#This is truly the Aeon chapter of all time

[crimescrimson]

The Good Deeds Of Ada Wong: Saving Lives

Ada Gives Leon the Rocket That Finishes Off Simmons | Ada Defends Leon and Helena from Simmons on the Roof | Ada Takes Simmons Down to Save Leon | Ada Tells Leon About the Helicopter For Him and Helena | Ada Gives Leon and Helena Their Exoneration

[krokusplays]

Picking up Pieces - Chapter 2 (18+)

Blade X Reader - Modern AU

He was gonna be your neighbor, you wouldn’t have anything to do with him aside from maybe an occasional passing in the hallway. Unfortunately, you’ve forgotten how thin the walls in the building truly were and days and nights became blurred as you - unwillingly - had to listen to everything happening beyond these walls. Until one day, everything went silent.

Based on this prompt

Warnings/Tags: Explicit/18+, masturbation, Blade is still in a relationship with Dan Heng, female reader, no cheating or anything of the sorts

Words: 3.3k

Status: 2/4 chapters (14k words altogether)

Read it on AO3

You barely heard anything the next day after work. Once you came home, tended to your chores and prepared dinner you occasionally heard laughter or the sounds of music or the TV but it got drowned out as soon as you turned on videos on your computer.

That changed once the night came.

As quiet as your apartment was when you went to bed it made it all the easier to hear what went on outside on the streets.

Or in your new neighbor’s apartment.

You knew you shouldn’t get irritated. They were in love, they were happy, they were in their own home. They could do whatever they wanted. Be it playing video games until late into the night - because you definitely heard gunshots followed by exclamations of winning something - or… other things.

But Aeons, it was Wednesday night. Didn’t they have work in the morning? Couldn’t they at least try to keep it down a bit? At least at this hour?

Aside from that, you truly didn’t need to hear all that.

You pulled the blanket over your head and groaned. You really didn’t want to spend the night on the couch again.

Work on Thursday was uneventful aside from the usual gossip with the girls in the kitchen. You would have to invite them over again some day. It’s been a while after all. For all the teasing you threw at each other they were everything to you. They deserved to be invited over. Especially after they were the only reason your mood wasn’t below zero after getting too little sleep once again.

At least it was almost Friday and you had no work on the weekend. Just one more day to go.

You changed into some more comfortable clothes once you got home and grabbed your keys real quick. As exhausted as you were you’ve forgotten to bring in the mail when you arrived.

The mailboxes for the entire building were on the ground floor on the right wall once one entered the building. The white almost square shaped boxes almost disappeared among the wall if the white paint hadn’t been so dirty from many, many years of not being cleaned or replaced. You didn’t mind it, after living here for years you’ve kinda grown fond of its very own and unique charm, even though it took you years to memorize which of these mail boxes was yours because the name tags were almost invisible as tiny as they were…

You strolled down the stairs, your mood much better than before now that the weekend was upon you.

Yet, you paused as soon as the mail boxes came into view and you caught sight of your new neighbor - Blade - in front of them. You ignored how your heart seemed to skip a beat.

He had his back to you so he didn’t notice you as he reached for his mail. He had long hair, you didn’t notice the few times you’ve seen him before. The long strands fell down his back as untamed as the bangs in his face, fading into a subtle magenta at its ends.

He wore a looser shirt this time and sweatpants. Still, the material stretched over his shoulders, while it pooled loosely around his waist. The contrast was… something. You could easily wrap your arms around that waist but probably struggle to do the same with his shoulders.

You shook your head and made a face, grossed out by your own thoughts. Thank the Aeons he neither saw you nor could read your mind.

As you stepped next to him and pulled out your key, you caught sight of the same jade pendant you saw on Dan Heng the other day dangling from his bunch of keys.

This guy’s really smitten with him, huh?

As if you didn’t already know that given their nightly… how did Gui call it? Right, entertainment.

“Had fun last night?” You didn’t intend for it to be this snarky but the words slipped out before you could stop them. You blamed it on your lack of sleep. And his attitude.

“What is it to you?”

His deep voice sounded calm, as if the situation didn’t matter to him at all. It didn’t even seem to upset him that you knew or complained about it, just utter indifference. The way he looked at Dan Heng the other day made you think he was at least capable of being considerate but apparently that only applied to his boyfriend, definitely not you.

“I live next door? And the walls are paper thin? It’s not too much to ask to be more considerate of your neighbors who can’t afford to lose sleep all the time because you can’t keep it down.”

That was harsh and internally you flinched at your own words. An apology danced on the tip of your tongue but when his gaze, piercing and intense, caught yours it made your breath hitch in your throat.

“It ain’t your business,” he said with such a calm voice that it didn’t fit the fire in his eyes. Nor did it match the smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

He closed the mailbox and left before you could say anything in response.

You muttered something under your breath as you grabbed your own mail and went upstairs again.

How has this guy been capable of looking at Dan Heng - or anyone for that matter - as if he was the most precious thing in the world?

He seemed like an arrogant jerk to you.

Did you overdo it? Yeah, maybe. You didn’t have to be so snarky about it and of course it was none of your business, he was right about that one, but if it affected your day and night like this, didn’t you have the right to complain?

At best it was inconsiderate, at worst utterly rude behavior.

It also was beyond you that they weren’t ashamed in the slightest bit knowing you could hear it all. Blade knew that you were aware of it after all. In an odd way this indifference to what other people thought was remarkable.

You should’ve known that you wouldn’t be able to escape them that night.

Your words didn’t do anything earlier today and you couldn’t blame them. You were too harsh and snapped instead of being mature about it.

You pulled the blanket over your head and while it muffled the voices and sounds a bit, it didn’t do anything against the thudding against the wall. It was almost comical… If it didn’t steal another night of your sleep.

You groaned in frustration. This couldn’t go on. You would have to try a different approach. Maybe that could help.

When you got home from work the next day you didn’t even go to your own apartment, but instead knocked on his door before you could change your mind. You were too tired to argue or deal with any frustration, so maybe a few words would do something.

The guy opened the door eventually. Though, when he saw you, he crossed his arms over his chest and leaned against the door frame with his hips. You couldn’t fathom how your mind couldn’t decide if he was utterly hot like this or intimidating in the way he stared you down with those red eyes.

“What do you want?” Again, such a calm voice. If he was angry or frustrated he didn’t let it show at all.

“I’m sorry about yesterday, I,” you paused, looking for the right words, “the walls truly are thin and I have to get up early in the morning. Is it not possible for you to please be a bit more considerate at night?”

You genuinely just wanted a peaceful night.

Blade looked at you without moving a muscle. Nothing in his gaze or posture gave you any insight to what he was thinking.

“I’m not making promises.”

“I… Thank you.”

He closed the door without saying another word.

That was… Better than you had anticipated. Probably the most you could’ve expected too. You heaved a sigh of relief and went home.

When you tended to your chores you were already looking forward to a lazy Friday evening and a quieter night.

You only got half of that.

Wrapped up in your blanket and a cup of wine you spent your evening relaxing on the couch watching a movie and random videos on the internet you found interesting and chatting with the girls during it.

Whatever happened beyond your walls didn’t reach your ears nor did it matter.

Eventually, however, the lack of sleep and the late hour did take their toll on you. When you began dozing off on your couch you gave in, dragging yourself into your bedroom and hoping for the best.

A dull thud sounded against the wall and rose you from your sleep. You groaned and blinked in the pale moonlight falling in from the windows. Your clock let you know you didn’t sleep for more than two hours. Frustrated you rubbed your face with your hands.

Blade said he wouldn’t make any promises and they’ve been quieter the whole evening… You buried your face in your pillow.

At least it was Friday and you didn’t have to wake up early tomorrow morning.

In the stillness of your bedroom you could hear way too much. The squeaking of the bed, the thud whenever the frame was pushed against the wall, sometimes a moan… Yes, like that one right there, hoarse and sensual and-

Your eyes widened.

That was way too close. As if… he was right by the wall. You pulled the blanket over your head but it didn’t drown out the noise completely. Another moan… followed by voices talking, nothing you could make out… It ended in a groan that definitely belonged to that guy and it made your face flush.

Was he doing that on purpose? Or did he already forget your comment and he truly didn’t give a damn at all if anyone heard them? Did you just get lucky because it was Friday and they didn’t have the stress of having to wake up earlier too? Was Dan Heng aware of this issue? He made the impression that he would care and keep it down for the sake of others, but you didn’t know him at all in the end…

Ugh…

You clutched the blanket in your hands. You couldn’t believe this.

You closed your eyes, tried to fall asleep again but another groan made you jolt.

What happened that he would make such a noise? What would he look like right now? Would his red eyes glow in the dark, clouded by lust as they stared at his partner… Would his face contort with pleasure as he slid inside of them… Would he moan like that into their ear? Or did he try to hide his own sounds until it all became too much and he’d throw his head back, dark, untamed hair sticking to his pale skin-

You groaned into your pillow, but this time the frustration was of an entirely different nature.

This couldn’t be happening. You were not imagining how that guy would behave and what he would look like during sex?

Certainly, you were better than this. You weren’t desperate enough to let your thoughts run wild like this. You would not indulge in stupid fantasies about a man who was nothing but rude to you and who was in a relationship.

No way.

Still, the sticky and damp feeling between your legs was impossible to deny, but somehow you managed to resist giving in to provide some relief for the throbbing.

Buried beneath your blankets you eventually fell asleep, praying that those deep red eyes wouldn’t haunt you in your dreams.

They didn’t.

Then again, you didn’t remember any dream at all, so who knew what your brain has come up with during the night.

Your Saturday went by uneventful. Chores, running errands, going for a run, being on the phone with Guinaifen for… well, probably an hour or two, you didn’t check the time, before preparing dinner and enjoying the rest of your day off lazing around at home.

You found yourself staring at the ceiling of your bedroom.

You traced the subtle texture of it with your eyes, tried to find patterns with how the pale moonlight illuminated it, attempted to distract you from your neighbor enjoying his Saturday night.

And you knew you didn’t have a right to complain on the weekend. You’d be happy if your neighbors were tolerant of your activities on the weekend too(well, as long as there were any to begin with).

But the image of red eyes burning with passion and the sound of deep moans, voice hoarse and low, haunted your mind with every breath.

You told yourself you didn’t need this, that you didn’t want this. It felt so wrong and inappropriate. He’s never given you the time of day, none of your encounters has been friendly, and he was in a relationship with someone.

None of this was right.

Yet, you didn’t manage to keep your hand from slipping into your panties.

As your fingers made contact with the wetness between your legs, your hips bucked, a silent gasp on your lips.

When you heard a faint moan from beyond your walls you felt a tingle in your spine. Dammit…

Your eyes fell shut as you tried to keep your own voice down, the last thing you wanted was for them to hear you, as you slid your fingers between your folds and over your clit. The feeling of pleasure and relief felt incredible.

And when you opened your eyes and stared at the ceiling of your bedroom, you almost managed to convince yourself that this was only natural. Nothing wrong with getting turned on by such sounds and maybe it’s just been too long since you indulged yourself.

But as soon as your eyes fell shut again because the friction felt just too good, you met deep red eyes and a body, all pale skin and muscles flexing, looming above you.

Your fingers began to move faster. And with each new surge of pleasure surging through your body the shame became less and less relevant.

Would he grab your hair? Pull your head back and expose your neck to his lips and tongue? He seemed like he would-

The sound of your own slick mingled with the faint sounds from beyond the walls and you applied just a bit more pressure on your clit.

He would probably enjoy bending you over, the couch, the table, against the wall… With his hands on your waist. How big his hands were would give him an easy time to handle your body the way he wanted, keeping you in place as he ground against your ass…

Heat flooded your mind and body and pooled deep in your core, as you circled and rubbed your clit with your fingers while your other hand cupped your breast, pulling and pinching your nipple and you couldn’t help the moan leaving your lips, muffled by how you pressed your face into your pillow. How were you already this close?

Would he leave you clothed? He would probably pull your pants down and your panties aside just enough to push himself between your thighs and to slide inside of you. He would fuck you like this, take what he wanted, his grip on your waist almost bruising-

You bit your lip to keep any sounds from escaping as your hand moved faster all on its own, chasing that high, that relief that was so much within reach already.

Would he lean over your back? His lips on your neck, the ghost of teeth on your shoulders as his ragged breaths fanned over you, a hoarse groan in your ear-

You came with a silent moan on your lips, your body twitching and spasming as the bliss and relief washed over you. Once the sensations slowly ebbed away and left behind a feeling of calm and contentment, you lay there, catching your breath.

You were certain, eventually the guilt and shame would return, but for now, neither of them could reach you as you fell into a restful sleep.

It did return.

But only days later, after you have caught yourself masturbating again to the sounds of him having sex with his boyfriend on a weekday, resulting in even less sleep than before.

However, the shame turned into anger the moment you saw Blade in the hallway of the building when you got home from work and saw him pulling out his keys from his pocket. He wore a leather jacket today and you cursed your own mind when it screamed how much it suited him. You clenched the strap of your bag.

The anger was entirely on you, you realize that, but that didn’t keep it from spilling over your lips regardless.

