#I remember i've been cocooning this idea in my mind for a long time but without banshee remembering her

[scrubbinn]

_____ HRT: 15 months: “Human”

“Hey Mayday. How's my girlfriend doing today?... I hope you can hear me in there. I'm recording another tape for you in case you forget everything again. I just got back from the doctor, they ran some tests, still couldn't figure out what's up with my knee. I think maybe I'm just cursed, with this broken human body. I guess you don't have to deal with that now huh? Lucky.”

“It just sucks, you know? Not a single medical doctor in Canada can tell me what's wrong and then when suddenly, magic exists, it gets regulated so you can't use it for medicine! Ugh. Rules are dumb, why do we even have them. Also sucks that I have to walk here every time I miss you. Which is a lot. Why does everything have to be so shit?”

“Speaking of shit, you should have heard me go off on that doc when you first started… cocooning? I’m blanking on the word. But I just went off on that man, It felt so good just to throw everything back in that pompous jerk's face! He had it coming, you have no idea how long I've been waiting to go off on a medical professional. He does have his uses, I suppose. You weirdly seem to like him, and at least he can put in enough effort to care about your physical health. But you should have seen how he reacted to you, he makes me so, so, so, AAAAARG! Sorry, you don't like yelling right?”

“You know, when I heard about you passing out nearly half a year ago, I thought, this is it, I'm going to lose her forever. I guess I did, when she decided to forget me. That's not fair, I just, I can't help still being mad about it. After everything we went through, and everything you went through with our friends and family. This really meant more than all of those memories put together? God you're such a dummy. I wish I could understand you.”

“Getting to meet you all over again, I didn't hate it like I thought I would. No matter the memories, it really was still you. Just, a little different. Sorry I kept pushing you to remember something… Maybe it was wrong of me. But every time I saw your face, your eyes looked back like they were trying to remember anything. It made me kind of happy, like I was important enough that some small part of you didn’t want to let go of me. I thought we were making progress. But if we have to do it again when you come out. I might actually start to hate it.”

“...Hey, you are happy right? This is what you wanted, yeah? You know I'm ok with you not being human. When you told me you were thinking about this, I supported it. Though, I'm still having trouble getting used to it. I don't really know how to feel now that you're like this. I just, I want what makes you happy, and I know you want the same for me. It's just been difficult right now. To keep smiling. I… I went to that sushi place we were going to go to. They had really good unagi. I ate so much I could barely afford the bill, haha. I know if I go there again without you, it's just going to taste like nothing. If you're not there with me, what's the point? This moment. The world has color again, I can taste things again when I'm in this room, and it hurts so much because you're not here. I'm sorry I… I'm trying not to cry in front of you hun. I'm sorry.”

* * *

“You don't mind if I stay here tonight do you hun? I don't really feel like walking back home right now. When I’m with you I- um, hello?”

“Oh didn’t realize anyone else was here? You’re Abigail right?”

“And your May’s mom right?” Are you here to see her?”

“Yes, I haven’t actually checked in since I heard the news. Is that. Her?”

“Pretty sure yeah. Unless there’s another girlfriend shaped cocoon that I missed. D- Do you need a tissue?”

“No, I’ll be fine, thank you… Pardon, but would you be able to answer a question? I don’t really understand this whole therian thing. I’m still a little shocked when Mich- Mayday said she was doing this sort of thing in the first place. I’m fine with it, I support her. But, did she need to do this?”

“Huh, what do you mean?”

“Well I mean, did she need to change? Isn’t it just safer to hide? She’s doing such a brave thing but there are so many people that might hurt her. It's my job to worry about her, and I know this city is better and all with this sort of thing, but what if she gets attacked when she visits, what am I supposed to tell my sister if she asks what Mayday is up to. My family doesn't even know her name is Mayday now.”

“...Oh. Oh, this is weird seeing it from an outsider perspective.”

“I'm sorry? What do you mean?”

“It's that you don't get it, I mean I forgot it until now, but you don't understand. It would have been more dangerous if she didn't do this. She's in pain, her gender, Her body, her species. They don't match her brain. It's not like it's a choice either. She's hurting. Her staying human, she might have made worse choices. Ugh, I'm sorry hun. I should have realized how much this means to you, I'll be here, for real this time. I'll be here for y…

Oh my god, it's tearing. G-g-go! Get a doctor!”

“What? Oh! Uh, right!”

“Hun! Can you hear me? It's me! Follow my voice!”

“A…b…i…

Mimic HRT: 15 months: “no longer”

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Mention list: @a-shramp, @calliecwrites, @be702, @respectfulevil, @hyacinthdoll1315, @aster-is-confused, @bloodandbrandywine

[fandomohana]

So, I'm on my period, and I've been cramping like a son of a...I think we could all use some sweet, gentle Eddie love, when the uterus is engaging in a full mutiny.

As always, unless otherwise stated, this is part of the 1986 Will Be Their Year, universe.

Literally whipped this up on my phone, all mistakes are mine.

18+ Minors do not interact!

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

Eddie's princess was on her period. His fierce warrior lay curled in on herself in his bed, groaning quietly in pain. His heart aches with every little whimper that comes from the cocoon of clothes. He hated seeing her in any kind of pain, especially pain he couldn't vanquish. What he could do, was curl in behind her, and gently rub her back.

This was the position the pair found themselves in, when Eddie had a thought. He knew orgasms released endorphins, and that that magnificent chemical could reduce pain. His only problem was her dislike of the idea of full period sex, but this was quickly remedied when he remembered how much she enjoyed riding his thighs.

With a kiss to her temple, he shifted away from her, moving to the head of the bed, leaning against the wall with his legs stretched in front of him. He brushes two fingers across the loose hair covering her face, "C'mere, baby." He murmers as he urges her up. A look of confusion crosses her face, as she looks into his doe eyes, "Gonna make you feel good."

She shuffles up the bed, Eddie stopping her short, and urging her up to her knees. He quickly popped the button of her jeans, and began to shimmy them down her thick thighs. As if reading her mind, Eddie reassures her, "Gonna give you a thigh ride, make that pain go away." He mumbles into her neck, before helping her to step out of the jeans, and onto his thigh.

She buries her face in his neck, whimpering as another cramp racks her body. Eddie's hands find her soft, full backside, taking a handful of each cheek, and slowly moving her hips to grind her pussy against him. "Take what you need, sweetheart." His voice never rises from a whisper, helping her to grind down on him, until she feels strong enough.

Soft praises fall from his lips as she begins to move on her own, his hands turning to her thick thighs. Her pleasure is his pleasure, the puffs of warm air rushing past his neck as she begins to grind faster. Moans and whimpers escape her pretty lips, he can feel them reverberate against his skin, driving him wild. But this isn't about Eddie, he won't feel good until she feels good.

His name falls from her lips like a prayer, hitting his ears like an angel chorus. He can feel her thighs clenching against him as she chases her release, lost in the pleasure he so happily gives her.

Eddie has played her body often enough to know the signs of her impending release. He snakes his hands up, and over her wide hips, past her full breasts, and urges her head up. He will never get enough of the way she looks when she is sex drunk, and fucked out. She looks like an angel, sweat breaking out on her beautiful face, hair sticking to her skin.

He presses his forehead to hers, "Eyes on me, pretty girl." Their eyes lock as Eddie urges her forward, "Come on, let go, baby, cum for me." He always knows what to say to push her over the edge. He feels her tense, sees the look of ecstasy come over her face as a long, whimpery moan rips from her lips.

"That's my good girl." He softly kisses her lips as she rides out her climax, body softly jumping as her body comes down from the rush of orgasm.

As Eddie is about to cuddle her close to him, he feels her scamper away from him, removing herself from his lap in horror. Confused, he looks into her eyes, they had done this many times before, had he done something?

Before Eddie could ask, she spoke softly, fear still tingeing her words, "oh god...did I bleed on you?" Her eyes are wide with fear, she had truly let herself go while she ground on his thighs, had she dislodged her pad? How horrifying it would be to bleed on the man you love! She searches frantically for any sign of stain.

Understanding dawns on Eddie's face, as he draws her back into him. "I don't care if you bled on me, baby. I know for a fact I bled all over you when you were pulling me through that hellhole." He rubs his thumbs against her cheeks, urging her face up. "This is part of you, it means your body is working as it's supposed to, it's not gross, or embarrassing. Shit, blood comes out, and all I care about is making you feel good. You're worth more than all my damn clothes." He smiles at her, before planting a soft kiss on the tip of her nose. "I love you, Princess. Not some sanitized, bullshit idea of you."

