#and we eventually got to her admitting that she only saw me as a child and that she always felt responsible for my feelings

[highraccoon]

when you explain that you're looking for compassion and believing in the best in each other in a relationship and that you felt it was inappropriate to bring up how someone else's issues (they are unrelated to the problem) were worse and more valid than yours and that you have no right to be upset because you're the villain for things that they misunderstood you doing or just did themselves and blamed you for. they also accuse you of being codependent with your needs. so you try to repeat yourself on your expectations and boundaries in friendships (i will accept no less than someone at least putting in the effort or having the desire to have a healthy friendship) and that there was so much she did that i never asked for nor wanted but i accepted it because i didn't want to seem ungrateful so whatever codependency she felt we had must have been one sided because i explicitly remembered that i never made her responsible for my mental well-being, i did not actually like that she treated me like a child and i had been complaining about that for years in our friendship especially near the end of it. i was an adult and didn't appreciate being treated like a child. but i went along with it because i was willing to let her get away with it if that's what she felt she needed from our friendship. so i sent her a basic infographic about healthy relationships and how they work and noted that the things i had asked for were just basic healthy relationship things and that i have never at any point in our friendship wanted her to take care of me. i wanted us to be equals. she told me that she wasn't willing to put in that amount of effort for anyone and how her boyfriend is her family and her life and her purpose and how friends just weren't really a priority at all and they certainly never got close to the level of importance as her romantic relationship. like... she literally disagreed with treating people with basic respect because friendship wasn't worth that effort. so i told her i hope she heals that wound in her heart and that she can eventually move on from whatever caused it but that i refused to settle for less than a healthy friendship just because she doesn't know how to love anyone fully or put aside her pride. that i genuinely hope she heals and has a good life but to never contact me again because i don't care to see it. that whatever is going on with her that she's been running away from isn't my problem for her to project onto me. she doesn't get to assume my intentions or thoughts or feelings about anything when she never asked me once. but fine, she has every right to think whatever she wants about me regardless of how true it is because I'm not responsible for her feelings, especially not now and i would genuinely appreciate it if she never spoke to me again.

people in the thick of amanormativity who haven't deconstructed relationships with others who are strict monogamists are so fucking exhausting.

[jazjelspen]

my angel baby (part 6)

alastor w/ angel daughter reader

(notes: alastor's adoptive daughter is in hell, let's hope she doesn't get eaten alive!)

(the singing lines you'll encounter were meant to not be in order.. you'll understand once you read it hehe >:) )

(caution: alastor being lowkey a bit manipulative? not too terrible but just word of caution.)

(tags: @maksdust @willowwillflower @sunshinesetsstuff @0willowwisp0 @projectdreamwalker @1potato2rulethemall @just-here-reading @avitute @pooplyface1423 @insomniacfigure @mo-0-o @thekanrojimitsuri2 @nevermorekisses @wildfire153 )

my editor <3: @kruncher

Rosie finished her sentence by patting your shoulder gently before her hands finally rested on the handle of her umbrella once more.

You fiddled with your hands as you shined an awkward smile.. you looked like a child about to give a powerpoint presentation to a class.

You then chose to immediately face the Princess once again, eyes on her entirely "but.. um.. Yes!.. Princess Charlie, I saw you at the courtroom presenting your case and I just have to say I'm very inspired!... and I would like to contribute to your cause somehow!.." you paused yourself from speaking too much into it.. wanting to save certain parts for only her ears to hear.

"I also would need to get back home.. and I know you have that sort of influence in Hell to get me a way in Heaven again!-- o...oh..-"

You felt your skin crawl as you barely acknowledged a suddenly teleported Alastor to your side, his staff holding up your injured wing gently to get a good look at the bandaged injury.. his eyes narrowing and a 'hmm' softly escaping his throat. 

A threatening spark in his eye flashed which resulted in your injured wing suddenly moving away from him, despite that flash not being for you specifically. 

In his usual Alastor fashion he seemed very collected, but it was a bit obvious he was much intrigued at your presence and your bandage.

Charlie seemed to finally catch her bearings, moving a few frazzled strands of hair away from her face. "Well.. Welcome either way! We can definitely do that! I will admit I only managed to get through to heaven thanks to my dad but I'm sure he can come up with some sort of way to get you back home!" she seemed to look at your halo and wings, your status as an angel very well seen and she was honestly a bit frazzled by a 'winner' falling down in here all of a sudden.

Rosie gently laid her hand on Alastor's shoulder "Poor little thing ain't she? Susan got her wing real good but I fixed her up right in the nick of time! no infection will harm her further."

Alastor's radio shriek happened again but in a much softer pitch "Susan did this?" There was a quick pause before Alastor spoke up again, "Oh I'll have to talk with Susan soon! How impolite could that old woman be! The senior citizens these days.." he rolled his eyes in a playful manner before Charlie spoke up again.

"Well!-- _____ was it? Let me see if I can get Vaggie to sho--"

"Nonsense!" Interrupted Alastor, almost practically jumping in between Charlie and yourself with a very odd excitement. "Why, I'll help of course! It is quite simple just taking a new guest to their new room!"

Charlie smiled half heartedly "Alastor that's so helpful of you! Just.. don't scare our guest please. I know how interesting you can.. get." the end of her sentence dragged on, as if dreading what he's capable of doing. "Oh and no deals! This is a freedom-oriented place! We don't want any souls to be collected here please.." she then just gave you two a thumbs up, a bit exhausted but still uplifting.

"Meanwhile I'll talk to Rosie here about her cannibals and how we intend to also keep them safe! While they also get their-- fill!.."

Alastor seemed to slither his arm around yours, elbows interlocking. "How exciting! There's so much to show you around here in the Hazbin Hotel! Gosh it'll make you wish to stay down here forever!" A loud cackle could be heard from him that eventually morphed into a bunch of static-covered laugher.

Your body froze as you were dragged away by Alastor up the velvet red steps, not even getting a chance to properly thank Rosie and Charlie.

You're stuck with him now.

Lucky you.

Getting dragged by Alastor was as if a swarm of wasps was lingering on your arm; absolutely nerve-wrecking. 

You stayed quiet as he continued to ramble, talking nonsense about hell, the hotel, how he thought of the name and the design.. basically bragging. It all went in one ear and out the other.

"--isn't that right darling?"

huh?

Your senses came back to you and your eyes flickered up to him once before looking down. "Oh.. my bad I didn't catch that.."

Alastor stopped in his tracks which immediately caused you to stop in yours. There was a pause..

"Why, my dear, since when have I ever had to repeat anything to you? You hardly ever daydreamed like this before!"

You let out a shaky exhale through your nose, "Yea.. sorry." you spoke in a subtle sarcastic way.

He shook his head, his tongue clicking into minor sounds of 'tsk tsk.' "Oh _____ darling there's no need to be so formal! I'm your father! Not a stranger."

You scoffed, "You seem to enjoy treating me like one."

His eyes narrowed down at you; you wanted to burst into a cold sweat just like that. 

"It's better that way, you have absolutely no clue about how animalistic these sinners can be!"

He let his arm uncurl around yours to stand in front of a hotel room door with one of the miscellaneous hotel numbers at the top, his hand covering over the door knob as a green glowing hue forced it to open with a single 'click', a key suddenly spawning and dropping right into the palm of his clawed hand.

Your nose scrunched up in slight disgust "Oh I, in fact, do have a clear idea.. "

Alastor didn't respond to your comment but simply took your hand and had your palm face upward, dropping the cold obsidian key on your skin.

"Your key to your new quarters! If there's any issues with it, do let us know how we can fix it for you."

Your fingers closed your hand around the item and held it tightly against your chest in a defensive stance.

"Uh huh.." you then skimmed past him to walk through the door, your free hand clenching onto the handle of your travel bag in stress.

"Although, I'm simply dying to know--" Alastor's haunting voice caused you to freeze, your head slowly tilted to look behind you with a chill down your spine. Alastor's eyes radiated red, red as sin. 

"Why exactly did you think it was a swell idea to drop aaaall the way down here?" His arm holding up his came pointing up and slowly down as he stretched out the word 'all', insinuating falling down from heaven.

"And somehow doing that while still staying pure as snow? Oh darling, I just must know!"

You huffed a sigh out your nose and rolled your eyes,

"You know, I really admire how hard you try to ask questions when you know I'm not gonna tell you anything."

"_______, even a blind and deaf man would know that voluntarily going down here is practically a suicide! And I know you, you must've thought of this real well hmm? Risking getting gutted like a fish?"

"What would you like to know.." you mumbled as you then proceeded to close the door on him, your back slowly turning towards him.

Until the door was harshly tugged back to stay open, looking over to see Alastor gripping the other end of the door knob.

He laughed, it intimidated and irritated you "My darling you seem to forget who I am. I'm no stranger, I didn't spend the entirety of my glory 20s and 30s to raise you alone just for you to attempt to disown me. Besides.. you still need me my dear. 

After all.. I was the one that held you when the thunder refused to subside, I built you a home.. a wonderful home that others would live in with pride!"

He grabbed your hand yet again to pull you out once more, twirled you suddenly and pointed at your current outfit, a bit dirty with faint spots of dirt on certain spots from first hitting that dumpster when you first got here. 

"Don't even have to mention the elephant in the room.. just simply look at you! Fragile as a flower, still a little sampling.. just a sprout." He next pointed at your wings, ears, and halo during the duration of his phrase. His tone slowly morphing into a familiar sing-song voice and melody you could have sworn was something from your childhood.

You scoffed "Okay that's nice and all but can I just g--"

"Father knows best! listen to your father, It's a scary world out there, " He teleported behind you in the opposite direction of where you were facing you, a hand on your shoulder as his shadow morphed into a more terrifying form for you to gasp and shriek at. 

"Father knows best, one way or another something will go wrong-- I swear!" You couldn't help but stumble a few steps back in shock and fear from seeing that shadow again, causing you to trip over your feet and end up getting thrown by gravity down to the floor in a sit-up position.

"Oh look! Sloppy, underdressed, immature, clumsy, please--" he walked up to you, bending down to grab your hand once more to pull you up harshly. His eyes glowing while closely meeting yours as his shadow laughed in the background menacingly "They'll eat you up alive!"

As he playfully shouted his words in that familiar sing-song melody that you couldn't exactly tap into at this moment, he yet continued to hold up your right hand up in the air and the other proceeded to hold your left.. he was now twirling you around across the hall diverting slightly far from your open hotel room as if you were both dancing in a mix of 30s and classic ballroom dancing. You tried to push him away but his grip was fierce and the sudden dancing confused you, making you unable to properly think about your next move.

"Father's right here, father will protect you, darling here's what I suggest!" He then finally stopped at the foot of your door, your vision getting a bit woozy from the intense spinning Alastor put you through. "Skip the drama, stay with papa--"

"Alastor for fucks sake!-" you finally exclaimed, rubbing your eyes and taking a moment to relax your eyes to recover from your previous state.

"I can handle myself! I know ways to protect my own skin and none of them involve you!" You panted as you stomped your way back in your given room, this time gripping the door handle with a grip you've never had before. 

"Now go do whatever it is you do, and leave me alone!" you slammed the door in his face and locked it as quickly as you could, eventually throwing your bag on your new and neat bed with a huff. 

You've never felt so much anger before since you were living and breathing-- these complicated emotions rising in you like a volcano that sat dormant for centuries until finally erupting and exploding fire and skin-melting magna. This all came out with you lashing out and now even wanting to tear up a bit since you always hated fighting-- with him, with anyone. It hurt. More than it should have. 

You simply crawled on your bed and held yourself, knees up to your chest and arms around your knees. Comforting yourself in the only way you knew how.

God, you hoped this trip in the end turned out to be worth it.

Alastor on the other hand simply smirked, your stubbornness will be no match to his own and he will be sure of that.

"Goodness. Even after all these years, the temper tantrums will never cease." He let out a small pitched 'hm' as he turned on his heel to head back to the Princess of Hell and help her with her next few plans with the battle against the exorcists. 

Unbeknownst to them, a pair of eyes noticed and witnessed the father and daughter's interaction in the hall.

Back to you,

Curled up in your hotel room you then decided to crawl over to your traveling bag, scrambling over to open it and hastily take out a few things like a smaller bag full of toiletries, clothes, and even your personal first aid box for emergencies. 

All would be put aside only for your hand to be looking for one thing in particular, hidden under all your neatly packed items was a journal you brought from back up in heaven to document events to keep your thoughts in place, help you cope with changes, and just as a way to express your emotions in a healthy way and you knew you would need these more during these next few weeks. 

Opening the hard cover your eyes were met with a small paper pocket that you taped up in order to save photographs and small thin memory trinkets. 

You smiled softly, your other hand then went to look at the side of your bag to take yet another photograph, it was the one you put in right before leaving your home to get to hell. 

Placing that photo on the cover of your bed, then taking out your photos that were inside that small pocket of your book you then spread them out all beside each other on your bed.

Six exact photos you had, each correlating to a specific memory you adored dearly.

First five photos were favorite memories of yours, some were of when you were hanging out with Sera, St. Peter, and other court member friends of yours. Either at picnics, libraries, shops, restaurants, etc. 

The last two were more than important to you though, they were two portrait pictures of her and you.

She was a much older woman, she died around the time you were born but never have you felt like someone was more like family in heaven than she did. Unfortunately you never had the chance to meet her until you were in heaven but at the same time after making an intense realization when getting to know her better it's as if you knew her your entire life. 

She was one of your favorite people, but one of your most painful reminders.

Your hand grazed over those two photos, your hand trying so hard not to clench them due to how many fucking things are setting in place, connecting to each other.

"I'll be back, I promise." you spoke to the images of her sitting beside her with her kind smile, you could see him through her smile as well "I'm sorry I never got to tell you what he did, who he really is.. you don't deserve the pain that comes with it if I did.."

You teared up, decades of guilt overwhelming you in this single moment. "I'm sorry grandmother, that he turned out this way.. that he did this to me."

You had no reason to apologize, no reason at all.

But she was so good to you, she recognized your last name but you couldn’t bear to ever tell her the truth and that guilt haunted you yet you reassured yourself it’s better to keep her from knowing who he really is with how highly she speaks of him. 

She treated you as if you were her own flesh and blood. She gave you a home as well up in heaven, took care of you.. guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree in that aspect.

How can someone like him, with a mother like her, turn out the way he did.

How.. sad, that truly is.

—---------------------------------------

You were sixteen years of age when this specific event occurred.

You have always been a good kid, always done as you've been told such as '____ dear don't forget to wash your dishes today', '_____ don't forget about your school work.', 'get in bed now young lady, you still have a bedtime you know', and '______ dear you're a bit too young to read the news don't you think? read this instead, more appropriate for young girls your age!'

You have always done what your father told you, followed every rule he sets, avoided every thing he didn't want you to do. 

Although.. whenever you did something you weren't supposed to was where you slightly feared him. He never yelled, never was one to do so. He was always a gentleman and as kind as he could be, although most of it for show. 

One thing he always was, is being passive aggressive. 

Passive aggressiveness was one of his many strong suits, and using words to get you to fear and to avoid doing what you were not meant to do was his specialty. You always wanted to please your father, for you knew that your entire life was the way it was because he chose to be responsible for you. This didn't happen much though because you just always followed what he ordered.

But sometimes being too obedient can be tiring and you were starting to get a little brave recently.

You see, your father has never allowed you in his home office for as long as you could remember, for all you knew he only took you inside when you were a baby with no total awareness. 

Why were you never allowed in his study?

You were.. actually never sure yourself, at least not until the days leading up to your death.

You were always told it was because it was his private space where he wants to keep everything neat and tidy, and that he wants his work space where he saves and writes anything for his radio show in there and that anyone on the outside would simply ruin the ambiance inside that helps him work.. or whatever.

Although, the older you got and the more conscious you gained you eventually thought that this rule is kind of.. stupid? It's just a study but.. you just guessed that whatever your father said was true.

On this particular day though, you wanted to give him a surprise! Only issue was that it included the study..

It was the day before Alastor's birthday, and you just wanted to check his schedule without being too obvious at all to make sure you had time to slip his gift either in his bedroom or sent to his radio studio.. so you decided to quickly slip into his study and check it really fast and leave!..

You spent the entire month before to find someone and commission for them to make a portrait painting with you, Alastor, and his mother in a single frame. Even giving photos of your father and your grandmother for them to reference, due to the lack of colors at the time with photographs it was more of a monochrome painting at best. This would be your birthday gift to him.

You waited for him to leave for work for his evening broadcast and you just came from school, pretending to be reading a book you were assigned to while laying on your bed and relaxing.

Alastor knocked at your door, letting out a quick 'come in!' In reply, he opened it for only his face to pop out of your door with his iconic smile.

