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a-writing-bear · 6 years ago

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[PruCan] Chapter 9: Soft-Spoken Calling, They Want Their Shyness Back

Ao3 Link:

https://archiveofourown.org/works/11159997/chapters/42689768

This Has been cross-posted onto FF & Ao3 under Aliases: BearBooper

You can read this Fic on Tumblr under ‘Keep Reading’ - Ao3 version is formatted, tumblr version is not. Ao3 is recommended.

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Fandom: Hetalia Axis Powers

Main Pairing: Gilbert Beilschmidt & Matthew Williams (Prussia & Canada)

AU: College AU - Art Student Matthew and Media/Film Student Gilbert

Age Rating/Mature: Teen And Up Audiences (12+ due to mentions of mature themes as well as swearing)

Trigger Warnings: Recreational Drugs & minor connotations of anxiety (Future addiction to mention themes such as addiction, rape etc.) WITHIN THIS CHAPTER - Mentions of Depression, Anxiety, Therapy, Counseling, and anti-depressants. (please note I am NOT anti-meds.) Family Issues are implied, Distance and abandonment suggested.

The world stiffened as strawberry blonde hair covered his tired eyes, Alfred had scooted much farther away as he let his brother gather himself. Racing, pulsing thoughts jumped in his head; everything felt slow and too fast at the same time and the unease of having someone else in this private session was more off-putting than he would have thought.

“I….I didn’t finish the painting.” Ms Paisley’s demure look did not falter, unsurprised but still polite, her scribbles of notes were no doubt some follow up questions about his inability to get something done- he felt foolish for bringing it up, his subconscious already tormenting him about his inadequacy to shush up. His brother, on the other hand, was lost; What does a painting have to do with Matthew’s health?

“What was it this time Matthew? ...noise? … distractions?” her voice trailed on but Alfred’s mind was hooked on her reasoning-

“Not noise this time. I was quite...fine. I was fine- I just can’t get it to look right and I feel…” He mind was smoothened a little bit as he tried to articulate his thoughts. Fiddly hands kept tracing the hemming of his hoodie edges, eyes strictly avoiding his brother’s questioning gaze.

“Lost. I felt like I was detached again. I couldn’t get it right and It’s just so difficult to stay up…” Closed eyes and uncertain breath faded into a hum, he almost forgot Alfred was there as he thought of the image of his childhood. Bright. Vibrant. Utterly simplistic in its approach.

“I’m on top of work. But that just means I sleep more... I'm tired. Very tired. I know I say that a lot but I am. It’s just so-” his voice breaks off into a bit of a laugh as he grimaces at his repetitious mantra, “I’m exhausted, Paisley.” He bites his lips; he’s been trying to get out of the habit of saying tired. The word was so addictingly bittersweet and had glossed over his lips so often that the definition of such a word had practically been imprinted into his personality. Dr Paisley looked up as Alfred patted a hand onto his knee, the gesture making the male almost jump as his eyes popped finally realising his brother was still in the room.

“Well. I’m sure the painting will turn out beautifully- Have you shown anyone your work, has Al-”

“It’s a surprise! It’s...not ready and I don’t want Alfred to be spoilt” The interruption let out another hiccup as Matthew slid his back down the couch, his head almost lolling straight into the couch’s depths.

“Okay. I think you should have some downtime while I Just chat with your brother, would that be possible Matthew?” He slowly got up, feeling ashamed for his messy rambling and eager to leave the room. “John could get you some tea while you wait..” the remnants of that sentence was lost on Matthew as he had already made his way out back into the little room from before.

“Hi Alfred, Long time no see, How have you been?”

“Alright, Uni is exciting as always...can we just get to the reason why I’m here? Matthew-- My brother says you want him on more medication?”

“Yes. He hasn’t been on anything for a while, and he’s made a lot of progress but recently...He’s been having trouble with our recent goals, and I don’t want to worry any of you and your family. From a professional standpoint, I would recommend this as it would help him just balance out his anxiety. He hasn’t been on much for a while now.”

“I trust you doc, but I’m still worried. He’s been kind of...really secretive I guess?

“How so? He’s told me he’s been chatting and unloading a lot on peop-”

“Well, obviously not me. Not..me. We don’t go out anymore, he always liked to sleep in but some days I have to genuinely bash his door down to get him up. It’s...a slump.”

Dr Paisley sighed, a knowing glint in her eye as she listened to the wistful way Alfred talk about his brother- knowing of what?

“Look. Mr Jones, I need to know if you’re planning on any big life changes.” Alfred seized up, caught off guard by the question, almost nervous of his own answer- “It’s just that Matthew right now needs some extra support, we’re assuming he’s just in a bit of a drop right now...he goes through it once…” her voice seemed to trail off as Alfred and his ever calculative brain were in the works of what to say: tell the truth or to wait for a better moment? Surely he could put off telling Matthew of his...no if he told the doctor now he could avoid a confrontation from his family later on…

“-Would moving away count as something big?” the professional paused in her sentence, concern out and open.

“Who would be moving?” Alfred explained his new course offer from some prestigious lab in Japan, the willingness he had to go there and the excitement was clear but the more he explained he had begun thinking of how’ll it affect his brother.

“...we spent enough time apart as kids. Last time really fucked him up and I just don’t...he lost trust in me and that’s okay I just... I- what if this is the thing that really...pushes it?”

The two stared at each other for a few seconds, both deep in thought before the doctor gave her insight: “Your brother will be fine. He wants you to live your life. He just needs time to know what’s going on. He needs to talk more. Do you know anyone he could talk to while you’re away?” There was Tim, their childhood friend of whom Mattie had always been attached to; the Dutchman always came to Matthew’s heed and Mattie always complied with the scarf-wearing weirdo. Alfred drifted, he had that new German guy, right? He never really liked Gilbert, always saw him at some trashy party- he was so different from Matthew, it would be difficult for his brother to open up to someone like that…

“Besides Tim, there’s this new guy. I think Matt would tell you about him. I don’t really trust the guy.” before the doc could synthesise a plan Matthew had knocked on the door rather meekly, sticking that fluff of a hairdo through the door and asking if he could back in.

“Of course. Matthew, your brother and I are okay with our new goals, would you like to go through with it?” the young man barely nodded, still in the doorway, leaning a bit off the frame as his eyes wandered in Alfred’s direction as if still asking if he could come in. Alfred got up, shaking off imaginary dust and he made his way out, ruffling his twin brother’s hair as they swapped places. He’d have time to think about what he wanted to tell him while he waited.

“I’m really sorry we can’t have our full 1 hour Matthew, Is there anything you’d like to talk about in particular today?” Matthew had cosied up on the chair, crossing his legs as he used to as a kid- Dr paisley had reassured him no harm would be done to her soft plush couch even if he brought his foot upon it.

“I’m just tired is all.” he had started picking at the seat fibres once more, his glasses sort of slipping off as he pressed the couch experimentally. “I understand, Alfred said you made a new friend? Wanna chat about that?” At first, Matthew was puzzled, confused as to who she had meant before realising that she probably referred to Gilbert.

“Oh. Gilbert. He’s...cool. I don’t want to talk about him. Do I ha-”

“You don’t have to do anything Matthew. This is about you.”

Matthew relayed his story about going to see Tim (minus the weed of course), how he had overstepped Tim’s boundaries once more by accident, ranting way too long and not getting anything done when he could have been doing something, anything, he never gets things done, why can’t i get things done, it’s impossi-

“Matt- Matthew breathe. Hey, hey slow down. You were taking a break right?” Matthew gulped. He didn’t realise he had been mumbling incessantly again. “I don’t think you overstepped. I’m sure Tim would have said something if you did. He’s been your...friend for a long time.” the blonde nodded, awkward to where this was going.