Her eyes swim in unshed tears, as a smile pulls the corners of her lips. "I love you too, Eddie Munson. Crazy, unfiltered, wonderful you."

A look of fake horror crosses his face, "Did you just call me crazy?!" He gently tosses her across the bed, before covering her giggling form with his own, "I'll show you crazy!" He covers her face in kisses, as her laughter fills the small room.

Eddie Munson never believed he'd find his soulmate, but she was here, and he would do anything to keep her laughing the rest of her life.

[tokkishouse]

I do write for Aether c: I hope you like what I did for the prompt. It's a very unique one

(Sfw) Le Papillon

Characters: Aether x GN!Reader

Warnings: Cursing, reader has an anemo vision

WC: ~1k words

People will go on and on about how pretty butterflies are. The grace they represent. The beauty they display for all to see. They represent tranquility and calm. They're just magnificent.

Well, you're calling bullshit!

Butterflies are pretty, sure. But for you, all they represent is inconvenience. For as long as you can remember, you always had the ability to become a butterfly. Unlike Fischl though, who could control when she used Oz to fly and tactically evade attacks from enemies, your transformations were involuntary.

While you were sleeping, out walking by yourself, or sometimes while you were in the bathroom-- it was out of your control. Worst of all, you had no idea when you'd turn back to normal, meaning any future plans were horribly thrown out the window.

This translated into relationships you had as well. Suddenly no-showing to friends' engagements because you turned into a butterfly made some of them less eager to invite you out. Plans that you laid out months well in advance were suddenly foiled due to shrinking significantly and growing extra appendages.

Over the years, butterflies had grown to mean anything short of annoying. The only thing that hadn't been affected by this predicament was your relationship with Aether, your boyfriend. Life was nice enough that most outings or plans you had with him didn't need to be canceled because of your transformation. And if you did need to cancel? Aether coincidentally had a commission or task he needed to take care of. Everything always worked out.

Today changed that. You decided to accompany Aether on a commission today to clear out a hilichurl camp in Liyue. It was supposed to be straightforward-- show up, kick some butt, and leave.

But of course, right as you and Aether were going to kill the last Mitachurl, instead of finishing it off with a blast of anemo, you suddenly find yourself fluttering frantically in front of the beast. Just my fucking luck I'd turn in the middle of battle! you curse internally.

Both the mitachurl and Aether look at your butterfly form in confusion, temporarily stunned by the change of events. However, realizing this is not the time to falter, Aether quickly recovers and finishes off the mitachurl with a surprise attack. You flap your wings helplessly as your partner finishes cleaning out the hilichurl camp.

Once completed, Aether walks to a nearby tree, waving you over to follow him. You both stay under the cool shade of the tree in silence, and Aether watches your insect form with confusion and intrigue. His gaze eats at you, making you want to crawl into a cocoon and hide, and doubts begin to cloud your mind.

He's going to think this is weird and want to stop seeing me now. Who would want to date some weirdo that turns into a butterfly? you worry, your flapping speed increasing as you fall deeper into your despair.

"…I'll be honest. I've never seen something like this before. Is it a curse?" Aether asks, and you nearly fall out of the air in surprise. If you could, you give him an incredulous look. Realizing you wouldn't be able to communicate with him in this form, he changes gears.

"Let's go to my teapot and wait till you turn back. I won't get any answers if you're a butterfly," he decides, taking out the device from his bag.

✦✧✦✧

You didn't have to wait long to turn back-- as soon as you both entered the teapot, you reverted back to your normal form, much to your surprise. You fall flat on your butt as gravity works against your body, causing you to yelp in pain upon impact. Aether rushes to help you, but you quickly wave him off.

"I'm fine, I'm fine! Just wasn't prepared to turn human that fast," you grumble, slowly pushing yourself up.

You dust your clothes off and look up at Aether, who stands there awkwardly fidgeting with his fingers. You offer him a tired smile.

"I'll answer your first question: no, it's not a curse. It's just something I was born with. At random times, I'll turn into a butterfly. Quite inconvenient really," you explain. Aether furrows his eyebrows, taking on a pensive look before his face lights up as if he's made a breakthrough discovery.

"Like a cicin mage?" You throw him a cold glare, and he flinches.

"Never compare me to Fatui ever again," you hiss, and he nods aggressively, not wishing to invoke your wrath.

As you make your way into the house to properly unwind for the day, you go into detail about how you've lived with the predicament and how turbulent it's made your life. Getting everything off your chest was relieving. You never had the opportunity to share how you were feeling with anyone, and having these pent-up emotions made your animosity toward your abilities grow.

It helped that Aether was such an attentive listener. He didn't interrupt your explanations or make any judgemental comments. You could tell he was carefully wording his questions so as to not pick at any sore topics. By the end of it, you felt as if you both got closer.

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner," you apologize, rubbing the back of your neck sheepishly. "I don't know how you'd feel about dating a bug person." Aether laughs and gently nudges your shoulder.

"I've fought giant sea demon kings and the shogun's puppet. I've watched multiple harbingers turn into monstrous versions of themselves. You turning into a butterfly is nothing, y/n," he reasons. He pokes at your face, grinning. "Unless you turn into a giant butterfly monster. Then we have a different problem on our hands."

You laugh at this, the image of you as a giant butterfly laying waste to Teyvat inspiring amusement instead of fear.

"Don't worry, I don't think that'll happen any time soon," you assure him. His smile relaxes and he takes your hand.

"Then I don't care! And who knows, maybe we can find a way to control it? We can ask Ganyu or Xiao since they have animal forms, right?" You raise an eyebrow.

"I don't think the adepti would waste time on this, dear."

"It wouldn't hurt to ask now would it?" You hum in thought, looking out the window to take in the peaceful environment in the teapot's outdoors.

"S'pose not."

Tumblr was being a pain with the editor so I couldn't reply directly to the original ask.

Requests (both sfw and nsfw) are open~!

[dreamsandstars24]

To be known by you

I'm just gonna giggle like a little girl and drop this here in Tumblr.

This is a little peek into something I've been working for a while now. It's gonna be a series (elucien/gwynriel) but the main characters will be Elain and Gwyn. ELRIELS, BRYRIELS OR WHOEVER OTHER TOXIC SHIP YOU BELONG DO NOT INTERACT.

WARNINGS: Honestly, just two girls being girls (👩‍🦰🗡👱‍♀️🌸).

Enjoy this little peek! And don't forget to show your support, I really want to keep this one going.

Elain was convinced that she, as a matter of fact, did not belonged in the night court.

But then, she didn't belong in any court.

The proof was how she had asked to go to the house of wind to visit Nesta and Cassian, but since Nesta was not there and Cassian had to go somewhere she wasn't allowed to know because she wasn't a member of the inner circle, they had dropped her off at the house and told her that someone would go and take care of her soon.

Now, she was there, a grown woma--female, and she was waiting for her nanny to come and pay heed to her needs.

She didn't know what was more pathetic: the fact that they thought she needed a nanny, or the way she simply accepted it.

Currently, she was looking around the library, remembering those first months where she had been reborn, remembering how empty she felt at the way she had lost everything. She still felt like that sometimes.

"You must be Elain." A voice behind her said, curiosity being laced with the delicate voice of the female.

Elain turned around ready to find an actual nanny, but instead she found a tiny red haired girl with teal eyes and a million freckles, with a toned body being covered by illyrian leathers.

The female blinked at her, and Elain found her voice. "Yes," She mumbled and then shook her head clearing the whispers in there. "I mean: yes, I am Elain."

The red haired girl nodded and closed the library door behind her. "Well, I must confess that I was expecting to take care of a kid." Elain blushed furiously which caused the red haired girl to hurry and explain. "Not that there is something wrong with needing someone to take care of you! Because it is okay, I should know ," the girl shook her head with a sight. "What I mean is that the way Cassian said I had to come and they way he worded it made me believe I would be babysitting."

That unsettled Elain. The inner circle had stopped protecting her a long time ago and had started to keep her locked within herself. They didn't told her anything, they kept quiet always, they didn't include her in plans that could possibly affect her.

And Rhys, by the cauldron, Rhys acted with Nesta so horribly simply because Nesta hadn't kept Feyre from going into the forest to hunt. Sometimes, when Rys was being a total arse, she imagined herself getting up and screaming at him that she was also guilty of it, that Nesta wasn't the only one to blame.

