#The Kitsune's Dangerous Experiment

[alienatedbug]

Evil Tetro au !! Okazaki/Tsuno designs

Its kinda difficult to read my handwriting so plot and design choices under the cut :3

(Ignore my spelling mistakes.. mb)

Warnings: drugs and poorly written/explained points Design

I wanted Tsuno and Okazaki to parallel each other design wise and motive wise. Okazaki has brighter, more lighter values for them to stand out compared to Tsuno’s cooler tones, darker values.

Underneath Oka’s shawl, is a darker fabric to symbolise her less ‘heroic’ Robin Hood persona they put on. (I’m not a big fan of completely wiping a character’s personality in AUs so I still wanted Oka’s more villainess tendencies). The darker colours in their lower half is also emulate this. Okazaki has a feathers throughout her design bc it looked good, I don’t really have anything to say to add. Large feathers beneath Oka is to show her Kitsune motifs- as well as this, I thought it would be quite interesting the Kitsune/feathery tails could act as a ‘cat with nine lives’ esk thing. Okazaki in this AU is an attention seeker who strives for danger to stand out from others which causes them to get into near death experiences.

Tsuno time !

Okay, the design choices are mostly random icl. I wanted Tsuno to have a more stereotypical hero suit ig. It makes more sense if you read the story part. Tsuno has a more streamlined, simple silhouette (and sharper bc shape language) as in this AU she doesn’t realllly want to stand out as this could out her ‘nightly activities’ but does anyways. Her hair to suppose to look like a ghost since like ghosts aren’t seen..(I can’t word this part well). The reversed hair, specifically the black part, is too show her dark mindset. The symbol is a moon also to symbolise her ‘nightly activities’.

What is her nightly activities you may ask? Selling drugs to the poor, shown by the strap across her body. Inside the bottles are either drugs, to illegally sell or chemicals to throw as Okazaki lmao.

Not much else other than those main design choices so off to the plot we go !!

Plot

The characters are ooc and the story is not believable whatsoever but that was the look I was going for, so don’t come after me x

This AU is (ofc) inspires by that Von post as well as the DC franchise (specifically the Gotham area).

I wanted the story to focus on perspectives, which I’m a big fan of, most if not all of the characters believe themselves as ‘correct’ n stuff. So Okazaki, being the protag is an unreliable narrator constantly, exaggerating her feats and good achievements. They act as a Robin Hood/Dark Knight amalgamation. However, as the story continues the characters that follow Oka slowly realise that Oka isn’t all that she seems.

The main plot is as followed: Okazaki goes by the name of the ‘Phantom Thief’ they travel the country to fight evildoers, to rid the country of criminals and get more street cred. As Okazaki continues to travel Japan, she slowly recruits people to her cause (E.g. Watari and Tamba).

The main antagonists are: Sasaki and Tsuno (maybe one or two more). They both have the same motivations of taking over Japan and subsequently, the world they also most definitely hate each others guts.

Now how does Tsuno do this? Tsuno, like said previously, Tsuno sells drugs. Like the type of drugs (like Arcane) which makes the people who gets addicted extremely reliant to them- this means Tsuno is able to control them more easily and can act as her lackeys. Tsuno thinks drugs are the best thing to grace the planet, but she follows Walter White’s rule of never taking the herself to not get addicted herself.

How has Tsuno able to not get arrested? Two things, the police fucking suck and she basically runs the law. In this AU, Tsuno has a goodie-two-shoes superhero facade (like Homelander from the boys) making her OP in the sense of everyone thinks she can’t do any harm whatsoever. Which is why she wears a hood, to hide her face.

—

This was very fun to write and design evil tetro characters so I will be doing this again so if you want me to design/write of the the Tetro characters feel free to ask in my inbox but rq two since I’ll be doing it in batches of two x. Thanks so much for reading if you’ve read to the end i really appreciate it <33

[gallusrostromegalus]

You ohhhandedly mentioned tessai livong through ww2 and… wow thats true there were a lot of characters that got a first row seat to both conflicts, even if only the second was really impactful on japans history. Does urahara, yoruichi, tessai, the vizored or any of the shinigami have any specific feelings on ww2/the nuclear bombs? I know its a wild fucking question but it literally just occurred to me and i cant stop thinking about it.

Yeah WW2 is an entire 5-chapter arc in the fic because apparently Kubo is from Hiroshima, and Karakura town is based on his memories growing up there. Stuff that happens during that arc:

The Soul Society's sole warning that something catastrophic might be coming is the arrival of an irradiated and enraged Coyote spirit from the Trinidad test site. It's up to Newly-appointed captain Komamura to calm it down and explain what happened, and Mayuri is able to work out that atomic weapons are real from it's descriptions. He gives Soul Society about a month before the humans drop one on a city.

Unfortunately, he's correct.

***

Urahara and the Visoreds use the fact that they're already dead to mitigate some of the damage from the bombing by walking into the epicenter and shoving carbon rods into the most radioactive points, stemming much of the radiation damage, but there's nothing they can do for the initial wave of destruction.

It involves going through a new gigai every trip and learning what if feels like to have the flesh actually melt off your bones, but Hirako Shinji and the other Visored are no cowards, least of all about Hard and Dirty Work.

Tessai makes Ururu and Jinta out of spare parts from Urahara's Gigai experiments to house a heavily damage Kitsune and Tanuki spirit pair from a shrine that was destroyed. Ururu is the Tankuki, and the older one- Jinta seems a bit more 'organic' because Tessai learned a lot making his sister, and because as a Kitsune, he's a better actor.

***

Soul Society is in major trouble though.

with the sudden influx of souls- first from the bombing, but then from the radiation sickness and the famine that followed, the living and spirit worlds are in danger of becoming unbalanced.

It's a Major Crisis!

Fortunately for them, people with sociopathy tend to operate really well during Crises, and I realized the reason Mayuri hasn't been fired or killed by the time Ichigo shows up is that when shit hits the fan, Mayuri's lack of emotional response to the suffering of others means he can buckle down and fucking DELIVER.

Expansions to the pocket dimension that the queue of incoming souls is housed in? He didn't sleep for two weeks to get it done on time, but there was more than enough room when the bomb dropped and for the few months after as casualties continued.

Emergency rations for all these incoming factory workers that know nothing about farming? Behold, Nutritionally complete meals that you can eat right out of the box! And smaller, friendlier ones for the kiddies!

Hell, the 12th division even makes instructional propaganda videos about how safe and tasty these new foods are, featuring The Grand Clown Himself, and distribution centers featuring his likeness, so Mayuri enjoys a peculiar popularity in the Rukongai, not unlike an off-brand and sometimes educational Krusty The Clown.

Just ah. Stop asking questions about the ingredients list.

***

"I'm not fucking killing civillians." Says Kenpachi when Yamamoto begins to bring up the historical method that the Shinigami have used to balance out sudden influxes of souls from the living world.

"Oh?" Yamamoto glares at him. "You have a better idea?"

"What's them big fuckers that come outta tears sometimes? Hundred feet tall, black, bird faces?" He asks, waving as he tries to remember the names.

"...Menos Grande?" asks Ukitake, who has gotten remarkably good at interpreting for the man next to him at meetings.

"Yeah!" Zaraki grins, patting his six-foot-tall colleague on the head like a small child. "You said they're like... combination creatures of a thousand souls each right?"

"Zaraki is correct." Pipes up Tousen, who is also extremely eager to not murder civilians and even more eager to absolutely fuck up the army of Menos Aizen has been gathering in Hueco Mundo. "-It wouldn't be *easy* but dispatching approximately Five hundred Menos in the next week seems much more doable and much, much more morally sound than killing five hundred thousand civillians. Sir."

Kaname can feel the curse nails on his back starting to bleed from Aizen's glare but he presses on.

"-There appears to be a significant population of them gathered on the far eastern edge of Hueco Mundo. It would probably take most of the 11th Division's forces but-"

"IKKAKU!" Zaraki is already bellowing out the door to his lieutenant. "TELL EVERYONE TO PACK AN EXTRA PAIR OF PANTIES, WE'RE GOING ON A HOLLOW HUNT!"

There is a distant but enthusiastic whoop form Ikkaku in reply.

"An excursion into Hueco Mundo is exceptionally dangerous." Unohana notes, voice placid as he returns to the table.

"-and? I don't do this job because it's safe 'n' easy." Zaraki shrugs.

Her neutral expression softens just a bit into a small, affectionate and perhaps ever-so-slightly lascivious smile. "May I suggest that a detachment of the 4th Division accompany the 11th? It won't make the work easier, but it will mitigate some of the risk."

Yamamoto groans, aware that the decision has been made for him.

"Fine." He grunts. "Take a detachment of the Ninth too, you can use that newfangled radiodar whatsit to keep me updated."

"Pardon?" Mumbles Kaname, slightly woozy from blood loss.

His circulatory situation is not helped when an illusion-blind-to-the-blood Zaraki grabs him about the middle and starts carrying him off under his arm in exactly the direction the 9th and 11th are not like a particularly bewildered purse Chihuahua.

***

Aizen... almost strays from his path.

The Hogyoku is slow and tiresome, his first plan to barrage Karakura with Menos to create the Oken is being trashed and actually being forced to work his job of Rukongai Management is- Well, it's reminding him just why he started this quest to Dethrone God.

What loving creator would make an afterlife of squalor, where the 'lucky' are cursed to outlive everyone they know and love? Not one worth worshiping, surely.

But actually being out here, setting up emergency food distribution, implementing the latest in civil engineering from the newly arrived and seeing it immediately improve the quality of life, uniting families and... actually helping people? it's making him question his path. Perhaps- Perhaps God is not some uncaring regent on a distant throne. Perhaps God is something that lives in all souls, a kindness and goodwill towards one's fellow man, and to spread the will of a loving creator, one must Act to Enact God's Will...

Gin Panics.

He has not spent the last 300-odd years dangling the Hogyoku in front of Aizen, stuffing him full of spiritual energy to feed to the machine that generates reality like he was fattening up a goose for Pate, only to have him give up his quest for divinity NOW.

He's gonna have to do something drastic.

He's gonna have to convince Aizen he was right all along, and that he needs to keep using the Hogyoku.

He's going to need to use Aizen's own Illusions against him, and convince Aizen that the souls of the citizens of the rukongai aren't worth playing a Benevolent God for. That the whole thing needs to come out and be replaced.

Sure, it's a dick move

but those are his specialty.

***

It's the night before the 11th and the two detachments are supposed to leave for Hueco Mundo, and Yamamoto's been doing some thinking.

He is also in Zaraki's quarters at midnight sharp. "Captain-General." Nods Unohana, pausing mid-activity to acknowledge him. "Bruh." Zaraki grunts to indicate they were busy. "I need to borrow Zaraki for an hour or so, and then you may continue." he says, and then steps back outside so the man can get untied and dressed.

"This better be good old man, I know you haven't been married for a few centuries but REALLY-" Zaraki grumbles, emerging and putting his sandals on. "Don’t worry, it’ll take twenty minutes tops, all you have to do is stand behind me and don’t hide your rage." Yamamoto explains. "-We'’re going to go see the central 46." Zaraki pauses mid-sandal, slowly looking up at him with an intrigued arch to his brow. "Yes, it’s forbidden." Yamamoto says, not tearing his gaze away from the moon above them. "-But I've received reports that the Central 46 has acquired blueprints of the... Device. Used in the living world earlier this month and I'm nipping this at the damn bud." Zaraki grins, and finishes putting his sandals on.

The Central 46 are alerted to the Presence of Yamamoto and Zaraki by the main gate to their district being kicked through the wall of the council chambers.

"Hello, Sages and Wise Councilors of the Soul Society!" The Old Man greets them as he steps through the hole he just made, and The Barbarian squeezing through after, sword casually over his shoulder. "Well isn't this a surprise, everyone here in a full meeting at One in the Morning on a Teusday!"

"Wh-What is the meaning of this?" one of the head councilmen sputters, mustache bristling. "Shinigami are forbidden form this place, I'll have you both execu-!"

"Shut up." Yamamoto glares, and sparks fly from the corner of his eye. The hem of his Haori is starting to smolder and singe as well as he approaches the table the councilors are crowded around the blueprints from the living world.