You hated how you touched yourself because of him, how just hearing a moan from him - faint and muffled by the wall - turned you on to the point that you couldn’t help yourself. You disdained how his image and fantasies involving him made you come so quickly, how almost every thought when you weren’t at work so easily revolved around him…

Even now, seeing him made your blood boil and you couldn’t tell if you wanted to punch him or drop to your knees to turn these fantasies into a reality.

Aeons, it sounded pathetic, even to your own ears.

“I wonder if I can get some proper sleep tonight for a change,” you said. It was passive aggressive as hell and you cringed at yourself internally but the words already hung in the air between you.

You didn’t even look at him as you stepped past him and opened your bag to dig out your keys, but you could feel his gaze turn to you.

“Stop listening then.”

Your ears felt hot, both in anger and the embarrassment of the implication. He didn’t know what you’ve been doing these past few nights whenever they had their fun together but his words made you feel as if he caught you in the act.

“Well, you’re not giving me much of a choice, right?” You lowered your bag and glared at him.

Something flashed in his eyes. Something darker. And before your mind caught on he was in front of you, your back against your door, his forearm against the wall next to you, caging you.

He had his hands clenched into fists and the glance in his eyes and his furrowed brows spoke of a frustration that wasn’t evident in his voice.

You swallowed. For a moment you didn’t dare to breathe as he kept you trapped.

“Stay out of my business. If it bothers you this much, move,” he said. He stared you down and you felt even smaller than you already were and yet, you couldn’t avert your gaze from him.

A moment passed, silent and tense, until Blade closed his eyes and heaved a sigh. His shoulders lowered and he loosened his fingers. He stepped away before you could say another word.

The sound of his apartment door falling shut behind him echoed in your head to the point it made you flinch.

Ever since that moment in the hallway it felt like Blade actually had a distaste for you. The indifferent looks from before turned into a glare, he scowled when you greeted him or didn’t acknowledge you at all anymore, not even with a nod.

The nights passed by the same as before. Though at times you got the impression that it became less. But, whenever Dan Heng did stay over you kissed your sleep goodbye.

Still, you found yourself too many times slipping your hands into your panties regardless of how he looked at you. Or maybe, because of it. A little part of you wanted him to scowl at you while he told you to get on your knees so he could fuck your face. You always came to the thought of burning red eyes, flushed, pale skin and the sound of a low, hoarse moan in your ear…

But then.

Everything went silent.

[jillsandwhichs]

Aeon - Oneshots/AU's Collection , Chap 1 , Getting used to it all

Masterlist

Pairing: Leon S Kennedy & Ada Wong

Summary: Ada cooks dinner for both her and Leon. They spend some quality time together

Status of their relationship in this one shot: Dating

WC: 1.8k

Type: SFW

A/n: Hi! Hope you all enjoy. Please check out my masterlist, there's a lot of stuff there. You can get to know me, you can see the rules of my blog and then you can see all of my fanfictions. You'll be able to find the previous chapters to this fic and upcoming ones. You'll also be able to find my Wattpad & AO3. Comments, reblogs & likes are appreciated. Thank you

'Sleepwalk' by Santo and Johnny played hushly in the background, it wasn't too quiet nor too loud, it was at just the right volume. Ada often enjoyed music from the earlier decades such as the 50s, 60s and 70s. Music then was just better, more from the soul than just to make money and be on their merry way. This song was one Ada enjoyed in particular. The sound of it was catchy, made you want to get up and do something.

It was the perfect song to play while she cooked some dinner for her and Leon.

Her slim hips swayed back and forth as she stirred the pot of pasta. For their dinner, she plans to make green pesto noodles, one of her favorites. As a side, she is making sauteed green beans and steamed rice, both are very tasty. Her and Leon only recently began to truly date and live together, it all seems sort of rushed but at the same time, they've known one another for so long, it just feels right. Ada feels that maybe this is a way to make up for some of what she's done to Leon.

Their agreement is that she can still work as a mercenary, him an agent, and if they cross paths during work, they'll act as if they don't know each other for safety precautions.

It's been hard - Staying away from Leon. Ada does truly feel something for him. He's a noble man, she has honored that since the day she met him. He's also so sweet, another thing Ada admired about him. It was very hard. Her line of work doesn't make it easy, not at all, but she's willing to attempt to make this work with Leon.

Currently, he's driving home from a day at the D.S.O HQ. Ada hasn't been on a mission in some time, she hasn't had to be on one. It's different though, this environment. Being in a home with another person and not utterly alone, it isn't something she's quite used to yet; Especially it being someone such as Leon. Being around him however is lovely, she really enjoys it. He's a spirited man, she loves that about him. He's just different overall.

Picking up her glass of red wine, Ada sipped it casually as she checked on the green beans which were being fried up - They looked good so far. The entire kitchen smelt amazing, like real food for once. Ada rarely gets a chance to cook for herself. She's either too busy, on the run or is too sore to even try. This domestic bliss she's experiencing is intense but not necessarily in a bad way, she just isn't feeling it completely yet. But being able to make a real dinner has been a catch.

The sound of the front door opening then closing was heard - Leon must be home.

"Ada?" He called out. He set his briefcase by the front door and took of his jacket along with his dress shoes. When being in the presence with someone such as the President, Leon must dress with more elegancy, it's just a requirement. "In here." She called back to him from the kitchen, standing in front of the heated & turned on oven. Leon made his way to where the sound of her soft yet seductive voice was at.

Ada gazed at him as he walked into the room, his steps becoming slower as he caught onto what was going on.

"You're making dinner?" "I am." Ada replied with a nod, her head turning back to the three different pots/pans resting on the stove top. Leon wandered towards the oven, making a humming noise as he smelt the food. "Smells great. What are you making exactly baby?" Ada still isn't entirely used to his use of the words 'baby', 'love' and 'honey' yet but it'll come to her. "I am making pesto pasta, sauteed green beans and rice... Does that sound okay with you?" "Sounds perfect." Leon responded quickly, kissing the top of her head before walking out of the kitchen for a brief moment.

She didn't know where he was off to, but also didn't really care and she just proceeded with her cooking.

Shortly after he left though, Leon came back. Now, he was dressed in much more casual and comfy attire. "Just had to change. You look good in that, I don't think I've ever seen you dress in anything other than red and black." He teased. Ada snickered. "I am capable of wearing other colors and style of clothing, yes." Leon wasn't in the wrong here. Anytime Ada is out and about on a mission, it's a red and black combo and the outfit was either seductive-like or very modest.

Right now though, she is wearing a black T shirt with pajama pants, something she is rarely able to even put on.

"Do you know when you'll have to leave again?" Leon popped the question.

Before all of this, Ada warned Leon of the fact that she'll randomly be called in to conduct a mission and that it won't be something she can just call off, she'll have to participate in whatever the mission may be. She did make him an oath though.

"No matter what Leon, I'll come home safe to you and even if I don't, know that I'll have died being in love with you."

Those words broke Leon's heart when he first ever heard them. In Ada's defense, she was a tad bit drunk when saying that. Then again, a drunk mans words are a sober mans thoughts. Ada does truly love him.

"I don't know Leon, I do not have a schedule as a mercenary." "I know." Leon mumbled, "I was just wondering." Sometimes, his tone got quiet and timid, as if he was suddenly nervous to be around Ada. "You okay?" "I am. I just don't want to wake up one of these days to you out of the house." Leon admitted, a deep sigh coming from him. His words showed he cares immensely, which he does, but actually hearing them help Ada feel more secure about all of this. "Leon, I will not leave this house without a goodbye." Ada spoke with a more serious tone, setting the wooden spoon down.

Leon's head went up as she said that, his heart slightly touched. Ada is really not an affectionate person, so Leon doesn't think she realizes the things she says are sweet sometimes. "You won't?" "I will not." Ada reassured up, her motions towards him slow. Leon stood up and placed his hands on Adas waist, causing her breath to shutter. Ada doesn't know why she hasn't yet gotten used to his touch at least - He touches her often. She likes it, but it's just so different.

Leon took notice of her uncomfortability.

"Do you want me to stop touching you, Ada?" Leon asked her as he was about to remove his hands from her midriff. "No, it's okay, you know that Leon." He kept his hands there. "If you say so." "I mean it. You just have to understand Leon, this is not something I am used to." Ada pleaded to him, hoping he does understand. "I do, trust me, I do." Leon chuckled, the situation becoming more light hearted than anything. "Let me finish up our dinner, I'll bring it out to you." Ada stated to him.

With a nod, Leon brought his face to Ada's. He was hesitant. Would she want a kiss at this time. Instead, Ada sealed the kiss herself. She pressed her lips against his, her hands resting on his chest. Leon breathed in deeply, his eyes closing slowly as he withtook this kiss.

After a couple more seconds, she pulled away, a smile on her face but she soon wiped it away. "Go to the living room, I'll bring your plate out to you soon." "Ok." He nodded, kissing her forehead briskly before ambling out of the warm kitchen.

Ada went back over to the oven to attend her food. All of it was almost done. If her calculations are correct, the sauteed green beans will be done first, then the rice and lastly, the pasta. All of it looked delicious too, luckily. It has been some time since she's cooked any of this, so she really hopes it'll taste good. In the pan, Ada shuffled the beans around, making sure they were coated in the garlic and butter, it would enhance the flavour immensely.

Then, she worked on the rice. Rice is super easy to cook, for her she supposes. Since she was a little girl, it was the only food she grew up consistently knowing how to make, no matter what kind it was or what stationary she had, she'd make it work. She's specifically making jasmine rice - Her favorite. Hopefully, she really hopes, Leon will also take a liking to it.

Lastly, the main course, the pesto pasta. She bought everything for it earlier today, she didn't miss a single ingredient for it either.

The sound of the television that is in the living room began to become audible, indicating Leon was simply relaxing and watching a show of sorts. Ada never was one to sit and enjoy TV. In her life, in total, she's seen maybe twenty movies, some she never completely finished. She's been on the run since she was a child, how could she be able to have the time? Per chance, with this new living situation, she'll be able too.

For now though, Ada plans to focus solely on her task at hand - Dinner.

-

7:30 PM and the food was ready.

Ada arranged both plates to look neat. Both plates had a perfect amount of each dish, the pasta was the only one with an extra amount considering it is the main course of the night. Ada also poured wine for her and Leon, knowing he'd like it a lot. With both hands, she managed to carry everything out and set it on the coffee table. Leon glanced up at her with a smirk. "Thank you honey." "You're welcome lovely." Ada whispered softly; 'Lovely' is a nickname she's had for him forever now.

She sat down beside him, getting comfortable on the couch. Leon did the same, excited to finally get some home cooked food in his system. "It smells good." "Thank you." Ada accepted his compliment with grace. The fact he thinks it smells good means so much, but the initial taste it was truly matters.

Ada couldn't help but watch Leon intently as he took a bite of her home made pasta. At first, there wasn't a reaction, his eyes were glued to the TV. That was until he nodded and went in for another bite quickly whilst saying, "Tastes great too, thanks." Which made Ada want to coat his face in kisses. She's never came to terms with it but it's obvious her form of love language is receiving words of affirmation.

With the fact Leon enjoyed her dinner, she could now easily eat her food too.

[yggdraseed]

Thinking About the Itadori Family

Spoilers for Jujutsu Kaisen. Reader beware, you're in for a scare!

I find Kenjaku a fascinating character in a lot of different ways. There's always a game being played and a lie being told, and yet there's still this damp, flickering spark of humanity under all the theatrics, bullshit, and centuries of accumulated junk.

When Kenjaku escorted Itadori's former classmate from aeons ago back in chapter one out of the Sendai Colony, there was this really interesting softness they display nowhere else. Gone is all the pretense of mocking others and keeping secrets... perhaps because they knew most of it would be forgotten, as dreams often are. But it seems like Kenjaku may have given away some deep insight into the nature of sorcery by casually mentioning the "Cursed Realm" - which has never, to my knowledge, been mentioned before or since. Not only that, but Kenjaku tells her something truly shocking:

"Thank you for getting along with my son."

Like, you can see how weird this is, right? Face to face with Yuji, Kenjaku says, "I expect great things from you." Talking with Choso while Yuji isn't in the room, Kenjaku talks about him like some object; a mere vessel, the eye of the storm for the age to come. Talking with a non-sorcerer teenage girl who's unlikely to remember much, if any of the conversation, Kenjaku accepts Yuji as their son and expresses gratitude that she was kind to him.

So, is this a "Who we are in the dark" moment of honesty? Is this the consequence of Kenjaku being a composite of all these different personalities bubbling to the surface at different times? It's really, really hard to say. But I like the idea that somewhere at the bottom of it all, there is genuine love, if misguided in its expression. That's what I want to run with.

Personally, I've seen theories that Kenjaku duped Jin, or somehow used sorcery to enthrall him, or that Jin simply went insane before or after Kaori died and wasn't in his right mind. I think those are all possible, and they're more straightforward answers. But I want to get off the road and into the woods and see where I end up.

What if Jin knew? What if a pact was made to try to bring Kaori back, and even when the person who came back wasn't Kaori, Jin was still grateful? What if Jin was just grateful to get to see Kaori smile one last time, to get to hear her voice one last time, even if he knew in his heart it couldn't be the same ever again? Just like when Yaga brought Takeru back as a cursed corpse for Kusakabe's sister, so she could hear her son's voice and hug some part of him one last time.