Sometimes the guilt ate her alive. Yes, she had no idea about hunting like Feyre or being aggressive like Nesta but she knew how to grow things. She could have grown vegetables to feed her family instead of spending all that money on flowers. But the inner circle only blamed Nesta, and kept Elain in a cocoon that was starting to deem a bit too tight.

"I do not need a nanny." Elain mumbled quietly, not wanting to offend the female that had clearly gone to babysit her in good graces.

The red haired girl nodded. "Noted. What about company? Azriel is going for bloodshed today in training and even though I am up for a challenge most of the time, I have my cycle and I feel near death."

Elain nodded curiously even though the mention of the shadow singer had moved an old wound inside her. Her mind whispered a name and Elain couldn't help but ask, "what is your name?" The female walked to one of the couches, giving her a soft smile.

"Gwyneth Berdara, but you can call me Gwyn." She recognized the name.

Gwyneth Berdara, one of Nesta's closest friends. She had won the blood rite as a carynthian, was a valkyrie and was an acolyte in the library.

Not only that, but she was also Azriel's mate.

The knowledge made her wince a little. After winter solstice, after the fiasco with Azriel, she have had a vision.

Azriel had gone with Rhys and Elain had been left clutching her necklace for dear life when the vision suddenly struck her. In her vision, Azriel was laughing but she couldn't hear his laugh, his eyes were sparkling as he stared at someone, and then a blur of red was going in circles around him, with a soft laugh echoing through her mind; his shadows were twirling freely and peacefully, and when the blur stopped, she saw red hair and Azriel gave a step forward and whispered "Gwyneth."

Elain had been able to see the threads of the mating bond between them, had seen the love and the longing in Azriel's face and she had known that she didn't stood a chance against it, so she had left the necklace behind and walked to her room, just a few door away from her own mate, and cried herself to sleep. Now, his mate was right in front of her and she was sure he knew who she was.

Her knowing who he was seemed impossible, but that was not her business. She had enough with her own mating problem, or in better words: the lack thereof.

[discoknack]

Ghost Kafka Attacks!

Mainly @sonicasura's idea, but I think maybe we have different philosophies? For one thing, I'm evil...

This got away from me again. Anyway, my thinking goes like this:

I modified certain details from Sonicasura's post. The main concept is the same: at 26 years old, Kafka throws his life away to protect his co-workers. Almost at the end of the day, they had been cleaning up a large plant-type Kaiju, whose pheromones attract a medium-sized insect-type Kaiju looking for food. The way the situation is described in the post makes me think: both of these are in the manga that I've only read bits and pieces of. So if that is the case, this is the same, but if not, I will explain. The invading Kaiju is like a wasp that eats nectar as well as insects and meat, and can fly. It can also spray its victims with sticky silk, like a spitter spider, but unlike a spitter spider, its sight might be much more acute.

The Kaiju is on top of them in no time at all, with the poor Sweepers shouting at one another to get down and hide. High probability of an imminent blood bath! Kafka, opportunistic as ever, covers himself in nectar from the plant Kaiju to turn himself into bait. He sprints out and away as fast as he can through the empty streets, aiming to lead it away from his crew and distract it long enough for the rest of the Monster Sweepers to hide or flee. In this regard, he is successful.

But the attacking Kaiju ensnares him in its silk.

He has plenty of time in that cocoon to contemplate his last moments while under the influence of the Kaiju venom. We can agree on some themes. It might be anger at himself for breaking his promise and getting himself killed, hoping everyone else got away in the end, fighting to go on or at least praying to be remembered, and desperately desperately begging Mina to forgive him for his failure. What frustrates me is I want something more. Something evil. But y'know, Kafka's flavor of wrath wouldn't be triggered in this situation for Reasons. Without having read the full manga, I guess I'm going with the so-simple-it's-stupid option: fight or flight. And I changed the mechanism for Kafka becoming the type of ghost he is, sorta. Anyway,

Kafka, having been killed through suffocation within a maddeningly painful venomous silk cocoon, is in a high state of stress that does not immediately abate, even after he killed his killer and sucked up its soul.

I don't know how he does that yet, so I'll skip it.

As he has no immediate purpose and has not yet regained the ability of abstract thought or other forms of higher thinking, Kafka wanders around, confused and in emotional pain, hugging himself. His previous agony was so intense, that I'm not sure what's going on in his mind in the immediate aftermath. Does he even know he's dead? On some level he likely does, but perhaps he is also having a temporary lapse in sanity, or suffering from delirium. In any case, he is instinctually looking for help of some kind, but doesn't know how to get it.

I like to think that once his spirit had emerged from the still-closed cocoon, he mostly resembled himself, right down to the white Monster Sweeper uniform on his apparition. Only also with piercing green irises, a dark aura over his form, and an odd, often fleeting, sickly sweet scent. There's a certain pained expression he made that seemed off-putting, but I can't describe it. Still dunno how he ate that thing.

But after consuming the Kaiju soul, his form became like a shadow puppet, still human in shape but the details are harder to make out. Now his eyes and mouth are a starkly-glowing green. His teeth are still currently flat, except occasionally fangy when he's really pissed off and about to eat someone. He transforms further the more kaiju he consumes, so he'll eventually get a full set of permanent sharpness, among other changes, such as: the shape of his body becoming serpentine except for his arms and face; his hair becoming more like fur in texture and running all down his spine so that the end of his tail blends fluff with smoke; the rest of his body developing hair that's very fine, dense and no more than one or two millimeters long, something like an agreeable velvet or one of my favorite sweaters; clawed fingers like talons, although I'd prefer his hands retain a more human shape, but human fingernails are quite fragile. But that's all later. For now, he looks like a human shadow.

The lingering sun, as it descends to dusk, has him feeling some kind of way when he's caught in its light. It doesn't hurt per se, but it's overwhelming for an already-overwhelmed man, and highlights the sensation of feeling physically insubstantial. Lower levels of ambient light help him feel a little more real. So he sticks to darker areas like alleys.

The Defense Force arrived at some point, only to find the wasp Kaiju already dealt with, and a cocoon that was the perfect size to house a human victim. Though, as is the case in the original post, they couldn't breach the cocoon's walls. And it, as well as the body inside, remained fresh even months later. I should explain that the freshness is a common idea in the stories I've read about Onryō, and not necessarily something the wasp Kaiju did.

At some point he has wandered across districts, slowly calming down. The occasional screams of other spirits who flee from him or turn away tend to startle him again. His reactions slowly change from wild fright in his delirium that has him running and crying from no threat at all, to seeking out a shrieking soul to check if they're alright, to quickly realizing that they want nothing to do with him but he's not really sure why.

He's cooled down enough now that he can think a little. When he finally encounters a living person, the notion of his death finally sinks in. It's not so dramatic. He doesn't cry out, though his despair returns a little more. He just asks the stranger, "can you help me?" And while they turn, curious, they don't notice him, and become slightly perturbed when his hand phases through their shoulder. And so after contemplating his hand, Kafka wanders some more, wearing his glowing frown and not sure what to do at this point.

Cliché, I know, that he soon encounters a living shit-stain of a human being in an alley somewhere. Maybe some entitled wad that grins and keeps pressing if a vulnerable woman tries to tell him 'no'. The point is that Kafka would be hard-pressed to not kill and eat this guy. And Kafka is already in a bad mood.

So, you know...

Kafka has the villain wrapped in his silk, which was spewed from his fingers and mouth. The woman is long gone by now, having ran off as soon as the villain was distracted. Kafka is so full of white-hot rage that he slams the man into the wall a few times. And when he yells at him nothing legible comes out, only a roar of garbled language that cracks the concrete and has the bastard's ears bleed.

On some level Kafka knows something isn't right, and that he's doing something wrong. But at the forefront of his mind is wrath, retribution in favor of the woman this man harassed. Kafka gets ready to suck out this man's soul so that no one, alive or dead, has to suffer him again.

But Kafka is kicked in the head from the side and stumbles, dropping the sack. As an angry spirit, his inner chaos flares and he is like an animal, mostly in the way that humans are animals. He gets bigger in his posture, ready for a fight, and as a ghost, he gets some inches taller with this motion also.

Hikari Shinomiya has her hands on her hips and a bright face. "Hey there! You still in there, buddy?"