"Now, we are all good and honorable people here." Yamamoto says, casually waving a hand in what would normally be a placating gesture but now only made his sleeve flicker as Ryujin Jakka grew hungrier. "-But I've been around long enough to know how Power corrupts."

"And we've all been exposed to a new, horrific level of Power."

"Oh, of course, you would never! It's unthinkable to sink to such a level!"

"...but it's been a few weeks. The initial shock has faded, and you're starting to understand the full toll of the destruction." he explains, strolling up, the diamond insignia on his back spreading across his shoulders as the Haori singes. Behind him, Zaraki is following with an unpleasantly carnivorous stroll, yellow eye lazily moving from face to face, taking stock of all those present. "...and you are perhaps developing a new standard of devastation and suffering to wish upon your enemies."

There is some muttering, some protesting, and worse, some agreeing. They are silenced by a sudden electric crackle of Energy from Zaraki.

"I’m just here to tell you all-" Yamamoto continues, unperturbed. Or perhaps so perturbed he's warped all the way around to a deep, ruthless peace.

"If I hear any ONE of you has taken steps to develop a weapon like this-" he points a finger at the blueprints, which singe and then burn, a low, slow flame that reduces them completely to ash.

"-I’m going to kill all of you."

"Actually," he explains, as the blueprints finish burning and the table catches as well, fire blooming and crackling, lighting him from beneath. "I’m going to kill all of you and your families. By which I mean, I’m figuring out who all your ancestors were going back Five generations, Kill them, and kill all their descendants."

The table burns, and the floor is threatening to catch, but nobody can move to ring the fire alarm or grab a bucket of water.

"-Because that’s the kind of indiscriminate destruction these things cause." he explains. "It's a damn shame to say this, but this is the first time we've been able to settle whole families in the same town- because five, six, even seven generations of families, from great-great grandmother to the newest infants were burnt together in an instant."

"So if you want to wield that kind of destruction, you best be prepared to deal with those kinds of consequences." he growls, and suddenly sweeps his hand over the fire, which snuffs out immediately.

Slowly he turns to go, and regards Zaraki behind him.

"Oh, and just in case any of you had thoughts of hastening my retirement in regards to this matter-" he speaks up, and points to Zaraki "-Near as I can tell, this asshole is immortal and indestructible, so if I happen to be dead, he'll do it for me, won't you?"

"Yes, sir." Zaraki Nods, eye fixed on the head councilor, committing his face to memory, blade and crackling eagerly.

"-and he's nowhere near as speedy and clean a killer as I am, so I suggest you don't test either of us." Yamamoto grins, and Ryujin Jakka can't help but flicker off his brow for emphasis.

"Goodnight, and go fuck yourselves." Yamamoto bows, and exits through the same hole he entered.

The walk back to the 11th is largely silent, but Yamamot can feel the pleased-yet-curious thrum of reiatsu from Zaraki.

"Question, boss-" he suddenly speaks as they approach the 11th.

"You're not supposed to question orders, Zaraki." He sighs. He'll make a proper shinigami out of him. Eventually.

"...Request for clarification, Boss-" Zaraki tries again, and Yamamoto nods. "-Why me?"

Yamamoto arches an overgrown brow at him.

"Not complainin'-" Zaraki explains, pointedly looking up at the moon and scratching his neck in deferment. "-But Byakuya's got more sway with them and Gin's definitely better at terrifying first impressions."

"Hm." Yamamoto nods. "It's in the follow-up, not the impression, you see."

"I do not." Zaraki says. For all his faults and frustrations, Zaraki sure keeps Yamamoto on his toes about not being lazy and actually explaining himself.

"-I am very serious about you killing them and their descendants if they ever think about making one of those devices." he sighs and Zaraki nods, waving a hand for him to continue. "-So I picked the Shinigami most invested in a peaceful future to make sure my orders would be carried out."

Zaraki still looks confused.

"You're my only captain with children, Zaraki." Yamamoto explains. "I know you only give half a rat's ass about the court guard, but I've seen what you'll do for Yachiru."

Zaraki nods understanding now, and a few more paces of silence pass between them.

"...Thank you, Sir." Zaraki mutters, bowing his head and using the honorific with genuine intent for the first time since Yamamoto had known him. "-For understanding."

"Thank you, Captain Zaraki." Yamamoto nodded slightly, stopping before the gate to the 11th. "-For understanding as well."

"-Now get back to Captain Unohana before she schedules some sort of blood test of a thousand needles for me!" Yamamoto grunted, prodding at Zaraki with his cane, and the man didn't need to be told twice.

[identityua]

Can I have Venti, Focalors and Ei dating hcs?

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DATING THE GENSHIN ARCHONS.

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PAIRINGS: Ei & Furina x GN!Reader

WARNINGS: Mentions of death (Makoto). Me completely bullshitting everything about Focalors, since we have practically nothing to go off of. Tooth-rotting fluff as well! TAGS: Romance, kisses here and there, maybe even cuddles, pda, possessive behaviour (only a tad and mostly on Focalors), kinda sad, but also nice.

(I didn't write for Venti sorryyy)

EI

• The only way for your relationship to develop is already after the decree, because well, she was absent during it. Which means you don't have to put up with the awkward Shogun puppet, and actually hang out with Ei herself! • Let's start off with the fact that the electro archon is pretty much, entirely clueless about the whole romance thing. Unlike the other archon on this list, who has some idea of it either due to experience or media, this one spent thousands of years isolated. So let's be honest, you are going to need a lot of patience and skill to guide her into the playing field.

• In the first stages of your relationship things would be awkward, maybe even embarrassing. Baal wouldn't know how to react to your advances. Attempting even a simple peck on the cheek, would result in a confused:

"What are you doing, may I ask? A kiss, hm... It feels uncomfortably wet."

• Despite the lack of intimate knowledge, she will try her best with you. Because you are one of the most important things to her, you make her feel warm and secure, something Ei hasn't experienced in a long while. She will just have to put up and learn with you "interesting human antics."

• I hope you have a good dentist. The electro archon has an extremely sweet tooth, and in addition she has a whole array of servants and cooks at her disposal. Pretty much every date/hangout will consist of consuming copious amounts of sugar at one point or another.

• She doesn't really understand that humans need nutrition in different forms, not only sweet mochi and dango. So either try to explain that to her or... eat some protein beforehand.

• Being around Ei is calming. Whether you are an active or a quiet person, somehow her presence just balances everything out inside of you. Messy thoughts turn silky smooth, as just her soothing voice is enough to make you forget your troubles. Who needs a therapist when you have the electro archon?

• While you get to enjoy the tranquility that comes with being in her gentle company, sadly for Ei it is the exact opposite.

• Don't get me wrong, she loves spending time with you but... Ei just cannot shake off the sticky feeling that comes with it. You are a mortal, and mortals die. Their lifespans are short and often insignificant, little flickering candles that die out in a moment compared to how long she has lived.

• The thought simmers inside of her with each passing day, painfully reminding her of what she has felt when Makoto passed. Thoughts of eternity are mixed into this painful concoction as she wonders, has she made the right decision?

• However the archon is wise. She is a deity that has lived for many a millennia, and remembers the lessons she has learned through healing and self-discovery. The precious moments in life will hold no meaning If she staggers their flow. What matters is the now, she will worry about the later when it comes.

• Your relationship is neither public or private, because she doesn't exactly care If anybody knows. If danger is to come for you, because somebody with malicious intentions finds out you are affiliated with her -- Ei can protect you, no doubt about it. So it doesn't truly matter If somebody is aware of it or not. I would worry about Miko finding out, which she of course will, because that kitsune will not ever stop teasing the both of you about it.

• The one to think about marriage the least. It's not in the cards for either of you, and as she is slowly letting go of the idea of eternity, the symbol of "eternal love" can be a bit too ironic.

• Overall, a relationship with her is the exact opposite of the one with Furina. It is calm, secure, and loving, everything that a wounded soul like her would need to heal and keep on living. You are the light of her days, and no matter how fleeting, Ei will cherish every memory made together.

FURINA

• You know how the traveller is considered to be the saviour of many nations, due to their heroic acts? Saving cities from destruction and stuff, and how their journeys are super dangerous? Well, you made their job 10 times more difficult. Because Furina's act just went up by a mile.

• The citizens of the city of Justice simply cannot be happier that you exist, because around you, their beloved Lady puts on an even better, grand performance (in hopes of impressing you.)

• Chief Justice, however? Pray for him and his nerves.

• As long as you are present beside her in court, she tends to be in a better mood during the trials, even the ones she would normally consider boring. After all, how can she be bored If her precious mortal is right by her side?

• At the same time however, her emotions are bursting out of her, with you around. Yes she is in a better mood and more agreeable to compromise, but this drama queen cannot hold back from showing off in front on her partner. You are the only one who can influence her. So, you have to physically sit her down, and your conversations during trial are often something along the lines of:

“In my holy opinion, you are utmost guilty!”

“Love, he just asked a question, let’s not make assumptions just yet.”

“UGH, fine🙄”

• Will make comments during trials that are guaranteed to be the foulest roasts you have ever heard. The entire time you two are just trash-talking everyone, gossiping like high-schoolers.

• The hydro archon cannot get enough of you, but she is highly inexperienced in relationships. Therefore she will be flustered to initiate anything, but will brush it off with a mocking laugh. She adores acting all high and mighty, like you are lucky to even be around her (It’s the other way around). However If you were the one to touch her out of nowhere, she would practically melt, trying her best not to cling onto you like a koala.

• (Sometimes however, she does cling like a koala.)

• PDA is a bit iffy, because she does get extremely flustered, but she wants everybody; and I mean everybody to know that you are hers. So the Lady Justice will sit there, head up high with pride, blush all over her face, boasting about how she is the best of archons and of course has the best partner. Kiss her on the cheek and watch steam come out of her ears.

• Lady Furina is the type to say “Eyes on me” to her partner, but not in a suggestive way, no. She just wants yours undivided attention, and will get annoyed If she can’t have it 24/7. Please for the love of everything, set boundaries with her. She is a being that has lived for hundreds of years, she has no idea what that is.

• Kisses with her are a bit awkward, stiff even. She would never allow for them in public (only on the cheek is okay, since she prefers not to get too flustered). Which means they would be intimately shared only between the two of you. Furina would drop the act ever so slightly, her truthful nature slipping out. The scared of rejection, terrified of losing you nature, which she hides underneath so many covers of her flamboyant personality. Perhaps, this vulnerability is what makes her kisses so emotional and so very her.

• Despite the fact that she can be a bit much, she tries to be as caring as possible around you. As someone who spends days and days analysing criminals, she picks up on behavioural patterns very easily. Therefore, as soon as you are upset, she is on the case, looking for a way to get you smiling again. She will drop anything and everything to be at your side If you need her, because you are just that important to her.

• However having said that, she is not the best at picking her words sometimes. Furina can be a little offensive with her comments, so just let her know it bothers you. After all she does care for you, and would hate having you hurt.

• Will not apologize. Unless she has tremendously fucked up, don't expect any verbal apology. Focalors is like Slavic parents, instead of saying “I’m sorry”, she will bring you a gift and tell you to stop sulking. After all, she’s the god of Justice, she’s not used to being wrong.

• The one archon out of all in Teyvat to think about marriage the most. I mean she is the holy deity and persona number one in her own court, she can arrange that whenever and however she wants. As your relationship progresses, Furina finds herself daydreaming about you and her having a majestic wedding. The thought makes her giddy with excitement.

• Dates with this archon are spontaneous, and are probably the most unique you have had in your life. I mean, who else would take you sightseeing into the abyss? Yeah, only this one.

• Can be a Karen to service workers whenever you go to restaurants. Don’t let her, or she’ll never stop.

• Overall, being in a relationship with Focalors is spontaneous, fun and lively. Never a dull moment with her, but she can be overbearing and a bit clueless. Have patience for her, she does truly love you after all, as much as a deity can.

+

• Catching Focalors’s attention in the first place is not that difficult, for one reason. Yes, she seeks constant entertainment and you would think that she needs a jester for a partner to keep her in a relationship. But due to her tendencies and the fact that everyone only adores her for the dramatics she puts on, she can get quite lonely.

• No one really knows or understands the hydro archon for who she is, therefore she is terrified of slipping up, making a mistake, showing any sign that she isn't all mighty and all knowing.

• So If you manage to see past that façade, and not make fun of her for it? Take her heart, It's already yours.