And what if genuine love grew out of that gratitude? What if seeing this acceptance and kindness in Jin, of having someone give gratitude and a wish to be by Kenjaku's side, started to morph and change who Kenjaku was without them realizing the full ramifications of that at first?

What if that ache for a family, for a place to belong, for some connection to other human beings, has carved itself open inside this nomad of flesh and time? Journeying across a thousand years and potentially dozens of bodies, duping themselves into thinking they only cared about their grand experiment, only to narrowly dodge getting ensnared by their human heart and spending all this time since then trying to ignore their own humanity?

I still have a feeling Kenjaku isn't quite dead yet, and I want to believe a change that was started by Jin will have been finished by Takaba. With Kenjaku realizing they do want other people, that they do want to see human potential, not the potential of this mad experiment. And that they'll now be gunning to change the outcome of the Merger, in whatever way is possible.

Though I think this is probably just me spinning my own theories out into something that doesn't even resemble GeGe's plan. But hey! Each theory I make that's proven untrue by the author is an idea I can use in my own writing for free.

[ghoultrifle]

mushy may day seven !!!!

prompt: telling stupid jokes

characters: mount, aeon, cirrus, others mentioned vaguely

word count: 650

summary: what it says on the tin, really. mainly a poorly executed plot line around some of my favourite terrible jokes sdhfsdjkh

below the cut or on ao3 :))

“Oh Mount that was terrible,” Dewdrop says. “Truly awful, take it somewhere else man, it’s lingering like a bad fart.”

“So you don’t like my jokes now, huh? Seven was supposed to eat nine, not your sense of humour!”

A few of the ghouls are sitting in the common room. Recently back from a tour, they have few responsibilities to keep them busy during the day. Each ghoul has their own way of coping with the whiplash of tour days compared to cosy life back at the Ministry but Mountain has taken up reading a ‘One Hundred and One Jokes to Tickle Your Funny Bone’.

“No, I like them Mount, keep going,” Cirrus smiles. She’s happy the earth ghoul is keeping himself occupied, knowing all too well how easy it can be to spiral in these days before chores start up again.

“Okay okay… hmm what about this,” he says, thumbing through the pages as he bites his lip. “Two windmills are standing on a wind farm. One asks ‘What’s your favourite type of music?’” Mountain pauses for a very unnecessary dramatic effect. “The other says, ‘I’m a big metal fan.’” He slaps his knee and guffaws at the joke, letting out the heartiest of chuckles, rivalling that of a father like Omega. “Get it? Because we’re in a metal band,” he points out, painfully oblivious to the disinterest of his packmates.

Aeon, however, is having a great time. Compared with English, Ghoulish is a very direct language, more akin to those animals use to communicate about food and danger. So being topside and learning English with the pack also means being subjected to Mountain’s jokes and enjoying them. Everyone enjoys the jokes at some point, just most ghouls have heard them all too many times before. That’s the joy of new life- experiencing things for the first time- and Mountain takes pride in being able to give those experiences. The cogs turn in Aeon’s brain as he feels out for the punchline, “Oh, that was a good one!” He exclaims, making a mental note to tell it to Aurora when she gets back.

“I think you’ll like this one, Ae, have you heard the rumour about the butter?”

“No?” He answers cautiously.

“Never mind, I shouldn’t spread it,” Mountain smirks.

Aeon has a toothy grin adorning his face as he points finger guns at Mountain. “Woah, you got me good there Mounty!” He chuckles.

Cirrus looks on in adoration at the bonding between the ghouls before adding her own favourite silly joke into the mix. “Hey, what about this one?” She asks, garnering the boys’ attention. “How did Freud get his hair so soft and shiny?” With the psychoanalyst mentioned, several ears perk up to hear what they think will be the inevitable daddy-related punchline.

“He used classical conditioning!”

A wave of groans filter across the room along with a litany of jovial, light-hearted remarks at her genius joke.

“No, that one takes it, worst. joke. ever.”

“Freud is turning in his grave at that, Cir.”

“That was far worse than Mount’s, get out!”

A look of concern spreads across Rain’s face as the comments roll in, “Guys stop being so mean, it can’t be that serious.” Cirrus disagrees and repeats the joke for the water ghoul who was, at the time of the original telling, absorbed in his book. “Oh no, yeah, that was awful, you gotta leave.”

Cirrus chimes in, “Yeah! Part of telling awful jokes is the hilarious reactions you get. Aether once told me to get on a one-way flight to space and to this day it’s the greatest compliment I’ve ever received,” she says, reminiscing.

The evening descends into each ghoul telling the worst joke they can think of. Sighs, groans, and disappointed looks are rife, making the evening as enjoyable as it is.

[teaberrii]

Chapter 10: Furina de Fontaine

You and Dan Heng are a match made in heaven until fate takes him away from you too soon. Years later, you think you moved on with a mutual friend who shared your grief and stuck with you during tough times until you meet a mysterious man with a striking resemblance to your past lover and a hidden motive. You’re determined to get rid of him, but how are you going to get rid of a god?

Dan Feng/You

Notes:

Cross-posted on Ao3

Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail crossover

Female reader

Chapter index at the end of chapter one

Support my writing

Somewhere in the city, Sampo and Childe sit across each other, each with a hot drink. The cafe is abuzz with overlapping conversations, so their silence goes unnoticed until Childe’s eyes go from the window to Sampo.

“Are you still thinking about what I said?”

Should Sampo call himself lucky that he met someone like Childe? A man who knows about the Aeons but also wants to get rid of them? After getting kicked out of Dan Feng’s room at Wangshu Inn, Sampo was almost at a loss, and he never thought his job as a reaper would have gotten him out of that pinch. It was years ago, but Sampo had taken the life of a man outside a bar who had stumbled onto a busy road in a drunken stupor. Yet, it’s that experience that Sampo learned about pubs and bars, sometimes frequenting them when he visits the human realm.

And it’s at a small pub that he met Childe, a man who had one too many drinks but was sober enough to still make sense of the world. At first, he rambled about a woman named Tsaritsa, but it was the names Lan and Nanook that caught Sampo’s attention.

“They don’t belong here, you know,” Childe drawled. “They’re a pain in the ass and just because they did her one favour, she can’t get rid of them.”

And now they’re here. Face to face once again but with a similar goal.

“I don’t know whether to call you crazy or mad,” Sampo finally says. “But props for getting your hands on that note.”

Childe smiles. “Oh, it was quite an interesting find. Lan should really learn to keep his doors locked." He finishes the rest of his drink. “We’ll need all the help we can get.”

“Yet, you have no intention of working with them.”

Childe puts his elbow on the table, his hand underneath his chin. “Who? Dan Feng?” He quietly scoffs. “He’s also not supposed to be here in the first place.” Then, his dull blue eyes turn dark. “I hate all beings like you.”

“I see you think with your heart and not your head,” Sampo says flatly. “Pity. Or… is it because you’re afraid of upsetting this woman you call Tsaritsa?” Childe leans back. “You still trust her more than you trust Dan Feng. And without her… sounds like you’d be nothing.”

“You’re walking on thin ice,” Childe says through gritted teeth.

“You just want the Aeons out of her hair so things can return to ‘normal’, whatever that means,” Sampo continues. “But you can’t trust anyone in that family, can you?” He sighs. “Human bonds truly are weak and so pitiful.”

“You’re the one to talk. Gods are no better.”

Sampo crosses one leg over the other and smiles. “And if you’re not careful, we may meet again… except this time it’ll be under drastically different circumstances.”

But Childe remains unfazed. Instead, he asks:

“How did you become the reaper?”

Sampo puts his drink back on the coaster. “Is this relevant?”

“It’s natural to be curious. You must have some wild stories.”

“Stories that should be kept in the dark.” Sampo crosses his arms. “More importantly, you should be worrying about yourself. This woman, Tsaritsa, had Lan and Nanook kill a family, which means she’s capable of doing it again. Aren’t you afraid you’ll get caught in the crosshairs?”

“Why else would I have you do my dirty work?”

Sampo quietly scoffs. “You’d be naive to think you can avoid suspicion forever.”

“Is it just me, or…” Childe smiles. “It sounds like you’re worried about me.”

“Think what you will,” Sampo answers flatly.

“Worse comes to worse… It’s not me who you might meet under different circumstances.”

Sampo raises a brow. Is Childe hinting at what Sampo thinks he is?

◆◆◆

One knock.

No response.

Two more.

Still no response.

So, Rostam puts his hand on his wife’s door and says:

“I’m coming in.”

Once he pushes the door open, he sees his wife sitting at her desk with papers scattered about and a large manila envelope dangerously close to falling off the edge.

Rostam walks up to her, making sure his footsteps are loud enough so she isn’t startled by his sudden appearance. He comes behind her and puts his hands on her shoulders as his eyes scan the papers.

“It’s dinnertime, love,” he says. “What’s keeping you in here?”

“This is supposed to be evidence,” Signora says, slightly shaking her head. She spins her chair around, and Rostam lets her go and sits on the edge of the bed. He holds her hands. “Evidence that she was going replace me if she were still alive.”

“Dan Feng’s mother?”

Signora nods.

Rostam looks at the papers. “But… Is there a point in looking into this now? She’s gone.”

“I had the same thoughts,” Signora says, sighing. “But, I was still curious.”

“I assume you got this from Tsaritsa." Signora nods. "It’s possible she's doing this to mess with your head.”

“Wouldn't be surprised.”

“With all that’s going on,” Rostam says, “it’s hard to trust anyone.”

“Yes,” Signora mutters. “You’re telling me.” She spins her chair to face her desk. “There is some truth in what she said, though. They did want to sell My Fair Lady. But, it also says I’d be put onto a different management team on another company to boot sales and brand image.”

“It looks like a business strategy rather than something out of ill will.”

“What I don’t understand is the person they want to sell it to.” Signora points to a name on paper, and Rostam leans in to look closer. “This woman… While I haven’t personally met her, I have heard a lot of interesting rumours about her.”

“Furina de Fontaine?” Then, it’s as if it hits him. “Wait a minute… The Furina de Fontaine?”

“The woman who runs a luxury empire? Yes.”

“I… I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that the rich all have connections.” Rostam looks at his wife. “And what are these rumours you’ve heard?”

“That she was insane,” Signora says after a small pause.

“Insane…?"

Signora starts gathering the papers and putting them back into the manila envelope. “I don't remember any specifics,” she says with a small sigh. “I never bothered with them.” With her desk clean and the manila envelope in her hands, she turns to her husband. “But, I know at one point, people thought she should be put into a mental asylum.”

“That’s… crazy.”

“Yeah,” Signora says with a small scoff. “You’re telling me.”

“But… Regardless of the rumours, she’s done well for herself.”

“Yes, which is what baffles a lot of people.” Rostam is the first out of Signora’s room as she turns off the lights. “Her capabilities have caught worldwide attention, and many people have called the rumours a ‘stain’ on her reputation.”

Signora opens the fridge while Rostam begins setting the table for dinner.

“And how did they start?” Rostam asks, putting two plates on the table.

“Can’t tell you,” Signora answers, pouring her and her husband some drinks. “Regardless, I know she and Dan Heng’s mother were close, and you should know I’m not one to ask about gossip about others.”

Rostam and Signora sit opposite each other. “A rumour as interesting as that would pique anyone’s interest. Wonder what she thought about it.”

Signora sighs. “Well, it’s too late to ask."

Rostam picks up his chopsticks and grabs Signora some of her favourite food onto her plate. “Did anything else happen at Tsartisa’s place?”

“Besides a threat to my life if I don’t cooperate with her? No, nothing else.”

“She has another thing coming if she thinks she can do anything,” Rostam says sternly with a frown. Then, he sighs. “Why do I sense you still don’t want to let this go?”

“I have no intention of digging my own grave,” Signora says. “And I’m not going to say I’m doing it for justice.” She stabs her fork into a piece of meat. “I do, however, want to know the truth of what happened and why.”

◆◆◆

Dan Feng comes into the living room with his phone in his pocket. It’s been staying close to him as he’s yet to hear the details of your meeting with Lan, which is strange. Well, at least Dan Feng knows you’re okay from your voice message earlier.

“Your face looks better.” Dan Feng stops and turns toward the kitchen where he sees Neuvilette standing by the kitchen counter with a glass of hot tea. “You looked troubled earlier.”

“Did I?” Dan Feng asks.

“You tell me.” Neuvilette quietly sips his tea. “Is it because of her?” When Dan Feng remains silent, Neuvilette continues, “I take it you finally heard from her.”

“I have,” Dan Feng says calmly, sitting on a tall chair at the counter. “She’s having lunch with the team.” A pause. “Including Lan.”

“Is it just me, or… are you a little too worried about this woman?”

“Worried? I’m not worried.”

Neuvilette grabs his friend a cup, pours him some tea, and puts it in front of him. “You said you had a personal reason for keeping her close. Does it have something to do with how your brother died in this world?”

A pause.

“There’s a possibility she might not be the woman who I thought she was.”

Neuvilette regards his friend for a brief moment. “Is that good, or am I missing something?”

“Tell me, Neuvilette, what do you think about reincarnations?”

“I’ve read about them,” Neuvilette says. “But, it’s sometimes hard to tell whether someone is truly the reincarnation of another. It’s like putting together a puzzle.” He takes another sip of his tea. “Are you looking for someone?”