Kafka is confused by the juxtaposition of the surprise kick and the woman's friendly tone, and he backs away to look at her, lowering his hands. He unconsciously drips evil silk from his fingers, but it tapers off as he assesses the situation - even as impaired as he is. The nice woman in front of him must also be a spirit: her aura is of light. She doesn't seem to harbor any ill will toward him. The kick hurt, but also, it didn't? Kafka takes some moments to understand that she is solely addressing him. "Uh...?"

Meanwhile, Hikari carefully approaches him, somewhat like she intends to capture a scared animal. Slow, but poised to act if he makes any sudden moves. "I heard... a newbie was in town... so... Am I not too late?"

At the change of the script, Kafka's rage had dissipated. Essentially, he is still hurt and confused, and Hikari distracted him from his task. He doesn't want to hurt her, but also can't think of a way to disengage from her, and running away also isn't an option because he still wants to kill-a-little-bit this guy, so he freezes.

Hikari is able to take one of his hands in hers, the silk having dissipated. "There. See? Bet you other people were scared or ignored you, huh?" And she winked. "I'm Shinomiya Hikari." Then she blinks, registering something.

Kafka is able to speak again. As Hikari gets into his personal space and reaches for his face to scrutinize him, he leans away, physically and idiomatically shrinking, and says, "H-Hibino Kafka! That's- don't wear it out! There's been a big misunderstanding. I am very sorry!" He scratches his head with a free hand, chuckling nervously, " I just wanted to teach this guy a lesson and, got carried away... I dunno what's going on at all."

Hikari is distracted by whatever she noticed, not responding to his words. "Oh no..." and Kafka sweats. She holds his chin, squishing his cheeks, and wonders aloud, "just who did you eat already?"

Ok so I figured Hikari's been a ghost for a few years, and she knows or has at least heard that if you eat a soul, it can taint you in a way that locks you into a vampire-like existence, requiring you to sate a horror hunger with more souls. Hikari doesn't care about the piece of trash he wrapped up, but it would be best to prevent Kafka from eating him anyway so as to keep everyone safe in the long run and allow Kafka a friendlier coexistence with other spirits. Unbeknownst to her at first, Kafka has eaten a soul already, thus sort of dooming that neighborly relationship. But since it's not a person, it doesn't carry the same moral weight that would erode his sanity if it was.

I imagine that among vengeful ghosts who take up vigilantism and suck up human villains, there's a bit of a he-who-fights-monsters situation and they end up becoming corrupted one by one, devouring each other before being put down somehow. (I would totally watch/read something with that concept. Any recs?)

Also, I added more powers and quirks to Kafka than the original post. I already mentioned a couple of them here already and in Kikoru's Spirit Guy (in part 2, but here is also part 1 for those who want to read it). He has a sweet smell, which can be either pleasant like spring or candy, OR very oppressive, floral, and saccharine. Getting bigger and smaller is a subset of elasticity. Hikari can probably do it too. Kafka can also spray webs: clean ones like Spider-Man or a real spider's structural webs; or sticky ones laced with a psychoactive compound, the concentration of which depends on Kafka's choice and wrath. Unlike the killer cocoon, these sticky webs have a milder physical effect on their victims in the sense that they don't leave any marks. But they can still cause pain and additionally induce paranoia, hallucinations, agitation and/or catatonia. So, that guy he wrapped up is absolutely fucked already.

I have a suspicion that rather than including arson proper in his arsenal, pyrokinesis is more for lighting and putting out candles and lamps to control the light level. Thus to that end, he can also burn out light bulbs with a flash (though might not be able to turn them back on). I don't know when or if he'll use it.

Umm, that's about all I got for this point in the story. I have one more drabble thing.

[theartblockcentral]

RE; Of all the things that I know

30.08.23

Of all the things I know, there is only one question that seems to ring in my head with the same warmth you can get from drinking too much wine.

Is it really worth ____?

I had a fight recently with my ma ( which was longer enough ago that I remember but do not care enough to delve into ) after which we had a long chat after. In this, she mentioned, the key to a successful relationship, the key to things, the key to life is, Is it really worth all of this?

Not so much in a grim, is life worth living kinda way, but, yes, I suppose also like that too. I mean, that is how I used to value the question, and in which my life was an internal silence that hurt more than anything. It wasn't an internal peace. Life felt like scraping the inside of my mind with a metal dish scrubber and then filling my skull with hot sauce- that level of discomfort- but the vessel I was in, the vessel I was, has so little value, it became my own dead-weight. My therapist tells me that being depressed and baking in your bedsheets is a way of the person cocooning themselves from the outer world, and she's right. To this day, I'm not sure of what I was scared of... but I think maybe it was the question of whether my actions, whether the way my mind worked second by second, was worth keeping going. I felt like I polluted myself.

Nowadays, after six months in Italy, it's so different. Days feel like days again. Friends feel like people again rather than some kind of puzzle I had to solve. Food tasted. Noise sounded. Things came together as I slowly returned to earth.. and in all that time, I really did learn what was worth doing to keep me going.

While I was away I had a small episode on a night out. But because this wasn't a one time thing, and because it worried everyone and put myself at risk and I ran home, lost and confused, because emotionally I put myself back into survival instinct mode, they turned their back on me. It took enough gaul to apologise. At home I wouldn't have done. I just would have assumed that is what people kinda do my age. It's hard for me to see past myself sometimes when I get into the state of feeling alone, but I knew it was worth it to apologise wholeheartedly, to admit my mistakes, and to keep moving.

Some of the things that have been worth giving my time to to feeling more present have given me hope and meaning. I have friends who are worth the time: they are no effort, they are time well spent, and a part of my world. I go hiking, and get in touch with what my younger self would have loved: she is worth fighting for. Most importantly, is the seasons changing.

Back in England, the sky is so blank and white it collapses in flatly, rendering the world into a tiny white tent. It can get very depressing. The days are dark and cold, the nights are dark and colder, and it all seems to be in a small fish bowl of a place. However, what keeps me going, as a small practice that I so happened to glance upon in Wabi Sabi by Beth Kenton was how people pay attention to the changing of the seasons, and how their are more like 18 seasons than 4. However, after a long and stressful day, I ask myself;

What were the trees doing? Have they changed colour yet?

Was it cold? Did I dress for the weather? (Another thing I've learnt- life is improved the minute you dress right for the weather)

Did I see how the branches moved? Did I hear/ see birds etc?

Did I even leave the house? Sometimes I haven't. It's not such a problem when it's not such an outside kind of day, but to be honest, we are outside creatures. Sifting through my memories of all i've seen and pinpointing tiny things like that that I may have only seen out of a window once that day helps me grapple with the idea of being alive.

Ooh, here's a shocker. You can have an entire social event, day at school, meeting with friends, day at work, night out or dinner Without something bad happening. I have NO EFFING CLUE why this has taken me so long to realise, but to be honest, I never had a stable friendship group, a completely un-chaotic household (love them), day at school... everything went wrong a lot, and problems and whatsuch occured and I guess I was just used to that? The moment I realised was when I went to a birthday party of a friend in Italy, and nothing went wrong. I didn't feel bad, No arguments occured, no one got too drunk, everyone got along, no huge chunks of gossip either. Spoiler: people actually live like that. I loved it. It's helped me not be so afraid of planning my birthday, and I didn't make a scene this year. And it was perfect. It's really never worth being in a place where nothing goes right ever. You've just got to keep moving until you find it.

Conclusively, the answer to the question, Is it worth it?

The answer is yes.

I can't believe I'm finally saying it.

yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.

The people are worth talking to, the world is worth experiencing, even the sad and scary bits. Hey, you do learn at some point. You've just got to keep moving.

Aaaaand the arguments aren't all that. Not everything is worth being said. If you love someone, even if they don't love you, it is worth telling them, because that takes big effing balls to do, and admit you're willing to give a piece and never stop giving. But arguments, fights, all that, most of what you need to shout at someone, isn't worth it. Leave in peace physically or mentally. Vent to someone, move on from that person.

make it worth it.

[hyakunana]

A reverie of what could have been...

[aricazorel]

"You came back." "I promised, didn't I?" Prompt

Kaidan Alenko x Kori Reese; ME3, post- Citadel II (1465 words)

When the away party departed the shuttle after decommissioning yet another Cerberus base, Major Kaidan Alenko did not count on a personal visit by the Normandy’s XO. Yet there she stood in the docking bay, attempting to disguise her fidgeting with unnecessary fiddling with her Omni-tool. Lieutenant Commander Kora Reese might be able to fool some with her antics but not him. Kori was nervous and worried about something, and he was reasonably sure it had something to do with him.