“Do you...pardon me if this seems inconceivable or rude...do you have feelings for Tim?” Matthew looked at her as if she had slapped him in the face-

“nO! OH Nonono- Tim’s my… he’s just a really...good friend, I couldn’t...I like someone else... I think?” his mind drifted to a pearly white smile and red eyes that really should be more intimidating than attractive. God. Gilbert’s got him good and it’s hardly been a day. He needs to stop. Paisley just smiled that ever kind smile, and it kinda sickened Matthew knowing at the end of the day she was paid to smile like that regardless of what he said to her. The rationale in his head reminded him she was genuine and that this was a good experience- counselling was better than hiding in a room getting high off his rock...that sounds more enjoyable at this point. The two chatted, Matthew once more relearning his breathing, noting to himself to write in his personal log once he gets home to keep the doc and himself on check.

“I’ll see you next Saturday? Afternoon at 1pm. 1 hour for sure Matthew.” with that the two parted, Matthew, worming his way out of the office and straight to the registering counter, prescription form in hand. Alfred had signed it. So had he. He’d have to pick them up tomorrow. Fuck me.

The two twins waddled back out, getting into their car and driving to their little detour: the diner just off campus. “Ahh loving the shoddy lights as usual,” Alfred commented as they got out the car and saw the overdone and tacky 60s light decor falter. Sliding into the opposite sides of a booth, the two sat in silence, obviously avoiding conversing about what was talked about during Matthew’s appointment. Or so Matthew hoped.

“So doc tells me ‘bout a painting.” Liar. Matthew knows Paisley wouldn’t have told him jack shit about that painting. “It’s nothing. It’s a surprise, Al, don’t go sticking your nose into my art and I won't question your phall-” Alfred burst out laughing before Matthew could finish his joke, he supposed seeing his brother laugh did brighten his moods. The waiter, dressed in a stereotypical apron, brought over some coffee (“it’s not Tim Hortons, but it’ll do”) and Alfred waved her off to get some burgers with a ‘thank you doll’ that only resulted in a tut. They talked about Alfred’s course and how his lab work was going, Matthew, in turn, talked about the next hockey season and how’d he hope he would get back on the team after his hiatus. Parents. They talked about their parents- neither of whom had called. Their father, ever the distant soul, last they heard, was back in London sorting out some legal case and hadn’t even texted Alfred the usual monthly check-in text. Matthew grimaced. If he didn’t even text Alfred...then he must still be mad about the two of them going to see mother last summer. The coffee was burnt and bitter, and this dinner was as rugged and worn out as Matthew’s weary soul, yet he couldn’t help feel comforted by the fact his brother was still here and not painstakingly somewhere ignoring him. Matthew hated being ignored.

*DING*

T @ 7:34 [Are you at the Diner? I see an oddly familiar car out here.]

Of course, Tim was here.

M @ 7:34 [Yeah Al’s here though. Just came back from Dr.P’s. Wanna join dinner time?]

T @ 7:36 [I’ve got Laura and Luca with me, I’m sure they’d love to catch up with your bro. Though you wanna chat out back for a bit?]

Matthew paused. Looked away from his phone to see Alfred once more chatting with a waitress, idly stacking up some creamer cups.

M @ 7:38 [Your sister would smell the shit on us. Tell the L duo to come in and I’ll come out.]

T @ 7:39 [I’ve got deo and we can blame it on smokers outside. They’re going.]

“The Van-de-bergs are here. I’m gonna go out just to chat with Tim for a bit. Please don’t hit on Laura again- Tim will murder you and I’ll tell Kiku.” Matthew got up quickly, making his way very quickly as his brother tried responding with a resounding “I’m not that big of a flirt-” Laura and little brother Luca in tow came bursting in, gladly waving at Matt as they made their way to the table.

“Tim says you two need to chat so he’s-”

“Outside.” Matthew pushed his way past them out the door. He’s not usually so dismissive of the kind girl but he wanted to get away from some of the noise for a bit. A smoke really sounded good right then. The air seemed nippy as he stumbled into the evening light. The fuzzy streetlights illuminated the tall figure that was Tim leaning on his car. With a head flick and a motion, the two moved, trekking to a dodgy avoided spot right behind the diner; smoker paradise as cigarette buds were littered across the gravelled area.

“..I’m assuming shit didn’t go well.” Matthew denied answering because he himself didn’t really know. Today went well. He just didn’t feel it.

“Well. Let’s chat then schatje.”

Gilbert had enjoyed Matthew’s empty bedroom for a while. But he found, no matter how charming the walls were and the strewn pieces of art- as captivating as they were, felt strange without Matthew actually being there. He had gotten out, leaving the room as immaculate as it did when he had first gotten in and wondered where the North American brothers had gone. Oh well. His work had occupied him for as long as he needed, and by dinner time he was truly starving. With his, worn out jeans and leather jacket snugly on, and his motorbike keys pocketed he decided he’d go off campus and get some takeaway. The food hall seemed a bit too dull for a Saturday night lunch right? And nothing was better than hunkering down on some takeaway and calling it a night early. With a resounding roar, his bike came to life, driving him down the quiet nighttime roads, running away from the campus that seemed to be riddled with late-night students wandering all over the place.

Unlike Alfred, Gilbert unironically liked the 60s vibe that the diner had possessed. It reminded him of his Grandfather who always liked the middle of nowhere businesses and of Ludwig and his avoidance of less than stellar looking establishments. The food was fantastic too and always made good 24/7 pancakes. Gilbert wouldn’t mind pancakes for dinner, he could get them half price if he sweetened that lady over the counter again. Just as he pulled up, and was busy stowing his helmet away he saw a familiar person walking behind the restaurant- Matthew. Matthew with someone most definitely wasn’t Alfred. I thought he said he was with his brother. Gilbert scolded himself...it’s none of his business. For all he knew Alfred was there too...behind the diner...where cute Matthew was walking with a shady looking tall dude. Yeah, not awesome. Gilbert began walking.

He’s just making sure his new friend Matt was safe. A good samaritan keeping someone safe. Gilbert's inner voice was spouting bullshit.

#prucan #APH Canada #APH Prussia #SoftSpokenCalling #prussia x canada #hetalia #hetalia axis powers #Axis Powers Hetalia #Hetalia Fanfiction #hetalia fanfics #hetalia fandom #fanfiction #fanfic #Multichapter

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pjdredful · 6 years ago

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The AV Club

Chapter 6

"Hi there Evie, I didn't know you had a morning appoint today." I smile briefly at Sandra the receptionist as I sign in to the log book.

"I don't I was just hoping I could talk to Tony for a second. I guess I should have called. He might have a client or something." Sandra turns and pulls up the daily schedule for all the therapists that have an office on this floor. She makes a tutting sound as she scrolls through the list of names.

"He usually takes his first about an hour after he arrives. Tony likes to take his time to get settled in the morning." There's another soft tut tut sound and then she turns back to me with a wider smile. "He's clear for another half hour. Do you want take a seat and I'll let him know you're here?"

I nod at that and offer her a smile of thanks before picking my favorite spot under the fake ficus in the corner. I'm sitting here chewing on my fingernail not really focusing on anything yet hyper aware of the rectangular outline of my mom's journal in the front zip pouch of my messenger bag. Hyper aware of every tick and click of the too cold air conditioner. Hyper aware of the not so covert glances from another patient waiting to be seen. I look away from my dead stare at the wall to the guy in the corner. He looks away quickly and in that second I could swear I see a hint of shadow around him. I blink but the light changes as someone walks in the door from outside. The brightness blinds me for a second and when my vision clears there's no longer a shadow. I look away with a slightly confused, frown and pick up my phone just to give myself something to do while I wait for Tony.

I don't have long to wait because the inner door to the hall opens and Tony pokes his head out. "Evie…I'm surprised. Your appointment isn't until this afternoon." It was a gamble coming here before school but I've been stewing all weekend with the knowledge that Tony may have known my mom. I stop chewing my nail and untuck my leg from under me. "Everything okay?" Is it? I'm not entirely sure how to answer that so I shrug.

