#also to feed childe more bows hehe

[lameow-l]

GUESS WHAT….!

it’s really coooooooollllllll

and she does this thing on her 3rd attack… im dead

[chaozsilhouette]

A Revealing Performance

My rendition for the Shadow Play in @winterpower98's Swap Au.

It was supposed to be a simple thing, then it sort of spiraled into this whole deal. For the effects of the Shadow Lantern, I drew some inspiration from her Cursed Au as I never thought simply using her friends was cruel enough for the Monkey Tyrant.

It serves to show just how far Macaque has grown, but also to highlight just how monstrous he was.

_____________________________

Mei refrained from downing her bubble tea as she waited for the play to start. It had been a rough couple of weeks with Spider Queen and that creepy girl. And failing to find where Xiaotian had run off to after the misunderstanding. When Macaque sent her tickets to the local theatre, she was ashamed to think it was a trap.

Pigsy and Sandy were right. After everything that happened, she needed some serious me time. She had been too stressed.

Besides, everyone knew Macaque was a total theatre nerd. Few people knew that the star puppeteer was actually the Six-Eared Macaque himself. He would totally send her tickets from his stomping grounds as a way to unwind.

It was a shame that Tang couldn’t join them. Apparently, he finally managed to schedule a meeting with the Celestial Realm and was Taking the demon brothers to figure out a new way of sealing the Monkey Tyrant. It was also his chance to explain their little break-in during New Years. He encouraged her to have fun and if it was good, he’d join them for the next showing.

So here they were waiting for the performance to start. Although she wondered what the fake mayor was doing here. They hadn't seen him since he gave her the skeleton key. Still wasn't sure why he had it or why he gave it to her? Supposedly she was only supposed to have it for a day, but he never stopped by to pick it up.

_____________________________

Sun Wukong was a monkey of many talents, but even he had to admit Macaque was a far better storyteller and his mastery of shadows was sheer perfection. But that just made this plan all the more perfect. What better way to teach his wayward beloved’s little flower a lesson than through a trusted medium.

Obtaining a spot in the local theatre was child’s play, a little magic and they were all but begging him to take center stage. Apparently, they had been scrambling to find a new performer after their star puppeteer had to leave for a family emergency (three guesses as to who that was). And with a little glamor, a set of tickets was left at the little flower's doorstep. As far as she knew, Macaque was proud of her progress and believed she had deserved a reward for all her hard work. She was so desperate for something to go right she hardly questioned how her mentor, who was in parts unknown, managed to secure tickets for a new performer.

In his personal dressing room, Wukong delicately touched up his human disguise. Even if he was going to be hidden in his hanfu and cloak, it wouldn’t do to spoil the surprise. Applying his eye shadow with artful flair, the Monkey King took time to appreciate just how handsome he truly was no matter what form he took. Honestly, who would have thought such perfection existed?

A pulse of dark magic drew his attention to his latest partner in crime.

The Shadow Lantern gently floated before him. Its dark magic practically purring at the thought of being used. Wukong could almost laugh at his beloved’s foolishness. He was there when his darling created the lantern, when he infused his own shadows into its very foundation. Did he honestly think such a masterpiece would tolerate being left to collect dust in a cave?

Normally a magical artifact would never consider turning on its master, but after centuries of abandonment, all Wukong had to do was whisper his intentions to return Macaque to his former self to secure its loyalty. The second he first made contact, he could sense a twisted hunger writhing within and with each performance granting it the chance to feed on the life essence of the viewers…. hehe, he almost couldn’t contain himself.

Looking up at the clock, he saw it was just about time for his next performance. His clones had reported the girl’s presence along with the pig and the water demon. Strangely the one with glasses and the little matchstick was absent. No matter, he could make do with two hostages just fine.

After all, the show must go on.

_____________________________

The overhead lights dimmed, signaling the start of the play. Smoke slowly poured from beneath the floorboards, generating an air of mystery. In a flash of golden light, a tall man wearing a beautiful cloak manifested on center stage. The crowd silenced themselves at the display.

“Welcome viewers to a performance you shall never forget!” From the folds of his sleeves, an exquisite lantern floated in front of him. A mesmerizing yet familiar purple glow emanating from the center.

“Our tale tonight is one of love, companionship, and how even the strongest of bonds can be severed through the trickery of the wicked.”

In the background, the shadows twisted and grew in the lantern’s light. Carefully they formed a beautiful scene of a mountain covered in flowers and trees. Attention was gradually guided to the top, where a round stone basked in the sun.

“It all began with the birth of a King.”

The round stone broke, revealing a figure that resembled a monkey. But no, this was a monkey demon, a monkie if you would. The King journeyed down the mountain until he found a tribe of normal monkeys. The group frolicked for a while as the King established himself as the undisputed ruler of the tribe.

A large figure with an ax appeared. The monster brought down his ax upon a small collection of monkeys only to be stopped at the last second by the King. The King used his superior strength to steal the demon’s ax and used it to decapitate the intruder in a single stroke. The monkeys jumped around the King and praised his strength, but the King did not appear satisfied.

“The young King was born with great power and strength, but he sought out more to protect his people.”

The King crafted a raft and set out on a dangerous sea. The King was shown to face off against mountain gods, human warriors, and demonic sorcerers always to reign victorious but never satisfied.

“In his travels, he learned much and faced many enemies, in time his efforts were handsomely rewarded.”

The King climbed a fleet of stairs carved into a mountain to reach a humble monastery. At the top, a stern human stood, but behind him was another monkie. This one however possessed six ears.

“His quest for power led him to a Warrior of potential equaling his own. At first, neither was sure how to react to their mirror, but they quickly forged a comradery that took them far.”

The two monkies trained together, mastering new powers as they sparred.

“Their time together increased their power exponentially and as they grew stronger their feelings blossomed into something beautiful.”

The two were on a cliff overlooking the stars, slowly leaning closer to one another. Eventually, the two faced their opposite and leaned in close.

“Their fates had become intertwined. Their power was unmatched. It was then the King realized what he had been searching for all this time.”

The two shadows merged together in a complex dance until they separated into two beings once again, but not as they began. The two monkeys were now garbed in elaborate, yet practical armor and silks. The King wielded a staff and the Warrior took up a spear.

“Slowly their strength grew to where nothing could challenge them, whether in the Celestial Realm or on Earth.”

The King and Warrior were shown battling heavenly armies and powerful demons with confident smirks. Each battle resoundingly won through their combination of speed, strength, and cunning.

“But it was not enough. The King wished to ensure that he and the Warrior would be able to fight together forever and sought the power and respect needed to secure their future.”

The King took to the Heavens, where he stood before an Emperor in the most extravagant outfit, surrounded by massive guards in magical armor. The Emperor was clearly afraid as the King effortlessly toppled one guard after another, slowly approaching the throne at a steady pace.

“The King’s noble actions were viewed negatively by those who feared his ever-growing power. Eventually, a prison was crafted that could restrain the King, one that not even his beloved Warrior could destroy.”

Just before the King’s latest attack could reach the Emperor, chains wrapped around his limbs and dragged him down to Earth. With a quick flex, the chains shattered, but the King was doomed as a mountain landed on him with a seal placed at the top. The Warrior tried to pry off the seal or find some way to weaken the mountain, his acts growing more desperate with time, yet nothing worked.

“Cruelly, the King was forced to wait until he could be freed, forced to watch his precious Warrior defend their Kingdom on his own.”

With a heavy expression, the Warrior abandoned his efforts to return to the original mountain as dozens of terrifying figures surrounded the monkey inhabitants.

“Centuries passed and their love still burned strong. Soon their patience was rewarded, the King was freed but he was soon trapped in a new prison.”

A monk approached the mountain and removed the seal. The King swiftly destroyed the mountain. The monk humbly bowed to the King and offered fresh clothing and a fillet. The King garbed himself in the gifts only to collapse in agony when the monk prayed.

“Enraged the King played along until the time was right. The King and the Warrior reunited in secret and crafted a plan that would allow them to take their revenge on those that dared to separate them.”

The two monkies hugged and nuzzled each other in appreciation. A quick conversation later, the Warrior changed to resemble the King and joined the monk as the King headed into unknown lands.

“Decades later the King was ready to retrieve his love, confident in his regained strength. But when he arrived the Warrior had changed. It was as if the warrior had lost a crucial part of himself. The Warrior tried to dissuade the King from killing the monk and his companions. He even tried to convince him to give up his rage at the Celestial Realm, believing the war that would ensue wasn't worth it.”

The disguised Warrior was traveling with four colorful characters. The King dropped from the sky in front of the group, a massive crater forming around him. The Warrior regained his true form, but instead of returning to his rightful place, he blocked the King’s view of the monk.

“The King could not believe his ears. This could not be his Warrior. His love always understood his goals and knew why heaven had to pay. The King knew this change was the monk’s fault. The King moved to silence the deceiver in one quick strike only to find it blocked by the Warrior.”

The King and Warrior exchanged blows that tore mountains asunder, split the heavens, and burned down forests. The other demons following the monk tried to aid the warrior, but nothing they did seemed to slow down the King, if anything their attacks only served to further enrage him.

“The two clashed until the Warrior fled with the jailers. Time and time again they clashed, but never could the King reach the Warrior he held in his heart.”

The group fled from the battle, but time and time again the King tracked them down. The locations may have changed, but the carnage after each battle remained as world-shattering as the first. In the end, the Group managed to truly escape, and the Warrior vanished into the shadows he wielded, leaving the King alone with nothing but his memories.

“Even now the King yearns for the companionship of his beloved Warrior, knowing that at his core the Warrior craves the same.”

With the final line sending shivers down the spines of the viewers, the puppeteer vanished in a flash of light.

_____________________________

As Mei waited for her family to walk out, she couldn’t help but think about the play. It almost sounded like they were telling the tale of the Monkey King. But that was ridiculous. No one knew the Monkey King’s origins aside from minor details from the Journey to the West. Besides the narrator seemed to view the Monkey Tryant as a hero and victim. Clearly, that guy needed a reality check.

“Hello, young one.” Nearly choking on the remainder of her tea, Mei turned to see the puppeteer standing behind her with a knowing smile.

His cloak shrouding the top of his face in shadow. For a second, Mei envisioned her father Macaque. He would adore that look. Actually, didn’t she see a similar outfit in his closet on Flower Fruit Mountain? Doesn’t he wear that outfit when he’s hosting a shadow play?

Wait. How did he sneak up on her like that? Was she that out of it?

How long has she been quiet? Crap! Say something! “Oh. Ah-hello. C-can I help you with something?”

