm my suspicions if I think a human is being deceptive; I have some human employees, and I make business deals with others. Sometimes I need to know if my patrons are lying—if they’re underage, or looking for V, or conspiring against us. As sheriff, sometimes vampires come to me with human problems as well—it would be easier to deal with them if I had you available to me.” 

“That sounds fair,” she says, appreciating his careful explanation. She shifts in her seat. “At my old firm they called me the human lie detector… they just didn’t know quite how close they were to the truth.” 

“It must be difficult, to hear all the things you hear,” he says, and she nods her head in agreement.

“It can be, but I’ve gotten fairly used to it over time. Taught myself to control it instead of letting it bother me.” Things are quiet for a moment, and she takes the opportunity to say something that’s been on her mind since he arrived. “I feel a little uneasy about asking for your protection the other day. I think I may have asked too much of you,” she says with a frown. “I know you’re busy with the bar, and as sheriff, that a lot of people rely on you, and I’m not sure it’s fair of me to make such an extravagant request.”

It takes some effort for her to be able to look up at him instead of focusing on her glass, but when she does he seems thoughtful, his eyes serious but gentle.

“I wouldn’t have agreed to it if I thought it would disrupt my other obligations. No harm will come to you while you’re under my employ, I promise.” She nods, placated by his reassurances, and he taps a finger against the tabletop. “You said you’ve taught yourself how to control your gift. Can you… hear vampires?” 

His tone is reserved, but hopeful, and she grimaces.

“No offense, but vampire minds are kind of empty. My guess it has to do with electrical impulses, or lack thereof. Technically, I can hear you, but it’s like white noise, sometimes, or tinnitus. I don’t get any actual thoughts.” She ponders his question for a moment, wonders if that unique buzzing she picks up when he’s around is his mind, or something different. “Touching helps with humans, though. I can rewind a little bit, see memories instead of just what’s playing live, if that makes sense; maybe it would help me hear something from you?” 

Eric stretches his arm across the table, his bare hand palm up, and she slides hers over it after a cautious moment. She presses their skin together and lets her eyes glance over his face, listening carefully, searching. It feels like a very, very long time passes, and a lot of static, but eventually she finds a moment, a phrase or sentence among the near silence.

“Ӓr du död?” she murmurs, and while she can’t see anything, she can feel the heat of flames nearby. It warms her hand where it turns to ice against Eric’s. His brow furrows in recognition, and she exhales, blinks. “I don’t know the language. What does it mean?”

“It’s Swedish. ‘Are you death?’ It’s the first thing I said to Godric, my Maker, before he turned me,” he admits, his voice serious and somber. Cam inhales sharply at that knowledge.

“Wow. I can’t imagine I’ve ever gone back further than a few days that way, let alone…” 

“A thousand years, give or take.” He answers her unspoken question with a deeply curious expression. “That was among the last of my human memories, so I suppose it makes sense that you can see it.”

“I can feel it, too,” she says, and she wraps her fingers around his, searching for more, for a deeper connection. She closes her eyes this time, in hopes it strengthens the memory. “I can feel the heat from a fire. And I can feel that you’re dying. You’re cold inside, but your skin is warm.” 

“Tell me more,” he says, his voice barely there. He tightens his grip on her hand.

“There’s a man there, a very young man, and you’re not happy with him… but you aren’t afraid of him, either. He has a strangely calming presence; you’re not sure if he’s an angel or the devil.”

“Godric.” His Maker. He looks strangely young for a vampire, vulnerable, and though he’s short, he towers over Eric in his memory, eyes deep and dark and full of possibility.

“Through your eyes, he looks larger than life,” she says softly, and his fingers flex. Even if she hadn’t known Godric was his Maker, the way this man makes him feel is as clear as any emotion she’s felt herself. He is death and life, the end and the beginning. 

“He is,” Eric says—not was, she takes note of that—and when he starts to pull back she releases his hand and lets hers drop to the tabletop. She feels tapped out after that, exhausted, and Eric nods his head once in her direction. “That is a remarkable gift you have.”

“It’s something,” she says casually, as if she didn’t just travel over a thousand years in her mind and pull out his last memory of human life, as if she didn’t feel like she was inside him, a part of him, his heart, his head, his hands. She sits there, speechless for a moment, and then Eric takes a deep, exaggerated breath.

“Well, I should get back to Fangtasia—I’m happy to see you’re settling in,” he tells her, and when he stands she stands, walks him to the door. It closes behind him, and she feels both strangely invigorated by his presence, and deeply conflicted by his departure.

At Fangtasia, Pam waits for Eric at the front door. 

“Where have you been?” she asks, her heels clicking on the floor as she follows him back to the office. The crowd naturally parts for them, and though Eric probably attributes it to his aura—he’s been acting strangely woo-woo lately, talking about witches and energy and vibrations and the like—it’s more likely his huge, hulking frame and the fact that his expression alone would kill, if such a thing were possible. “You know I find it distasteful to be left alone with the humans for so long.” 

“I had an errand to run,” he says, but he smells like wine and the girl, there’s no mistaking it. Errands, her perky ass. 

“How is she?” she asks as he slides into the chair behind the desk, stretching back so he can hook his ankles over the edge of the desk. It’s even worse than manspreading. He looks up at her like he’s not sure what she means, and she crosses her arms over her chest and blinks. “Our new employee. Camila. That’s who you were with, isn’t it?” 

“You don’t care how she is,” is all he says in response, and she leans over and smacks his boots so his feet fall to the floor. Pam knows that only happened because he let it, and she bites back a fond smile.

“No, I don’t, but apparently you do. I thought you were obsessed with Sookie when she came along, but this girl has you… buying apartment buildings, and promising your protection, and you’ve barely known her for a week.” 

She hopes he doesn’t take her tone for jealousy, because it’s not, not really; she’s just never seen him this infatuated, and it’s freaking her out a little, if she’s being honest. Like it or not, her life, her comfort, relies very heavily on Eric and his… happiness isn’t quite the right word, but when he is content, her nights tend to be much smoother, more enjoyable all around. She gets to drink from an endless supply of young, willing, rich-blooded partygoers instead of traipsing around the woods and ruining her favorite pumps, or trapping moronic anti-vampers and using them to set an example for their friends.

“You have no idea how important she is going to be. No idea,” he repeats, and his voice has that strangely mystical quality about it again, a faint undertone of magic that hovers around its edges. He’s been to see a witch, she thinks, or had his fortune told, something that’s led him to believe this girl and her gift are crucial to whatever he has planned. It sends a chill down her spine that she’s unable to fight. “Her gift is going to make us unconquerable.”

After a long pause, he pulls out his laptop from the top drawer, opens it, which she knows is equivalent to dismissing her, and she sighs softly and makes her way back out to the floor. 

“I cannot believe you’re working for Eric,” Sookie says as she hangs a handful of pressed skirts in Cam’s bedroom closet. Her typical uniform is very different from Sookie’s, the blonde notices. Across the room, Cam carefully arranges gold jewelry in a tiered acrylic box with satin lined drawers.

“It’s as close as I can get to my old job for now, and I’m not really in a position to be picky, or I wouldn’t have come back to Louisiana at all—no offense,” she throws over her shoulder. Sookie tuts and waves her hand.

“None taken. I know where my heart is,” she assures her cousin. Like all small town girls, Sookie sometimes kicks herself for never leaving Bon Temps, but more often than not she loves her hometown, its history, her family’s legacy. 

Gran’s, at least.

She grabs a pile of folded sweaters in cashmere and various knits, stacks them in the space above the closet rod. “Aren’t you at all worried he’s going to use you to hurt people?” 

Behind her, Cam takes a long, careful breath and turns to face Sookie.

“One thing you have to understand—especially if you and Bill are in it for the long haul—is that vampire justice is different. I know it shouldn’t be, but until now they've been non-existent in terms of conventional law. They have their own systems in place—hierarchies, rules, punishments—and we can’t step in and tell them how to behave overnight just because we think we know better.” 

Sookie shoots her a look—as pro-vamp as she is, she admits she’s not comfortable accepting their more violent tendencies, especially where humans are involved. Cam only shrugs. 

“I’m going to defer to Eric’s expertise as sheriff, but I’ll call it like I see it. If he’s being unnecessarily cruel or unjust, I’m not afraid to discuss it with him. If his actions seem to be aligned with the usual nature of his business, I’ll excuse myself.” She walks toward the bed, picks up a pile of panties, mostly black, and places them into the top drawer of a light-colored dresser. When she turns back to Sookie, it’s clear that Cam can read the expression on her face, one of thinly-veiled awe. “What?” she asks, and Sookie smiles, shakes her head. 

“I don't know, I guess… Just, when did you get so confident? So smart, so sure of yourself?” Cam had always been the leader, strong where Sookie was soft, sure where Tara was uncertain, and though Sookie feels like they’ve all come into their own in recent years, she is so pleasantly surprised at the absolute stunner her cousin has become—physically and intellectually. She feels as proud as Cam’s mom would if she were around, Sookie’s sure.

“It’s been a long ten years, Sookie,” is all Cam says, and though she can tell there is more to that statement, she can also sense that now isn’t the time to get into that. Later, someday. 

“Yeah, it has. I just wish I was half as comfortable as you in this new world… sometimes I think I stick out like a sore thumb,” Sookie admits, lifting a stack of shoe boxes and lining them up on the floor of the closet. Cam steps over to join her, adds a couple pairs of boots, and puts her hand on Sookie’s shoulder.

“You’re like a sunflower growing among dead grass. It’s not a bad thing to stick out,” she promises with a smile that crinkles the corner of her eyes, and Sookie pats her hand in gratitude continues to help her settle in.

[ertois]

EVAN MOCK? não! é apenas GABRIEL ERTOIS, ele é filho de IRIS do CHALÉ 14 e tem 25 ANOS. a tv hefesto informa no guia de programação que ele está no NÍVEL 2 por estar no acampamento há 12 ANOS, sabia? e se lá estiver certo, GABE é bastante OBSERVADOR mas também dizem que ele é RANCOROSO. mas você sabe como hefesto é, sempre inventando fake news pra atrair audiência.

── o que você precisa saber?

Gabriel era um semideus não reclamado até dois meses atrás, quando o símbolo de Íris apareceu sobre sua cabeça enquanto saía da enfermaria. Estava no local recuperando-se após ter tido suas asas arrancadas - cortesia de Zeus, o episódio passou brevemente no keeping up with the olimpians - e desde então sua personalidade vem se tornando mais fechada. Chegou no acampamento com treze anos e costumava passar apenas as férias, pois era estagiário da Hermes Express. Antes de tudo isso, morava com monges.

── inspirações:

aang (avatar), luke castellan (pjo).

[ threads tracker ] ─ lista de replys.

── esportes.

Corrida de pégasos e esgrima, time azul.

── biografia.

Tirando os cabelos de cor volátil, Gabriel não é o que se esperaria de um filho da deusa do arco-iris. Há uma aura sombria pairando nele, como se a inocência tivesse cedido espaço para algo mais desconfiado, ardiloso até. Supõe-se que é isso o que acontece quando arrancam seu bem mais precioso. No caso dele, as suas asas.

Antes do mosteiro, não havia nada. Ninguém jamais dera-lhe uma explicação de como havia chegado naqueles corredores de paredes descascando, cercado pela companhia de homens carecas e, em sua maioria, irritantemente silenciosos. O garoto seguia a rotina, ciente de que era diferente somente por ligeiros detalhes: além de ser a única criança, era o único que tinha asas. Pequenas, douradas, estranhamente invisíveis para a maioria dos monges, mas aqueles que viam, os mais espiritualizados, tinham tomado como missão protegê-lo dos perigos do mundo. O tomaram por anjo. O nomearam Gabriel.

Ele se divertia. Era a única vida que conhecia e crianças são mestres em transformar os lugares mais inóspitos em parques de diversões; Isso, até colocarem os olhos num parque de diversões de verdade, e então se tornam incapazes de contentar com qualquer outra coisa. Do alto da torre mais alta, testando as asas que já começavam a sustentar seu peso, vislumbrou a chegada dos brinquedos no vilarejo à distância. Sabia que não deveria, sabia que era perigoso, mas foi. Tinha só doze.

Sua passagem pelo parque foi breve, porém evidente. O cheiro fez uma trilha de volta ao mosteiro e trouxe consigo um faminto cíclope que destroçou tudo e todos em busca da criança. O dia para o qual tanto tinham se preparado havia chegado, mas de nada adiantou, os mestres eram fracos demais para a criatura. Restou a Gabriel fugir enquanto a atrasavam.

Sozinho e sem rumo numa estrada deserta, orou, mas o deus que lhe atendeu era um pouco diferente. Hermes surgiu com um caminhão de entregas e o banco do passageiro vago, pronto para ceder carona a um viajante a deriva. Conversa vai, conversa vem, estava no meio do caminho para o Acampamento Meio-Sangue quando decidira puxar o freio de mão e seguir por outro rumo. Aquela criança tinha sido presa a vida inteira, não seria justo tirá-la de uma gaiola e pô-la em outra. E aquelas asas… hm, aquelas asas viriam muito a calhar.

Sua companhia de entregas ganhou um estagiário. Gabriel, um tutor. Um padrasto, pode-se dizer, pois que já nas férias do acampamento, mesmo que a ascendência fosse praticamente evidente através dos cabelos e olhos, ninguém o reclamava. Ele preferia assim; a muvuca do Chalé de Hermes, a barulheira incessante, as pegadinhas. Praticava algumas delas com o próprio deus também, até que uma lhe marcou pelo resto da vida.

Na matéria senso de humor, Zeus reoprovaria com zero. Cabia a Gabriel entrar e sair sem ser notado e surrupiar da pilha de roupas o broche milenar em formato de raio que, dali a alguns minutos, numa festa a caráter do Olimpo, seguraria firme a toga do rei dos céus. Mas Zeus não viu qualquer graça no roubo flagrado. Enquanto agarrava o semideus dolorosamente por uma das asas, achou que aquilo estava mais para desrespeito. Quis saber qual dos parentes havia ordenado o ato, mas Gabriel nada falou. Nem quando foi atirado contra o salão da festa, cercado por dezenas de olhares curiosos. Nem mesmo quando fora sentenciado. Em silêncio também permaneceu Hermes, acuado pela fúria inesperada de seu pai, observando a cena a uma covarde distância, desviando o olhar somente quando penas douradas manchadas de sangue se espalharam pelo salão.

Isso aconteceu há cerca de dois meses, e Hermes não entrou mais em contato desde então. Encontrando exílio no acampamento, a recuperação dos ferimentos externos foi relativamente rápida, graças ao nectar, mas os internos estão longe de sarar. Seus primeiros passos enfermaria afora foram agraciados por um brilho de arco-iris no topo da cabeça, reclamando Gabriel como membro do chalé 14, para onde se mudou de prontidão, grato pelo pseudo-isolamento. Quando a profecia soou da boca de Rachel, cheia de promessas de silêncio e destruição, o arrepio inicial deu espaço a um riso jocoso. Sim, estava farto de silêncio. Talvez, lá no fundo, também estivesse ansioso para ver o Olimpo caindo.

── headcanons.

Gabe está constantemente de mochila nas costas. A ausência do peso das asas é incômoda e o faz andar curvado para frente, então a mochila ajuda a balancear.

Gosta de sentar em lugares altos, nos quais possa balançar as pernas e os pés não toquem no chão.

Acostumado a voar para cima e para baixo, caminhadas são extremamente exaustivas pra ele agora. O skate vem sendo seu método de transporte favorito para distâncias médias.