[cupcakeslushie]

Hello,

HOLLY SH*T (about the last update)

When Leo gets his memories back does he also remember those (f*cking)400 days?

How would Leo have grown up to be like, if his memories weren't taken from him? (would he have become kind of like Donnie?)

will he ever open up to someone about this?

Does he have some kind of triggers left from the experience, even though his memories wee taken from it?

I adore your work and Have a great week 😁

1. 🤗

2. So, Leo’s issues are like a leak in a dam constantly trying to be held back. Kitsune’s magic can suppress or manipulate his memories, but a lot still manage to get through. Hence the need for the repeated sessions, and then later the Empyrean, to act as a booster to her magic—as Leo has built up a tolerance over the years, making it less and less effective. Leo does remember some things. Unfortunately, every time he starts to ask questions, he’s been so conditioned to seek out Kitsune to ‘fix’ his mind and suppress his emotions. But some of his memories were impossible to erase completely. They followed him around like little shadows, haunting him, and his choices. Leo is not stupid. He more discerning than he let’s on, and like Saki said, fear can be a powerful motivator. By the time Leo’s managed to claw his way up to a better position, he’s been fed so many lies that he doesn’t even trust his own reasoning. It’s just easier, and less painful to follow orders, no matter what his brain is constantly trying to tell him.

3. Tbh Leo probably wouldn’t have been very different from how he is. Shredder is a lot more…calculating in his abuse of Leo, than Draxum was for Donnie. Draxum was so unpredictable and volatile in his abuse. Everything that Donnie tried to do better, never seemed to help lessen his torture. It was just pain for the sake of pain. Shredder may be a monster, but his abuse had a goal—to make a warrior he could puppet into killing Yoshi. Saki didn’t just provide constant trauma, he gave positive reinforcement when Leo did something right, and used careful manipulation to bend Leo over to his side. All Kitsune’s spell did was make it easier and faster. If Shredder hadn’t had magic at his disposal, then it would’ve just taken more time and effort to break Leo and remold him, or Shredder might’ve just cut his losses and killed him.

4. Leo doesn’t want to burden his brothers with things that have already passed, and that feeling only gets stronger after he’s been saved from the Dark Armor. He’s constantly insisting that he doesn’t feel one way or the other from those days. It happened, but he says he feels so disconnected from it all. Leo’s earlier return to his family had already been filled with so much fighting, thanks to his withdrawals when he was first brought home causing him to act so erratic. Leo thinks as long as he’s not shouting at his brothers, or trying to attack Splinter, that he’s dealing with everything pretty well. Obviously that’s bullshit. But he’s gonna do a lot of healing during his trip with Usagi.

5. Leo’s worst triggers are when his family is in danger. Those times are when he falls back into either total bloodlust, or a more ruthless mentality, in order to protect them. Leo getting recaptured and thrown back into a cell will be like a wave of memories and trauma hitting him at full force. Like I’ve mention in point 1. He never totally forgot certain things, but the months spent free of Kitsune’s influence makes his second capture so much worse. He’ll be feeling all that fear and panic unfiltered, for the first time in years, and he’ll be able to recall the true horror of it—not the watered down, warped simulacrum Shredder wanted him to remember. Which loops back to point 4 about Leo’s lack of admitting his feelings being a coping mechanism. Once he gets rescued, unconsciously, he’s trying to mimic the dampening effect of Kitsune’s spell, by insisting through sheer force of will, that everything is fine. He can only convince himself that he’s unaffected by everything he’s experienced for so long.

6. Thank you!!! I hope you have an amazing week as well!

I’m sorry if this is kinda rambling, all these ideas be more clearly implemented in the comic, (at least I hope lol).

I also can’t remember how long ago I’ve even talked about Leo’s memory problems in one of these replies. I might be totally backtracking cause I think I’ve said before his memory was wiped completely, but I’ve been thinking it would give more complexity to his choices, if it was revealed his memory was actually more intact than Mikey’s this whole time. Mikey brain just needed a little boost from Raph, because his issue came more from him being so young that things faded over time. With Leo, it’s like a battle where his brain is trying to latch on to what it can to fight the effects of Kitsune’s spell. So his memory may be full of holes and beaten with a stick over and over, but it’s still knocking around in Leo’s head.

[nuggetofthesea]

Chapter: "The Dark Witch's warning"

The Dark Witch, they called her. Known throughout Hyper city for many reasons. Transformation services, potions, her eerie appearance, the tower in which she resides, but more importantly, her affinity for monsters.

Creatures of the night, eldritch horrors, spirits, the witch has a fascination with them all. Often labeled as dangerous just for existing, sometimes actually dangerous, but always interesting.

That witch is Iris. Iris is hyper city's transformation witch and has a Fondness of all things supernatural and arcane. One of the darkmage nugget system, famous for running a studio that houses a lab underneath. Years before Animal HRT hit hyper city, It was when the original owner of the body, Ashe offered herself as an experiment to the lab owner, the witch appeared. And the rest of us.

Ashe, the original host. Former human. Now kitsune. Runs the darkmage nugget studio. She now has the ability to change her shape at any time. Uses it to be a fox.

Iris, the dark witch with a skill for energy manipulation and transformation. Needs her magic to transform unlike Ashe. But now owns the body after Ashe couldn't feel connected to it.

Aqua, an elf with strong connection to the sea and a desire to write. Trapped in nightmares for 15 years before the experiments. Leaving her a walking shadow at times.

Chaos, a destructive gremlin hellbent on causing mayhem. Trouble find us and she is the first to step up to the fight.

Mira, A crystal fairy construct capable of multiplying herself up to 30 identical copies. Organizes things in our head.

Aria, former strong silent type, now basically a puppy with muscles. Sweet, but still willing to protect everyone.

We were always a presence in Ashe's head since she was young. But the experiments brought us to the front. 6 souls inhabiting the body of the dark witch. When we aren't in the studio, or around town, we reside in Iris' tower just off the park in hyper city. a round tower that sits in the middle of a small yard fenced off with stone. A witch hat made of bricks covers the top of the tower, that overlooks the city and the surrounding woods.

Iris in particular though, found herself with a curiosity she needed to satisfy. The monsters and mysteries of hyper city. Is there more too them? More than meets the eye? In some instances, she also found herself weirdly attracted by the monsters that roam the city. Finding beauty where the rest of the world shuns away. This led to her often interacting with those cast out. Those who aren't human. And hyper city was the perfect place to satiate that desire for the unknown.

A city in the center of realities, in the middle of all possibilities. Iris soon was going to make the possibilities hers. She was often seen making deals or helping out the various creatures and horrors she came across. Earning her the title of… "The Dark Witch" as most humans began to fear her. At least until they know her. Then they realize, magic aside, She's actually very friendly when she wants to be. And even helped in making the animal HRT her friends have utilized to transform their bodies to their will.

This though was the move that led to this encounter.

One particularly stressful day, Ashe had left the studio to head home. But was on her way to stop for some food and anything heavily caffeinated. (Required for all the things we do).

As she turned a corner she found her heart suddenly sinking. every nerve in her body in shock. Frozen in fear as the fur on her paws and tails stood on end. Something was coming. Quickly, Ashe began to call to Iris. This was her specialty after all. Iris quickly came to front. Taking a moment to make the body hers again as she wasn't used to using Ashe's paws or her tails. Summoning her staff, she questioned what was around that corner.

Only to see a sad looking eldritch creature. Keeping an ear out, she could hear people around calling the being a freak or hiding in fear. they looked ready to cry. A quick read of her energy and Iris knew she wasn't a threat. But to everyone else, She looked like the most horrifying thing they could see.

Not iris. iris had the ability to read aura's by concentrating on a person's energy. And hers was all over the place. But Iris recognized a small hint in the overwhelmingly powerful aura of fear. Some of that energy, was hers. Twisted and distorted by some outside forces, but this definitely the result of the Animal HRT tablets. But wherever she got these ones, they had very little of the original left, and it was extremely powerful.

"FREAK! MONSTER! get out of here!" was shouted at her from those she passed. And iris was growing quite tired of this. using her staff, gem glowing on the end strongly, she called on a circle with a single word.

"Mute" Iris said as the spell was cast. Suddenly, the sounds of the crowd were drowned out. All went silent. Though they still moved. A temporary effect, but just enough for them to take notice of Iris just there. A glare from the glowing yellow eye piercing the gaze of the crowd as they pieced together what had happened and ran.

"Hey. You okay?" Iris asked the horror before her.

No response as she was a bit confused as to what was happening. What was with this witch? even magical beings tend to fear her.

"Don't know where you are heading. But that had to get pretty annoying. I'm Iris. your name is?"

…

She began to speak up. Looking to figure this situation out.

"Mars. Alright. What's your angle."

Not even realizing the distortion she was doing with her face and the accidental piercing stare with her eyes.

"I'm a witch who can see into your very being past the admittedly strong fear aura you emit. But beyond that, I have a pretty big interest both in what you are, and where you got your humanity removal treatment."

"WHAT!? How do you-" "My energy is all over that fear aura. but you definitely got that from somewhere i haven't given that info to. you don't have to talk here, especially with others watching.. But know I am someone you can turn to and want to support you."

Iris reaches into the air and snaps her fingers. in a small flame a card appears in her hands.

"My tower is just past the woods in the park. if you ever need help, look me up and use that card to come to my tower."

"I'll consider it. But for now, I need to get going. I'm running late as is." Mars responds. not knowing what to make of this conversation and wanting to leave it as soon as possible.

"That's fine. But I do need you to know…" Iris' eyes turn to mars her one eye showing more piercing than ever. "Something latched on to a spell i created."

Perhaps you know what happened to make it so, but there are probably eyes on you. The tower is blocked from all outside eyes. No matter how powerful. If you need help, Do not hesitate to seek it."

Iris then begins to walk away. Leaving more questions than answers with Mars. Iris did always like being a little cryptic. Not many know what is going on in her head. But one thing she always takes seriously is when someone messes with her spells.

End Chapter

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

I wanted to do more to establish Iris. And Mars' ( @dawning-mars ) latest page brought a few ideas I've wanted to write down for a few days now. One moment of "Why would ancient texts spawn a modern pill bottle" thoughts later, this story was born. Had fun writing again as usual. ^-^

[wickedsrest-rp]

The fading of magic was hard to notice at first. In fact, those not attuned to its energy noticed no difference at all. While spellcasters might have taken quick notice in the shift and fae might have found an unfamiliar difficulty in casting glamours, those unattuned to the magic that previously flowed through Wicked’s Rest were unlikely to recognize the cost their victory against the demon brought. But for a town as infused with magic as Wicked’s Rest once was, it was only a matter of time before the status quo was broken by its absence in a way that even the most unaware humans would begin to recognize. Things taken for granted were suddenly turned on their heads. Things once thought safe were revealed to be dangerous all along.

It began with small cases. An insurance salesman stumbled upon an aos sí previously hidden with magic and was quickly slaughtered by the territorial fae who resided there, a kitsune who relied on the magic of Daybreak’s Roost found it suddenly lacking, a vampire who used a magically infused amulet to longer periods of time in the sun burned to dust under its rays instead. These individual cases proved that the fading of magic wasn’t something that posed a threat to spellcasters and fae alone, but could still be written off as one-offs that didn’t affect the larger population. 

That was, of course, until the surge. It was an unremarkable day with no indication of the chaos that was about to erupt, but without warning, the magical energy field that has always blanketed this supernatural hub flickered. It wasn’t a wavering that was itself visible, though the effects certainly were. For a brief moment, the strength of magic dipped low enough that anyone who relied on it to remain hidden was suddenly exposed. Any spellcasting being done at this time utterly failed, and magical artifacts sputtered as their effectiveness nosedived. It was a brief dip – long enough to cause fright among the humans that saw something they couldn’t explain, but short enough that those affected could probably outrun the consequences. But after the brownout came the surge, where the magical intensity of the town’s power source flared to hitherto unprecedented levels. While it restored glamours and spells, it also forced shapeshifters into a shift and ignited an intense hunger and bloodlust within them and the undead. Some were able to suppress this urge if they cared to, but others were not so lucky. The surge itself was also brief, cut short by a second low dip in magic, and then everything seemed to return to normal. Or… the new normal. Something definitely felt off now, even to the magically uninitiated. 