"Sorry I just dropped by, I didn't know if you had a client or something…"

"I always have time for you." He says it so pleasantly as if I didn't throw a tantrum and storm off the last time I was here. I take the time to tuck my phone away in to my messenger bag before standing and walking through the door to his office. I can feel eyes on me and I can see that guy watching me as the closes between us. Weirdo. "Can I get you something? Water or tea?" I cut him an annoyed look and move to stand in the middle of the office debating how I want to approach things.

"Some answers would be nice."

Tony's amicable smile fades a little at that. He closes the door and strides a few steps in, standing in front of me with his hands behind his back. "Alright, I can see you want to get right to things. What do you want to know."

"Did you treat my mother?" I have to know the answer to this because everything hinges on what he says to me right now. I can tell that he doesn't quite want to answer but he straightens his back with a deep breath. I don't know why I've never noticed how tall he is before. I guess I never noticed much of anything about him but I take it all in while I wait. He's got wiry strength to him that I can see despite the blazer and chinos. Hm. Interesting.

"Yes and no." I stop trying to guess his age based on deep crow's feet at the corner of his eyes and look directly at him. I am not in the mood for games right now and the answer he just gave me is a hair to close to playing. "That is to say I didn't work for Knollwood but I did spend some time working with her at the facility."

This brings up so many more questions and I don't know which one to ask first and which to let go of for another time. Luckily it's not like Warrow, I don't have a question limit. I could spend the whole session questioning him and probably he'd answer me. As long as I don't find out something that will make me storm off before I get the answers I really want. Which could be a problem. Mom always did say I had my father's short temper. "If you didn't work for Knollwood how did you even know who my mom was?"

"The truth is I knew your mom from a long time back." Oh I want to punch him. Right in the junk. I can feel my face going red but this time it's not from embarrassment it's from anger. "Look, Evie, maybe we should sit down, we have so much to talk about."

I'm still debating physical violence but I turn on my heel and flop angrily on to the couch. Tony watches me warily as I cross my arms over my chest and glare. He takes his time sitting down, giving himself a few minutes to sort his words. "You knew her. You knew who she was, you had her things, and you didn't tell me. You acted like…she was just a distant relative, not a real figure in my life." I haven't started to raise my voice. Yet. But the strain of keeping it in shows in the way I have to clear my throat. "Why?"

He leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees. Tony looks at his interlocked fingers and swallows thickly. "I didn't tell you because I knew you would think it was unethical if you didn't trust me first." Well pretty much I'm going to think it's unethical anyway but it's interesting that he was intentionally trying to garner my trust. As if that would somehow make it all better. Why does every one think that lying to me is the best way to get me to trust them?? "Evie you have to understand, I never meant to upset you but, given your mom's situation I thought it best to find a place in your life before speaking with you about my involvement with her."

"Given her situation?" I uncross my arms and lean forward myself. "And which situation would that be?" The one where she was chosen to see the things that move in this world beneath the surface of humanity? Or the one where her own husband kept her from her daughter because she couldn't control the power swirling inside of her? And what does that even mean? Find a place in my life?

Tony leans back almost as if he doesn't like being in striking range. "Her Beacon situation."

This time I leap to my feet and move in close, towering over his seated form in all my five foot glory. "You did not just say that to me." I want to…I want to…I don't know what I want to do! Punching and slapping him about the head and face doesn't seem like a rational action choice even if it would feel really good. I'm shaking as I lean forward a little more, intent on getting right in his face but my mother's rune medallion slips out of my shirt and hangs between us. "You bast…" For a second I think it's just the way I'm standing but it's swinging wildly back and forth around my neck as if it's trying to reach out to Tony and it startles me enough into trailing off my rant.

"Kenaz…" What? I look sharply from the necklace to Tony. He takes a deep breath and opens the top two buttons of his shirt. A silver chain spills out, and a small nearly identical medallion to my mom's hangs in the air straining toward mine. I reach out and catch mine in my hand, jerking back a few steps. Tony's medallion drops limply to his chest and with a sickening realization I understand Warrow's cryptic remark.

"Oh…my…God. You're the Guardian…you were her Guardian!" I point at him but that doesn't seem like enough of a punctuation to my epiphany. "You're the reason my mom lost her mind!" Tony stands and takes a few steps away, rubbing his chin as he paces a bit. It's very different from the ever patient therapist that's been waiting months for me to talk to him. God it all makes so much sense now.

"Yes. Yes Evie I was her…Guardian. I'm sorry I didn't tell you but I had to know if you understood, I wasn't sure if you knew what you were, what you're capable of."

"Are you KIDDING ME?!" This time I lose control of my voice, the last part coming out a little more squeaky than forceful. "You sat here and waited for me to tell you all my secrets so you could what? Decide to stop lying to me? What kind of jacked up sense does that make?"

"Apparently no kind of good sense at all. Look Evie, I am so very sorry it happened this way…" No. I'm not hearing this.

"No you don't get to just say sorry like it's going to be okay!" I turn my back on him wondering what the hell just happened. I've never seen anything metal move like that unless magnets were involved. I look at the rune still trapped in my hand, tracing it's lines with my thumb. "You broke your bond to my mom, and I don't exactly know what it means but I know whatever you did broke her. And she went crazy because of you. You, Tony."

"I know. It's…really complicated Evie. There are just so many things…" He sounds tired and I turn back towards him, watching warily. I obviously can't trust anything that comes out of his mouth.

"Uncomplicate it." He gives me a resigned nod and moves to lean against the edge of his desk. Tony loosely crosses his arms over his chest, almost mimicking my posture.

"I first met your mom when my family moved in across the street from hers. I was just a boy. Ten years old I think. I thought Julia was the prettiest girl in the whole world." He smiles at the memory and I frown even deeper. "We got along like gangbusters but then we were supposed to." Something in his posture changes letting me know that he's unhappy with the memory of that knowledge. "We were friends almost instantly, going to school together and all. I always liked your mom, Evie. She was nice, really nice not fake nice, and her smile could light up a room." Literally even, apparently.

I remember her smile too though. When mom smiled, everyone smiled with her even if they didn't intend to. She had a way of disarming even the angriest of people with that smile. I shift uncomfortably from foot to foot wishing I wasn't too stubborn to go sit back down. "When did she…" Light up? No I don't want to say that out loud. That would sound weird and too close of an admission of it happening to me.

"Become a Beacon?" I nod and he huffs a little in thought. "Not until she was about sixteen. Boy did it ever scare her at first. It scared us both." So he was there. He was with my mom when she became a Beacon. "I imagine it must have been scary for you too." I stiffen at that but nod once in affirmation.

"How'd you know?"

He points to my mom's necklace. "I wear the mate to that necklace. This…is Algiz. It means protector. They wouldn't have reacted like that if you were normal." Oh thank you. Very very much. I roll my eyes at him.

"Fantastic. Even my therapist thinks I'm abnormal. Go on." I gesture impatiently for him to continue because I really don't want him to get distracted from telling me what I've needed to know for so long. And really, what can he say? I didn't mean it like that? Yeah he totally did. Because the truth is, I AM abnormal.

"I was born to protect her but even if I hadn't been I would have vowed to do it anyway. That's how much I cared about your mom." I start to ask why he left but he forestalls me with a raised hand. "It's best if I just tell you what I know now, while you're willing to listen. There are things I have to say that may…" Tony struggles for a word and finally settles with a tip of his head. "upset you."

Alright I'm willing to hold my questions until the end. If I manage not to storm out before then. Reluctantly I slump back against a wall in a more comfortable position. Sitting just seems too vulnerable and I really don't want to be in the place of a patient right now. "Fine, I'm listening."