“I was about to ask the same. You do know the theatre is going to close soon right?”

“What?” Mei grabbed her phone. The digital clock flashed that it was past nine. That couldn’t be right. That meant she had been waiting for nearly an hour. But where were the others? Surely, they wouldn’t have left without telling her. Were they in trouble?

“Is everything alright?”

“Ah- yeah, everything’s fine.” It’s cool. It’s cool. She could handle this. She just needed to stay calm. “No need to worry about me. I just ah-I have a few questions about your play.”

“Yes.”

“How did you could up with the concept? I mean, no offense, but your premise could be taken the wrong way.” Maybe it was the panic over where her family had disappeared to, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being sized up.

“Hm. Have you ever heard the expression ‘History is written by the winners’?”

“Yes. It’s pretty common.” Like one of the most used sayings in the world.

“The tale was designed to show that love is one of the most cherished feelings of all and that in order to protect it, one must be willing to do anything to keep their loved ones safe. The King only wished to keep his beloved by his side, but the Warrior was misled and forced to battle against his love. That story may belong to only two, but similar tales can be experienced in anyone’s life. Tell me, can you think of a time you fought with those you cared about due to a misunderstanding?”

Without even considering it, horrible memories resurfaced. Mei arguing with MK as she tried to stop him from leaving with the newly released Monkey King. Mei forced to battle Red Son as his mind was slowly consumed by the True Fire of Samadhi. Tang lying to them about his true identity. Macaque leaving when they needed him most without saying why.

“I see you can.” The puppeteer gently guided her back into the main hall, where she took a seat on an empty bench.

“It’s nothing. I just-” She honestly didn’t know why she was pouring out her heart to stranger. Maybe she really was that exhausted. “-there’s so much going on and I’m supposed to be strong no matter what. But sometimes it hurts, just thinking about all my mistakes. Sometimes I wonder if I truly am strong. What if bringing me into this was a mistake?”

“What if it was?” That voice!

Mei turned to see Macaque garbed in a strange outfit, one that honestly reminded her of the Monkey King’s. She was confused. She had never seen him wear anything like that, he looked like the Monkey King’s twisted shadow.

And that expression! Her father Macaque had never made that face before. It looked as though he was reveling in her suffering.

“What’s the matter, little jade? Don’t worry, I won’t leave you alone.” He extended a hand slowly with the intent to cradle her face. A normal gesture he would use to comfort her, but her every instinct was screaming at her to get away.

Mei jumped to her feet and pulled out her spear, aiming it right between the imposter’s eyes. “Enough games!”

Macaque stared at the spear for a second, his fiendish expression only growing more vicious. He threw his head back with a full-bodied laugh, showing how little he thought of her threat. “Ha. Ha. Ha.”

In a flash of light, the Monkey Tyrant was standing before her, still wearing his puppeteer disguise. “Wow. About time. For a while, I was wondering if you’d ever figure out it was me.” His red and gold eyes carefully roved over her body, taking in every shake and fearful twitch. “Put down the spear, kid. We both know you’re not nearly good enough to scratch me with such a pitiful copy of the Dragon Blade.”

That may have been true, but she’d sooner make out with DBP in full view of Queen Iron Fan than leave herself completely open before this tyrant. “So the play was from your perspective. I always figured you were delusional, but this is a new low. Where is my family?” She all but growled, unknowingly her canines had slightly elongated in response to her rage.

“They never left. I’m surprised you didn’t recognize this.” The Monkey King took out the lantern, once more bathing the room in that familiar glow.

“What’s the big deal about a lantern?”

The stone monkie found her ignorance all the more entertaining. To think he hadn’t warned her of his own past.

“The big deal is that my dear warrior crafted this lantern long ago. It was his finest work and like everything he made it has multiple uses.” With a simple hand gesture, the silhouettes of Pigsy and Sandy appeared on the walls. “The Shadow Lantern can do more than enhance one’s skills in shadow magic, it can trap the bodies and souls of its targets. So long as the targets are trapped, the lantern can steal the shadows of its victims so its master can use them as a personal army until there is nothing left.”

“You expect me to believe Macaque made something so disgusting?” Even as Mei said it, she couldn’t help but recognize how similar the lantern’s magic was to her teacher’s. It was cool and soothing, but on the edge, there was an unmistakable edge of malice. “Even if he did, I doubt he made it without you whispering in his ears.”

“Oh child, you have no idea how many secrets he keeps from you. Let me share one with you.” The lantern grew brighter, and the silhouettes of her family members gained more substance as they peeled away from the walls.

Mei adjusted herself so all opponents were in her sight, but nothing could stop the sweat collecting on her forehead.

She sensed something powerful appear behind her. Jumping out of the way as a spear nearly severed her arm. She faced her new opponent. Only to almost drop her weapon.

Standing before her was another copy of Macaque only this one was even more disturbing. Its eyes burned with purple light, the shadows loving curled around it, but worst of all was the sneer filled with razor-tipped teeth.

“Did you honestly think my love was always so nice?”

[dust-broken-berry]

Second post for Part 8, if you didn't see first then go check that out.

“It’ll b-be ok”

    Fresh said as he began to cry and pull PJ closer

“AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHRRGGG! IT HURTS!”

    Undyne ran into the room, she got a bed and tried to put PJ on it-

“FRESH DON’T LET ME GO PLEASE!”

    PJ refused to let go of fresh. So they both had to wheeled out on a gurney. Eventually PJ passed out from all the pain and screaming. Everyone was in PJ’s hospital room, it was quiet for a while. Then Blue said-

“So...I need at least one of you to go tell Error and Ink about this.”

    Nobody volunteered or said anything. Killer sighed and said-

“Look I don’t blame the kid for what his parents do… But I don’t think I would do so well going there.”

“Ya...I don’t think I would do well going back there either...sorry”

    Outer said, making Blue groan as it just went quiet again.

    Nightmare grumbled but said-

“I’ll go, I don’t want to but I guess they deserve to know.”

“Thank you Nightmare and Horror you go with him.”

    Horror raised an eyebrow after hearing Blue tell him he had to go. He asked-

“Me? Why not Fresh?”

“Horor if PJ wakes up and sees him gone, he’ll freak out and right now that could be dangerous…”

    Horror thought, and as much as he didn’t want to go he knew that Blue was right. He grumbled.

“Ok fine…”

    Nightmare looked at Horror

“Let’s go...be ready this may not be very...pleasant.”

“Ok”

    Horror said, as him and Nightmare left the hospital and made their way to the ‘good guys’ base. They stood in front of the door, Nightmare said-

“I’ma knock, be ready but don’t look anymore threatening.”

“...Ok”

    Nightmare knocked on the door and Dream answered, he sighed-

“Well shit”

“GAH BROTHER!”   

    Dream drew his bow and aimed at Nightmare

“Relax…”

    Nightmare aimed Dream’s bow down and away from him.

“We need to tell Error and Ink something.”

“W-What do you want to tell them!?”

“Nothing you need to hear”

“Why?”

“Because this information is...at least for now, is currently only for them, and them alone…. But you may understand the pain they will go through.”

    Dream began to sweat nervously

“Why d-do you care, either of you? Why do you care? Why would you come and tell them?

“Frankly I don’t care about them, nore does Horror I assume...but. It’s not the boys fault that they’re his parents, is it?”

    Dream had a sad look

“You...don’t mean…”

“I do. Now go get Error and Ink.”

    Dream was hesitant but went to go get them. They both walked to the door, Error being the first to ask-

“What do you two want?’

“It’s about your son-”

    Nightmare couldn’t even finish his sentence, Error and Ink had already pointed their weapons at him and Horror. Ink screamed-

“WHAT DID YOU DO TO MY SON!?”

“We didn’t do anything, but your son is in the hospital.”

“WHY!?”

    Again Ink yelled, this time Horror answering-

“It got to him, so you better put the weapons down and come with us.”

    Error and Ink didn’t move, they just stood there. Horror continued-

“Or don’t, we did what we were told to. Nightmare let’s go.”

Before Nightmare could say anything, he was being dragged away by Horror. Error and Ink stood there for a second and then they started to hesitantly follow Nightmare, and Horror.  Nightmare was surprised that worked, so he asked-

“How did you know that would work?”

“...”

    Nightmare didn’t know why Horror stayed quiet, so he just said-

“Well ok then, if you’re not gonna tell me then fine. But can you at least let me go?”

“Oh ya sorry?

    Horror let go of Nightmare. Nightmare said again-

“You handled that well though. What happened to you?”

“Hehe...I don’t really, but if you of all monsters think I’m not being an asshole then I must be doing something right.”

“Haha who said anything about you not being an asshole?”

    They laughed as they all made it to the hospital. They were outside PJ’s room when Nightmare said-

“I’ll go tell them you’re here, just wait-”

“It’s fine”

    Ink said as him and Error pushed past Nightmare into the room. The only ones that were in there were Blue and Fresh, Ink and Error looked and saw PJ sleeping. Blue then said-

“We...we need to talk.”

    He obviously meant for that to have more conviction than it did.

“What… J-Jammy…”

    Ink said worried as he went over to PJ’s bed. Fresh just sat there holding PJ’s hand, Ink didn’t like that but knew that it wasn’t the time to get upset. Error stood at the foot of the bed and looked over at Blue and was surprised to see Dust sleeping on the couch behind Blue.

“W-What the hell?”

    He said as Ink looked up to see Dust as well

“I told you…”

    Ink said, then looking back at Blue and Dust, and asking-

“Why is he sleeping?”

“Stress...he says it helps”

    Blue shook Dust awake, that surprised both Ink and Error. Blue realised and said-

“Don’t ask…”

“Erg...are they here?”

    Dust grumbled as he sat up, Blue rolled his eyes

“Ya, so get your ass up”

“Ok...probably a good idea”

    Dust groaned as he sat up, he saw that Error was standing at the foot of the bed.

“You should probably sit down...this may take a while.”

“I’m fine”

    Error said coldly, Dust wasn’t going to argue, and Error asked-

“How the hell did this happen?”

“PJ did something nobble...but stupid”

“Just tell me what he did!”

    Ink yelled, Blue just sighed

“He...stopped It from getting to my baby…”

    At first they didn’t realize it, but Blue was still in a hospital gown. Ink asked while yelling-

“Why would he do that!?”

“I...could have stopped him…”

    Fresh said quietly, Blue looked over at him and said-

“What?”

“I told him...not to…”

“Not to what?..”

    Dust asked, now sounding concerned.