MORE INFO:

Magical fluctuations have become more difficult to hide. The surge was a brief event, but even those unaware of the supernatural are likely to have noticed something. Because of this, whispers are beginning to ripple through the town. Unaware humans may be scrambling to rationalize things they saw and experienced, while those interested in covering up the supernatural are spread thin searching for explanations to each individual experience.

For shifters and the undead, the surge caused a lapse in control. Shifters were forced into their bestial form, and even those with relatively solid control of their animal instincts would have struggled to keep a lid on themselves. The undead would have felt a sudden, intense hunger that may have sent them into a feeding frenzy. The surge may have only lasted a brief moment, but a brief moment without control can go a long way for those with teeth and claws.

The brief magical brownout that sandwiched the surge saw glamours of all kinds temporarily failing. Fae appeared in their true forms, and locations hidden or changed by glamours were briefly out in the open, allowing anyone to see inside. This may have resulted in humans wandering into aos sí, or hunters uncovering supernatural societies that were previously hidden from them.

Household fae were not immune from the fluctuations, either. Reports of townspeople — human and otherwise — suddenly coming face to face with small creatures they had no idea shared their home flooded in moments after the brownout, making the magical nature of the town harder and harder to hide… and leading to questions from those who previously knew nothing of the world hidden before their eyes.

[theomeganerd]

Ghost of Yōtei comes to PlayStation 5 on October 2

We are so excited to announce that Ghost of Yōtei comes to PS5 on October 2, 2025! 

It’s been nearly five years since we shipped Ghost of Tsushima, and in that time we’ve been hard at work making Ghost of Yōtei something special. While the stories are unrelated, it’s important to us to make this a worthy follow-up to Jin’s journey, and we can’t wait for you to experience Atsu’s quest for vengeance later this year.

Alongside today’s news, we’ve also released our latest trailer for Ghost of Yōtei, “The Onryō’s List.” Sixteen years ago in the heart of Ezo (called Hokkaido in present day), a gang of outlaws known as the Yōtei Six took everything from Atsu. They killed her family and left her for dead, pinned to a burning ginkgo tree outside her home. But Atsu survived. She learned to fight, to kill, and to hunt, and after years away she has returned to her home with a list of six names: The Snake, The Oni, The Kitsune, The Spider, The Dragon, and Lord Saito. 

We hope the brief looks in today’s trailer give you a taste of what you can expect from Ghost of Yōtei. Beyond your first look at the Yōtei Six, you’ll spot some of the gorgeous scenery of Ezo as well as a handful of Atsu’s new weapons, a few of her allies, and even a new gameplay mechanic that will allow you to glimpse Atsu’s past and understand everything that was taken from her. 

But we’ve only scratched the surface. In Ghost of Yōtei, we’ve built upon and evolved the way you explore the open world, offering even more freedom and variety than in Ghost of Tsushima. You’ll choose which leads to follow as you pick which Yōtei Six member you want to hunt down first. Atsu can also track other dangerous targets and claim bounties, or seek out weapon sensei to learn new skills. Ezo is wild, and as deadly as it is beautiful. As you trek across the open world you’ll find unexpected dangers and peaceful reprieves (including some returning activities from Tsushima), and you’ll be able to build a campfire anywhere in the open world for a rest under the stars. We want you to have the freedom to explore Ezo however you decide to, and we can’t wait to share more.

Today we can also reveal that pre-orders for Ghost of Yōtei begin next week, on May 2 at 10:00 AM in your local timezone (10:00 AM ET for those in the US), and you’ll be able to choose between multiple different editions, including our amazing Collector’s Edition.

First, if you pre-order any edition of Ghost of Yōtei you’ll receive a unique in-game mask, as well as a set of seven PSN avatars featuring concept art of Atsu and each member of the Yōtei Six at launch1. Pre-orders on PlayStation Store will receive the avatars immediately. 

The standard edition of Ghost of Yōtei will be $69.99 USD / £69.99 / €79.99 / ¥8,980 MSRP and will be available at retail or at PlayStation Store.

At PlayStation Store, you’ll also be able to pre-order the Ghost of Yōtei Digital Deluxe Edition for $79.99 / £79.99 / €89.99 / ¥9,980 MSRP.

The Digital Deluxe Edition includes a digital copy of Ghost of Yōtei plus in-game bonuses including The Snake’s armor set, as well as an alternate dye for your starting armor. You’ll also receive a unique horse color and unique saddle dye, plus an in-game Charm, gold Sword Kit, and an early unlock of Traveler’s Maps, which allow you to find statues throughout the world to upgrade your skills. 

Finally, we are thrilled to reveal the Ghost of Yōtei Collector’s Edition2, which will be available for pre-order at direct.playstation.com in parts of the world where it is available, or at select retailers in other regions. Collector’s Edition pricing will be announced at a later date.

This packed edition includes all of the pre-order bonuses, all in-game items from the Digital Deluxe Edition, and a digital copy of the game3, as well as a replica display edition of Atsu’s Ghost mask. The mask is built to-scale with Jin’s mask from our Ghost of Tsushima Collector’s Edition. If you have both, they look great next to each other on a shelf! The mask measures 6.8 x 5 x 5.9 inches and is made of resin, plus includes its own display stand. 

Also included is a replica of Atsu’s sash, complete with the names of all six members of the Yōtei Six (but you’ll have to cross them off yourself). The sash measures 71 inches long and is made of a cotton blend, a perfect cosplay accessory or wall decoration. 

There’s also a replica of the Tsuba from Atsu’s katana, forged by her father in the image of two twin wolves. This Tsuba measures roughly 3 x 3 inches and also includes its own display stand. 

In addition to all of the above, the Ghost of Yōtei Collector’s Edition also includes a pouch of coins and instructions to play Zeni Hajiki, a game of skill you’ll play throughout Ghost of Yōtei. There’s also a foldable papercraft ginkgo tree along with a wolf at its base, and a set of four 5 x 7-inch art cards featuring the sash, the wolf, Atsu’s Ghost mask, and our key art. 

We think this is the best Collector’s Edition we’ve ever produced, and we can’t wait for you to get your hands on it on October 2. 

While pre-orders don’t open until May 2, you can wishlist Ghost of Yōtei right now at PlayStation Store and sign up to receive notifications as we release more information in the months to come. 

We are so proud of Ghost of Yōtei and have many more exciting things we can’t wait to show you as we approach our release date. We are incredibly appreciative of all the support for Ghost of Tsushima and grateful for everyone who played, and hope you’ll look forward to following the wind once again on October 2. 

[ghostlehh]

I met someone who I at least think saw my Kitsune form once…. I genuinely at least hoped no one would be able to see it.

But one day at work I was doing my thing, this person walks up to me and as soon as making eye contact yelled like she saw something scary and ran out of the store 😭

I never saw them again since, but it was a really strange experience having someone do that to me. Now I wonder if maybe they just were under the influence of some type of drug or something…

The only other experience I’ve had with someone somehow seeing my Kitsune form was when I was just hanging out with some people I knew, I had never told any of these people about my nonhumanity or anything of the like. And randomly someone from one of the groups comes up to me and says “oh you’re a Kitsune” and I’m like “what??” And they say “yeah, hey guys _ is a Kitsune theyre dangerous stay away from them!”

And I kept trying to convince this guy I was harmless and “wasn’t” a kitsune but I mean, I already knew I am one. He just kept saying that while looking really scared of me… it was EXTREMELY weird given the fact no one knew about me being nonhuman or anything like that. They all thought he was saying nonsense of course.

Just some person somehow was able to see me.. and that makes 2 people. and no I’m not even making things up, it actually happened irl 😭 unfortunately…

[lukedanger]

Owlcatober - Day 16 - Invisible

The results of Nenio's latest experiment with Greater Extended Spell for @owlcatober.

[Ao3 Link]

===

“Iomedae’s armored tits, Nenio! Why?!”

“Observation: Book-Paladin swears by the sexually dimorphic characteristics of her patron deity, but only if they are armored.”

Elaina glared at Nenio as the kitsune seemed to be blissfully unaware of what kind of trouble she was in.

Anevia wasted no time getting back to it. “Right, that’s why I called the Espionage Council together. If this was a saboteur like we thought, or some demons sneaking in the hard way, we wouldn’t need you for it. Instead…”

Elaina nodded. The Espionage Council was the unofficial fifth council, headed by Anevia and attended to most frequently by Woljif, Arueshalae, and Greybor. Much as she had for Irabeth, Anevia took care of the nitty-gritty details of espionage. Paladins were not forbidden to be aware of it - Heaven has spyglass archons after all - but there were some options that they would have to forbid outright if aware. Anevia was a rare rogue who respected the why, could be trusted to only use that leeway if necessary, and was willing to do it.

Sometimes, though, something was too big to not involve the Knight-Commander. Such as, in this case, the conclusion of a long series of incidents that they had believed to be the work of an invisible saboteur.

“Nenio,” Elaina began, “could you please walk me through the experiments you were trying to do? Or better yet, tell me how you did them?”

“Quite simple, assistant! The mythic power that has passed onto me has allowed me to bypass the normal limitations of spell duration. I believe that any spell that lasts more than five minutes will now last an entire day. It is quite exciting as it removes the need to conventionally hide myself and allows prolonged observation!”

“You replaced holy water with Taldan fire!” Arueshalae complained, “If the priest was not diligent in checking it before using it for temple services…”

“I had believed that holy water used for rites was separate from that used in battle. Clearly, my hypothesis was incorrect.”

“Don’t forget the beehives you put in place of the combat dummy heads,” Greybor observed, taking a puff of his pipe. “Caused quite the ruckus.”

“And now we have valuable information on how soldiers react to sudden swarms! This will no doubt allow the instructors to prepare them for more dangerous opponents like vescavors!” Nenio folded her arms. “Data is data.”

“So, what’re we doin’ to her chief?” Woljif asked as he leaned back. “I’m thinkin’ a prank for a prank.”

“Sharing the plans to prank with the target tends to be counter-productive to the success of the process.”

“Yeah, you’ll just forget it as irrelevant in ten minutes.”

“Hazards to my safety are always relevant. How else will I finish the Encyclopedia?”

Elaina looked at Anevia, who was wordlessly uncorking the large bottle of mead she had brought, and started pouring into the wooden mugs.

[2baddiesfanfics]

Not Me, Not You...Us

Pairing: Ei x Miko

Tags: Angst, Arguing, Oral Sex, Cunnilingus, Vaginal Fingering, Archons (Genshin Impact), Soul Bond, Angst with a Happy Ending, Angst and Hurt/Comfort

Summary:

When Miko defies Ei during a meeting in front of her retainers, the Shogun is furious. Upset by the slight, the kitsune takes it personally and demands an apology. How will her girlfriend prove that their bond is more than just that of archon and familiar?

Read on Ao3

“Lady Guuji, that’s enough. Do not make me repeat myself,” Ei said, a strong tone of warning underlying her words. The eyes of her attendants watched nervously as the conversation began to escalate quickly.

“Your Excellency, please. You must see reason. The shrine does not require the protection of the Tenryou Commission. Would you really trust Kujou Sara’s opinion over mine? Need I remind you who acted in your stead while you were off playing pretend in the Plane of Euthymia? I can handle any pending danger, I assure you.”

“Yae Miko!” The Shogun’s voice shook the room like thunder. “You will hold your tongue. While you may be head shrine maiden, you have no experience in military matters. You know full well there’s been a rise in the number of rogue bandits around Mt. Yougou. The Grand Narukami Shrine may not be under the jurisdiction of the Shogunate, but it is still under the authority of the Electro Archon. As my familiar, you are obligated to do as I command. Unless you feel your duties must come to an end over something so trifling as a petty argument?”

The kitsune could feel one of her fangs break the skin of the inside of her bottom lip as she struggled not to snap back at her with one of her trademark sarcastic retorts. It was one thing when they were alone - in front of members of the Shogunate was another entirely.

“Ahem. Forgive my insolence, Your Excellency,” Miko replied, the Shogun’s title dripping with disdain. “But I refuse to run away with my tails between my legs like a frightened little pup. If those rascals want to attempt something so foolish, I’d prefer to take care of them myself.”

The chair Ei was sitting in pulled back with a loud screech as she stood out of anger. “This isn’t a debate. You seem to be under the illusion you have a choice in this matter. Sara will station at least four members of the commission around the shrine to ensure you and the other maidens are adequately protected in the event of an attack. This is the word of your Archon. Obey, or lose your status as my familiar. Effective immediately.”