"Hello darling! Just wanted to let you know I'll be off to do my next broadcast! Don't forget to tune in soon if you don't have any school work to do."

"Yes father, see you soon!"

"See you soon sweetheart! if I'm late for dinner there's always some leftovers."

He waved at you before closing your door and leaving a bit hastily despite being very early. You stayed as silent as possible till you heard his footsteps distancing away and finally.. that distant loud click of the front door.

You got moving, dropping the book on the bed without a care while scrambling up and opening the door to your room, your feet pitter pattering across the hall and down in front of the study, your hand reaching towards the doorknob in excitement. 

Until you stopped.

'What if he finds out? do you think he'll notice the slightest change at all?.. would he yell or get mad?.. ground me?.. he's never grounded me much but..' your hand inched closer to the knob, the moment your fingertips touched the wooden texture that's when you knew you weren't going to turn back.

'well.. it's a huge surprise for him.. it's just checking his work schedule without him knowing so he won't have a clue I have a surprise for him, it'll be easy!..' 

And finally your fingers wrapped around the doorknob and finally opened the entrance to the study with sudden anticipation while the creek coming from the door only caused goosebumps up your arms.

The room itself was dark and smelled of old wood from the floorboards and dusty papers, speaking of the floors they creeped like crazy with each hesitant step you took inside while your eyes scanned the entire foreign environment. 

Your eyes managed to make out in the middle of the room a large cushioned chair positioned in front of an even larger wooden desk that was wide enough as a school principal's desk would be. Approaching it you now got to see more clearer details like several papers and folders being sprawled around the space, two half empty cups of his usual coffee, pens in pen holders and laid with the papers,.

Your eyes looked up to see the wooden walls organized with draped over portraits of Alastor himself as a kid, others of paintings of his mother that you haven't seen besides the one in the living room and the photos he showed you, and.. one of you as a toddler.. your eyes couldn't help but linger at that particular portrait of you that you have never seen.

You looked down at the desk again to look for his work schedule since all you knew was that it was in some leather journal you saw him carry before.

But you were yet again met with a framed photo standing on his desk and it was one of you as a baby! You've seen baby photos of yourself but never one of where you literally were still sleeping in the crib.. you couldn't help but smile. 

But you went back to work, opening the squeaky drawers filled with hardcover books, folders with dates and names of several shows he's done before. 

Looking at one of the drawers nearest to the ground on the right hand side was where you found even more photos of you as a baby! And even others of himself growing up and some of his mother, your heart warmed at the thought of your father always keeping his family in mind. 

And how amazing was it that the leather journal you were looking for to finally show up! 

Taking it out with great anticipation you skimmed through the pages of his endless paragraphs and paragraphs of letters and numbers.. suddenly stopping at a particular page where there were.. stains.. they looked almost black in the dark but by squinting your eyes you can barely tell a dark hue of red.. you stood up to see if there was a small lamp on the desk that you missed but right as yo--

"What are you doing here."

Alastor's voice boomed across the room startling you to the point where the journal closed and almost jumped out of your arms as you gasped.

Your eyes darted at the door which didn't seem to hear the creek open the way it did when you came in, covered in darkness was Alastor of course.. his eyes and smile seemingly piercing through the darkness as his figure was illuminated from the light in the halls.

"Father!-- I.. I'm.. I just wanted to--" He interrupted you not by speaking, but by walking in and the creeks from the wooden floors seemed more threatening than when you first heard them. The closer he got the more your shoulders raised up.. "Look I'm sorry I just wanted to see your work schedule, that's all!.."

"Darling." god even the way he pulled on the chain attached to the lamp made it scary as well.. "You have never disobeyed me before, how can I work comfortably now?"

"I'm.. I'm sorry.." 

Alastor's aura seemed to at least lighten up with the lamp now.. god.

"Guess I always knew this day was coming.." he shook his head in disappointment, "knew that soon you'd want to leave the nest."

"But I--"

"Soon, but not yet. Trust me, pet."

"But father! I just wanted to look at your work schedule.."

"And you could've asked, not sneaked in like some thief.. I never raised you that way." Despite how the situation is though.. he had his eerie permanent smile on his face which only confused you more.

"You see my dear, by disobeying me even in the simplest of things only calls for danger. Unnecessary trouble to lure and latch onto you. Trouble in which even I won't protect you from."

Why was he talking like this?.. you were unsure.. but you knew that he was leading on to make some kind of point.. but in a sing-song type of approach. 

It wasn't uncommon for him to sing lessons to you at this age or whatever age you and him were, it's a common thing to you that his theatrics were an everyday thing.. it's how you learned how to sing yourself.

He continued, "Gullible, naive, positively grubby, ditzy, and a bit.. well.. hmm.. vague!"

You shook your head in confusion, him taking himself beside you to then shine you the most.. warming smile yet. The mixed signals were insane.

Seeing your confusion he only intensified it more "oh but darling I'm just saying cause' I love you, father understands, father's here to help you, all I have is one request!..” he spun around you as he ended up facing you and holding your hands in his, finally pulling you in a warm hug. oh wow.. he was never one to say ‘I love you’ much.. This total change was whiplash at its finest. 

You melted in the hug quite easily as you were always an affectionate child, plus you wanted to get rid of the guilt by just.. hoping he would forget what you tried to do. 

“_____?”

“Yes?..” 

The energy changed.

“Don’t ever come back into my study, again.”

“I..” you were speechless.. you were starting to question his authority slightly more than ever but.. “Yes father..”

“Oh I love you very much dear..”

You smiled slightly despite the stern scold he gave just now, but he was also never one to hug much so this made you feel nice.. 

“I love you more..” you could almost feel Alastor slowly grab onto the journal you were holding and tucked it in his coat which he usually wore out to work. 

“I love you most.” Backing away from the embrace with his hands on your shoulders he also gave you an uncharacteristically yet fatherly peck on your forehead and hairline which was only saved for when he’s tucking you in at night and he’s having a good day. 

Leaving behind a small ‘peck’ sound. It was almost kinda awkward the way he stood, it was as if he was trying to make it convincing with how fast it was too. 

“Don’t forget it!” He smiled at you brightly as he raised up a finger to only move it side to side.

“You’ll regret it.. Father! Knows best..” he gave you simply two pats on the head with his palm and his book in his jacket due to how swiftly he took it from your hands. 

Leading you out the door with a swift motion of him pulling you by your wrist and into the hall once more.. this time making a mental note as he closed the door behind him to get a proper lock for his study next time.

He then immediately started scrambling out the door, “Oh well look at the time! Almost late for work! I’ll see you in a while, my flower! Remember, I trust you! Don’t break it again! Would be a shame if that were your gift for my birthday!..” Cheerfully announcing across the house as he finally reached the door to pop out in the wide world again.

Why did he come back? You could only assume he forgot the journal you were holding before..

You sighed, biting the inside of your cheek with your eyes wanting to water. “I just wanted to give you your gift perfectly..”

Arms crossed, you went back into your room and sat at the foot of your bed. Somberly regretting your terrible decisions..

‘Can't believe you broke his trust like that!.. and a day before his birthday??.. you must be out of your mind _____.’ Eyebrows turn down with a sad little frown on your face.

‘Although..’ your thoughts led you to look out the doorway of your room and into the dark hall. 

‘Is there anything else he’s trying to hide?..’

(HEYYYY thank you for reading chapter 6!! This was a total blast to write ✨ had so much fun trying to add a bit more detail into Alastor since he is still a serial killer, and he does this all out of love but it can definitely come out more.. manipulative. Whether he does it on purpose or not kinda depends on how you want to see it but personally he does it on purpose because he knows it’ll keep his daughter at bay qwq -and yes! I used tangled songs because personally I felt like it really emulated this side of him so ya!! He loves her to death but isn’t afraid at all to pull strings.)

[elysianightsss]

RUN FROM ME DARLIN, YOU BETTER RUN FOR YOUR LIFE | PART TWO

You grab your duffle bag, with one last glance at Kate and the red vials still on the table, you left.

Part of you knew that Kate didn’t know what had happened to you, only that you had been sent away but back then you didn’t care. You hated her and you sure as shit made sure she knew it.

At first you thought it was a good thing, that you missed the helicopter ride out of there, you started to make up with Kate. Bond. But then there wasn’t another helicopter out of there for four months straight. Soon enough you became suspicious and found out why.

The team, excluding Kate, had been ordering whoever was flying that week not to land at the base. You were stuck there and after being there for so long you eventually began to pick up on their obsession with you. At least one of them had to be with you at all times.

Once you got semi comfortable with them they became way too touchy. The one time you managed to get away from them you searched Johnny’s room only to find sketches of you in inappropriate positions and pictures of you sleeping.

You managed to get ahold of Kyle’s phone to find a group chat with the four of them in talking about you. What you smelt like, looked like, your likes and dislikes. All the things they’d love to do to you. They were insane. You knew a crazy person when you saw one and there were four of them on base with you and your sister.

Your sister. The little trust you had built up shattered when you told her what was going on. The guys had been finally called away on a mission, one they couldn’t reject. You were so happy to get rid of them, to have you freedom back, even if a small part of yourself missed their presence. Not that you’d even admit that even to yourself.

You had told Kate all about what you’d found but she didn’t believe you and even scolded you like a child for making up such accusations. That was it, you’d had it. With the four of them following your every move and Kate giving you the silent treatment, you were starting to feel as though you were back in the red room.

You packed your bag in the middle of the night and hot wired a car before driving far far away. You made it to the mainland where you were able to go to the nearest hotel. You waited patiently before watching this older lady leave her laptop open to go get another drink. You swiftly grabbed it and ran into the nearest bathroom.

You booked the quickest plane ticket you could find, it didn’t matter where it was for. Thankfully for you it wasn’t too bad. You would be flying to Italy in an hour, plenty of time for you to get to the airport. Slipping the laptop back when no one was looking, you made your way out of the hotel lobby and out the front.

Now, when you thought that Kate’s team was obsessed with you, you were actually nieave enough to believe it began and ended with you being on base with them. You never even imagined in even your wildest dreams or nightmares that these men would follow you.

Not until you were about to turn a dark corner and you heard the familiar thick Scottish accent, “She’s ain’t just a regular civilian Cap, she’s trained for this type a shit. We can’t underestimate her.” Your hand covered your mouth as you fell into the dark crack in the wall.

Holding your breath as he went past, you watched Johnny with curious eyes before they darted around you. He was there but where were the others? Even bigger question was, did it matter?

At this moment in time, Johnny was the one standing between and the stolen car. Thing probably had a tracker on it, you needed to find a new vehicle but with him right there you wouldn’t get far and it didn’t look like he was moving any time soon.

Your hand moved down to your gun, flicking the safety off it while it still sat in your thigh holster. Just as you pressed the strap away you heard him speak again, something about Kyle coming to his location. It suddenly dawned on you that you didn’t have a silencer on the gun, if you shot him the rest of the team would come running and you’d be in an even worst situation.

Flicking the safety back on and the strap that held it in place you made your decision, you’d have to fight him. Hand to hand combat. Clicking your neck you rushed forward running at a ridiculous speed, he turned just as he heard your footsteps only for you to slam into him.

Both of you bursted through old metal doors, as you stood you took in the dusty, empty warehouse. Rusted railings and stairs, a filthy floor where Johnny was standing from with a cough. Your eyes were back on your target as you pulled out a knife and dropped your duffle bag kicking it to the side.

“Easy princess, just wanna talk.” He holds up his hands in defence while eyeing the knife in your hand cautiously. You ignore the throb between your legs at the nickname rolling off his Scottish tongue. No, you couldn’t be distracted right now. Not when you had a fight to win.

Your pupils widened, eyes darkening as they blackened. A sight Johnny had to admit made him nervous. You were a trained killer after all, but then again wasn’t he?

“No talking.” You clicked your neck to the side, before descending on him. You moved quick he noted, using all his strength and tricks against him. You were right about the girls, you were matching every move he made, countering them with such efficiency and a ruthlessness even Simon couldn’t match.

He’d never seen or felt anything like it.

You were coming at him once again, after getting up like his punch meant nothing. Not even a flinch. Johnny started to panic. Panic that he’d loose this fight and in turn loose you for himself and the team.

He kicked the knife from your hand and managed to be swift enough to kick the back of your legs as well, taking you down to the floor.

“Did you just- kick the back of my knee? Are you fucking serious? Childish little-“ you growl taking another swing which he doges but it gives you plenty of time to grab your hidden two inch knife and stab him in the side just below the ribs. He groans loudly stumbling back away from you.

“Did you think I’d be easy? I warned you didn’t I?” You scoffed, jolting forward sticking your leg out and swiftly taking out Johnny’s legs, he dropped to the floor, using your foot you kicked him in the shoulder sending him across the room, just as you had done to your bag earlier.

“You messed with the wrong cyka.” You growled as he got up, you stalking towards him fury blazing in your eyes.

Johnny grinned like he was enjoying this fight, maybe you were too. His big hand gripping itself on your neck, you grabbed his wrist pushing yourself off the ground swinging around his body and using his weight against himself slamming him down on the ground. He blinked up at you in complete shock, allowing you to grab the knife he’d kicked out of your hand.

He was down and you were ready and rearing for another round, he couldn’t believe it. A little thing like you, “Y’know people only have a certain amount of moves.” You smirked, Johnny raised an eyebrow groaning as he stood up. You didn’t even give him a second, rushing yourself forward jumping on him.

“You have five!” You yelled squeezing his head between your legs, his big hands coming up to grip the fat of your ass. You created a first, the handle of the blade sticking out of it, and hit his head right on the nerve you had studied to make someone pass out. Johnny yelled in pain, his eyes slipping close as he fell unconscious. His grip on you loosened to nothing as he fell backwards onto the floor. You simply landed on your feet looking down at him, your chest heaving.

You ran to your bag, grabbing it and running from the scene. Looking for a car, eyes spotting a brown jeep. Perfect. Hot wiring the car wasn’t even necessary, whoever owned the car had left the keys in the ignition. You pressed the gas and sped off as fast as you could not even looking back, though you did catch a glimpse of a ghost in your rear view mirror.

Shifting gear to four, you kept going. There was no way you were stopping now, you just needed to find a place to go. You weren’t going to make it to the airport on time for your flight. Ah well it wasn’t your money you wasted. Poor old lady.

You didn’t have a plan except to keep on driving until you could think of one.

Hours and hours of driving, petrol stations and greasy food later you pulled into a town which wasn’t marked on the map you stole at WHSmiths next to the Starbucks that had the best coffee you’d ever had in.

You definitely weren’t lost, you knew you’d driven all the way to Glen Coe, the north part of Scotland. Regardless of Johnny’s heritage, seeking shelter here right under their noses was probably a better plan than getting on a plane and moving from place to place where cameras can pick up where you are.

Out here in the wilderness, without WiFi and internet. They’d never find you. You walked around town for a bit then hit the road driving into the forest area to see if you could find a shelter further away from civilisation. And you did.

The present…

Happiness is a fickle creature. A constant companion to some, hides herself entirely from others. She’s been an elusive creature to you. You don’t particularly remember the last time she had visited you, it had been so long since she’d hidden herself away, you barely remember what she looks like. Nevertheless you feel yourself still seeking her out, even if you’re wholly against putting yourself into situations with others.

Just like this one, the Halloween bash. A stupid idea really but..oh who are you kidding it was an idiot idea and you knew it. But they hadn’t found you in the now five months you’d been hiding.

What’s the worst that could happen?

To be continued…

Tags | @fruitymoonbeams-blog

[ink-stainedkiss]

You’re Nothing Special (AKA: Perfect)

- Kusuo Saiki

Synopsis: Today, Saiki is faced with the biggest challenge; going to your home. The pyschic isn’t sure what to expect, but in the end, he figures out more than he believed he would.

Guys I’m am so sorry for taking so long on the Pt.2. I fear I grew a writers block when writing Saiki, but also because I had no clue where to begin with the Reader being so boring (LMAO) so that’s why she has an average life, but she’s not a complete robot. Also, can you guys catch which Laufey song I was inspired by while writing this?

“Regular speaking.”

Regular thinking.

‘Saiki Speaking.’

Saiki Thinking

Warnings:None

Word Count: 1.6k

Pt.1 ᯓ★ Pt.2

Today was the day. Saiki was going to come over to your home to work on the project. He was more nervous than he would like to admit. He just didn’t want to mess up. It was too late to back down because he was walking through the icy winds, about a minute away from the address you had sent him. His mind raced with dooming thoughts. What if her parents barrage me with personal questions? I hope it’s not awkward. He shurred not at the cold weather, but the feeling of unpleasantness.

Before he knew it, the psychic was standing in front of your home. There was only one word to describe it. Average. Just the way Saiki liked it.