── maldição.

No ato do arrancar de suas asas, Zeus proibiu a qualquer divindade o direito de restituí-las, banindo o semideus de seu reino. Gabriel ainda não sabe, mas até mesmo os céus possuem certa resistência em deixá-lo entrar, se comportando de maneira hostil sempre que ele atravessa certa altura.

── poderes.

Gabriel tem certo manejo sobre a refração da luz, podendo dispersá-la em diferentes frequências. Com isso, consegue mudar a cor de objetos, projetar imagens através de fontes de luz já existentes (criando hologramas sem áudio) e, principalmente, se camuflar em ambientes como uma espécie de camaleão. Contudo ainda está no nível dois e nenhuma das habilidades é perfeita. Para a camuflagem, por exemplo, precisa ficar o mais imóvel possível e quanto mais complicado for o arredor, mais chances de não se misturar de maneira satisfatória.

── habilidades.

agilidade sobre humana e visão aguçada — consegue diferenciar com facilidade os mais semelhantes subtons de cores.

── arma.

um colar com pingente de caduceu, se transforma numa espada de bronze celestial quando é puxado. gabe está meio reticente de continuar a usando, procurando uma arma que possa substituí-la.

[demigodscurse-hq]

O último dia do Festival que anunciava o Equinócio de Outono se passou e, com ele, veio o anúncio de Hermes que ele estaria providenciando o retorno dos campistas romanos ao Júpiter a seguir. Alguns desses já haviam preparado suas coisas para retornar ao seu acampamento, outros ainda nem haviam começado a preparar suas malas, mas já eram apressados por terceiros a fazê-lo. Quíron acompanhava Dionísio em um passeio pelo Meio-Sangue, anotando calmamente em seu bloco de notas as tarefas que seriam repassadas para organizar o Acampamento para o retorno das atividades normais no próximo dia. Alguns Sátiros e Ninfas que haviam vindo ao Acampamento para o evento por chamado de Flora já se despediam daqueles que eram residentes fixos do acampamento grego. Nada parecia fora de ordem, como se nem mesmo existisse um mal à espreita para começo de conversa.

A calmaria precede a tempestade...

O céu se escureceu rapidamente com os ventos frios que começaram a soprar maus presságios pelo Meio-Sangue. O primeiro a cair ao chão foi o próprio Dionísio, de súbito, e, por um momento, todos pensaram que o Senhor D tinha tropeçado e dado de cara no chão - alguns até mesmo riram da situação -, mas, ao olhar para as expressões de Quíron, esse pensamento se transformou em confusão rapidamente. Logo depois, não muito longe dali, Hermes deixou a Casa Grande, cambaleando, como se resistisse a algo, mas logo ele caiu ao chão, rolando escadaria abaixo e caindo sobre o chão duro de terra batida, inconsciente. Afrodite saiu em seguida, os olhos arregalados e as mãos trêmulas, olhando ao redor, sua consciência pingada, vez ou outra falhando ao que seus joelhos foram ao chão.

─ Preparem-se para a batalha!

A Deusa da Beleza gritou, sua voz ecoando por cada canto do Acampamento, encontrando os ouvidos de todos os semideuses em alerta, e, finalmente, ela caiu ao chão, não conseguindo mais resistir. Zéfiro, Flora, outros Deuses Menores que estavam presentes, todos caíram um a um, como se entrassem num sono profundo, sua energia divina os deixando aos poucos, como se fosse absorvida. Cérbero saiu de a Casa Grande rugindo, sua forma se alterando, hora três cabeças de cachorro, hora o homem que todos vieram a presenciar até então, e logo ele caiu também. Então, a realização caiu sobre todos os semideuses, se ainda já não haviam percebido... Eles estavam sob ataque. Pânico se infiltrou na mente dos campistas ao que eles corriam de um lado a outros pegando suas armas, vestindo armaduras, calçando botas, um ou outro tropeçando ou atropelando os mais novos e inexperientes. Os romanos rapidamente se organizaram entre si e acompanharam os gregos para defender o Acampamento.

Os primeiros que elevaram seus olhares aos céus foram Niamh e Anastasia, e o que viram foi uma mulher, jovem, bela... A Deusa da Juventude tinha, amarrado em correntes negras, outro ao seu lado, o Deus do Sono, Hipnos. As correntes pareciam arder à pele de seu prisioneiro e dele uma aura poderosa escapava, a fonte do sono que recaiu sobre os Deuses ali presentes. Ela sorriu ao ser notada, o olhar frio sobre os semideuses ao que ela apertou as correntes entre os dedos e Hipnos gritou com a dor que os campistas podiam apenas imaginar. Aos poucos, os Deuses que estavam caídos ao chão se tornavam translúcidos e, então, desapareciam.

Da floresta, figuras começaram a deixar a linhas de árvores, semideuses gregos que estavam em Patrulhas e Explorações e romanos que ainda não haviam sido avistados no Acampamento desde o dia em que todos foram trazidos ao grego, ainda vestindo suas armaduras ou roupas de festa, carregando em mãos suas armas. No primeiro momento, todos acreditaram que aqueles eram reforços, isso até notarem seus olhos, imersos em chamas esverdeadas... Com o sangue divino, os monstros que controlavam os corpos dos semideuses conseguiram adentrar as linhas do Acampamento e, aproveitando-se do conflito de atacar alguém que conheciam, as criaturas avançaram contra os campistas.

Informações OOC.

Isso aconteceu no dia seguinte ao evento, no dia 25/09!

Cada semideus terá que lidar com dois Lemures que estão possuindo corpos de semideuses que seus personagens conhecem.

Vocês terão uma semana para fazer um POV ou uma interação mostrando esse embate com as criaturas e devem relatar qual a decisão tomada pelos semideuses.

Personagens que caírem em combate não morrerão dessa vez, mas podem adquirir FERIMENTOS, que atrapalharão o personagem até segunda ordem!

Divirtam-se!

Personagens citados: @vinhoculto & @antiilife

[coolanimescreenshots]

The Fall 2023 Anime list a filled without quite a lot of crowd pleasers, but it's also filled with a LOT of diamonds in the rough. There are SOOOO much anime to watch this season that everyday there will be something to look forward to.

There are a few anime that are showing season 2: Goblin Slayer, Spy x Family, Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle, & Girlfriend Girlfriend.

But there are also a good chunk of challengers that are definitely must watch:

Boushoku no Berserk

MF Ghost

The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You

Migi to Dali

Protocol Rain

The genres fall within action, sport, romance, comedy, and mystery. The title with the really long name is my personally favorite because it's actually really funny. The Japanese voice acting is REALLY great! I'm sure the dubs for it will live up as well. Migi to Dali is a creepy with subtle comedy aura. MF Ghost falls in the Initial D universe. Boushoku no Berserk is a interesting fantasy anime with a twist. Protocol Rain is by far a contender here, it's using an interesting form of animation.

The other anime that aren't mentioned all also have some really good story telling. So be sure to check them out when you can.

Once I get half way through watching these anime, i'll be posting my top 10 in order from most favorite to least.

[dianahwang]

Tracks and Trails: The Road to Obsession. EPISODE 1

produção by: Leong Ning. 2024

DANDO A LARGADA

[ABERTURA] (Cenas rápidas e dinâmicas mostram Diana e sua banda em diferentes momentos dos eventos descritos, intercaladas com imagens de estrada, palcos e fãs. A trilha instrumental de Chasing Sunsets cria um tom empolgante e emotivo.)

"O que acontece antes das luzes se acenderem, das vozes ecoarem e dos aplausos tomarem conta? Bem-vindo ao por trás dos bastidores de The Obsession, onde cada nota tem uma história, cada show é um novo capítulo, e cada viagem nos leva mais perto do que nos move."

Os primeiros raios do sol espiavam através das cortinas de um estúdio de ensaio em Los Angeles. O ar estava impregnado de expectativa, pontuado pelo som abafado da bateria de Oliver, que fazia os ajustes finais. NecroSynth, o tecladista conhecido por sua presença hipnótica no palco, testava uma sequência melódica enquanto murmurava algo para si mesmo. Joshua, o baixista, afinava seu instrumento com a expressão tranquila de quem sabia exatamente o que estava por vir. Ryu, sempre meticuloso, ajustava os pedais da guitarra, franzindo o cenho como se cada detalhe fosse crucial.

No centro de tudo estava Diana, de pé ao microfone, com seus cabelos ruivos vibrando sob a luz artificial, entregue as sensações únicas que cantar lhe trazia. Ela fechou os olhos, permitindo-se alguns segundos para absorver a energia dos colegas de banda. A música que surgiria dali seria o começo de uma jornada única — e todos sabiam disso.

SEGMENTO 1: PREPARAÇÃO PARA O THE KELLY CLARKSON SHOW (Câmera entra no estúdio de ensaio da banda. Diana está ajustando o microfone enquanto a banda faz o aquecimento.)

DIANA (OFF): "Performar ao vivo em um programa como o da Kelly é uma oportunidade única. É mais do que apenas música—é sobre me conectar com o público que não apenas ouve, mas sente cada verso."

O sol de outubro banhava Los Angeles em tons dourados enquanto o ônibus da banda de Diana estacionava em frente ao estúdio do The Kelly Clarkson Show. Lá dentro, a energia era palpável: uma mistura de entusiasmo e foco. Diana ajustava seu microfone no camarim, enquanto os outros membros da banda faziam os últimos preparativos.

Oliver batucava distraidamente nas pernas, criando um ritmo que parecia ressoar com o coração pulsante do grupo. “Pronto para mais um?” ele perguntou, com um sorriso.

“Só mais um?” Ryu brincou enquanto afinava sua guitarra. “Irmão, estamos só começando.” Joshua mexia no celular, revisando a setlist enviada pela produção. “Vai ser direto ao ponto, do jeito que Diana gosta. 'Chasing Sunsets' vai detonar ao vivo.”

Perto da porta, Dhew, ajustava os óculos de sol sobre a cabeça e ria com a descontração que só ele conseguia trazer à equipe. “Alguém viu meu teclado? Ou melhor, alguém viu meu café?” Diana, com os cabelos ruivos brilhando sob a luz do camarim, deu uma risada suave. “Se alguém não achou seu café até agora, é porque o Oliver pegou.”

"O primeiro passo na jornada foi o The Kelly Clarkson Show, onde Diana compartilhou não apenas sua música, mas também suas histórias."

(Cena de Diana conversando com Kelly no camarim, mostrando o tom descontraído e amigável da entrevista.)

A entrevista com Kelly foi um misto de profundidade e leveza. Diana falou sobre The Obsession com sinceridade: “É um álbum sobre encarar seus próprios demônios e encontrar a força para dançar com eles.”

Quando a hora da performance chegou, o palco foi tomado por uma aura mágica. Ryu puxou os primeiros acordes, enquanto NecroSynth criava um fundo atmosférico que parecia levar a audiência para outra dimensão. Diana, de olhos fechados, começou a cantar Chasing Sunsets. Sua voz carregava emoção crua, acompanhada pelo ritmo pulsante de Oliver e Joshua, que sustentavam a melodia com precisão e alma.

SEGMENTO 2: SPOTIFY FANS FIRST (Imagens dos bastidores mostram Diana revisando o setlist e interagindo com a equipe do evento.)

Cinco dias depois, a atmosfera no evento Spotify Fans First era íntima e calorosa. Diana e a banda estavam cercados por fãs que haviam sido selecionados para essa ocasião especial.

DIANA (OFF): "Uma sessão como essa é mágica. É uma chance de olhar nos olhos dos fãs e realmente conversar com eles sobre o que minha música significa para eles."

Com os membros da banda ao redor, Diana sentou-se em um pequeno palco e começou a tocar as primeiras notas de The Obsession. Cada música era precedida de uma história ou uma confissão.

“Essa aqui,” ela disse, olhando para Ryu, “foi construída em torno de um riff que ele me trouxe. Eu sabia que era especial desde o primeiro momento.”

Ryu, tímido, deu de ombros, mas não conseguiu esconder o sorriso. Enquanto tocavam, Andrew ria com Joshua e Oliver entre os sets, mostrando a leveza que a banda traz para todos os momentos, mesmo os mais sérios.

As perguntas dos fãs trouxeram lágrimas e risadas. “Quando você escreveu Dopamine,” uma jovem começou, “você sabia que ajudaria alguém a passar pelos momentos mais difíceis?”

Diana olhou para ela com ternura. “Eu só sabia que precisava escrever para me ajudar. Mas ouvir isso de você significa que fizemos algo certo.”

(Cenas do evento: Diana conversando com fãs, risadas durante o Q&A, e momentos emocionantes enquanto compartilha inspirações das músicas.)

"Intimidade. Essa foi a palavra que definiu o encontro no Spotify Fans First, onde histórias por trás de cada faixa de The Obsession foram reveladas."

SEGMENTO 3: WELCOME TO ROCKVILLE FESTIVAL (Cenas aéreas do festival em Daytona Beach, destacando a multidão animada e o palco principal.)

Quando chegaram ao Welcome to Rockville Festival, a atmosfera mudou novamente. Era o maior palco que haviam encarado desde o lançamento de The Obsession. No backstage, a banda estava focada. Diana afinava os vocais com Oliver batucando na parede, enquanto Ryu e Joshua discutiam os detalhes do setlist. NecroSynth, com sua energia inesgotável, brincava sobre como precisava “roubar o show”. Quando as luzes se apagaram e o público começou a gritar, Diana sentiu um arrepio percorrer sua espinha. “Estamos juntos nisso,” disse ela, olhando para seus companheiros de banda. O show começou com um impacto estrondoso. The Exorcism reverberava pelo festival, e o público respondia como uma força viva. “Daytona Beach!” ela gritou ao microfone, sua voz ecoando sobre milhares de cabeças. “Vamos fazer história hoje à noite!”

A banda respondeu com uma intensidade implacável. Oliver parecia se fundir com sua bateria, enquanto Ryu e Joshua criavam uma sinfonia eletrizante. NecroSynth, com seus movimentos fluídos, quase dançava enquanto seus dedos corriam pelo teclado

Após o show, o meet & greet trouxe momentos emocionantes. Diana abraçou uma fã que mostrou uma tatuagem inspirada em The Obsession, enquanto Oliver fazia piadas que arrancavam risadas de todos. Ryu, sempre atencioso, conversava com um garoto sobre técnicas de guitarra, enquanto Dhew distribuía autógrafos com um sorriso triunfante.

SEGMENTO 4: UM DESCANSO EM EDIMBURGO (Cenas de toda a movimentação no aeroporto LAX, onde Diana e Trevor são capturados adentrando no jatinho particular.)

Chegando à Escócia, a atmosfera mudou instantaneamente. As ruas de paralelepípedo de Edimburgo, cercadas por construções históricas, pareciam retiradas de um livro de fantasia. Diana, de braços dados com Trevor, olhava maravilhada para o horizonte enquanto o Castelo de Edimburgo se erguia em toda a sua grandiosidade. "Eu sempre quis visitar esse lugar,” disse ela, puxando o marido para uma foto, o sorriso de Diana era radiante e Trevor parecia completamente absorvido por ela.

O vídeo mostrava o casal explorando os pontos mais emblemáticos da cidade. Na Victoria Street, Diana se encantava com as vitrines coloridas das lojas locais. Trevor, por outro lado, estava mais interessado em encontrar a cafeteria perfeita. Eles se sentaram em um pequeno café com vista para a rua, onde Trevor pediu um flat white e Diana um chá de hortelã.