“He planned this...I tried to stop him...I thought he listened…”

    Ink and Error were both surprised to hear that PJ had planned this. Ink even yelled-

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE WAS PLANNING THIS!? PLANNING WHAT!?”

“...He heard what you said about the baby...he had a plan...I kept trying to talk him out of it...but he just didn’t listen…”

“WHY DIDN’T YOU SAY ANYTHING!?”

“I don’t know, but you can yell at me, and scream at me...because I fucked up...and...AND I WISH I HADN’T!”

    PJ slowly gripped Fresh’s hand, and said-

“I-It’s...it’s not your fault...you know…”

“Huh?”   

    Fresh was surprised to see PJ awake, but he was happy to. Ink gave PJ a hug, happy that he was ok. Error was over his bedside asking if he was feeling better. Fresh held onto PJ’s hand, still just happy to see him awake. Blue looked over at Dust and said-

“We should give them a minute.

“You sure?”

“We have time”

“Ok, since we have the time. Can I ask how much we’re going to tell them?”

“Everything that happened with PJ, it isn’t a good idea to not tell them something and have them find out later.”

“Anything else?”

“It’ll depend on if they ask, and what they ask.”

    By the time Blue and Dust finished talking, everyone had backed away from PJ as he said-

“Ok...ok I’m fine ok?..let’s just talk with-”

    PJ stopped when he tried to sit up more, it hurt too much so he flinched and stopped. Fresh concerned said-

“PJ stop you shouldn’t be moving around like that.”

“Please don’t hurt by moving too much.”

    Ink said also worried , PJ just nodded his that he was fine saying-

“I’m fine, I’m fine, but Fresh do you mind helping me up?”

    Fresh nodded and carefully helped PJ sit up. PJ looked over at Blue nervously and asked-

“So Blue...where do we start, I don’t know what to tell them.”

“You should tell them everything, they deserve to know.”

“Ya what he said, I want to know what were you thinking? How did you come up with a plan to do whatever you did to yourself!?”

“Mom...I heard what you said…”

“About what-”

“How you knew that Blue was pregnant, and that you thought It might go after the baby.”

“...That was a hunch”

“We thought this might happen to, we were ready to fight but-”

“It said that if anyone attacked, then he would kill the baby.”

    PJ said cutting off Blue

“Exactly”

    Blue said, Ink was now more worried saying-

“Then why did you stop It? He could have killed you both.”

“I don’t think he planned on killing the baby, though if it came to it he...I guess he would have…”

“What do you mean part of his plan?”

    Blue asked confused, PJ continued-

“Well it was doing something that It can only do once.”

“You’re talking about the forced deal, right?”

    Dust asked, followed by PJ nodding and saying-

“He was planning on just giving the baby...this...and now that I think about it. It probably would have killed the baby just trying to do this.

    Blue and Dust looked a bit nervous after hearing that. Ink was just intrigued so he asked-

“But didn’t you say that wasn't It’s intention?”

“It wasn’t but it would’ve done it. Only because it would have made Blue’s magic stronger.”

“...”

    Blue didn’t know what to say so he stayed silent. Nightmare was standing in the doorway, and had a feeling he knew what PJ was going to say, so he asked-

“What do you mean Blue would have gotten stronger…”

    He said that less asking a question and more trying to confirm a suspicion. PJ obviously didn’t want to say it but he did anyway. 

“The pain of losing a child would have maxed out Blue’s magic… At least that’s what I think…”

“You’re probably right to assume that.”

    Error said backing up what PJ was saying. Blue just sighed and said-

“He is...this thing...it feeds off of pain…and so does this magic…”

“Ya...so even if the baby died...it would have made Blue very power full. Which probably would‘ve been fine with It.”

    Ink knew PJ was probably right, but he still hadn’t gotten an answer to his question, so he asked again-

“PJ...I know that everything you’re saying is probably true. But you still didn’t tell me why you did something…”

“I thought that I would be fine, because it wouldn’t be able to give me more magic...when I did have any in the first place.”

“That is a reasonable assumption, but then again we don’t know very much about It and what he can and can’t do.”

    Nightmare said, making PJ sigh and nod saying-

“Ya I should have realized that…”

“You had no ebay of knowing...and you did something noble…”

    Nightmare tried to think of words to say.

“I...respect that, and I’m sorry we were unable to do anything.”

“Thanks and it’s fine…”

    Ink and Error still looked reasonably nervous and had more questions.

“PJ why didn’t you pull away when It first let on to what he was about to do.”

“It was too late for that, he already had my hand...all I could do was stand there.”

“Tell them what you did next…”

    Blue said, PJ was scared, he didn’t want to think about it and he definitely didn’t want to say it. Ink somehow looked even more worried and asked-

“What did you do Jammy?”

“I...knew what was going to happen...well I thought I did…”

“Ok...g-go on…”

    Error said, PJ breathed and continued.

“He started forcing...this into me. I stood my ground cause I knew nothing would change. He noticed and wasn’t happy… He stood there forcing more, and more of whatever this is into me. I refused to give him what he wanted…”

“What more did he want from you?”

    Ink asked, almost not wanting to hear the answer.

“It wanted to see my pain...he knew that forcing this magic would be the most horrible, terrible...bone crushing kind of p-pain, and he wanted to see it. I didn’t want to give him more so I barely stood there with t-tears dripping down my face… But I knew that if I gave in then I would just be giving It more of what it wants.”

    PJ was shaking, Ink was crying, Error was trying his best not to, and even though Fresh already knew and saw what had happened, he couldn’t help but cry again. Ink again didn’t want to ask or hear the answer, but he still asked-

“H-How long d-did this happen for?...”

“S-Seven minutes”

    Ink hugged PJ as more tears dripped down his face. He felt horrible and told PJ-

“I’m so s-sorry Jammy, I wasn’t there to help you!”

“Even if you were you wouldn’t have been able to do anything.”

“We would have but we couldn’t risk It killing him.”

    Dust said, both Error and Ink were relieved that that didn’t happen. Error even saying-

“I-I’m happy you didn’t”

“Yes very…”

    Ink said, still holding on to PJ. Blue stood up.

“Well I’m going, we told you everything that happened and I don’t need to stay.”

    Blue said as he began to walk towards the door. But when he walked past Error-

“Gerk!-”

    Blue didn’t know what he had felt but he fell to the floor. Nightmare walked away from the doorway and over to Blue asking- 

“Are you ok?”

“I’m f-f-fine”

    Error emeditaly perked up and wrapped strings around Blue’s soul.

“Why did you talk like that!?”

“Uh...what?”

“You heard me, why did you talk like that!?”

“I don’t understand your question, but this isn’t a good time to be fighting.”

    Blue said as Nightmare cut hmi down, saying-

“Agreed”

    After that they left, leaving Error scared and nervous

“I think he’s slowly catching on”

“We can worry about that later, we need to be here now.”

“...Ok”

    Error said, still feeling uneasy. But he knew that being here for his son was his only priority right now.

[1-800-seo]

domestic dad!kook

hi everyone I thought I’d post my crap here so here is my domestic dad!kook Drabble list thing?

involves: pregnancy, established relationship/marriage, kissing, hickies?, general tomfoolery, nothing major, dad!jungkook,

————————————————————

* those damned blue lines

* you thought you wouldn’t see them so soon

* after all you had only been married eighteen months

* old relatives have been asking since day 1 when they’re gonna he seeing some lil jeons running around smh aunty karen

* you wondered how he would react

* he’d never shown any adverse reaction to children before but he was practically still a child himself

* the spiderman onesie you washed yesterday attests to that

* you decided to tell him at dinner

* he’d just had his first bite of tagliatelle when you accidentally blurted it out

* “IM PREGNANT”

* “what?” he replied snapping his head up with wide doe eyes

* “I-I found out this morning...I’m definitely pregnant. I know it’s soon, but we can make this work.”

* “What’re you on about? This is amazing baby, I finally get to be a dad!”

* “So you want this?”

* “Definitely, I’ve always imagined a family with you, it was just a matter of time. I’m so happy though baby, over the moon.”

* The smile on his face was beaming and the twinkle in his eye sparkled, he looked the epitome of happiness

* “I’m glad you want this then, it’ll be a wild ride but I’m glad it’s with you.”

* you reach out and squeeze his hand, as a fat tear of joy rolls down your cheek

* “I’m glad too, I know we’re young but it feels so right, so right with you.”

* he looks down, a tear dripping onto the table

* he wipes a few more and giggles

* “Tbh im surprised this didn’t happen earlier considering we go at it like rabbits”

* “KOOK” you cant help but laugh

* He is right lol

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—————————————————

One month 🍼

* “Where is my wife and my spawn~~~~~~”

* Jeongguk loudly sang as he burst thru the front door, arriving home from work

* “Wym spawn???“ You say as he pulls you into a bear hug and flops both of you on the couch

* “You know,, spawn, this baby, it’s my spawn hence why I’m calling it spawn like the superhero,, duh”

* he drops his hands down to your stomach and rest them their, flat palmed

* bowing his head so he is closer he says

* “I can’t wait to meet you Spawnie”

* Immediately you burst into a fit of laughter at the outrageous name

* “we CANNOT nickname our baby SPAWN, JEONGGUK”

* “Why not I think it’s well cool”

* he calmly replies proud smirk on his face

* “Is Spawn even a good guy?”

* “ummm”

* “wym ummm??”

* “well he’s kind of ambiguous in the comics”

* “OH GREAT WE HAVE A BABY NAMED SPAWN THAT IS OF AMBIGUOUS MORALITY”

* at that comment you both fell about laughing, your sides beginning to hurt at it all

* and that was how your unborn baby was nicknamed Spawn

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—————————————————

Three Months 🍼

* “I can’t push the trolley, I’m pregnant”

* you said matter of factly

* “oh you’re just being lazy,, I mean I’m not saying I won’t push the trolley, but you’re really pushing the boat out, baby”

* “hehehe my plan worked, you fool, you may have suspected me, however you still fell right into my trap muhahahaha”

* you dramatically laugh and put your hands on your hips like a comical villain

* so anyways you skrt skrt around the shop

* and right next to the book section is you know what

* the BABY SECTION

* so far you actually haven’t looked their yet because you don’t know the gender

* but curiosity brings you snooping in the aisles

* Jeongguk returns from the bakery section, carrying croissants and hair swept into a messy top knot

* you stare at the many many many racks of children’s clothes

* tiny baby booties

* hats that kook could only fit on his fist

* so so smol baby-grows

* “ngl I’m kinda overwhelmed”

* “how come?”