You opened the door, a blinding smile on your face as recognizable pink hair came into your view,”Saiki!” You said cheerfully,”I was wondering when you were going to show up.” Saiki softly smiled at your happiness, ‘I’m sorry, I forgot my coat at home and had to turn back.’ That’s a lie. He spent most of his time contemplating if he should go or text you and say he felt under the weather. You frowned at him, glancing past and noticing the flurry coating the sky,”Well come in, I don’t want you to freeze.”

That would likely never happen, but it was sweet you cared. He walked into your home, noticing the cleanliness of the place. There wasn’t a lot of decorations and it was easy to see you and your parents had just moved here. Even if, the psychic saw trinkets that showed off the love growing from this home. A tiny picture frame that held your child-like smile or a hung painting of your baby handprint that was worn down. Saiki took off his coat, placing it on the coat rack next to him, ‘You have a very cozy home.’

You gave him bewildered eyes,”Seriously? I think it looks pretty boring.” ‘Is that a bad thing?’ Your face showed how in thought you were about his question, and soon enough you smiled,” I’ve never thought about it that way,” Looking around, you started to see what Saiki was talking about,”I guess it isn’t.”

“Honey? Who’s at the door?” Oh no. You turn your head toward your mother, who had walked out of the kitchen,”Just my work partner,” Saiki freezes up as your mom’s gaze lands on him,”Oh! Is this Saiki?” Did you mention me before? The blush rising to your cheeks didn’t go unnoticed by the psychic,”Yes, mom.”

A delighted look fell onto your mothers face as she stuck out a hand for him to shake,”It’s nice to meet you Saiki.” He nodded softly, shaking her hand, ‘It’s nice to meet you too. Thank you for inviting me over.’ Your mother glanced at you with an impressed look,”You should bring him over more often, Dear.” Your face flushes and you whip your head around to hide it,”Mom, please quit.” You give a desperate look towards Saiki and he quickly picks it up,”We are going to head up to my room.”

Your mother has a cheeky smirk on her face, one that makes you glare at her. Eventually, she drops her teasing and lets the two of you leave. You were finally alone and it looked like you had started on the project before Saiki even got to your home. You chuckled slightly at the sigh of your floor being covered in working tools. Notebooks, pencils and pens, sticky notes, and your laptop open,”Sorry, I just wanted to work ahead.” He shook his head, ‘I don’t mind. I’m glad you care about the project.’ Saiki could have easily done the work on his own, but he respected the fact that you weren’t…well a Nendo.

Saiki watched as you dropped to the floor, getting comfortable on the wood tiles,”You can work on my bed if you want or my desk.” Saiki glanced at the options, but ultimately sat down in front of you, ‘The floors fine.’ There was a split second where you just stared at him, an indistinct expression on your face. His brows creased and completely forgot to use his powers, instead quickly asking you, ‘What?’

You shook your head in amusement,”You’re just something else Saiki.” Am I supposed to take offense to that? Seemingly reading his mind, you continued,”Not in a bad way, it’s just, most people at school they’re so loud and judgmental, but you’re not like them.” Saiki was very confused. Is it a good thing that he stuck out of the crowd? Maybe, if it meant you saw something good in him.

The day continued, the sun slowly sinking and making you turn on soft lights and candles. Somehow, you both moved to your bed and really the only thing running through your head was information that Saiki already knew. The teacher said five slides, so we can just split it evenly. I hope he’s not feeling uncomfortable. Should I speak up? But we are both working, I don’t want to-

‘Are you finding your own way around the school?’ Saiki wasn’t one to start a conversation, but you seemed to be overthinking, so he stepped in to help. There was a flash of surprise on your face, but it was gone in a blink of an eye, replaced by a light grin,”Mhm! I’m honestly shocked I haven’t gotten lost and the teachers are super nice.” He nodded along, ‘What about the other students?’

Saiki felt an odd sense in his chest as a downcast expression landed on your face, clearly it wasn’t good. To distract yourself, you typed away on your computer,trying to act unmoved by his question,”It’s fine. I think our classmates only like people who have an interesting story.” A faux laugh sounded from you,”It feels like if you're not making a scene, then nobody really cares.” The psychic's brow furrowed at your words. I wish people saw you the way I do.

Clearing your throat, you tried to air out the awkwardness you brought in and played it off,”That’s really my fault, maybe I should have lied and said I’m the child of a billionaire.” If you would have said something like that, then I wouldn’t have tried to be your friend. The work in front of you two was slowly being abandoned and now you were leaning on your wall, staring at the open space ahead,”I think I’m only feeling like this because I’m not different. I feel like the most boringest person.”

Saiki couldn’t believe what he was hearing. You made being average sound terrible, but to him that’s all he wanted. Biting the inside of his cheek, Saiki dared to press you further, ‘It might be you’re just new to school and people haven’t introduced themselves to you.’ You exhaled softly, sorrow detectable in your tone,”Yeah, but usually new kids are always being asked questions and being greeted by their classmates, but so far you're the only one who’s made an impact.” That’s sort of good to hear.

‘Would it help to hear, if I said I like the fact you aren’t different from the crowd?’ Your jaw dropped slightly. Did he really just say that? Did I really just say that? Saiki didn’t expect to hear you giggling, a genuine giggle,”Thank you, it does help.” You sighed, leaning your head back,”I’m glad I got to know you Kusuo.” Saiki had to ignore how his heart fluttered at the sound of his name on your lips.

For the rest of the night, you spoke on and on. Saiki was sure this was the longest conversation he’s ever held. You told more about your life and he saw a tiny spark ignite in your eyes. It was no shocker to say that you were beautiful, but Saiki thought that your personality shined ten times brighter. Soon enough, the talk died down and you had turned on a movie. The psychic believed he would finish the show then leave, but then something fell onto his shoulder. He whipped his head around, but his eyes softened when they landed on your sleeping face. Are you really that comfortable around me? Saiki closed your laptop carefully, hoping to not wake you, and sat there in silence.

Your breathing was calm, quiet, and soothing to Saiki’s ears. Unbeknownst to him, Saiki rested his head on top of yours, unsure if this was a dream. While you slept, Saiki started to stare. Hard. He didn’t want to sound like a pervert, but he believed you looked so beautiful right now. There was a sharp bolt of realization that hit the psychic. As he watched your sleepy state, he concluded that friendship wasn’t what he wanted with you. The feeling pounded against his racing heart. This had to be a joke. A trick? I’ve never felt like this. It was a lot for him to take in, but you managed to slip past the psychic's vision and found yourself creating a new space in his heart.

Along with this new feeling, Saiki also realized something else. The more you talked, the more he saw you weren’t a boring person. Sure, you weren’t attracting chaos and the center of attention, but you had a personality. And Saiki thought that was just as perfect. The psychic reached a hand out, a throw blanket placed on your chair rising from its spot and floating over. He let it fly up and slowly glided down, resting comfortably on the two of you. Instinctively, you scooted closer, wanting more warmth. Saiki looked over, a little smile creeping its way onto his features. While you were sleeping, Saiki fell in love.

[x0llaz]

Ten Things I Hate About You

Jung Sungchan

Chapter 10) fake fan

Masterlist. Previous. Next.

Sungchan weaved his way through the entrance to the bar, getting stares from almost all the girls who crowded his path. The music immediately hit his ears, loudly drumming against his head. He somewhat regretted coming, but he knew that if he wanted a paycheck, he’d make do with the situation.

He found his vantage point and watched the crowd, scanning to see the girl he came to woo. And eventually, he saw her. She looked so unfamiliar in that moment, laughing, dancing with her friend, it was a side he’d never seen from her before. she seemed so free. He liked it.

YN started weaving through the crowd, and Sungchan sat down at the bar, ordering a shot. YN approached the bar, standing next to him, not yet taking notice. She ordered two waters, looking around and seeing sungchan sitting there. She rolled her eyes.

“Get it over with,” she said to him.

“Sorry what?” Sungchan asked loudly. “Sorry the music is really loud!” He feigned his confusion.

YN scoffed. “What are you doing here?”

“Enjoying the music. Are you a fan?” He asked.

“What you know them?”

“The lemon twigs? Sure,” Sungchan shrugged. “Don’t tell me you don’t,”

“No, I do,” Yn answered, a bit taken aback. “I just didn’t take you for the type to know them.”

“What kind of music would I be into then?”

“Rap. Like drake,” she smirked.

“Hell no,” Sungchan laughed. “Not drake, at least.”

“Fair enough,” Yn said, leaning back on the bar. “So you’re not here to ask me out?”

“Do you want me to?” Sungchan asked, and watched Yn roll her eyes. “It was kinda weird seeing you actually have fun,” he nudged her with his elbow. “It was cute,” he gave her a charming smile.

“Smooth,” she smirked.

The bartender handed sungchan his shot, and YN her waters. She started leaving the bar, and Sungchan watched her walk away. A few steps, and she turned around, giving him a look. After a moment of silence between them, listening to the music, she gestured for him to follow. Sungchan happily trailed behind her.

——

It was really a miracle to Sungchan that Karina agreed to let him walk them back to their houses. The girls both knew they’d drink, and planned on crashing at Karina’s house if they got too drunk. Sungchan offered to walk them, fully aware that he may be third wheeled by the best friends.

The three of them approached Karina’s house, and Karina, the tipsiest of all, hugged YN, a bit wobbly.

“You’re sure you don’t wanna stay?” Karina slurred slightly.

“I think I’m good to get home,” yn smiled. “Besides, you should sleep,”

Karina frowned, but agreed. She turned her attention to sungchan. “No funny business,”

“Heard,” Sungchan nodded with a slight smile.

“I’m serious. I’ll beat your ass,” she threatened.

“Relax,” Yn sighed. “He knows I’d rip him a new one,” she smiled at her friend. “No go to bed,” she shooed Karina away. Karina obliged, walking into her house. Yn turned her attention to the man standing next to her.

“You don’t need to walk me home, you know,” she told him.

“I know,” he nodded. “But I want to,”

Yn rolled her eyes. “Whatever,” she started on her way, and Sungchan followed.

The silence between them was awkward. Neither of them knew each other well enough to really say much. But sungchan was willing to take the first step.

“How long have you and Karina been friends?” He asked.

“Since we were babies,” Yn answered honestly. “Shes more of a sister to me than my sister has ever been,”

“Don’t you think that’s harsh?” Sungchan huffed out a laugh.

“No, she makes her hatred for me very clear,” Yn sighs. “I don’t really care though.”

Sungchan nodded. “I’m an only child, so I wouldn’t really get it, I guess,”

Yn nodded. She glanced over at him, his hair tousled, his hands in his pocket. Though she would never admit it, she did think he was handsome.

“You know you’re quite a mystery around the school,” Yn tells him.

“I wonder why?” Sungchan rolls his eyes playfully.

“I think the two years where you disappeared is mostly why,” she smiled.

Sungchan mirrored her smile. “Would you say you’re… intrigued by me?” He wiggled his brows.

“In your dreams,” Yn scoffed.

“I do dream of you,” he shrugged. “You could make my dreams come true,”

Yn rolled her eyes. “Do you talk to all the girls you have crushes on like this?”

“Nope,” he stopped, gently grabbing her wrist, keeping her in place, bringing her to face him. “Just you,”

The gesture took Yn by surprise. Contrary to her sister’s belief, Yn was no stranger to romance, to boys asking her out. But this time was different. And she couldn’t quite understand why.

She just let out an awkward laugh, and pulled her hand away, rubbing the spot his thumb had rubbed gently against. “Come on,” she sighed.

Sungchan followed.

The walk was back to awkward silence. Yn was left questioning if Sungchan really was serious, or if he was really good at fucking with her.

When they reached her doorstep, yn awkwardly said goodbye. Before she reached the door, sungchan called her name. She turned to face him.

“I’m serious. You know that right?” He asked.

Yn struggled to think of what to say. “About what?”

“Liking you,” he said, stepping up onto her porch. “I like you,”

Yn pursed her lips. “I don’t date,” she said quietly.

“But you could date me,” he smiled down at her. “I think that’s a good deal,”

“Sungchan-“

“Just give it a shot,” he stopped her. “And if you still feel the same, I’ll leave you alone,”

Yn looked at him, thinking for a moment, rationalizing with herself. But looking at him, she realized she knew what her answer was.

“Okay,” she said quietly. “One week,”

Sungchan grinned. He held out his hand and indicated for her to enter her number. She entered it.

They said a quick goodbye to each other, before sungchan stopped again. “Unblock me on Twitter, please,”

Taglist; @allyoops @snowyseungs @seobstarr @hollxe1 @haeeeeefer @dinosluver @sseastar-main @st4rryhae @m1ng1swife @hisrkive @papichulomacy @so-lychee @nicholasluvbot @woonagi-lemon @lazuligi , @julsinglee @daegale @leehanascent @bambisnc @nctrawberries @taroddori @mamuljji @chuutaroo @wonychu @wiggledingle @injunnie-lemon @ssweetreveries @kyusqult @enhacolor @7thgyu

[nothomegal]

“The little owl family” (Part 3)

(RZ!Michael Myers x GNReader)

Summary: your and your little sister’s life had an 180° turn when your parents got into a severe car crash, dying on the spot. You, being already past 18 had to figure out how to keep things afloat and give yourself, specially your sister, a good future. And you did! It was hard but you did it and became the absolute hero in the little girl’s eyes. People would often involuntary smile at the dynamic of your two, so wholesome and supportive, the perfect family bond.Bond that a certain Boogeyman noticed as well…

Warnings: typical mentions of murder, Mikey being obsessive and violent.

Word Count: 4k. (Sorry for so much text- )

Additional info: Gender Neutral reader. (S/N) = sister’s name.

(Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 4) (Part 5) (Part 6)

Both siblings have returned home after making a visit to the plice station. (Y/N) was a bit moody but mostly relieved that the police finally listened. They already visited the station, the day after finding the dinosaur drawing, but of course everyone thought they were crazy for freaking out over a scrible, saying that maybe some teens saw them around the Myers house and decided to prank them. They had non of it yet couldn't do much, the only advice the cop gave them was to close the doors and keep the inside of the house private.

Now however, when the police heard (S/N)'s testimony that's when they took it more serious. Sure, the probability of it being some dumbass dressing up to be funny was there, yet it worth checking just in case, specially when knowing that the real Michael Myers kidnapped his sister. And who knows, maybe he'll do the same but with some random child...

—"(Y/N)..."—

(S/N)'s gentle voice shut all overwhelming thoughts inside (Y/N)'s mind. They slowly put the knife next to the cooking board and look at their sister.

—"What is it songbird? Still scared?"—

The girl fidgets with her fingers a bit while staring on the tiled kitchen floor. Eventually she sighs and her arms drop.

—"I'm sorry..."—

(Y/N) blinks a couple of times, confused with their sudden apology.

—"Sorry? For what?"— you ask, genuinely confused.

—"For starting all this mess... I think Terry is right, I'm just a scaredy cat that overreacted."— she says, her expression guilty.

Their eyes widened slightly, they walk over to their sister and kneel in front of her.

—"You did nothing wrong sweetheart, you actually did the right thing! The police is there to help, to protect us."— you say softly as you cup her cheek. —"And you better get ready because tomorrow I'll say Terry some not-so-nice things to that goblin so he leaves you alone."—

—"It's... It's not about Terry anymore, it's about you (Y/N)."— she lowers her gaze even more. —"I- I don't like how much you have to worry now, and it's all because of me! If-... If I just stayed quiet, if I didn't ask to see that dumb old house we would be okay and happy, and we would be able to celebrate Halloween!... I ruined it all I- "—

Before (S/N) could continue with her rant, her sibling wraps their arms around her form tightly, holding her close in silence for a few seconds.

—"I said you did nothing wrong. This situation could've happe to anyone, and we got the unluky number. I know you're worried about me and I admit that I may not be at my best state, but it will pass eventually and everything will be right again."— you lean back a bit, your gaze warm. —"We just need to hold on a bit, until the police catches that scary man. I'm sure it will be soon."—

(S/N), more calm, nods as she wipes the little tears that were threatning to slide down her cheeks.

—"Was that man Michael Myers?... Is he the Boogeyman?..."—

(Y/N)'s body goes stiff as they think what to answer. They haven't told their sister about the stranger's identity, not wanting to scare her even further but it seems like (S/N) started to figure out the whole situation by herself.

—"I-... I don't know."— you sigh, but she doesn't seem convinced. —"Myers is supposed to be in the asylum and- "—

—"He escaped... Did he?"— she glances at you.

After a little pause, their sibling nods, their expression a bit sad, even ashamed for trying to keep her oblivious. But the girl had no anger or resentment in her eyes, but a desire to know.

—"What did he do so everyone are so scared of him?..."—

—"I'm... I'm not sure you want to know that... Long story short; very scary and bad things."—

—"What things? Please tell me (Y/N)! I promise I won't get scared!"— she begs you in a childish tone.