"Trevor e eu adoramos conhecer a culinária local e digamos de passagem que dessa vez estamos mais famintos que o normal." assentiu Diana quando arqueou ambas as sobrancelhas para Trevor, que respondeu com uma risada. Os olhares cúmplices e as risadas compartilhadas entre eles eram facilmente capturados.

DIANA (OFF): "Desde que nos casamos, Trevor e eu sempre tiramos um momento para nós, principalmente quando nossas agendas estão bem cheias e durante os dias não conseguimos ter um tempo de qualidade como um casal. Algumas vezes estamos bem cansados. Por isso, nada melhor que viagens de fim de semana para espairecer. Somos merecedores"

Um dos momentos mais marcantes da viagem aconteceu durante um passeio ao longo da Arthur's Seat, uma trilha que levava a uma vista panorâmica da cidade. O vento gelado bagunçava os cabelos de Diana, mas ela não parecia se importar. “Isso me faz lembrar das viagens que fazia para me reconectar comigo mesma, como também nas trilhas que Trevor e eu costumamos fazer em Los Angeles." disse ela, olhando para o horizonte. Trevor a abraçou por trás, oferecendo o calor que o clima não proporcionava.

“E agora, você se reconecta com a gente,” ele respondeu, com um sorriso sereno.

À noite, as ruas iluminadas de Edimburgo criavam um cenário mágico. Diana e Trevor jantaram em um restaurante acolhedor, onde trocaram histórias sobre as semanas intensas que tinham vivido. Diana comentou sobre a adrenalina dos shows, enquanto Trevor falou sobre os desafios em sua posição como CTO da NVIDIA.

“Eu amo sabe,” refletiu Diana, “mesmo nos dias mais difíceis, eu sei que posso contar com você.” Trevor segurou a mão dela, respondendo com um olhar que dispensava palavras.

Antes de voltarem para Los Angeles, uma última cena surgiu: Diana e Trevor caminhando de mãos dadas na manhã do dia 10, enquanto o céu nublado da Escócia criava um contraste com a energia leve dos dois.

“Foi curto, mas perfeito,” disse Diana, olhando para a câmera.

“Até porque descansar muito não é nosso estilo,” completou Trevor com um sorriso.

SEGMENTO 5: ENCERRAMENTO DO EPISÓDIO (Montagem de cenas da viagem entre os eventos, mostrando a banda em vans, aviões e se divertindo nos intervalos.)

"Três eventos, três cidades, três formas de conexão. Mas essa é apenas a largada para a jornada que nos leva ao coração de The Obsession. No próximo episódio, prepare-se para mais histórias, desafios e, claro, música."

De volta ao ônibus da turnê, a banda estava exausta, mas satisfeita. Diana olhava pela janela, observando as luzes que passavam. Ryu, com sua câmera em mãos, sentou-se ao lado dela. “Isso é só o começo, não é?” perguntou o guitarrista.

Diana sorriu. “É. E ainda temos muito para mostrar.”

O episódio termina com imagens capturadas por Diana: sorrisos, olhares cúmplices e a energia única que só existe nos bastidores de uma banda em ascensão.

[snippychicke]

For the Sake of a Smile (V.2) Chapter Eleven

Title: For the Sake of a Smile (Revised)

Overall Rating: Mature (18+)

Chapter Rating: M for Mature. We've begun the 18+ content

Trigger warnings: Nothing beyond the child abuse hinted in the series, though we do explore the consequences a bit more.

Main Pairing: Balam Shichiro/Reader

Summary: Hell on earth was your motto for your job. Granted, you were pretty sure earth really was hell, considering the shit you had seen in your life. And the fact your coworker was a child. 

A child named Suzuki Iruma, in fact. A kid who’s life was decidedly worse than yours, but yet he smiled despite everything. It wasn’t long after meeting him that you decided you’d do a lot for his smile. Including summoning a literal demon and signing your soul away.

But as it turns out, hell (The Netherworld, actually) was a lot better than living on earth. Demons were more humane than a lot of humans you knew.

And Iruma’s smile wasn’t the only one that would change your life.

Masterlist | Ao3| Mairimashitai! Simps Discord

Professor Dantlion looked like an average demon; he was usually cheerful, friendly. Very human like with his plain brown hair and eyes, though you couldn't miss the dark horns either. You felt he was rather approachable, and had helped you out on various occasions including the Harvest Festival. 

But there always seemed to be a… dark aura just hanging around him. You had heard through the grapevine he was a trickster and deceiver, and was warned by many to stay on your toes around him. 

Which was why you were rather wary when he appeared in the library with the sole purpose to talk to you. Part of you feared that your… incident with the Creeping Sleep (where the demon himself had to take over your duties unexpectedly) had not been so easily forgiven as you had thought. 

“I had a meeting with Lord Sullivan,” He started after the formalities of inviting him into your cozy office “And it seems you were never actually initiated as Babyls Faculty."

You blinked, confused. Sullivan hadn’t mentioned anything about being ‘initated’ when he announced he went through your role as Librarian. Granted he didn't explain a lot of things. 

What would an 'initiation' even entail? Especially since you were now acquainted with most of the staff and their roles. Hell, you were firmly rooted in your own role now. 

Or… or was this some kind of hazing trick? Like an initiation to a fraternity or something. But… demonic. 

"Oh, don’t worry!” He tried to reassure, seeing your face pale. “We’re not as archaic as Jackapo’s initiations. No blood rituals or life-or-death fights.”

“Oh, okay,” You squeaked. Your thoughts hadn’t even drifted towards it being that dark or gruesome.

“I know you’re not technically a teacher," He continued with a faint smile. "But Lord Sullivan asked for me to be your supervisor, so we’ll be taking you out to the Brawl Inn tonight for your initiation ceremony.”

“Wait, what?"

--+--

"It’ll be fun, sweetheart,” Sullivan tried to reassure you when you ran to his office after Dali left the library. Usually, you try to stay away as to not draw attention to the nepotism. However; today you felt the overwhelming need to talk to your adopted father face-to-face. "The initiation ceremony is mainly just… a formality. Really, the staff use it as an excuse to party."

You however, were not reassured. You continued to pace the span of his office, heart thrumming in your chest as thoughts and memories clashed in your mind. “Fun? I-I’ve never had fun at any after work gathering in my life." So many work parties that left you full of regrets as you pressured into partying a little too hard. Making reckless decisions thanks to the liquor that had flowed far too plentiful.

It led you to be highly wary of such social interactions. Or, truthfully, it made you want to avoid them like the plague. 

"All my coworkers are demons while I am human, or have you forgotten?! Then you add alcohol into the mix which can only spell certain disaster!" You continued, hoping to convince Sullivan to find a way for you to get out of this. This was such a bad, bad idea. "I still can’t remember much from that one drink at Walter Park! And that was one! With just Balam and Kalego! God, what if Raim and Momonoki finally corner me for girl talk?”

“There’s no need for such language,” Sullivan chimed, sounding vaguely disapproving - though you didn’t really hear him, too lost in your panicked thoughts.

“What if my drunk ass admits everything? Can you imagine how bad that could end! And I don't mean just my feelings for Balam, I mean everything, dad! The fact I’m human, or that Iruma’s human! It could not only end with my death, but his too, and–"

Sullivan stopped your frantic pacing with a gentle hand on your shoulder, his dark eyes meeting yours from behind his glasses.

"Nothing is going to happen, my dear. You’ll be safe," He reassured softly. "I not only trust you, but the other staff as well. You’ll see how devoted the teachers are, and the fact that Dali accepted you as one of his own without argument proves that he believes you are worth this honor.”

You took a few deep breaths; hoping, wishing what he said was true. Sullivan knew them best, he knew what was at stake. You could trust him on this at least, right?

But… all the mistakes in the past. Everything that was hanging in the balance…. Could you safely take this risk?

“And I just love it when you call me dad!” Sullivan broke the moment as he quickly pulled you into a hug with a happy squeal. “You really do see me as your father, just like Iruma sees me as his grandfather! Oh, I’m just so happy!"

"Really?” You half-heartedly complained at the sudden change of topic as well as mood, though you didn’t fight the embrace. Sullivan’s open paternal affection would always be something you secretly cherished.

And maybe a change is what you needed.

“Absolutely, my sweet little princess! You two mean so much to me! And I would never, ever, put you in a situation you couldn’t handle."

With a groan, you wrapped your arms around his slender frame and allowed yourself to relax and accept the comfort he offered. 

You knew you could trust Sullivan. He would never knowingly put you or Iruma in danger. 

Which meant you weren’t getting out of the initiation, no matter how nervous you were. The thought made you press closer to Sullivan, burying your face against his bony shoulder.

If other teachers were going to be there… would Balam be there too? On one hand, the thought comforted you, after all you knew he would protect you.

But you were also worried about… well, everything else that came with being around him now.

--+--

"Kalego!”

“Hmm?" Kalego grunted in acknowledgement as he continued his work. Spending the evening with Balam holed up in the Prep room sounded much more appealing than attending the teachers’ celebration for another successful Harvest Festival. 

Calming instrumental music drifted from the radio, and he had found a rather interesting blend of wine to sip on after sharing a decent meal with one of the few people in the Netherworld that didn’t annoy him.

Even if Balam’s interest was focused on you to the point Kalego doubted the other demon realized how much his time was spent either talking to, or about you. But he was such a love-sick hellhound that even Kalego couldn’t be annoyed by his antics. To be honest, it was as adorable as it was pitiful, even to him.

And to be completely fair, he did enjoy seeing his comrade happy. You were rather close to being added to the short list of people Kalego could tolerate.

As soon as he figured out the conundrum that surrounded you and your son. Something about your story didn't seem quite right, and it was more apparent with time that something was distinctly different about you two. 

"They're holding her Initiation Ceremony tonight,” Balam explained, furiously typing on the small keyboard of his phone. Kalego didn't need to ask who he was referring to. “At the Brawl Inn! Dali's going to be her supervisor too….”

That caught Kalego’s full attention. Not only did Sullivan relinquish that kind of authority over his precious daughter, but also allowed Dali to oversee your Ceremony? That was surprising…. Kalego had figured the chairdemon would have insisted on having that privilege for himself. But…

“Tonight?” Kalego asked with a frown. “Aren’t the other teachers celebrating the end of the Harvest Festival?"

Balam’s excitement faded, and Kalego could almost see the forlorn expression behind his mask as Balam’s broad shoulders slumped. The larger demon looked up from his phone, his dark eyes pleading. "I know you didn’t want to go, but…”

No, he hadn’t. Kalego hated social events with a passion. And Balam had reluctantly decided to stay with him versus attending the event, mainly because of his own social awkwardness. 

But now that Balam knew you would be there, and the fact it would also be your initiation ceremony…

“I suppose we should go then,” He conceded with an aggrieved sigh. “Even if just to protect your future Intended from the rest of the faculty."

The tease caused Balam to blush heavily, far too flustered to even stammer a defense. What Balam saw in you, Kalego couldn’t understand himself. But the fact he was interested in you inherently meant to Kalego you were worth protecting - if even just for Balam’s sake.

Why the demon couldn’t find someone who could protect themself was beyond him. And why you were so weak compared to your father and son, Kalego was determined to figure out.

--+--

Brawl Inn was a small building in the wastelands not far from the town of Babyls. A simple, old-fashioned inn-style building, with even an area for tethering horses.

Or at least, the Netherworld version of horses. You dismounted Podargos, giving the nightmare a loving pat on the muzzle before tying her to the fence where there was fresh water and feed (fresh ground meat and other things you did not wish to think about) already set out by the Inn staff.

Sullivan assured you no matter what state you were in later, Podargos would get you home. And you had to believe him; she always seemed gentle and sure of herself. She was the first you had ridden, and never needed any correction as soon as you told her 'home.'

Still, your nerves twisted your stomach as you stood outside - trying to psych yourself up.

This wasn’t going to be like back in the human realm. Your demonic coworkers were far better than your human ones had been. Oddly enough, they weren’t as vicious or cutthroat, or prone to backstabbing. You vaguely remembered Kalego’s comment that forcing others to drink was against their rules.

You didn’t know if that meant subtle challenges as well or not, but it was still reassuring.

Yet you were unable to open the door and enter. You could hear boisterous talking and laughter coming from inside, reminding you of your past. Being so wrapped up in everything, making bad decisions, feeling so horrible the morning after. 

And always the teasing taunts…

Was Balam already here? You had messaged him shortly after leaving Sullivan's office, and had texted him through the remainder of the afternoon and evening. He had offered to escort you, but admitted he was also likely going to have his hands full trying to convince Kalego to attend. 

You had reassured him you could manage, sympathizing that he was likely going to have a hard enough time with Kalego. But right now, the thought of him by your side, large hand braced against your back as he reassured you everything would be okay was severely tempting.

The sound of flapping wings pulled you from your thoughts and you looked up in time to see Kalego and Balam arrive. Seeing a demon’s wings was always a shock, considering most of the time they were hidden, and you couldn’t resist a moment to study the two’s own pair. Kalego’s was dark and glossy skin, large yet lithe. They were a pair from a typical legend, whereas Balam's…

Dark green feathers with a span that was nearly as long as he was tall. You knew you had seen them before in the chaos of Walter park, but you hadn’t been able to appreciate them.

Granted, you couldn’t exactly appreciate them now either; because as soon as the two landed, their wings folded back into virtual non-existence.

"You weren’t waiting for us, were you?” Balam asked after greeting you cheerfully by name.

“No, I, um, just got here,” You explained awkwardly. It wasn’t quite a lie, you hoped only a few minutes had passed while you were having a moment.

“Let’s get this over with,” Kalego sighed, pushing past you towards the door. Balam’s arm wrapped around your mid back, providing warmth and safety that you had just been craving. You felt your face flush, but also pressed closer to him, seeking further reassurance. 

If he was here, you knew you would be safe.

The chattering you had been hearing suddenly silenced as soon as Kalego had opened the door, making you tense.

The inside of the bar was dark with just a few candles lit to offer a trace amount of light. You pressed closer to Balam’s arm - some instinctual part of you terrified as a robed figure stepped out of the shadows and held out a hand towards you. “Welcome, you who strive to fill the role of the Librarian of Babyls…”

“Must you really be so dramatic?” Kalego growled, interrupting the deep voice. “Seriously, Dali, she’s already worked in the library for a few months."

There was a pout on Dali’s face as he pulled back his hood. "It’s tradition, Kalego. I thought you of all demons would respect that."

"There’s hardly a need for theatrics with this one,” Kalego shot back, gesturing sharply to you. “At this point it’s a mere formality."

"You’re just jealous you didn’t get the role to scare her.” Robin stepped out of the gloom, pointing an accusing finger at Kalego. “Or you would have jumped at the chance!"

Kalego huffed and crossed his arms. "Don’t be ridiculous.”

Someone grumbled about the effect being ruined, and with a snap the lights flared to life. More of the teachers lowered their hoods and chimed their own thoughts of how things should have went.

“Are they always like this?” You whispered as the argument–bickering, really– continued.

“Well, not usually…” Balam admitted quietly. “But typically one is initiated when they first start. You’re a bit of a special case."

"Can we just hurry up and get this over with?” Elder Morax complained rather loudly. “I thought the main event tonight would be celebrating!”

Dali sighed, conceding he had lost. “Very well. Please, step forward, Ms. Suzuki.” He gestured to you, and Balam’s protective touch became a gentle nudge forward. You looked up at him, almost pleading. He smiled reassuringly, silently affirming it would be okay. 

