#Hanging on the edge of tomorrow/From the works of yesterday | Sonic “Bless” the Hedgehog

[reflections-of-mobius]

WARNING. THIS THREAD FEATURES HEAVY THEMES.

[@familylightfox | From here!]

"...well...that hurt..." Bless groaned, rubbing at his head as he sat up. The destruction from his fall wasn't anywhere near as severe- he'd had the presence of mind to dig his hands into the metallic ground, resulting in a loud, angry screech as metal was abruptly ripped up yard-by-yard. It had awoken several mobians in the currently-sleeping city, and yet not one dared leave their shiny hotels and ironclad homes.

Moonlight and floating streetlamps served as illumination, alongside blaring holographic signs detailing the upcoming World Grand Prix. Bless glanced around, emerald hues searching the carnage for any sign of his supposed attacker... Only to pause as he realized there was a strange glow coming from below. He glanced down, eyebrows furrowing as he noticed a circle of green light- pulsing in time to his heartbeat. It wouldn't be quite so strange if it didn't seem to originate from under his fur.

"Crap..." He breathed in. The male stood, emerald hues flicking about. Most of the street was undamaged- the only sign of destruction were the holes he'd torn into the ground, alongside the massive dent where he'd finally come to a stop... By hitting a building. He didn't recall doing that- he barely recalled the hit of the object itself, before he'd been sent tumbling!

Bless' eyes finally landed on several items scattered nearby- his emergency ring, his phone, and a small bit of birch wood he was going to carve in his free time... Now broken solidly in two. He snatched his phone- just barely dodging a bullet as it fired off.

"Wh-?" He may have been slower in his werehog form, but the mobian was no less swift as emerald hues dilated, snapping upwards. Slick, silver-and-white frames hovered overhead, gunmetal gray barrels leveled in his direction. A strange light in his chest, and now robots that had guns trained on him..

He had an idea what was going on. He had to find Node- he had to warn Volt and Harmony. His world wasn't safe right now.

"Return the Ark of The Cosmos."

"The Ark of the what?" Ark of The Cosmos?... "What's that?" The machines... Merely floated, their engines thrumming.

"Return the Ark of The Cosmos. You have ten seconds to comply."

[]

At least he'd be safe. That was the one thought that kept Node from screaming, even as they'd fallen to the ground, clutching their own arms tight as panic wracked their mind.

"Stop, stop stopstopstop...!" Node's bitten claws dug into their fur. Unlike Bless, they'd had no emergency ring on their person- and they'd taken damage as a result. Their clothes were cut up on their back from crashing through so many trees, bruises littering their arms- but that wasn't what made them afraid.

No, their mind was running entirely on autopilot. Their plea rang through the forest, echoing up the road of destruction their body had cut earlier in the night. They were too deep to think, just trying blearily to focus on their own arms around their body. They had to get up-- they had to find out- what was going on--

Stopstopstopstopstop-

That maelstrom in their head screamed otherwise. Their hands were pressing into their arms, trying to find reality. They were searching for a grounding wire- anything to keep them rooted. They were here. They were alive. Bless had to be alive- he had to be- Volt and Harmony would get him out-

He'sgoingtodiethey'regoingtodie-

[reflections-of-mobius]

Neither mobian was surprised by the first hiccupping sob. Bless had pushed his emotions down, but as Volt's dam began to break, he found it more and more difficult to hold himself together. It was like something in him- a shred keeping him from tears- was coming undone. The fear of the night- but at least he still had Volt and Node, nudging the hybrid's fluff between head and chest with a half-choked purr.

But that purr was the beginning of a very slow end. Bless and Node cuddled and nuzzled Volt in a near-silence, unable to keep their tears at bay as the others- the last few they still felt the need to appear somewhat strong near- disappeared. Bless could still hear the shots firing each time, clutching the other two a little tighter as he tried to push the memory away.

Node was silent, even as they nuzzled the two. The only hint there was something amiss was when they actually sniffled- wiping at their nose for a moment before returning to the pile. They didn't want to let go. But eventually, they'd have to- the scent of Volt's fur and Bless' quills still lingering in their nose for a moment when breakfast had been finished, and the trio were finally made to abandon the couch...Node glanced up, pausing in their walk- pressing a cautious hand to Volt's chest before giving him a split-second squeeze of a hug.

"...if you're sure..." Inari wasn't totally convinced, but he wasn't about to argue with Greta on it. She got Bless to back down- there was no way the two-tailed fox would win if she tried. "...thank you, Greta. Thank you both, really."

What they were going through... Inari wasn't entirely sure, himself. She felt like her mind was in a tailspin- and that barely compared to the now-puffy-eyed mobians that were guided towards the table. He'd seen Bless in a number of states over the years...but this...it was like his first night back, after being rescued from the Death Egg- his touch lingered.