Miko was blinded by rage. Bowing her head in an effort to hide her emotions, she cleared her throat, bent at her waist, and firmly stated, “Understood.” She turned to exit the meeting room and swiftly wiped her face with the sleeves of her kimono.

Heading back to the room she secretly shared with the Shogun when she spent time at Tenshukaku, she crawled into her futon to let her tears drench the pillow.

—————————

Worn from the emotions that had overtaken her, the guuji woke a few hours later to what appeared to be an empty room.

What am I, stupid? Of course she never came after me. What message would that send to her advisors? She’s an Archon and I’m just her…

Once again, she felt her eyes start to water. What was she to Ei? Had she really been foolish enough to think the Shogun held her in such high regard? Or was she merely a tool for her to use when it was convenient?

She flopped back down onto the pillow, her ears twitching as she contemplated how she’d approach Ei when she returned. If she returned.

“Miko? Are you still here?” The kitsune heard the familiar voice and her heart immediately slammed in her chest. Damnit. Of course she still loved the woman.

She knew things would be difficult given her status and the need to maintain her reputation among the public. But that didn’t make being with her any easier. The guuji was a strong-willed person, but it didn’t mean she didn’t have feelings.

“That depends. Should I not be, oh great and mighty Archon? Should I have immediately gone back to the shrine and prayed for your forgiveness? Oh, wait, I better ask for permission before I even consider doing so. I am just a lowly familiar, after all.”

Now that it was just the two of them alone on neutral ground, the kitsune felt it safe to be her usual self. Ei was clearly not in the mood.

“Miko. How many times have I told you that – except under extreme circumstances - you cannot directly defy me in front of my subjects? I don’t know how much clearer I can be. I’m the ruler and god of this nation. I cannot appear weak.”

The guuji let out a laugh of disbelief. “So that’s how you see yourself? A ruler? What about us, Ei? What am I to you? Yes, you’re an Archon. But I’m your familiar. We’re a team. Or at least I thought we were. I suppose now I’m nothing but a warm body for you to take your stress out on. Like a common whore.”

The Shogun dropped to her knees beside her futon. “Would you please stop being so dramatic? This isn’t about us, Miko. You should know where we stand. This is about something bigger than us. This is about you. Don’t you fucking roll your eyes at me, kitsune! Why do you think I was so adamant about having those soldiers at the shrine? Do you think I take pleasure in fighting you? I want them there because I can’t always be there to protect you!”

The guuji grabbed the fabric of the Shogun’s kimono by her shoulders and shook her. “I don’t need your godsdamned protection, Ei! I survived just fine by myself for 500 fucking years! Do you think I’m so weak I can’t take on a few starving ronin? What’s the matter with you?”

Ei’s eyes glowed with the ferocity of bottled lightning. “What’s the matter with me? I love you, Miko! This is more than just a bond we share as Archon and familiar - I love you so much I’d rather take my own life than have to establish some artificial connection with anyone other than you. I am yours, and you are mine. For eternity.”

The two women sat staring at each other, both heaving from the intensity of the argument. Before the kitsune could hit her with a snide comeback, Ei seized her mouth in a searing kiss. The frustration Miko felt melted away with this single act. The Shogun’s lips moved against her own, a hunger evident in her ferocity.

As her familiar, the guuji knew part of an Archon’s power lay in the connection they shared. When one experienced a certain emotion, the other could sense it, too. Depending on the circumstance, this could heighten many things: the will to fight, for instance.

In this case, she could feel Ei’s desire to make things right and reestablish their connection in a physical way. To reverse their roles and praise her familiar in a different sense of the word. The kitsune wasn’t about to fight it. If she wanted to make things up to her, she’d gladly take the princess treatment.

“I hope you’re willing to work for my forgiveness, Ei. You’ll have to be very convincing,” she murmured against the tongue that had found its way into her mouth. The shogun paused and rested her forehead against hers.

“Miko, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you. When it comes to your safety, I know I can get…a little intense,” she said before tenderly kissing her cheek. “It’s just…I can’t imagine not being able to do this anymore.” The guuji yelped as she felt the other woman grip her by her hips and flip her onto her hands and knees.

“Ei! You’re not getting out of this that easily!”

“Oh, I don’t think this is going to be easy. Quite the contrary - I think you’ll be fighting for your life to stay quiet. You say you can handle yourself, but you submit so easily when it comes to my touch,” she taunted as her hand traveled beneath the kitsune’s kimono. Ei could feel her shiver at the feeling of the skin of her palm inching up her thigh.

“Ah…if this is meant to be an…oooo…apology, you better make me come so hard those pitiful advisors of yours hear me the next room…” the guuji sneered.

The Shogun hooked a single elegant finger in the elastic of her panties and slid them down her body at a glacial pace. Miko wriggled impatiently - teasing was her specialty, not Ei’s. To have the tables turned felt both frustrating and exciting at the same time.

“I thought you were mad at me. Your body tells me otherwise,” she said as she observed her wetness glistening in the low light of the candles burning in the room.

“Please. Don’t act so smug. Your ‘all-powerful Archon’ act is getting dull,” Miko said with a roll of her eyes. Secretly she hoped it would get her to move faster.

“I think someone holding power over you turns you on, fox. You may run things at the shrine, but we’re in my domain now.” The guuji felt the Shogun grip the back of her neck firmly. “Now be a good little familiar make some noise for me.”

The kitsune felt two fingers plunge into her from behind and her fangs ripped a hole in the pillow her face was now buried in. Ei twisted and turned her wrist, hitting the spot she knew would make her cry out.

“FUCK! Ei…” she whimpered.

“Oh, I know you can take this, Miko. Perhaps my tongue will be a bit gentler. I’ll have mercy - this time.” She shifted and positioned her mouth next to her opening, lapping up the juices that had seeped out. The kitsune visibly relaxed, her contented sigh muffled by the pillow.

“Mmmm…you taste divine.” Her tongue entered her, delving deeper to draw out louder moans.

“Well, I am…ahh…a shrine maiden…oh fuck…”

Ei chuckled darkly. “That you are. Don’t you worry, pet. You’ll have your chance to worship your Archon. It’s my duty to tend to you first.” The Shogun expertly worked her bud with the tip of her tongue, circling the sensitive bundle of nerves at just the right pressure.

“Ah…ah….ahhhhhh…” Miko huffed, her head swimming with pleasure preventing her from talking back. Ei’s nails sank into the flesh of her hips as she tried to control her bucking against her face.

“Come for your Archon, Miko,” she commanded, and the kitsune arched her back while letting out a yowl of pleasure as she hit her peak.

Ei snagged her by the waist and fell to the futon with her pulled close in a jumbled mess. “So…am I forgiven?”

The guuji hummed as she kissed her, the scent of her own desire still coating the Shogun’s lips. “I suppose that was sufficient for making a fool of me in front of your retinue.”

Ei sighed heavily. “Miko…don’t be like this. Please. What must I do to show you I didn’t mean anything by it? It’s just for appearances, I swear.”

 “I think it’s less about what you should do, and more about what only I can do.”

The other woman cocked an inquisitive eyebrow as she shifted to sit up. “And what exactly is that supposed to mean? Just because you’re a familiar it doesn’t mean you must speak in riddles.”

The kitsune moved to slyly straddle the Shogun’s lap. “My dearest Archon, I’m not speaking in riddles. I merely mean to say you’d never revoke my status as your familiar. Or rather…you couldn’t.”

Ei’s arms snaked around her waist, drawing her nearer. “I still don’t understand what you’re insinuating. I’m your Archon. My word is law.”

“Face the facts, Ei,” Miko whispered as she closed in on her ear. “No one can make you feel the way I do.” Her lips placed slow, gentle kisses across her cheek. “Make you moan the way I do.” The Shogun’s breath hitched in her throat as she felt the kitsune move her mouth down her neck. “Make you come the way I do.”

These were the last words she spoke before her lips pulled away from her teeth to reveal the sharp canines she knew drove Ei insane with lust. Their trysts always did have an animalistic air to them - they frequently battled for dominance, titles be damned. She bit down and pierced the tender flesh that had already grown hot with desire.

“Aghhhhh…Miko…” she ground out through clenched teeth. Pain swirled with pleasure as a trickle of blood dripped down her neck to stain her kimono.

“Oh hush,” she chastised as she licked the fresh wound to soothe it. “I know you like it rough. There aren’t many who’d be able to take you on the way I do and live to tell the tale. You wouldn’t dare give this up now, would you?”

“I can’t argue that,” she murmured before grabbing her face and pulling her in for another kiss. The sharp, acrid taste of iron pricked at her taste buds as she felt Miko’s nails dig into her back. The familiar sting reminded her that though she was an Archon, she was not invincible.

The kitsune knew she was Ei’s one and only weakness. Pushing her back down on the futon, she tore open the front of her kimono, the expensive silk ripping under the force. Palming her breasts, Miko smirked as the woman underneath her sunk into the pillow and heaved a sigh of elation. She could feel her nipples growing hard against the warmth of her fingertips as she toyed with them.

“Miko…stop stalling and get on with it…” the Shogun complained breathily.

“What, the Archon has no patience? Not a good way to set an example for your people…” the other woman taunted. One of her hands snaked down between them, and she could feel Ei swallow hard beneath her as she anticipated the familiar feel of what she knew was coming next.

They locked eyes, and the guuji could feel the rush of emotions she was the cause of. Although she was not a god, she felt as if she were the one with all the power. Ei’s cheeks were flushed and her hands gripped the kitsune’s hips as if she were afraid that if she let go, she’d disappear.

Finally, the Shogun’s hips jolted upward when Miko slipped her fingers inside of her. The other woman felt the Archon’s muscles ripple underneath her as she took her digits with ease.

“Fuck…” she whimpered.

“See, you may control this nation, but never forget…I have the power to control you, dearest.”

“Miko…” The way Ei moaned her name was so tender she almost felt bad for teasing her so. Almost. Her fingers curled as she pumped in and out.

“Submit to me. Tell me what I am to you.”

“You’re…my familiar…”

“Good. But I’m much more than that, now, aren’t I?” She applied pressure to her clit with the heel of her palm as she worked an answer out of her.

“Y-yes…advisor…lover…my everything…gods…please…Miko…”

Her heart warmed at the terms of endearment she rambled off, and she gave in.

“Whatever my Archon wants, I will see to it I provide. Come for me, Ei.” The Shogun jolted forward, her lips searing against the kitsune’s as the force of her orgasm caused her to groan into her mouth.

The fox collapsed on top of her, burying her face into the crux of her neck. The other woman held her in a tight embrace, the two clinging to each other in a wordless mutual surrender.

“…I love you, Miko. Everything I do, I do because I cannot do this alone. Whatever decisions I make, know it is because your life means more to me than my own,” she explained before kissing her temple.

The guuji looked up at her resolutely. “The only reason I fight so fiercely is so I don’t lose my edge. Someone has to keep you in check, Ei. If my shrine maidens can’t count on me for protection, how can I ever hope to live up to being your familiar? We fight as a team. If need be…we die as a team.”

The Shogun let out a heavy breath. “All of this talk of Archons and familiars is so heavy. Let’s speak about morbid subjects no longer,” she requested as she lifted her lover’s hand to her lips and kissed the back of it. “Tonight…let’s just be Miko and Ei.”

[jariten]

Recurring themes in 2023: Of Furries and Creatures

A fun recurring theme was the anthros and little creatures I encountered this year, so I thought I'd give them a little corner of their own.

Mugi to Pes: Monsters Diary by Parari Kuma-san no Shiki by Shinji Wada Nightmare of Dogs by Kitsune Tsukimori Chiikawa by Nagano

I don't think any mainstream attempt at using fantasy creatures or anthropomorphic animals to do social commentary that parallel our world will fully escape the trappings of fantasy racism. And while not escaping those clumsy pitfalls I thought Mugi to Pes took a very interesting approach to using non-human species as social commentary. Mixing stories that could serve as parallels to real life and ones that exist purely do the internal politics of the universe. (What sort of targeted harassment could a centaur gamer face on twitch?) Especially liked how a lot of the creatures in this world aren't cis-normative in the human sense. For example the story of a female hyena and her experiences being fetishized or harassed due to her genitalia was something I didn't expect, not to mention like half the cast are gay reflecting the demographics of real life furries 👍 The source manga of super sensation Chiikawa also does a fun mix or real life "relatable" comedy while crafting a very elaborate world where little creatures have to earn a living doing menial labor and sometimes encounter danger, but all is well as long as you got your friends to discover and eat giant food with.