* he puts his hands round your waist and rests his head on your shoulders

* big soft comfy back hug

* “idk it’s a lot of responsibility, right? I can’t even begin to think about names never mind washing, clothing, feeding this tiny human being when it arrives”

* “baby, you have nothing to worry about, and I am positive you’re going to be the best most caring mother ever, and I have full trust in that.”

* He places a soft chaste kiss on the top of your head

* “thank you for always supporting me ggukie”

* “It’s my pleasure; we’re going to have the best baby ever, aren’t we Spawnie”

* You roll your eyes and kiss his cheek

—————————————————ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ

—————————————————

Four Months 🍼

* you were sat on the couch in your small apartment, small but sufficient

* Jungkook was painting the spare room and deconstructing old furniture you were selling on eBay

* You’re job was to arrange the business dealings and to look for new kid-appropriate furniture to reoccupy the spaces now blank

* It was fine by you

* saves you from getting up off the couch and getting all sweaty

* after a good few hours JK came out from the room, sweat on his brow and hungry

* hungry for something else tho 👀

* he stalks over to where you are sitting and kneels on the floor in front of your knees

* he rests his head on your lap, arms folded underneath it

* his eyes were dark, full of want

* “How’s it going baby? You tired?”

* “hmmm”

* he just stares back

* brows slightly furrowed

* soon enough he was peppering your face in warm kisses

* he flipped you over and sat you on his lap, hands resting on your waist

* his lips latched onto your neck and he sucked a flourish of purple and blue flowers under your jaw

* his lips were warm and supple on your skin

* it sent a shiver down your spine and goosebumps to your skin

* you found the hem of his black T-shirt and slid your hands under the fray

* you’re hands met the toned muscle of his stomach and the soft honey skin

* “looks like I can’t knock you up since someone already has, oh well, more fun for me”

* his hands fiddled with the fabric of your top

* you obliged and pulled it over your head

* you were met with his mouth hungrily crashing into yours as he searched for more and soon enough you were underneath him

—————————————————ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ

—————————————————

Six Months 🍼

* your belly was fairly noticeable by now and you couldn’t avoid the fact that you were pregnant

* people were starting to let you sit instead of them in public places

* you were getting more and more randos asking to touch your belly as well which wasn’t the greatest

* JK is always in protective dad mode™️ when this happens

* he’s ready to protect his babies

* one time when a sketchy looking old man asked to touch your belly JK immediately stood in between you and the guy

* he puffed out his chest and was hella macho

* Alpha Jungkook arises hehe

* ever since then he was more aware that people would be looking at you and more interested in you in general

* anyways

* he’s hella excited to be a dad

* his excitement is so pure and genuine it’s so sweet

* it’s like every day he gets more excited and you think by the full 9 months he’ll just be so excited he’ll be vibrating like a washing machine lol

* every night he kisses you and your baby good night

* “Night night baby jeon spawnie”

* without fail it makes you giggle

* his lil nose always brushes against your skin when he says it and it’s ticklish and comforting

* you can’t wait to meet your baby to see which of you they look like and in what ways

* will they have your double lidded eyes or his unique nose

* will they have his bunny teeth or your short stature

* either way they’ll be the most loved being in this world

—————————————————ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ

—————————————————

Seven Months 🍼

* it was time for the long awaited gender reveal

* you and him had decided that you would go alone to the appointment since he had work and then you would surprise Ggukie when he gets back

* you decided the way you would tell him was by dressing in either blue or pink

* you know you know,, not really breaking gender stereotypes, but it gets the idea over

* so that’s what you do

* you wear you’re best maternity day dress and do your makeup all güd

* it’s 5:30pm and he’s so excited to know

* he barges thru the door and basically and sprints to you

* he’s met with a baby blue clad wife, her hair adorned with a periwinkle ribbon

* immediately he knows and swoops you up into a bear hug

* “Jungkook? We’re going to have a little baby boy!”

* “I’m so happy! I feel like I’ve drank five red bulls,, we’re going to have a boy”

* When you pull away from the hug his cheeks have tears dripping down them and his eyes are wet

* “aww baby why’re you crying?”

* “because I’m just so happy, I can’t wait to see him, he’s going to be perfect, we’ll all be perfect”

* “you’re right kook, we’ll be perfect”

* “You don’t know how much I love you, you know?”

* that was when you started crying tears of happiness too

* youd remember this moment forever

—————————————————ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ

—————————————————

Eight Months 🍼

* “I think it’s time to think of some actual names”

* “yeahhh people at work keep thinking I’m actually calling the baby Spawnie and then I keep having to explain why it’s called Spawn and i don’t particularly like explaining that Spawn is a play on sperm and that’s my sperm”

* “What goes ON at your work”

* “you don’t even wanna know babygirl”

* “ummm so I was thinking, something familial, i don’t want a western name tho so that rules out my side,, unless you want to call him Barry”

* “uhh no thanks babes”

* “yeahh they’d sound like the flash lol”

* “I don’t want none of that DC propaganda in my household thanks”

* “tru tru”

* “so what about your side of family? Can you think of any family who have named you like?”

* “What about Junseok? My great uncle is called Junseok and I think that’s cool, also it kinda looks like a combination of Namjoon-hyung and Jin-hyung’s names.”

* “Wow they’d love that, that’s a good idea actually.”

* “Jeon Junseok, has a good ring to it”

* “I agree”

* “It’s settled then until further notice”

* “It seems it is Mr Jeon”

—————————————————ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ

—————————————————

First Week Home 🍼

* The moment Junseok was in his little sunset coloured crib you burst into tears of relief

* you’d obviously been stressing post birth about the intricacies and once you’d got him home and settled it was like a weight of your shoulders

* he was home

* he was safe

* and you were both over the moon

* he had the smallest nose and the biggest doe eyes

* his dark hair swept across his delicate skin on his forehead

* you just knew he’d be the spitting image of his dad

* each following day with Junseok was amazing

* he was good for you

* slept so well

* settled into routine easily

* it’s as if you never had to worry

* and Jungkook was a life saver

* he was such an attentive father and husband

* always caring for you and Junseok

* every morning he’d bring you up a cup of herbal tea and bowl of granola

* and go check on the baby and if he’s awake change and feed him

* his paternity leave was a blessing

* it meant you actually got a lie in instead of Junseok waking you up

* “I can do the baby this morning, it’s ok”

* you say sitting up in bed

* “no no I’ll do it I’m used to getting up at this time for work anyway”

* “but you’ve been doing it all this week I feel bad”

* “Baby, rest, I want to do this, you deserve a rest after carrying the baby for nine months, I’m sure I can take care of him for a few mornings”

* then he gave u a sweet kiss and left to see his baby boy

—————————————————ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ

—————————————————

Eighteen Months 🍼

* you pulled on Junseok’s tiny yellow wellies as Jungkook put on his coat

* “where are we going seokie?”

* “P-p-p” Junseok tried his best to get out the letters

* “Yayyy we’re going to the park”

* “Me and your mum are going to meet uncle Jimin too, and you know what that means? You’re going to get spoileddd”

* “V tru, but why does he always spoil him? I mean it’s not a problem he gets free things and stuff, but do you reckon he’s compensating for something?”

* “Yeah as nice as it is I think he might be compensating for not being around as often as he’d like to, solo career going strong as all, you know how he loves kids, in his head he probably thinks he’s an absent uncle but in reality he’s ever present just away for an odd weekend, which is normal”

* “yeah I get that”

* “But it’ll be nice to see him anyway, we can ask him about his new single”

* “Oh I’ve heard that it’s pretty good”

* Junseok pulled at the hem of your coat, indicating he wants to leave

* So off you went

* the day was filled with jumping in muddy puddles and Jimin nearly falling in said puddles

* Junseok got all dirty so you had to go find a bathroom to clean him up at

* hence why you ended up at an ice cream parlour in winter

* despite the cold weather you enjoyed the ice cream nonetheless

* JK teases Jimin a few times because apparently Jimin’s white blond hair was vanilla ice cream and his was chocolate

* Jimin insisted his was bingsu however JK refused

* Junseok had a great time fluffing up uncle Jimin’s hair after that

* and so the day drew to an end

* you headed home

* Seokie sleeping in the car all the way there

* you gently took him into the house and the pair of you collapsed on the couch and immediately fell asleep

* it was the cutest thing

* and when you woke up you saw your two boys asleep so soundly

* and you thought to yourself how content with your life you were

* how lucky you were

* how much you love those boys

* and you’d do anything for them

—————————————————ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʕ•̫͡•ʔ•̫͡•ʔ

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The End hehehe :)

[haengbokjae-blog]

fae/fairy jae au

genre: fluff!!!

word count: 2501

A/N: fae is really the same thing as a fairy, its just the common male term for fairy!!!

lets pretend this Doesnt Suck ok? ok ty (and if im completely honest,, the part of the fairytale is a True Story from my childhood,, my dad always told me ab it so i thought it was kinda sweet ok anywayshifg)

this is heavily inspired by @/chenle ‘s demon!jae au, you really should check it. its so beyond precious!!

(this gif is literally so perfect for this .. just wait uwu)

so yknow youre just a Soft Soul

you like to take time away from all the stress of your busy life

after coming home from your classes and taking care of homework or tidying up or making dinner

bc yknow a gal’s gotta eat

sometimes u just like to go outside in your garden

(its french style,, really lovely tbh)

and relax.. Listen to music, play music

bask in the summer sun and feel the breeze in your hair

just girly things yk

imsosorry

anywa y s .. ,,,. .

you would also bring your violin out every once and a while if the neighbors weren’t home, or even if they were, the complaints were sparing because

Lets face it

youve been playing since you were seven years old.. You’ve just turned twenty now..

you’re good

uhh yeah. Hehe xd ok so

since you were a child, your dad always liked to indulge you in these beautiful fantasies, letting your pure mind take you away to something better than reality

you felt like magic was real for so long..

he told you, that everytime you laugh and smile, a fairy was born.

they were all around you, and if you listen closely, you would hear them giggle along with you :’)

of course now, you don’t believe it,, wh- pssh thats nonsense

tbh your heart just wished these things were real, that the make believe could become reality just for a day

things would be so simple, so beautiful, you could be a princess like your dad always said you were, and you could live a pretty life with the birds and fairies and and and

after a particularly stressful day, you returned from class to the house you owned by yourself near campus (for convenience yk) and just decided it was a day that you needed to take time for yourself

so , like a sensible human being, you put on the prettiest white sundress you had, you let your hair that was once tied up fall gently against your back, you poured yourself a glass of champagne (with basically more fruit juice than champagne bc bitter alcohol isnt cute)

and brought out your violin along with a little bowl of fruit and sighed before letting it all go once your bow hit the strings

you decided to play one of your favorite pieces, Introduction and Rondo capriccioso in A Minor, Op. 28

you only got a minute in before your neck started to hurt, you dropped your right arm and put your violin in your lap before sighing, giggling a bit, and taking a quick sip of your little champagne concoction

because damn it just felt nice to let go and play after not having been able to in such a long time

but before you could rest your violin under your chin again, you heard

a Boy

and …. is that a giggle?

s-shit thats precious..