The hedgehog blinked at his food for a few moments- before actually managing to get his fork moving to eat the hearty breakfast. None of them had really eaten since the night before, and they'd all been running ever since...yet Bless ate slow, each move deliberate and thought over. Every now and again, his shoulder seemed to almost purposefully brush against Volt's pelt- a noticeable tenseness momentarily fading each time.

Node was also eating at a reduced pace- but at least everyone was still eating. However, between a few bites, Node seemed to stare at their food- their eyes wavering. They were still burnt from the shock of it all, trying to recuperate in their head.

When the plates were empty of food, gathered, and taken care of... Bless slowly herded his partners towards a room he had come to know well. He was cautious, emerald hues like the last moment before glass cracks- barely holding together. He'd managed to stitch some of himself back together while eating breakfast, but as the trio trudged to Volt's room, he found that final fragment once more wavering.

Node attempted- even if only in part- to drag both their partners to the bed once they were all in the room. They didn't care about the idea of removing any clothes to be less overheated, instead pulling the two mobians downwards. It was a silent plea to just accept it and let them do this, as the moment all three were on the bed, Node was clutching at each as tightly and strongly as their body would allow.

And that was the fox's breaking moment- tears finally beginning to flow free, their mouth opening silently as mismatched hands grasped at their beloveds. They were exhausted beyond measure- and it was more than likely they'd fall asleep the moment they were done, but...

They didn't want to let go.

"....s-tay..." A silent plea- not for the two to remain still, but to not leave. They could still barely believe they'd all survived...a blessing.

Bless pressed his muzzle gently to each partner in turn, even as sleep crept into the edges of his vision.

They'd all survived...

He found his mind repeating that, green orbs sliding between each of the other two. They were all in varying states of relief and pain... All exhausted, all recovering...a night's rest would do them all good... He nuzzled himself into the fray, feeling the fur of the hybrid against one cheek, and the fox's against the other. For now...he'd just try to take this moment, without the memories attached to it...he could deal with the rest....later...

A familiar sign was pressed into fur and quill alike, even as Node's tears began to fade. A single message they couldn't convey in speech as sleep continued to claw at them, and they found themself answering in kind to its summons. Hazel eyes drifted closed, the last sight of Volt and Bless lingering in their mind.

I love you.

The moment he felt the arm returning his affection, it was like the dam had broken. Volt managed to keep his volume to a whisper, but his soft hiccups were hard to miss. How close he had been to losing both of them, but they were there. A bit battered, but safe within his arms. Thankfully the sounds were mostly drowned out by those of Greta getting to work in the kitchen, but Harmony had still picked her head up once her ear flicked.

Her look of concern quickly shifted as she watched the trio cuddle on the couch from where she was leaning against the dining room table. Edgar and Greta had shared a look with one another, followed by exchanging a few words with Augustus and Heidi as they made their way back out into the main lobby of the Inn.

Now was a time for recovery and the fewer people in the small section of home, the easier it would be.

All it had taken was a blink and the tears fell freely down his cheeks as he nuzzled each partner as evenly as he could. His hands were gentle in how they rubbed arms or backs. And they were all left alone to do so until the breakfasts had been finished. The dining room table was set with plates, cups of tea, and plenty of food to tide over all those who had been on the adventure.

Save for Harmony, since she was still working through the caribou meat. The older couple placed everything and helped everyone over to sit. Including Inari when he was done with making the teas.

Each plate had a decent amount on them, filling while not being too much.

"When you are done, go und rest. Edgar und I will look after everything." Greta's smile was soft while her words still remained firm. "For now. You are all to focus on healing. Feeling better." Her golden eyes looked at Inari. "No portals for now. We have room for you here."

"It is for best." Edgar added. "I know thing or two about vhat you are going through. I help vhile ve are here."

They left it at that. The older couple would oversee everything until they were sure that Volt could take over his duties as he had. When his partners weren't in a state in which he'd be worried and distracted. It was what they did for their family. Harmony was more than happy to agree to that and went to put her empty plate in the sink with a yawn, chased from washing it by Edgar so she could get some rest.

Into her room, she went. Sleep sounded amazing right about now and who was the teen to argue on it. The couple had even set up a room for Inari to stay before going home. Allowing everyone to have the time they needed to decompress.

[reflections-of-mobius]

@familylightfox asked:

"No, no! It's not my blood!" Volt to his partners, but we all know it’s his. He just healed already. ;p

[Blood, blood, and some more blood! | Accepting!]

Bless' eyes flickered between the crimson stains on the hybrid's fur, and the splatters of it on the floor. If he had to guess- a fight had taken place in the Inn's main lobby, but he hadn't been around to witness it. No, he'd run back from a jog just in time to come across the bloodied form of his boyfriend, brows crinkling in slight suspicion and concern.

"...are you sure?..."

"Oh thank Chaos." Node had been listening to music while they worked on cleaning the kitchen- and had only heard the last crack of the door slamming shut after everything had gone down. One hand was over their chest, their tail fluffed up as if they'd just stuck it in an electrical socket- but slowly, the fur was beginning to relax back down. "...do you want some help cleaning up?...you look...." Well. Bloody.- But Node wasn't sure if they should say it aloud. "...rough..."