With a nod to Shepard, the Major made his way over to Reese who stood next to one of the computer stations near the weapons modding table. She glanced up into his whiskey brown eyes and then quickly back at her omni-tool. Maybe nervous wasn't the correct word at all. Worried was but there was something else. Reese wasn't one to avoid eye contact especially with him unless…

Unless she was scared.

That thought set alarm bells off in the Specter’s mind as he came to a stop in front of her. What could have happened while he was on the away mission to cause her to be scared? And what did it have to do with him?

“Hey,” he said quietly, drawing her attention back to him.

“Hey,” she echoed as grey eyes met his again, her omni-tool still open, still running numbers on a simulation for a project she was no doubt working on. She always had multiple projects and sims running, hoping one of her ideas would prove viable enough with EDI’s help to use against the reapers or Cerberus.

Kaidan tilted his head slightly, all too familiar with her tendency to use it as a distraction as well. “What brings the Normandy XO down here? I thought Shepard told you to make sure not to scratch the paint.”

The Lt. Commander made a face at him. “I oversaw the retrofits with Traynor. The only paint that ever got scratched was that ugly-ass Cerberus orange.”

The Major smirked as he said, “Okay. Okay. Fine. But really, why are you down here?”

“Can’t I come down and see how the mission went?”

“Kori, you were listening in on our comms the whole mission. You know exactly how it went and you know that we took out another Cerberus base,” Kaidan said reaching over and switching off her ‘tool.

She opened her mouth to protest but stopped when the rest of the ground team passed them, heading towards the elevator. Shepard called out of his shoulder, “Not a bad ending for your first mission back on the Normandy without your girlfriend along to babysit you, Alenko.”

Kaidan made a face as he waved the first human Specter off. “Laugh it up, Shepard! I'm sure I can ask Liara for some embarrassing stories of her saving your ass.”

“Just because my girlfriend is a Shadow Broker doesn't mean she knows everything I've done or that she’s assed my ass!”

“Are you sure? I seem to remember something about coming back from the dead…”

Shepard scowled as the door shut. The Major just grinned. “You don’t actually babysit me—”

Alenko trailed off when he glanced down and saw the expression on Reese’s face. The same concern laced with what she could only label as fear reflected in her grey eyes. Something definitely wasn't right. Hearing Vega and Cortez banter back and forth as they checked over the shuttle for damage, Kaidan gently ushered Reese to the elevator. “We need to talk, don't we?”

“I don't—"

“Yeah,” he said as he summoned the lift. “We need to talk.”

Reese fidgeted but said nothing in reply. As the elevator doors opened, Kaidan glanced over at the Lieutenant Commander who continued to stare straight ahead. After boarding the lift, the Major said as the doors closed, “EDI, can you give us a few moments alone?”

“Of course, Major Alenko,” the sentient AI replied as she paused the elevator. “I will inform you when the elevator is needed.”

“Thanks, EDI,” he said as he crossed his arms turning to face Reese. “I feel like we've been here before.”

Grey eyes finally met his as she said quietly, “Hopefully less yelling this time.”

Kaidan's eyes went wide at the remark. Two days after he rejoined the SR2 he confronted her about the fact she was ignoring him. Tempers had flared as they discovered they still had unresolved issues even after rekindling the relationship on Earth. “I.. only meant that we talked in the lift. Not the other part.”

“We didn't talk in the elevator. You kissed me and pressed me up against the wall. We actually talked in the engineering sub-deck.”

Kaidan sighed as she once again corrected him. “Do we really have to go down there or—"

“You came back.”

Her words were spoken in a whisper, her eyes flickering between his gaze and his armor’s chest plate. Dawning struck the second human Specter like lightening. She was afraid he wouldn’t return.

He used a gloved hand to tilt her head back up to his level. “Of course, I did. I promised, didn’t I?”

“I just…” Reese began, her expression showing embarrassment at her admission. “It’s stupid but I just had to see you get off that shuttle. I—”

“Oh, hey! It’s okay, sweetheart,” Kaidan said as he drew her into a tender embrace. His Spec Ops armor really wasn’t conducive to it but he managed any way. “I’m here. I’m back with you where I belong.”

A he cradled her head to his chest the best his armor would allow, he realized she had folded her arms in against his chest. He was effectively cocooning her in his embrace. Reese had never been one to show vulnerability in public and it had taken a long time for her to do it with him on the SR1. Now as they struggled to begin again, he was continually surprised when she did so with him. It was especially unexpected considering the issues the incident on Mars had caused between them. The initial confrontation in the very same elevator after he’d joined the crew was a direct result of that.

On Earth before the Reapers invaded, they had begun repairing their relationship. A foundation of friendship had been remade. Slowly, gradually they had worked towards being more. Admittedly even before the arrival of the Reapers, they still had a long way to go.

But maybe there was more to what Kori worried about though. He knew a part of her still harbored a doubt that he might leave again without a proper explanation. And he owned that. He took every opportunity to prove to her through word and deed that he would not repeat past mistakes.

But Mars? That had been something else entirely. It wasn’t like before during the aftermath of the SR1’s destruction, one of them leaving the other because they chose to. Mars involved the possibility of losing each other because of their duty or succumbing to injuries sustained while in the line of duty.

The Major’s mind began putting together the pieces of the puzzle as he continued to hold the woman he loved to his chest.

His headaches. Her reaction in the hospital. Her accusation that he hadn’t been truthful about the severity of his migraines after his injuries on Mars…

The weekly inquiries into his medical records. Dr. Chakwas and Dr. Michel he expected. But a third party pinged his records on a regular basis as well. One routed through Alliance medical but without a specific name. It had to be Kori. She was that worried about him because of Mars but did not want to tell him. Most likely so he wouldn’t worry.

Kaidan closed his eyes as he continued to hold her close. He wouldn’t tell her he’d figured out her secret. Instead, he would continue to assure her he would always come back. That there was a future for them. That no matter the mission, the injury, or the pain he endured, he would always come back to her.

“Kori, I know things have never been exactly easy for us but I…” he paused as he moved his head to kiss her forehead. “I will always come back to you. Always.”

“You better, Alenko,” she murmured into his armor. “Or I’ll—”

“Kick my ass. I know,” he said with a grin as he hit the button to allow the elevator to resume its journey.

“Damn straight, tech boy,” was her murmured reply as he continued to hold her, not caring if the doors opened to reveal their current state to anyone. He’d spent far too long without her in his life, and he was not going repeat that mistake again.

He’d always come back to her. Always.

[puresephone]

alright motherlovers i’m going to be intuiting this here tarot spread. i asked some of my beautiful decks for the overall message and energy for today, 11/11! today is a very special and magickal day especially in regards to twin flames and twin flame energy.

anywho lets get into the reading. okay so this is my first ever reading so it might be sloppy but we’re just gonna roll with it bless

so the first card we have is transformation (aka the death card) which is ruled by scorpio. it’s all about change and letting go of the past to embrace renewal or new beginnings. let go of unhealthy attachments, fears, and grudges that may be holding you back from this opportunity for another chance or a more fulfilled life.

clarified by the eight of wands in reverse, the message i’m getting is to NOT RESIST THIS CHANGE. go with the flow, but don’t rush blindly into situations today ill-prepared and don’t try to run from or delay these changes. full moon in taurus is tomorrow which reminds us to let go of old energies that no longer serve us, while remembering change is the only constant in life.

ask yourself (from the guidebook): are there loose ends that need to be tied up? are there people in my life i need to express myself to? what needs to be completed so i can have a fresh start?

then we have power (aka strength, ruled by leo) in the reverse, which for this deck, just means to pay extra attention to it.

this card is calling you to remember you have all the inner strength and willpower you need to deal with these changes ahead of you, if you are someone who finds change hard to manage.

remember to approach every situation from a place of love. set aside the time to resolve issues and speak from a place of compassion. this mercury retrograde in scorpio, especially, it can be easy to get caught up in black or white thinking or feeling slighted. give other people the benefit of the doubt and remember mistakes happen in order to be learned from. (from the guidebook), ask yourself: what am i supposed to be learning here and how can i make this situation better?

clarified by the four of cups in reverse, what i get from this is a few different interpretations. i feel someone who has been withdrawn from the world, caught up in introspection or perhaps avoiding dealing with reality or their problems. i feel someone who isn’t being honest about how their true feelings and instead, choosing to isolate themselves from someone or people who love them. i feel someone who needs to look inside themselves and meditate and be honest with themselves. don’t ignore synchronicities.

ultimately though, when four of cups comes up reversed, i see the end of a period of stagnation and apathy. because this is a clarifier of the strength card, perhaps we feel reinvigorated remembering our true power as spiritual beings. we can now seize opportunities and manifest our dreams into reality (full moon in taurus tomorrow, nov 12, is PERFECT for that)

then we have the the third card which is the throat chakra. the chakras are energy centres of the human body and when the throat chakra comes up: COMMUNICATE! speak your truth and be honest. speak from a place of love. know that what you think and say matters. express yourself, the throat chakra is also about creativity. do something artsy today, maybe something involving words. journal or write a poem. sing or listen to music. do some positive self affirmations! express gratitude!

clarifying the throat chakra, we have the three of wands. this is a card all about new opportunities and moving forward. this is a card that represents fresh starts and to embrace change. three is represented by the empress, a number and card of creation. your planning and hard work is paying off, but also remember to dream beyond limits and be flexible and and keep an open mind!

the three of wands also reminds us that the journey has only just begun. there’s still time to turn back, but not for long. any time i see this card, i think of that scene from lord of the rings: fellowship of the ring when sam says:

Sam:

This is it.