The next picks are more on the fairy tale like than the former. Nightmare of Dogs follow Canis as she travels around the world where she encounter dogs with colorful personalities and intense neuroses that isolate them. What they all have in common are the disturbing nightmares of humans that haunt them every night. I love travelogue like series (and dont read nearly enough) and while the series themes were at times a little heavy handed I really liked Tsukimori's artistic expression and will be eagerly waiting for more. Kuma-san no Shiki by Shinji Wada is I think my first time reading his work, and the furthest from his usual fare. A passion project he had wanted to make before he had even debuted, Kuma-san no Shiki is a series of fairy tale like stories following the lives of animals in an ambiguously eastern european forest. But life in the forest can be treacherous. Harsh seasons, internal politics between the animals in the forest, and loss must all be navigated by the titular Kuma-san as the year passes

[pocketramblr]

Please, 5 headcanons for an AU where Yoichi and All for One survived alone on the streets as babies because they were something other than human.

You can pick any nonhuman creature but if you don't have ideas here are some suggestions:

-All for One was a manifestation of Yoichi's quirk like Dark Shadow. Yoichi unconsciously created him to keep himself safe.

-They were kitsunes (or some other Japanese mythological creature)

-They are half god (pantheon of your choice)

-They're aliens (based off the in-canon theory that quirks originated from an alien lifeform)

1- Gushima Satoyo was in her last semester of college when she was abducted by aliens. Satoyo didn't know it at the time: she was knocked out as the aliens- who are basically their planet's equivalent of grad students themselves- did a health scan. They realized she was a few weeks pregnant, but there was something unusual in their growth. A bit of research told them that this species could have multiple births, but it was rare and dangerous. Without their intervention, the smaller fetus wouldn't make it, and the bigger one only had slightly better odds. So they intervened, checked over the rest of her, tagged her arm so others would know she'd been seen and they could track her, then returned her where they got her.

2- except... It wasn't exactly where she'd been taken from. And it was weeks later. When Satoyo finally made it back home, she'd been assumed to have run away, she'd missed all her exams and been dropped from school, her boyfriend had moved on with her best friend and roommate, and her family had freaked out about her possible breakdown and or death. She was glad to be back home at first, but her family smothered her, still half grieving , and no one believed she didn't know what happened, had been terrified to wake up somewhere else. But her family would rather send her to a hospital than back to school, so, she actually does run away.

3- the tag on her arm are strange spikey bumps, but they don't really hurt and she can't afford a hospital, so Satoyo does what she needs to be able to afford a hotel most nights. It's tricky, to get a job without an address, even not taking into account the lack of degree or experience. Then, she realizes she's pregnant. She actually been pregnant for seven months, but the alien treatment has kept her from noticing any symptoms till now- and a month later she collapses, going into labor.

4- the tag wouldn't have mutated into a quirk in any species of beetle or most species of fish- so the aliens had little reason to expect an effect on humans. But the tag plus their treatment did- the babies are born with white hair and pupils, and one baby has inverted tag spikes in his palms, the other hidden inside his body, inside his bones. They don't require only milk, like normal humans do. They can hold their breath, have improved motor skills. The babies survive what they never should have been able to.

5- a year and a half before the glowing baby was born, the man that would be their father was kidnapped by a set of aliens too. In fact, a lot of early quirk users either were kidnapped themselves, or the children of people who were. AfO can steal the quirks of people born to the ex-lab rats, and anyone who was tagged by an alien group using the same brand of tags as what he got, but not anyone who was directly experimented on by aliens using another brand. Don't worry he gets around that by just killing those people, and soon there isn't a lot of people in that category anyway. Partly because how many he killed, but also partly because after a few alien authorities saw the tags were clearly messing up the life forms on earth, they told the students they couldn't use it anymore. But even though they left, quirks persist, a strange reaction to the alien tags, contagious and lingering in the genes... Not that anyone really knows that's how it happened. Maybe Nedzu suspects.

[delta-drawsarts]

Fox clover au.

After the experiment chujin did to save clover life witch resulted clover becoming a fox monster/kitsune like the ketsukane family.

I can see clover freaking out onch he woken up. But clam down after chujin or Ceroba reassures them it ok and there safe.

I can see.

Ceroba

Would give clover the same rules as kanako. Like rule one don't listen to starlo about cool place because sead cool places are extremely dangerous and not safe to venter in.

Chujin

May or may not accept clover into the family ya he did do a dangerous experiment to save his life but he was onch a human but he a monster now.

Kanako.

New siblings acquired and now prank war or siblings rivalry.

But what about clover.

He a monster now and actually fit in. Been adopted by a family who are monster. He get to learn magic. Down side.

He can no longer go to the wild east. Or dangerous adventures. alone like he use to become Ceroba won't let him out of her sight for five minutes. In fear of him getting hurt again.

But best Question is how would he adjust to being a monster and wearing Japanese clothing instead of his cowboy clothing

Honestly, I don't think Clover would be freaking out. Just confused why they have paws, snout, and a tail. I feel like their magic would be unique, like in the final boss fights in UTY. Able to shoot small bullets out of their Soul, or in this case their finger guns (bc you gotta have the finger guns bro) They have a lot to learn about being a Monster, but they're not alone!

And yah, probably sibling rivalry/pranks if the kiddos are devious enough. (Ideas are welcomed)

Ceroba going protective Mom mode would fit in, and she would definitely make sure Clover doesn't leave the house by themselves. There's all kinds of danger for a human/monster hybrid! Even tho Clover can now live safely in the Underground, her A Mother's Love just wants to keep them safe. Will probably cause problems later on.

And for the clothing? Well, I don't think they'll just take away their cowboy fashion in turn for Japanese clothing, course Clover will have options for both styles. I doubt Ceroba or Chujin will take that part of Clover's identity away just cuz they're a fox/kitsune monster now.

[authorautumnbanks]

The Christmas Wish (1)

This was bad. This was really freaking bad. Kagome puffed as she ran down the shrine steps. Of course, Shippo-chan would sneak out. She should have made him kitsune promise that he would be on his best behavior, but nooo she just had to trust those large green eyes of his and his sugary words of wanting to experience Christmas with her and her family. She really should have known better.

He was in so much trouble when she got her hands on him. The modern world was no place for a trickster like him to be running amok.

Kagome pressed a hand to her temple, pushing into her skin as though the harder she pushed, the greater her thinking would expand. If she were a kitsune alone in a modern city, where would she go?

Think. Think. Shippo might be older than her, but his mind was still that of a child’s. The park nearby? No, too basic—he could get a better view of nature in his time. Think. Think. She snapped her fingers. The amusement park. Sota was bragging about all the rides and candy earlier. Kagome stuffed her hands into dark coat pockets, the bite from the cold winter stung her cheeks red. In her hurry, she neglected to grab gloves or a scarf. Half-jogging, she made her way to the amusement park. Even with the park being closed, the attractions were big enough to still draw the eye.

“Shippo! Where are you?” She called out, her voice cracking like ice against the cold front. Creepy doesn’t even being to describe how eerie it was to be at this park this late at night. Not quite the same as walking alone in the feudal era, where all sorts of nasty demons and humans just lie in the shadows, waiting to pounce. 

A chill that has nothing to do with the cold has the hairs on her arms rising. That energy was like nothing she has felt before, not demonic but not good either- it was as though the power was corrupted, cursed, and it was coming from behind the Ferris wheel. 

“Fox fire!” Her heartbeat stopped for a fraction of a second. No. Shit. Shippo was in danger and she left her fucking bow at home because it’s modern Japan and nothing ever happens here. Ugh. She pumped her legs to go faster, skidding to a stop at the sight of a grotesque thing.

The hell was that? Now, she has seen some ugly, and she means ugly demons in her life, but this thing puts all those low-level demons to shame. Its foot was sawed off, barely hanging together by its tendons. There was a black inky substance leaking from its foot. Its other leg was smashed together as though it had tried to fuse the parts back on. Bones stuck out from its back, and the whole thing made her want to hurl. 

That thing was disgusting, and the smell of rotting flesh did not help its case.

“Get away from them,” she commanded, noting a younger boy with spiky hair peeking out from behind Shippo. Shippo’s legs were shaking and this thing clearly outclassed him, and yet he stood firm. 

Did he rush off to save this boy? She would dwell on it later. Right now, her focus was on how the heck she was to go about beating this thing with no weapons.

It turned around slowly, like a bottle cap being twisted off, a sick crack with each movement. Its face was sewed up into a smile, its eyes were red and small like beads. “B-back,” it croaked out, “come back.” The amusement park lit up suddenly, as though the monster’s voice commanded the lights. Just as quickly as the park lit up, it died down shrouding them in darkness.

“It’s a special grade!” The boy shouted as though she should know what the heck that meant. 

“Hey! Ugly, leave them alone!” She pointed her finger at it. Her eyes darted to Shippo. Even if she could get him to transform, without an arrow or something makeshift, it was pointless. “Shippo, you two get out of here.” She jumped, just barely out of the way of its attack, tumbling over herself. How graceful, she bemoaned.

“We can’t leave!” 

“It set up a domain expansion!”

A domain what? Ouch, her knees stung from the way she landed. At least her jeans helped to take the brunt of it, but dang, this was not how she planned to spend her Christmas Eve.

A game plan would be nice. 

Or a bath.

Or maybe this thing could just not exist. 

Suddenly it leaped on her, its hands- claws? Gripped her shoulders as its patched mouth ripped open revealing more black liquid. What was it going to do? Swallow her? Goodness, this was not the time to be making such morbid jokes.

“C-come back,” it cried out, itching its face closer to hers. She huffed and groaned at the weight. It was a struggle, but she got one arm free. Her powers rose from her gut to her palm, sending a blast of pink in tune with the slap to its face. The thing screeched as it scrambled backward, clawing at its face. 

Her heart was beating erratically at the near-death experience. She really should take Sango up on that offer for hand-to-hand training, because this was not it.

The boy throws his hands together in a dog gesture—no, wolf; she corrected herself as a white wolf leaped from the boy’s shadow and pounced on the monster. She stumbled forward on wobbly legs. Where did Shippo run off to? 

There should be a common agreement that nothing bad happens around Christmas. If InuYasha were to catch wind of this, she’d never hear the end of it. The wolf let out a yelp as the monster tossed it back towards the boy. Kagome does a mad dash towards the monster, determined to not let it put a single creepy hand on him.

“Kagome! Catch!” Shippo yelled out, throwing a cheap wooden sword at her. It’s not a bow, but her aim is true no matter the weapon. 

“Oi! Yeah, you,” she goaded, rearing her arm back. It would be preferable if the sword was pointier, but beggars cannot be choosers, and this was her only option - saved from throwing herself on its back and trying to purify it that way.

Idiotic. Yeah, well. What else was she to do? Try to fight it like she actually knew how to wield a sword?

It turned at her, snarling as its bones expanded even further out of its body. She aimed for the mouth, anticipating that it would have something to say back to her goading. The sword struck true. The aura alone from her purification stopped the monster from getting away again. Kagome sucked in large amounts of cold air as she tried to calm her heart rate. That took so much out of her.

“How did you do that?” The boy looked at her in awe as Shippo helped him and his wolf up. He patted the white wolf before it disappeared into the boy’s shadow once more.

At least, he and Shippo-chan were bundled up in appropriate winter clothing.

“Uh.” Kagome stuffed her hands into her coat pockets. The adrenaline was wearing off fast, along with the feelings in her fingers. “Where are your parents…?” She prayed he didn’t watch that thing kill his parents.

“Gone.” He jutted his chin out. 

“Kagome is cool. She won’t judge,” Shippo assured the boy. 

“Fushiguro Megumi,” he told her. “I have a guardian,” he spat out, causing her brows to raise in response. 

Either the kid was upset because his parents were gone or he hated his guardian. Or both.

“Let’s get you home, okay. You shouldn’t be out here alone.” She crouched down to his level and smiled. He was so adorable with how serious he was trying to be.