An ear twitched at Bless' own question. Nope- nope- they didn't even want to think about it being Volt's blood. The idea that they'd barely been a room or so away, while he was being hurt---?

"...gimme a sec, I'll have the floor clean in no time." Even if he was- doubtful- of Volt's assurances...it would be best not to press for Node's sake. Besides- he didn't have any noticeable injuries...so he'd call that a win. "Are you okay?" Even though he was a moment from speeding off to get materials to clean the floor with- he just...he wanted to make sure.

[reflections-of-mobius]

@dyadhogs asked:

true to her word, amy had visited this time with some baked goods. unlike last time, however, there was something almost solemn about the heroine as she offered it to her friends. she tried for a smile, yes, but it didn't quite reach her eyes.

and she shifted, somewhat awkwardly, before looking at bless. "can i ask you something...?"

[Unprompted? | Accepting!]

Inari and Node were busy chomping away at the treats- a few happy 'thank you's' rising from the fox-duo as they went to town on the delicious goods. They could tell something was up- but between the three of them, Bless was the one who'd spent the most time with the pink hedgehog's alternate.

"Sure, Wisteria- what's up?" He'd noticed the moment she arrived, that something had been wrong. All of them were well-trained at this point to spot signs of distress in others, but Bless was by far the most attuned- and he figured, the one to whom Wisteria would feel the most comfortable speaking. He moved slightly off to the side, letting Node and Inari happily munch away.

At least Wisteria had been able to come about outside, and not a thousand miles away from Inari's shop- though they were all outside, standing just beyond the lip of the in-ground training center Inari had built for the heroes. The smell of pine needles filled the air, alongside faint birdsong that echoed through the trees from somewhere far off- the sun's light glittered off the dome of Inari's shop, illuminating the space before it.

Whether this was Inari's main shop, or one of his side ones...Bless wasn't entirely sure. He idly finished off one of the cookies Wisteria had brought- licking the grease off his gloved fingers for a moment before his emerald eyes flicked back up to her.

[reflections-of-mobius]

Anonymous asked:

🏳️ for Node ("What will make you give up?") 🧼for Bless ("Do you prefer to take a shower during the morning or evening? Do you like taking baths? What's your favorite scent of shower gel?") ❌ for Murk ("Would you do something that someone told you not to do? Why? Is there someone you'd actually listen to more than everyone else?") 🧋for Devlin ("What's your go-to thing to drink? Do you prefer cold or hot drinks?") 🥼 for Cinn ("Do you have to wear a uniform somewhere? If yes, how do you feel about it? If no, what kind of uniform would you love to wear?") 📖 for Rust ("What kinds of books do you read? Do you have a lot of time to read?") 🛴 for Tempest ("What's your preferred way of getting somewhere - own car, public transport, a bicycle, or something else? How well do you follow the traffic rules?") 🥰 for Azure ("What would make you feel happy and loved?") 🐇 for Strawbeet ("Do you believe in other dimensions?") 💽 for Tenebrosity ("Do you collect anything? Why?")

[Random In-Character Questions. | Accepting!]

"....probably the same thing that happened to Nature....repeats of the deaths of those I love,...unending,...until I'd just...shatter."

"I prefer about an hour before sunset, actually.- That way, I don't have to worry about an excessive amount of fur when I'm trying to get myself clean. Not really a fan of baths, though- and I don't use shower gel, so I couldn't tell you...unless we're talking shampoo in general, in which case... Run Like The Wind, which has a nice flowery smell to it. It's a bit stronger than the incense I light when I'm meditating in the morning, but it's still really good."

"....if the circumstances were correct,...I'm sure I would." Murk let out a small breath. "...the lives of those I have come to know...mean so much more to me than I could have ever imagined." He nodded lightly. "I would trust the requests of my allies over anyone else's, at the very least...though I do not believe I hold one in higher regard than the others."

"Orange Creamsicle Soda, no contest...and I do prefer cold over hot drinks. Have you seen where I live?"

"I actually don't- but if I had to wear a uniform, I'd want something that looked really nice! Like a button-up suit with a tie, or something. Not that it would really work given my day-job is repairing damage around Apotos, but it would look really snazzy!"

"What purpose do you have in learning about the literature I consume in my free time?" The answer is medieval fantasy, anything with a knight as a main character,....and no, due to being assigned missions left and right, alongside chatty coworkers.

"....flying." The faintest hint of wistfulness was on her face for a moment- and then gone. "I used to own a bike. Perhaps I should see about asking Tails for a new one at some point. I'm sure he would appreciate the challenge of an all-terrain bike that can withstand extreme temperatures."

"Cuddling and help with making gemstones....both of which Temps already does. Sorry anon, the position of 'girlfriend' is already taken~." He's just going to. Lightly stick out his tongue-

"Other dimensions goes against the doctrine of the Chaos Temple, so of course I don't!" He does- he's semi-friends with Murk, after all. And after his disillusionment with the temple,...he doesn't trust their teachings at all.