Frodo:

What?

Sam:

If I take one more step, I'll be the farthest away from home I've ever been.

Frodo:

Come on, Sam. Remember what Bilbo used to say: "It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no telling where you might be swept off to."

speak your truth and be honest with yourself. you’ll never know how far it’ll get you or what opportunities could lie ahead

then we have the card emotional withdrawal in reverse. the border is green, signifying a connection to the heart chakra. this card is represented by the number 8, same as the strength card: passion, control and power. we need to use our courage and strength to continue our journey into this new beginning or undiscovered territory.

what i’m getting from this card is to be aware of emotional withdrawal. it’s good to take time for yourself as seen by the reversed four of cups, but don’t isolate yourself from the people who love you. these cards are actually similar to one another in my opinion. it’s okay to meditate on a situation and have alone time but as we already know, the only constant in life is change. you can’t emotionally withdraw and isolate forever.

with the number 8 here, it also means “infinity” so maybe you’ve felt stuck or like you don’t know how to get out of this withdrawed state. remember your inner power and to speak your truth and from a place of love (not fear) and everything else will follow. be in right alignment with yourself first.

clarifying emotional withdrawal, we have the five of swords. fives in numerology represent conflict. the five of swords comes up when there’s been a disagreement, falling out or conflict of some sort and you’re walking away with a sense of sadness or loss. feeling upset and resentful is also common with this card. you can feel like you’ve lost trust, dignity, respect, or company. the advice here is to PICK YOUR BATTLES

five of swords can also point out you may feel in competition. it’s not appropriate to win at any cost. someone else’s success does not equal your failure and certainly don’t try to bring other people down.

when the five of swords comes up in a reading it could be an invitation to apologise. brooding or trying to be right at all costs just makes relationships and situations all the more complicated.

because the five of swords is clarifying the reversed emotional withdrawal card, i’m sensing it’s an optimal time to properly apologise to people who you may have hurt or perhaps today you will be approached by someone who has hurt you (it is mercury retrograde after all). come out of your cocoon with emotional maturity and show you’re someone with integrity. learn from your mistakes and move beyond past mistakes and conflict into something new and brighter.

(gdi tumblr didn’t save my draft so i need to rewrite this part) then we have the fertility card (the empress) in reverse. again this deck isn’t meant to have reversals and when reversals do come up, just pay extra attention to it. i find it funny how i mentioned the empress earlier and boom here she is. so three is the number of creation, of taking an idea (the magician) and making it into a reality (the empress)

the empress is ruled by libra which is ruled by venus. love on yourself today and show yourself some self-care. indulge a little bit, treat yourself. take comfort in knowing the seeds you’ve sown and coming to and everything is going to work out. today and tomorrow are prime times for manifesting abundance.

hold yourself from a place of love and nurture your relationships. go out and connect with nature if you can today. growth is on the horizon and look at things you find beautiful today. things that give you pleasure, that make you feel love or good about yourself. care for yourself first and then show that care for others.

the empress is clarified by the sixth chakra, archangel metatron. honestly i know nothing about metatron so i’m not going to pretend i do. but the sixth chakra is the third eye chakra which is all about our inner guidance. follow and trust your intuition today and pay attention to your dreams tonight. clarity will make itself known today and you’ll likely have a spiritual download or realisation of some kind.

going back to the first card of this spread, transformation, the woman in the card made me think of having an epiphany. today something will click, the dust will settle, and what you need to know will be revealed. this card can represent a new beginning and a deeper insight of what’s been going on. this new beginning i’m feeling is tied to the realisation you’ll have today.

oh my god one card left

the last card is an affirmation for us all today:

“I find a deeper meaning and personal growth amid the discomfort.”

all in all today, despite uncomfortable situations or talks we may have today, ultimately these are the happenings that help us grow. we will never grow without changes or setbacks, without feeling out of our comfort zone. embrace the change and let go of negativity of the past. make way for renewal and beautiful transformations. the strength of our character will shine today. trust your intuition and go along for the ride.

[lightsorigins]

Fears & Premonitions

The sun was about to set when Malden left the Elzoh home. Sylvania sat on the couch for a few seconds and thought back to the afternoon she had just spent in great detail. What a surprise for her to have succeeded so well in playing her composition for Malden. She never imagined that he would like it so much. Her friend admired her enormously for many reasons, and Sylvania knew it perfectly. Nevertheless, something kept preventing her from having confidence in herself, no matter what the field. She was just the classic girl, who was appreciated because she did her job well, obeyed her mother and made sure she never acted or thought with the slightest bit of originality. To stay in the norm was to stay safe. It was staying "right," and probably the best thing to do in this world.

      The clock was ticking as fast as her thoughts were multiplying. Soon, she would have to get ready to join Teano. It was impossible to leave the apartment without putting her room in order. On her computer, she launched "Lamp" from "Etolica. ». Sylvania's room was a bit like her sanctuary: a vast room of about twenty square meters, decorated with white wooden furniture, syorized borders and handles. She really cherished them for the history they carried. Her grandfather and father had themselves spent time in the Arctia forest harvesting Siebyl wood. A good friend of her grandfather's, a cabinetmaker, had been responsible for creating the range of furniture that would be installed in Sylvania's room.

      There were jewelry racks, cabinets, two pictures, a bedside lamp on the desk, and a large bed and a simple blue rug covering well over half the floor. When she was younger, having participated in piano competitions, Sylvania had won prizes of varying degrees of praise, which sat atop her furniture, facing the faded light blue walls. She had left some study books on mathematical theorems, the history of the Mysticiën and texts to work on for the coming week. She sat down on her bed, looked at the dust on the floor, the books, some disturbed shoes and a pile of clothes before sighing loudly.

 -      How could I let all this build up in such a short time? Mom wouldn't let me leave the house without taking care of it... and that's okay after all.

      Without another word, she turned on. As the room returned to its original brightness, Sylvania was delighted. Suddenly she heard the key in the lock of the front door. Her mother, Prudence, had returned. Quickly, she went to the living room to find her.

      - Hi mom! How did it go today? Did you have many visits to the museum?

      - More than I would have liked, but it was fine. How was your day? Did Malden come to see you? What did you do then?

      - As expected, the piano, all that, what...

      Prudence gave her a doubtful look, before moving on. She was a very tall and slim woman, with a short haircut colored with an even brighter red than her daughter's. Her emerald eyes seemed to glow with a thousand lights when she was hiding anger. Prudence's face was always serious, as if marked by unspeakable traumas that were reflected in her full voice. Sitting down, she removed the long black coat that reached her boots.

      - And so you prepare to go to Teano, if I remember correctly.

      - Yes. Am I still allowed? Sylvania asked, worried.

      - Have you done your homework, my daughter?

      - Yes, and I'm even a little ahead of schedule.

      - Have you practiced your piano? Is your room clean? What time will you be home when you leave so late? What are you planning to do with Teano?

      - Yes, yes, and I think I'll be there in the middle of the evening. I need to have a little chat with him.

      - What are you going to talk about? Do you know if her father will be there?

      Prudence asked this question with a certain amount of anxiety that did not escape Sylvania's notice. This was not the first time that Teano's father seemed to be a subject of fear for her mother. But every time she tried to find out more, Sylvania received evasive answers, such as "No, there's nothing," or "You're imagining things," or "Enough nonsense, girl.