WAIT

you look around, knowing you dont have anyone living near you thats near your age

its literally all old folk okay-

and right near the peonies, is this little mist

b-but your sprinklers arent on..

the mist starts to rise and suddenly, theres glitter in the mist

i-its pink… uwu ?

and once the mist clears, out steps a boy

a really cute boy

a very tall boy

“why’d you stop? it sounds so beautiful…”

your brain : w-wUAaAAAAaAA

you:

he’s… a fairy????

the tall boy blinks once before revealing the brightest, most beautiful smile

he walks over and sits himself down next to you in the plush grass, a pair of iridescent wings slowly moving and fluttering like a butterfly’s, and pops a blueberry from your bowl of fruit into his mouth

you’re literally sitting there…. Dumbfounded

did a fairy literally just pop up because you were laughing

dAD WAS RIGHT

“a-are you a…       f-fairy?”

his smile (and his little wings) legitimately dropped so fast

“i’m not a fairy im a fae.”

“there IS a difference okAY??”

“so.. y/n, right?”

“hOW DO YOU-”

“i come around sometimes”

“i read your schoolwork, your diary”

oh … oka- hEY WHA

after getting a better look at him u just kinda realize

wait why is he … beautiful

literally his skin is shimmering and his ears do the pointy thingy

“so.. why dont you play some more, sweets? you’re really good! after all, i came all this way to hear it..”

is he? …. flirti- no. no he’s not.. chill out y/n just bc he’s cute doesnt mean he thinks you are too

here you are . sitting, confused, theres a FAIRY fae in front of you

but … here goes nothing i guess?

you start to play again, and immediately he sighs dreamily and you can feel him staring at you with those sparkly eyes

all of a sudden, he reaches out and puts something in your hair, so your bow screeches on the string and you reach to touch whatever it is because the cheeky fae might have-

“nO stop!! its just a rose”

you look around

owo

“wai- i dont have roses planted in my garden right now...”

“well thats okay” he muses, then blows a few rose petals from his palm in your face

“i can plant some in your garden right now if you’d like! it needs a little freshening up…”

muttering while looking around “oh.. more freshening up than i anticipated” thinking u couldnt hear

u… u could

“hHEY ITS THE BEST I CAN DO IM A STRUGLGIN COLLEGE STUDTENT”

he just sticks out his pink tongue at you, and you notice how plump his lips are

they seriously look like rose petals.. this fairy fae

fairies and fae alike are described to be mischievous

what more can he get up to??

dont worry. a lot.

“well mr. fae, what will you do to my garden? my mother and grandmother helped me out with it, i dont want to go overboard and ruin it, they worked hard an-”

“if you please, my name is jae. and don’t worry. i know what i’m doing! you humans are too careful. have some fun!”

and as soon as he would even scan his eyes over the vines creeping up the side of your house, or the bushes of blackberries or the small rows of flowers, they all flourished, growing in ample numbers, adding sprouts of fruits and vegetables and spreading throughout the span of grass of your backyard.

your jaw was literally

...hanging open

“oh my… i-” you breathed. “j-jae..”

“you’re welcome!” he laughed, beaming down at you

the sun was literally shining brighter because he was there

the rest of the afternoon he stayed and watched you play violin, asking about different songs, who wrote them, when they were written, what you think the mood is

and slowly the sun faded and the sky grew pink

and everything was bathed in a warm light, jae’s eyes were still shining and luminous

“its been such a nice time, but i really should be going, i have pets to feed and a hut to clean”

ngl you were disappointed. you knew you’d miss him even if you only just met

but like… being needy? whos she?

“you’ll see me again, dont worry!” he smirked

“h-how did you-”

“i didn’t, but good to know you enjoy me so much!” he shook his head a little, laughing

he grabbed your flute of champagne and sipped until there was only a small bit left

he literally dared to turn the tall glace around so that the place where his lips had been

were now touching your lips

your face literally got as red as the tomatoes jae planted in the corner

you grabbed the flute of champagne, turned it, and sipped

(angrily??) can u sip angrily? (doesnt matter, u did it)

jae laughed once more and just sighed “you really are something, y/n”

“i-iTS A GOOD THING DONT WORYR”

for once today, he was the one flustered and scrambling to save himself.. funny…..

“w-well look. i have a way you can call for me.”

and out of the palm of his and, he revealed a little bell.

you held out your hand, and when he placed it in your palm, you realized just how much bigger he was than you

like damn for a fae you’re a Long Boi

you tried to ring it, but it was silent

????

“it’s too high for humans to hear, so you can be discreet with it”

“well how do i know that it’s working?”

he grinned and grabbed your shoulders, then moved your hair away from your right ear, then your left, kissing each.

your face is darker than the tomatoes he grew for you now ok a   y

“w-whAT THE HELL WAS THAT FOR?”

“ring the bell now”

you shook it lightly, and you could hear the tiniest little tinkling noise

“so you can hear this anywhere?”

“that’s right!”

“you had to kiss me for that?”

“well no, you could it hear as soon as i touched your ears. i only kissed them to get a reaction out of you”

“can the bell send you away too, or?” you gave him A Look

“alright, alright, i’ll be on my way then” he raised his hands in defeat.

you laughed though, he was really something..

“just ring when you need me, y/n” he called, and with a wink, the mist reappeared, replacing the lanky body with wings

you sighed and grabbed your violin, the bowl and the empty flute, and walked inside

that night, you lay in bed, studying the little bell. it was golden with a delicate J engraved into it

your eyes were drooping while you looked over the bell, and slowly you drifted off to sleep

during the night, the bell had fallen onto the floor, and because it was so small, you didn’t hear it ring, but jae sure did

so around like 5am, jae poofed into your room

mist, glitter and all

seeing you were asleep, he was confused at first, but picked up the bell from the floor and put it on your bedside table before walking out of your room into your kitchen

around 7am, you awoke to the smell of tea being brewed

it smelled so nice and warm,, the thought really could put you right back to sle-

what the f- w-why is tea on its 7:12 in the morning

you threw your legs off of the bed, your feet finding your slippers

and you grabbed the bell, clutching it to your chest

because.. i dunno what if something bad happens?

oh christ what are you thinking what is a fAIRY BOY GOING TO DO TO PROTECT YOU?

you round the corner to see..

“jae?” your groggy morning voice makes him turn and his wings twitch and flutter and his cheeks turn a rosy pink (he would never admit to that happening tho, try it lmao)

“good morning, flower” he said gently while flicking his finger and pulling out a chair at your dining table, cueing you to be seated

“you dropped your bell really early this morning, so i just decided to not make my trip here for nothing…” he spit out

was he being .. bashful??

“you put tea on?”

“and i made muffins, i hope you dont mind i used your kitchen”

thats actually…. really sweet

no one but your mom has ever made you breakfast

you nodded wordlessly and grabbed a cup of tea from his hand

“i don’t have a teaset like thi-”

“i brought my own” he said quietly

why is he so shy all of the sudden i-

he always teases you so whats changed now huh

he brings over two plates with muffins on them, meaning you two were going to eat together

you decided to take the first bite and ….

they were so goo d  like what

and ig he noticed you blushing because all of the sudden he was so proud

“glad you like them”

“t-they’re alright” you said stubbornly

he grinned and shook his head, taking a bite

you both finished breakfast together, talking a bit along the way, him teasing you more about not wanting to admit that he’s actually a damn good cook

and finally you realized your class would be starting soon… fuc

“what time is- oh GOd i have class in thirty- jae, i’m sorry but i need to go- shit we need to cLEAN okay quick i’ll take th-”

“you get ready, i’ll tidy up” he said immediately

“but- don’t be silly! Cmon i can take-”

“y/n, im not necessarily assertive for much, but i will be now. go. i can take care of this”

this mans… is he really ?

you were stopped in your tracks but he raised an eyebrow at you

and you turned away sO FAST to hide a blush bc

wow this fae is … g orge o u s ok

and since you were turned around

(and not to mention class was quickly approaching and you couldnt afford to waste more time) you decided at last to just leave jae to it

you could just feel him smirking in such a satisfied way hghfh

you marched on to your room and picked out a casual outfit and just threw it on, then proceeded to brush your teeth and braid your hair rather messily

you emerged again and the kitchen was … spotless??

(better than it had been, to your embarrassment)

“w-hoW DO YOU”

“y/n, class?”

“oh dEAR YOU’RE RIGHT”

you quickly ran to the door with jae at your heels and turned to say goodbye.

“until next time...i guess?”

only “ig” because who knows when he’ll just pop up, does the bell even matter to him?

protip: it doesn’t

PRO protip: he’s gonna show up when he wants bc lets face it he wants to be around you as much as he can but he’d never admit that

unless u did first

“yes, you can count on seeing me soon”

why is he being mysterious .. explain

you cocked your head bc . tf jae

but he only grinned at you and leaned against the doorway

“i’ll lock your doors when i leave, you go on y/n”

“well, goodbye then jae”

(rather upset bc .. in all honesty, being away from him already felt wrong)

you turned around before making your way down the path leading to your doorstep

“thank you again for breakfast”

(you made an effort to smile [much to your own chagrin, bc part of you is so tsundere but you .. wanna make his heart flutter like he makes yours bc payback… yea])

he shook his head while letting out a soft chuckle

“until later, little flower”

and with that last flirty phrase, he winked and disappeared with his usual mist

as you walked down the sidewalk to campus, you took his bell from your pocket and studied it more, with a smile lingering on your face.