"Not as if yet. I'm not entirely sure if there's anything worth collecting, out there. The only thing I gather is rings- the higher the purity, the better. It makes me feel...just a little closer to my brother."

[reflections-of-mobius]

@dyadhogs asked:

"wait...you're not my sonic." given she had just opened her mouth to ask the other a question, amy abruptly snapped it close after that, looking a little embarrassed. at least she had caught herself...?

A chuckle escaped the hedgehog. He smiled lightly towards the pink mobian, emerald hues bright.

"Sorry about that. Kinda surprised you mixed me n' your Sonic up, honestly." Bless would have thought the teardrop of peach-tan fur on his chest, or maybe the armlet that was once Chip's necklace, would have given him away...but it was still interesting to get mistaken for one of his counterparts. "Still though!"

In the daylight, the faint light of the ring sitting in his chest was borderline invisible- something he was rather grateful for, especially with this chance encounter. He quickly snapped himself back to attention- the thought sliding in and out of his mind in a fraction of a millisecond.

"I hope you find your Sonic soon!- Ah, I should introduce myself." Even if this Amy already knew him- he was well-accustomed to the concept of multiversal nicknames by now. Years around Node and hopping between worlds had definitely been a decent teacher. "-Nickname's Bless. Nice to meetcha!" Though now, he was wondering if he'd accidentally hopped dimensions...or this Amy had. "....so...are you lost, or am I?" It was a half-joking inquiry, at best. One never knew with this sort of business.

[reflections-of-mobius]

@chaossensitive asked:

“Huh. Nice to see there really are 怖い顔の男 still out there.” There’s amusement in the darker blue speedster’s tone from where he was sitting and looking at the werehog below him. His grin said it all, but the shine from a familiar bracelet on his wrist was hard to miss.

From @chaossensitive (Aether) to Bless for fun.

[Unprompted. | Accepting!]

It didn't take more than a single tilt of his head for Bless to catch sight of the other- a hum already rumbling in his throat. Another alternate of himself- a darker, fluffier variety from the looks of it.

"Y'know, you sound like an old friend of mine." He found himself smirking. "それに、僕は『怪物男』じゃない。" Emerald hues slowly slid over the branch the other was sitting atop- before electing it was sturdy enough for a hedgehog and a werehog. Without a second thought, he let a hand shoot up- easily reaching the low-hanging branch and pulling, allowing him to be shot up just enough to land on it without issue. "Not a bad view, from up here- but it's got nothing on Jade Hills' sights." He let himself sit down on the branch, grinning towards his counterpart. "What about you? No fun 'scary' other form?" He'd hardly call it 'fun', but Bless no longer considered it a curse as he once had.

[reflections-of-mobius]

"Careful, or we might just take you up on that offer." It'd be nice to get away from their world for a few days and relax. Wisteria's- through the ring- seemed really soft and gentle. He could do with a few days' peace after recent events. "I'm sure we could all do with a vacation..."

"Speak for yourself." Inari shook her head. He had his hands more than full with trying to get Meteo Tech rebuilt from the ground up. "I think I'm good...save for maybe a few hours, on a day I can afford it. It'd be fun!" And yet there she was, rewinding his own words. Bless merely chuckled, shaking his head at Inari's indecision. He'd ask where she got that from...but he knew exactly where the finger would be pointing.

"Remember to drop by again some time!" Though...the fox was also looking forward to actually seeing the pink hedgehog's world- if through a bit more than just a swirling ring. There was no need to step through- they could see the destination as clear as day, so they waved- alongside Bless and Inari- from the other side...until the ring began to shrink and close, disappearing into thin air.

"I'm sure we'll be seeing Wisteria and her Sonic plenty soon.- Until then..." It was back to helping Mobius recuperate from the latest disaster. Still, the three couldn't help but share a last glance towards where the ring had been. Another potential ally- a friend, returned home safely.

That was all they needed to call it a 'good day'.

[END]

the heroine gladly looked her ring over with curiosity. she, of course, couldn't tell the difference between it then and now but she had faith it would work. bless was right, the prower label meant a lot in quite a few zones. wisteria's own included. even if there was a mistake here and there, tails was a genius and everyone knew it.

watching the ring once again float there in the air and expand like it usually would was a good sign. and seeing the familiar sight of the beach? yeah, it definitely worked again. thank goodness.

"i mean it, you're welcome whenever you'd like." she couldn't stress that much enough. especially if they really did need a vacation. there was an air about the group that wisteria couldn't quite put a finger on. but she knew that it had something to do with what bless had said. seemed they had gone through something major recently, and were still either recovering or coming to terms with things.

but she wasn't going to pry. she had bothered them enough.

with one more wave to them all she turned to node and smiled, adding under her breath, "i agree, that won't lead to anything good. they would need some serious supervision if that ever happened."

she knew the foxes would get a little ahead of themselves, even though they would only have good intentions. most likely. they would have to wait and see. just before stepping through, she smiled at the group behind her.