Dan Feng tightens his grip around his cup. “A woman who my brother and I knew when we were humans.”

And that’s enough to answer half of Neuvilette’s questions.

“And if I may ask… What happened to this woman?”

Another pause.

“She killed herself."

The front door opens, and Bailu’s sing-song voice instantly changes the atmosphere.

“We’re baaack! And we brought snacks!”

The door opens a little wider, and Zhongli enters the apartment with bags of groceries. Dan Feng gets off the chair, and Neuvilette walks to the door to help his friend.

“Traffic was terrible,” Zhongli says, passing a bag to Neuvilette while Dan Feng grabs one from Bailu.

“But we made it out alive!” Bailu follows Dan Feng to the kitchen where he puts the bag on the counter. “Did anything happen while we’re gone?” Dan Feng and Neuvilette glance at each other. “Oh!” Bailu turns to Dan Feng. “Did you hear anything from your girlie friend?”

“Girlie friend?” Dan Feng deadpans.

"Well, last time I called her your girlfriend, and you went all"—Bailu lowers her voice—"'she's not my girlfriend.' So, girlie friend, it is. Doesn't sound as serious."

“She’s having lunch with her co-workers,” Dan Feng says calmly.

“Lan included,” Neuvilette adds.

“Did she say anything about her meeting with him?” Zhongli asks.

“No.”

“Nothing? At all?” Bailu asks, surprised. “Like… she just shot you a simple text that she’s having lunch with one of the most dangerous gods out there?”

Neuvilette opens one of the bags, secretly looking for the snacks Bailu mentioned. “Well, what else can she do?”

Bailu looks at the clock. “But, didn’t they talk for a while?”

Zhongli opens a bag and takes out a bag of beef jerky. “Let’s wait and see.” He passes it to Neuvilette who looks at it curiously. “This isn’t something we can rush.”

“Lan probably planted some weird ideas into her head,” Bailu says, sighing. She takes the bag from Neuvilette who’s having trouble opening it and rips it open. She takes a beef jerky for herself before passing the bag back to him. “But she should know that he’s going to say something strange.”

“Maybe even the truth about us,” Zhongli says quietly. “But… No one would believe that. No human, at least.”

“Here’s a thought…” Neuvilette taste-tests the beef jerky and with a satisfied nod, he nibbles a part of it off and swallows it. “What if she’s not?” He looks at Dan Feng. “What if she’s a reincarnation?”

Bailu slightly raises her hands. “Whoa. What are you talking about, Neuvi? Where did this come from?”

“A conversation Dan Feng and I were having before you came back.”

“And what if she is?” Zhongli asks. “A reincarnation would still be human. They wouldn’t know the truth about gods, magic, and the like.”

Neuvilette passes Bailu the beef jerky bag and she reaches in. “But,” she says, “they could get their memories back, can’t they? I read about that somewhere…”

“There hasn’t been any evidence that they do,” Dan Feng says.

Bailu takes a bite of a long piece of jerky. “Well… Why don’t you take the initiative and text her?” She puffs out her chest. “We need to talk.”

“Yes, and that won’t cause any anxiety or anything,” Neuvilette says flatly, taking the jerky bag back from Bailu.

And that’s when Dan Feng’s phone buzzes with a message. Everyone watches in anticipation as Dan Feng pulls out his phone and reads the text on the screen.

“Well?” Bailu asks carefully after a moment of silence.

“It’s not from her,” Dan Feng says, and the others sigh. “But…” Dan Feng looks up. “Have any of you heard of someone named Furina?”

The jerky bag drops onto the counter.

Bailu looks from the bag to her friend. “Neuvi…?”

“Who told you that name?” Neuvilette finally asks.

Everyone glances at each other.

“Signora,” Dan Feng answers.

“And how does she know that name?”

“You’re scaring me, Neuvi,” Bailu says, a slight quiver in her voice. “Is Furina someone you know?”

Neuvilette takes a small breath. “Perhaps.”

◆◆◆

“Tell me,” Lan said. “Do you believe in gods?”

Perhaps it was his words or his stare, but something compelled you to sit back on the couch, which made you believe you lost your mind.

“And what does that have to do with anything?” you asked flatly.

“Everything,” he answered like it was obvious. “The man you thought was on your side all this time… He’s one of them. One of us."

“Okay,” you said, scoffing. “You’re completely out of your mind.”

“How do you think your boyfriend died?” Your gaze hardened when you looked at him. “It’s unexplainable.”

“Where’s your proof?” you asked flatly.

Lan leaned forward and put his elbows on his knees. “Nanook and I… We cursed the pilot before they left.” His gaze turned sharp. “As soon as that plane took off, they were done.”

“Right… And how did you ‘curse’ the pilot? Wave a magic wand?”

“Please,” Lan said with a scoff. “This is the real world, not one of your fairytales.” Then, he raised his hand and snapped his fingers.

You gasped when your teacup suddenly shattered into pieces, the coffee pouring perfectly into the small circle on the center of the plate.

Lan sighed and stood. “A pity that this is all I have left. Well, then again, at least I can still do something, unlike Nanook." You slowly looked at him, and he smiled. “The pilot crashed that plane, and when he did, our curse engulfed the entire plane like flames.” You clenched your fists. “It even ate away their bodies. Interesting how some curses work, huh? But, rest assured that it was a painless death.”

“Why?” you seethed. “What would you gain from killing them?”

Lan walked toward you until he was at arm’s length. “I need to find someone, and I had to find someone to help me while I’m in this pitiful realm.” He suddenly grabbed your wrist and pulled you toward him. “And just like Dan Feng, you just might be the woman I’m looking for.”

Then, the phone on his desk rang.

You still aren’t sure what to think.

You’re sitting in front of your computer, looking up anything you can find about gods. While you encounter the common stories and lore, there’s nothing about Lan, Nanook, and… Dan Feng. After some time of coming up empty, you sigh and lean back in your chair. You want to believe Lan is messing with you, and you wish that is the case. But with the cup suddenly shattering and your strange dreams, you’re having second thoughts. You've always been fascinated by deities and their stories, but can they truly exist? 

You look at your phone beside your laptop. You’ve thought about asking Dan Feng, but the scare earlier still makes your hair stand on end.

You'd returned to your apartment and were changing into something more comfortable. After closing your closet door, you spun around when you saw Dan Feng appear behind you. But he wasn't there, only his reflection. Yet, he looked far from the man you know. His eyes were bloodshot, and there were veiny horns on his head that were red as blood. Your hands flew to your neck as there was a tightness in your throat that numbed you.

But all you felt was Dan Heng’s necklace.

Suddenly, just when you were on the verge of losing consciousness, the numbness disappeared. When you looked at your reflection in the large mirror, he was gone, but you saw a handprint on your neck before it vanished.

What in the world was that?

You put your elbows on the table with your hands entwined and Lan’s words echo in the back of your mind: And just like Dan Feng, you just might be the woman I’m looking for.

You remember the late-night conversation with Dan Feng about reincarnations and his one-sided love. If there’s truth in Lan’s words, does this mean Dan Feng thinks you’re that woman…? A woman from his past? A woman from…

You gently put your hands on your boyfriend’s shoulders, and he swiftly turned around. You quietly chuckled, careful not to make much noise as you were in the library. Dan Heng had an open book in front of him. At first, you thought it was a textbook from one of his classes until you sat next to him.

“Magic and reincarnation?” you asked. “I didn’t know you were interested in these kinds of things.”

“Ah, it was a book recommended to me.”

“By who?”

“Furina de Fontaine.”

You sighed. "You really live in a completely different world. That woman is like... a billionaire." You scooted closer to him while Dan Heng got close enough for you to lean your head against his shoulder. "You and your mother went to dinner with her, right? How was it?"

He kissed the top of your head. “It was good.” He closed the book, giving you a peek at the title: The Book of Curses. “This is quite interesting.”

“I trust that it’s not a bunch of strange superstitions, right?”

Dan Heng chuckled. “No. It’s supposedly based on history. Origins, scholars, sorcerers, and the downfall of how magic all ended.”

“Sounds like something straight out of fiction.”

“I thought so too. But, well…”

“Wait a minute.” You leaned in for a better look, and that was when you saw it: a faint name strewn just below the title: Furina de Fontaine.

“She wrote this?” you asked in disbelief. “I…  I don’t mean to sound rude, but you’ve heard of the rumours, haven’t you?”

“I have,” Dan Heng said. “So has my mother.”

“So… Why would she recommend this to you?”

Dan Heng opened the book again and went to a page. Your eyes widened when you saw sketches of three people. Two men with an uncanny resemblance to Dan Heng. The one on the left was a replica while the one in the middle right had longer hair with elf-like ears. The last one on the right was a woman with a soft look in her eyes.

“Is that…” You looked closer at the two men. “Is that you?”

“The thing is… I’ve never met her until that night.”

Your hair stood on end. “Wait, so… you mean she somehow drew you without ever meeting you? And... Why are you in this book?"

You quickly open a new tab and look up The Book of Curses. After scrolling through multiple websites, you finally find the book by Furina de Fontaine. But while you can’t get access to the entire book, there are a few scanned pages available, one of which is the sketch of one of the men that resembles Dan Heng. Except, this time, it isn’t your past lover you see.

◆◆◆

When Childe returns to the mansion that night, he’s not expecting to hear an annoying, familiar voice from the living room.

“When are you going to introduce your new friend to us?”

Childe stops and looks at the young man sitting on the couch. His feet are on the table, but a book covers his face until he lowers it, and then Childe sees Scaramouche’s snarky grin.

“We’re all dying to meet him,” he continues.

“What friend?”

Scaramouche closes his book and puts it beside him. “You’re too old to be playing dumb, Tartaglia.” Childe glares at him. “Oh, sorry. I forgot your real name is off-limits.”

“Are you so bored that you're spying on people?” Childe asks, standing behind the couch opposite Scaramouche.

“I’m just trying to keep the peace, believe it or not,” Scaramouche says. “We don’t want any surprises sneaking up on us now that we already have unwanted ones running around.” His eyes land on Childe. “Did you know Signora came over?”

“I suppose Tsaritsa gave her all the details about selling her business to Furina,” Childe deadpans.

“Is that friend of yours a friend of hers? Are they both total nut jobs?”

“Nut jobs?” Childe asks, scoffing. “With what we know about Lan and Nanook, they’re far from nut jobs.” He puts his hands on the top of the sofa. “All these years of people saying belonged in a mental asylum… Furina might’ve been the sanest out of all of us.”

Scaramouche rolls his eyes. “Oh, please.”

“That man,” a voice says from the shadows of the room before he walks out. “He can’t be trusted.”

Without turning his head, Scaramouche looks at Pierro. “Fancy seeing you here this time of night. Isn’t it way past your bedtime?”

“Sampo is a man who doesn’t play by anyone’s rules,” Pierro says.

“How do you know who he is?” Childe asks, narrowing his eyes. “Have you met?”

“Stop getting involved with him,” Pierro says, ignoring Childe’s question. “If you know what’s good for you… and this family.”

Pierro turns around, but Scaramouche’s order surprisingly stops him. “You’re not just going to leave after saying that, are you?” He stands. “Explain, Pierro. What do you know about this man? Is he a god?”

“I don’t know anything about him,” Pierro says dryly. “But, if you must know, I’ve read about him.”

Scaramouche sighs. “It’s that memoir, isn’t it? Your… great-grandfather’s?”

“Funny how we’re labelling Furina as the crazy one when there’s a candidate that’s just as qualified,” Childe mutters.

“You’d be wise to watch your tongue,” Pierro says, his voice low.

Childe steps back and raises his hands as if surrendering.

“Let me put the two together,” Scaramouche says. “You’re saying you know of that man through your great-grandfather’s journal?”

“How do you know it’s the same guy?” Childe challenges. “Might just be a doppelganger.”

“Sampo is Death,” Pierro says. “Am I wrong? Or, has he not told you?”

Childe crosses his arms and looks away.

“Death?” Scaramouche repeats in disbelief. “What the hell is that supposed to mean? He’s… what? The Grim Reaper?” He looks between the two men. “Well? Don’t just stay bloody quiet!”

“He was the one who made a deal with my great-grandfather before the war,” Pierro says.

Scaramouche sighs. “Okay. I know it’s a bad omen to speak ill of the dead, but can we trust the words of a man who’s been fucking dead for god knows how long?”

“That’s quite cordial coming from you, Scaramouche,” Pierro says flatly.

“Oh, I know,” Scaramouche mutters.

“Where is this journal?” Childe asks. “I want to read it.”

“I do too,” Scaramouche says, sighing. “I feel like it was just yesterday we were labelling you and Furina as the crazies.”

Childe puts a hand on the sofa. “Yes. I remember you told us about this journal a long time ago. We all dismissed it as something ridiculous even when you showed us the man who looked exactly like Dan Heng.”

“Yes, well, it’s with Tsaritsa,” Pierro answers.

“Oh, of course,” Scaramouche says, rolling his eyes. “Ladies first, huh?”

◆◆◆

Dan Feng is reading in the living room when he hears footsteps. He looks up and sees Bailu in her comfy pyjamas.

“Have you talked to Neuvi?” she asks, sitting on the couch adjacent to Dan Feng.