“Why did you save me?”

Huh?

“Because you were in danger.” 

“It could have killed you.”

“I would have died with no regrets if it meant that you two could have gotten away.” 

“Megumi,” Shippo interrupted, “Kagome isn’t the type to just run away. We should get out of here.” Shippo waved his hands excitedly in the air. “There are cookies back at the shrine for Santa Claws.”

“Santa Claus,” Megumi corrected, a small smile on his face as he watched Shippo-chan jump up and down.

Kagome blinked at that. How did those two become such quick friends? And how did he summon that wolf from his shadows? And what the heck was a curse?

“Megumi, would you like to come back with us and call your guardian?” She asked, even though she already knew the answer. The boy seemed to be pretty fascinated by Shippo. Not that she could blame him since Shippo went out, bushy tail and all. She stood up, holding out her hand to him. Megumi looked at Shippo for confirmation before taking a hold of her hand and grabbing a hold of Shippo in his other hand. “Let’s go home.”

****

Gojo Satoru was not having a great day. First, the higher-ups lectured him about the responsibilities of taking in Megumi and how the Gojo clan taking in a Zenin was a political imbalance or some shit like that. Really, the Zenins were just pissed that he put a stop to the sale and stopped them from getting their grubby hands on Megumi. The only thing that clan cared about was Megumi’s cursed technique. They did not give a damn about Megumi’s or Tsumiki’s well-being. 

He spiked a hand through his hair, mildly irritated at the vibrations from his phone. What was it now? “Yo!” he answered with false joy.

“H-Hi, Gojo-san,” the babysitter stammered out.

His body festered with annoyance. He gripped the phone tighter, knowing that the next words out of her mouth would surely ruin his night even more. Why else would the babysitter call him if not to deliver bad news?

“Megumi is uh missing–”

“What?” Did he get kidnapped? “Is Tsumiki okay?”

“Y-yes, for the most part. She’s upset, but unharmed. We went to the amusement park and I don’t know –”

“You went to the amusement park hours ago,” he said lowly, “and you are just now calling me?” What was he paying her for if she couldn’t handle watching two kids? He pulled the phone back to glance at the unknown number calling. “Do not let Tsumiki out of your sight.” He ended the phone call.

She was so fired.

“Gojo,” he answered, his mind going down the list of his many enemies. They were as good as dead once he found them. Coming after him was one thing—going after children was unforgivable.

“Hi Gojo-san,” a melodic voice rang in his ears, “I have Megumi-chan with me. He’s fine, busy eating cookies right now. Do you know where the Higurashi shrine is? If not, I can give you directions,” she said.

Higurashi shrine? Could be a trap, he mused, but his gut was telling him that Megumi was fine if he was staying out at a shrine.

“I know of the shrine,” he responded, “and who am I speaking with?”

“Oh, sorry!” She laughed, “Higurashi Kagome. Just knock when you get here and sorry for feeding Megumi-chan sweets so late, he and Shippo-chan insisted on them.” The sound of Megumi laughing in the background was foreign to him. The kid was always so serious that he didn’t think the boy knew what fun was. “See you soon, Gojo-san,” Kagome said before hanging up on him.

He yawned as he stuffed his phone into his pocket. So much for relaxing when he got home. Not wanting to waste any more time, though his body was tired from working mission after mission, he teleported to the bottom of the shrine steps. He paused at the front door; his shades slid down the ridge of his nose. Megumi’s cursed energy burned like a light, but it was the presence of something darker - more visceral in the home that had him pushing down his own energy. 

It was nothing he had ever felt before and he has fought a number of special grade curses. 

He knocked and listened to the scrambling of footsteps. His shoulders tensed, not sure what to expect to be hiding from behind the door. The door swung open.

“Hi! You must be Gojo-san. Kagome,” she greeted, her words breathless. Her beauty sent him spiraling. He was not a drinker, but he wouldn’t mind getting drunk off on the taste of her. He wondered if her lips would taste as sweet as they looked. Long, dark lashes framed her doe eyes. On anyone else, he’d think the color plain - normal, but on her, he saw warmth and an innocence he wanted to protect with every fiber of his being.

Well… fuck, he thought, love was the most twisted curse of all and if this was the face of such a curse, then maybe falling in love was not so bad. 

Megumi glared at him from behind Kagome’s legs, his hands gripping onto her pants tightly as though Gojo were the stranger and not the other way around. 

“Where’d you find the runt?” he asked, his smile dropping at her frown. 

“I found Megumi,” she stressed, “at the amusement park.” She placed a hand on Megumi’s head. “Why don’t you come in Gojo-san? Surely you must be cold standing out there. We were just getting ready to make some more hot chocolate.” She turned her back to him. Megumi trailed behind her. 

“Don’t do anything,” Megumi mouthed, glaring back at him like the brat that he was. 

“Thank you for calling me right away, Kagome,” Gojo said, trying a different angle. “I just got the call from Megumi’s babysitter right before you called.” She led them to the kitchen where the darker energy was emitting from. His fingers twitched at his side as he came face to face with a… boy with a tail?

He supposed that even curses could be cute sometimes, but why the heck was it happily eating actual food?

“Shippo is a fox demon, leave him alone,” Megumi announced, joining Shippo at the table. Kagome jerked back and then looked at him sheepishly. 

“Are you like Megumi?” Shippo asked, stuffing marshmallows into his mouth. “Can you summon a fox?”

“What’s wrong with my wolves?” Megumi argued.

“They’re wolves! And I’m a fox.” 

“So.”

“So, wolves eat foxes.”

“Okay boys,” Kagome interrupted, “that’s enough or you won’t get any hot chocolate.” They groaned and pretended to zip their mouths shut. “Gojo-san-”

“Satoru.”

“Satoru,” she said, “there was a…”

“Special grade,” Megumi offered up. “We couldn’t leave the park, so I think it had a domain expansion.” 

So, the runt did listen during his training sessions.

He flicked his gaze to Shippo, his eyes roving over the childlike features. Was he responsible for saving them? He didn’t look like much. Smaller than Megumi, but the power coming from him was more than what Megumi had at the moment. Stronger. Darker. He could be trouble.

But was it enough to get rid of a special grade, he wondered, though looks could be deceiving. 

“Kagome-san exorcised it.”

Surprised coated his face. He was not expecting that at all.

Kagome handed him a cup of hot chocolate. Her fingers brushed against his - which should be impossible. Wait a minute. He was too distracted earlier to notice, but there was no cursed energy within Kagome at all. 

“I purified whatever that thing was.” She shrugged, without a hint of arrogance, as though the task was truly no biggie.

“You took down a special grade?” He discreetly sniffed the hot chocolate, raising the cup up to his mouth. If Megumi claimed that it had a domain, then it had to be a special grade, and somehow Kagome took it down, no problem. He roved over her figure behind his dark shades, committing to memory how petite she was. The longer he stared, the more the primal part of him wanted to make her his.

What was wrong with him? He had no time for relationships and lusting over Megumi’s savior was awful, even for his standards.

“I still don’t know what that means.” She turned away, fixing two mugs of hot chocolate. He wasn’t sure if he should be annoyed, skeptical, or flattered that she felt so comfortable around him. “It didn’t feel like a demon. I’m just lucky that purification worked on it.”

“It was a curse, borne from the negative human emotions.” 

“Oh!” she exclaimed as she placed the mugs in front of the boys. “Gramps is always going on about curses. I thought he was just talking as he always does.” She pressed a finger to her chin before looking at him with an excited expression. “Does that mean you are a sorcerer?”

“The strongest,” he replied, resisting the urge to stick his tongue out at Megumi’s obvious eye roll. 

“Demon begone!” A man shouted behind him. His cursed energy was so low that it barely registered on Satoru’s radar. The sutras hit his infinity. He raised a brow at the older man. He made Gakuganji look young.

“Grandpa! What are you doing?” Kagome brushed past him, startling him once again at the contact. She smelled like honey and lavender. The sutras were still floating in the air, so his infinity was still up, and yet Kagome could bypass it? 

Looks could be deceiving, he thought, and powerhouses seemed to come in the shape of curvy shrine maidens. He could feel a pair of eyes glaring holes in his back. Satoru turned his head to see both Megumi and Shippo glaring daggers at him. 

Was he that obvious? 

“Well, Megumi and I should be going now,” he said. His heart clenched at leaving so soon, which was all the more reason why he needed to get out of there. His mind was a muddled mess of thoughts of how to make Kagome smile, laugh, and other thoughts that were not at all appropriate with the given audience.

“What! You can’t leave,” Shippo said. “I thought Clawsmas was about celebrating with family and friends.”

“Christmas,” Megumi corrected, “and yeah, I want to stay. Why can’t you go get Tsumiki?”

“We can’t just impose.” Seriously, what has gotten into Megumi? The boy hated people.

“Oh, we don’t mind. Right grandpa?” Kagome flashed him a smile as she plucked the sutra out of the air. 

“Hmph. I have my eye on you, boy,” the older man pointed and then swiped a cookie from the table. 

The old man had his eye on him, but not the fox demon? This family was strange and entirely too trusting, in his opinion. 

“Ignore gramps,” Kagome said. “You wouldn’t have made it up the steps if you were a bad person. And gramps, Satoru is a sorcerer like those stories you always tell.”

The hell did she mean by the steps comment?

“What’s your surname, boy?” 

“Gojo.” He eyed the cookies that were disappearing fast. The sharp gasp drew his attention. So, the old man knew of him then, but Kagome did not, and yet she could take out a special grade. He should start taking the time around Christmas off.

“Oh boy, I don’t think gramps is going to let you go now,” she joked, shaking her head as the older man rushed out of the room. “But really, we do not mind. Shippo-chan has taken a liking to Megumi-chan and I have some questions if you don’t mind.”

“What do I get for answering your questions?” He smiled back, ignoring the sharp rise of cursed and demonic energy. His fingers curled around the mug handle tighter as he took a sip. Man, that was some good shit. Kagome must have won Megumi over with the hot chocolate alone.

“Um, well, what do you want?” She crossed her arms, pushing her breasts together. He took another long draw from his drink.

“Well-”

“Oi! Kagome!” 

The color drained from Kagome’s face as a man in a red haori came skidding into the kitchen. His hair was as white as the snow out, and he had two dog-shaped ears on top of his head. Another demon? Satoru sat his mug on the table.

“Who the fuck are you?” The man demanded, one claw-tipped hand on the hilt of his sword.

Satoru bit back a snarl. Shippo might not mean any harm, but this dog-eared one did.

[moths-in-hats]

Je t'épouse

Written for @teenwolfrarepairevents Day 4: Season 3 - Married in a Hurry

Read on AO3

“What do you mean we have to get married?”

Chris hadn’t stopped frowning since he’d suggested the idea. “It’s hunter law.”

“Why does hunter law mean we have to get married?” Derek asked.

“Marriage gives you immunity. If we’re going to be going to a hunter council, you’re going to need immunity.”

“Immunity? What happened to ‘We hunt those who hunt us’?”

“Some hunters take a more… laissez-faire approach to the code. But it’s not about that. Only hunters are welcome at hunter councils - you’d be executed for trespassing.”

Derek considered this. He might not have always made the right decisions but he did have a pragmatism learned from years of fighting for survival. He knew they needed whatever help they could get, he knew the teens were dealing with a dark force beyond their control, he knew Chris cared for them (it was one of Derek’s favourite qualities about him), knew that Chris would go alone if Derek didn’t agree, and knew that was dangerous. “Okay,” Derek agreed. “Let’s get married."

The plan had first been discussed two days ago. It was Argent's idea. Noshiko might have lots of information on nogitsunes but one thing she didn't know was how to trap one. Argent didn't either but there was an annual hunter council coming up and he knew one of the clans had experience with kitsunes. Not nogitsunes specifically but at this point they needed all the help they could get.

The only thing was after the recent near-death experiences — Scott, Ethan and Boyd trying to kill themselves and Derek trying to kill Argent — the pack, even the adults, had developed a buddy system of sorts. No one was supposed to go anyway alone if it could be avoided and that included exclusive hunter conferences. Derek, of course, had been the first to volunteer. It seemed the hunter and the wolf were always together these days, an interesting development considering the start of their relationship.

With Derek's consent, the only thing left was to plan and execute a wedding in the week before the conference.

"Does hunter law say anything about how we get married?" Derek asked.