"thank you all again. i hope to see you again sometime soon!" with that she was pretty much gone, through the ring and onto the golden, sandy beaches that could be nowhere else but her home.

[reflections-of-mobius]

Because I can,...thoughts on who would dress as what for Halloween.

Vampire, whether pastel or not, who even knows. Probably similar to this outfit, save she'd also get contacts, some fake blood splatters near her mouth, and just have fun hissing at people. For those who can't see the outfit- think 'victorian vampire' with a dash of detective.

Semi-sexy pirate costume, probably a mix of a man's and a woman's outfit, since they'd want the feminine proportions but the masculine attire itself. Probably had to commission it, thank stars for making funds as a construction worker and protector of the city.

Fire captain. Mate doesn't really trust that any outfit they wore would look 'nice'. Would let the cats they look after at the cafe tear holes in it throughout their shift, no doubt. Mate doesn't mind or care.

Middle right. She'd claim it was a 'healer', no doubt. Honestly, Fin just strikes me as the type to wear witch-hunter outfits despite being a self-proclaimed witch.

Enderman from Minecraft. Absolutely just uses the whole 'stare at and they go wild' to disappear the moment he's spotted. Claims it's just 'really good visual affects'.

Hilariously, wine god costume. Even though the mate definitely has a low alcohol tolerance. However, it would semi-match with Bless, so they'd be happy.

Forced to wear a costume by some of his 'coworkers' (fellow agents). They somehow managed to convince him to wear a sexy cop costume, though Rust doesn't really get the intent behind it.. Xey're mostly in this to get its fellow agents to shut it.

A couples' costume with Tempest. He'd be the frozen king to Tempest's burning queen.

Sexy valhalla prince. Of course, he'd save that for later in the night....at the start, the top is replaced with a chain-link chestplate, though he does keep the cape (and gains a sword + scabbard- no not that sword, mind outta the gutter).

Wants to wear a costume, but he's afraid of being spotted by anyone. Wouldn't dare to wear one at the temple or anywhere near it while in disguise, either.

A couples' costume with Azure. She'd be the blazing queen to Azure's freezing king.

Good luck, she can change her form at will, so if she wants any costume change throughout the night, she'll get it instantly. Defaults, however, to a lizard witch.

[reflections-of-mobius]

@familylightfox asked:

Working out in the garden was always a good way to take his mind off of the way his hands had recently been trembling. Volt had carefully been tending to his tomatoes when the budding headache slammed from temple to temple in pace with his rapid heart beat. Cybernetic fingers spread in the grass to support his weight as his other hand came to rest on his chest.

The nausea brought forth a groan from his lips that turned to a dry heave. Then another and he coughed as the bile caught in his throat.

“F-fuck…” How had he not been paying attention…

He’d been so caught up on making sure his partners were fine that he forgot his own basic needs. Vision blurred, then darkened completely. The hybrid hit the grass with a dull ‘thwump’.

[Unprompted? | Accepting!]

For Bless and Node...each had missed all the signs. They'd passed off each time they'd spotted him like that- thought not without a hint of concern in their hearts- but it was a moment of terror for Bless when he heard the tell-tale dry-heaving from outside. He didn't even look Node's way as his tail began to puff up- instantly surging towards the outside.

He was a near-streak of blue, uncaring of the violent thudding in his head with each turn until he was outside- just in time to see Volt collapse. He heard a whip crack from inside the inn- but he still rushed forward, arms moving to grab the other. His pulse was so fast- his eyes were closed----! What had happened?---

The hit against the table.

It had been a few days ago- Bless had thought nothing of it at the time, but---

"VOLT!" He lifted the hybrid up- though was it just him, or was the other getting heavier? Nope, fear had just consumed him. "--VOLT, C'MON!" Panic flared through him, biting into every thought and trying to instill terror. He wasn't responding--- he wasn't waking up...!!!

"Bless!--- What happened?!" Node finally landed on the grass beside him. The two's worry about the garden was squashed- buried underneath their concern for the hedgefox. Node barely even noticed the smell of bile on the ground.

"I don't know- I just- I heard him retching, so I ran as fast as I could--!" Emerald eyes flashed from the fox to Volt, and back again. "---and then he collapsed! We- we needa get him to a hospital--"

"Too far- we need Augustus!" Hopefully, the older one would know what was going on. They weren't about to take Volt anywhere outside of the village, not if they could help it. "Volt, c'mon--- please!" Had he not drank a lot? Had he ignored himself?---- Why was he like this????

[reflections-of-mobius]

@familylightfox asked:

“I had t’ do a bit o’ diggin’ in my closet…” Volt started with a soft smile. A nostalgic smile as he brought out a disk that could be put into the television. He was quiet as the video started, announcing the Extreme Gear Grand Prix and listing off the competitors. There were likely quite a few familiar faces for his partners (including Bless’ alternate alongside Knuckles and Tails).