(Y/N) remains quiet, thinking. Eventually they sigh and stand up.

—"You better take a sit, I'll go get you a poptart."— you simply say.

The girl gets a little spine chill, both excited and worried about what her sibling is about to tell her. Ones the girl took her sit on the dining table and was munching the sweet treat, (Y/N) starts speaking while resuming their cooking.

—"Last year, a few days before Halloween, all grown up Michael Myers escaped. He killed people while doing it, and not in a pretty way..."—

(S/N) freezes mid bite.

—"K-Killed?..."—

—"Yes... Killed. One of the victims was one of his caretakers, a sweet old man that was there since he was a kid..."—

(Y/N) could see how physically uncomfortable their sister got, even if the details of how he killed him weren't mentioned. They began to feel bad for the little girl and were ready to stop the 'story telling', but the girl proved to be tougher than expected.

—"And what happened after he escaped?..."—

—"He... He tracked his little sister, that is now a teen. He murdered her adoptive parents, a friend and then kiddnapped her, nearly killing her as well in the process. The sister survived though, and Michael Myers supposedly died when she shot him, but as we can see he didn't..."—

The little girl listens quietly, taking in the information and shrinking on her sit every second, the munched poptart still untouched in her shaky hands.

—"Is he... Is he coming to kills us?"— she finally asks.

There are a few seconds of silence, until (Y/N) breaks it, their tone loud, strict, cold... Yet burning with anger and determination.

—"I won't allow it."— and you meant it. —"If he dares to come, I will break every single limb of his. He's not touching you while I'm still breathing."—

Such tone took (S/N) off guard, she never saw her sibling be so cold and serious about anything.

—"But... But what if he hurts you?..."—

—"He won't. Mom and dad won't allow him."— you reply with a softer tone and then turn towards her. —"Even if they're not here, they still taking care of us. We'll be okay, songbird. I promise."— you smile.

The girl remains silent, observing their expression to see if they're just pretending, but (Y/N)'s look and words seemed genuine. She eventually smiles back with a toothy grin.

—"You're right! Bet the ghost of mom and dad are going to haunt him if he dares to come!"—

—"Oh they definetely will! Dad was scary but angry mom was even scarier!"—

And the dull atmosphere from before vanished in a blink of an eye, the siblings talking about random topic which would make them either laugh or argue. The tunes coming out from the speaker only made their afternoon even better, singing or even dancing, anything to keep the dark thoughts away.

But of course, they weren't enjoying it alone. The dark presence was outside, hiding in the shadows. Even though he couldn't see (Y/N) through the windows anymore, due to the curtains they strictly maintained closed, their tone alone was enough to make him feel the same adrenaline spike, his chest heavy with some sort of excitement. The way their cold voice managed to penetrate and shake every single bone and muscle inside of him was an indescribable feeling, yet so, so adicting. They knew who he is, the atrocities he commited and how much of a threat he is, yet they made it clear how many fucks they give about it, only worrying about the safety of the little one.

And now... Now that the atmosphere inside of the house changed, so did his mood. The way they both laughed, chanted, danced... Every single interaction between these two radiated with warmth, warmth strong enough to keep the crude outside world away from their little happy home.

From their little happy family...

Happy family...

He should be envious of them, he should be mad at them for having what he could never have, she should try to destroy it, to destroy the both of them so he stops feeling bad...!

But... He doesn't. He doesn't feel bad at all, none of these negative and destructive feelings are haunting him, not ones. It's the oposite, he actually feels warmth whenever he observes them, some alien coziness that unknowingly to him would make his body relax and gaze soft. He's not sure why he feels like this, but he can't deny the fact that if feels good... Peaceful, he feels at peace for ones in his wretched life.

He should be content with that, with what he has it should be enough, it should... But he knows that his mind will crave for more...

And it's only a matter of time before he loses control.

. . .

October 28th.

The last couple of days been pretty uneventful, the 'Boogeyman' wasn't mentioned anymore and didn't appear ones, even the owl family resumed their carefree lifestyle and were already teaching their babies to fly!

But unfortunately, tonight the siblings couldn't observe the birds due to a hard storm outside. Rain, wind, thunder, you named it all.

(S/N) was in (Y/N)'s room, she was quite scared of thunders so of course she would ask to sleep with their sibling who, unlike the young one, was probably having the best sleep of their life.

The bed was quite wide so they both fit without any issue, each one with their own blanket.

At some point though, a particulary loud thunder resonated, which made (S/N) cuddle closed to (Y/N). The mentioned sibling woke up due the loud sound but thought nothing of it, ready to close their eyes and go back to sleep.

But suddenly, an alarming feeling striked in their gut. Something felt wrong, is the air colder? Heavier? Is their heartbeat too loud? Is the house too silent? It's hard to tell what exactply isn't right, but they know something is.

They suddenly sit up, their eyes wide and staring at the door. The little girl felt the sudden movement and also sit up, though her form sleepy and confused.

—"Uh?... What's wrong?"— she mumbles before yawning.

—"...I don't know."— you reply, still staring at the door.

The girl blinks a couple of times and also looks at the door. They both remain in this position completely still, barely breathing, until a very faint thud resonated somewhere downstairs. Sure, the noise could mean whatever, but the sense of dread inside of (Y/N) only increased, demanding them to take actions.

—"{Songbird.}"— you whisper, your tone urgent. —"{I want you to tiptoe towards the closet and hide in there, do not come out until I say so.}"—

—"{B-But- }"—

She has no time to ask questions because (Y/N) had stand up and was already searching under their bed for something. They eventually find what they've been looking for, a hunting rifle.

They then look up and glance at their sister, who was completely frozen on the bed with a horrified expression.

—"{Just go hide, please. And if things get ugly...}"— you pause, glancing at the door briefly. —"{Then run away, run towards our next house neighbors and ask them to call the police, okay?"}—

—"{But (Y/N)!... Y-You-...}"—

They nudge her side gently, silently telling her to stop talking and hide. With a huge effort the girl manages to make her body move again and as quietly as she could she made her way towards the closet, hiding her form inside and gently closing the door.

(Y/N) remained in place, near the bed with the rifle already pointing at the door. For solid five minutes absolutely nothing happened, the wind kept howling, the rain pouring and the thunders striking, but nothing else, there were no more odd sounds inside the hou-

Footsteps, the unmistakable sound of footsteps resonated from the stairs. Whoever was walking was doing it slowly, casually even, as if they owned the place. (Y/N) kept their posture, pre aiming at the door and simply waiting, if the intruder is bold enough to enter into their room they'll shoot without thinking twice. Sure, the idea of killing another human is scary and definetely puts their mind even more on edge, but it's either their and (S/N)'s or the intruder's life.

The footsteps eventually stop right in front of the door. There are another good few minutes of silence but it's suddenly interrupted by a loud and bright thunder, which illuminated the whole room and the hall. And right there, through the door crack, they saw an unmistakable shadow of a human.

With no time to waste and with enough evidence that there is an intruder, (Y/N) pulls the trigger.

BANG!

A faint line of smoke is coming out the rifle, but there was no thud or screams of pain at the other side of the door, nothing.

They remain in position for a while but after not hearing anything, or seeing through the tiny hole they just made, (Y/N) slowly lowers the gun, questioning if there even was someone or it's actually their unhealthy paranoia getting the best of them.

They got their answer when the door practically flew off it's hanles and a giant dark mass charged at them. They try to aim and shoot again but the intruder is way faster and manages to grab the end of the rifle and tilt it up the moment (Y/N) pulls the trigger again, making them shoot at the ceiling.

They both struggle, (Y/N) desperately trying to get the gun free but the intruder is way too strong, he's also big, which makes it nearly impossible to push away.

Realizing that things are actually about to get ugly, they shout.

—"(S/N)! RUN!"—

The closet door swings open and the little girl sprints out the room, quietly crying and extremely scared. The massive stranger stopped for a brief moment when he heard the girl, it was just a moment of stillness that ended up with him practically ripping off the rifle out of (Y/N)'s grasp and throwing it agains the wall with great force.

The next thing they know is that the intruder managed to get to their neck. Ones has a firm hold of it, he stands up to his full height and slams their body against the wall, knocking out any oxygen left in their lungs. It didn't stop (Y/N) from struggling though, doing their best to land a kick on his stomack or the lower (and more painful) parts, yet their attempts were cut short when the stranger began to squeeze their neck with both hands, making their struggles weaker.

Eventually, the lack of oxygen began to affect (Y/N) and their arms drop and their body goes numb. Only when they nearly fainted, is when the stranger lose his grip, not enough to let go but enough to let them breathe as they're kept in place.

Durning this little moment of calm another thunder striked and illuminated the room, allowing them to see the emotionless face of the stranger, staring right into their sould.

—"{Myers...}"— you mouth breathlessly.

A sudden little thud followed by a rubber squeak got their attention. (Y/N)'s eyes wide and fill with terror when they see (S/N) standing in the doorway with a little pile of toys in one arm.

—"Leave them alone! You ugly monster!"—

She exclaims as she throws another toy into Michael's broad back, the toy making little to no harm. The man merely glances over his shoulder, his gaze now focused on her little frame.

—"You're mad at us because we visited your home, are you?! (Y/N) did absolutelly nothing wrong, we went there because of me! I am the guilty one! You should've punish me instead!"—

She exclaims again, tears sliding down her cheeks like rivers yet she didn't care. The girl stood high and threw another toy.

—"Or you want to take them away?! I know you have a little sister too, I- "— she hiccups a bit. —"I can be your new little sister! Please take me! Punish me! B-But please! Please leave (Y/N) alone!"—

The girl ends up desperately sobbing, both scared of the man in front of her and the fact that her sibling may disappear forever. Michael slowly turns towards her as he lets go of (Y/N), their body falling into the floor as they gasp for air.

The man starts to slowly and menacingly walk towards (S/N). The girl suddenly realized the mess she just got herself into as she starts to back away, throwing the rest of her toys at the man in a desperate attempt to slow him down, but all they did is bounce off his body into the floor.

—"W-Wait! Ne-Never mind! I- I ch-changed my mind! I don't want t-to go anywhere!"— she lets out a squeak when her back hit the wall in the hall.

The massive man gets even closer, his shadow making the already dark house even darker, darkness that threatens to engulf anything and never let go. The girl lets out a terrified cry as she shields herself with her hands.

—"(Y/N)!"—

The desperate cry of their name made them regain their conscience quickly, they see Michael Myers being just two feets away from their sister, blocking any escape with his broad figure as he extends his hand towards the little girl. Oh god he's about to strangle her just like he attempted with them!

(S/N) is in danger.

They must save her.

No matter what.

But what both siblings failed to see, was the way Michael moved his arm towards the little girl. His movements where slow and smooth, no aggression reflected in them.

When he was about to brush his finger agains (S/N)'s arm, a spartan-like war cry resonated behind him and something cold was wrapped around his neck. (Y/N) tugs the thick wire back rougly, causing the behemoth to stumble backwards, leaving enough room for (S/N) to escape.

—"RUN GODDAMNIT!"— you yell.

And this time (S/N) listens, sprinting through the stairs as fast as her body allows, leaving the house and not return.

The struggle between Michael and (Y/N) continued, they held tightly into the wire, trying to squeaze it even more while Michael attempted to get them off his back. The man eventually gets the solution and slams his body, back first, agains the wall, but (Y/N) doesn't give up. He repeats this maneuver a couple of times until their grip is lose enough to peel them off him and throw them into the floor.

The fall didn't go well, (Y/N) ended up going face first into the floor, but whatever pain they felt is quickly overshadowed by the adrenaline rushing through their veins. They know they won't be able to kill this monster, they know they're going to die, they know they have no chance, they know... But they refuse to go down so easily.

Durning the struggle, it seems like the man dropped his weapon, which (Y/N) had already grabbed as they stand up again. They hold the knife tightly as they stare into the man’s eyes, blood was leaking through their nose down their chin like a river. And despite this, despite all of these disadvantages, they stand hight and ready to keep fighting.

The killer must think they’re insane for even daring to get back to their feet, that they’re delusional for attempting to fight back… But (Y/N) does not care, not when their most loved one is in danger.

Michael remains completely still, looking at (Y/N)’s form. The moment their eyes made contact again, the same spine chill jolted through his body. The feeling was electrifying, so adictive, it began to intoxicate his mind, his eyes half lidded and breath heavy. He shouldn't be like this, (Y/N)'s eyes should not cause his body to react like that, but he can't help it...

Their eyes... There was no fear on them, only cold rage, a burning determination to protect and fight back. This gaze could be compared to the one of a wild wolf protecting an injured member of their pack.

The sacrifice they were ready to make in order to protect their sister caused Michael to feel a bit of respect towards them... Maybe even admiration, no, obsession. He was obsessed with their eyes, with their voice, with them... He was obsessed with (Y/N).

They both remains still, but eventually, and to their misfortune, Michael makes a move. He charges at them but (Y/N) seemed to learn from their previous mistake as they step aside and make a clear slash on his shoulder, causing the man release a low groan.

They attempt to stab him on the neck but Michael quickly grabs their wrist mid attack and tightly squeezes it, to the point that he felt something pop inside and right after that the knife was released from their grasp. But (Y/N) still refused to give up, this time they attepts to land a hit on his face or grab his mask, attempt that was cut short when Michael pushed them into the floor and practically tackled them.

(Y/N) glares daggers at him, their gaze hateful.

—"Don't you get it you sick fuck?!"— you exclaim, voice full of anger.

Michael only tilts his head, action that only pisses (Y/N) off.

—"I am not stopping, I won't stop fighting, not when my sister is in danger! Not while I'm still breathing!"—

And after these words they start struggling under Michael's large body, as the man himself got entranced with them again. Their bloodied visage looked so beautiful to him for some reason, their eyes filled with hate, not only towards him, but towards everything in the world made his breath shake. If it was any other victim he would be frustrated with such behavior... But not with (Y/N), never with them.

At some point, their struggles began to morph into quiet sobs, desperate and disappointed. They were disappointed with themselves, their helplessness and their inability to protect (S/N), not from this monster. They failed her...

They look away and bite their lip, holding their cries as best as possible, not wanting this beast to see them cry, to give him the joy watching them slowly break. This new picture of (Y/N) caused something inside of Michael's chest squeeze painfully, this new broken and vulnerable (Y/N) was very different from the previous one. It may not cause him the same thrill, but in ignites a new emotion, something he though he lost very, very long ago...

Protectiveness.

The same one he felt when he saw Angel cry, when she cowered away from him before he tried to reveal himself... And even after she tried to escape, he still felt protective of her in his own way... And now he feels it towards (Y/N).

Michael's head then straightens as he began to lean down, closer to them. (Y/N) tries to use their last bits of strength to push him away, slow him down, anything to keep him away from killing them in that same instant. When they feel his large arms wrap around their form, they shut their eyes tightly, expecting to feel pain at any second as he breaks their body limb by limb... But that doesn't happen.

They keep their eyes closed for a solid minute, and when still nothing happen, they open them just to be greeted by Michael's large form holding them in a tight embrace. His body warm despite his clothes being wet, the heat slightly soothing any pain in (Y/N)'s body, but not their mind. Being this close they can feel how powerful and strong Michael's body is, even embraced they can barely move, he could easily break their spine at any moment with enough force if he wanted to...

But (Y/N) had no time to question it or had any strength to push him since the adrenaline started to worn off and their vision and senses to slowly black out.

They're not sure how long Michael held them, but eventually he let go and stood up as the plice sirens got closer. He throws one last glance at (Y/N)'s nearly unconscious form before grabbing his knife and walking away.

But, it wasn't the last time they will see him...

Because the monster inside of him will force him to return…

[eueuphoriaz]

Cold War between Levi and Hange Part 2: Walltop

But first, I want to share my favouritest screengrab of Hange and her eyes.

I was literally stunned when I saw someone share this because it skipped my attention when I watched the show the first time. And it turns out this is an anime-only scene but I just love love how her round eyes watch in shock(?) or amazement(?) at the flare Levi shot, indicating Armin is awake and (guessing) able to control his titan ability. She just look so good with or without her specs that I want to pinch her cheeks here.

❤️❤️❤️❤️

So after that, the family had a meeting while Floch stood a distance away. In the blog that I read about the cold war between Levi and Hange, they mentioned about the dialogue on how Hange is also angry at Eren and Mikasa on their insubordination. Basically, I can organise them as follow:-

1) Armin's recount of what happened

Armin repeated what he heard from Eren, took stock of what he missed and the whole conflict between him and Erwin surfaced again. He took a water break and questioned Levi's decision.

Now, this is back to the whole Levi vs Mikasa scene again, only this time Levi's decision sided with Eren/ Mikasa. So he conveniently dragged the 2 kids down and pushing the "blame" on them.