You gulped and hesitantly stepped towards Dali. As soon as you did, a crimson circle flared to life beneath your feet, symbols carving themselves into the stone floor. You recognized a few Runes, but the fear had your mind preoccupied too much to try and study it.

That, and magic flowing from it was near palpable, making the hair at the nape of your neck raise as your heart quickened.

“To be a part of Babyls is a highly sought after opportunity,” Dali started, his usual cheerful demeanor shifting into one far more serious. "To guide and guard the treasure of Babyls, its students, is the highest honor next to being among the Thirteen Crowns. Do you pledge your life to protect our treasure above all else? Do you swear that their safety and wellbeing will be of higher importance than your own life?”

You could tell that this wasn’t some meaningless pledge. You could feel the magic waiting for your answer; to bind your pledge deeper than just your word, but to your very core.

It made you hesitate and think - was this really what you wanted to do? Yes, you loved Iruma and his classmates, and were fond of many other students… but did you care for them to the point of agreeing to yet another magical contract? 

You reflected on the fact of just how much your life had improved since coming to the Netherworld. How you had quickly come to love this world full of demons and dangers. 

And becoming the Librarian of Babyls had been one the best things that had happened to you. 

The magic tugged at you, demanding an answer.

Hell, it was better than the fishery. And you had to admit, being a librarian at Babyls? Swearing to protect the children with your life?

 There could be worse fates.

“I swear,” You answered, meeting Dali’s eyes firmly, and instantly felt the magic snap into place. The odd sensation took your breath away as the symbols flared a fiery red beneath you. 

There was a strange notion that maybe you hadn’t sold your soul to Sullivan after all…

But instead had just signed it over to Babyls.

A thunderous applause broke out from the surrounding teachers as the circle faded into nothing, and before you could blink, Balam had swung you off your feet, lifting you until you were sitting on his shoulders. You clutched to him, stunned by the sudden change as you looked down at everyone.

Smiling. Cheering. Even Kalego had a faint smile on his face.

You knew you had made the right choice.

--+--

Where you had been defensive around your previous coworkers - feeling as if you had to constantly prove yourself and be on guard - here you didn’t.

They easily accepted the fact you didn’t want any alcohol, and in fact had many recommendations on non-alcoholic drinks instead. Despite being new and a bit of an outsider, you didn’t feel excluded.

Actually, quite the opposite. In a blur of events, you had been dragged from Balam’s side to a separate table across the large room, where most of the female teachers had gathered. Not just Raim and Momonoki; but Suzy, Furcus, and Tsumuru too.

Which, the latter confused you, since you thought Tsumuru was male, but decided to just go with it. It wasn't your place to judge, or even question.

“We actually have a full table now!” Tsumuru cheered, being echoed by the others.

“I have to admit, I do love what you’ve done with the library,” Furcus admitted, the older woman smiling softly at you, looking rather tired. “Through the years, no one’s really paid much attention to the organization of it.”

“A lot of the students have enjoyed the new study spaces,” Tsumuru added, making you flush from the attention. “I’ve even seen an increase in grades, which I can’t contribute to anything else but the library’s renovation. I was so excited when Dali said you were being initiated! I can only imagine how you’ll help in the future!"

"Those cubbies also make for good make-out spots,” Raim added with a wink, making you flush even more. “Or have you and Balam found that out already?”

You paled at the insinuation. Especially as everyone's attention turned to you, eager to hear the gossip apparently. A lump filled your throat as you looked downwards, avoiding their looks. 

This was what you were avoiding, partly. But…. avoiding was obviously not causing The Rumor to die away, so….

“W-we aren’t courting, despite what the rumors say,” You stated with a bit of a stammer, deciding there was no way to avoid the topic - so you were going to face it head on. With blunt honesty.

“What?!"

It wasn’t just Raim and Momonoki giving you incredulous looks as you had expected - it was all of them. Even perpetually calm Suzy and Furcus looked surprised.

"No, that’s just not possible!” Momonoki protested, her pale face flushed as she clenched her fists. “J-just look at you two! It’s obvious!”

“It’s more obvious than her crush on Kalego,” Suzy chimed, gesturing to the blue-haired teacher who blushed even more, yet nodded in agreement.

“Exactly! How are you two not courting?"

You rubbed your face, willing the burning sensation to fade from your face. "Look, it's… it’s like this. We fell into an easy friendship–camaraderie,” You corrected, seeing their odd looks, “…because of mutual interests. And his skinship is a perfect match for my own…issues. But that isn’t to say we’re romantically interested in each other.”

Raim frowned and leaned on the table, drawing closer to you. “I am a succubus, remember? I can literally taste the attraction between you, so don’t give me that devibullshit."

Wait. Could Succubi do that?

The others were nodding, so you had to assume they could, and that Raim wasn’t lying. 

"I mean, I-I am kinda… interested… in him…” You admitted, casting a glance to the table across the room where the other staff were. They were by far louder, so you doubted that anyone else could overhear the infamous Girl Talk you had been dreading.

Yet almost sensing you were looking at him, Balam shifted to look at you - head tilted to express his concern. You blushed deeper but gave a small wave, letting him know you were fine.

Even if you were internally dying of embarrassment.

The corners of his eyes crinkled as he smiled and returned your small wave before his attention was caught by Robin invading Kalego’s space once more.

You looked back, and found everyone giving you a look that virtually said: 'See! Totally obvious!'

“Are you telling me that you two are mutually interested in each other,” Raim virtually seethed. “But not even having fun behind closed doors? Have you even said anything?!”

You blinked, startled by the severe expression on her face. You had no idea she - or the others - had been so invested in the relationship between you and Balam.

"It's… it's complicated, okay!" You insisted, fidgeting under their intense looks. "I mean, it's hard to explain, but let me assure you, Balam's…not interested in me like that." 

Snorts and giggles echoed from around the table. "Oh, oh Devi--" Tsumuru wheezed. "That's just--!"

"I have known Balam since he was a student," Furcus continued with a smile. "He's never paid a single person this kind of attention, even when he and Kalego were virtually taking on the whole school. The attention he gives you rivals that of his passion for the study of imaginary creatures."

You had to carefully not react to that, and took a long drink from your glass. 

Yeah. That… that was exactly your problem. You were an imaginary creature, after all. He didn't see you as a potential romantic partner, just a very precious specimen. 

"I say," Raim started, a wicked smile on her face, "You just take him into one of those nooks in the library and show him what your feelings are."

You spluttered before coughing, your drink threatening to go down your windpipe. "What?! I-I can't… I can't do that!" 

"Why not?" She huffed. "Believe me, demons like Balam would go crazy for someone taking the lead. Those big buff men are often the softest subs, and driving them crazy is always so much fun…" 

It felt like your cheeks were on fire and you were sure your face was redder than Tsumuru's puffy pigtails as you slid down in your seat. Because your gutter mind had happily appeared, summoned by the mere brief thought of that kind of situation, and had grabbed the idea to run with. 

Being alone in one of the quiet nooks, away from prying ears and eyes. Balam sitting in one of the reclining chairs, easily dwarfing the furniture meant for students. Then… you… straddling his lap, taking control.

You could easily imagine him whining after the other day, moaning so prettily as you teased him. That blissed, vulnerable look on his face taking on a whole new meaning. 

Him smiling up at you, enjoying whatever pleasure you were giving him.

"Awww, look at her!" Raim coo'd. "I think she likes that idea." 

You covered your face in shame with a whimper. "Oh my devi. Just kill me now." Not only had your imagination run wild, but everyone had a pretty good idea of what you had been imagining. And with who. 

"Not before you get a chance to live out that dream!" Momonoki stated rather cheerfully. "I mean, between us both crushing on the school's most powerful teachers, you actually have a shot of those daydreams becoming true!" 

"I don't though!" You whined. "And even if I did… I don't know… I haven’t really done this before." You admitted guiltily, which was a whole nother piece of the problem. Yes, before you had some… one night stands and all, well before Iruma came into your life. 

But… romance? What you wanted with Balam? “This is unfamiliar territory for me!”

“But, Iruma is your son,” Furcus added, a frown gracing her face. “You can’t have children without mating."

“T-that, was…” You trailed off, fear flooding through your mind as you worried about being caught in your lie. You had built a backstory, but hadn’t quite explained it to Iruma - and you weren’t sure what he had said about the matter. What if he had said something that would contradict you? What if it planted seeds of doubt in their minds?

Devi, if only adoptions were normal in the Netherworld. But you had seen it yourself at Walter Park; most demons were demonish in that aspect.

“Is the rumor of his father true?” Tsumuru asked as your pause became stagnant. “He’s really not present?"

"It was one of those… unintended things,” You awkwardly excused, not completely sure how deep a hole you were digging yourself. But surely demons had one-night stands? And maybe decided to keep any child conceived afterwards?

“I’ve had plenty of those,” Raim sighed dreamily, destroying any doubt. “Though, you know there are plenty of… remedies for afterwards.”

You shrugged your shoulders, trying to act sheepish, or maybe casual; anything but absolutely relieved. “Yeah, but… Iruma’s one of the best things in my life so I don’t regret anything.”

“While that is adorable,” Momonoki interjected. “Our main concern should be that our dear librarian hasn’t courted before, and we all know Balam hasn’t either. They’re both helpless! We need to help them!”

Suzy hummed a bit too innocently, “You just want a real-life romance novel to play out before your eyes, don’t you?"

The other demon turned a bright shade of pink."That is totally besides the point!”

“You guys,” You whined. “It really isn’t that big of a deal. Balam and I…we’ll figure it out.”

Part of you still doubted the truth in Raim's claim. Or, maybe if Balam was physically attracted to you… he wasn't romantically? 

You whined again as you buried your face in your hands. This was all so confusing. Just as you were able to convince yourself you would be okay with a platonic relationship…

Suzy patted your head reassuringly. “I’m sure you will. But if you ever need some advice, feel free to ask. I courted many a demon back in my day before deciding to pledge my life to Babyls."

You looked up, trying to imagine the devibotany teacher… dating. While adorable, in a way, it also seemed rather… wrong. 

"I would be happy in giving you a few pointers and tips on seduction," Raim offered with a wink. "Together, we could have that giant of a demon wrapped around your finger.” She smirked while twirling her own hair around her graceful fingers, making you blush deeper.

Furcus snorted, “You say that as if he isn’t already."

Tsumuru nodded, "You don’t have to be a master at psychiatry like myself to know he has it bad."

”And,” Raim continued in a staged whisper, leaning over the table closer to you. "Once he’s wrapped around your finger, you can finally wrap yourself around his–"

You gave a startled yelp and quickly covered her mouth, too embarrassed to hear those words spoken aloud. 

--+--

The evening became livelier as the 'Ladies Table' (plus Tsumuru but again, you weren't going to question) joined the others. 

To probably no one’s surprise, you ended up once more next to Balam; and all too aware of the 'supportive’ gestures from your female colleagues, ranging from subtle thumbs up and winks to awkward gestures that you had no idea what they meant - but seemed vulgar anyways.

You could only pray Balam hadn’t noticed them or the fact you would suddenly pull his attention elsewhere in an attempt to keep him from noticing. If he had, he kept silent and just rolled with your antics.

Balam was his usual 'touchy' self, his hand usually either brushing mindlessly in your hair, or rubbing your back and shoulder. It was impossible not to relax into him, soaking in his warmth and comfort.

Soon, Robin and Dali pulled out games like Bingo and Charades, along with some Netherworld games you had no name for but inevitably had you laughing until your ribs hurt. Partly just because of the antics of the others as they drank more and more while you stayed sober. 

But, you had a feeling you would have ended up having a good time regardless. It truly was nothing like your previous experiences; you were thoroughly enjoying yourself. Especially as Balam helped you somewhat sneakily with the games, surprising you. 

He'd just wink slightly, a pink tinge to his pale cheeks.

He was also the only one that could more or less compel Kalego to participate as well, which made you giggle as the other demon grumbled half-heartedly. 

And, well, having fun and being happy filled you with a sort of boldness, leading you to tease the dark haired demon. Kalego would take it in stride and subtly return the teasing with light-hearted taunts. Which - judging by Balam’s excited reactions as the two of you bantered back and forth - meant Kalego had officially accepted you into the fold.

"One last game!" Robin announced dramatically, gesturing to the wait staff of the Inn. "The one that no night celebrating is complete without! Truth or dare!"

You couldn't quite believe it. Truth or dare? It seemed like such a childish game to you. But the intoxicated staff cheered as if it sounded like an amazing idea.

Granted… they were also very drunk. There were many tired glassy eyes; Raim and Momonoki leaning against each other to stay in their seats, Orias had lost his hat sometime to Buer at one point, and you had to admit the purple fedora looked odd on the typically serious demon. Suzy was all but laying on the table, her small tail twitching lazily rather like a cats, and her eyes barely open. 

And yet a few didn't seem to be as affected by the alcohol. Kalego and Balam both, for instance. Yes, Balam's touch was more firm, slowly pulling you from your seat and virtually into his lap. And Kalego had a small smile on his lips, no longer bothering to continue with the displeased facade. Ifrit and Dali both seemed more relaxed, but likewise unaffected.

The inn staff cleared the table, and placed shot glasses before everyone. You could tell they were going to skip you as they had done before when bringing out rounds (though would return with another kind of drink should you want one). 

Maybe it was because you were tired, or you felt relaxed, but you gestured to them to leave you a shot glass. One small shot surely wouldn't affect you that badly. 

"Are you sure?" Balam asked softly when he realized your intentions. 

"Just one," You reassured. "If I'm too bad, just call dad for me. No need for you to suffer like last time."

His cheeks darkened slightly, his hand squeezing you a little tighter at the memory. "That… that was no trouble." 

You were about to argue that being used as a pillow and sleeping upright could not have been very comfortable when Robin clapped his hands to gather everyone's attention. 

"Okay! We all know the rules, but since some of us barely remember our names right now …"

"Robin!" Momonoki exclaimed, sounding rather proud until Raim giggled, drawing her closer.

"That's his name, my dear, not yours."

"Oh…"

Robin simply gestured to the pair, as if they proved his point. "So, I'll start, and then whoever I call on goes next. You can answer a truth or a dare, or if you're a cockatriece, you can take a shot." 

"No daring illegal… things," Dali added lazily. "No nudity or streaking."

"Damn it," Both Tsumuru and Elder Morax groaned together. 

"We still do work together, and I don't want another prank war to start out as vengeance."

"You're the one who started it," Kalego mentioned casually, though there was a mischievous glint in his eyes. Dali narrowed his eyes and leaned closer, pointing at the other demon.

"Listen, just because you're our guard dog and technically higher rank doesn't mean I won't wipe the floor with you, pup." 

Kalego huffed, a smirk growing on his lips. "I believe you said that last time, and I recall I won that time as well." 

"Okay, Suzy!" Robin interrupted hurriedly. "Truth or Dare."

"Mngh, I don't want to move," She sighed as she nestled her head in her folded arms on the table. "So truth." 

"Er, what plant is your favorite?" The green haired demon asked weakly.

"That's easy. My gatling daffodils, of course. They're so pretty and deadly…" 

As she called on Elder Morax (who had apparently already taken his shot and needed to be poured another) You turned your attention to Balam and asked quietly: "What happened between Dali and Kalego?" 

Balam played with your hair carelessly as he sighed. "Last year when Kalego hosted, Dali had done something to annoy him. I can't remember what, but when we were playing, Kalego dared Dali to dress in a maid outfit for a month. Well, Dali never turns down a challenge."  He laughed softly, the sound of his chuckle making your stomach squirm. "I think there are still a few students unable to look him in the eye. But, after the month was up, Dali… decided he wasn't going to allow Kalego to go unpunished for that." 