[aesjae]

Boyfriend! Jaehyun

#5 of Boyfriend! Series

Taeil | Johnny | Taeyong | Yuta | Kun | Doyoung | Ten | Jaehyun | WinWin | Jungwoo | Lucas | Mark | Xiao Jun | Hendery | Renjun | Jeno | Haechan | Jaemin | Yang Yang | Chen Le | Jisung

A/N: I honestly didn’t mean to be biased but i’m so soft because i love jaehyun so much so this boyfriend! would be much longer than the rest. i love all the members but im so sorry i got carried away ㅠㅠ

Word Count: 2,349 Style/ Genre: Headcanon/ very fluffy  Date Posted: 7 Sept 2017

omg i'm already soft at the thought of this

i'm just gonna imagine the loml being my real bf now to make things easier and fluffier

so can you imagine jaehyun

THE jung yoonoh being your boyfriend

omg it'd be so adorable and fluffy?

i'll not talk about the confession as i'll leave that for a future series

but after jaehyun confesses to you

he'd be so shy???

like his head would be bowed

arms awkwardly by his side

not knowing what to do with them so he holds onto the ends of his fingertips instead

but when you revealed you like him to and agreed to be in a relationship with him

his head would snap upwards towards you

at first looking really confused

but when your words fully registered into his head

a huge grin would just morph onto his face

that adorable grin that i can never get sick of

and he'll pull you by the wrist and enveloped you into a hug, burying his head into your neck/ shoulder, grin never leaving his face

and both of you would walk out of the venue hand in hand

it was a new but warm and fuzzy feeling

but you liked it

jaehyun would be one of the sweetest and goofiest boyfriends in nct

both of you would still be in high school

and you would go to every of his basketball matches and singing competitions

before every match and competition though he would make sure he meets you

claiming that you were his lucky charm

and that the match or competition wouldn't go well without you

even if it were a mere 5 minutes

he would want to meet you

both of you would be outside the gymnasium/ backstage and he would be taking your hand in his, head looking down and nervously fiddling with your fingers

you would squeeze his hand from time to time to reassure him that he’d do well

and he’ll up at you with those wavering and jittery eyes

omg how precious

and he’ll pull you in for a hug

that hug would give jaehyun all the strength that he needed tbh

he would have felt so energised

he would only reluctantly break away from the hug when it was absolutely time to go

but not forgetting to peck you on your cheeks or your lips before running off

probably leaving you blushing over there

jaehyun would really enjoy bringing you out for dates

i mean he would be a sucker for dates man

from those really simple lunch dates

to those extravagant special surprise dates that he may or may not have spent a few weeks preparing

let’s start with lunch dates

! ! !

honestly, jaehyun would be the type of boyfriend who would be fine with just eating fast food with you

i mean

broke teens

broke young adults

poor souls

ain’t gonna waste money on abalone or some shit on a daily basis

i mean being realistic here right

uall are still high school kids in this scenario

so jaehyun’s gonna be super goofy yet sweet

he would be teasing you with the fries

“(Y/N)~ Ah, here’s your fry~”

//extends his hand out with fry, only to swiftly pop it into his mouth when it was right about to enter mouths//

“Aw (Y/N), don’t be sad~~ I’ll feed you another”

well let’s just say you never got that fry

in fact, jaehyun probably snatched like 80% of your fries

“You’re so cute (Y/N)~ I’m so glad I found you hehe”

and he would pinch your pouting cheeks lovingly, with that sickeningly cute smile on his face

as revenge, you would purposely only buy one ice cream cone

none for jaejae

ey but jaejae is a darejae

omg that was lame

okay but

you may put on a mocking expression as you savoured your ice cream cone, seating opposite jaehyun

looking at jaehyun who had a frown on his face as he eyed your ice cream cone

and also your lips

suddenly he may let out a frustrated sigh and suddenly gets up

reaching over to your side of the table with his body

and suddenly giving you a peck

which became much longer than expected

stunning you in position

before you could react jaehyun had taken a huge swig of your ice cream

eating like half of the ice cream and some of the cone

chuckling as he licked his lips covered with ice cream

and when you finally recovered to your senses you could only realise in dismay and horror that half of your ice cream was gone

rip ice cream

and jaehyun would be sticking his tongue out at you

what a child

but a cute and seriously handsome one

okay now for the more extravagant dates

honestly, i would think that he would have planned something special for your school prom

promposal was probably one of the cutest things

with jaehyun being one of the smartest in the batch he would have come out with a really smart promposal

it happened in math class

and the teacher was going through trigonometry, asking if anybody wanted to volunteer to demonstrate the steps to an exercise question

jaehyun raised his hand, which was kind of shocking because despite being one of the smartest of students, jaehyun might be shy in raising his hands in class

but this time he raised his hand up confidently, causing you to just look at him with amusement

however, you didn’t think too much about it, looking down at your notebook again to work on the same question

when you finally let out an exasperated sigh, giving up on the complicated question

cheers began to erupt and your classmates started clapping loudly

numerous of your classmates started turning their heads to look at you with wide grins on their faces and you’re just like ?????

until you saw the board

jaehyun was standing beside the board

fiddling with his fingers nervously again, a sheepish yet hopeful grin on his face

shy, twinkling eyes looking up at you

beside him, in perfect black marker ink

“(Y/N), girl/boy, you got me SIN(ghing) COS of your beauty. You’re so beautiful inside and out, I’m so glad and blessed we both atTANded this school, because I get to meet you at one point, and I have no regrets. Instead of staying tangent to each other and only crossing at one point, let’s be parallel and never leave each other’s side. Prom, with me?”

i swear you probably would’ve cringed by the time you read that finish

but there would be some tears in your eyes

and your cheeks would hurt from your grin

because that was one of the sweetest and cringiest thing someone had ever done for you, even from Jaehyun

you wouldn’t even realise that the whole class was staring at you anticipating your response

and when you nodded your head, the whole call burst into cheers

even your teacher was clapping gleefully

and jaehyun would walk back to both of your seats, enveloping you in a hug

i mean it was only a promposal but you loved it

since you felt every inch of Jaehyun’s sincerity

but that wasn’t the surprise yet

the surprise comes on the day of prom

both of you would be dressed splendidly ( i mean jAEHYUN IN A TUX IS LIKE WOAHHHHHH)

and both of you would be slow dancing to a song,

when suddenly jaehyun turned back to look at the wall clock, abruptly excusing himself and saying that he would be right back

but he left you stranded, so you just awkwardly stayed in your place, not knowing what to do

suddenly the slow dance song transited into this soft pop ballad instrumental and you could hear the voiceover of a familiar voice

“(Y/N), she was the one that made me feel myself, even at the times i felt like i wasn’t myself. she was the one that understood me the best and stood by me during my difficulties, even when i had trouble trying to handle them myself. she’s more than i could ask for, and this is for her.”

and suddenly jaehyun neatly clad in his tux would step onto the middle of the stage

grabbing the microphone

and starts to sing a self composed song

some of the lyrics were words that Jaehyun and you said to each other

some of them were about the times both of you spent together

some of them were just jaehyun’s pure confession of his feelings for you

but all of them were part of his declaration of love to you

you were entranced in the song

but also in jaehyun’s eyes

he would have his eyes fixated on you throughout the song

as if he was pouring his heartfelt confession to you

but in front of the whole school

as if ascertaining his love for you

as if telling the whole world of his dedication and commitment to you, and to ward off anybody else who wanted to break the both of you apart

but both of you knew that your bond was formidable

it was strong

and everyday when you look at jaehyun with the same expression of adoration and love, you just knew in your heart that both of your feelings were unwavering, and would be for a long time

okay let’s end this mini scenario and get on

jaehyun could be a jerk face boyfriend sometimes since he would love to tease you

but most of the time he would be gentlemanly and really sweet

like even on his most stressed out and busy days, he would make sure he reserved some time for you

maybe just a daily text message conversation, face timing, phone calls, or just a casual trip to your house

tbh he would really care for you

even if you call him at 3am in the morning because of a panic attack or something was troubling you

he would be patient despite being woken up from his slumber

but he wouldn’t be able to go back to sleep knowing that you weren’t feeling great either

so he would talk to you all morning, until both of you were exhausted

and when you finally felt better and more at ease

he would hum you a soft tune as you feel yourself falling deeper

into his love

i’M STAYING UP I DONT WANNA COME DOWN FROM YOUR LOVE

okay ten you had your solo this is jae’s spotlight

i’M SORRY MY DEAR BIAS THE LOML NEEDS TO SHINE

jaehyun would just die for skinship though

hugs! hugs! hugs!!! everywhere!!!!

piggybacks!! arm hooking!!! cuddling!!!! 

and kisses everywhere

on your cheeks

lips

forehead

jaw

neck

palm

hand

!!!!!

but not sick okay it’s just a sign of love

handholding almost every time both of you are together

if you’re significantly shorter than him than he’d have a arm slung around your shoulder

if you’re around his height range then he would have a hand gently rested along the curvature of your spine

eep yass!! and uall will have bookshop dates

we all know how jaehyun likes books

he’ll definitely invite you to his favourite bookshops one day

and both of you would find yourself lost in the world of books

he may play games with you in the bookshop

hiding behind books and surprising you

which you would hit his shoulder playfully, chiding him for disturbing the other readers and buyers in the store

he would introduce you to his favourite books

hoping you would come to love them just as much as he does

it’ll just be this really cozy and comfy bookstore date

omg i’d love that tbh like asdfghjkl

and you can totally count on jamming to music with jug jarhyun

jaehyun imitations of the dances would be hilarious

like those on nct night night

and you’d find yourself laughing at how funny yet cute jaehyun was

and now, the part on fights

jaehyun and you probably will fight

it might just be a small misunderstanding or a small difference in personality

or maybe something as small as the change in jaehyun’s or your job shift

jaehyun might express his unhappiness directly most of the times, hoping that maybe you could do something to resolve the cause of his unhappiness

but your stubbornness may get the better of you and rebut jaehyun instead

it might end up in a minor argument

but it would be really seldom or rare that both of you would be involved in a major fight

some of the times though, jaehyun may just conceal his unhappiness, thinking that it would be for the best

for example, when a close guy friend of yours seem to be subtly flirting with you yet you don’t notice

jaehyun may simply grit his teeth and not say a word

because he knew how much you treasured your friendships

especially those with really close friends

but soon you would realise jaehyun was being unusually quiet

and notice how hardened and stiff his jaw was

and you may consult him

a little talk between the both of you would usually resolve any unhappiness or misunderstanding

understanding and trust would play really important roles in your relationship

but tbh, being in a relationship with jaehyun as your boyfriend would be really assuring

jaehyun would love cooking for you from time to time too

i mean his cooking isn’t bad

and he liked experimenting with food too

and he internally thanked his mum for teaching him her recipes

because he got to cook special dishes for you, his special girl 

hehe

he might be playful and cocky at times

but he would also be really sweet and caring as a boyfriend

smiles would be something you would never miss on a daily basis

except for when jaehyun was out and not with you :-(

and everyday this cute little boy would just light up your life!!

please continue loving and supporting this cute little boy because i would hehe

i love him

[unedited]  it’s midnight here while i’m typing this and my correct grammar doesn’t come out at night so pardon the grammatical errors

[acarnivalofstars]

Ensemble Stars Event Translation: Magical Halloween “OUT SIDER” Part 3

I love this mood whiplash from happy and cute first years to ANGSTY 3RD YEAR SHU TALKING ABOUT THE PAST and oh boy Tsumugi’s here too

This is a collaboration between me and my friend Dreamy! She’s working on the Nocturne scout so go check her solo stuff out too because she spent over 1000 dias on Shu. 