He nods and taps his thumbs idly on the edge of the desk he's propped on. "When man first rose to being, this world was inhabited by creatures of darkness and shadow both seen and unseen. Demons, malevolent spirits, perverse creatures and abominations so beset man that the heavens were filled with the pleas and prayers of desperate humans. The god of vision and light was so plagued by the desperation of man that he descended to this earth to see for himself what was happening. The human race it seems was on the verge of extinction."

Well that's an uncomfortable thought. I guess now that he's explaining I can see why he wanted me to wait before asking questions. "And yet we survived. Like cockroaches."

He gives me a short chuckle and nods a bit. "I guess we have." This doesn't mean everything is cool. It just means I'm choosing to put my anger away for the moment so I can hear him out. I think he understands that because he doesn't linger on the topic but continues on. "Though perhaps we survived because of divine intervention. Although he couldn't stay in this realm without risking becoming mortal himself the god of light wanted to leave humanity a secret weapon. A way to fight back against the multitudes of otherworldly beings. His children grew to be Beacons, to see with a god's divinity into the dark."

Wait. Hold up. "So…this light god decided to just run around knocking girls up?" Tony makes a gesture I can't interpret and shrugs.

"Well I'm sure he'd consider it blessing them but basically, yes."

Only a man would consider that "blessing" a woman. I give him a mild look and shake my head. "Does this horny light god have a name?"

Tony scoffs softly and shakes his head. "Some have called him Zeus, others Magec, Huitzilopochtli, Ra or Yaweh but really those are only but some of his names. He is far older than that, and much more eternal than any myth. As evidenced by the fact that in the here and now a Beacon still shines before us."

Right. So basically he's been a god in every pantheon. Fantastic. "And the Guardians? How do you play in to that?" He shrugs a bit at that and moves to stand away from the desk.

"When man realized what gift had been left them a fellowship was formed to protect the Beacons. Generation after generation each Beacon found themselves partnered to a Guardian. The magic of such a strong partnership eventually creates a bond. It links the Guardian to the Beacon's power. Our bond allowed me to do amazing things for your mom. I could find her anywhere even if she didn't know where she was, and I always knew when she was in trouble. As a bonded pair her power flowed through me like it was a part of me."

I don't like the look on his face. It's a mix of shame and longing and it makes me feel a little weird. "What do you mean her power flowed through you?"

"I mean that her power made me faster, stronger, and better than any human has a right to be. And it was intoxicating. Addicting even." I narrow my eyes but he doesn't look away this time. "Power like that can change a person, and it did. I changed and not for the better. I was young and stupid and I let the power ride me too often, even when I didn't need to."

"I don't suppose there was magic rehab you could have gone to, was there?"

He shakes his head no at that. "No. Eventually my addiction got so bad that I started doing things…wrong things. Just to feel normal again. And…because I could." I'm not entirely sure I want to know what those wrong things are. Especially if they involved my mother. "The only way to save myself was to get as far away as I could from the source of my addiction."

My mom. "She couldn't handle it without you." He nods slowly at that and lowers his head.

"We didn't know that Evie. Your mom wanted to protect me as much as I wanted to protect her. She asked me to go. Begged actually." I can see from the haunted look in his eyes that he regrets ever being in a place where that choice had to be made. I can see it in the slow, shallow breaths he's concentrating on so hard to maintain. It reminds me of the saying that still waters run deep for some reason.

"Why didn't you just come back when you were better?"

Tony idly scratches the spot just behind his ear looking both shifty and embarrassed at the same time. "I did but…well a lot of years had passed. We hadn't spoken in almost a decade and when I came back things were different. She was happy. I couldn't risk messing that up for her so I left again."

I blink at that trying to process it. "Wait, you mean you came back and she wasn't in Knollwood yet? And you…you didn't try to help her?"

"I loved her Evie. With everything I was. I couldn't see her with…your dad." I push off the wall and get closer to him again. Tony slides his hands in to his pockets and I'm fighting back the urge to cry. "I didn't know what would happen if I stayed away. I didn't know she'd…"

"You selfish son of a bitch." He pretty much ruined her life, and mine, and my father's. I can't imagine that my dad would let him anywhere near me if he had known who Tony was. I'm not entirely sure I want him anywhere near me either at the moment. At least he isn't trying to argue it. "So what? You thought you could come back and make up for everything by stalking me?"

Tony looks up at me quickly but I'm already shaking my head and heading for the door. I still have a million and three questions but right now I can't think of any that matter much. "Evie please, wait…let me help you. There are things you still don't know. I can help you control your power."

I stop at the door and turn to glance at him over my shoulder. "I can't right now." The knob twists in my hand and I open the door, stopping as I step through to stare at him. "You could have saved her. But you only saved yourself." I shut the door behind me with a quiet click. I know there is no way I can ever trust him. First because it was way too easy to lie to me and secondly because he thought about himself before my mom. I get that he had to go away because he was abusing the power. I understand that and I don't fault it. But. He could have been there for my mom when he was better and he chose not to.

My feet lead me past the reception desk. I wave and try for a slight smile for Sandra but shadow catches the corner of my eye and I glance quickly at her face. For a second I could have sworn I saw a shadowy shape superimposed over hers but it must have been my mind playing tricks on me. She gives me a rather stiff smile and watches me walk out of the office. That was just plain weird. It's not the first time it's happened since I lit up like a Christmas tree and I've been able to dismiss it as an optical illusion or trick of the light but I can't help but think about what I saw when I looked at Warrow.

A trickle of anxiety runs through me and I glance back at the frosted glass door in time to see a plump shadow move behind it. Okay. Not cool. I don't really want to turn my back to the office door now so I lean against the light post and dig my phone out of my bag. I can just hear the bus pulling up to the stop and know I'll never make it in time. Without really looking away from the door I dial Mo and wait for him to pick up.

"Hey Evie. What's up?"

"Hey can you pick me up from Tony's?"

"Sure, we're just leaving the house now. Everything okay?"

Most definitely not. I start walking away from the front of the offices, toward the busy intersection because I'd rather be around people right now. "Kinda sorta. I missed the bus and…" I trail off again when I notice the guy from the waiting room watching me from the shade of the building. My head gives a nasty throb as I turn away from him and whisper in to the phone urgently. "I think I have a bogey on my tail, Goose."

It's our code for I think I'm in trouble. Of course now that I think about it, it does seem a little transparent. I blame Nat and his Top Gun obsession.

"Holy shit…hey, Nat…c'mon we gotta go. Hold on Evie, we'll be right there." Good. Because I'm pretty sure that guy is still staring at the back of my head. I hang up but keep the phone in my hand shifting my position so that I can keep a subtle eye on him even as he's scoping me out. I can't see his eyes behind the sunglasses he's wearing but he doesn't look that much older than me. It's hard to tell because of the scruffy beard but he can't be more than five years my senior. He has a rangy build and what features I can see look vaguely familiar but I know I've never seen him before today. I wonder what he wants. And just as I think it, he steps forward in to the sunlight, still a good thirty feet from me.

I glance up quickly at the movement but he looks totally unconcerned. As if he were standing there for some other reason besides following me around. Just to be safe I move a few steps away and push the crosswalk button. I give it another impatient jab with my thumb when the guy moves another few feet closer making my stomach churn. If he gets any closer the sick feeling in my gut might make me puke and I'd be helpless. The upside to that is that no one I know, demon, human or otherwise wants to be puked on. So that might buy me some time. He wavers where he is, his head going down a little as he watches me over the rims of his sunglasses. It's more than a little creepy and predatory and something about the movement makes me really look at him.

A second ticks by and I feel the wind pick up around me as my focus becomes sharper and narrow taking in only the guy's figure. Shadow rolls around him even as he stands in the full light of the sun but I don't blink and I don't turn away this time. I stand and watch it spread from his chest, enveloping his head in the shape of a dog. No. Something smaller. More like a fox than a dog. The fact that I can see him must show on my face because he takes a wary step back. I follow his movement, never taking my eyes off him, my hands balling in to fists. I start to take a step forward but a car pulls to a stop behind me, brakes grinding loudly enough to break my concentration. In that second he's gone, running along the side of the building and down an alley way before I can chase him.