He puts his book down and shakes his head. “Haven’t seen him.”

Bailu looks down. “Oh.”

“Are you worried because of the conversation earlier?”

“Well… When I think about it, none of us really know much about each other, even though we’ve been together for like… what? Years and years and years?”

“It’s reasonable, I think.” Now, Dan Feng looks down. “We might not be aware of individual circumstances, but it’s no secret that all of us suffered. Or else we wouldn't be here.” Then, he looks at her. “If we wanted to talk about it, we would’ve done so by now.”

Bailu sighs. “Yeah… I guess you’re right.” She leans back. “But, it makes me wonder… Who’s Furina? Is she someone like us…? If Neuvi supposedly knows her, then that means she isn’t human. So… Who is she, and what she is doing here?” A gasp. “Could she be the one who released Lan and Nanook? Or knows whoever did?”

Dan Feng doesn’t get a chance to reply as his phone buzzes. He takes it out of his pocket and sees a message from you on the screen.

We need to talk.

Chapter 11

End notes:

I've been playing Persona 3 Reload, and it's taking over my life. Anyway, writing bratty Scaramouche gives me life lmao And... Is everyone's pasts connected...? HMMM...

Hope y'all enjoyed this update <3

Tag list: @lunavixia @aerithsthingss @sunsethw4 @boomie-123

[green-tea-in-absinthe-bottle]

THE NIGHT BELONGS TO YOU - chapter 4

Blade x fem reader fanfic

MASTERLIST

Summary - Reader's first mission for stellaron hunters takes unexpected turn as IPC's attack unforeseen by Elio forces her to act outside of script

Chapter 4 – If your wings won’t find you heaven I will bring it down like an ancient bygone 

 - Oh shit. Is this a part of the plan? - they exchanged anxious glances. 

 - It was not in the script...Fuck. - Blade cursed. He gently took her jaw in his hand and turned her head to the side to see if she got hurt by the bullet. Thankfully, not even a scratch was visible on her skin. Relieved man gave her a domineering look and muttered lowly. – Stay behind, I will get the job done. Car is bulletproof. 

 He came outside. It was truly a sight to behold, his burning sword dealing with enemies one after another, while he danced among them with infernal precision, avoiding all of their attacks.  Y/n didn’t plan to be a damsel in distress either, she quietly put on bulletproof vest Blade kept in his car just in case and searched her surroundings for a  weapon. She exhaled deeply at the sight of loaded glock. Trying to not think too much about it she opened the door, came out of car and kneeled beside it. Covered by the machine she shot two people who got way too close to her partner in crime for her liking.  

His pupils blown wide when he saw her and she could swear he wanted to bend her over his knee and give her a good spanking.  With the speed of the lightning he appeared by her side and swung his sword. She heard painful moan from behind her. She turned around. Body of IPC soldier fell to the ground few seconds later. If Blade didn’t hurry she would be dead by now. 

 - Thank you for saving me. - y/n was too ashamed to look him in the eye. 

 - Didn’t I tell you to stay in safety? What is wrong with you? - he growled scanning their surroundings for more potential opponents. 

 - I have some experience with fighting and it’s not my style to let others sacrifice for me. I’m sorry if I was a problem. I will think twice next time.  

 Blade only groaned in response. 

  - Let’s get away from here, soon more of them will probably show up. - he barely managed to end this sentence when whistle of a bullet cut him off. Red blood spilled over his shirt around midriff area. He threw a knife in direction of his opponent and judging by sound that came from their side, he managed to aim right into the throat.  

 - Are you ok? - y/n asked in panic. He snorted. 

 - I am never OK. Every single one of my days is filled with pain of immortality, I want this pain to stop and I forbid you to stand between me and my end. You cannot safe me. You shouldn’t try to.- Blade pressed his hand to the wound, coughing. -  And for Aeons sake, never sacrifice yourself for me, no matter what. It would be a waste to have you suffer for such hopeless individual as me. You can be a pain in the neck, do you know?  

Now y/n really had enough of this.  

 - Since when are you so talkative, hmm? I thought you considered yourself too doomed to even open your mouth in my presence? - she tried to give him a serious look. 

 - Don’t be such a child. - he responded, clearly irritated. - As long as you don’t do any stupid moves, think whatever you want of me. We didn’t fully trust you at first because Elio couldn’t see much into your future in this timeline so there was no need to get all chatty, was it? Now you proved you are willing to cooperate and how are we supposed to co-work if we don’t communicate? - he tried reasoning with her, but his voice came out weak due to his injuries. 

 Despite her annoyance she took him by the hand to drag him into the car, she couldn’t let him just bleed out in the middle of the road.  

 - You tell me. You tell me how are we supposed to work without communication since from the beginning you only tell me what to do. You guys get all those scripts and never tell me a single word out of them. - Y/n raised her voice. 

 - Stop it already, there is no time to scream at each other right now. - Blade gave up. - Do you know how to drive? 

 - No. I’m sorry. 

 - In that case I still have some strength to drive us to the nearest safe place, one of the deserted houses we occupy during our missions occasionally. It’s a few minutes away.- he decided. - For now I will quickly wrap bandage around my waist to not bleed out before we get there. Not that I would mind getting rid of this reincarnation that is already way too long.  

 - It’s hard to do on your own, let me help. That was my main function during the time we tried to save Arkona. I had to fight sometimes but I was mostly taking care of other’s wounds. I had some experience in that, I was the only caretaker of my mother after her accident so my first thought when the hell begun was to become a nurse.  

 - I do this for myself for centuries, I will be fine without your help. - he instantly rejected her proposition.  

 - But it will be faster with some help. 

 - It would be faster if you didn’t whine so much. - he muttered while handing her a bandage roll with loud sigh. - But if you so insist I guess I would rather let you do this than fight all the way there. 

 *** 

She supported his weakened body on the way to the couch. Place was tiny and not very neat, but that was all they had for now. Blade barely walked, there was no way he could endure trip back home in such state. 

 - Your wound needs to be cleansed and taken care of. - Y/n informed him. - Don’t even try to argue.  

 - I don’t need this. - he insisted. - If it’s so important to you, you can find ointment in the kitchen if I remember correctly, shelf near the door, right next to hydrogen peroxide.  

She didn’t waste any time and quickly grabbed two bottles. When she came back to the living room she almost dropped them. Blade took off both the bandage and his shirt. His toned chest glistened with sweat, she looked down at the wound. Surprisingly, it didn’t look as drastic as it should.  

 - It’s a part of my curse, my body heals from everything at inhuman speed. Tomorrow I will be fine and we can return to headquarters to report our miserable failure. There is no need to call for help for somebody like me, who only craves death and self-destruction and regenerates like Wolverine. 

 - Have you watched that movie? - Y/n was a bit surprised Blade used a modern pop-culture reference. 

- Not really, Silver Wolf told me all about him, he’s her favourite superhero.  

Arkonian smiled at him recalling all cute moments her beloved duo had together. 

-You know, - he muttered - for a second I hoped that today will be the last day of my life, I always do. Why do you insist on fixing me? Are you stupid? This blade is broken beyond repair and you are gonna cut yourself if you try to maintain it. - he looked her in the eyes in challenging way.  

 - What if I understand this and I don’t want to fix you at all? - she took a risk of being vulnerable.  

 - In that case why do you care about me? - confusion was visible on his face.  

 - Can I tell you something about my life before Xianzhou Xianzhou? 

 - I see no need to do this but if you want to I won’t stop you.  

Y/n poured a bit of hydrogen peroxide on gauze and pressed it against his wound, He didn’t even flinch or hold his breath.  

 - Since I remembered I only could rely on my mother, father died right before my 10th birthday and we had no other relatives besides my auntie who lived in a big city and came to visit our village like twice a year. But she used to bring me expensive gifts and was very laid back so as a kid I was enchanted by her.   

We lived on a small farm near the holy mountain. We loved this place despite the amount of work we had to do around it . My psychic gift of mediumship had a chance to really bloom thanks to closeness of Saintcross. I felt blessed by the Goddess of divination and guidance who according to legends lived on it’s peak. We called her Light for all the lost souls in our prayers. - when y/n closed her eyes she could still smell flowercrowns of roses they used to sacrifice during the most important holyday related to the Goddess.  

 - When I was a pre-teen my mother had a terrible accident. Once my mom tried to repair the roof on her own as we had no man in the house and she was a strong, capable woman. She fell down from the ladder. Even tho doctor came as soon as he could and she barely managed to survive this – even after rehabilitation her body was not the same. We suspected they put her bones together in a wrong way or that she got some nerve damage. Her right hand lost most of it’s dexterity, and her back was in constant pain.  - Blade looked down at his own hands. Y/n stared at the wall, overwhelmed by homesickness. 

 - Till Arkona was attacked we went by thanks to painkillers she had to take. But when this crisis happened she lost access to them. She was in such pain she used to pray for death. I couldn’t watch this anymore, but she didn’t have anybody else. She refused to eat more and more often. I massaged her hand and back just like doctor taught me to, but without her pills it just wasn’t enough.  

Tears run down her face. She needed a break so she took the ointment and applied it to the wound. Blade didn’t rush her, he just let her gather her thoughts.  

 - My mother had a heart defect that is passed down in our family, I don’t have it but my mother, grandma and greatgrandma were born with it. It never caused her bigger problems while she was medicated, but when she lost access to her pills... One night her back pain was extremely overwhelming, she cried so hard her heart couldn’t take it anymore. She passed away. I lost my only family that night, auntie stopped contacting us as soon as she heard about mother’s accident so she doesn’t count.- Y/n laughed bitterly. 

 - Still, I felt relief. - she admitted without shame. - Not because taking care of her was so hard and I couldn’t take her screams of pain anymore tho it was true. I felt relief cause she didn’t have to suffer anymore. I felt greatest pain of my life too, but I didn’t have the right to want her to stay with me when nothing could have been done for her. I couldn’t be happy in my old home knowing that this happiness would be build on her suffering, even if I was so scared, so terrified and I never knew anything else. I know how to let people go when it is necessary and I fucking hate how all things fade.  - Blade reached out for her hand but she didn’t even pay attention to him anymore, so he retreated. 

 - After that I joined rebellion against abominations as a nurse, wanting to use skills I learned for my mother’s sake for the greater good. I was taught how to shoot as a part of the training, but I was always more interested in medical parts of it. But even for my beloved Arkona nothing could have been done.- her voice broke a little. - When it became clear that all is lost in the last desperate attempt to save anything from our culture and civilization we assembled a huge starship with all we had. Few dozens survivors, the last of Arkonians. We somehow managed to get away from our dying planet despite abominations circling it, but our ship crashed on nearby planet due to defects in it’s construction. I was the only one that lived, only because of Lan’s blessing I received that day. Till this day I feel constant survivor’s guilt. Good people found me and for a small price of my mother’s wedding band I took as a memento previously,- her voice choked oh her emotions-  they took me to Xianzhou Luofu.

Blade looked at her with endless compassion in his eyes. She couldn’t believe, that a man like him was capable of such gentleness. He felt this kind of empathy only very old and experienced people are able to feel. With wide open eyes he stared at her in silence. She picked up fresh bandage and put it around his waist.  

 - So be sure of that, I don’t help you cause I hope that you will get better or will rediscover your will to live. I know none of those things will happen. I accept you the way you are, broken blade with all it’s weak points and sharp bits. I won’t try to stop you from death when it comes for you for real cause I have no right to do so. I didn’t massage my mothers hand in hope that it will be better. - she sat down next to him after making sure the bandage was secured. - I just hoped to bring her some relief. We all age and sooner or later most of us will have to live with disabled bodies. Some of us like Firefly have to go through illness and it’s symptoms sooner then the others and all they can do is to try to give their existence meaning and find joy in it despite pain they go through. To me lives like those matter, can be beautiful and worth living.  - she looked him straight in the eye, hesitance visible in her gaze. - If you don’t want my help I no longer will push myself on you as I have no right to make such decisions for you either. I will accept it and treat you like a human being with his own mind and right to control what happens with his body. I don’t expect you to be grateful for things you didn’t ask for.  

Finally, she stopped speaking. She felt that she bared her souls too much, for too long, that she burdened him with her grief... Before she managed  to drown herself in shame and guilt he spoke up.  

 - I don’t remember much from my life as Yingxing. Last clear memories I have ... Sight of this forsaken woman, killing me time and time again. Her sword plunging into my insides. Carving her cursed mantra into my brain... “out of five people...”. Yes. Even when I think of this, phantom pains pierce through my whole body. All I want is for them to stop. The few things from Yingxing life I can still recall... Eyes of the man whose arrogance put me in this situation, man I promised to kill...I promised to her.  

Arkonian shifted uncomfortably in her seat but the sight of madness in his eyes stopped her from interrupting. Unaware of her reaction Blade continued, his attention for once not on y/n.  

 - I also remember joy of creation. How my hands moved, so precisely. My muscle memory never failed me. They never failed me.  My talented hands and things that they created where my joy, my pride. I never imagined that one day I could lose it. At first when I realized that my hands got damaged beyond repair in process of torture she inflicted on me and nothing can be done about it I became depressed. Completely apathetic to the world around me. I lived in wilderness, glad that at least I can still use the sword, but I had no purpose. Eventually driven by desperation I decided to sacrifice myself to become weapon, my last creation. Just like that, it didn’t matter to me anymore that I couldn’t craft swords,  I forged myself into a Blade, and I seek fight cause the only way can a Blade die – is to get broken while it is unsheathed. Before that will happen I plan to do anything possible to take away life of the man who manipulated me, used my arrogance against me and turned me into this monster! - Blade almost screamed out the last part, aura of insanity surrounded him. 