Eren then followed up (after a reminder kick from Levi to take the rap) and said he is willing to accept punishment and this is when Hange spoke, not towards Levi, but to Eren.

Remember how old married couples will drag kids in to be the intermediary when they are having quarrels? Hange is upset with Levi but she said it via her speech to Eren.

Just because your dad eventually listened to you, it doesnt mean you can do whatever you want.

2) Levi's trying to appease Hange

Eren got embroiled in their conflict again and answered "No".

Now, Levi got what Hange is hinting at, and then took the "blame" up and said that it was his choice and decision. Note that all along, he was facing Hange and looking at her.

Now, it becomes even more frustrating for Hange now because Levi is admitting that there are reasons why he does not revive Erwin. And if I go by what he said to Floch and Hange at the rooftop, it seems like a "selfish" decision to just let him rest and not bring him to Hell again. This is because no one except Levi knew the struggle Erwin has been in. Unless Levi told them that or his assessment that Erwin's eyes were already tired and may not be the best option for Humanity. But I dont think Levi is that type of person to say those even if these thoughts pass his mind and influenced his decision eventually. Therefore, from Hange's perspective, she definitely is feeling angry and betrayed by Levi.

Just had to add Armin because this also appeared just after Erwin thanked Levi for a split second. And it is interesting how Armin's eyes here are mentioned again in his last monologue in Chapt 136.

3) Armin takes over Eren as the intermediary of their cold war

Now, our blonde child Armin decides to get involved in their quarrel and continued to question Levi's decision. This time he even brought up the fate of the Survey Corp.

Hange found a chance to attack Levi again and stated her stand. She, too, agree that it should be Erwin, if she were to be completely honest.

Now this line is only in the anime but not in the manga: "It's a shame we were put in that position"

Notice here that Levi turned and look at her full on. I am not sure if the translation meant that it is a shame there have no commander/ leader, or it is a shame that Levi had to made such a decision but this line of Hange shows the helpless situation that she is in. Her next line further shows how she expressed her feelings of helplessness, that whatever she had done or said, there is nothing else to change the situation because Erwin trusted Levi and Levi chose him. And that, to me, feels like Hange telling Levi:" I am angry and upset, but I cant do anything else about it".

4) She then encouraged Armin without putting pressure or expectations on him (anime reduced that part). Why would she do that? Likely this is her response to Levi's defense that he was the one who made the decision to let Erwin go. It is also possible that she empathised with the guilt Armin may be feeling after Levi announced that it is his decision to let Erwin die. I think she is also trying to spite Levi because only Levi and her has been talking to Armin, and when she told Armin "no matter what anyone says...".

Dont care about what Levi says because he is an a-hole

She has nothing else to say regarding Armin's question of why not Erwin. Levi is also not saying why, just that he wanted Erwin to rest. I can imagine both Armin and Hange are as confused and frustrated as before. But angry as she still is, she is slowly accepting it and also guided Armin to accept the reality.

Now, I am also guessing that Levi's turning and looking at her likely indicate that he is just realising the impact on Hange because of his choice - she has to shoulder the responsibility now....

5) Levi tries his pep talk skills again because Hange gave up and does not want to engage anymore

However, Armin did not stop doubting and questioning, and Levi knew he had to say something because he knows that Hange had conceded defeat and has nothing else to add on. So, in his awkward attempt to encourage Armin, he tried to build on what Hange said about the titan power and Erwin's life on Armin, and tried to validate Armin's strength---> he is trying to tell Armin that his choice is also based on a unique strength that only Armin has. (Indirectly encouraging Hange?)

And he goes on about regrets and mission. And this brings me back to earlier when he tried to give Eren a pep talk when he started to doubt himself after the failed experiment.

Only this time round, he is bitching about their shitty situation and there is no Hange to interpret for him, because she does not have anything else to say and she does not want to have any interaction with Levi.

The cold war is at the coldest, like everyone can sense the tension but no one can say anything to break the ice, unti Sasha came.

6) Sasha's "shut up"

Now, I just want to point out how Hange always use laughter or humour to get herself out of a situation where she is at a loss. Like her failing to get Erwin's permission to capture titan, risking her Oluo's life or failing to get Nick to talk. So, Sasha gave her the opportunity to "vent" her anger at Levi and escape from the tensed situation between the parents, but that did not mean that her upsetness with Levi has grown lesser.

Why do I say that she is still upset at Levi?

She turned and walked away from him

I mean it is so cruel, she just turned and walked away, not even looking at him or anything. Now, Armin, Mikasa and Eren are on the side of the wall nearer to Shiganshina, so she could have turned towards them and Levi while announcing the basement investigation but no. I think she is still feeling angry and upset at Levi here, even though Sasha helped to thaw and defuse the tense situation.

I guess with more children now, this pair of parent need to find a way to sort out their disagreements.

---------

Levihan's Cold War [Part 1] [Part 2] [Part 3.1] [Part 3.2]

[yourhighness6]

A Yue Stan's Thoughts on Yue's Character in NATLA

As much as I appreciated what NATLA was trying to do and think it is worth a rewatch, can I just say as an unapolagetic Yue stan that they completely ruined her, and Yukka by extension.

And say whatever you want about her scenes leading up to the sacrifice (which did make me cry, I'll admit, her speech about living was actually a nice addition), but it was actually this line that left me absolutely seething and in my opinion proves that the writers completely misunderstood what made the sacrifice so powerful:

I actually had to pause the television and collect myself after this one because holy fuck is this the stupidest thing I've ever heard. The entire point in the animated show was that she didn't get to make her own choices before this point. She didn't get to choose who to marry, she didn't get to choose her role in society, she didn't get to choose basically anything about her life besides maybe how to style her hair or something. Yue was a character who was extremely dutiful, but also extremely boxed in by her duty. It was both her greatest strength and her greatest weakness, a parody of itself, just as her mere existence was a parody: while she was saved by the moon spirit as a child and allowed to live on, it was that very reason that she eventually gave up her life. And the very fact that she was given these choices in the first place in the LA seriously undermined the idea of her sacrifice. Yue was told her entire life what to do, and although she did manage to find a bit of freedom through her brief romance with Sokka, ultimately, she still didn't get to publicly be with him or reject Hahn or anything similar. Her sacrifice was what she saw as her duty, yes, but her sacrifice for her people was also a way of standing up for herself and finally resolving to make her own choices. In that moment, she not only saved her people, but she finally made a decision for herself instead of doing something someone else told her to, even going against Sokka's wishes to do what she thought was necessary. So in the LA, with her having a place of influence in her community, with her being able to call off her engagement, with her being told that she could one day be chief, to that stupid fucking line implying that she was in no way ever repressed and free to make her own decisions the entire time, removing all of her character growth and any character significance to her actions, it was all basically pointless. It made Yue into a plot device for Sokka to bond with and to move the Aang-and-Kuruk plotline forward. In the animated series, Yue was not a plot device, and she was extremely well written, whereas in NATLA, her character fell completely flat. She talks about responsibility and pressure in her first scene with Sokka, but other than that, she has no depth. In other words, she has no depth besides her relationship to him.

Anyway, I hope we can all agree that her characterization and a lot of the decisions made in the last two episodes of NATLA were nothing but a pile of bulshit. From Iroh killing Zhao to Yukka having zero chemistry to Katara just magically becoming a master to Zuko being shelved to the plotline about Aang not feeling like he belonged having absolutely no buildup beyond a throwaway line in the second episode to everything about Yue I spelled out above, I would go as far to call it just plain bad. Again, I'm glad it got renewed, and I'll be the first to say a lot of other episodes get unnecessary hate, as well as that we are working with slightly different characters (especially Azula) in this version than the first, but I was really disappointed with seeing Yue in LA for a second time.

[crossover-enthusiast]

EXPLAIN YOUR CULT IDEAS AS MUCH AS YOU'D LIKE MY DEAR FRIEND

-📺 (ceaarl/gang-with-hatz)

YAYYYY THANK YOU SO MUCH @gang-with-hatz

(under cut bc. This got really long)

Okay so I already made a post about my ex-cultist Mr. Wonder theory so I won't go into that here, HOWEVER-

I'm going to ramble about this specifically because guys. Guys you're missing the prime angst with John's wife guys-

First I'm gonna get Actor out of the way tho

This one is mostly on vibes + clothes, plus him being the only character in SM 1 to not have any sort of major significance as of yet. Also him being a movie star goes with a lot of the cult having jobs/occupations related to things kids like, if Actor's in the cult his movies are prolly meant to target the older teens/adults instead

Also his eyes do the funny when he gets spooked by Ooga Booga in the first episode

Like genuinely Why Is He Built Like That

OKAY NOW ONTO JOHN'S WIFE

John and Lila have a lot of parallels: traumatized widows with a single child. Hope is dead, and John blames himself. Skid has frequently brushed with death in part due to Lila's irresponsibility. They both have a friend who's dumb and reckless but ultimately cares about them

So logically, this would mean that Lila's husband and John's wife would also have parallels, and if Skiddad's part of the cult, then...

I will absolutely admit this was just a silly crack theory/AU-- until I saw her photo from the ARG. It's just incredibly striking to me that the first photo we see of John's wife, the first acknowledgement of her period, has her with her eyes out of frame, not visible, just like Skid's dad. Her clothes, too, a cyan jacket with a dark green shirt and gold hairbands. It just screams cult to me

I'm not saying she was like, the cult's co-leader or anything, but I think she's involved, somehow. Imagine the absolute crushing irony there too, that John has spent so long trying to find out and stop the people that have taken his daughter, his home, his life away from him, only to find that his beloved wife was one of them. That'd just be soul crushing.

Also while I'm yapping I want to briefly touch upon Rick and Frank since I included them here too

I don't think Frank's in the cult. His literal entire thing basically goes against the cult since he actually gives the kids back... eventually. HOWEVER, I've been really warming up to the "undead Frank" theory, particularly the idea that the cult revived him ala Frankenstein's Monster to use him for their own purposes, but Frank still had his own mind (either metaphorically or literally) and fucked off because he didn't want any part of it (I would also like to thank @nonbinaryshotgunman for giving me that idea)

TLDR: he knows the cult exists, but doesn't know the members or what they want

Now for Rick... genuinely there's two ways I see it: either the comedic route where he joins the cult in the last episode as a "job", or the more serious/character focused route where he's a former cultist, and his depression and apathy stem from his time in it

I've just been thinking about it and like. He's worked for Evermore. He's worked at the Candy Club, which we now know is owned by the Candy Dealer. He's worked at the mall, which is a hotspot to sell Happy Fellas, which may or may not be connected to the cult. The only job Rick's had in the show itself so far that is 100% not connected to the cult is when he worked at the theater, and Radford more than likely helped get him hired

Somehow someway Rick keeps getting jobs that are in some way connected to the cult. I feel like it has to mean something. Plus again, main associated color is red, cult colors. Something I also find super interesting is that his toy counterpart in the SM 4 credits has gold rims on his shirt, which aren't actually there in his normal/casual outfit, implying his original design had them at one point but this got changed sometime before the TT merch ad

Okay I'm done yapping (for now). Thank you again SO so much I LOVE just talking about theory shit

[flubnuggetpurple]

Dove Cameron’s Alchemical album is so fucking bat coded I feel like a conspiracy theorist.

(This went off the rails at one point, so WARNING: vague mentions of sexual assault and being drugged without consent)

First song: Lethal Woman.

Cass, all over, right? The bridge is “she walks like a saint, floats like an angel, sharp like a knife under the table”

c o m e o n

Second song: Still.

“Man on the screen, they only see whatever you want them to see” and “Supernova self-erasing, hourglass is always draining”

Could be either Tim or Bruce, but I lean toward Tim because of “how dare you, dare me to love you, if you jump I will too” because whenever Tim decides he loves someone, he’s the ride or die, ends of the earth type, even if they don’t even know who he is. A) how and why he became Robin in the first place, B) The Cloning Thing, C) an argument could be made for the Captain Boomerang thing (but now that I think of it, I think I’m mostly basing this off fanon oh well ontotgenextone).

Song Three: Breakfast.

I will admit out the gate that this one’s a reach, so I’m just going to leave Selina here.

Song Four: Sand.

For this I’m thinking Tim or Jason, for different reasons.

For Tim;

“I saw the end when we began, you couldn’t love the way I can, I tried to bargain with the stars, for more than half your heart but you have more pieces of me than the dessert has sand, and I have less pieces of you than I could hold in my hand” and “our love’s misaligned, ‘cause you’re on my mind every night, I stretch out the time, and now I know why.”

I’m just making it obvious I read the Red Robin run, aren’t I?

For Jason:

“What's worse, being wanted but not loved, or loved but not wanted? What's worse, hearing what you wanna hear, or hearing what's honest?” And “What hurts, is the one thing that you wanna do, is the one thing that you shouldn’t do”

Pre-death Jason, but like, right after the Garzonas thing.

Song five: White Glove.

Okay hear me out.

This is part one of the Dick Grayson saga; the persona he shows to the public. This is Richie Wayne. This is every honeypot mission he went on too young, every woman he’s had to seduce for information (it’s one hundred percent happened before don’t fight me) every source of sexual trauma (that one I’m ninety percent sure is canon) that keeps him up at night.

And this guy’s been a vigilante for over twenty years, he can absolutely recognize drugs by sight, smell, and how they feel when he’s too late to notice something slipped in his drink. He’s felt nearly every strain of fear toxin and every one of Ivy’s pollens. If anyone knows their drugs it’s pretty boy Richie Wayne and Robin.

Song six: God’s Game

This one I’m definitely taking some lines out of context, but for Jason, “Just a boy with a man's face, playin' God's game” is when he’s taking over Crime Alley, pit-mad and trigger happy. “I prepare with so much care, I was runnin', it was stunnin', I am desperate from delusions, not much of a solution, never knowin' what the truth is, oh, God” is when hid plans start to fall apart, when Bruce slits his throat with a batarang, when eventually the pit-madness eventually starts to wear off and he realizes what all he did to Tim, who was a child at the time, not to mention Robin.

He nearly became what the Joker was to him to the next Robin, and I feel like at some point that would occur to him.

Song seven: Boyfriend.

(…Admittedly, I don’t think this one has any grounding in canon and if it does, feel free to educate me.)

So, obviously I could mention Kate Kane at this point, but I know basically nothing about her, so instead I’m going to talk about Steph.

So Steph has definitely had some shitty experiences with guys, right? Like, her dad to begin with, but also the guy who got her pregnant (at like fourteen? Maybe I’m just sheltered, but I don’t think anything about that relationship was heathy—again, I haven’t read many of the comics, so correct me if I’m wrong), then Tim, which, I love him as a character, but didn’t he date her in the mask for like, months, and I have some vague recollections of some dickish things he said (i know i know i need to read more comics)—whatever. Men are shitty.

I have a scene in my head. Like, Steph’s in college, at a bar with friends or something, maybe it’s an under cover op, idk, and there’s this girl she’s been lowkey watching all night. She doesn’t quite know why, but she just keeps catching her eye, and okay, it’s not like she’s never questioned her sexuality, she knows Cass. There have been Extensive conversations with Babs on the subject.

Anyway, so at some point, there’s obviously some sort of argument between the girl and the guy she came with and the girl’s crying, and Steph just Can’t Handle That.

She goes up to her, comforts her, makes a new friend, listens to the whole story.

And at some point, she has the thought.

“I could be a better boyfriend than him.”

She doesn’t necessarily do anything about it that night, but now that she’s had the thought, it won’t leave her alone.

Yeah. So. Maybe I’ll write that story later.

Song eight (last song): FRAGILE THINGS.

Dick Grayson part two; So your mentor (dad) just died, leaving you an angry murder child, another one hanging on by a thread after losing eighty percent of his support system, a grieving butler (grandfather), and a mantle the size of the Most Dangerous City in America. Any direction you move is going to hurt someone, and one kid is more likely to snap and murder people than the other, and hey, if you have to be Batman anyway, might as well let your brilliant kid brother be Nightwing, right? Except, whoops, you forgot to mention that last part and now Timmy thinks you just replaced him without telling him and fuck you knew you were forgetting something and now there’s a goddamned imposter Bruce and—

“Love is like a house of fragile things, where hearts can be broken as easy as antiques, and now there’s glass all shattered at my feet, what we built together, you left in smithereens.”

Anyway. This got kind of incoherent (or maybe it was from the start?)

I accidentally added a poll at the bottom and can’t figure out how to remove it, so.

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

AITA for cutting my dad out of my life?

My (30F) dad (58M) has been an alcoholic for pretty much my whole life. When I was a baby, my parents frequently couldn’t pay the rent or other bills because he was the sole earner and spent the majority of his money on alcohol. They fortunately were never evicted because of it, but they never really had any money and always had to borrow from relatives to get by.