Although I don't even know why I would run TOWARD certain danger. I'm usually running away from it. I watch the space he filled for a second before climbing in to the back of the car. "Hey Evie, you okay? Who was that guy? Holy…it's happening again…"

I look up at the alarm in Nat's voice, catching my reflection in the rearview mirror. Oh crap. I thought wearing this necklace was supposed to stop that from happening, clearly I was wrong. "Just go, I want to get out of here."

Mo doesn't argue he just pulls away from the curb, glancing back at me now and again as he drives. I slink down in the seat and close my eyes, trying to breathe normally.

"Should we go to the clubhouse?" I shake my head no, eyes still closed. I would love to ditch but I know that I shouldn't. My dad would kill me if he found out I was ditching. It'd be one more thing in the ever growing list of things that make Evie a problem child.

"Can't, I have a biology test today. Besides if I ditch with you guys my dad is going to think we're banging." Dead silence. I crack an eye open in time to see Mo nearly run off the road from the silent shaking fit of laughter. Nat just blinks wide blue eyes at me.

"Pardon?" I snicker a little and shrug at him as if it’s not really as funny as it is.

"It was in his ‘Evie Bad’ rant. He thinks I'm out doing ‘God knows what’ with you guys." I make sure that I use my air quotes to show just how dumb I think the whole thing is. And really. I have to wonder about the girls my dad knew in high school if he thinks that I’m just sleeping around with a gaggle of boys. Nat sputters, making Mo laugh harder.

"But…I don't think I'm exactly your type." I know right? Somehow his indignation helps settle me, making me feel better. I chuckle and shake my head. The light in the car fades by degrees becoming just an everyday sunlit morning and I sigh in relief knowing instinctively that my eyes are no longer glowing. "So, you good now?"

I don't really know. Still, I nod and reach out a hand to pat his shoulder. "That little tidbit seems not to have occurred to him. Anyway thanks for charging to the rescue guys. Seems like you're always having to do that."

They share a look between them as Mo parks under a tree in the farthest corner of the lot. I raise a brow and they both turn in their seats to peer at me intently. They aren't twins and they don't look exactly alike but somehow the dual stare down is oddly twin like. Mo's soft voice is serious and deep as he watches my face.

"You're our friend Evie. Besides coming to your rescue is gonna look great on Naftali's college applications. Who doesn't love a hero?" Nat nods but punches his brother in the shoulder for using his Hebrew name. It makes me smile a little, happy that we're in it together.

"What Shlomo here is trying to say is that, we're your friends, and we're always gonna be your friends. We're always gonna come running when you call. Just like you did when it was us in need of some saving." I feel something hot prickles behind my eyelids and I'm having a hard time looking at the both of them so I look at my hands in my lap. I clear my throat and try for a smirk even though emotion is trying to overwhelm me.

"Even if I'm a dirty gay shiksa?" It surprises a laugh out of Mo as he gets out of the car. I climb out after Nat and he drops a heavy arm around my shoulders.

"Of course. You're our dirty gay shiksa." I chuckle and lean in to him, arm wrapped loosely around his waist as we walk toward the scatter of buildings that hold the classrooms. I guess I can see why my dad maybe got a little confused about my relationship with Nat and the boys. We're awfully touchy feely with each other. I walk with the boys through the gates and in to the courtyard, my stomach dropping as I realize that I'll have the whole day of classes ahead of me. Oh yay. I should have ditched. There is just so much to go over in my head and I don't even know where to start.

"Listen guys, we need to talk, can we make time later today?" It's not like we don't each have a ton of things to do but after they just told me they'll always be there I think it's only fair that I tell them what I know. "I kinda sorta found the Guardian." Nat stops in his tracks making me trip just a little. I catch myself and glance at him in alarm.

"You're just telling us this NOW?!" I glance around quickly to make sure no one is looking. Which they aren't. Mo crowds in close and I shrug.

"Sorry, it's been a busy morning what with the confrontations and the stalking and the rescuing and all." Nat gives me an exasperated sigh but nods.

"Can't leave you alone for five minutes. I swear." He pulls me into a closer hug as we all chuckle at that. "It's sprint day, team should be done by five if you wanna hang out and wait for us." It's his way of making sure that I stay out of trouble until I can tell them everything. Since I don't really feel like going to see Tony for our usual appointment I just nod.

"Yeah Evie, don't forget that today is the Winter Formal committee meeting. At least one of the AV Club members should be there so we can work out the sound and lighting. If we're not they'll make the theme "Under the Sea" again." We all groan at that. I'm so tired of that theme and I haven't even gone to one of the stupid dances. I mean. I've gone to set up and clean up but I've never actually been to the dances. I look down at my faded vans trying to picture heels. Yeah. No. That way leads to disaster.

"Fine fine, I'll do it. No promises on changing the theme though." Mo gives me a quick wink as the bell rings. "School hard, boys." I wave them off as I head for the building that houses the science classes. I wonder if Lirae will sit through the committee meeting with me. If I'm lucky it won't last long and then she and I can hang out together. Maybe probably even make out. Hm. Suddenly my day is looking up.

#my writing #the av club story dredful tales

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galacticgarbagedump-blog · 7 years ago

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David x Reader: You Remind Me of Someone (Camp Camp)

It had been two years, and yet you were still having that same damn dream. The dream where you woke up sobbing, unable to remember what is was about, but clearly remembering that sense of loss that made your eyes pour and your heart clench. Your brother Roan had told you that it was perfectly normal, and that it was linked to something called a soulmate. He had explained that the dreams wouldn’t stop until you found your special other, and while he was excited that it meant you’d find them soon, to you it was only stressful and overbearing. You could live without the hole in your chest that ghosted your thoughts every morning and made you not want to fall asleep at night.

Your brother had suggested that, since summer was coming up pretty soon, you should take up that open job opportunity as a camp counselor to help get your mind off of it. After a bit of persuasion, you had hesitantly agreed.

So now here you were, at Camp Campbell, already surrounded by children who were asking for your name and who you were. One of them asked if you were an insane cultist “like the last guy”, which concerned you for a brief moment, until you were pulled away from them by a seemingly very stressed and angry new co-counselor. “Ignore them, they have no idea what they’re saying. Anyways, welcome to Camp Campbell, I’m Gwen.” You smiled nervously and shook her hand gently. “Y/N, Y/N L/N. It’s nice to meet you, Gwen. I’m happy to be working here, and I promise I’ll be a valuable asset to the camp.” She chuckled and nodded in approval. “I like you already, Y/N. David should be here soon, I think he’s talking with Max about how dangerous glass bottles are or whatever. I have to take the kids in for lunch, just stay here for a second while I go get David to show you around.”

You nodded, obediently staying in place while she walked off with the kids in tow, before having something slam into you, its weight keeping you on the ground. At first you had thought it might be a bear, and you were ready to scream your lungs out, however, immediate apologies spilled from said “bear” before you could even open your mouth. “Oh my goodness, I am so sorry! I wasn’t watching where I was going at all!” He helped you up, and what with his camp getup, you could only assume that this was the David guy Gwen was talking about, and the kid behind him must’ve been Max. “Um, it’s okay... I’m Y/N? The uh... new counselor?” It came out as more of a question than a statement due to your confusion after just being trampled (and also a little bit because he was kinda really cute actually).

“Oh my god, David, you hired another one!? Did you at least make sure this one wasn’t a bat shit crazy cult leader who believes in whatever the fuck a Zeemuug is!?” Okay you felt like there was a story behind that, though you really didn’t know if you wanted to ask. David scoffed, glancing down at the kid in a disappointed manner. “Max! Don’t be so rude to our new counselor! You and I both know we needed another helping hand here at Camp Campbell.” Max groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. “You know, you don’t always have to focus on the least fucking important parts of everyone’s sentences all the damn time.” David only grinned, ruffling Max’s hair as the ten year old let out some angry kid noises. “Language!”