 Y/n thought to herself, that the one who truly changed his life into nightmare was the woman who killed him so many times instead. Whole thing seemed super shady to her – Blade had no memories left and all he spoke about was based on his assumptions and all that mad woman told him when she was attacking him. Still, y/n let him speak further. 

 - I don’t crave to be the man I once was again, I have no such ambition. I gave myself new purpose and I want to fulfill it with all my potential, unless death will bless me with an ending to my pain sooner. You don’t plan to keep me from it? Very well, it would be unwise of you to even dream of it. - he went silent for a few seconds, and closed his eyes. Y/n rubbed his shoulder trying to calm him down a bit and he let her do so. When he opened them again he looked way more sane. - Most people won’t believe this due to drastic changes in my behaviour occurring when I become mara struck, but my mind is just as sharp as it has always been. I don’t need to make machines with my own hands in order to know perfectly how they will work. I lost most of my interest in my past hobbies by now, but my opinions are still very valuable. That’s why Elio requested my assistance for the project which resulted in creation of the machine he wanted us to try out. I won’t pretend that I wasn’t a little bit excited by the opportunity. - he choked on the last words that came out of his mouth. Attitude and energy faded away from his system at the same time, he looked pale, tired and small.  

 - Don’t worry – y/n interrupted, her hands hesitantly leaving his body. - There will be another occasion to do so. For now please try to rest, so your body can regenerate properly, even if you don’t want it to. The sooner we will be able to come back to headquarters the better. - she hanged back for a moment before she spoke up again. - Blade? Are your hands in pain? 

He glared at her through his long eyelashes. She felt her heart skip a beat but tried to repress her feelings for the man in front of her. It wasn’t the right time for such things.  

 - Yes, they are. Sometimes whole my body is in pain. Why would you ask? 

 - If you wouldn’t mind I would gladly massage them for you on the worse days.  - man glared at her in response to such a brash idea – It used to help my mother a bit so maybe it could be of use to you as well. It will not make them work better with your kind of damage I believe, but it might make them less stiff and relieve the pain to some extent. 

 - I will consider this, but if I were you I wouldn’t get my hopes too high. - Blade answered, knowing already he wanted to give it a try, even tho he did not expect it to help in any way.  

She got up and left the room taking hydrogen peroxide and ointment with her. It was a long day for both of them and she felt it in every single one of her muscles. 

 - I take the bedroom, you make yourself comfortable here. See you tomorrow in the morning. - y/n name bid him farewell, walking towards the door.  

 - Sure. - Blade came back to his usual, laconic self. His gaze followed her till she disappeared on the other side of the door. 

***  

Kitchen filled with delicious aroma of freshly made comfort food, a cup of hot tea and snacks found in the cabinet. Y/n was extremely grateful to the last team who used the flat for replenishing food supplies. Could morning be any better? 

As soon as Blade entered the kitchen with only shower towel wrapped around his waist,  Y/n came to a conclusion that it apparently could. His moist skin was glistening, every muscle emphasized in morning light. Where the wound should have been, there was only a scar.  

 - Good morning. Eat this, you deserve it for saving my life yesterday. - she passed him plate with omelette. He took it without a word and sat down. 

 - Don’t mention it. How did you sleep? - He tasted the food and his pupils widened. 

 - It could have been better, but it should be me who asks this question. What about your wound? - she bit her lip. 

 - I told you already. - he rolled his eyes at her. - You don’t need to worry, my body heals itself quickly. Can’t you see? I’m fine.  By the way, y/n? 

 - Yes, sir? 

 - This is fucking delicious.  

His compliment made her way happier than she would like to be. The amount of power this man held over her, truly shameful. There was no time for that right now, they still had things to do. She cleared her throat before speaking. 

 - When should we come back to headquarters? I bet others worry about us.  

 - I don’t think they do, everybody knows I’m basically indestructible. - Blade declared, full of himself. - What kind of bad thing could happen to you while I watch over you? 

 - I mean yesterday it was pretty close. If you were just a tiny bit slower... 

 - Yeah, that’s why I plan to train you myself when we return. I don’t trust nobody else with that. After we clean up get into the car, we are going back this morning.- Blade decided. 

*** 

Y/n stared at him for a few minutes before he sighed and questioned her openly, his attention seemingly on the road ahead. 

 - What is it?  

 - Why did you really open up to me? I know it’s not because of this mission. It’s not in your style. - she played with the hem of her tank top anxiously, now avoiding eye contact with him. 

 - If you really have to know that, the day before you fainted I had a serious talk with Elio. That’s why I knew exactly when to appear in front of his door. - he smirked. 

Arkonian assumed, that this was the conversation she overheard. The one she mentioned to Firefly. She kept that to herself. 

 - In short, he finally saw your future. You are more important than you know, but what matters the most for me is that you truly belong with us, won’t betray us and you get along with the girls. - he gave her genuine smile. It was her first time seeing him like that  and she already knew it was her favourite sight in the whole wide world. - My company is not the most pleasant one and my mental health is on all time low but if it doesn’t bother you, I guess I don’t mind you hanging out with me.  

 - So we are friends now? - her eyes lit up with hope.  

 - We’ll see about that.  

Y/n pouted at this dry response, yet somehow she felt better now, as if the weight of his distrust was taken off her shoulders. The road back home has passed quickly and this time with no complications.  

 *** 

Mission related to sigil got postponed. Elio explained to them, that untill he will be able to identify the reason of his mistake and eliminate it for the sake of safety of everyone involved in fulfilling scripts based on his prophetic credibility, all the missions are put on hold. Such things happened before, very rarely. Usually Elio pushing himself to channel as much information as possible in a short time and overexerting himself turned out to be the reason. Few days of rest were enough for him to get a grip in the past.  

Y/n wondered if that means Blade will return to his previous, cold attitude towards her, but it didn’t seem to be the case.  

 - Well, prophecies are one thing, but don’t you believe I can also think for myself and judge people correctly? - good-looking swordsman grumbled, sipping coffee from the mug he got as a present from Firefly. - I have been roaming known universe for centuries, saw countless lives pass. There is not a single human experience I wouldn’t be familiar with, I have seen it all.  

High pitched sound of microwave’s signal cut him off, with a growl he pulled out two meat pockets from it and passed one of them to y/n. She bit into it cravingly, spicy flavour attacked her taste buds but she wouldn’t want it any other way. Blade sat right next to her at the table. 

 - You were ready to risk your life just to make sure I won’t get hurt, I did the same for you. That's not the way enemies or strangers usually behave towards each other, am I right? - his patience was running thin. - I know I can trust you. I want to believe that. Do you trust me?  

 - I mean, sure, you guys did kidnap me like two months ago... but considering the kind of damage IPC would be able to inflict on entire galaxies if they had monopoly on my gift  I guess I can forgive you. But only because you all did give me a chance to go away if I wished to do so. - Arkonian smiled at slightly ashamed man.  

 - Oh come on, you know what I mean. Do you trust me? - he repeated, his sharp eyes gazing into hers. - Whoever you see when you look at what’s left of me. Do you trust that person? 

Flashbacks from the last few days appeared in her mind. This man protected her from danger, let her touch his body in weak, vulnerable state. He seemed to truly care about her when there was no reason to do so, no profit from it. Most importantly, he bared his true self, broken fragments of his soul in front of her. She answered with full certainty. 

 - Yes, I do.  

 - Why? - his eyes darkened, raw emotion took them over.  

 - Oh, our lovebirds got up already? - Melodic, feminine voice interrupted their conversation. They didn’t even notice when Kafka came to the kitchen, summoned by alluring smell of breakfast. Blade’s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. - This looks so good, can I have one? 

  Male scoffed with irritation, but gave her the last meat pocket regardless. 

 - Why are you grumpy like that, Bladie? - woman teased. - You can’t behave all nonchalantly towards y/n when Wolfie has a whole footage of you running through half of our base just to catch her in perfect time before she faints in front of Elio’s office. What a sight! You were like chivalrous knight in hurry to save the honor of the lady of his heart! I’m so glad that part of Elio’s prophecy was correct. - Kafka clearly had the time of her life, while Blade prayed for the ground to open up and swallow him whole. - Have fun you two! - she blew a kiss to her local medium girl and went outside.  

 - If your question still stands I just wanted to say, that I begun trusting you because you were honest with me during our mission and I am aware of how much it cost you... -  Arkonian smirked – but now situation got way more interesting. You are never gonna let me down, right ,,Bladie”? 

 Reference flew over his head unfortunately. In desperate attempt to distract her from teasing him further Blade decided it was his time to ask questions.  

 - I’m glad you appreciate my sincerity. I hope you can be just as frank with me in return. So, some of those things you confessed to me yesterday about your life at Xianzhou...  

 - Yes, dear? 

 - How close was your friendship with this whole... Master Zhang? - he just couldn’t help but be a little bit jealous that this guy got to co-work with her, not to mention in his area of expertise. Blade was sure that if he was still able to craft, she wouldn’t even look at Zhang’s (probably mediocre in comparison) weapons. Obviously, what’s the point of wasting good spells on them if she could bless his masterpieces instead? 

Y/n just rolled her eyes at him in disbelief. His phone vibrated, she glanced at it curiously, knowing it was never locked either way. Message from Elio made her choke a bit on the last bite of her food. 

"Everybody gather in my office immediately, it's urgent." 

[darksiders-scenarios]

Hey! Welcome back honey-bee!

If your doing requests (old and new) I was wondering if you would mind doing a personal one?

I just got accepted into Harvard on full scholarship and I start next Monday for spring semester, and was wondering if you could do a HC or scenario about the Horsemen + Azrael reacting to their human sharing and celebrating the news with them?

Thank you so much and again, it’s good to have you back 😘

Congratulations!! The Horsemen and Azrael would be incredibly supportive and proud of you – just as we are! Your hard work and brilliance truly paid off . 💪❤️ I hope this answer helps.

D'aww you called me honey-bee ahh-

*

War offers a nod of reverence, recognising the strength and determination it took to achieve such a feat. He looks you directly in the eyes. "Your strength is not just in battle, but in the pursuit of what lies beyond the horizon. This achievement... it's a testament to your courage and resolve.”   

Death, with his deep understanding of the value of knowledge, expresses a quiet pride in your accomplishment. "Use this knowledge wisely," he advises, his voice carrying the weight of aeons, encouraging you to embrace the power of learning for the greater good.

Fury, ever passionate, encourages you to take on this new challenge with all the fierceness she knows you possess. "To Harvard, then! May your quest for knowledge be as ferocious as the battles we face," she exclaims, her enthusiasm infectious.  

Strife cracks a joke, insisting on a celebration. "Harvard, huh? Make sure you school 'em not just in academics but in having a good time too!" Yet, behind his jest, lies genuine admiration for your achievement.

Azrael, with his wisdom, reminds you of the great potential you hold and the positive impact you can now make in the worlds. "Your journey to knowledge is a noble one. Remember, the pursuit of understanding is the highest of callings."  

Together, these powerful beings stand with you. As you step into this new chapter, their confidence in you acts as a beacon. You're reminded that every achievement is not walked alone but with the support of those who believe in your potential.

[maidenofsophia]

Faith Update

I'm going through something of a religious identity crisis at the moment and trying to decide exactly what I am. I still adore Filianism and align myself with most of the beliefs and teachings and concepts on Déa. But I don't know if I feel truly comfortable calling myself a Filianist anymore.

I'm not even completely sure I'm a Déanist.

Most of this has been due to my growing connection with the Horned God who has been coming to me a lot lately. I've been going through a lot of difficult times lately and while Sophia has been there for me and protected me, it's the Horned One - sometimes as Pan, sometimes as Cernonnus - who has come to give me comfort. It's strange because I was never drawn to him all that much in my Wiccan days but have found myself connecting with him more over the years.

There's always been this debate on whether someone can be a Dèanist or a Filianist if they believe in male gods alongside Dèa / The Goddess. I had this same dilemma back when I was a Gnostic and was determined to keep Jesus in my faith.

Reason I still consider myself Déanic is that my inclusion of the Horned God is not a Wiccan "God and Goddess" dualithic system. For me, Sophia is Déa. She is the Supreme, the Goddess. She is Mother, as Zoe She is Daughter and as Barbelo She is Déa Absolute. She has no equal or consort. The Horned God is not some Great Father, but he is a divine father figure to me. He's also a brother, a guide and just an all round positive masculine energy. Most of all, he's a friend. While I love and respect him, I wouldn't prostrate myself before him as I would my Lady and I don't feel he'd want me to (not that Sophia demands it either). I see the Horned God as one of many entities or aeons who were born of the Pleroma, the womb of Barbelo.