Sora and Hinata and Mitsuru are the cutest friends ever while Shu monologues on the rooftop until Tsumugi comes along carrying the Angst Train with him. Kinda.

[1F Passage (Halloween)]

Sora: HeHe~? Speaking of “we,” Yuu-chan isn`t with you today?

Hinata: Aah, Yuta-kun has a meeting with “UNDEAD”~

We talked about how it would be fun if we stood on the stage together, so we’re finalizing plans for the time being.

Truthfully, I’d like for us to always move together~

But, as expected, that’s impossible today. If everyone doesn’t work on their respective jobs then we can’t stay on track. Well, we’ll reunite afterwards, of course.

Sora: Is that so~? That’s good, huh~ Being alone is sad ♪

Hinata: Yeah....there’s still a little bit of time. Wanna do some job practice?

We`re expected to carry out both “Tricks” (pranks) and “Treats” (entertainment) perfectly, you know~♪

Sora: Yup, yup! I’ve spent all my time and energy on Live lessons, so I haven’t practiced enough on that end, see~?

Hinata: Then let’s start right now! I’ll play the role of the guest, okay? Here, I’ll give you a lollipop~♪

Sora: Mmph?! Hina-cha~n, you’re supposed to do that after Sora says “Trick or Treat,” no?

Hinata: Ah, you’re right. If I give you sweets without you even saying anything then it just gives off the feeling that I’m simply feeding you. Muu~ Looks like I’m still inexperienced, too, huh?

Sora: Hina-chan is  wonderful! Sora and the other first-years respect you quite a bit, y`know~♪

Mitsuru: Yup, yup. Even though you’re a “unit” of only first-years you’re tryin’ your best.

Even though “Ra*bits” is also mostly first-years, compared to you guys it feels like we’re moving slowly so it’s frustrating, yanno~?

Hinata: Ahaha! Is that so~ So everyone was watching us…...That makes me happy, seriously ♪

Sora: Of course~ To be watched is what an idol is, even if each person you see is different!

Let us draw more “colors” that make everyone see them happy ♪

HoHo~♪ Once again, Trick or Treat ☆

[Rooftop]

Shu: Aah...all the squawking is so noisy. The preparation stages were unbearable, but now that it is the day of the event my discomfort is increasing exceptionally.

Uuu, it is painful to the point where I wish to gouge out my eardrum.

“That`s no good~ you mustn`t harm your own body. It’s a precious treasure you received from your parents, right?”

That is true. Naturally, I understand. In that aspect Ryuu~ku…...Kiryuu tends to open his ears only from time to time so it is difficult to understand him.

You should scold him as well, Mademoiselle.

“Nn~He won’t listen no matter what I say. It seems like that child hates me after all.”

That is not true. He loved you.

As the one who has watched him from the closest proximity, there is no way I can be wrong.

To tell you the truth, I cannot remember just how much I was jealous of the bond between you and him.

Surely there is a reason why he didn’t stand to witness the moment of your death…...Even still, I am not a child. I understand. Although, in this life, that`s something I absolutely cannot forgive.

“..............”

Mademoiselle? You’ve gone silent once again, haven’t you……?

What is the matter? What should I do -- If you don`t tell me, I`ll...I don`t know what to do. Please answer me, precious person.

Tsumugi: No, no, there’s no way a doll could answer you, right~? ♪

Shu: Aoba

Do you have some business with me? Seeing your face is unpleasant to me, so leave!

Tsumugi: Ahaha. So you still won’t forgive me~ That’s to be expected, though. At least let me contact you regarding work, Shu-kun.

Shu: Hmph. What is it. You’re acting foolishly close.

While it may be true that “Valkyrie” and “Switch” are participating in a joint Live together, it does not mean I have personally forgiven you for your deeds, you know?

Tsumugi: You’re using difficult words, aren’t you~ Shu-kun. You have to choose expressions that can properly convey to your partner or you’ll be misunderstood again.

That sort of thing happens often to Shu-kun so I’m worried about you.

Shu: Don’t speak as if you know anything, you traitor! Even though I thought of you as a precious friend with whom I could talk about my hobbies, you!

Aah, people like you are annoying!

Tsumugi: Ahaha. I’ve always thought you as a friend, though.

That aside, there’s going to be something like a performance held on the rooftop soon, so...shouldn’t you move to somewhere else~?

Otherwise you`ll just become a hindrance, right?

There’s a soundproof practice room that we borrowed so we for our joint practice, so it’d be better to sew over there.

That’s what I came to tell you.

Since it`s soundproof, even if you don’t sew somewhere like this deserted rooftop...

I think you, too, will be able to immerse yourself in your work and lessons without stress, Shu-kun.

Shu: ……………....

Tsumugi: Ah, you’re ignoring me again~ That sort of thing hurts my feelings. If you`re like that, you`ll have a hard time once you go out into society.

If you don’t remember to put on something like a fake smile, you’ll be dismissed no matter the society.

We, too, are third-years already after all, so we have to properly think about our futures.

Shu: ……………

Tsumugi: No. It’s because Shu-kun is thinking that way that you’re letting us perform together in this joint Live, right?

“Valkyrie” is an exclusive, isolated “unit” so you could say it`s unusual, however...

You’re thinking of Mika-kun’s future seriously, aren’t you? To the point where you’re disregarding even yourself.

I can relate, and although this is probably late, I wish to help you out as much as I can.

No matter what I do, even if I give up my own life…...

The things we did won’t “go away;” our sins won’t disappear. But I’m worried about you two.

Please let me help, even if it`s an inconsequential amount. Please, Shu-kun.

Shu: Hmph…...Don’t bow your head so easily. It lowers the value of an apology more and more.

Tsumugi: Yes. But you know, this is the extent of what I can do, you see.

…...Isn’t the reason why you’ve become unable to hear Mademoiselle's voice is because Shu-kun is in the process of becoming an adult?

Adults don’t require a guardian nor a safety blanket after all.

Shu: I’ll keep repeating this, but what does someone like you know about me?

Tsumugi: I don’t know, but I’m doing my best in order to understand you. Because I want to be an upperclassman, an adult, a self I’m proud of.

Let us grow together, even though it may be a bother to you.

You can`t play in a fantasy world forever, you know?

[rizzizzsins-blog]

From the Ashes, Ch. 5

Wanna read this on Archive? Click here.

 It felt like an eternity before Dr. Dreemurr knocked.

 “Asher? May I come in? I am also bringing some other Royal Family members. You may accept or refuse to see them, and it will be completely alright.”

 “No, it’s okay,” he assented.

 The click of dress shoes let him know she was being followed. The door opened, and two very different looking goat monsters followed in behind Dr. Dreemurr.They were a couple, with rick dark hair and mahogany eyes that watched him with unreadable expressions.

 The woman introduced herself first, holding out a hand.

 “How do you do? My name is Fafriel Dreemurr, and I am the current queen of the Underfell Kingdom and its peoples. It is lovely to meet you, and to be sure that you’re alright… well, alright enough.” Her language and enunciation were a little stiff, but Asher could tell she wanted to be there. He shook her hand.

 “You’re meant to kiss it,” the male grumbled from back in his chair.

 “Gorey, he’s not one of our subjects. He’s not required to follow such outdated protocols.”

 “Hmph,” the male replied.

 “Come introduce yourself, you curmudgeon.”

 He sighed. “You’re right… I’m being unreasonable. Good afternoon, young dryad. I am King Fafgore of the Underfell Kingdom. I am pleased to see you talking and moving.”

 “Hehe, am I supposed to kiss your hand?” Asher joked, trying to loosen him up.

 There’s a beat of silence. Both women are frozen stiff.

 Then raucous laughter from the man. “Oh, goodness! You certainly know how to break the ice. In all my centuries of performing as King, not once has a male monster asked if he needed to kiss my hand, even those attracted to other males. No, you do not need to kiss my hand, but you may if you feel so inclined.”

 Asher elected to shake it. This seemed fine.

 “Excellent. Now, let’s get down to business…. Dr. Dreemurr, if you’d explain the technicalities.”

 The doctor took a deep breath, sighing with relief.

 “.... Mr. Asher, you have a serious, irreversible case of VCD I and II. Void contamination disease, and its mental counterpart, Void Contamination Disorder.”

 “What does that mean? I didn’t take past Intro To Monster Bio,” Asher admitted.

 “It means that the concentrated VOID that the Collider lets into reality to do its work has been completely absorbed into your body. It is now inseparable from you.”

 Dr. Dreemurr hands him a very outdated looking brochure.

 “I apologize for the datedness of the documentation, but this has not happened in a very long time. Anyways, VOID contamination on your level has enormous consequences on your mental stability and physical functions.”

 “Like what? You’re being pretty vague.”

 She winced. “I’m sorry…. I just really do not wish to see you suffer, child.”

 Asher swallowed. “I can take it.”

 She continued. “You have lost the ability to flower. You are infertile.”

 These weren’t really bad news, since Asher had never wanted children or flowers in the first place.

 “You are infertile both in the sense of reproduction and in a magical sense. You can no longer grow living plants with the touch of your hand, as far as we know, and your bullet patterns… I don’t know what they’re going to look like now, but please be exceedingly careful with using your magic.”

 He nodded.

 “You will experience symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, memory loss, nonsensical or garbled memories, memories belonging to other people or timelines, random facts or premonitions that turn out to be true, headaches, and you are no longer photoreceptive. You will have to eat much more food than you are likely used to.”

 He nodded, a little more weakly.

 “Thankfully, the DTC container did not burst or puncture during the Colliding process, or we would be looking at something much worse, but I understand that this is hard news to bear…. Other symptoms include chronic pain, partial molecular and magical instability, loss of ability to heal others unless they are also contaminated, difficulty exerting your body or magic, and tremors. Considering the severity of your contamination, any of these symptoms are possible at any time. There is little we can do to mitigate these issues other than physical and psychological therapy…. I’m sorry,” Dr. Dreemurr gulped. Tears sparkled in her eyes, but she refused to let them fall.

 “So… I’m guessing I can’t go back to work.”

 Dr. Dreemurr shook her head.

 “How am I supposed to make rent? Buy groceries?”