My mum (56F) eventually divorced my dad when I was three, but she still tried to help him and for the most part, he has always been in my life. She has loaned him money over the years and has supported him when he has tried to access support for addiction (rehab, therapy, etc.) or all the times he has been hospitalised due to his drinking. He has attended rehab several times but it never seems to stick. Most times he has been back drinking within days of leaving. My mum has pretty severe depression already and has been suicidal in the past and stressing about him made her (and my) mental health much worse.

Fast-forward to about four years ago. My dad would come to mine and my mum’s house most days to offer to run errands and such. I was often in work and so, against her better judgement, she would give him her bank card to go and do shopping for her. He would always get a receipt but she never really checked her bank account to confirm what he was spending.

She eventually noticed that he was withdrawing cash most times she sent him shopping. When she added it up, it came to hundreds of pounds. This is in addition to money she had actually loaned him. One day she gave him my card to use instead, thinking that he wouldn’t steal from his own child. I checked my account whilst he was gone and saw that he had taken £5. It was only a small amount but it felt like such a betrayal for both my mum and me. We had tried to help him so much over the years, often at the cost of our own mental health, and now he had stolen from both of us. When he got back to our house, we confronted him and he admitted it. He was very apologetic and ashamed but I think my mum and I had both reached our limit. We asked him to leave and not come back.

Since then, I have messaged him on his birthday and Father’s Day. My mum and I have also occasionally contacted him to check he is okay. Beside this, we haven’t really had any other contact with him. However, it is clear that his health is very poor. He has another child (36M) who has told my mum and me that Dad is frequently in and out of hospital due to his drinking. However, neither of us can bring ourselves to get involved again, as every time we have tried to help, he doesn’t seem to be able to help himself and it has a major effect on our own well-being.

I do believe addiction is an illness that people should be supported through more than punished for, but I do feel we reached a point where we could do no more and he had to do some of the work himself. But I feel like one day, we’re going to hear that he’s passed away or is dying and feel like we should have more, or that I essentially abandoned a sick parent over £5. But I’m not sure what more we could have done.

AITA?

What are these acronyms?

[adder24]

Flowers for your hotdogs

A crossover fic with the Mentalist and Castle, since we never got the crossover of the centurary.

A/N: The timelines are not accurate I admit since I have mashed season 6 of the Mentalist with season 4 of Castle. I know I know but it's a bit of fun right?

Summary: Fed up of being restricted by the FBI, Jane makes a break for it while working a case in New York. He manages to throw the FBI off his scent but in doing so, he manages to bump into one of New York's finest detectives and a famous Author come consultant who both require Jane's expertise.

@profwonderbearthementalista @captkatecastle @untilthe12ofnever @nuggsmum @loops911 @nikki-rook @loops911 @hellostickerdoodle @myfriendtheurbanlegend @bonnie131313

Story below the cut

Chapter 1 - Damp Warehouses

When a dog is put on a short leash, it loses the ability to explore, to get acquainted with its surroundings and familiarise itself with the locals so to speak. It’s a tactic used to make a dog fall into line and a Tactic that the FBI were currently using on Jane. The problem was the more restrictions they put on him, the more Jane tested them and the trip to New York and being denied a Hot dog, was the breaking point.

He created a suitable distraction, by getting a suspect on a homicide to tell Kim Fischer she was going to inform the media, and while her and Lisbon ran after them, Jane decided to make a break for it, evading the other agents on the ground and blending in with the crowds of people around him. With his new found taste of freedom his first stop was a hot dog stand on the Manhattan side of Brooklyn bridge, next to the City hall park. Understandably there was a queue but eventually Jane reached the front of it and put in his order for a hot dog all the way.

A child like smile spread across his lips as he was given his hot dog, Jane made sure to pay the vendor generously, using the leftover change that he got from the disallowed hot dog earlier, but as he was about to take a bite, he sensed someone close by watching which was soon confirmed by an excitable sounding “Patrick Jane?!”

He turned his head to the voice and upon recognising the tall,stocky looking man coming towards him, he too got a little excitable.

“Richard Castle?!” He replied, chuckling when he saw the other man's Jaw drop and then turned to the woman standing next to him, the woman he could only assume would be the inspiration behind Nikki Heat. Kate Beckett.

“He knows me! Kate, he knows me!” Castle squeaks happily

“How can I not know you? The Derrick Storm novels and now The Nikki Heat stories? You’re pretty well known” Jane replied calmly as he took a bite from the hot dog and savoured the taste “I have been craving this all day”

“The man likes hot dogs too” Castle whispered as Kate gave him a look.

“A lot of people do Castle, now can you stop fangirling for five minutes and explain to me who Patrick Jane is” Kate replied firmly.

“He’s a Psychic!” Castle replied happily.

“No such thing as Psychic’s, more like an elaborate con artist” Patrick interjected with a smile

“A con artist?! You’re fangirling about a Con artist pretending to be a Psych-Wait hang on, Patrick Jane? The same Patrick Jane who’s fam-”

“Family was murdered by a serial killer! Yes, that Patrick Jane, I was trying to avoid bringing that up around him Kate but nevermind” Castle grumbled

“It’s okay…I have grown accustomed to it now.” Patrick replied as his smile fell a little. “Yes I am that Patrick Jane and yes I know you two are more than just Colleagues and I am guessing you’re trying very very hard to keep it a secret from those you work with”

Both Castle and Kate looked at him dumbstruck. They had literally only just met him and the man was already picking up on the fact they were an item and desperately trying to keep it hush hush.

“Oh he’s good!” Castle said a little too enthusiastically.

“Yeah, he’s a con artist Castle” Kate replied unimpressed, “He probably followed us-”

“Or I have a good read on people. Castle here, he’s like a Labrador, Excitable, always sees the world as his playground, can be tamed with food and is loyal to his family and those he loves but you Kate, you’re a little more complex. See you want to be like him but you lost someone very close to you and their death has given you a thirst for revenge, one that hasn’t been quenched yet but you have been tantalisingly close on a few occasions. And that drive, that quest you have set out in your mind, it’s what has closed you off a little from all the good things he sees in this world...You’re opposites but you need one another. You need him to help you lighten up and he needs you to ground him and reel him in a little, otherwise he becomes an untameable, bouncy labrador that humps all the furniture” Jane interrupted, watching their expressions as he accurately described them. “Am I close or do you still believe I followed you? A bit of a feat considering I crossed over from Brooklyn”

“I don’t hump furniture!” Castle blurts out, watching Jane as he takes another bite from his hot dog, chuckling.

Kate however was a little more shaken up. It felt like Jane had reached into her soul, pulled out her memories and was poking at them, seeing what kind of response he would get from her when he was able to discover her life story in mere seconds.

“How did you do that?” She asked him carefully

“Like I said, I just have a good read on people” Patrick replied casually as he finished off his hot dog.

"Right…come on Castle we got a case to work on" Kate says cautiously, watching Patrick closely.

"We do-wait, I got a brilliant idea" Castle replied, his voice filled with excitement.

"Oh no" Kate groaned.

"Oh no? What's Oh no?" Patrick asked, being his usual nosey self.

"Why don't we get Jane to help us solve the case quicker?! That's only if he hasn't got anywhere to go or isn't working" Castle suggested, watching the death glare form on Kate's face.

"Excellent idea, I'm not working on anything, I'm just here visiting" Patrick replied with as much eagerness as Castle.

"We can't just bring him into the precinct like a stray dog and hope Gates will let him work a case" Kate growled 

"Then like a stray dog, we sneak him in, tell her he's a witness or something." Castle replied

"You know the times where I hate you? This is one of them. He can tag along but there are rules." Kate said sternly 

"It's okay I'm house trained" Patrick interjected.

"Oh great, he's just as Snarky. Okay Patrick, rule one, you don't tell anyone what is going on between me and Rick, do and I lose my job. So unless you want me to use your inside as a football, I suggest you keep it quiet. Rule two you only read the suspects. Castle I don't want you encouraging him either" Kate said firmly giving the man that look "Rule three and the final rule, if you want a coffee…make it yourself"

"But I only drink tea" Patrick replied

"Then you should be fine" Kate said as they started to walk towards the car "You coming?"

“Absolutely!” Jane said with a beaming smile, chasing after them, eager to see how this dynamic partnership worked together.

The journey to the precinct was a bit of a whistle stop sightseeing tour for Patrick, he got to see the Empire State building, Times Square, a peek at the Chrysler building and a fleeting glance at lady liberty herself before they finally reached the precinct. Patrick got out of the car and took a moment to get himself acquainted before Castle showed him the way in and signed him in as a guest. They then made their way up to where the magic happened, a small area that was alive with the hustle and bustle of detectives working cases or acting on call outs. It felt a little like home for Patrick, reminding him of the CBI before it was disbanded.

“Do you have a couch?” Patrick finally asked

“Yeah in the family room…where we talk to the families, why?” Castle asked “Oh it’s just how I do my best work, laying on the couch, staring at the ceiling, listening to my environment. Something I asked from the FBI but they're not in the mood to bend and consequently I’m not doing my best work for them” Patrick replied, giving Castle a coy smile.

“You think Kate will buy it?” Castle asked him

“She will buy it if you are in on it, say ... .I tell you it’s a technique used to gather your thoughts, see clarity in your decisions and all you have to do is tell her it works”  Patrick suggested, knowing full well Castle was up for a bit of mischief making.

“I’m in!” Castle replied Defiantly 

“Excellent, show me the way to the family room and I will show you the magic” Patrick replied confidently

“Certainly and may I say, I like you, we’re going to get into so much trouble” Castle said happily.

“Oh we are, we really are” Patrick replied with a chuckle as Castle showed him to where the couch was kept.

Oddly enough, it was a similar one to the one Patrick grew accustomed to, only this one seemed a little more supportive. He sat down, bounced on it a few times before laying down on it to get a feel.

"Oh this is comfortable, I can work with this" Patrick said as a grin spread across his lips "Wanna give it a go on the other one Castle?"

Castle quickly looked around to make sure no one was looking in before he too took his place on the other couch, laying his 6 foot 2 frame across the cushions and letting out a contented groan.

"Oh yeah…I can see why you like this way of working" Castle said huskily 

"It's great, you can relax and let your brain unravel the case but what's even better, is you can listen better like this…you can hear everything going on, channelling in on the right conversations, picking up little nuggets here and there" Patrick says as he closes his eyes to tune his listening skills  "What's the case you're working on?" 

"A guy killed by a Zombie" Castle replied nonchalantly 

"You're joking right?" Patrick replied surprised 

"I'm not. We got video evidence. It's really cool but a little creepy!" Castle replied excitedly

"There is no such thing as Zombies. It's illogical for them to exist" Patrick replied calmly, knowing Castle will argue against him.

"Okay well I guess I'll have to show you the footage to make you believe" Castle replied.

"Guess you will" Patrick replied softly 

There was a moment's silence between the two men, both of them listening to their environment momentarily before Castle's curiosity got the better of them.

"You know how you freaked out Kate? Can you do that with me?" Castle asked "Just curious to know what you're psychic abilities picked up on me"

"Not psychic and I already did" Patrick replied as he turned to look at him "You ready to hear it?"

"Fire away" Was Castle's response, not truly prepared for what Patrick was about to say.

"On the outside you appear as this loveable guy that has a good sense of humour, wit and charm but on the inside you've experienced a lot of heartbreak, sensing your father was never around when you was born, that you took on the responsibility to be the man about the house, look after your mom, pay the bills and help keep a roof over your head." Patrick replied

".......I never told-"

"I'm not done" Patrick interrupted "You put on the playboy act after a broken heart by a childhood sweetheart, you didn't want your heart broken like that again so you played the field for a very long time…got married a couple of times and had a child. A daughter who is and always will be the apple of your eye. You're loyal, loving to your family and now you actually feel ready to have a serious relationship with someone, who I believe is Kate or Beckett as you call her at work. Problem is you love her but you still keep things from her and I can tell you, you need to be open with Kate, stop hiding behind the playboy act, lower your walls a little and just be you. You don't need to impress her Castle, she likes the man you are." 

Castle just stared at him, he was impressed by the man's skill, if somewhat a little uncomfortable by the man's accurate reading. Of course it did cross his mind that Patrick may have researched him beforehand but something was telling him that it was not the case, that somehow, Patrick leapt into his mind and relayed all that he saw before him.

"How far off was I?" Patrick asked

"Did you research me?" Castle asked

"Nope, didn't have time and didn't know I'd end up working alongside you." Patrick replied casually.

"Well for someone who hasn't done his homework, you got it spot on. You gotta teach me how to do it, it would be a cool thing to do at parties!" Castle responded enthusiastically.

"I'm not one to give out my trade secrets but as a tip, people give out visual clues all the time, you just need to know where to look and how to read it." Patrick replied with a smile.

"Kate can be my test subject" Castle replied thoughtfully

"Yes she can but don't be too obvious with it, try and be subtle" Patrick advised.

He then went on to spend ten minutes schooling Castle on how to subtly get a read on someone, reminding him to keep eye contact with someone but not make it uncomfortable, all before Kate burst into the room and stood in the doorway, a disapproving look on her face and her arms folded across her chest.

"She's upset" Castle said calmly

"Yeah it's quite obvious" Patrick replied

"Castle you asked to have this man work on the case and here you both are, laying on the couch, gossiping while I am out there busting my ass off trying to catch a lead" Kate said in frustration.

"This is how Patrick works, you lay on the couch and lis-"

"I don't care. Get your asses to my desk. Now!" Kate demanded, giving Patrick her trademark death glare "I don't care how you work, when you are under my command you do things my way. Are we clear Mr Jane?"

"Oh we're clear but you'll be surprised what you hear from the couch" Patrick replied in an annoyingly optimistic manner, hoping he could make Kate crack a little.

"Desk!" She snapped back at him as Castle hurriedly ran to get another seat setup at Kate's desk.

"But I don't know where you sit" Jane protested "And I still need a cup of tea"

"Tea can wait. Follow me if you know what's good for you" Kate replied.

Patrick shrugged his shoulders and followed her through the office, watching the people around him work and noting two detectives that were giving him a quizzical look as he passed them by. He then approached what he assumed to be Kate's desk and sat in the empty seat next to Castle, the man presenting Patrick with a cup of tea he had made for him.

"Did you put the water in, make sure the tea bag stewed a little and then the milk?" Patrick asked him.

"Yep, my mom knew this English guy who was very precious about the way his tea was made and he taught-"

"Guys. A little focus here" Kate said sternly

"I made him tea," Castle said proudly.

Kate rolled her eyes and shook her head before presenting Patrick with the file they were working on. Inside was the report on the body from Laney, pictures of the body and the crime scene and a few statements from those who attended the scene along with information gathered on the victim and a list of potential suspects.

"For someone to bite another human and leave behind a deep wound, they would need to be high or deranged" Patrick said as he continued to read the notes.

"Or a zombie,"  Castle interjected.

"You only ever bite someone if it's in self defence or…you're sexually aroused by it. This doesn't come across as either…was there any chemical residue left behind?" Patrick asked

"As a matter of fact there was, traces of a chemical found only in this specific Warehouse district downtown which is on the to do list" Kate replied as she studied Patrick "You thinking drugs are involved?"

"Could be, where's this Charlie fellow?" Patrick asked

"Down in holding, he believes he's going to turn into a zombie" Kate replied with a sarcastic tone in her voice.

"Ooof. Someone's been watching too many horror films. Can I speak to him? I want to know what person we're dealing with here" Patrick asked

"I'll take you to him, I would say take Castle but it'll only encourage his zombie fixation" Kate replied.

"Don't come running when he turns and hungers for your brainy goodness" Castle quipped as he started going over the files again.

"Nice tea by the way" Patrick said, raising his cup to him as he walked alongside Kate. 

They didn't speak much but Patrick could tell that this was a woman who was strong minded, stubborn and confident. He could see It in the way she walked, the way she commanded authority and kept her team in check but under that tough exterior he knew there was a soft spot, someone who was warm, caring and understanding. He just needed to gain her trust a little.

"Do you have a team you work with in the FBI?" Kate asked him finally.

"Yes…yes I do it's still being put together but all the right ingredients are there, it's just getting them to click into place" Patrick answered as they reached the holding cells and waited for someone to sign them in.

"I'm guessing you're an agent" Kate said as she began to fill in the forms.

"No actually, I'm a consultant like Castle I guess" Patrick replied. 

“So who’s lucky enough to have you as their pain in the ass?” Kate asked with a chuckle

“Theresa Lisbon, you’d get along, she has things she can teach you and you have things you can teach her” Patrick replied as he signed the forms where he needed to “We have worked with each other a while now, she’s the only one I truly trust when it comes to things close to my heart”

“Sounds like you have a soft spot for her” Kate says with a smile

“I’ve worked with her for years, of course I’m going to develop a soft spot for her” Patrick says defensively as Kate walks him into the maze of holding cells, every single one of them empty bar one, which was occupied by Charlie, tall man with short black hair, wearing a grey shirt, white tee and Black trousers. Sure enough, Patrick saw the bite mark on his arm, same as the one found on the victim.