You snorted, and could only imagine considering Dali's reputation. 

"Oh little miss librarian~" Raim coo'd, making you freeze. 

No. Oh no. You looked over at the Seduction teacher and saw the devious expression in her hooded eyes as she leaned on the table, pointing her shot glass at you.  

"Truth. Or. Dare."

This was a childish game, you had just thought that minutes ago. But now the implications were crashing down around you. All the secrets that you held, from embarrassing to life-threatening. 

Everyone's eyes were on you, not letting you weigh the pros, cons, and risks. "Truth?" You answered weakly, and felt Balam's hand move to squeeze yours reassuringly.

An even more impish smile crossed Raim's lips. "I dare you to admit your feelings."

Your heart was lodged in your throat, even as Robin coughed. "Raim, she chose truth, not dare." 

Raim frowned, her mind working against the fogginess encasing it, but you didn't wait for her to find her words. You grabbed the shot glass and tipped it back quickly, feeling the burn instantly rush down your throat before you slammed the glass on the table.

Startled expressions focused on you as you winced and wheezed from the burn, screwing your face as the odd taste of mint did nothing to make it any more palatable. "God, is this actual mouthwash?" 

"Our little librarian has quite a mouth on her," Dali chuckled moments before grins and applause rang out, the teachers apparently impressed and too intoxicated to realize you had dodged Raim's question - especially as you quickly called on Kalego, hoping to keep them from noticing. 

Though, judging by the light in his eyes, Kalego had noticed, and was both interested and suspicious. Yet, by the grace of some deity, he did not return the attention back to you after your pitiful question about his interest in Cacti.

 (Yes, he had a collection of various cacti. Which was surprising to you, as you assumed it had just been an odd rumor the misfits had created). 

And… Well, you were too nervous to look at Balam despite being able to virtually feel the curiosity rolling off him in waves. 

Or maybe that was the anxiety and vague paranoia mixing with the shot. It didn't affect you like downing the whole glass back at Walter Park, but still felt like you had more than one normal shot.

Thankfully, the game didn't last long enough for anyone to call on you yet again. In fact, within half an hour, most of the other teachers were passed out either against the table or spread out on the floor.

"Is it really okay to leave Robin with everyone?” You asked as you left with Balam and Kalego. 

“He arranged it and allowed Dali to partake as well,” Kalego replied with a snort. “He needs to take responsibility for his actions."

"Considering most of them live in the teachers’ dorms, he won’t have that much difficulty,” Balam assured, his hand rubbing your back thoughtlessly as he looked down at you. “Are you okay with returning home?"

The nightmare in question - still patiently waiting at her post - snorted and pawed a hoof as if insulted by Balam’s implication. You laughed at the Nightmare's antics before smiling up at him. "Podargos will make sure I get home safe and sound. Dad and Opera trained her well."

Yet despite the reassurance, Balam seemed reluctant to let you go. His hand brushed your cheek softly as he held your gaze, making your stomach drop and your heart pick up pace. 

The words of Raim and the others echoed in your head as you lost yourself in the darkness of his eyes. Maybe it was their insistence, and the liquid courage flowing through you that made you hope that maybe they were right. That his feeling's weren't entirely platonic...

Yet, even if they were right, and your dreams were closer to reality, you were still so lost on what to do next. Even if he was human, you wouldn't be sure what the next step would be. Romance hadn't been a thing for you. 

Was it unfair of you to wait for him to make that next move - to make his intentions known? 

Or was he waiting for you?

Devi, he’d probably end up waiting forever if he was. You don’t know if you possessed the boldness to take that next step without his lead.

"Shichiro,” Kalego called dryly, interrupting the moment. “Shall I leave you two alone? I would like to be home before dawn."

"Still feeling that last glass, Kalego?” You couldn’t help but tease despite the warmth spreading across your cheeks, realizing how long you had been caught up appreciating Balam while lost in your thoughts.

Kalego's eyes narrowed slightly, though you hoped it was in good humor. “I applaud the fact you restrained yourself from drinking very much. I hate to see what other rumors the school would be concocting if everyone witnessed you crawling into Shichiro’s lap to sleep."

Your face turned deep red and you were torn between seething and trying to save whatever reputation you had left. 

"You two…” Balam sighed, shaking his head though you didn't miss the faint blush on his own cheeks.

Wait… did he… did he know about The Rumour? Was there something you were missing? 

You were too tired to even think about tackling that tonight.

“Well,” You sighed as you turned your full attention back to Balam. “Since Kalego apparently needs help finding his way home~”

“I do not–” Kalego hissed.

"-- I should say goodnight as well."  Without really thinking, you reached up and patted Balam’s cheek, barely able to reach. The giant demon quickly leaned down so you could reach easier, almost eager to feel your touch.  

And - well, the temptation to run your fingers through his hair was too much for you to resist. It was just so soft and silky between your fingers. Just a few small strokes and Balam’s eyes had fluttered shut as he leaned more into your touch. 

He looked so happy, so content - so utterly cute. Your heart felt overwhelmed, completely overriding any logical thoughts your mind was trying to send. 

You gave into impulse and leaned in closer to press a quick kiss to his cheek. Half on his mask, half on his skin leading to an odd contrast of hot and cool against your lips as you lingered. 

There was a faint metallic taste on your tongue as you pulled away after a moment. Your stomach twisted into a tighter knot at the expression in his eyes. His pupil had narrowed, reminding you briefly of the illustrations you had seen about demons entering an evil-cycle. 

It was a look of hunger and something else you were admittingly too scared to name. One that sent thrills and a different kind of heat tingling down your spine.

“Goodnight, Shichiro.” You whispered after a moment, body somehow on autopilot as you stepped away, feeling rather like a rabbit stepping away from a hawk. 

You mindlessly nodded at Kalego, bidding him goodnight, somehow able to turn your back to Shichiro Balam, yet swearing you could feel his eyes follow you as you walked to Podargos. You managed to undo the knot keeping her tethered with shaky hands before pulling yourself up in the saddle.

You still didn't look back as you urged her home. She didn't need any other command as she took off in a gallop. 

--+--

Silence hung over the two demons as they watched the nightmare disappear into the darkness, carrying you with it. Kalego spread his wings, knowing that Shichiro would follow even in his baffled state.

Sure enough, a second later, his companion was in the sky beside him; the ruffle of feathers against the wind near-silent. Silence hung between them as they headed towards the forest that contained their individual homes. The Nabarius heir chosen to guard the school was allotted their own place not far from the school itself, and Balam preferred solitude versus the teacher's dorm for obvious reasons - though he practically lived in his prep room at school.

Kalego knew the blessed silence wouldn’t last for very long. Not after witnessing your bold display. At this rate, he wasn't sure who was going to cave in first, though there had been a brief moment he thought he would have to intervene possibly on Shichiro's behalf, feeling his mana spike as if he was moments away from tackling and claiming you right then and there. 

Which, given everything, would have caused a very large headache. 

Before they reached the first trees of the forest, Shichiro finally broke the silence with a whisper. "She kissed me…”

Kalego sighed faintly. “I saw.” Truely, Kalego was happy for Shichiro. He hadn't seen him this happy or excited in such a long time. 

But why did you have to finally end Shichiro’s doubts tonight? Kalego was already mentally worn out from the long week, plus the hours of forced social interaction. He just wanted to go home, have a long hot shower, and sleep. That is all he wanted at this point.

“And called me Shichiro!” Balam’s awed whisper turned into giddiness, and Kalego could easily imagine his companion blushing furiously despite the sky being so dark, the moons barely providing any light. 

There were only two demons (himself and Opera, of course) outside the family that called Shichiro by his given name. Everyone else was too terrified of the gentle giant to take such liberties.

“I was there for that as well,” Unfortunately, Kalego added mentally. He was actually surprised it took you this long, to be honest. After all, you had the whole Misfit class calling you mom now - if rumors proved correct. He had figured you had been using Shichiro in private for weeks now.

Apparently not.

A flap of feathered wings and Balam was gliding next to Kalego, the tips of his wings about brushing his. “Thank you, Kalego," Shichiro stated softly, "for changing your mind."

Part of his aggravation faded away, and Kalego nodded slightly. "It wasn’t too terrible, I suppose.” The finest wine money could buy, all from the Chair demon’s own account. The food was surprisingly decent for a dive bar, and there had been a few amusing moments.

The moment of peace shortly faded as Balam all but giggled. “I can’t believe she actually kissed me!"

Kalego decided he should have taken a bottle of wine home with him after all.

Hell, if he was going to endure this… "So, what are you going to give her as an offering when you ask to court her?"

There was a flutter of wings as Balam faltered mid air with a choked noise, making Kalego smirk.

He might get some amusement out of this yet. 

--+-- Su-Ki-Ma--+--

Opera calmly poured Lord Sullivan’s tea, though their mind was full of unrest. You and Iruma had become close, and they acknowledged both of you as members of the Sullivan family, and therefore under their protection.

And as such, they worried about your safety. You weren't just an amusing possession of his Lord's to keep safe until Sullivan grew tired. You were now Opera's Lady to protect with their life. 

"Not to question your decision…” Opera started as they set the kettle aside. “But is it wise to have her sworn in as a Babyls faculty?” 

After all, a human under the Oath of Babyls? The ceremony and rite was old, ancient magic that bound a teacher to the school and their duties. How would it even react to a human? Would it be the same, or cause you to suffer?

“You said it yourself,” Lord Sullivan stated calmly as he picked up his tea cup. “Evil is stirring, even here at Babyls. Iruma will be well protected between his ring and his classmates, though I plan to ask Barbatos Bachinko to continue to tutor him. However, my dear daughter does not have his power or allies. Even if she becomes Balam’s intended, the Oath will force him to put the students before her. But, if she is sworn in as faculty…”

“Then the others will see her as one of them, even if her identity is revealed,” Opera finished as they realized Sullivan’s true intent. “They will be more inclined to protect her as well."

Sullivan nodded before smiling softly. "Plus, she really is as antisocial as Kalego. She could stand to use a few more– what do they call them? Friends? Humans are social creatures after all…"

Opera nodded before shifting to attend their other duties. They needed to trust their Lord. Despite his eccentric tendencies, he was still a powerful and wise demon, one that was deserving of the title Demon King in Opera's humble opinion. 

But yet… a seed of worry continued to fester. What game was Sullivan playing with these two humans? 

[littlfrcak]

☠︎︎ starter with @thxbellamour

¸ campos de morango.

⭑🕯️ʿ o cheiro do fogo ainda parecia impregnado em seus cabelos apesar de já ter lavado várias vezes nos últimos dias. como se as cinzas tivessem manchado atrás das unhas e não importasse o quanto lavasse a mão, não conseguisse se livrar. aos poucos parecia esquecer onde estava porque apesar de ter sentado com as costas contra uma das árvores ali perto do campo, a mente estava longe. a vista começava a embaçar nas bordas, a ter vários pontos pretos que eram rapidamente substituído com a visão de lá. o bosque estava contemplando não era o do acampamento. a vegetação que via não era os arbustos de morango. não. eram as árvores densas do antigo bosque que cercava sua primeira casa. o cheiro no ar não era mais das frutas docinhas e sim da madeira queimada, dos tecidos destruídos. o grito que ouvia não parecia mais de diversão como as crianças faziam mais distante, era de dor.

era ele quem gritava.

não estava mais nos campos de morango porque sua memória tinha lhe levado direto para o local onde viu sua mãe pela última vez. o fatídico dia em que quase morreu, que o fogo lambeu tudo e não deixou nada para trás, que quase tirou sua vida também. estava em perigo. precisava correr, precisava ir para longe. aqueles homens ainda se encontravam por perto então tinha que sair dali o mais rápido possível. mas como fazer isso se seus ouvidos doíam? zubiam com o barulho da explosão? a garganta seca de tanto gritar e a pele doendo do contato com o fogo.

era apenas uma criança.

abruptamente, algo encostava em si. ah não, eles lhe encontraram. dessa vez sabia como reagir, como se defender. e a aura preta que começava a emanar em combinação com os olhos tão escuro quanto, agora eram enviados na direção do perigo, daquela pessoa que lhe tocava. precisava se proteger.

[innerpalaces]

THE PRINCESS WEI YANG - 189 PART 1

CHAPTER 189: Visiting Relatives in the Palace

Yuan Ying inherited the beauty of the Yuexi imperial family and the calmness of the Guo family. Although he was born into the imperial family, he did not have too much arrogance and had a good temper. He always smiled and was very approachable. But in Li Wei Yang's view, he is a very interesting person. If she saw it right, there was clearly a domineering aura in this man's eyes, and he definitely wasn't an ordinary person. What he said to her that day was actually a warning to her not to harm the Guo family no matter what her purpose was. Moreover, this kind of concern is not because he is worried that his power will be damaged, but because he is sincerely protecting his relatives. In a sense, such a man is obviously more responsible than the ruthless Tuoba Zhen.

If she followed Gracious Consort Guo's wishes and married Yuan Ying, it would give her an even stronger tie to the Guo family, and for her, she would be closer to her enemies. If it were in the past, she might not hesitate to use all means to seek revenge, even risking herself. But now, for some reason, she did not have this kind of thought.

Consort Guo looked at Madam Guo and said with a smile: "Originally, these words should not be said in front of the children, but you and I are both candid people, so we might as well just say them out. Although Yuan Ying is my son, you have also watched him grow up, and he has not contracted any of the bad habits of those aristocratic children, and if he dares to bully Jia'er in the future, I will definitely deal with him."

Li Wei Yang showed a surprised look. Gracious Consort Guo actually said it so clearly... But, dealing with Yuan Ying? She glanced at the smiling tiger opposite and shook her head inwardly.

Madam Guo understood what the Gracious Consort meant. After all, everyone knew how strict she was in disciplining Yuan Ying. Once upon a time, Yuan Ying secretly snuck out of the palace. At such a young age, he knew how to ask for leave from the Imperial Tutor, so he only hid it from Gracious Consort Guo. When Gracious Consort Guo found out, she thought he was being a playboy so she ordered her guards to bring him back to the palace. The princes in Yuexi are different from those in Dali. If a prince here makes a mistake, even his own mother cannot beat him casually. There will be a special companion to take the beating for him. But Yuan Ying's reading companion was Guo Dun from the Guo family. It was absolutely impossible for Consort Guo to touch him, so she beat Yuan Ying severely without a second thought. Gracious Consort Guo is different from those delicate palace concubines. She comes from a family of military generals. Due to poor health since childhood, the eldest princess Chen Liu specially invited the best masters to teach her martial arts. After entering the palace, her martial arts training was abandoned, but the foundation was still there, and she was unambiguous in fighting people. Poor Yuan Ying was beaten, but he refused to say what he was doing outside the palace. Gracious Consort Guo became more and more angry, breaking the bamboo sticks, and finally even alerted the Emperor. Yuan Ying lay in bed for half a month without even groaning. When others came to see him, he still had a smile on his face.

It wasn't until Consort Guo's birthday a month later that she saw a white jade Guanyin given by Yuan Ying and realized that her son had prepared a birthday gift for her. While feeling regretful, she also lamented her son's stubbornness. In fact, Yuan Ying could have told everything, but he prepared the birthday gift to give his mother an unexpected surprise, so he insisted on his original intention and refused to tell the truth. From this incident, one can understand that Yuan Ying has an extremely strong side in his character.