 -      I don't know if his father will be there, but I'm not coming to see him so it's okay! I need to talk to Teano about the band he's forming with Kieran and Malden, and also... I've been feeling a bit under the weather lately, you know.

      - Why don't you just talk to me, or your grandparents, like you did when you were little?

      - Mom... how can I put this...? I... I trust you and I can talk to you about it, I know that. But this is different. You know, Teano is a bit like me in some ways. He can understand me not just because he listens to me, but because he's going through similar difficulties.

      She was embarrassed at the idea of hurting her mother by showing her that, as a teenager, she would gradually need to detach herself from the family cocoon. In all soul and conscience of this reality, Prudence did not follow up the conversation. This evolution was necessary, she knew it, even if it was hard to accept. As always, she hid her pain, wearing a cold and placid face.

      - All right. Then I hope you have a good evening, and don't come back in the middle of the night. I won't sleep until you come back. Is that understood?

      - Yes mom, I promise. If you're worried, send me a message. Anyway, it's really close!

      Prudence nodded, and Sylvania prepared to join Teano. She put on a white jacket and frilly boots before setting off. She realized that she would have liked to talk to her mother about the phelidus story, but it had slipped her mind. It all came back to her on the way, though. She struggled to understand the meaning of this news and imagined the worst. The few times Sylvania had heard about these creatures, it was in children's stories, through Renyu's research or when her mother told her about dangerous adventures that ended very badly.

      - Phelidus on Lausya, she repeated to herself tirelessly as she walked through the city, where the snow had started to fall again. What if this pelidus wasn't dying? What if it was wild and started attacking everyone? Who could control it? How could we warn mercenaries fast enough? And yet, many people know that pelidus can only be controlled by a handful of atmologists and fighters, it's crazy... 

      The desire to send a new message to Annabelle to know more crossed her mind, but she was already about to arrive at Teano's house. In the big residence, it was enough for her to go along a few meters to the north of a big flowered and maintained park. This was where the richest families of Lausya lived. At the end of the park, separated from everything, was a large three-story house, surrounded by flowers and a few trees. This was where Teano lived, but not only that. Teano was the son of the mayor. Oscar. This individual hated by a good part of the people of Lausanne. The one responsible for the mechanical debris that littered the city and for many discords. The one that Sara dreamed to be able to bring down. Every time she went to see Teano, Sylvania had a thought for Sara, in connection with all these stories. She let out a sigh before sending a message to Teano.

      "I'm in front of your house. I don't know if..."

      Before she could finish writing, the door opened in front of her. Teano was there, a huge smile on his face. Without waiting another second, he hugged her with all his strength and pulled her inside.

      - It's so cool to see you! I felt you were there, right at the door, it was like a no-brainer. Right on time, it's all you. That's so cool. How are you today? I was in such a hurry!

      The girl shook her shoulders a little to get back on her feet after that powerful embrace. She still hadn't gotten used to Teano's emotional expressions, but it amused her nonetheless.

      - You know, I saw Malden earlier. It was cool, I got to play him a song, and we talked about the band.

 - You have to tell me this, but you look a little tired! 

 They entered the large living room. The fireplace was lit, and the smell of burning wood wafted in. Huge windows illuminated the room with the magical, dark blue of systrielle that seemed to shine outside. Sylvania observed in detail these places that she knew well. Not a single corner was spared from the presence of a gadget developed by Oscar, or by tiny automatons with doubtful appearances. Opposite the fireplace was a large coffee table and an even larger red sofa, where Oscar was sitting, cross-legged and looking concentrated. The mayor of Lausya was calmly reading a book entitled "Anger of the World".

    His short salt-and-pepper hair was slightly wavy, lined up in a slicked-back hairdo. A thick beard gracefully surrounded his thin face with lightly tanned skin. He wore gray pants, a white shirt, and a red bow tie. Sensing the presence of the two teenagers, his emerald eyes rolled slowly towards them, without him moving a millimeter himself.

      - Hello sir, let escape Sylvania in a net of voice.

      - Hello young lady. You don't look happy to see me.

      Teano glared at him as his father stood up. He wasn't especially tall, but his demeanor and voice gave him an overwhelming charisma, so that he seemed to be standing on a pedestal that gave him height. He looked at the young people in turn, before he began to walk around the room, hands behind his back, after putting his book on the table. Rather than allow an awkward silence to hang over him, Teano spoke up again.

      - Finally, what would you like to drink? With the help of our butler, I've prepared a few things you might like.

      - It is necessary that I speak to you about something! She launched abruptly.

      - Is it serious?

 -      Annabelle told me that there were pelidus in her house.

      They didn't see him, but Oscar was facing one of the windows in the room. His blood rushed to his throat at the words, and his eyes widened. He rushed toward Sylvania. His figure was like that of a threatening ghost, bending over her to suck her in. Terrified, she did not dare to move and wondered why he reacted like that. His piercing eyes were planted in hers, as if he was trying to read her thoughts.

      - What did you say, young lady? he articulated, almost in a staccato whisper.

      - D-Phelidus. Annabelle told me about it...

      Annoyed, Teano shoved his father with all his might.

      - Give her a break! Annabelle told him that there are pelidus here, that's all! Will you please leave us alone now?

      Oscar grabbed him by the arm, squeezing hard, and then he approached his face, as he had just done with Sylvania, while staring at him. His look was like two sharpened blades that were inserted right in his heart.

 -      Beware Teano Fanghël. Your attitude and your words could well have regrettable consequences.

      For the next five seconds, they continued to stare at each other without blinking. These scenes of strange anger and cold hatred were unfortunately not so rare among the Fanghël. Teano couldn't help but wonder again why his father was so contemptible. He was not only angry, but deeply saddened, and he felt bitter tears welling up inside him, which he did not let out. Oscar pushed him away and let go of his grip, as if he had laid his hand on a disgusting insect.

      - Very well, I have to do! Altimer! Get the car ready, I need you to drive me to Laurence's work. I need to talk to her in person as soon as possible.

      - Yes, Mr. Fanghel," replied Altimer, who was busy in the kitchen.

 He was an eltaq with yellow eyes, very tall and imposing. Teano liked him very much, and he often wondered why such a good and warm man was working for someone as evil as his father. In a few minutes, Oscar left the house with Altimer, leaving Sylvania and Teano alone. They had been standing in the same place. Their eyes met. They breathed loudly and looked up in unison.

 -      I know your dad has some unique behaviors, and that's why he makes me uncomfortable... yet I feel like this was different.

      - It was," confirmed Teano in a faded voice. I'll be right back, I'll get what we've prepared. We need to have a little chat and move on. He's not going to ruin our moment, now that he's gone.

      Alone in the living room, Sylvania began to think in detail. That was already two unusual and consecutive things, but related on top of that. These events could corroborate with one of the reasons why she had come to see Teano that evening. Sitting on the large couch, she crossed her legs, then her hands, which she placed under her chin as a sign of intense reflection. The light was very dimly lit, and the blue glow of systrielle now filled the entire room, giving an almost unreal atmosphere. Silently, Teano went back and forth twice. The first one, with a plate full of cakes filled with glamene syor honey. The second one, with glasses of milk of syor. After that, he put his cell phone on the table, then he launched "Clock" of "Etolica. ».

      - I'm glad you came tonight, I'll feel less lonely," he said, taking a cake.

      - I think there's better company, but I'm still glad you're not alone tonight.

      - Stop talking nonsense. Your company suits me perfectly. Especially after seeing how my father behaves. But then again... you didn't come here to confide in me, did you?

      At these words, Sylvania felt her heart clench, and her heartbeat quickened in her chest. It wasn't much, but she was about to open her mouth and use her voice to express things that, until now, existed only in her mind. It was strange to put words to such feelings, but she went for it.

      - Something is wrong Teano.

      - What do you mean by that?

 - It doesn't make sense, but I feel like something's wrong. I have this feeling of being in danger. All the time.

      - You've always had high anxiety Sylvania, right? It's not a good thing, but I guess...

 -      Teano, I... It's not the same as usual," she added, cutting him off. I'm really worried. The remnants of your father's experiences are becoming fewer and fewer in the city. I hear about important people who disappear in the news. The people of Lausanne have been moving in dribs and drabs since last year. I hear Annabelle telling me that she is hosting some Phelidus at her place and then your father reacts like this when he hears the news! Before leaving the apartment, my mother asked me again if your father would be there, always worried about something she doesn't seem to want to talk about. The more the days go by, the more I feel crushed by the weight of something I can't see.