You lifted your pointer finger. “Um, if it helps, I’m not a cult leader. I got this job so that I could spend some time outside for a while, maybe help some kids, I dunno...” Max clicked his tongue. “What, do you live with your fucking parents or something?” You shook our head. “No, I live alone, but I’ve been having some of those wicked soulmate dream-nightmare things. Just needed to think on it.” The boy rolled his eyes, before pausing and narrowing them. “Wait... David, didn’t you say you were going through that same sort of shit?” David nodded, a quizzical look on his features. “Yes, but it probably has nothing to do with-” Max walked towards the mess hall, leaving you two behind to sit in an awkward silence. You kind of felt like that was his plan; making the two of you feel awkward as hell so that you’d be uncomfortable 100% of the time. Little did he know, you already felt that way towards everyone. All the time. Hah.

David cleared his throat, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. “W-well, that’s Max for you! I promise he gets more... um... actually he’s always like that, but I swear he’s a good kid.” You snorted, chuckling quietly. “He’s a little shit. But I’m sure he just needs a little guidance.” David sighed in content, smiling softly. “Exactly! How would you like for me to take you on a tour of the camp so that you know where everything is?” You nodded and grinned at the taller male. “Sounds like a plan.”

-*-*-*-

After walking around the campus for an admittedly longer time than you’d like, and being forced to sing campfire songs at 8pm after practically fighting a bunch of children just to get them to shut the fuck up and sit on the damn logs, you were exhausted. “Hey, David, do you happen to know where I’ll be sleeping?” He paused for a moment, before opening his mouth and then closing it again, looking away. “Well, um, since we don’t have any extra beds,, and since Gwen refuses to move her Twilight collection off of my couch since she doesn’t have her own dresser anymore, you’ll have to sleep in my cabin. Gwen already locked hers for the night.” You shrugged, not really seeing a problem with it. The guy had proved to be way too fucking innocent and morally stricken to try anything to you, and you were 20 years old, you could handle yourself. “Okay. Would you mind us heading back now? All of the kids are back at their tents, so..” “Oh of course!” He seemed relieved that you hadn’t made a big deal about having to sleep in the same bed as him. After changing into your pajamas and laying down, you found that a mattress meant for one person was just that. You two were practically spooning just to be comfortable, and David had no idea where to put his arms. You were too tired to deal with awkward situations at this point, so you gently placed his right arm around your waist and let his other rest beneath your head. “O-oh...” His voice was shaky and soft as you yawned to yourself. “Goodnight David.” He swallowed thickly, patting your hip in a nervous manner. “Good- Goodnight, Y/N.”

-*-*-*-

The next morning, you had woken up with your head rested on David’s chest and his arms wrapped around you securely, gently holding you to him. He seemed so peaceful, you didn’t want to wake him by moving too much, so you stayed still, yawning quietly. That was the best sleep you had had in years.

Wait.

That was the best sleep you had had in years. You had found your soulmate. The realization hit you like a ton of bricks, your eyes widening as you stared blankly at David. It had to be him. You could feel it, the odd pull that seemed to connect your heart to his. You must have been staring for longer than you realized, because David’s eyes had opened and he was asking if you were okay. You gasped, grabbing his collar. “David!” He yelped, nervously eyeing the wild look on your face, as though you were ready to jump him. “Y.... Yes, Y/N?” You inhaled sharply, gripping his collar tighter, your knuckles turning white. “Did you sleep well!?” You had to prove it to yourself, because if his dreams didn’t stop, then you were fucked. His look of fear turned into one of confusion. “Um... yes? I did- HOLY SHIT!” His eyebrows shot up and he grabbed your shoulders, in the same shock that you were in. “You’re my....” He trailed off, unable to finish his sentence. “You’re my soulmate.” You ended it for him, before your face completely lifted, tears springing to your eyes as you embraced him, laughing lightly. “David, David, you’re my soulmate! I found you. I finally found you.” He instantly returned your embrace, and you could feel his wide grin through your nightshirt. He held you tight, as though he never wanted to let go.

Bonus:

“Wow.” There was a sniffle from the door as Gwen wiped a tear from her sparkling eyes. “I was just making sure you guys didn’t bone in front of Edward Cullen, but this is great.” Max scoffed, holding a camera and glaring at you two. “Fuckin weirdos. You were supposed to have sex, not be sappy fucks! Whatever, I’ll get blackmail later.”

#camp camp #camp camp imagine #camp camp x reader #camp camp david #cc david #cc david imagine #camp camp david imagine #cc david x reader #camp camp david x reader #reader insert #gender neutral reader #kind of a lazy write but oh well #soulmate au

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wanna1things · 7 years ago

Text

Roommate!Aron Kwak

is my boi arrrrrrrrroooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooon

Genre;; fluff + college!au + roommates/flatmates!au

Warnings;; ?? food stealing ??

Pairing;; Aron Kwak x reader

Requested;; YES (by anon here) and i am finally getting it done thank you for your patience

Summary;; Someone keeps stealing your food… There’s only one person it could possibly be, and that’s your pesky roommate Aron...

Style;; bullet point

Word Count;; 1068

IM SO SORRY THIS TOOK SO LONG I WAS TRYING TO FINALISE A STORYLINE and I decided the best artists always put a bit of themselves into their work so i added the reality which is my own flatmates stealing my food uh…. it’s a bit shorter than i wanted but the storyline cant really be lengthened out that much lol

when you moved into your college dorms everything seemed normal

that was until you met your roommate

you were originally surprised enough when this;; really beautiful human ;; walked through your door and announced himself as your roommate

but then as he revealed how weird he was

you;; had difficulty understanding how your life came to this DHSHFH

first of all

he turned up to the dorm with thomas the tank engine bed sheets

you immediately knew this guy was YOUR kind of guy

“hi, my name’s aron kwak, and i suppose i’m your roommate then;;”

“haha yeah probably;; i’m y/n”

he nodded and placed his stuff on his bed and tapped your shoulder for some reason best known to himself and went to get the rest of his stuff

SECOND OF ALL

he burst into song at random moments

one night you were trying to sleep at like 3am after a major cram session

when out of nowhere, aron who had previously been sleeping like a log

started singing????

i mean his voice was beautiful but at 3am?? Boi

THIRD OF ALL

yeah he just steals your clothes

got an oversized hoodie?

its now aron’s normal-sized hoodie

I mean he’d give it back to you but don’t expect it to not go missing like 3 seconds later lmao

it’s safe to say you were confused

as the weeks of your roommate-ship went on you realised he wasn’t only weird as hell but he was also pretty hilarious

he’d brought one of those projector things that changes your phone into a like projector lmao idk how to explain

and y’all were just watching a film because uh

his friend minki came over for ““““““date night””””””

so they invited you to join in watching the film lmao THIRD WHEEL

when out of nowhere he starts making really terrible puns;;

one day you both entered a ‘ready steady cook’ contest to win £50 starbucks vouchers LOL

and that was the day you learnt more of aron’s secret talents

he’s like?? a master chef

?? clever, funny and can cook? what a man

this all changed when one night, your packet of doritos went missing

you were really looking forward to tucking into the packet you bought at the store a couple days back when it was on offer

but when you got back to your room it was gone??

at first you were at a loss to who could’ve taken it like uh;; mysterious dorito thief is terrorising campus maybe??

but then you realise

there was really only one person it could be

DARN IT ARON KWAK

quicker than lightning you pulled out your phone and began typing an angry message, hitting send and then running to the store to buy some more doritos

they were more expensive this time around but you best believe you were getting that doritos fix even if it killed you(r bank account)

you also picked up some more chocolate buttons on the way (because yes, chocolate buttons are LIFE)

when you got back you put your doritos and new chocolate buttons down with the rest of your stash of food

aron appeared looking soppy af

he mumbled a sorry and flopped down on his bed

normally you’d be worried but this guy just stole your doritos like uh NO sympathy