At this moment, when Yuan Ying heard Consort Guo's words, he kept a moderate smile on his face, but his eyes looked thoughtful.

Li Wei Yang was nervous seeing his gaze. She had a premonition that Yuan Ying would agree to the marriage, even if it was just to marry her home and watch her. Does she seem so unreliable? She has obviously said repeatedly that no matter what she does in the future, she will try her best to take care of the Guo family. But it was obvious that the other party was very suspicious and did not trust her.

Madam Guo did not expect that Gracious Consort Guo would talk about this, and sighed in her heart. This sister is good at everything, and she also looks shrewd in front of outsiders. How come she is completely defenseless when she comes to family. If she mentions it privately, couldn't the two of them make some plans and matches up the two children? Being so hasty now, she's afraid Jia'er will be unhappy.

In fact, Madam Guo is willing in her heart, because she loves Guo Jia so much and is afraid that she will be even a little wronged in the future. However, her daughter will eventually get married, and she cannot keep her for the rest of her life. But if she marries someone else, if her life does not go well, wouldn't she feel heartbroken to death? Only Yuan Ying is different. For one thing, Gracious Consort Guo is his sister-in-law, and she has a very good relationship with her, and she has a protective personality. When Jia'er is married, she will never face any difficulties from her mother-in-law. Secondly, Madam Guo has watched Yuan Ying since she was a child. He is capable and has a good personality. She has never seen him lose his temper... No matter how you look at this kind of husband, you feel that he is good.

It's a pity that Yuan Ying was born in the imperial family. If in the future... Madam Guo is a little selfish in her heart. She would rather her daughter not have glory and wealth, but just have a peaceful life. So, she smiled and said: "Look at you, you are so anxious, Jia'er has just come back!"

Since she didn't immediately decline, and also tactfully postponed the marriage, Madam Guo's words were also very artistic. Consort Guo was very smart and understood as soon as she heard it. She nodded and said, "Yes, you mother and daughter have just reunited. You must be reluctant to marry her off now. We might as well talk about it later." As she said that, she turned to look at her son and said: "I just want you to be close, do you understand?"

There was a commanding tone in her words, obviously she was joking. Yuan Ying immediately laughed, glanced at Li Wei Yang, and said: "Son understands."

There was a hint of a smile in his eyes, but Li Wei Yang lowered her head and deliberately pretended not to understand.

Gracious Consort Guo looked at the two people and felt that this was more and more likely to be the case, so she said to Madam Guo: "I have already taken care of things. You will stay in the palace this time."

Li Wei Yang was slightly surprised when she heard this. It is not allowed to stay overnight in the Dali Palace... Even if it is a female family member, it is the same, but now it seems that there is no such rule in the palace in Yuexi. Seeing the look of surprise on her face, Gracious Consort Guo smiled and said: "It's taboo if you are an outsider, but you are my closest relatives. I have already explained to His Majesty that I will keep you here for a few days. What's wrong with this?"

Li Wei Yang just smiled, and Madam Guo already agreed: "Then I thank You Majesty." Although she said this, she was actually ready to stay in the palace temporarily, and she even put a suitcase in the carriage at the back. It's just that she forgot to explain it to Li Wei Yang.

Madam Guo thought for a moment and then asked: "According to the rules, we should pay our respects to Empress Pei and the other consorts."

When Gracious Consort Guo heard her mention Empress Pei, her smile suddenly cooled down and she said, "Sister-in-law, my status in the palace is second only to Empress Pei. You don't need to see the other consorts at all. As for Empress Pei, she has already said, as long as the concubines and their relatives enter the palace, they only need to go through the proper procedures and there is no need for her to meet each of them."

These were polite words, but it was obvious that Consort Guo deliberately "complied with the rules". Li Wei Yang laughed. This aunt's personality is really tough enough.

Gracious Consort Guo led them to eat, but the dishes were very ordinary. Gracious Consort Guo saw that Li Wei Yang did not show any particular surprise. She nodded secretly and was more satisfied with this future daughter-in-law. She took the initiative to explain: "Jia'er, the dishes in the palace are too luxurious and expensive. I still like these folk dishes best, don't mind it."

Li Wei Yang just smiled: "What do you mean, your majesty? I often hear my mother talk about it at home. Your majesty loved to eat the fried meat with alfalfa and Sixi meatballs the most. Although they are ordinary dishes, they are the most heartwarming."

The Guo family are very charming and have a very happy family life. No wonder Consort Guo is unwilling to forget her life before she was married. Li Wei Yang understands this very well.

Seeing that she spoke so appropriately, Madam Guo was relieved. But Yuan Ying, who was a table away, raised his head and glanced at her. Now, he felt that he could not see through this girl more and more. Of course, for a prime minister's daughter to climb up and attach herself to the imperial family and eventually obtain the title of princess, not to mention Dali, probably no one else in the entire world had accomplished such a thing. So he always felt that she was very scheming and needed to be guarded against to avoid doing anything detrimental to the Guo family in the future. But now when he looked at her words and deeds, she is ordinary but very sincere, not like a scheming and sweet-talking woman at all. Maybe, he is too worried...

Yuan Ying lowered his head and stopped looking at Li Wei Yang.

"Yes, the dishes on this table are really what your majesty used to love." Madam Guo said.

"That's right!" Consort Guo didn't say that she specifically ordered four or five more dishes because her relatives were coming.

Li Wei Yang glanced at the dishes on the table and thought in her mind that she heard that Empress Pei liked to be extravagant, while Gracious Consort Guo was very simple. They were two extremes. No wonder they disliked each other.

After lunch, Yuan Ying left. He usually had his own errands, and it was rare to stay for so long. Madam Guo watched him go, and for some reason she looked back at Li Wei Yang with a strange expression on her face.

Li Wei Yang deliberately pretended not to see her eyes, and her face was calm.

At this time, Consort Guo stood up and said, "Let's go for a walk."

It is normal to need to stroll after lunch, but Consort Guo's so-called walk is just to accompany Madam Guo and Li Wei Yang, walking from the east end of the yard to the west end, chatting while walking. Li Wei Yang had gone for a walk in the Imperial Garden in the Dali Palace and it can be seen that many rules in the two countries are different. If Madam Guo hadn't instructed her in advance, Li Wei Yang might really be unsure of what to do.

The two noble ladies were walking in the yard, but Li Wei Yang stood on the steps, looking at the red walls and blue and white stone bases on both sides, thinking to herself, Gracious Consort Guo grew up in such a friendly family as the Guo family, but she had to throw herself into a hell that eats people without spitting out bones. She has to spend the rest of her life in such a deep palace... I really don't know how she survived. Li Wei Yang had already tasted this kind of experience in her previous life, and she hates this endless waiting, so she doesn't want to go through it again. Yuan Ying was indeed a good marriage candidate, but it was a pity that he was from an imperial family and would have a lot of troubles in the future, so she was unwilling to take another risk. Therefore, she had to pretend that she didn't notice Madam Guo's expectations.

At this time, Gracious Consort Guo looked back at her and suddenly said: "Jia'er is really bored staying with us. Let the palace troupe perform a show and let's have some fun."

Consort Guo had good intentions, and Li Wei Yang couldn't refuse, so the troupe quickly set up in the Gracious Consort's yard. They were all singing some happy ending dramas, which in fact were all boring, but one also has to pay attention to one's mood when watching a drama. Consort Guo had a cheerful temperament and got along well with her sister-in-law, so the atmosphere was very harmonious.

At this moment, Grand Prince Xu Yuan Lie had entered the palace. 

Of course, he cannot go to see Li Wei Yang blatantly. Officially, he entered the palace to play chess with the Emperor. The old eunuch Zhang Zhong led the way for him while secretly sizing up the newly appointed Prince Xu. Speaking of which, the previous Grand Prince Xu was indeed deeply loyal to His Majesty and has never offended the Imperial Will. At least, before the currentEmperor ascended the throne, there were people who thought about supporting Grand Prince Xu to become Emperor. However, he never had that intention and instead devoted himself to assisting the current Emperor. Compared to the arrogant Commander Pei, it was countless times better. Therefore, whether in the court or in the palace, he had to be respected.

However, everyone thought that the empire's more covetted title would be inherited by the eldest son of Grand Prince Xu, but suddenly such an illegitimate son appeared. Eunuch Zhang glanced at Yuan Lie secretly and saw those amber pupils, which were very dazzling.

Yuan Lie glanced around and saw Eunuch Zhang's stunned eyes, and asked: "What is Eunuch Zhang looking at?"

Eunuch Zhang spoke cautiously: "Your Highness is very imposing and has the demeanor of the old prince. He is really better than his predecessors. I can't help but feel happy for him when I look at you..."

Even if you are the world's best liar, no one will believe this. The corner of Yuan Lie's mouth raised slightly, with a hint of warmth: "Oh? Really?"

Eunuch Zhang was murmuring in his heart. He always felt that Yuan Lie's appearance was very similar to a certain person. Who was it? A vague shadow flashed across his mind, and his heart suddenly skipped a beat, and he glanced at Yuan Lie subconsciously. No, absolutely impossible!

"Eunuch Zhang must be an old confidante next to His Majesty. I heard that he served Princess Qixia back then." Yuan Lie said casually.

Eunuch Zhang's eyelids twitched. He glanced about and saw that there was no one around. He breathed a sigh of relief and said quickly: "Your Highness, I know that you are a person favored  by His Majesty, but there are some things in this palace that are taboo." No matter if it was because of the Emperor or the Empress, no one was allowed to mention that person, but Yuan Lie actually spoke of her without any scruples.

Get up to 30 advanced chapter parts on Patreon

[bleuhisteria]

Chapter 3 Love, was it all in Vain?

An all too familiar scythe ahoge rested on (Y/N)'s head, Kalego stared, frozen in shock.

"I should really stop using invisibility like this." (Y/N) sighed, looking to Kalego to help her up, her gaze met his and tilted her head, "Aren't you going to help me up?" she asks.

Kalego scoffed and looked away, he stretched his hand out to her, (Y/N) took his hand and stood up, not noticing the slight tinge of red on the demon's ears, she turns and picks her witch hat off the ground and puts it on before turning back to Kalego.

She crosses her arms and shakes her head before sighing, "As I was saying, I'm here because I'm conducting research on a cursed item, a certain clue led me back to Babyls and I had no choice if I wanted to obtain that information." (Y/N) explains in a bored tone, an unamused look on her face as she twirled a piece of her hair.

"A cursed item?" Kalego whipped his head around, his brows furrowed with curiosity.

(Y/N) began to walk, "Yeah." she replied as she carried on walking without caring to elaborate any further, "I'm off to the library if you need me." she says, waving her hand with her back turned to him as she continued to walk off before disappearing into thin air.

Kalego allowed himself to be left behind, though he was flustered earlier seeing what was underneath the cloak for a brief moment, his mind was plagued with curiosity, not only because of the so called cursed item that she was researching about that forced her hand and brought her back to Babyls. But also because of the scythe on her head, which made him wonder if she had any ties with a particular troublemaker known throughout the school, and if so, what was their relationship?

From his knowledge though, cursed items also known as dark magic tools, have all been disposed of by the former demon king Delkira, to be wanting to do research on such a thing other than morbid curiosity would mean being in possession of one, Kalego deeply hoped that it was the first one.

Before long, he had pushed the thought to the back of his mind and headed to where he was originally planning on going.

__

(Y/N) pressed her back against the side of a bookshelf in the library, looking down on the ground with a downcast expression as she sighed, 'I can't tell him...' her joints crackled as she balled up her fists.

How would he react knowing she was cursed, moreover, the consequences of said curse?

'Knowing him, with just what I said earlier he's probably already figured it out.'

From the corner of her eye, a book surrounded by a purple aura caught her attention, she looks over and pulls it out of the bookshelf.

'Origins and Creation Of Cursed Items By Delkira'

after picking out a two more books, one about magic history and the other about magic beasts, she headed over to the counter and handed in the three books for her to borrow.

"Just these two?" The librarian asks.

'Two? She can't see the other one? It must be pretty high detection warding magic if it's like this.' (Y/N) thought.

"Yes." She replied casually with a smile.

She then headed to the teachers lounge to reconvene with Dali.

"Ah, (Y/N)-sensei, back from the library I see, browse any good books?" Dali asks as soon as he saw her enter, he noticed a few teachers' heads turn indicating that they can see her as well.

'She turned off her invisibility?' He wondered.

(Y/N) nods in response as she walked over to her desk and placed the books down, conveniently, her desk was right next to Kalego's, a little off putting for the time but nothing to dread.

Dali hovers over, observing the books she had taken, 'Magic history, magical beasts, and...oh~?'

"(Y/N)-sensei, is there a reason why you borrowed this?" Dali asks, picking up the book labeled, 'Origins and Creation of Cursed Magic Items'

'He can see it?' She wondered.

She looks over and shrugs, "I thought it looked kind of interesting." she states.

He gave a smile, "I have some books at mine if you want me to bring them, it's mostly copies anecdotes from when and why Delkira-sama destroyed those items and some notes of their effects." he spoke with a finger raised.

(Y/N)'s eyes sparkled as she turned to him, immediately grabbing his hand, "Please." she says with starry eyes.

Dali's usually calm and casual expression almost became flustered, a wobbly smile plastered on his face as he tried to hold back the blood rushing to his cheeks, "O-of course, I'll bring them tomorrow, right away." he says, pulling his hand away.

'What's up with me?' He wondered, pulling his collar, feeling some sort of heat in the room.

"Anyway, I'm off, come find me if you need anything." Dali states before briskly walking out of the room, leaving (Y/N) to wonder what was going on with him.

She sat in her desk and began to read one of the books, but before she could get started, a certain pair of eyes were glued on her, their face suddenly popping up beside her and interrupting her reading.

"So you're the new temporary teacher Dali-sensei's been talking to, (Y/N)-chan was it~?" A purple haired succubus asks, (Y/N) turns to meet her properly, silently nodding in response.

"My~ How adorable, you seem to have that cold charm that can warm any man's heart when you smile fufu~ I've never seen Dali-san so flustered before~" The succubus says, forming a heart with her fingers, framing (Y/N) in the middle.

"Oh that's right, I forgot to introduce myself, you can call me Raim, I teach the seduction class." She says with a wink.

(Y/N)'s brows raised ever so slightly, "Nice to meet you Raim-sensei, I'll be in your care." she says monotonously, acknowledging her presence at least.

Raim places a hand over her lips as she smiled, "Likewise (Y/N)-chan~" she says, holding out her hand.

The two shake hands before Raim went out of the lounge.

(Y/N) opens her book once more, but before she could even begin reading, a cough was heard from beside her.

A woman with light blue hair, holding her hands to her back called out to her, "(Y/N)-sensei, my name is Morax Momonoki, please take this as a welcoming gift." she states, looking away while handing over what seemed to be a very thick book.

'This was the book Kalego-san gave me when I first got here, Guidelines for teachers of Babyls, though I'd like to keep it, a new teacher like (Y/N)-san could use it more than me.' A blush spread across her cheeks as she woefully thought of parting with something Kalego handed her himself.

(Y/N) took the book in her hands, "Thank you, I'll be in your care." she says, trying to pull the book off Momonoki's hands but it would seem that her grip was a little tight.

"Um..." (Y/N) called, seeing as though she was a little lost in thought.

Momonoki flinched and let go of the book, "A-ah! Apologies, I'll leave you be." she states before heading back to her desk.