      She had spoken, raising her voice with each sentence, gesturing and staring at her glass of milk from the beginning to the end of her tirade. A few seconds later, she remained silent and then dipped her cake in the milk before taking a small bite.

      - I know there's a problem, but I don't have anything more tangible to explain it. And I'm afraid. I can't confide in anyone. Except to you. Beyond that, my self-confidence has only gone downhill for weeks. I'm still the same, doing the same things, being praised and perfect. I don't step out of line, I do what is asked of me. I remain neat, clean and wise, without anything, without identity. I feel empty.

      - You are not without identity to me.

      - Teano, for you the whole world is fantastic!

      She did not pay attention, but this remark hurt him slightly. He pretended not to hear and continued to listen to her.

      - That's what everyone likes about you. You radiate and bring joy. But let's face it: who am I interesting to?

      - Malden came over to your house to have you play your compositions for him this afternoon.

      - He admires my hard work, my skills, my well-learned attitude. Who knows who I really am, beyond all that? And even I don't know when I think about it... I feel like a nobody. I'd like to change the world, but I run away from every problem. I spend my life being afraid.

      - I don't agree with you. You change our lives by helping us when you can, Sylvania. I'm not trying to tell you that you're wrong to feel this way. These are slightly complicated times for everyone. We all have our reasons. I wouldn't blame you for that. Take the time you need to talk and find yourself. But neither I nor anyone else sees you as anyone else. That's wrong, very wrong.

      She had talked enough for now. Time continued to pass for a few minutes, when she and Teano took a few more cakes and ate them in silence.

 -      You're the only one who comes to me about this kind of thing.

      - You speak about an originality, she persifla by laughing. It won't always be enough to not end up alone and useless. And even less to change things... I am really afraid that one day, you will be really tired of me.

      Without warning, Teano grabbed one of her cakes and threw it in her face. She was startled and found herself full of crumbs, with a little honey in a few places. Sylvania looked up at Teano, gawking, before throwing a cake back at her.

 - But what are you doing? she asked, laughing harder.

      - I'm punishing you for the bullshit you say in front of me! "Getting tired of me" no but do you hear yourself? If you need to be reassured every day, then I'll do it, but it bothers me to hear you say that. I don't want to change the subject, but what you told me earlier worries me a little.

      - The Pelidus ?

      - Yes, but also these anxieties. This fear that something will happen. I've noticed that my father's attitude has changed recently, as has my mother. You know, my parents don't talk to me much, and that's good when I see what we share. But even with this distance, I can see that something is wrong.

      Sylvania's attention was redoubled when she heard her friend's words. She plunged her eyes into his, listening attentively to what was going to follow.

 -      He spends a lot of time in his office. He and my mom talk for hours and do more and more weird experiments. I think they even got hurt not too long ago. I don't know what they're doing, but I think it's kind of weird too. I didn't want to talk about it, but with what you're telling me...

      - Do you think you could go into his office?

      Teano hiccupped in surprise at these words. He raised his eyebrows and recoiled violently. He then shook his head very quickly in denial.

 -      Are you crazy or what? You want me to get killed? I tried that when I was smaller, by accident. He hit me and punished me with everything for weeks!

      - If it's that risky, maybe it's better to avoid... I don't know if it's related to everything I'm imagining. Also, to get back on topic, Annabelle definitely wants to meet at her house as soon as possible about the Pelidus.

      - But why?

      - I don't know, that's what she told me.

      - When would be the best time in your opinion?

      Sylvania thought of proposing that they meet at her house tomorrow, but she didn't know if the others would be available. It was the same for Teano. However, since Annabelle seemed to want to see them as soon as possible, it must be really important. Sylvania stood up suddenly and started pacing, hands clasped behind her back. She began to murmur incomprehensible sentences, relating to her intense reflection for this problem to be solved. Suddenly she turned to Teano with a determined look.

      - Send a message to Renyu, Sara, Kieran and Malden.

      - What do you want me to tell them?

      - Ask them if they are available for tonight.

      - What? But it's impossible. Even for me it's tense! What about your mother? She'll be worried!

      - I think we're going to have to get over our fears this time. I'm exhausted from following my organization to the millimeter. Right after you, I have the strictest education and I'm ready to brave it. If I can do it, anyone can!

      He did not answer immediately, but continued to stare at her. Teano had never heard Sylvania speak like this. The only things the girl was able to oppose were animal abuse and the deterioration of natural environments by actively participating in debates on social networks. She would never have dared to confront her mother before. She would never have allowed herself such escapades. Even worse: Sylvania would never have listened to inner premonitions. That was not what she had been taught to do. It was always out of the question to do things differently, and to deviate from the routine. Yet tonight she was taking a vow of rebellion.

      - What if they really can't? Teano asked.

      - With two of us, we will be able to convince them.

      - But we need a plan, and Renyu is in charge of that in general time.

      - And that's why you send him the first message. He's the one who convinces Sara most easily when it comes to doing something. Then Kieran will be obliged to follow his sister if she asks him to, and...

      - And Malden will want to spend time with Kieran. Knowing that we'll all be together will make him want to come.

 - Exactly!

      They wasted no time in getting down to work. Teano wasn't worried about the time they had, because Laurence's work was far from home. His father wouldn't be back for a while. So, rather than sending a message, he called Renyu directly on his phone. He picked up after three calls.

      - Yeah? He replied in a dull voice.

      - I'm with Sylvania, I need to ask you something.

      - Is it? Oh, I hope it's a "How do I not bother my friends when they've already made it clear to me with two no answers, that they're busy" question. Because I have a really good answer for that. Something quick, clean and concise.

      - Renyu, we have to go to Annabelle's tonight, everyone. It's urgent.

      - Is this a joke? You're bothering me while I'm doing research on Kannidus and on top of that you're telling me we're going to Annabelle's? You smoked Nanthilia with Kieran, didn't you ?

      - Annabelle has Pelidus at home.

 -      Okay, you really smoked some Nanthilia. Don't come to my house tonight. Bye.

      - Renyu! Teano insisted. I'm very serious. We have to meet there as soon as possible. Sylvania will tell Annabelle that we're coming tonight.

 -      Wait... Are you telling me that Sylvania is going on a night out?

      Since Teano had put the phone on speaker, Sylvania heard him burst out laughing.

 -      Hey, are you sure she's not going to get like, cut off her head or grounded from piano for seven months because she came home at 9:10 instead of 9:09?

      - Sylvania is with me and she hears you.

      - Oh great then! Sylvania, you're not going to be broken up doing such stupid things ? What's your idea for tonight? Have you decided to become a normal person and to go a little bit beyond the limits?

      Sylvania slumped on the sofa and took her face in her hands, dejected. She knew he was going to tease her for that.

      - If you want to know everything, it's even my idea. So yes, I...

      - Don't bother. I hope this isn't a joke, because this is a really classy thing to do. I don't care if everybody's here or not. If there's some Pelidus involved, something amazing, something to discover for our village, then I'll be there. However, if I ever find out that it was a bad joke, I never want to hear from you again. Do I make myself clear?

      They nodded and let him continue. Teano asked him more about how to convince Sarasvati, his brother and Malden. All right, they discussed some strategies, after which Renyu left for a few minutes to make the most viable synthesis he could think of. When he returned, he spoke again.

      - Perfect. Sylvania, you should go home right now. Even though you're pumped up, I think you should go reassure your mom and let her sleep it off before you leave. If you don't, there's a good chance she'll show up at Annabelle's, and an even better chance she'll cut your head off in front of us. And I don't want to get your blood on my face. You'll sneak back home when the time is right. As for you Teano, join me as soon as possible. We'll go back together. In the meantime, I'll make a call to Sara. I will be able to convince her, I have all my arguments in mind. For Kieran, well, I'll find something, even if it's my weak point. Same with Malden. Let me worry about that, but do what I tell you. Now.

      He hung up immediately. Sylvania and Teano waited a few seconds before getting back into action. She grabbed her coat in a hurry before putting it on and removing the remaining crumbs she still had on her.

      - We have to hurry. And call Annabelle to tell her we're coming! Be careful when you have to leave, that your mother doesn't hear you.

      - Yes, I will do my best. I'll see you later!

      Slight clumsiness on her part. Sylvania spilled the rest of the two glasses of milk on the table before leaving. When she realized it, she put her hands to her mouth and looked at Teano with confusion.