JUST KIDDING of course you were worried doritos were a minor issue

you sat down next to his bed and smiled at him yknow that awkward smile you do when people are sad lol

he sighed in response and rolled onto his back

“Heyy y/n do you think i’m annoying?? Or weird??”

ok you were a bit taken aback because ?? this guy who exudes confidence and eternal happiness is self conscious?? This is not right

“Noooo way jose you’re not annoying!! And you’re weird but like;; in an endearing way lol idk”

He rolled his eyes at your attempt at complimenting him and mumbled a thanks in response

“If you find it endearing does that mean you loveeee me~~~”

back comes the usual aron kwak

but as he said those words you realised ohhhhh uh oh

soMEONE has a CRUSH on the doritos thief UM (in case you are unaware, that is u with the crush)

about 3 days later, you come back to your dorm and you’re greeted by the soft smell of cookies as you enter your room

and you’re a bit confused like?? why does it smell of cookies tf??

when you get properly inside your room you notice aron sitting on his bed with a plate full of chocolate cookies

he smiles at you as you walk in and he points to the cookies as if you didn’t already notice them

“these are to make up for me stealing your doritos!! i hope you enjoy them lol!!”

Um THANK YOU ARON <333333

as you sunk your teeth into the first one you had the sudden feeling that something was up

so you looked over to your stock of food and you noticed

your chocolate buttons were missing

BOI;;;;;;

you grabbed your pillow and whacked aron STRAIGHT across the face

he was taken aback for a second but then he smiled and it was oddly shifty

“what if i tell you these are also apology cookies for me using your chocolate buttons?”

in that moment you swear you were about to fight this boy

but he suddenly stood up out of nowhere and came over to you

“Ahh but y/n i’m seriously sorry,, and i’m also serious about something else lol look at the plate”

if you guessed that the boy put a damn confession letter on the plate you right

cheesy ass

I mean it kinda failed it was completely soaked in grease LMAO

ANYWAY

of cOURSE you accept the confession from the weird soft boy (i mean who wouldn’t amirite)

CUE YOU TWO BEING COUPLE GOALS

you go around uni like you OWN the damn place, making puns everywhere, being generally weirdos

you meet the rest of his squad (cough cough baekho minhyun and jonghyun) and at first minki is mad because his date nights with aron are GONE

BUT they love you probably even more than aron because you make less terrible jokes yeeeeeeeeeeeeee

ALL IN ALL y’all the cutest, weirdest couple

you bet aron’s still stealing your doritos and your clothes (and your HEART) forever

me? i love aron and would stab myself in the eye if he asked me too;; half of my albums are inadvertently his version too SJHGDF

#aron #aron kwak #aaron kwak #kwak youngmin #nu'est imagines #nu'est aron #nu'est #nu'est w #ak #college!au #au

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bryyo-data · 7 years ago

Text

Diaries of a Pirate Hussar

Log Entry 1

Well, I've finished training and today they're gonna give me a beast. Also, I broke my personal records device. The one I stole off Captain Brules a cycle ago. Oh well, I'm missing it more than he ever did. Luckily I managed to get hold of a new one today- the respect you get as a rider is glorious! They'll just give you this stuff.

They've captured a new bunch of Korakk Beasts, all younglings fresh for training. I've gotta get mine into shape and then we'll be patrolling down by the jungle generator, I think. Supposedly it won't take long- they're loyal beasts, but dumb as shit. Dangerous, mind, but dumb. Kinda reminds me of Brules, now I think about it.

Log Entry 2

I met up with my beast yesterday. He's a weird looking thing. I mean, I haven't seen that many Korakks, but this one has this straggly look about him. And he just doesn't sit still. It's gonna take us the rest of the year to get the armour on him.

Wish I could say he took to me like the Velbop in that old story they used to tell us as youngsters. Nah, he threw a hissy fit when I tried to get near him and knocked my lance out of my hand. Could've been trampled. But I'll persevere. It'd be cowardly to back out now. This is my beast and I will tame him.

Log Entry 3

Beast taming is not going well. Somehow he managed to put a dent in the walls of his pen, because he was thrashing around so much and acting like an idiot. Then he sat in the corner and made whimpering noises all evening. It pisses me off because I saw Hussar 15 go off with her beast into the jungle, and she's only had it for ten days! It's not like I'm expecting instantaneous results here, but I can't even get the thing to sit still for five minutes so I can get on its stupid head.

Log Entry 4

Two week's worth of training finally paid off. I managed to get onto his head today. Then I sat myself down in what we like to call the driver's seat, and away I went! Flying through the sky because the freakish creature bucked me off. Then I was nearly trampled by it, and let me tell you, there's absolutely nothing fun about a Korakk running at you at high-speed while you're incapacitated on the floor.

Having been, ahem, rescued by a few of my colleagues, I set about putting a complaint in to command. Clearly there's something wrong with this one. With the amount of time we've spent on it, it should be as cooperative as the rest of them. I suspect Phazon madness, because you see more of that stuff growing around every day. Nearly stepped in a blob of it before- could've melted my leg off!

Log Entry 5

We had Commando 68 take a look at it, but the beast has been given the all-clear. He beat the thing pretty harshly into shape- it wasn't nice to watch. In fact, I feel a bit sorry for inflicting that on the stupid thing now. It looked awfully subdued afterward. I felt so bad that I went out and caught a Nightbarb for it- the normal ones, not those Phazon weirdo mutants. Seemed pleased enough.

Tomorrow they're going out to round up a couple more beasts, aiming to catch at least three of four of them if they can. I was gonna volunteer to help, but they want us to go mounted, and that probably ain't a good idea. Either I'll end up dead, or my beast will.

Log Entry 6

I've been sneaking rations to my beast. He's starting to look fatter, but that's okay because he was skinny to start with. Now he just looks normal.

It's fine, I can afford it. We're well paid in our position. It's a dangerous job handling Korakks, given their size and strength, so we're compensated. It takes someone like 68 to really know how to handle them- I still ain't too pleased with his methods, but he's the expert so I won't question it. But he's not handling my beast. I am, so from now on I'm handling things the way I want to.

Also, I decided on a name for him. I'm calling him Pod. It's short for "my brain is the size of a Wryl Bean Pod and I'm stupid" because he is.

Log Entry 7

Hussar 11 caught me sneaking Nightbarb wings to Pod and told me it was dangerous. Said I "wouldn't be the first to get devoured by my Korakk if I associate myself with food". I feel a bit bad stopping now because he always looks forward to them, but oh well. I prefer my head.

We rode around a bit today and he's actually taking a liking to me. Well, I hope so anyway, maybe it's just the snack thing. Maybe he's gonna toss me off and eat me. Hopefully not.

Log Entry 8

Today I'm confident enough to take Pod out on duty. We've had some worrying reports coming from the north and Command aren't risking anything. It sounds like the Federation are getting suspicious. I'm surprised they haven't turned up sooner if I'm honest, Norion's only, like, a planet away.

We're just trying to get the Phazite armour on Pod now. He's a bit hesitant, but I think if we- oh, bugger.

Log Entry 9

We got the armour on Pod. He took it off again. Commencing attempt two.

Log Entry 10

Great, Pod just inflicted a fatal wound on Hussar 18. They had to drag him off. Won't be seeing him again. Didn't like him much anyway, he was a- POD

Log Entry 11

Pod somehow got OVER the pen walls, found a few storage barrels, and is eating weapons fuel. I really don't wanna go near him because of the whole food-association thing... Man, his tongue's huge... I didn't even realise they were that big... Oh damn, those guys have weapons. They're gonna shoot Pod. I gotta do something.