“That is interesting!” Patrick says gleefully as he sits down on the floor, placing his cup of tea on the ground between his legs “Hey I’m Patrick Jane, I’m another consultant. Look I need to ask about the attack, smooth out a few details. Now according to Zombie lore, by now you would have turned and that wound on your arm would become a lot more redder and angrier, your veins would be purple and more to the surface and you would be clammy and sick looking, like you have the flu. None of that has happened so I think you’re still able to help me understand what happened to you and David.”

Charlie slowly looked at his arm and then back at Patrick, indicating for the man to carry on with what he has to say.

“I want you to close your eyes for me and slow your breathing down, breathe deep in through your nose, hold for three seconds and breathe out slowly. Can you do that for me?” Patrick asked

“Yeah ... .I can do that” Charlie replied as he slowly closed his eyes and followed Patrick’s instruction.

Patrick waited a couple of minutes, watching the man calm himself down and fall into some form of trance that made him a little more amicable and easy to coerce.  The perfect moment for Patrick to try and draw out some information they couldn’t get out from him while he was hysterical and focusing on his bite.

“I know the attack was quite violent and disturbing for you but I want you to try and remember that day for me, recall any smells or sounds that put you there, maybe there is a colour that reminds you of that day” Patrick says softly, watching the man relax.

“Glue….I could smell Glue….like latex glue” Charlie replied

“Okay that’s good. What else stood out to you?” Patrick asked him

“Rust and…staleness, no damp, the clothes smelt damp” Charlie replied

"Good and did you recognise this person who attacked both you and David?" Patrick asked.

"No idea they just…they came for us and then ran off" Charlie replied 

Patrick took a sip of his tea and looked at Kate with a smile.

"Rust and damp smelling clothes would fit warehouses, especially the leaky ones. But…I don't think our killer was of sound mind and I have a feeling, since Charlie here doesn't know them, is that they were hired to kill or maybe coerced" Patrick suggested before he clapped his hands, snapping Charlie out of his trance "Thanks Charlie you have been a big help"

Charlie blinked, confused and disorientated, unsure of what happened to him as Kate gave Patrick a perplexed look.

"Did you hypnotise him?"She asked

"No just calmed him down and made him more cooperative" Patrick replied with a smile as he got to his feet and picked up his tea from the floor “Castle makes a good cup of tea”

“I'm sure he will be thrilled to know” Kate replied as she walked with him out of the holding area. “Fancy having a walk around some of New York’s finest warehouses in the middle of the night?”

“Sure. I don’t sleep much anyway so maybe a walk around some Warehouses might make me sleepy” Patrick replied with a sarcastic tone and a cheeky smile on his lips.

“I’m guessing you have a hotel room for the night?” Kate asked as she started to sign them out 

“Err…not really I was just going to take a chance on luck” Patrick replied as he started to sign the documentation.

“Well Castle has a spare room or three you can make use of, I’m sure he would love to have you around” Kate replied as they made their way back to the bullpen 

“I’ll be sure to ask him” Patrick replied

Once they returned to Beckett’s desk, she started to put her plan into action. Her, Castle and Patrick would take a few warehouses within  Manhattan, while Ryan and Esposito took a few spots along the Hudson and of course they would move at night, usually the time where crime would be at its peak and they may catch a few breaks with some drug dealers that could potentially have a role to play within the case. So as soon as Darkness fell over the city, Beckett and her team got to work, Esposito and Ryan headed to their spots while Kate, Castle and Patrick went to theirs. Their first spot was a bust, nothing happening, no suspect behaviour or even drug dealers but the second spot, the second spot was interesting. There was steam and a creepy atmosphere around the place which oddly put a smile on Patrick's face.

“Oh this is deliciously creepy” Patrick said joyfully

“Even more reason to have your wits about you Patrick” Kate retorted as they walked through the grounds of this particular spot.

“Oh I have my wits about me, don’t you worry about that” Patrick replied as he marvelled at the spot, chuckling when he saw how on edge Castle was, despite the man trying to disguise it with the macho front he put on. Of course, it teased out Patrick’s mischievous side, he couldn’t help himself and when the right time presented itself, Patrick struck. He managed to find a discarded paper bag,collected air into it and popped it, the explosion loud and reverberated around the grounds of the warehouse. Castle must have lept twelve feet in the air, causing Patrick to laugh loudly before he realised Kate’s gun was trained on him and he flung his arms up in the air to show submission.

“Do that again and I’ll tell Lisbon personally why you came home with a hole in your body” Kate snapped.

But as Jane was about to reply with a witty comment, something caught his eye, something running frantically behind them.

“You might want to turn around” Jane said hurriedly

“If you’re tricking me, I swear-”

“I’m not tricking you! Turn around, there is someone running for their lives!” Patrick pleaded

Thankfully Castle saw it too, despite his nerves already being shredded by Patrick’s antics.

“Kate I think they need help” Castle said

Kate slowly took her eyes off Patrick and looked in the direction both men were looking in, sure enough there was a young woman emerging from the steam in the distance, sprinting towards them, horror etched on her face.

“Get out of here! They’re coming!” She screamed as she ran past them, Patrick watching her path as she ran by..

“Gotta admire a woman who can sprint in heels!” Patrick said before he then turned to look in the direction she came from and sure enough, emerging from the steam was a horde of people also running in fear.

“Okay what’s going on?!” Castle blurted out as he watched Patrick and Kate watched as these people ran past them screaming.

Then there was an eerie silence as the screaming died off into the distance. A moment for them to catch their breaths and try to figure out what had just happened. Patrick was about to speak before he noticed a crowd of slow moving people In the distance, people that stumbled over their feet, that had their hands outstretched. They could hear the distant growls and groans before they emerged from the shadows, coming from every direction. Patrick's eyes lit up in wonder while Castle appeared more panicked. He knew what this group of people were.

“We need to run!” He shouted

“Why?” Patrick asked, confused.

“Because if we don't they'll eat out brains, they're Zombies Patrick!” Castle replied

“.....Zombies? Well this should be Interesting” Patrick replied calmly.

“How are you calm?!” Castle yelled

“Err…I dunno, maybe I know the difference between fact and fiction” Patrick replied 

But the Zombie horde got closer and closer, Patrick fought  back the urge to yell out Lisbon's name as he became increasingly uncomfortable with the amount of people coming towards them, vacant, soulless eyes staring right at them. Unsettling, unnerving and creepy. Kate quickly drew her gun and stood her ground.

“CASTLE, PATRICK, GET BEHIND ME!” She yelled as she kept eyes on the horde.”This can’t be real…”

“WE’RE OUTNUMBERED!” Castle replied, panicked by the sight.

“Significantly! You don’t have enough bullets in that gun to hold them back,so I hope you got a plan, Detective” Patrick warned as he backed himself up against Castle

“Only one. Hold tight and be prepared to fight!” Kate ordered.

[dujour13]

Thanks for the tag @kaleido-scope-lady! 💕 This was highly appreciated for procrastination purposes.

Tag game: Give your KC’s first impression and final opinion of each of their companions!

Siavash's (not spoiler-free) hot takes:

First impressions

Seelah – A paladin with a party spirit. Now this is someone I can really get behind. (wink)

Camellia – Not even a smile? How about a little half-elf solidarity? ...Not that either? Give it time. I’ll find her angle. She can’t be as bad as she seems.

Lann – Weird combination, and not just the body parts. Pessimism and determination. Seems like a reliable guy and since that’s one thing I’m not, he’ll be good to have around. Also – perfect straight man for my routines.

Wenduag – Tough as Hell. I wish she didn’t beat Lann up about his idealism because that’s the one thing that might save him. I wonder if she has any idealism left to save herself.

Woljif – Dreamboat. I do look like the kinda guy that would work on, don’t I? He’s got my number already. …and he can have it.

Ember – Dreamer, this poor child. The things she says are so crazy they’re almost inspired.

Daeran – The folly of feudalism: exhibit one. Surprised nobody’s slapped him yet.

Nenio – Curious, for someone who knows so much trivia I don’t think she knows how funny she is.

Ulbrig – This towering barbarian calling me warchief is excellent for the bit

Galfrey – Exhibit two. No, that’s uncharitable. She’s had a lot on her plate, and for longer than most people could stomach. She needs to lighten up. Maybe I can show her running a crusade doesn’t have to be soul-crushing. It can be fun!

Sosiel – I think this kid is tougher than he seems, coming all the way here from Carpenden. I sure hope so, because I’d hate to see that freshness turn sour.

Regill – Who invited this guy?

Trever – This is what happens. Dreamer, don’t let it happen to me.

Arueshalae – This is one of those times when Desna tests you – gives your heart the choice of Cynosure or cynicism. I’m going to believe in her if it kills me.

Greybor – You know what, I’m just gonna prove him wrong. “Professional” doesn’t have to dress sober.

Aivu – Best. Friend. Forever.

Final opinion

Seelah – Biggest heart in the world. And after everything - party spirit intact. Dreamer I’m lucky I crossed paths with this woman. Wouldn’t have made it without her hugs. Well, also without her as body shield.

Camellia – How could I have been quite that blind? Only saw what I wanted to see. It’s hard to admit but I’m not sure there was anything that could have been done for her. For all his faults Horgus did try. Even setting her free to find her own way would have ended badly for her, because it wouldn’t have been freedom.

Lann – Love this guy. I’ll never forget that moment, seeing him look up at the starry sky and see possibility for the first time.

Wenduag – Ironic how trying to claw her way up is what brought her down. Probably because she never looked up far enough to see the stars.

Woljif – My love, forgive me if I ever doubted that your heart was stronger than your shadow.

Ember – What was it Lann said? A saint or insane, or maybe both? Both. She doesn’t believe mortals can save ourselves, so all we can do is be kind to each other. I have so much to learn from her.

Daeran – You know what I admire most? This man knows what he wants out of life – and fiercely, unapologetically pursues it. I count myself lucky that true friendship is one of those things because it turns out he's great fun and I'm surprised how fond of him I am now.

Nenio – I think she cited me in her entry on “Friendship.” By name. Sometimes I regret taking my pants off that one time. But actually no.

Ulbrig – I can really relate to having two more-or-less incompatible halves pulling opposite directions. I’m glad he let his guard down with me eventually because behind all the stubborn bluster the poor guy really felt lost, and commiserating with someone helped us both. Second only to Seelah for great hugs.

Galfrey – The best thing about her is her humanness. I wouldn’t like her nearly as much I do now if she hadn’t had indulged in a little spite. Just kinda wish it hadn’t been directed at me. No no, we're good. It's fine. Would you guess she can be surprisingly funny?

Sosiel – He did turn out to be tough. Strong enough to face terrible things, temper his idealism and still keep his heart. That portrait… (he starts to tear up) …if that’s how he sees me there’s no greater compliment.

Regill – The thing is, I trust him with my life. Because even if there’s a perfectly logical reason why he ought to kill me he’ll be three chess moves ahead with an even better reason not to. One thing I resent about the lawful types is the arrogance in thinking they’re following some universal order when it’s really just their heart all along. Yeah, you can tell him I said that.

Trever – When I visited the Vaenics in Carpenden after the war I saw him with his lathe, and as he worked there was such peace in his face and hands. Scarred as they are. He made me the most beautiful rosewood writing desk, a true work of art. There’s so much hope in that.

Arueshalae – One of the strongest people I’ve ever met. I have an idea what it’s like to try to keep your eyes fixed on an impossible star even with the claws of the Abyss pulling you under. Where we connect is that we both want to be better people, and to do that you sometimes have to look back and face what you’ve done wrong.

Greybor – Is he happier now? I like to think so. Being an assassin was easy for him. Being a father, not so much. He needed a new challenge.

Aivu – Best. Friend. Forever.

Tagging no pressure: @the-raging-tempest, @dragonologist-phd, @arendaes, @yunessa, @bite-the-bloody-hand

Everyone please take a free tag if you want one!

[imperial-russia]

Maybe I missed it because you already wrote about it, but what is your view of Catherine I, as a person? She is called The Great which of course alludes to her reign and prestige, but as a person later in life she doesn't strike me as particularly kind, especially to her son. In my view, what I have learned of her so farm is she held onto the throne for so long, rather than give it to her son at some point in his adult life. Wasn't he the rightful heir, considering Catherine herself admitted i writing he was legitimate and her husband's son, not one of her lovers? His first wife died and he grieved and to snap him out of it she told him how she cheated on him? I know he was separated from Catherine from birth but she had the chance to make their relationship count later and she just didn't seem to have understood him, at all, I'm being mild here. And he resented her too, which reflects in his choices when he became Tsar. I just think the succession would have been so much more smooth and thus good for the nation if their mother son relationship wasn't as bad as it was. It wasn't Pavels fault his father didn't have a good marriage to his mother.

I find it extremely tricky to judge a character of these bygone personalities because they are so complex and often have to make decisions none of us could face.

Personally, I think Catherine deserves to be admired for many things. She was ambitious, highly intelligent, passionate, and genuinely wanted to better life for the Russian people and further the country´s progress culturally, scientifically, diplomatically, and of course militarily. And all that, especially the military bit, came at the cost of the suffering of the anonymous crowds we know nothing about. But her achievements were undeniable and her legacy is one of the greatest Russia can boast about now.

She had lofty ideals and was at first very much determined to make them a reality, but even an Empress, especially in Russia at that time, cannot just change everything. Catherine´s power, especially in her early reign, depended on the noble families and she had to keep those on her side, so her ideals of ending the serfdom had to be postponed and were so indefinitely, etc.

Her family life was a mess though, from the very start. Her mother saw her only as a pawn for her own ambitions, eventually leaving Russia in disgrace and without even saying goodbye, Empress Elizabeth liked her in her own strange way, but there was never any closeness or true warmth between the two women. her marriage was an utter disaster and her children were all snatched away from her the moment they were born and she was hardly ever even allowed to see them. Catherine overcame her losses and personal tragedies because she decided to become something more. In fact, had she not decided to seize the power, she may have well been driven out of Russia or even killed herself.

And once her little palace revolt had been completed, she would simply not give up what she gained to her little son for several reasons. Firstly, he truly was just a child, unable to rule anyway. Secondly, after years of humiliation and fear, she was now in the position of being feared and respected. And finally, the Rolov brothers and their forces wanted her on the throne, not Pavel, and she was beholden to them.

I think Catherine grew to dislike and later truly despise her son only when he grew older and as she became an old woman herself, she got that trait of many old people who become more capricious, and selfish and believe their experiences make them, if not omnipotent, definitely better informed and cleverer than anyone else around. And she did things that were deliberately aimed at hurting Pavel, like denying him any responsibilities, instead of giving him some function at court and trying to groom him into an heir. Perhaps the worst thing she did was take away from him his eldest children in the same manner Empress Elizabeth had done to her. And allowing the rumour/information about Pavel´s paternity to simply go around was yet another attempt to hurt him. Personally, I tend to believe Pavel was the son of Peter III, based on the inherited personality traits and recently I have also come across a report that Nicholas II´s DNA tracing led to direct ancestors of Peter III. furthermore, Catherine probably hated Pavel ALSO based on the fact he was, in many ways, like her husband. I imagine had he been as pretty and gallant as her lover Saltykov, it would have been a different story.

Pavel was so very different from Catherine and in opposition to her so vocally, that she was also afraid he would run to the ground everything she had built. And that was simply unthinkable.

Catherine could be generous and caring, but as a woman in a very unique position, a woman who controlled an immense empire and had a say and care about every aspect of it, she had to make (and made) many decisions which naturally we today find cruel, unjust and selfish. To be an effective leader, you cannot rule as an angel, unless your subjects, ministers, family members, and other monarchs, are also angels. What matters most is, eventually, what remains when you are gone.

Catherine had given much to too many people not to be remembered, if not kindly, than with respect. She was not a good mother to her son at all, but she was more successful with her grandsons, and she was especially successful in the role of the mother of the nation.

[team5ds]

with you i serve, with you i fall down

Summary: some things you just can't speak about... only 20 minutes to sleep, but you dream of some epiphany. just one single glimpse of relief.