While I give the Horned One he/him pronouns most of the time. I'm currently reading James Mankey's book "The Horned God of the Witches" to try to get a better understanding of these different forms he or they can take and I'm looking forward to reading the chapter on Elen of the Ways. Does this mean any god or goddess with horns is part of the Horned God? I dunno. I guess it depends on their attributes, Cernonnus and Pan and Herne, as well as Lucifer in his horned depictions, all bring this similar energy. This feeling of freedom and harmony and mystery and playfulness but also guidance born from being in tune with life and nature. Despite wearing horns like "crowns", they're not judgemental or controlling or wrathful like angry kings. They don't rule beside or above Déa, but in Her name. More like a steward than a ruler.

I also never connected much to the Horned God before being an demisexual lesbian. There was always so much of a focus on the Horned One as a lustful deity that it put me off. But letting him come to me in meditations has weirdly helped me feel comfortable understanding my sexuality in a way that never felt right discussing with Sophia. Sophia connects more with that side of me, which does not feel almost any sexual desires, whereas The Horned One does in those rare moments where I do experience something or even just a romantic fixation. It's like the Horned One helps me manage my more base and material desires while Sophia is more about my spiritual and esoteric growth.

Dunno if any of this is making sense but as I'm no longer a Gnostic, I don't believe we need to forsake the material world entirely to become one with Spirit. There is a harmony to be found and I think with Sophia as my (supreme) Goddess and the Horned One as my (lesser) Lord, I've found that balance, and I've been looking a lot more into various open Pagan practices to help reconnect with the world outside rather than just praying at my altar with my rosary. Which also feels more like Paganism to me than Filianism.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Marina: Cool Girl

Designer's Reflection: Cool Girl

Obtained: Vol. 2 Ch. 3 workshop

Rarity: SR

Attribute: Blue/Cool

Awakened Suit: Camo Girl

Story - transcripts from Designer's Reflection

Chapter 1 - Academy First Experience

Chapter 2 - Club War

Chapter 3 - Stranger's Promise

Story - summarized

While Aeon searches the archives at Cicia School of Design, Marina skates around campus looking for something to do. She's only been homeschooled by her brother, so she's never been to a "real school."

She spies on one of the classes through the window. There are boring students that take lots of notes, like Aeon would, and there are students in the back that sleep or play games. Marina is interested in them. How often does this happen in college?

The bell rings, and all the students pile out of the classroom. Today happens to be a club fair, and everyone is eager to join a club. One of them has a skateboard rink. Marina is excited to join, showing off her skateboarding skills, surpassing the other students.

But the club members all make excuses for why she can't join: she's too young, she's not a student, etc. Upset, Marina storms off.

A girl named Cersei stops her and asks Marina to join her club. It's the Research of Magical Humans Club, and they reside in the Dorm of the Strange. All of them are weirdos that have been ignored by the others, and they hang out and share their hobbies and fascinations. Despite Marina not being a student, they allow her to join.

Marina spends the rest of the day with them, until Aeon calls for her to go home. She's too excited to see her new friends again, and she asks Aeon if she can come to study at Cicia School of Design.

But once he lists off the classes she needs to take to pass the entry exam, she loses interest in going to college.

Connections

-The fifth member of the club is Ashley. At the start of Vol. 2, she breaks free from one of the Mirrors on the Ark. She wanders into Cicia, and she meets the Dorm of the Strange group, who welcome her wholeheartedly.

-Cersei may have pretended to see Marina's fate in joining the club, but she truly is a witch. We help her get her family's wand in Magic Hare Wand, and we travel through time to meet one of the most powerful witches in Cersei's family in the gothic wedding event: Celina.

Fun Facts

-While it's not stated directly, it seems the Dorm of the Strange accepts trans and intersex students, like Princess and Prince. Ninir's standard of beauty seems so strict, superficial, and binary, that it makes sense for general society to reject anyone who doesn't conform.

-Marina's Profile in the Index confirms that she is old in terms of age, but forever a kid, in the "About Nikki" section. It's why she doesn't get offended at being called an "elementary kid," but she doesn't like condescension.

[santmat]

Sant Tulsi Sahib’s Spiritual Master Was Sant Dariya Sahib of Bihar, by James Bean

As has been mentioned by scholars contributing to that great book, The Sants, Studies in a Devotional Tradition of India, published in 1987 by Motilal Banarsidass, Radhasoami Reality by Mark Juergensmeyer, and, Tulsi Sahib - Saint of Hathras, Tulsi Sahib's teachings and those of Radhasoami are most compatible with the earlier Dharamdasis (the Sant Dharam Das line of Satgurus), a branch of the Kabir Panth, a guru lineage that also used the Five Names and held the Anurag Sagar to be a central sacred text.

Both Dariya Sahib and Tulsi Sahib had a beef with the Dharamdasis over spiritual practice, believing that they and the other earlier Sant Panths and Sikhs had gone off course no longer fully imparting the complete teachings of Kabir, Dharam Das and the other Sants. With the old format initiation was divided into two initiations: the first into the names, contemplation upon the form of the satguru, and inner Light. After satsangis reported being established in the Light, they then could move on to the second initiation into the Sound Current. I've confirmed this myself from my discussions with people in the Dharam Das Kabir group and other Panthis. Most people in those Panths never get to the second initiation into Surat Shabd Yoga. This was crossing a red line for Dariya Sahib's guru, Darya, and Tulsi Sahib. Too many chauka (chowka) coconut rituals, not enough Shabd Yoga. See page 85 of the book, Param Sant Tulsi Sahib, the chapter titled, Sant Mat and its Secrets, Dialogue Between Tulsi Sahib and Phool Das of the Kabir Sect.

The Dariya Sahib sangat was a schism branching off of the Dharamdais. Dariya Sahib is even portrayed by his followers as another reincarnation of Kabir come to reboot Sant Mat during this part of Kali Yuga. This rift with the Dharamdasis shouldn't be overlooked, as it's an important part of the history just prior to the time of Tulsi Sahib. 

“How long will this line of succession continue? Kindly relate it to us in your own words, asks Fakkar Das. ‘Listen mindfully, 0 Fakkar Das, I explain this to you, says Dariya:

"As long as the discipline of the Sound Current

is preserved unadulterated,

The line of succession will truly continue.

But when it is mixed with outer rituals

and display of external garbs,

My Sound Current will part company.

My Divine essence will depart,

And the souls will go into the mouth of Kal.

I shall then come to this world,

And shall proclaim the teaching

of the Sound Current again.

Proclaiming the teaching,

I shall found the line of succession [again].

And emancipating the souls,

I shall take them to my Abode….

For aeons I have been coming,

And imparting the teaching

of the true Sound Current."

And:

"That ladder is continued through me, says Dariya. Fakkar Das, Basti Das, and Guna Das are the ladders proceeding from me. Whomsoever they appoint as their successors would also be known as ladders. Thus will my line of succession continue." (Dariya Sahib - Saint of Bihar, by  Dr. Kashi Nath Upadhyaya) 

The True Identity of Sant Tulsi Sahib's Guru, Ratnagar Rao Revealed

If in the 1930's someone saying that Sant Mat was their spiritual path wrote that Hazur Baba Sawan Singh was one of the greatest masters of all time, on the same level as Kabir, Nanak, Dadu Dayal, Ravidas, Surdas, etc... you just know that person was extremely likely to have been a Radhasoami! Given that Dariya Sahib and Tulsi Sahib were contemporaries, the same observation can be made, the same logic can be applied to Tulsi Sahib's intriguing references to Dariya Sahib of Bihar, mentioning him in his various writings and incorporating some of the bhajans of Dariya Sahib into his writings. It's very plausible, very likely even that Tulsi Sahib was initiated by Dariya Sahib at a younger age, or that Tulsi Sahib was initiated later in life by one of the above-mentioned spiritual successors of Sant Dariya Sahib. No Cirque du Soleil mental gymnastics attempt at massaging the history or tea leaf reading is required. It's a rather straightforward observation based solely upon Tulsi Sahib's own words. Glad I'm not the only one to notice this: 

"Among the saints whom Tulsi Sahib himself singles out in Ghat Ramayan as Satgurus (true masters) are Bu-Ali Qalandar, Jalaluddin Rumi, Kabir Sahib, Dadu Dayal, Rai Das Ji, Dariya Sahib (who may have been Tulsi Sahib's own Guru), Guru Nanak, Surdas Ji, Nabha Das Ji, Mansur, Mirabai, Sarmad and Shams-e Tabrizi." (Tulsi Sahib - Saint of Hathras, new expanded 2017 edition, Puri, Sethi, along with a new editor by the name of Dr. T.R. Shangari, page xiii)

Even after centuries, evidence for the existence of past Sants and the sangats, panths or organizations associated with a past Sant remain: the samadh where a Sant was buried, sacred sites where some saint spent much time in meditation, and the ashram of the Sant. These are maintained by satsangs, panths, usually somebody, even in the poorest and smallest of satsangs in rural India. Another reason why Sants are not typically unknown missing link mystery gurus is that people claim succession from them! and lineages live on. As with the Kabir Panth, as with Radhasoami with all those guru lineage charts, the same multiple guru lineage situation applies to the sangat of Sant Dariya Sahib of Bihar. So his meditation spot, his nineteen books, his samadh (tomb) and various ashrams are preserved, are still with us now. 

Videos and Websites of the Sant Dariya Sahib Satsang:

https://youtu.be/CA5BmcqDtw4?t=169

https://youtu.be/qWNN5OJkkrk?si=PnoJ-KbcdHx15ssS

https://youtu.be/_g_gkM6_XkQ?t=410 

https://theholysound.com/sant-dariya-saheb-bihar/books.html

[walpu]

Angel lady ramble time!

Born from a runaway halovian in chaotic planet named Deyanira-VIII, it was a world with little civilization located in a far corner of a galaxy, with its locals wiped out many Amber Eras ago and now inhabited by outworlders, where whoever wishes to stay in that planet must learn the art of its world and be an adept survivalist.

The planet is beautiful—truly—natural resources are there, it possesses a unique ecosystem, where the remnants of the old yet advanced civilization lie, it is a livable world yet holds its own cruelty. Many have challenged the nature of Deyanira-VIII, pursuing countless hidden treasures and relics of immense value. Some are treasure hunters looking for artifacts to be taken home and exchanged for credits, while others are explorers determined to unveil what the planet hides. With its many corners that have never been seen, carrying many dangers and possibly taking many lives of many due to its savage nature, it is no surprise that so many are curious despite the danger.

Same goes to Zielle, born in a small peaceful civilization with no authority to control them, they go with “not prohibited does not equate to permitted” in their lives, of course it is not the best community to live in so the young girl would steel herself up while following her group wherever they would go. Though she was one of the children that were held close by the adults and wasn’t allowed to explore on her own, looking at her left and looking at her right, same goes to front and back she’d see the bodies of the adults blocking the view. To protect her and the other children from danger, yet the enchanting charm the world has to offer fascinates her to no end she has a rebellious streak for running away into the wilderness, yes she has the physical prowess but what can a little halovian do if said wilderness wants to devour her? She could only remember the adults told her to hide her wings and stick her halo onto her head like a headdress, just sing for the people that loves her voice, do what she loves and spread her melody.

A wild child if you may, would go missing during nighttime or when there’s a heavy rain. Was it dangerous? Yes. Was it worth it? She got nothing from it, but at least she knows what’s out there, and she could scavenge for more remains. A little bird who flew from her nest too early, her parents went into the wilderness and never came back, living amongst other children in the orphanage.

It was after some time that a lonely Nameless came to this planet and left their mark that Zielle started to go running outside once again, the pitter patters of the rain was all too familiar, an old friend in case she ascended to high to ground her back to the earth. The repeated habit of running away and attempts to launch herself into the sky blurred her memory, years of enduring the savages of Deyanira-VIII bred a tough cookie, going out of her way to join expeditions to find something worth to gain materials and exchange it for an affordable space transport, or better yet rebuild an abandoned spacecraft and make it hers.

If that Nameless taught her something during their limited encounters when they stayed in this planet as they saw her twinkling eyes at their vehicle, was that thousands of years ago in the vast empty space there was once a fleet of trains running on the star rail under the Aeon named Akivili. To connect distant worlds together from different star systems and even the most distant of galaxies, the Nameless told their stories of their adventures and battles and parties. To start a chapter of her life, turn the page, keep looking up at the sky, for they believed she can also walk on the path of the Trailblaze.

And under the light drizzle, the Nameless finally bid their goodbye to Deyanira-VIII and walk amongst the stars. From that day, the young woman walks deeper into the dangers of the planet, and her next destination is the stars.

- 🪽

I love the nameless so much dear lord

She is so free spirite,

I bet in-game she would be a Robin's narrative parallel at least in some way: caged bird and a free spirit 🥹

[nofuturecomic]

Chapter 15 behind the scenes!!

As usual there will be spoilers for chapter 15 of No Future.

I kind of can't believe I managed to do 48 chapters of this (so far) that's almost 2300 pages x.x with an average of 4 - 5 panels a page, do you know how many times I have had to draw Andrew and company?? And I'm not even close to finished ._.

Anyway for this cover we got Lorelei, Lorelei is unfortunately a character that took a long time for me to be able to draw consistently x.x I'm really not sure why she gave me so much trouble but it was a problem for a while. Though I think I've got the hang of drawing them by now 40 chapters later (at least I hope)

Era explaining how gods can just casually erase themselves from photos while harassing Osiris.