 “You cannot. Not reliably.”

 Asher’s breath picked up. Panic was rising through his roots.

 “What am I supposed to do? Am I gonna be put away in some nursing home with a lady spoon-feeding me?!”

 “Certainly not. That would be a waste of your remaining faculties, and maddening, I’m sure, for a man as young and alert as yourself,” Fafgore stopped him. “This is where my wife and I would like to come in. We have an alternative proposition for you. You can accept or revoke your consent at any time.”

 Asher took deep breaths and tried to listen.

 Dr. Dreemurr handed him a cup of tea, his bed manifesting a table to steady it. He couldn’t drink it. His hands almost knocked the cup over until he tucked them under his thighs.

 She handed him a silly straw with a strained smile. He took it with his mouth and drank the tea in slow sips.

 It did make him feel just a little better.

 “We would like to, as the Royal Families, with my wife and I at the helm, offer you a lifelong trust fund and assistance. You would not be wealthy, but you would want for nothing. You could live in any assisted living facility you liked, or with an attendant, but you would retain your independence.”

 “That doesn’t sound very independent.”

 “It is the best we can do,” Fafgore sighed. “I know how frustrating this must be for you. A close confidant of mine underwent this many years ago.”

 Asher’s lower lip trembled.

 The last things he’d used to cope with life had been taken away.

 “W-with all respect, your Highness…. You can’t.”

 Fafgore nodded sagely. “In any case, we would like to offer you our deepest apologies for what has happened, and our assistance. This phone number is a direct line to our house. Please avoid sharing it if possible. You may contact us at any time, no matter the hour, and we will respond.” He handed Asher… a business card, amusingly enough. Asher nodded his thanks.

 “Well… we would strongly recommend that you do not drive home. Do you have a ride, or would you like us to arrange for someone?” Dr. Dreemurr asked.

 “I-- I can f-find someone on my app.”

 “Alright. Your clothes and personal items that survived are in the cabinet over there. Please use the rails if you have difficulty walking to it, but you should have about 80% faculty in your legs or more.”

 The queen of Underfell approached Asher, a slightly softer look in her harsh expression.

 She took a knee on the ground, and clasped his hand tightly.

 “My deepest apologies…. This should never have happened. If you decide to accept our assistance, you will be like my own child. You will want for nothing.”

 Fafgore and Asher both bristled a bit at the mention of children.

 “Thank you…. I need some time to think, your Highness.”

 She shook her head. “Fafriel is fine, child.”

 He nodded. Fafgore approached next. He gave Asher a deep bow, then kissed Asher’s hand.

 “You do not need to be alone. My wife and I are not the most exciting company, but our assistance will always be available to you.”

 Asher nodded again. The royal couple departed, leaving only Dr. Dreemurr.

 “I apologize if they seemed a bit over-formal… that is the nature of their kingdom.”

 “It’s okay,” Asher tried to smile.

 “I recognize this is a bit unprofessional, but… may I hug you?”

 That broke Asher. Tears rushed down his face, and he managed a yes between hitched sobs. Her fur enveloped him, and he could feel the fire of her magic imbued in her warmth.

 “I c---can’t remember the last time I was held,” he whimpered. She pulled him in closer.

 “I imagined… you have no family or partner listed in your records. I heard a young man demanding to see you, but he doesn’t seem much of a partner, if you’ll forgive me for saying.”

 Asher just assented, trying to control his breathing.

 “I j-just want us to be happy again.”

 “Take on one issue at a time, my child. Just one issue, one day, one step at a time. You may want to take some time to focus on your own happiness.”

 He stared up at her, terror and pain in his eyes.

 “.... How?”

 Dr. Dreemurr held him longer still, trying not to cry herself, before letting go.

 “Here is my number as well. There is a temporary walking stick by your clothes for you to use as you need it. I hope to hear from you, but you are not obligated to an old lady like me. Please… take care of yourself.” With that, she left.

 Asher wiped his tears up. They looked like muddy water in his hands. Disgusting. Every part of him was disgusting.

 Even so, someone probably needed this hospital room, so he took his first shaky steps off the bed, reaching for the walking stick. It was a sickly pink. He hated it, but whenever he loosened his grip on it, his knees started to buckle, so he was stuck with it for now.

 Even putting on his clothes or opening his app required several attempts, his hands spasming every time he tried to do a button or press a letter on his keyboard.

 Eventually, he managed to send a message to Scamp to pick him up.

 SCAMP: OFFLINE

 Shit. He really didn’t want anyone else to see him like this. To pick him up and wrinkle their nose.

 There was a second knock on the door.

 “Hey, princey, you still in there?”

 Asher hurriedly zipped up his jeans and buttoned his polo.

 “Y-yeah, come inside.”

 There was a snort, before the door opened. “Jesus, princey…. Let’s get you home, okay?” Cinn sighed, gently helping Asher up. It was hard to get used to the kind of tenderness that people were treating him with lately. Hopefully, gods he hoped it wasn’t pity.

 Cinn moves him into the elevator, and they head down to the parking lot.

 “Normally you could gimme an address and I’d port ya home, but I don’t wanna move you through spacetime in your state, so driving it is.”

 He walked Asher to an ‘86 Grand Prix in nearly perfect condition, a stark contrast to the walking wreck of a Lada that Scamp drove around.

 “This is certainly an upgrade.”

 “From what?” Cinn sees his phone. “Aww, please don’t tell me you’ve gotten in the walkin’ spontaneous combustion hazard that is Scamp’s car.”

 “I have. He’s actually my favorite driver on the app. Law-breaking as fuck, but he gives a smooth ride…. Uh, in the car! As a driver” Asher quickly corrected himself.

 “So ya know about Scamp’s side gig too, huh… I highly recommend. His aftercare’s the shit.”

 If Asher had been drinking anything, he would have spit it out.

 “Anyways, let’s get ya nice and comfy in there.” He scooped Asher up and placed him in the front passenger seat, bundling him up with a nice blanket.

 “I’m not an old lady, Cinn.”

 “Believe me. Yer gonna be a lot more sensitive to the temperature from now on.”

 They slowly backed out of the parking lot, and Asher gave him the address. Cinn seemed to know where he was going, until he took a wrong turn and missed an exit.

 “Whoops,” he chuckled, continuing to drive.

 After his fifth mistake, Asher caught on.

 “You’re stalling.”

 “I--err----”

 “Nope. That’s all the answer I need,” Asher chuckled dryly. “What I do wanna know is why.”

 Cinn sighed, then found a nice stretch of road to pull over in. The car came to a stop.

 “Look, I…. I’m not tryin’ ta kidnap you or anything like that. I just…. I know it’s none of my business, but I don’t really wanna take you back to that piece of shit you live with. I know his type. He’s not gonna support you in the slightest. I know you handle his bull all the time, but if he disrespects ya again in front of me like that… I don’t know if I can handle myself.”

 Asher pinched his forehead.

 “Look, Cinn. You don’t know me or him that well, and even if you’re right, we can’t avoid reality forever. So stop taking the scenic infinity route and just get me to where I need to go.”

 Cinn’s shoulders drooped a bit, but he agreed. The Grand Prix started up again, and they were at Asher’s apartment complex in five minutes.

 “Jesus fuckin’ Christ, this place is a walkin’ ADA violation. Is there a fuckin’ elevator in there?”

 Asher shrugged.

 “What floor do ya live on?”

 “9th.”

 “Please. I know I’m meddlin’ too much for your taste, but let me walk you up the stairs. I don’t trust that flimsy fuckin’ cane.”

 Asher finally smiled a bit. “Hehe, me neither. Maybe next paycheck I can….” he went silent. Cinn accepted the quiet, and they slowly worked their way up the stairs.

 As they got on the ninth floor, no thanks to the lack of handrails, Asher’s soul started to pick up. He was finally home. His bed and coffee maker were waiting for him.

 He knocked to let his partner know ahead of time that he was home. “Theo? I’m back!”

 No answer.

 “You wanna open the door? My keys got destroyed.”

 B̴̲̙͉̂ȕ̵̞̠t̴̹͆͑͆ ̴̨͋͘n̶͇̮̹̑̒o̷̲̚b̵̨͍̲̌͋̂ȯ̸̡̯̻d̷̜̳̊̇͜y̶̞̻͊ ̷̟̫̭̑c̶̟̫̠̋a̴̩̐m̵̺͚͗͛ȩ̵̢̮͆.̵̮̋̔͠

 “Theo? Theo! Look, I know you’re mad, but I really don’t have any keys.”

 n̶̹̬͇̅̔o̷̗̐̄̚b̴̢̮̈́̆̚ò̶̬d̵͎̠͆̄̚y̴̖͙̝̍͝ ̷̘̈́̾͊c̵̮͂̄ͅä̸̱͍̪̚m̷̼͋e̶͍̓͝

 ̸̮̹̫̈͛̎ṉ̶̯ȍ̶̮̔b̶̢̪͛̃͘ȏ̸̺̞̾d̷̗̼̓̂͐y̸̢̖̒͊̋ ̴͇͒c̸̞̹̑̈́a̷̮͖͊m̸̬̮͇̐̃̈́e̵̫͗

 ̶̠͝n̷̪̪͌̊ō̴̱b̴̻͌ō̶̖͝d̸͍̩̔͊͝y̶̮̞̓͐̋ ̸͔c̴̳͆a̵̖̟̓̚m̵̥̻̻̃̿̈́ę̵̪̹̉͝

 “I’m bustin’ the door down. This bastard has some fuckin’ nerve!” Cinn growled. “Can you stand on yer own for a minute?” Asher tested it, and nodded.

 “Stand back.”

 The big skeleton threw his shoulder into the door hard, busting it right off its hinges.

 Air dust flew everywhere, as if it had been settling for…

 Days.

 “... I don’t hear anything…” Asher’s voice cracked.

 “Maybe the cunt’s asleep. Let’s check it out ‘fore assuming anything.” Cinn carefully helped Asher down a couple of steps into his apartment.

 It was almost completely empty.

 His bed, his CRT television, his vintage coffee maker, his teapot, their minifridge, everything. Everything but dirty dishes, a note, and something crumpled up under one of the closets.

     “I tell you to come home at 10 PM.  

     You decide my word’s worth shit to you and go to work without even stopping by.  

     A whole week goes by and neither you nor the hospital could be bothered to contact me.  

     You’re never at home, you’re never in bed, and I’m sick of you neglecting me and acting like I don’t exist, just because I tell you things that you don’t wanna hear.  

     Sorry, but the fire’s just not there anymore.  

     Theo.”