But one of the last Mobians listed was the hybrid himself, looking no more than 18 at the time and standing beside a golden Coywolf while holding his board. They both waved to the camera and the crowd before the canine departed so Volt could get into position. After they shared in a quick on screen kiss that was.

[Unprompted. | Accepting!]

"Oh?" Node couldn't hide the curiosity in their voice as Volt pulled out a disc. They hadn't seen something like that in quite a while- everything these days was on USBs and phones,...but it was pleasant to see something they were slowly beginning to consider a bit analog by comparison. "Wait, is'is...?" Node watched with rapt attention, a laugh or two coming from Bless as he witnessed his alternate friends- and himself- at a far younger point in their lives.

"Wait a second..." He murmured as a familiar- and yet so different- hybrid appeared on the screen, alongside a certain coywolf that had his smile turning a little brighter. "...one of your races, V?- And I'm guessing the one who just stole a kiss from you.... Düster?" He had only ever seen the mobian in photographs and holograms before. Volt's previous partner- gone far too soon, as far as Bless and Node were concerned. "Already going for a victory kiss, huh?" He couldn't help but wink in the hybrid's direction, before turning his attention back to the screen. Scarred, wearing strange bracelets that glowed a faint purple, both arms made of flesh and bone,...he looked so young.

The two were half-caught in the recording, unable to hide small, matching smiles. One of their few ways to connect with Düster,...and a glimpse into Volt's history that wasn't word of mouth or a photo. All avenues were welcome- but there was something inherently softer about seeing the old film.

Node moved to pull Volt and Bless down onto the couch, that way the trio could actually watch the video- instead of standing around while it played. There was a certain twinkle to their eye as they settled in, unable to resist a small chuckle as Volt and his beloved shared a kiss for the camera. Yep, that was definitely Volt...it sent a pang through them that he looked so young and happy- less haggard and wayward...seeing Düster alive...

"If memory serves...didn't he design that board for ya?" They weren't going to focus on that. It was better to focus on the happiness of the memory...of seeing their boyfriend happy and enjoying his life.

[reflections-of-mobius]

"...we'll get you home." He wasn't sure if he spoke that more for the kid's benefit, or his own. As if he was promising himself he would help them- in a way save them. This wasn't the two's world... It was his, and they didn't belong here...even if the fact pained his heart to consider. He returned the squeeze Yana gave him, careful not to apply too much pressure, just in case.

The echidna never broke eye contact as he raised a hand to the Master Emerald. The air began to electrify, crackling quietly as Chaos Energy flowed out from the massive gem. Hunt's quills slowly rose as he offered a reassuring smile.

"There you are..." It hadn't taken the Master Emerald long. It found its alternate part, allowing Hunt to read the energy embedded...the slight differences that told of its universe. Older than his own gem, by at least a dozen years- it made sense, given the kids before him. There was a faint glow to the echidna's eyes as he opened them cautiously, violet hues returning to the children before him. "...feel free to visit in the future, okay?" He wasn't sure they would- after all, he wasn't their 'Baba'..but it was a prospect the echidna found himself hoping for.

Green smoke sparked and cracked as it rose, slowly encompassing the two echidna-bat hybrids.

"Don't worry, you're safe." If he were younger, he probably wouldn't have said anything as he sent them off. The smoke fell away as the pressure in Hunt's hand disappeared- the Master Emerald's glow flickering. For the kids, it would probably feel as though they'd just been carried a few feet...but in reality, it was so, so much more than that.

"Who knew you had a soft side, Hunt?" The echidna crossed his arms, the soft smile he'd reserved for the children instantly replaced by a scowl.

"Tell anyone, and I'll smash your teeth in."

"Good luck...thanks for your help, big guy!" Hunt growled, a protest rising in his throat- but Node and Bless were gone in an instant, leaving him standing alone before the Master Emerald. He blinked- once, then twice.

"...cowards..." But the echidna had chuckled quietly to himself all the same, rolling his eyes as he moved to sit down once more- his back pressed against the glowing green gem. As he relaxed back to watch the sky, he couldn't help but hope the kids had gotten home alright... "...'soft side', my ass..." The echidna grumbled.

"Scruffy." Kaz corrected. "Mama says you're scruffy." Their father was certainly older and scruffier thanks to his fluff. Both the twins seemed to follow his gaze towards the Master Emerald, another familiar sight. It was weird how all of this seemed so comforting and familiar and yet strange all at once.

Both of them turned their attention back towards Knuckles. Node was right in that they were fully paying attention to him. It was most likely just habit from listening to their own version of him. He might not look exactly like their Baba, but he was similar enough that they seemed to take in every word as if he was telling them something very important.

The twins shared a glance at his question. They had been trusting a lot of strangers today ever since they were suddenly teleported. It seemed like they were taking a moment to have a silent conversation before looking back up at the echidna.