A question mark popped up beside (Y/N)'s head before she turns her attention to the book, she read through it until the dismissal bell rang, she gathers her things and leaves the school and headed home.

_

_

_

"Welcome home, (Y/N)-sama." Opera bowed and took the books off (Y/N)'s hands.

(Y/N) had a weary complexion, her hair haggard as she took her hat off and hung it on a coat rack, "I'm going to take a bath." she says to the demon before heading to her room.

"I'll prepare it right away." They replied as (Y/N) walked off.

Sullivan comes out from the corner, running up to (Y/N), "(Y/N)-chan~!!! How was your first day? Did you have fun? Was anyone mean to you?" he asks worriedly.

(Y/N) face palmed, "I'm not a teenager anymore dad." she stated in an annoyed tone, however Sullivan's sad expression had her respond more appropriately, "Ugh...I had fun." she says, much to Sullivan's delight.

After a quick conversation, she went into her room and prepared her pajamas, she sat on the chair in her desk and began to read some of the books she brought home with her while waiting for Opera to call her for her bath.

Origins and Creation Of Cursed Magic Items...

The first magic item ever found to be created was from a family that was able to create magic stones that absorb a demon's unique magic, the first cursed magic item originated from the same family when they found out that their magic stones can also be affected by a demon's emotions, the first curse ever created through a magic item was the curse of obsession that came from a consumable magic stone used for healing.

The curse of obsession was found to be generational and could only be broken by dedicating one's life to something, this curse as of today is still in effect in the clan of Dir--

"(Y/N)-sama, your bath is ready." A knock came at (Y/N)'s door.

She put the book down and stood up, "I'll be there in a minute." she called out, grabbing her clothes before heading to the bathroom.

Afterwards, (Y/N) heads to the dinner table where Iruma and Sullivan sat waiting for her, Iruma's hair was tied back as he ate, as if he were training for something.

"(Y/N)-chan! Iruma-kun is preparing to battle in an execution ball cannon tournament in his class, you should watch and cheer for him!" Sullivan states excitedly, suddenly shoving a camera in (Y/N)'s hands.

(Y/N) tilted her head, holding the camera in her hands.

"And while you're there, take a video and show us when you get home! We'll watch it on tv cheer while having snacks!"

Iruma choked on his food, "P-please don't record!" he said bashfully, embarrassed at the thought.

(Y/N) laughs as Opera handed Iruma a glass of water, "I'll make sure you won't notice." she stated jokingly.

"(Y/N)-san!" Iruma whined making (Y/N) laugh even more.

__

Much later into the night, Iruma was tucked into bed, Sullivan was gone, and who knows where Opera was, (Y/N) was sleepless and made her way to the living room, reading next to a fireplace.

Soft footsteps were heard moving towards her, "(Y/N)-san?" Iruma called out softly, his eyes tired and in his arms was a pillow.

(Y/N) hummed, turning her head to his direction, "Yes, do you need something Iruma?" she asks.

"I couldn't sleep..." He hugged his pillow tighter.

She closed her book and placed it on the table next to the chair before moving to the couch, patting the cushion right next to her, inviting Iruma to sit down, he walks over and sat down next to her.

"I'm nervous about tomorrow..." He mumbles anxiously.

(Y/N) grabs him gently by the shoulders and pushed him down to lay his head on her lap, she did this all without a word.

"(Y-Y/N)-san?" Iruma called nervously.

She sighs, "You'll do well, I believe in you." she says, giving him a soft smile while patting his head.

Iruma looks away blushing, "(Y/N)-san...why can't I call you mom?" he asks.

(Y/N) looks away, her gaze on the fire burning in fireplace, "Do you want to call me mom...?" she questions.

Iruma was quiet for a while before he finally spoke up, "It's...I-I do..." he mumbled.

"I'm not very reliable." she chuckles,"You're going to have to tell me what a mom does, are you alright with that?" (Y/N) asks as she continued to pat his head.

Iruma's eyes sparkled at the thought, "Yes." he smiled.

"Then, what does a mom do in this kind of situation?" She asks.

Fidgeting with his thumbs, Iruma stutters, "I heard from Azz-kun that, his mom used to sing him to sleep..." he says shyly.

(Y/N) nods, "If that's what you want." she looked up, thinking of what to sing, a gentle lullaby came to mind. "I'm going to cast magic if that's alright with you." she states.

Iruma hums and nods in agreement.

A sweet melody came out of (Y/N)'s lips as she casted magic on Iruma to help him sleep, he felt drowsier and his eyes began to fall almost instantly at the song, almost as if it enveloped the room they were in, the color of the fire in the fireplace once red and orange now turned purple.

'This song...so sweet...' Iruma thought just as he drifted off to sleep.

A few minutes later, footsteps were heard entering the room, "Opera." (Y/N) called, not turning around to the demon standing behind the couch.

"I'm guessing you've been there this whole time?" She asks.

Opera nods, "Congratulations on being a mother, (Y/N)-sama." they replied.

(Y/N) sighs in contentment, "I don't know what he sees in me."

"Perhaps it's because his real mother never did anything for him, you'd make a great mother to Iruma-sama, (Y/N)."

Her eyes softened hearing her named without honorifics, "I hope so too, though some part of me is afraid he might be putting too much trust in a flaker like me."

"I hope you learn to let go of that insecurity, I'll take Iruma-sama back to his room."

"Please do."

Opera picks up Iruma, leaving to go to his room to tuck him back into bed, leaving (Y/N) alone in the living room to be left with her thoughts.

'Did...my mom ever sing to me?' she began to wonder.

Chapter 3 End.

[conflitdecanard]

More characters I got - I had started it months ago and... just now finished it ! Bedelia ( left ) and Dali ( right ) ! They're both from a closed species ? Auracorn ? I'm not part of the community but It's important to say ? (^▽ ^;; )ゞ

[relatosanonimato]

Plateia.

Subiu o palhaço no palco do teatro, as 20 horas da noite num sábado. Na plateia só imbecis, casais, solitários, jovens, e alguns velhos. Sobretudo pessoas sem dinheiro para ir para qualquer outro lugar. A face do palhaço tinha maquiagem grosseria, feita as pressas e mal acabada, ele parecia nervoso na medida em que não parava de bater o calcanhar contra chão. Usava um terno em vermelho fraco, quase morto, e tinha cabelo curto. Nada carismático além de ser magricelo.

-Senhoras e senhores, eu sou o rei. Disse o palhaço, com dificuldade para encontrar a intonação certa.

-O rei da comédia. Continuou, com a voz monótona, levantando os dois braços como se anunciasse uma comemoração, que não existia, e então um sorriso tímido floresce em sua face.

Não entendiam nada, os telespectadores, que já se entreolhavam e franziam a sobrancelha. E então uma senhorinha entra em cena, diabética e com hipertensão a anos, já corcunda e da face caída, lutava contra câncer, seus olhos mal podiam enxergam através das lentes dos óculos velhos e gastos. Sobrevivia, a velha, da aposentadoria que acumulou a vida toda enquanto trabalhava como costureira no sul do país. Ela entrava em cena com uma cadeira nas mãos, com tamanha dificuldade para conseguir andar devido ao peso, e vez ou outra fazia uma pausa para rearranjar forças, até que por fim conseguiu colocar a cadeira sob o centro do palco. Quando ia saindo, apoiando as mãos no joelho e suspirando fundo, o palhaço dali mesmo retira suas mãos dos bolsos internos do terno e revela um calibre .38 de cano curto, prateado, de ação simples e alma raiada, pregando uma bala - ogiva comum - contra as costas da velha, que no mesmo instante caiu no chão abrindo as asas de sangue que saiam do ferimento.

O estrondo da explosão do revolver gerou certa reação intensa na plateia. Alguns gritaram de susto e outros levantaram um sorriso - finalmente alguma coisa, poderiam ter pensado - O palhaço então assume a cadeira que a velha lhe havia trazido e senta, ainda batendo o calcanhar no chão repetidas vezes e segurando a arma, acende um cigarro marlboro e começa a tragar desesperadamente, tremelicava as mãos e não conseguia olhar para algum ponto fixo por mais de 5 segundos. Sem conseguir vocalizar muito bem as palavras, o palhaço, com muita dificuldade, anuncia

-Fim.

A plateia cai em gargalhada. Uns se levantavam para aplaudir de pé, outros sem conseguir se levantar devido a contração do estômago pelos risos permanecem sentados, e outros ainda rolavam o teatro. Alguns produtores da peça invadiam o palco, celebrando o término e com champanhe barato nas mãos, algumas dançarinas entravam em ritmo de festa no palco também, vestidas extravagantemente coloridas, com as pernas pálidas, raspadas e enormes sorrisos branco no rosto. Uma música muito animada com direito a piano, trompete e baixo começava a tocar, todos pareciam felizes e animados, o champanhe era estourado, a espuma branca cobria o palco.

Ainda na cadeira permanecia o palhaço. Envolvido sob o olhar frio de aura mórbida, o cigarro já pelo fim e os pés ainda batucando o chão. Ali, sentado, em sua face começava a emitir um riso, pouco a pouco, embora o palhaço tentasse colocar a mão na boca para não rir, as vezes até batendo, sem querer, a arma nos dentes. Não funcionava, o riso ia saindo, ele se contraia, se jogava no chão e se batia, o riso que parecia lhe causar alguma dor simplesmente continuava saindo.

Algum idiota então se aproxima da velhota pela chão, que cheirava a casa de velho - Não é nenhum perfume, nenhum modo de dizer, mas casa de velho tem um cheiro indistinguível - colocando uma taça de champanhe quente próximo as suas mãos e dizendo

-Parabéns, a atuação foi boa. Pareceu que realmente havia levado um tiro contra as costas. Embora em tão distante idade, conseguiu se jogar no chão de maneira muito natural. Parabéns, parabéns.

A velha não se mexia e estava empalidecida, sua boca espumava saliva e seus olhos estavam inteiramente brancos.

Fim.

[calsnaps]

Napstale - Versão escrita

O Humano estava vindo cada vez mais perto do castelo, resolvendo os problemas de todos, era uma AU pacifista, mas cuidar do humano dava trabalho, e lá estava ele, Sans, descansando no Bar do Grillbys, ele suspira, porém seu sossego é quebrando quando Grillbys faz um sinal para ele apontando em uma direção com a cabeça, Sans arqueia a "sobrancelha" e olha para o lado, dando um leve pulo de susto, entre algumas pessoas bebendo e comemorando sabe-se lá o que, estava constantemente rindo, Napstablook, o fantasma mais depressivo de todo o Subsolo, aquilo era estranho, para não dizer bizarro.

Sans suspira e vai até aonde tinha visto o fantasma, tentando entender o que estava acontecendo, se Grillbys estava preocupado, quem era ele para deixar aquilo de lado? Apesar de acreditar que aquilo era bom, alguém como o fantasma merecia um dia bom ou outro, em sua concepção.

Sans começa a conversar com alguns monstros ali, aos poucos começando a perguntar sobre o fantasma ou falar com ele próprio, querendo uma aproximação que parecesse espontânea, assim, percebe que Napstablook está agindo mais estranhamente que o normal, e de uma forma completamente oposta da qual ele é estranho normalmente, mas ao que descobriu, parecia ser apenas um dia importante para ele comemorar.

Papo vai, conversa vem, Sans se convidou para ir com Napstablook até a casa dele, quando o outro, querendo ter certeza que tudo estava bem mesmo, mesmo quando o outro decidiu ir embora, e Napstablook deixou, logo, eles lá estavam, na frente da casa do mesmo, que convida Sans para entrar, sem esperar que ele fosse aceitar, porém Sans entra, afinal, ainda era uma boa desculpa para fugir de seus afazeres. Eles conversam um pouco, Sans descobre que Napstablook andava conversando com um Monstro diferente de alguns tempos para cá, alguém que se dizia amigo dele, mas esse "alguém" não era humano, nem se quer era dali do Subsolo, Sans estava ficando cada vez mais preocupado, enquanto Napstablook disse que ganhou um presente, uma comida de fantasma vinda de longe, de seu novo amigo.

Sans suspirou e com sua cara de pau, perguntou se podia experimentar, mesmo que sua intenção fosse puramente saber se aquilo era seguro para o outro, Napstablook ficou mais feliz por isso, ter algo em comum com ele ou compartilhar comida fazia deles amigos, certo?

E lá foi Sans, que se surpreendeu a conseguir comer aquela comida fantasma, mas com apenas uma mordida, se sentiu estranho e derrubou a comida no chão, ele se afastou um pouco e se sentou no chão olhando aquilo, depois se virou para Napstablook que de repente começou a chorar.

"Sinto muito… Eu não tinha escolha… E talvez ele tenha razão" Napstablook

E então, ele se viu sozinho, Napstablook não estava mais ali de um momento para outro, ele viu tudo a sua volta girar, mas não era tolo, ele se levantou cambaleando e saiu dali do jeito que pode. Quando finalmente viu Papyrus, que ia o cumprimentar animadamente, mas viu seu estado e ficou preocupado, Papyrus estava na companhia do humano, que também estranhou como o esqueleto estava, cambaleante, olhar esquisito e uma aura diferente o cercava, ele estava com cara de doente, mas Frisk sentiu algo mais, fora de que não se lembrava dessa parte da história da ultima vez, Sans se aliviou e quando Papyrus correu para perto para segura-lo, ele não se importou em cair, esperando sentir o conforto dos ossos de seu irmão o segurar, porém, o conforto não veio, ele sentiu se cair em um vácuo mudo, no chão, ver Papyrus ao seu lado desesperado e gritando seu nome.

Ao acordar, Sans se vê no mesmo lugar que desmaiou, Frisk, Papyrus, Undyne e estranhamente até Toriel estavam lá. Ele acorda e se senta, Toriel abraçava Papyrus que chorava, (Na verdade, Papyrus abraçou Toriel depois de Undyne o impedir de abraça-la), Undyne olhava fixamente para um ponto no nada, se perguntava se ficava preocupada com Sans, com raiva de quem fez aquilo com ele, ou se sentia raiva de Papyrus, por ser tão escandaloso; e Frisk foi o primeiro a ver que Sans acordou, puxou de leve a roupa de Toriel e ela olhou para Frisk, logo antes de olhar para Sans e sorriu forçado.

"Olhe-o, ele acordou…" Toriel

Papyrus para de chorar e se vira para o mesmo, de um instante a outro ele corre ao lado dele e se senta no chão, afundando seus joelhos na neve.

"Irmão!!!" Papyrus

"Ei, relaxa… só comi algo estragado, eu acho… " Sans

Sans sorri e Papyrus faz uma expressão seria, aquilo deixou Sans levemente surpreso.

"Eu vim logo quando vi que você demorou demais para aparecer, fiquei preocupada com o que podia ter acontecido… O que deixou você assim?" Toriel

Sans olhou Toriel com certa duvida, mas reconheceria sua voz em qualquer lugar, ele quis perguntar mais dela, porém, decidiu deixar para algum momento depois.

"Já disse que estou bem, eu estou melhor, foi só um desmaio, relaxem" Sans

"Não, ela quis dizer… Assim" Papyrus

Papyrus apontava para Sans, que se olhou e nada viu de estranho, então voltou a olhar Papyrus.

"Assim?" Sans

Papyrus levanta sua mão e vai em direção ao rosto de Sans, que fecha os olhos esperando um tapa, mas ao não sentir nada, abre os olhos e Papyrus já não estava mais com a mão levantada.