Log Entry 12

So I managed to drag Pod away from the weapons fuel and somehow convinced my superiors that he's a really nice Korakk Beast and it won't happen again. He's actually an idiot and he's going to ruin my reputation, but I still feel bad about what 68 did and now we've bonded so I have to look out for him. We got out on duty within good enough time, and nothing interesting happened. Now I'm sitting on Pod's back while he paces up and down this stretch of path non-stop because he can't sit still for two minutes.

I guess his energy levels are a good thing?

We did spot a few of those reptiles who live on Bryyo, and I swear one of them was riding a Korakk too. But they vanished into thin air the moment we got up there. They like to lurk behind those giant thorn plants, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. At least I have Pod to protect me.

Log Entry 13

Pod caused a little bit more strife. He got into a fight with one of the other Korakks, and things got nasty. I mean, Korakks are nasty beasts anyway, so two of them locked in a deathmatch is brutal. Next thing you know there's Korakk blood-goo everywhere and claws waving wildly in the air. Me and the other Korakk's rider managed to get well out of the way in time, but we couldn't call the beasts off each other. Pod managed to rip the other one's tongue out and then was making jabs at its belly. That could've killed it.

Lucky a few aerotroopers showed up. They managed to distract Pod from the safety of above while we climbed away and the other terrified animal made a run for it. Luckier still, you can't reach a Korakk's stomach from above, and that's the vulnerable point. Those guys would've killed Pod for sure if they could.

Log Entry 14

Pod and I have been removed off duty due to disciplinary issues. Commando 68 isn't best pleased with my efforts. I guess he was right? And I was starting to think me and Pod were pretty tight.

There's been a couple more attacks on the jungle base by those lizards, and apparently the gel plant area is having major problems with them as well. At least our glorious Leader has sent a new Commander to help us sort them out while our technicians finish up the generator defences.

In the meantime, I dunno what I'm gonna do. I've been accused of being "too soft" which is just about the worst reputation-tarnisher a Pirate can get. Too soft means not ruthless enough for battle. Unable to battle means unable to serve the Pirate forces. If I get struck off, I'll be shipped back to Urtraghus and have my head put in a drone 'til the end of my days. I'd rather not.

Log Entry 15

Me and Pod have been sent to a quieter location down south. There's less for him to get angry at there, and so the both of us are safer, as is everyone else. We're basically just keeping the reptiles at bay from down here, but most of them are coming from the north anyway. It's not particularly entertaining.

I've been a bit stricter with Pod- haven't talked to him much, or picked bugs off the thorn bushes for him. I even jabbed him in the side at one point when he was misbehaving. He nearly threw me- won't be doing that again. I felt bad doing it, but security is paramount, and the only way he's gonna keep going is if he learns to behave himself.

Log Entry 16

Some of those Bryyonian lizards dared to get close to us today. I could tell Pod was on edge for a while, then suddenly one of the things lunged at his face. Couldn't get past his armour, but it was a shock. Needless to say, he dashed the thing to the ground and it was a pulp in seconds.

I signalled to a couple of the ground guards and they pretty much took care of the rest. A few more lizards jumped through the bushes but they were basically leaping into weapons fire. It almost feels like some sort of weird test. They can't be that intelligent, they're brutish and their planet's soaked in Phazon.

Pod wasn't too shaken by the assault, but he had taken a very small wound to his right leg. It must've been hurting him because he didn't move about too much afterward, which is uncharacteristic. He even let me clean it up afterwards. I don't know if he's forgiven me for the harsh treatment, but I'm gonna have to admit it- I'm not cut out for that. I'm too nice or whatever. From now on, it's bugs as often as I can catch them.

Log Entry 17

68 noted today that I've been working hard on Pod. I dunno what I've been doing that he's noticed, but he was pleased. Said the guards on the south end were impressed, partly because I managed to control Pod enough to prevent him from killing them too. I still think that was something to do with his leg, but oh well, I'll take the praise.

I know what I haven't been doing, and that is harsh treatment. You simply can't do that to them. They get annoyed, and you end up dead if you aren't careful. Treat 'em nice, and they love it. Today Pod followed me around while I was on foot, didn't ignore me, didn't try to eat me, just followed me around like a faithful Velbop. It was- dare I say this about my killer beast? It was adorable.

I hope nobody reads my diary.

Log Entry 18

Those lizards made a full-scale assault on us today. I was out towards the east near the generator with a couple of other Hussars, and suddenly we were surrounded by them. Some of them were huge, bulky things which turned invisible the minute you looked at them. The rest had these animals, Warp Hounds, which could teleport with them. Horrible things, they were. I saw a trio of hounds tear the limbs off someone's Korakk. The rider had a lucky quick death after that.

Pod handled it well- kept his stomach shielded, just like he was trained to do, and didn't falter once, even when one of those reptiles grabbed hold of his tongue. Korakks have sensitive tongues and it hurts to pull on 'em, but Pod managed to yank the reptile over and crush it. I also managed to coax him into spitting Phazon, which isn't something he generally likes to do because it burns his mouth on the way out. It worked well, though. Not exactly hypermode-PED levels of power, but I was impressed.

Near the end of the battle I got knocked off by one of those lizards' throwing weapons. I landed near the holobarrier, and the electric shock disabled all my limbs. Ruddy things. What amazed me was Pod stuck around and shielded me the whole time, standing over me to keep me from harm. At first I thought he was gonna trample me by accident, but I could tell he was being deliberately careful with where he put his feet.

After the battle, I was taken in for repairs, which is where I still am. Supposedly I'll be out tomorrow and back on duty. I'm a lucky one. About half the guards over there are lying dead in the mud now, plus two Korakks. Those lizards really know how to beat them.

Log Entry 19

I've come out of repairs and all my limbs are good to go. This is what happens when you don't evolve your own legs like most other species, you're transformed into a useless slug when the technology inevitably fails. Not even like I could crawl away with all the heavy metal stuck to me and pinning me down. But hey, I had Pod to look after me, and even if it did take a little coaxing for him to let the guards get to me, he did a good job.

Bad news from the north- the Hunter Samus Aran has made planetfall. And here we were thinking she was dead or something. She's never dead, she comes back faster than Lord Ridley. Well, bugger, we're dead.

Except we can't afford to be dead, because Command are insistent that we beat her this time. We have Phazon on our sides, and Phazon makes us stronger. Our Leader makes us stronger, with Phazon. Nothing's going to go wrong, okay?

Log Entry 20

Me and Pod have been reassigned again, this time to the way between the generator and the nearest viable landing site. It's a pretty vital path if the Hunter wants to get down to us, but Commando 68 is confident that we can handle it. Apparently you need a "wild, unpredictable beast" to take down something as dangerous as the Hunter. Apparently, to no surprise, a "wild, unpredictable beast" is how they're referring to Pod these days. No worries, I've got a handle on him.

I really hope the Hunter isn't gonna come down this way, if I'm honest. There's other ways to the generator, albeit longer ones- wouldn't it be ridiculous of her to place her ship so close to us? She's probably got the sense to make her way down from the cliff region instead. Maybe, maybe not.

Oh well, no good panicking about it now. I'm not a coward and I'm not disobeying orders. As much as I like Pod, his duty is the same as mine- we go in together, and if we die, we die. Whether we do or not, hopefully we'll stop the Hunter in the process.

At least it's a good spot down here, near the densest part of the jungle. There's bugs galore! I keep catching them out of the air and sneaking them to Pod. Tried a few myself, but they get stuck between my teeth. So I'll just give them to him for now. He seems pretty happy with himself.

That's a funny looking ship up there. Don't recognise that one. Maybe it's a Federation vessel, or the Hunter? I'd better investigate, I think I can see some rising smoke. Thought I heard a funny loud noise too. Didn't spook Pod, though. If I leave my records device up here, I hope nobody makes off with it, or there'll be hell to pay.

-- Records end here --

#Metroid #Space Pirates #Metroid Prime 3: Corruption #Korakk Beast #Pirate Hussar #Bryyo #Fanfiction

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