"Okay." Kaz said. He honestly had been suspicious of most of these people since they arrived. It felt like they had been sent into some weird dream state where everything was wrong. It was weird and he hated it. He wanted to get back home.

Yana was the one to reach out and grab Knuckles' hand though, giving it a small squeeze. Well it was a big squeeze for them, but their hands were just so much smaller than his and not nearly as strong. They gave their own hopeful look towards him.

[reflections-of-mobius]

@familylightfox asked:

Volt was gentle as he used his claws to comb his partner’s quills that night. It was something he did often there on the couch in the lobby to help ease the ache that came from the usual transformation. But when he looked up to see Node approach, he put one finger to his lips.

The reason why?

To not give away just how many flowers he had woven into the werehog’s quills in the process. He could have been mistaken for a Disney Princess.

[Unprompted. | Accepting!]

It was always painful.- Maybe he'd just gotten used to it over the years, but where it once made Bless scream and thrash..now, there was only a dull ache as his musculature filled out, as fur grew, thick and dark, as Dark Chaos Energy wormed its way up his arms...it burned, the pounding in his head an all-encompassing sensation. It was all eased only by the gentle fingers of Volt, his frame semi-relaxed as dark smoke drifted off of him like a miasma- slowly drifting to the floor.

There were times the transition was almost instant, was a snap of pain like a burst...but times like this, when it stretched...were nice. He could feel something slowly being embedded into his quills, unwilling to look just yet. His eyes were still shut tight, soft purrs rumbling in his chest.

Node blinked. It was almost an instant transition- the faint sound of their footsteps on the floor disappearing without a trace, a hand slowly raising to cover their mouth...the other also raised, though this one held a familiar black-and-white phone case. Ever-so-silently, they opened the camera app...being sure not to make a sound as they snuck a little closer, eyes flicking between Volt and the flower-dazzled werehog.

After taking a few photos, they silently slid their phone back into their pocket- a hand reaching out hesitantly- only to retract.

Bless shifted- slowly raising his head from Volt's lap, nuzzling the hybrid's cheek with a soft hum. The transformation was finished- his lithe runner's form replaced with something more like an upwards-built tank, a small fanged smile forming on his muzzle.

"..thanks, V..." His eyes slowly shifted over, quirking an eyebrow at Node- who was still staring at him. Oh, they were so glad they got photos. "...what?- Have I got somethin' in my teeth again?"

"....no, Volt just made you cuter than usual...which is really a feat in of itself." The werehog's eyebrow only shifted higher.

"What?-" Node produced their phone, turning it on and around so that Bless could see the picture. The werehog stared at it for a few moments- silence filling the inn as his tail slowly began to wag.

"....thanks, Funke..." He turned, letting his lips brush Volt's cheek- resting there for a beat before pulling away. "....I expect to get those photos, by the way." A few of the flowers that Volt had braided into Bless' quills began to glow- as did the werehog himself, the ring in his chest thrumming a little more brightly. Some of the green stems grew further, intertwining amongst his fur.- One went so far as to split into another small flower, unfurling its petals before Bless picked it off.

His hand wrapped around the delicate stem, he presented it to Volt with a grin.

"Still doesn't compare to you, though." Was he being sappy?...just for a moment, yes.

Node felt like their heart was going to burst.

[reflections-of-mobius]

@familylightfox asked:

p = pda; what’s pda like with them? is there anyone who loves it, and anyone who’s less fond of it? what actions/words does it manifest as?

s = sharing; is there anyone who’s particularly territorial of their partners?

You know which poly ship I'm asking for. ;3

[Poly Fluff Alphabet. | Accepting!]

[Nahhhh I've got nooooo clue whatsoever~...Anyway this totally random polyship of ours came to mind,]

Very, very into PDA. Bless is going to peck Volt and Node off and on, give them hugs when he feels like it, all the things- his PDA is very much of a physical nature, and thanks to his speed (in the day) it's easy to do plenty of it. Miiiight do a bit too much and cause an accidental buzzing sensation, but it's fine, it's fine....

Node...is not as-into PDA. It shows up as hand-holds and nuzzles and bumps of their head against their partners in public. They say 'I love you' and use pet names incredibly often- every time they leave to do something, no matter if it's a few feet away or miles, or a universe. They know Volt likes PDA, so they try to make sure to nuzzle both plenty.

Node is definitely territorial of their partners. They know Volt has a side-gig as a sex worker and they won't try to stop him (after all income is income) but anyone who isn't a customer flirts with Volt or Bless? Quickly wary of. The fox doesn't like to admit it, but-- they're also very easy to make jealous, so have fun with those issues. Of course, they're fine if someone wants to try courting all three of them (stars have mercy on that soul) but for the most part? Flirt with Volt or Bless and they'll get uncomfy. Do it too much and they'll be glarin'.