I really need to go back and make Osiris's hair poofier in this scene, it was much more everywhere in the sketch but for whatever reason I toned it down in the finished version? I'm not sure why actually?? But I remember not really liking the end result of that panel and feeling like I could have done better after posting it. I was really feeling that 'erasing the image from existence' energy Osiris was feeling I guess.

Abaddon jump scaring Andrew again.

Andrew is truly a wordsmith.

This scene was a lot of fun to do, despite how tedious that balcony was to draw in every panel. At this point I was defiantly used to Era and Aeon's characters so they became far easier for me to work with both in concerns to writing and drawing. Working with them was very natural at this point so I think a lot of their scenes where they are together turn out better now than they did in earlier chapters.

I messed up on Lorelei's height trying to get the door frame in the panel so the visuals for the gag would work better. I tend to focus on one detail at a time instead of the whole picture x.x so I run into a lot of mistakes like this when going through pages. The consequences of being the only person working on a project I suppose.

"Andrew is smart" was a plot twist for readers just as much as it was for Era and Aeon.

Also this scene made a few readers think that Lorelei was into Osiris, she isn't, at least, not like that. She just got focused enough on what he wrote on the board to inquire about it, she's just like that. Unfortunately this does not apply very often for things that pop up in school so she some subjects she's in the below average version of the classes. She has learning disabilities, she mentions so later in the comic, but that doesn't make her incapable of learning, just things have to specifically interest her for her to want to learn about it.

This was kinda of a thing for me too, a lot of people I know think I'm smart, or must have done well in school because I just... remember the most random facts and can bring them up in a conversation, but then they are always really shocked to learn that actually, I did not do well in school and was often in the below average classes. There's a very specific stereotype of kids that are in those classes that is really unfair, and I generally wanted to give a more accurate example of some of the kids that do end up in classes like that.

I enjoy how completely unbothered Lorelei is with Era's comments and just works with them.

Era please.

Aeon please.

This chapter was fairly straight forward compared to other recent chapters, from beginning to end we remained in the same location despite the topics of conversation jumping from one things to another.

Sometimes comic chapters will jump around to all kinds of different scenes, and sometimes it'll just stick to one, both a great as long as your readers are still engaged I think. Just do whatever your story needs for you to tell it.

[shrineofprophecy]

@zorkaya / continued from here

The scent of Aha lingers on this young woman, making the Apostle smile as she watches her. Of course, the unpredictability of Masked Fools was a true statement but it didn't need to sound so threatening. Zarina's smile that lingers is one that speaks of her laid-back approach to this instance, to this meeting. She enjoys the sight of Sparkle, her manner of speech and her child-like indulgences. Will she use that little pistol of hers to shoot her? It'd be an adorable moment to witness, she'd approve of that approach to this meeting.

"I think you're capable of more than even you think, sunshine," the ice queen chuckles softly, not moving an inch despite the threats thrown her way. Opal was scarier when they tried to break her neck only to realize all the wounds have disappeared. Such sweet folk, all of them. But right now, the golden gaze is studying Sparkle with great interest. Curiosity in how a fool lives is obvious to another's eye, but the issue lies in that distant yet soft smile. It's elegant yet sharp, a showcase of a snow leopard waiting to jump on its prey from within the fluffy snowy plains. "I've witnessed countless stories, created rulers and organized jesters. I've been the witch and the saint. I know how far you can go, and I'm more curious how far you're willing to push yourself." She created an empire, led humanity to pick itself up after full annihilation once the Aeon of Origin has sacrificed herself to ascend into a higher state of being. She sacrificed her dream of becoming a human to save them, to give humanity another chance against Honkai. Sokolova is curious to see how this humanity, this young lady, will proof her power and her resilience through trial and error. Her heart is a firework and it's going to bloom in such gorgeous colors up in the sky. But how to make her shine even brighter? "Your are the follower of Elation, so don't threaten me. Instead, invite me to play with you. I've been bored enough of Preservation followers' business meetings."

The Masked Fool always kept her eyes open to her surroundings and the people that occupied them. It was natural for an actor of a thousand faces to observe different habits and personalities to apply them to her own art. Whether it was to improve her own acting skills or to create illusions that could easily be confused with reality.

This time, her eyes had fallen onto an interesting woman. If her intuition was right, she found herself in front of a powerful being who would no doubt entertain her. Playing with side characters was only fun for a short while after all.

Twirling the gun with her index finger, Sparkle circled Zarina like a predator would a prey. However, she was fully aware that she wasn't the one on top of the food chain. The woman was too confident and obviously not bluffing in fear of being shot, like countless of people have tried in the past. It was cute really. To find a moment of confidence when their fate had already been sealed.

"That's a low bar to clear." Sparkle chuckled as she halted her steps, lowering her gun because she had found more interest in what the other had to say. Not many would dare to play with her lest they were a Fool themselves. Even then there were cowardly people who didn't dare to test their limits. "They don't make the most interesting company but if you know how to play your cards, they're fine to fill up your spare time."

"But since you know me so well, I hope you don't believe I put limitations on myself. After all, there are none." Sparkle stepped closer and kept her eyes on the other, a smile on her face. "It wouldn't be fun to give people a grand finale in the first chapter. It has to slowly build up, keep people questioning and before they know it... Boom! A sudden plot twist that will make them second guess all they had learned up until that point. Their dear, favorite characters reaching a fate they never saw coming... Truly a spectacle to behold."

[straycatboogie]

2023/12/01 English

BGM: Original Love - MILLION SECRETS OF JAZZ (U. F. O. Remix)

Today I worked late. This morning I went to the library to borrow R. D. Laing's autobiography "Wisdom, Madness And Folly." And at AEON, I read the first chapter of it. It gave me some pieces of idea. I can remember - once, probably when I was in my 20s, I had read that Laing's "Do You Love Me?" by the influence of a Japanese popular manga artist (and also a popular pop star) Kyoko Okazaki, and also a legendary anime "Neon Genesis Evangelion." I will buy it tomorrow.

That Laing's book reminded me of my hard, tough childhood. I had to face a certain, huge difficulty to understand the outer world, and other people including my parents. Therefore I couldn't accept this self as a normal one. In other words, I couldn't think/accept myself as a beloved one. And that negative emotion is still alive in me.

Once, when I went to my high school, I found that a box of sweet in the drawer of my desk at there. A love letter was added by it. "I love you." it said so. I wrote my honest feeling to it in return, and added a gift to the person - although the anonymous person didn't show its figure at last. After that event, I found out that I had been "cheated" by someone else, and thought that I should give up any possibility of being loved by anyone anymore.

As a possibility - now I can imagine this. There could be someone who had truly loved me, or at least attracted by me. And so she (or he) gave me that present. But, as a result, something went wrong. Anyway, now I can recall that event as a funny, interesting one. But at that time, it was a little bit "hurting" event for me.

After that the "love letter" incident, I decided not to expect to be loved, and started diving into the sea of books and music with maniac attitude. Indeed, it must be too "ultimate" attitude, but at that period all I could do was that. I still feel a certain slight pain in my mind when I try to recall that event - but, anyway life must go on.

[zionsredemptionradionetwork]

Justification For The Work For The Dead, Chapter 23 of Eternal Lives

Podcast: https://www.blogtalkradio.com/fundamentallymormon/2023/05/07/justification-for-the-work-for-the-dead-chapter-23-of-eternal-lives

YouTube: https://youtu.be/7ddH2LOc0EM

(I uploaded this video 4 times. I turned it every way I could and even inverted it… but it only loaded upside down for some reason.)

The quotes used in this essay are taken from the Pistis Sophia [edited by Carl Schmidt and translated by Violet Macdermot, published by E. J. Brill, the Netherlands, 1978] otherwise known as the Askew Codex. The following narrative is portrayed as to why Jesus turned the keys of missionary work among the dead, and why he had the gospel preached to those in the spirit world. The answers provided suggest a parallel for all types of work performed for the dead. The justification of Jesus’ work for the dead seems sufficient to also explain the necessity for temple work for the dead (as practiced by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) with regard to the concept of eternal lives as outlined in this book.

The ideas contained in the Pistis Sophia suggest that proxy work for the dead is of absolute necessity as Jesus said he, “caused the path of their course to be accelerated, so that they might be purified quickly, and they might go upwards quickly. And I lessened their cycles, and I made their path easier, and it was greatly accelerated...” also, “...before their power diminished within them, and they declined and they weakened or they became

powerless... And their light, which was in their place, ceased. And their kingdom dissolved.”

Editorial note: ( ) Parentheses indicate material included by the original editor of the Pistis Sophia. [ ] Square brackets indicate material added by the editor of this book. After Jesus recounts his ministry in the spirit world to his apostles and to Mary Magdalene, the following dialogue is reported on pages 65-79.

It happened when Jesus finished saying these words, Philip sat writing every word as Jesus said them... Philip... spoke to Jesus: “My Lord, for the sake of what mystery hast thou turned the bondage...?” Jesus answered... “I have turned their path for the salvation of all souls. Truly, truly I say to you: unless I had turned their paths a multitude of souls would have been destroyed... and there would have been delay in the completion of the number of perfect souls, which will be accounted among the inheritance of the height, through the mysteries, and will be in the Treasury of Light...”

Maria [Mary Magdalene according to the translators] ... said to Jesus: “My Lord, in what manner would the souls be delayed outside or in what form will they be quickly purified?” ... Jesus answered and said to Maria: “Excellent, Maria. Thou dost ask well with an excellent question... Now indeed I will not conceal anything from you from this hour, but I will reveal everything to you with certainty and openly. Hear now, Maria, and give ear, all you disciples. Before I preached to all the archons of the aeons, and all the archons of the heimarmene and the sphere [spirits in the spirit world], they were all bound with bonds, in their spheres and their seals, according to the manner in which Jeu [a form of Jehovah], the overseer of the Light, had bound them from the beginning. And each one of them was continuing in his rank and each one was proceeding according to his course, according to the manner in which Jeu, the overseer of light, had settled it.”

[Next there is a somewhat lengthy dialogue about Melchizedek who is called “the purifier of the light” who removed the bonds by which those spirits were bound, and he “made their cycles turn quickly and he (Melchizedek) took away their power which was in them... and the tears of their eyes...” Incidentally, in the Nag Hammadi Library in the book of Melchizedek pages 439-442, Jesus equates himself with Melchizedek by saying, “I am Melchizedek...” Also see Paul’s teachings about the relationship between Mechizedek and Jesus Christ in Heb 7:1, 6-7, 15-17, and 24-25. Following this dialogue regarding Melchizedek’s work among the spirits in the spirit world, Jesus continues with his narrative as follows:]

“And they cast them into this world of mankind, and they became souls in that place, according to what I have just told you. These things were now fully completed before their power diminished within them, and they declined and they weakened or they became powerless. It happened when they became weak, their power began to cease within them, and they became weak in their power. And their light, which was in their place, ceased. And their kingdom dissolved. Melchizedek... caused them quickly to abandon their cycles... and he took their light to the Treasury of the Light. And the matter of their dregs [karma or the law of cause and effect?] was surrounded and swallowed... They now swallowed their matter, that they might not become powerless and weak, that their power might not cease within them and their rulership (kingdom) dissolve. And they swallowed them so that they should not dissolve, but that they should be retarded, and should spend a great time until the completion of the number of perfect souls which would be in the Treasury of the Light... It happened now when I came to go forth for the service for the sake of which I was appointed, through the command of the First Mystery...I turned their whole path and their whole course, and I caused the path of their course to be accelerated, so that they might be purified quickly, and they might go upwards quickly. And I lessened their cycles, and I made their path easier, and it was greatly accelerated, and they were confused in their path, and from this time they were not able to swallow the matter of the dregs of what is purified of their light. And further I lessened their times and their periods, so that the perfect number of souls which will receive mysteries and which will be in the Treasury of Light should be completed quickly. And unless I had turned their course and unless I had lessened their periods, they would not have allowed any souls to come to the world, on account of the matter of their dregs which they swallowed, and they would have destroyed a multitude of souls On account of this now, I have said to you at this time: ‘I have lessened the times for the sake of my chosen ones, otherwise none of the souls could have been saved’. But I have lessened the times and the periods for the sake of the perfect number of the souls which will receive mysteries, which are the chosen ones. And had I not lessened their periods [the atonement and work for the dead?], none of the material souls would have been saved, but they would have been consumed in the fire which

is in the flesh...”

And finally from Book III, Chapter 129, on page 326 of the Pistis Sophia we read, “If they receive the mystery while they are still alive, when they come forth from the body they become beams of light and outpourings of light, and they penetrate every place until they go to the place of their inheritance. But if they are sinners, on the other hand, and they come forth from the body and have not repented, and you perform for them the mystery of the Ineffable, so that they should be returned from all the punishments and cast into a righteous body which will become good and inherit the Kingdom of the Light, or else that they should be brought to the last rank of the light: they are not able to penetrate the places because it is not they who perform the mystery.”

“Thus saith thy Lord, the Lord and thy God pleadeth the cause of his people; behold, I have taken out of thine hand the cup of trembling, the dregs of the cup of my fury; thou shalt no more drink it again.” (2 Nephi 8:22. Also see D&C 104:8-9)

Chapter 24: Man: Diversity Among Men and Spirits