"Ei! Não finja que vai me bater do nada!" Sans

"Sans… Ele tentou bater em você, de verdade" Frisk

"Que… ?" Sans

Undyne furiosa se levanta pega sua lança, atira contra o peito de Sans, ele se assusta, mas não consegue desviar, vendo a lança o atravessar no meio, ele faz uma careta e tenta tocar na lança, porém, nada acontece… Ele tinha a atravessado, como se fosse um… fantasma?.

"Isso…." Sans

"As coisas te atravessam! Sem explicação alguma!" Undyne

"Eu… Não sei como isso aconteceu…" Sans

"Aham, mentiroso, fala log-" Undyne

Undyne não termina de falar, após Frisk levantar a própria mão como se conseguisse impedir Undyne apenas com isso, Undyne cruza os braços e bufa.

"Você disse que comeu algo estragado…. O que?" Frisk

"Foi… Oh…. " Sans

Sans olha para baixo e encara as próprias mãos.

"Napstablook estava estranho hoje, Grillbys ficou preocupado, ele queria que eu descobrisse o porquê, eu fui atrás de descobrir e…. Bem…. Ele disse que conheceu alguém que lhe deu um presente, um tipo de comida de outro lugar…." Sans

"E VOCÊ COMEU?" Undyne

". . . Eu precisa saber se a comida era tão SANSacional quanto ele disse que era" Sans

Ao dizer isso Sans força um sorriso fraco e aponta os dedos para Papyrus que tinha de repente, um olhar estranho, como se ele fosse um outro "alguém".

"Chega de suas piadas sem graça, Sans… Você fez merda por si só… Não é mais da nossa conta… Vamos Frisk" Papyrus

Papyrus se vira e começa a sair, Frisk olha primeiro para Papyrus, depois para Sans, então segue Papyrus sem dizer mais nada, Sans encara eles indo embora, confuso, Toriel olha para Sans e suspira.

"Sinto muito… Mas também tenho que ir…" Toriel

Sans apenas a olha com um pequeno desespero crescente no peito.

"Eu também…. Alphys está me esperando…" Undyne

Sans deixa de olhar Toriel para agora olhar Undyne, que está com sua expressão raivosa, e logo as duas saem dali e ele continua sentado ali, ele não estava entendendo a forma de agir repentinamente grosseira deles, não tinha uma explicação, ele não sabia dizer se fez ou não algo de errado, era tão ruim assim o que ele fez?

"O que eu devia ter feito então?" Sans

O tempo passou, Sans tentava falar com Papyrus e os outros, mas era ignorado por eles, a não ser por Frisk, que era o único que continuava agindo normalmente, Sans foi até mesmo atrás de Alphys, que fechou as portas na cara dele e o mesmo esquecia que podia as atravessar, aquilo tudo estava muito estranho, quase ninguém mais pareciam eles mesmos, aquela forma de agir sincronizada, suas personalidades sumindo em pequenos gestos e isso era desesperador.

Em um determinado dia, Papyrus estava entretido fazendo um jogo para tentar vencer Frisk, que era ridiculamente fácil, Sans chegou ao seu lado e o rosto de seu irmão 'endureceu'

"Papys…. O que você tá fazendo? Parece… Estar divertido" Sans

A voz de Sans era levemente baixa e cuidadosa.

"Estava" Papyrus

Papyrus se levanta, pega suas coisas e começa a sair em passos apressados, Sans parecia ser tóxico, de tantas vezes que Papyrus saia o mais rápido possível de perto.

"E-espera! Papys…. A Alphys pode resolver isso, olha… Eu posso voltar ao normal!" Sans

Ele tinha entendido que na situação atual, se concertar, como se ele mesmo fosse um objeto, era o único caminho para ter seu irmão de volta.

"Pode?" Papyrus

Papyrus se vira e o olha com um olhar de reprovação, como se tivesse acabado de ouvir a coisa mais nojenta e repugnante de sua vida.

"P-pode… E se não der, a gente dá outro jeito" Sans

Papyrus deu de ombros e saiu dali, deixando Sans para trás, o ignorando, como se já não valesse mais a pena, Sans queria entender o porquê de todos estarem agindo assim, afinal, era tão ruim ele ser um fantasma agora?

Em uma quebra de tempo, Sans estava no laboratório de Alphys, conversando com a mesma, que desistiu de ignora-lo ao ver o mesmo xeretando em suas coisas, Sans graças a ajuda da mesma, aprendeu algumas coisas novas sobre esse seu estado, nesse momento, ele estava flutuando atrás dela, de costas viradas para baixo e braços cruzados atrás da cabeça.

"Hum…. Depois daquele último teste, percebi que é mais complicado do que imaginei, você quase não parece vivo…. Q-qu-quero dizer…. Você está… Eu acho…. " Alphys

Alphys começa a assobiar como se tentasse disfarçar, Sans apenas suspira.

"Hum… Claro" Sans

O tempo voltou a correr, Sans cada vez mais lembrava o próprio Napstablook, tinha seu jeito preguiçoso e piadista de sempre, mas cada vez mais, lembrava um verdadeiro Fantasma depressivo, com suas piadas começando a desaparecer, não por completo, mas as que não morreram não tinham graça nem para ele mesmo, talvez conviver apenas com um robô e uma cientista tímida estivesse o fazendo mal, claro, fora suas fugas de Undyne quando ela o via ali e começava a falar que chamaria Papyrus para resolver, a verdade é que de Papyrus não o queria por perto ele ficaria longe também, se fazia tão mal a seu irmão, não se importava em ficar longe para que o mesmo ficasse mais feliz.

"Bem, você tem algumas mudanças apenas, mas você sempre foi um morto vivo, então não entendo o porquê do escarcéu" Metatton

"Claro, a diferença é que eu não posso apodrecer de baixo da terra do jeito que eu estou, é que meus ossos não são mais Bones pra isso" Sans

"Não entendi" Metatton

"Sans, Pare de tentar fazer piadas, Metatron não entende" Alphys

Alphys estava concentrada em uma máquina grande, na qual serviria para tentar "concertar" Sans.

"Ah, isso era para ser uma piada? Uma pena, pois nada é tão gracioso quanto eu" Metatton

"Acho que você se confundiu nos sentidos de 'Graça', Cara" Sans

Vai e vem tempo, nada mudou até o seguinte momento, quando Frisk ao chegar na sala de julgamento, se depara com os olhos de Sans completamente negros, ela se sente desconfortável, ao mesmo tempo que ele parecia a encarar, não parecia, ela chega mais perto e ouve a voz do mesmo em um tom sombrio no qual nunca esperou o comediante falar.

"Você vai enfrentar o Asgore depois daqui… Se houver uma forma de nos salvar eu sei que você vai… Eu sei que você vai abrir a passagem lá pra fora…. Mas quero te pedir algo… Quando forem embora, não olhem pra trás, dá mesma forma que você decidiu seguir em frente daqui… Eu também fiz a minha escolha" Sans

Mesmo que sem se alegrar com a partida deles, ele os assistiu de longe… Ele não conseguia ficar feliz, aquilo não só significava que eles seriam livres, mas que cada vez mais não precisariam dele, ficar sozinho era doloroso, ele se sentia vazio por dentro, como se nada de feliz jamais fosse existir de novo para ele.

Com o mundo a fora para desbravar, agora, nem sequer Alphys ou Metatton se importariam com ele, e os humanos não eram uma opção muito agradável, o que fez com que Sans decidisse ficar, desistiu de ir com eles, desistiu de tentar, ele se sentou, olhou para o teto do subsolo e ali ele ficou.

Ele ficou tanto tempo parado, se sentindo consumir pelas próprias lamurias e escuridão que viu estranhos pontos brilhantes surgirem a sua volta, viu galáxias e planetas surgirem numa leveza e delicadeza que pareciam sentir a dor dele e sentir pena… O que era aquilo?

Sans ficou de pé e de repente tudo sumiu, então, voltou a se sentar no chão e ficou parado. Com o passar do tempo, um conforto se encheu dentro dele e novamente começou a se ver cercado de uma miragem de constelações, cada vez se aproximando mais, até que ele amou aquilo e então foi consumido por aquilo e se viu em outro lugar… Ele finalmente voltou a se mexer e se viu em um lugar estranho, era um lugar gigante e cheio de papéis flutuantes, quando percebe que estava saindo de um deles, que lugar era aquele?

É assim que Naps!Sans foi parar na rascunhosfera e começou a desbravar o mundo das AUs, procurando um sentido para si e indo atrás do misterioso "homem" do presente para fantasmas e tentando compreender o ódio desse "alguém" por todos os Sans'es.

Seu poder de portais funciona da seguinte maneira, Napstablook, por mais depressivo que seja, sempre quer estar aonde está, sendo quem ele é aonde ele está, já, Naps!Sans, tendo também esse poder, perdeu tudo que ele podia chamar de casa, ele queria estar em qualquer lugar que não fosse ali, por isso, pode ir aonde quiser.

Estou desenvolvendo a Comic ainda, porém, para qualquer curioso que queira saber a história, aqui está

Texto feito por mim e também corrigido por Markin, do projeto KidVirustale

[the-storm-of-ruin]

Welcome to Demon School AU

Name: Leila Varúlfur

Species: Werewolf Demon

Gender: Female

Age: 35 ((looks like (kinda. Gotta love Demons, right?))

Relatives: Leila comes from a long line of powerful werewolf demons, and her family has a rich history of warriors and protectors. Her parents, Aiden and Selene Varúlfur, were renowned warriors who fought valiantly in countless battles. Leila's older brother, Rylan Varúlfur, is also a skilled combatant and serves as a high-ranking officer in the Demon Border Control. Leila greatly respects and admires her family's legacy, and their support and guidance have played a significant role in shaping her into the formidable warrior she is today.

Romantic Interest: Dantalion Dali

Rival: (Also) Dantalion Dali

"Best Friends": Seiji, Stolas Suzy, Raim, Morax Momonoki, Naberius Kalego and Shichiro Balam

Likes:

1. Training and honing her combat skills.

2. Exploring the mysteries of the Void and expanding her knowledge of its powers.

3. Reading ancient texts and studying the history of her Bloodline.

4. Engaging in intense battles that push her limits.

5. Spending time with her familiar, Zale, and bonding with him.

Dislikes:

1. Laziness and lack of dedication.

2. Injustice and the mistreatment of others.

3. Arrogance and disrespect.

4. Being underestimated or undermined.

5. Interference in her training schedule and plans.

Background:

Leila Varúlfur is a werewolf demon who serves as the Combat instructor at the prestigious Demon School Babyls. Born into a powerful and ancient bloodline, Leila possesses a unique set of skills and abilities that make her a formidable force to be reckoned with. She hails from a lineage that is deeply connected to the forces of darkness and shadows, granting her the ability to harness their power.

Appearance:

Leila has long, flowing black hair that cascades down her back, accentuating her fierce and untamed nature. Her striking purple eyes, which have the fascinating ability to turn silver, add an air of mystery to her persona. She carries herself with confidence and grace, always exuding an aura of strength and determination.

Personality:

Leila is known for her unwavering dedication and passion for combat. She possesses a strong sense of justice and believes in the importance of honing one's skills to protect oneself and others. While she may appear intimidating at first glance, she is incredibly patient and understanding, always willing to guide her students through their journey of self-improvement. Leila is a natural leader, inspiring those around her with her relentless drive and unwavering loyalty.

Bloodline Magic - Heart of the Void:

Leila's bloodline magic, known as the "Heart of the Void," allows her to manipulate shadows and darkness with ease. She can shape shadows into various forms, creating deadly weapons that aid her in battle. Additionally, she possesses the power of teleportation, using darkness to move herself, others, and objects instantaneously from one place to another. This unique ability gives her a significant advantage in combat, allowing her to strike from unexpected angles and disappear into the shadows when needed.

Familiar - Seiji:

Leila's loyal and trusted familiar is a purple-colored Feathered Serpent named Seiji. Seiji possesses incredible intelligence and agility, making him an invaluable companion in Leila's endeavors. With his keen senses and ability to fly, Seiji serves as an excellent scout and messenger, keeping Leila informed of any potential threats or opportunities. The bond between Leila and Seiji is unbreakable, their connection forged through years of shared experiences and mutual trust.

Overall, Leila Varúlfur embodies strength, resilience, and a deep-rooted desire to protect those around her. Her unique combination of werewolf and demon heritage, coupled with her mastery over shadows and darkness, makes her a force to be reckoned with in the world of demons.

Name: Seiji

Species: Feathered Serpent

Gender: Male

Color: Purple

Personality:

Seiji is a loyal and protective familiar, always looking out for his master, Leila Varúlfur. He is intelligent and quick-witted, using his cunning nature to help Leila in her combat training. Seiji is also known for his calm and composed demeanor, rarely losing his cool in stressful situations. He is highly observant and analytical, always assessing the surroundings and strategizing the best course of action. Seiji's charm lies in his playful and mischievous nature, often lightening the mood with his witty remarks and jokes.

Likes:

1. Flying: Seiji enjoys soaring through the skies, relishing the freedom and exhilaration it brings.

2. Sunbathing: Basking in the warmth of the sun's rays is a favorite pastime of Seiji's, especially on lazy afternoons.

3. Learning: Seiji has a thirst for knowledge and is always eager to learn new things, whether it's about history, magic, or combat techniques.

4. Challenges: Seiji thrives on challenges and loves pushing his limits, whether it's during training sessions or facing formidable opponents.

5. Pranks: Seiji has a mischievous side and finds great delight in playing harmless pranks on others, especially his fellow familiars.

Dislikes:

1. Confinement: Being cooped up in small spaces or restricted areas makes Seiji feel trapped and restless.

2. Unfairness: Seiji has a strong sense of justice and dislikes seeing anyone being treated unfairly or bullied.

3. Boredom: Seiji dislikes monotony and craves excitement and stimulation in his daily life.

4. Arrogance: Seiji has little patience for individuals who display arrogance or believe they are superior to others.

5. Water: Despite being a serpent, Seiji has an aversion to water and prefers to keep his scales dry whenever possible.

Abilities:

1. Flight: Seiji possesses the ability to fly gracefully through the skies, soaring high above with his large feathered wings. This allows him to have a wide range of mobility and reconnaissance, aiding Leila in her combat training.

2. Elemental Manipulation: Seiji has a unique affinity for elemental magic. He can control and manipulate the element of air, creating powerful gusts of wind or summoning gentle breezes. In battle, he can use this ability to assist Leila in her combat techniques, creating powerful gusts to disorient opponents or creating a shield of wind for protection.

3. Enhanced Senses: With his serpent-like eyes and keen sense of smell, Seiji possesses enhanced senses. He can detect even the slightest disturbances in the environment, making him an excellent scout and lookout. This ability helps him keep Leila informed of any potential threats or opportunities.

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closed starter with: @damelottie: ❝ shh. do you hear that ? ❞

era engraçado como hansel e charlotte costumavam se encontrar nos momentos mais aleatórios possíveis, acabar se deparando com a presença da loira no jardim não era o que esperava quando saiu para tomar um ar longe de tantas pessoas. não que fosse ruim já que a aura da lady era agradável e curiosa para si. quem sabe uma amizade nasceria dali? só vivenciando para saber. ❝ ― ouvi o quê? ❞ indagou a mulher enquanto tomava um gole de sua bebida e olhava ao redor procurando sobre o que ela estava falando até perceber que era sobre alguém. ❝ ― tentando ouvir fofoca alheia, charlotte? ❞ perguntou divertido com um sorriso de desenhando em seus lábios, se aproximando para, bom, fazer o mesmo que ela. nem só de caçadas vivia o homem.