Bless is far less territorial. He doesn't mind the random flirt here and there and might even flirt back- or just shrug it off if it's not directed at him. He's just easygoing about that sort of thing- he's had to put up with flirts for years from random gals and dudes all over his own Mobius, so...it doesn't really affect him when it's directed at Volt and Node. If it's at him, he might just say 'sorry, I'm seeing some foxes' and leave it at that.

[reflections-of-mobius]

The floating city of Rooftop Run- it wasn't exactly the best named city out there, but it was close to the heart of New Sapotonia. The city soared just-barely below the clouds, stars visible ever-so-faintly in the sky, even on the brightest of summer days. And what a summer day it was- with streets bustling with tourists and residents, shop owners grinning as they sold their wares. The clatter of many footsteps on the metal ground resounded, quiet beneath the murmur of the people it carried.

Amongst this chaos, on one of the quieter streets in the city, two mobians walked side-by-side. One tail was rapidly waving from side to side, nearly fast enough to blur- the other still, twitching only occasionally as its owner kept their head lowered.

"I saw a restaurant based on Kurina a few blocks back, y'wanna eat there?" Bless offered quietly. His ear flicked, a soft smile on his face as he squeezed his partner's hand. The sun was bright, today- and sunglasses in the city were a must, lest one suffer from the magnified sunlight. "It didn't seem all that crowded." The hedgehog hummed. He kept himself close to his partner, nearly like a shield from the hustle and bustle.

Sweat beaded along both brows, Bless' favorite gear- the Blue Star- waving back and forth with each step as he walked.

"....sure." Node's own response was quiet- their voice barely above a whisper. Bless pulled Node a little closer, ready to whisk the mobian away from the crowd- when he stopped. Node stopped as well- as did several other mobians throughout the street. The air crackled and vibrated, practically glowing green as many took steps back- while Bless and Node took a step forward.

However, the two battle-ready mobians were not met with a threat- no, as the green coalesced into a crack in the air, it spat out two rather small mobians- the shock in the air practically palpable as the crowd stared.

"Talk about making an entrance!" Bless chuckled. The crowd's energy- previously one ready to form a mob, or perhaps flee in terror, relaxed. "You kids okay?" He took a step forward, a helping hand offered. Out of everything in his life... Kids falling out of a green crack in the sky (one that burned with Chaos Energy) somehow... Felt relatively normal to the hero.

[@bundlesofchaos | Chatted for a starter!]

[reflections-of-mobius]

Bless flinched- but he didn't set Comet down. He grimaced slightly, worry flooding his thoughts. This kid- how long had he been on his own, that his automatic response was fear? He held out until the kid fell unconscious, emerald hues softening at the collapsed form in his arms.

He'd just have to make sure the kid was okay....or at least clean him up, before letting the little one run off on his own...it was against Bless' nature to refuse a soul in need- especially one that looked so battered. He carried the blue hedgehog into his home, briefly speaking with Node before setting off to the bathroom to begin taking care of the injuries he could see. In such a state, it was a surprise the kid had still been running when he'd dashed onto Bless' path..

Only when everything was applied, and every cut was bandaged, did Bless finally allow himself to relax a little. The kid was still sleeping- shallow, but at least it was steady. That was all he could ask for. He slowly reached into the tub, pulling the mobian out and into his arms.

"...it's gonna be okay, lil' guy.." He murmured. The hedgehog exited the bathroom cautiously- making his way through the semi-furnished, cavernous tunnel that served as a hallway...before finding the curtained entrance of the guest bedroom. He brushed it aside with a hand, the pulsations of his green ring a soft light in the darkened room.

The kid was probably going to freak when he woke up...but Bless couldn't change that. He sighed to himself as he set the smaller version of himself (at least, he assumed the other was a Sonic) onto the mattress, brushing his hand along the kid's head for a moment.

"....you're safe here, kid...promise..." He doubted the kid could- or would- hear him...but he hoped the child wouldn't flee.

It was likely, given he'd been running and had panicked on instinct earlier...but Bless would still hold out hope, even as he turned to leave the room- pulling the curtain slightly to the side so that the other would be able to see the hallway, whenever he awoke.

As soon as Comet felt himself be lifted up off the ground, he jolted and writhed, a desperate motion from a frightened, wounded animal. Quills bristled and threatened to pierce Bless' hands as the smaller hedgehog cried out weakly.

☄️⯮ "H-Help-!"

Clearly the boy was delirious from pain and exhaustion, believing he was under attack even after having reached safety... and then he finally fell unconscious, having used what little energy he had left in a vain attempt to protect himself. Comet didn't seem to yet realize that he didn't need to fight and defend himself anymore, however. He was safe.

No more motion came from the boy as Bless zipped into the house with him, bringing him into the bathroom and laying him carefully in the tub. Occasionally he would twitch or whimper softly, but didn't seem to be awake in the slightest. This was probably a good thing, as he would almost certainly start squirming and fighting once the older hedgehog started applying the medicine to his wounds.

At least he was breathing. It was shallow, yes, but he was still breathing all the same.