Chris nodded and began explaining.

The wedding was held two days later, an appropriately quiet affair given the situation. Allison was there, wearing a sweet blue dress and whispering something in her father's ear that made him shoot daggers at her. Deaton officiated because of course the druid was qualified to officiate weddings. They got through most of the ceremony without issue and then Allison brought forward the rings. Chris took one of them and made eye contact with Derek. He slipped the ring onto Derek's thumb. "In nomine Patris," He murmured and then moved the ring to Derek's index finger. "Et filii." And then Derek's middle finger. "Et Spiritus Sancti." And finally Derek's ring finger. "Je t'épouse." When he finished, he gave Derek a small smile and Derek knew it was his turn.

He took the other ring and repeated the ritual with Chris' fingers, doing his best not to tremble as their hands brushed. He kept his eyes on Chris' hand, unable to face looking the other man in the eye while he did this. Derek had been practising his words in the mirror all morning and it paid off. "Je t'épouse," He finished and only then did he meet Chris' eyes.

Deaton cleared his throat. Derek had nearly forgotten he was even there, less than a foot away from them. "I now pronounce you married," Deaton announced.

Chris broke out into a proper smile, almost uncharacteristic in its warmth. Derek smiled back reflexively.

This is going to be a long week, He thought to himself.

[probablyadhdapparently]

a flower blooms in early winter chpt 1 - the meeting

word count: 2262

Chapter summary:

you are taken in by the former demon lord Vox akuma. You immediately realise the danger you’re in but soon you find maybe he’s not so dangerous.

an: hi this is my first fanfic please be nice it is intended to be fluff and (very mild) crack. This fic is platonic as well and sfw.

The snow burns against your skin, your wounds sting in the bitter cold and your lungs ache as you gasp for air clinging to the last bit of life you have left. The sound of footsteps ring in your ear…  someone’s coming…

You wake up in an entirely new environment, the new smells plague your nose and the lights are blinding, your head spins as you try to recall what had happened.

“Ah, finally awake are we?” You turn to see who spoke, to be greeted by a demon of a tall and muscular frame with pale skin, his hair long and black with red highlights, his voice is deep but he speaks to you softly. You are recognise him immediately as the great demon lord Vox Akuma. Upon realising the danger you were in you bear your fangs and claws and began to back off of his couch but you were too light headed to fight and the lights looked as though they were spinning. 

“Hey, no need to stress yourself. I won’t hurt you.” As he reaches out an arm to touch you, you swipe at him and make a dash for the door. You don’t get far as you trip on your own foot and your chin slams into the floorboards,

“Careful!” He rushes to your aid but you swipe at him again growling and puffing the fur on your tails to make yourself look more intimidating.

“C’mon you’re hurt.” You back away as he slowly approaches “Let me help you.” He smiles softly and reaches a hand out. This time you bite him as hard as you possibly can hoping he’ll leave you alone. 

“Fine then.” He retracts his bleeding hand “are you hungry? I made us some food if you’ll be willing to eat.”

Before you can, your stomach responds for you with an awkwardly loud growl. The demon chuckles softly as he rises “I’ll take that as a yes then, follow me.” 

    You contemplate following as his footsteps trail off but you find that your stomach has led you to the kitchen anyway. Looking out a nearby window you see that it’s midday,

“You’ve been asleep for a while now. I was kinda worried.” He pulled out a chair for you and reluctantly you sat “I did some research and it said the best thing to help you was soup!” You were proudly presented a bowl of meek looking soup. You grimaced at the sight of such humble food but upon seeing the demon’s twinkling eyes, you ate. The soup was mild and easy to swallow and the flavour or each component was simple but came through so clearly. To put it simply it was the perfect soup. You almost felt bad for making such a face; he probably worked very hard on it. Without a second thought you downed the entire bowl. Vox was pleased with himself and happily ladled you another bowl full and another and another and another until the pot was empty. 

“Good. Well done for eating.” Vox gently pat you on your head the moment you let your guard down so you scratched at his forearm leaving quite the deep gash “so what was a kitsune like you doing in this part of the woods? There are humans here y’know.” 

“Of course I know!” You snap back “ they used to worship me.”

“Oh. Tell me more”

“I used to have a shrine north of here, I think, I don’t really know where I am.”

“You’re in a human city.”

“So you decided that to protect a yokai at risk of being hunted and experimented on by humans to take them to a city full of humans?”

“It’s fine, many yokai have blended in here.” 

“…”

“Don’t look at me like that, I’m telling the truth here”

“Fine. Anyway the shrine was originally home to some silk weavers. They had a rat problem so I took advantage and in return I was cared for. Generations later I still remained except now I was worshipped for bringing the family fortune they’re a major designer brand now. The family business is owned by the second eldest son now but out of jealousy his older and younger siblings decided to sabotage the whole family by paying some people to hunt me down. I tried hiding in the old shrine but they found me there. I’m probably still being hunted.”

“I see…”

“Anyways it’s my turn to ask you a question now.”

“Ask away!”

“What were you doing in the forest milord?”

“It’s been a while since I’ve been called that. I was out for a walk with a few friends. We were being silly until we heard screaming and gunshots. Your hunters were arrested by the way. So we don’t need to worry about them.” 

“I’m sorry, we?” You quirk an eyebrow. “No matter, I must  leave now, I am grateful for your kindness milord.”

“Hang on, are you seriously leaving?”

“Yes, why?”

“It’s still too cold outside and you have no proper clothes! I just saved you from dying of hypothermia and you want to go out there again?”

You look down at the torn rags that covered your body and tutted, these had cost you quite a bit well not you as you weren’t the one who bought them. All those days in the forest had ruined your garments. It’d be wise to stay but if you stayed you’d be at great risk as well. 

“I guess I have no other choice then. Eat me.”

“I’m sorry what?

“Eat me. If I leave I’ll die. Don’t you find that a waste to let a meal wander off uneaten?”

“No??? I don’t eat people anymore???”

“He’s gone vegan or maybe he’s gone mad.”

“Rude much?”

“You’re a demon you can’t survive without eating souls. I’ve lived long enough to know what you guys are and your eating habits.”

“Is that why you were so afraid of me earlier?”

“Yes but now I know it’s the slow and painful chill of the snow or my soul being painlessly eaten so I’ve made my choice. Eat me.”

 “For the last time NO! I won’t eat you! Anyway you’re full now, right?”

“Correct.” 

“You should really have a bath. Respectfully, you smell.”

“Dammit.”

“I assume you can bathe yourself.”

“Yes.”

“I’ll run you some water then.”

And with that Vox was off. You could hear the dreaded water filling up a bathtub and your skin crawled. There was nothing wrong with water except how heavy it makes your hair and fur. You shudder at the thought. The bath must be avoided at all costs but how? 

   Vox had returned withs towel in hand

“Ok, bath’ s ready…. Where are you?”

He searched calling out for you being careful enough to even check his cabinets. Considering your size you could hide anywhere. He even checked outside on his balcony and front door. 

“You were just here…” he said, scratching his head. You flinch as he opens the door. Surely he won’t find you here. 

“Hey kid! Where did you go?”

You hold your tongue for now. You can see his white socks from under the bed. Surely he won’t look there right? You flinch again but harder as you see his knee drop to the ground and his head begins to peak under. Surely not. 

“Nothing.” He sighs and so do you “just kidding.” You bite hard when he grabs you from under the belly. 

“How did you find me? Also I’m no ‘kid’.” You queer 

“Boxes don’t sweat. And you sweat quite a bit.” He checks the many wounds you’ve left on him “why are you hiding? I thought we've established I’m not going to eat you.”

You pout and puff your cheeks, ears drooping. Now you really have to take a bath.

      The bath water is a decent temperature and you don’t have to ask Vox to change the water for the eleventh time because the second you touch your tails the water turns brown. You can finally sit and relax. When you return from the bathroom you find Vox has prepared some clothes for you. They’re absolutely massive on you, comically oversized. There’s also a note which reads “I’m sorry if they’re too big they’re the smallest ones I could find.  If you need me I’m in the kitchen making dinner. You can entertain yourself with the TV! You do know how to use one right? ~Vox ^_^”  you sigh and march yourself to the kitchen.

“Milord.”

“Yes?” he snickered. You looked ridiculous in his shirt.

“Do you have a brush that I could possibly use for my tails?” 

“Um.. yeah sure lemme go get it.”

Now you could relax, brush your tails and watch TV in peace. You reach for the remote and put on your favourite show: Bluey. It might be immature and childish but honestly there’s nothing else you’d rather watch. A few episodes had passed when,

“Oh hey. What you watching?” You frantically reach for the remote and change the channel “what’d you do that for?” He grabs the remote and changes it back. “Ah, Bluey, I heard this show was good. Is it really?” You dare not look him in the eye nor respond. How could you embarrass yourself in front of Vox like that? 

He hasn’t even watched five episodes yet and he’s already crying.

“Milord?”

“I’m not crying, it’s the onions!”

“Suuure….”

“I should really check up on the food.” He sobs. And so he exits the room wiping his eyes. You continue to watch until there’s a knock on the door outside. 

“Oh yeah I invited some fox friends of mine. I’ll open the door, don’t move!”

Hearing his footsteps move towards the door you decide to peek around the corner. In the doorframe are two kitsune. One is dressed in an orange and grey suit with a detective cap that hides his ears and his jacket is draped over his shoulders.There are various mysterious stains on his shirt and coat. His hair is short and grey but cut very choppy and you think his orange sunglasses are a bit tacky. And that belt. If you could even call it one. The other was a woman and BOY was she stunning. Her hair was a silky silver and it came down in long locks which curled around her shoulders. Her makeup done perfectly, especially around her eyes and her ears were tall and fluffy. Her tails were equally fluffy, they were wispy and covered in thick, gorgeous fur. Her kemono greatly complemented her makeup and was highly ornate it was definitely made by the family brand. Her gaze trails past Vox and to you.

“Is that the cutie you were telling us about?” She smiles and waves towards you. Blushing slightly you retreat back around the corner. 

“I guess they’re a little shy.” You can still hear how soft her voice is from the living room.

“Far from.” Vox retorts 

“Anyway. So are they ok considering the whole incident?” The man asks 

“They’re well enough to give me attitude. It’s probably starting to get cold. You should come inside.”

“Thanks man!”

     You scramble to change the channel trying to think of something cool that would impress the vixen who was now approaching. Oohh what to put. Her footsteps grow closer. What to put. She’s really close now.

“Hi there honey.” You jump at the sound of her voice “Oh, there’s no need to be scared.” The beautiful vixen raised you up into her arms and gently pat you on the head. “What were you watching?” You bury your face in her shoulder as the Bluey intro sounds. 

“BWAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!! BLUEY?!?” The male fox is practically dying laughing. “What are you four?!” 

“Actually I’m four hundred and sixty-five.” Your face burns from embarrassment

“Aww. Leave them alone mysta.”

“I just find it stupid that they watch kids shows like a little baby.” 

“Hey Bluey is NOT just a kids show!” You hear Vox chime in from the kitchen

“Yeah, I’ve actually watched a few episodes myself. It’s really good.” 

“You’re not serious Nina.”

“I am. You wanna watch some together.” She gently scratches behind your ear, the perfect spot.

“I swear if that trash-eating mongrel opens his mouth again I’ll sew it shut.” Nina simply chuckles at your remark 

“Who are you calling trash-eating? we’re both foxes!”

“Y’know Mysta they’re not wrong.” Vox finally emerges from the kitchen presenting bowls of chicken katsudon for both of his friends but none for you. 

“Quit glaring at me, yours is coming.”

     You were quite impressed with how much alcohol Nina could handle. She finished a whole bottle of wine all by herself. Half a second bottle of wine in she was absolutely bawling and so was Mysta and Vox. Three fully grown adults crying their hearts out to Bluey. Normally in such a situation you’d stand from a distance and glare at them like the pathetic little worms they are but if it wasn’t for Nina clinging onto you like a teddy bear. You can’t blame her. The camping episode made you cry for the first time too. But Mysta’s bawling is absolutely ridiculous. And the way he and Vox scream, shaking each other like little girls when Jean Luke and Bluey meet again is beyond moronic. But it is quite a sentimental moment. 

“I take back everything I ever said about this show. Kid, I am so sorry.”

“I’m not a child.”