Rating: T

Ships: Link/Zelda

Author’s note: awakening for @sapphic-september. cw for ptsd. and with this... the entire month is done! thank you so much for joining me on this journey. onwards we go!

read on ao3 / support me on kofi (battle city & up supporters get early access) / join my discord (18+)

Hyrule was on the horizon, and she was coming home. The shift of the land had changed since her victory at the castle, restoring the king back to his throne. Zelda had become her closest ally - something that was difficult to wrap her head around. Her younger self would've never pictured herself as the warrior that she would turn into. When Link had admitted to her that she needed a moment to leave, the princess had been nothing but supportive. Eventually, she knew she had to come home. Every adventure, every scar, and she was returning a changed woman. She wasn't the same person, and she didn't know how Zelda would react to that. To her great surprise, she was waiting on the beach for her in a plain dress with no signs of regalia adorning her hair. The wind blew around her, and Link couldn't help but smile when she saw her.

The boat pulled into the pier and she took a moment to dock it, tying the ropes with the expertise she'd gain from her travels. Zelda didn't wait for her to get down from the docks. "How was your journey?"

It was such a simple question, and yet she didn't know where to begin. Did she begin with the Wind Fish and her journey through Kohlint to wake the beast or did she begin with her travels through Labrynna and Holodrum? Zelda had partially been there for it, but she still didn't know the full extent of it. Link could remember how the princess looked asleep on the altar where Twinrova had threatened to sacrifice her to bring back the Demon King. She didn't know how Zelda got back home. Either way, Link shrugged. "I understand myself better now," she said, glancing over at the princess. "We should head back to the castle."

"Right," Zelda said softly. She bowed her head - something she did only when she was hiding something from her. Link steeled herself, wondering if she would just have to expect a battle just around every corner. But then she looked up, a smile on her face with a twinkle in her eyes. It just hit Link that while she aged up, so did Zelda. She was no longer the young girl that was kidnapped by Ganon, and Link was no longer the scared child trying to save her uncle. "Did you ever find the Oracles? Are Din and Nayru with you?"

Link nodded, moving to the other side of the boat to knock on the door. The princess had distracted her from completing the task at hand. "Din, Nayru, we've arrived," she said. "Zelda is waiting for us to get to the castle."

The castle had been a distant memory for Link. Hyrule Castle towered over the entire region, and she'd thought that because she'd gotten taller, perhaps it wouldn't feel like it was going to swallow her. Instead, every crevice of the building still felt like it was overgrown and wild - like it hide secrets behind every wall. She had no interest in finding out what it was hiding. She wanted to maintain her sanity tonight. Zelda was safe, and yet it didn't feel like it. It felt like she was supposed to be ready to fight for her life at any given moment. The soldiers smiled at her, and she nearly reached for her sword - she still remembered them fighting her in hopes that she'd die. They didn't remember being Ganon's puppets, but she remembered.

Zelda didn't glance at the soldiers, and Link wondered if she remembered it too. She'd been a young girl imprisoned in her own castle, her own home. How had the princess just return to it like nothing had happened? She'd wanted to run far away from home, putting as much distance between herself and Hyrule, when her uncle had come back. Nothing about him had been wrong, per say, it was just the uncanny feeling of knowing she saw him bled out in the castle's sewers. How did someone consolidate that with the living, breathing man that was back in her home? She didn't know, and she didn't care. All she knew is she'd rather take her chances with the boat again.

Did Zelda have the same nightmares she did? She wondered when the last time the princess had slept, if the bags under her eyes were anything to go by. She had the same ones, admittedly. She couldn't judge. The Oracles had been given room and board in the castle, with an assurance that they'd be safe here. Link wasn't sure how Zelda could make that promise without flinching. After all, it had been within these walls that Link had fought for her life. Ganon had breached it before as the King's advisor. Link couldn't help but notice that there was no longer a royal advisor position. Zelda had mentioned the position had been abolished, and she wondered the long reaching impacts that could have. Insular royalty didn't seem to be that much better of an idea.

Where the princess was leading her, she wasn't sure. All she knew was that she wasn't going to take her eyes off the princess. The risk was too great. Would someone steal her away again? Link thought about Marin, and her long red hair as she stared at the princess's own strawberry blonde hair. The flashes of Marin versus Zelda, and it slowly sunk in that the Wind Fish had said the dream had been influenced by Link's own memories. The memory of the princess standing in front of him, and how she was a version of Zelda that she'd never seen before.

As she led Link up a spiral staircase, Link wondered if there was ever a chance to see the princess that was unburdened by life. She'd never had a normal life, and that wasn't entirely her fault, was it? She'd been born into this life. Ganon had gone after her for powers that she'd only just barely gained control of. The confession that she hadn't known she had any of those powers lingered at the back of Link's mind. Had she worked further on those powers? Link's hand was gripped tight on the sword at her hip, suddenly nervous by the lack of explanation that Zelda had given. Where were they going?

They reached a door, and Zelda led Link into a... bedroom? The room was spacious, with an oversized bed with a flowing canopy covering it. Shelves of books lined the walls, and it slowly sunk in that this was the princess's own room. She sat at a table that had a mirror in front of it, and somehow Link was reminded of the mirror that could take her into the Dark World. She irrationally wanted to tell her to step away from the mirror so she could break it. It was an odd feeling, and she swallowed it. "I don't trust the guards," Zelda admitted, as if she was casually suggesting what they should eat for dinner tonight. "I trust you, however. I want you to become my full time guard. I already suggested this to father, and he agreed it was a good idea to keep you around. We would pay for this service, of course, as well as provide you room and board here in the castle so you may stay close to me."

The request was so simple that it nearly knocked Link off her feet. The more she sat with this request, the more she understood why the princess would not trust the guards. Even though they were friendly now, they both had seen them ruthlessly attack Link with a desperation to have her killed. And she could understand why Zelda would consider Link the best chance at survival in a situation should the guards turn on her again. "Of course, ma'am," Link said, bowing to her. "I would be happy to serve my country again per your request, ma'am."

Zelda giggled at this. "Oh come on, Link, no need for formalities when it's just us," she said with a bright grin. Suddenly Link flashed back to Kohlint where she was standing in front of Marin - the smile was exactly the same. "You can call me Zelda if you'd prefer. And... don't worry about answering right away. You can think on this as long as you need. Instead of answering right away... come over here. Tell me what you saw in Labrynna and Holodrum. I want to know everything."

Zelda's eyes widened as she took in the story that Link told her, and over the course of the discussion, Zelda admitted that before Ganon had stolen her away, she'd never left the castle before. Twinrova's kidnapping of her had been the first and only time she'd been past the borders of the country. The idea of getting to leave and travel far away was a strange one to her, and she envied Link's freedom. A princess who was next in line for a throne couldn't just up and leave. All of the stories passed down had a strict definition of what Zelda was supposed to be, down to her name. She almost felt guilty about asking Link to stay with her - almost. She was her hero, and for that reason, the princess felt like she had at least the right to ask her to stay. Every second that passed, her hero grew bolder by getting ever so closer to her.

When Link had taken off to Labrynna and Holdrum in search of the Oracles per her request, she'd been little more than a girl - just like her, really. And yet she'd returned covered in fresh new scars, with a new sort of ruggedness to her. Like her, she'd aged into a full fledged woman that had so much more knowledge of the world around them. She was a warrior, and Zelda would entrust her life in her hands twice over if she had to. No one was more capable than he, and she reached out to take her hand in hers. She could feel every callous in the palm of her hand, every raised scar, and it took so much courage to look into her eyes. Big blue eyes were already staring at her, and there was a similar trust for her in them yet... there was something else in them.

Both of them had walked through hell and back to be sitting in her bedroom in a peaceful Hyrule. Here she sat, wondering if she had any right to claim this warrior for herself. Surely after everything she'd been through... she had least earned the right to choose if she should leave behind this life entirely. When she had sent Link away, she had anticipated that Link would leave soon after delivering the Oracles. She still suspected that she might. Every single moment that passed, she anticipated that her swordswoman would decide her duty was done and leave. Instead, her other rough, battle scarred hand gently cupped her cheek, and Zelda leaned into the touch. How many lives had they lived? If the stories were to be believed, this was inevitable. Did that mean they lacked any free will in this moment? She didn't know the answer, and she didn't want to know the answer. If this was just fate, then at least it owed her this kindness after everything she'd been through.

Then again... was anyone owed anything? Her thoughts were at war as Link demonstrated her courage by making the first move - her lips were captured in a sure kiss that said everything that could've been said. With it, Zelda knew that she wasn't going anywhere. With safety promised and a bright future for Hyrule ahead of them, she allowed herself to sink into this moment. She could picture their future in her head, and she smiled into the kiss. She was eager to lay her claim where it belong - her swordswoman, forevermore.

[chaotic-starlight24]

Night, Laughter, and a Sword Chapter 4

Summary: Tallulah has a moment with Luke and the stars. And makes a big decision for the good of the children of Nyx.

Pre-TLT

Word count: 1.6k

Warnings: None really, just some fluff and description of a nightmare sort of

Sorry for taking a little while and releasing it randomly! I've been busy

Previous~Next

Tallulah slowly blinked her eyes open. Moonlight shone through the main window and lit up the room. She pushed herself up onto her elbows and took a deep breath. Something made her feel much more calm at night. Something felt freeing about the darkness. Knowing it stretched everywhere and covered everything. Until something lit it up that was. She sat up against the wall and enjoyed the silence. But then she noticed some weird grunting noise. And panicked breathing.

Her eyes drifted around the room, silently laughing at Alex’s weird position, until they landed on Luke. His blanket was kicked off the bed and he was tossing and turning. His forehead was drenched in sweat. He was whispering at something, his hand drifting up to his scar. So Tallulah nimbly tiptoed towards the edge of his bed. Avoiding the campers strewn around the floor. She could see why Luke was so stressed out with his responsibilities. She hadn’t known him for very long, but she had noticed how he was constantly on his feet. Always in charge of sword training. Always attempting to tidy up the cabin, not that it worked. Always worrying about the new kids. She reached him and stopped. Everyone was still sleeping as it was midnight meaning she couldn’t make much noise. So she gently shook him awake. It took a few tries but he eventually looked up at her.

“Tallulah?” 

“Yeah, it’s me.”

“Need s’mthig?”

“No, just checking on you. You were having a nightmare or something?”

Luke stretched and sat up, “Yeah. But I’m used to it.”

“You don’t seem used to it…”

He shrugged and traced a finger down his scar, “It’s because of a-um-quest this year…”

Tallulah noticed he obviously didn’t want to talk about it and slowly led him to the window.

“I think you need a distraction.”

“Thanks, LaFlamme. I ‘preciate it.”

She softly smiled and sat down. She could name just about every constellation. They each had a different story. Luke eased down next to her and looked at the stars as well.

“I could never understand this.” He admitted.

“Huh?”

“The patterns in the stars. There’s so many of them! I can’t remember them all.” He answered, rubbing the back of his neck.

“Well, there’s of course the zodiacs. They each represent important parts of myth.”

Luke nodded as she pointed out a couple.

“There’s Andromeda! It’s one of my favorites. She was saved from sacrifice by Perseus!”

“Cassiopeia is there!”

“Centarus is real big! It’s right over there!”

Tallulah kept rambling on and Luke kept intently listening. She didn’t notice how his gaze kept on her. (THAT’S RIGHT READERS! WE GOT A SLOWBURN!)

“They’re all beautiful. Maybe you could tell me their stories later.” Luke whispered.

Tallulah blushed. Not many people understood her love for stars. But they were all so mighty and full of fiery power. Yet they only left a small glow on the Earth. Millions of light-years away.

Luke let out a gasp. Even more light shined through the cabin, waking up all the campers. Tallulah looked up. A purple and white symbol of a star and crescent moon floated above her. Several campers stared in awe. Then it disappeared. 

“You’re a child of Nyx…” Luke declared with a sad smile.

Tallulah had no idea what to think or say or do. Her mother had just claimed her. What was she supposed to do now?! Several campers came up to her and congratulated her and announced they were also children of Nyx. Most were ranging in the ages of 9-13. But Tallulah honestly felt bad. Now she was just another camper Luke would have to worry about. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw another Hermes boy (Chris? Connor?) comfort Luke. He was just staring at her with glassy eyes. His fingers running up and down his scar. Alex softly patted her on the back.

“I-I’m sorry.” Tallulah apologized, her voice barely audible.

“It’s not your fault… He just has some issues with his dad…”

Those few words made her form a plan in her mind. Maybe a risky one, but a plan nonetheless. In the morning, she would enact it. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“I need to talk to Chiron.” Talulah stated at breakfast. 

Alex glanced at her, “Not gonna ask why, but you might as well run by what you’re going to say to me.”

“No, you’ll just try to stop me.”

Alex shrugged, “That doesn’t make me feel better but you do you. He’s probably at the big house.”

Tallulah nodded with determination and quickly scarfed down her food. Then she immediately strided off. But she didn’t notice Luke trailing after her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Taylor Lafree is here!” Mr. D called out.

Tallulah bit her tongue, now wasn’t the time for sass. She needed Chiron to accept this request. For the sanity of Luke. 

“Ah! Tallulah, what may I do for you?” Chiron bellowed as he made his way over the deck.

“I was claimed last night.”

“Oh! What cabin?”

“Nyx…”

“Ah so no real ca-”

“That’s what I came to talk about.” She cut him off.

She took a deep breath before starting again. Chiron gave her a surprised look, curious as to how she would continue.

“I think we should get a new cabin.” She started slowly, “Since there are plenty of Hypnos and Nyx kids. I can even be a counselor if needed! I just want to lessen the strain on Luke.”

Chiron raised an eyebrow, “That is a very large request. But I see your reasoning.”

Tallulah nodded. Maybe he would hear her out.

“But I believe Luke is handling himself quite well.”

Tallulah grimaced. How could they not see him struggling?! She had been there for 4 days now and she could already tell!

“I don’t wish to be disrespectful but he is only 17. Yet he is supposed to care for like 35 kids?! Also sword training! And normal camper duties?!”

“Well the other counselors-”

“DON’T HAVE TO CARE FOR AS MANY KIDS!”

Chiron sighed, “Alright, Alright. Just because of how many kids there are and because of your insistence I will agree. But you have to help design it. Luke and the other counselors will help train you”

Tallulah grinned and agreed quickly. She walked off satisfied. 

“Wow, you care a lot, LaFlamme.”

Tallulah spun around to see Luke leaning against a building. 

“Well, I also care about my siblings. They deserve a little bit of privacy. And the ability to stargaze without getting eaten.” She shrugged. 

She didn’t want to admit that she cared about him. They were just friends and it was going to stay that way. 

Luke handed her a crumpled list, “Here is a list of your new responsibilities. They can be a bit overwhelming at first but you’ll get used to them.”

“Oh please, I rode a moose once!”

“You wh?!– nevermind that has nothing to do with this. How about we tell the other campers about this.”

Tallulah shook her head, she didn’t want a whole lot of attention.But Luke just dragged her back to the cabins and began to pull her up onto a table.

“Attention children of Nyx and Hypnos!” a handful of campers turned their heads to Luke, “I want you to meet your new counselor!”

Silence ensued. Tallulah felt her face burning in embarrassment. But she needed confidence to win them over.

“To help lessen the strain on your favorite counselor, Castellan here, I’ve decided to take over for Nyx and Hypnos kids. I know I’m relatively new to this camp but I am the oldest and I am willing to put in the work. I also am creating this cabin to give you kids a chance to stargaze without becoming a snack for harpies.” She earned a couple giggles from the campers. 

Public speaking came quite easily to Tallulah but that gave her more encouragement. After her “speech” of sorts, a smaller girl came up to her. She looked about 11 and had long black braids. There was a fierce look in her eyes, almost like an Ares kid. But also a gaze that gave a sense of knowing.

“Hi, I’m Annabeth. I see Luke has taken to introducing you to the camp.” She started, gesturing to Luke, “I trust that he hasn’t bothered you too much?”

Tallulah rolled her eyes but smiled, “He’s Castellan, always a bit annoying.”

Annabeth shot a sharp glance at Luke and muttered something along the lines of, “Nicknames already?”

Luke’s cheeks turned rosy and he folded his arms, “LaFl-Tallulah! I’ve just made sure she’s not alone!”

“Hey! She has me, Lou, and Mae!” A voice sounded from the tree. 

Alex flipped down to the ground with grace, landing with a spiderman pose. Lou-Ann also appeared from behind.

“Mae was working on a Demeter kid at the infirmary so she couldn’t come to our dramatic entrance.” Lou-Ann dramatically sighed. 

Tallulah darted her eyes between them all, “So why the sudden group meeting?”

“Well we heard about your brave decision to become a counselor for the Nyx and Hypnos kids!”

“And I just haven’t met you before, even though Luke has been taking care of you.”

“I know, I know… Maybe it was a stupid decision… But something is just telling me I need to do this. I truly want to help these kids.”

“I know you will! I have all the info you need on the Hypnos kids and Nyx kids. They can have some interesting issues of sorts. Like falling asleep anywhere!”

Alex and Lou smirked at each other. Luke seemed extremely eager to help her. But Tallulah would take all the help she could get.