#and with that i'll disappear again it's late heh

[thehealerhairpin]

[kittykitcat77]

Third Soul AU- What Used to Be

[PREVIOUS] [NEXT]

You and Sans walk forward. You keep watching the "puzzle" as you two approach it. It was a mostly clear slab of stone, slightly leveled above the rest of the ground. It also had thin wiring in different directions throughout the slab, several little paths mapped out.

(here we are.)

You walk over to it, seeing where the entrance had been marked with a little sticker on the slab. You then see a blue orb on the ground. You pick it up, holding it in your hands. It was cold, and it had wires within it too. You turn to Sans, who walks up and notices that you had it. He looks down at the misshapen sphere before looking at you.

(oh. it's still here. cool.)

You are slightly confused but decide not to question it. Maybe it's part of the puzzle? You hold it and take a small step forward. You thankfully didn't step on a wire, not wanting to know what would happen if you did. Suddenly, Sans grabs your shirt and pulls you back slightly. He then looks at you.

(woah, woah, kiddo. careful there.)

You turn around to face the skeleton. He then steps onto the stone platform himself.

(i'll go first. i know this puzzle like the back of my hand. i was there when it was built, after all.) You decide to trust Sans on this. He has been so helpful to you, and you couldn't help but appreciate it. You could realize that the disappearance of his brother probably made him down, but he had a bit of kindness in his heart to help you. Did he even have a heart? or organs? You decide to stop thinking about the idea. Your gaze follows from his feet to the red cloth situated around his neck. It was an old wrinkly red scarf, obviously too small for Sans. It also looked dirty, like it hadn't been worn in a while. You then look down at the poster in your hands again. It was the same shade of red that Papyrus was wearing in the photo, except smaller. You shove the poster in your pocket, watching Sans' movements again. The orb you picked up, which was only in one of your hands, started to slip. You put in both of your hands, curious on what it was for. Something for the puzzle, maybe? You and Sans reach the end of the maze, with Sans stepping off the platform first. You follow and step back onto the soft snow. Sans turned over to face you. He noticed you were still holding the blue orb. He then chuckled very quietly.

(you know... that was going to shock you if you messed up. just saying.) That causes you to drop it in surprise. Sans gives you a rather cheeky smile, which didn't feel as strong when his eye sockets still had the tired expression in them.

(heh. pretty shocking news, huh? it's over, so don't worry about it.) You couldn't help but huff. Not only at the attempt at a joke, but at the fact Sans waited until after to tell you. All he could do was shrug. He then resumed walking, and you quickly jog to catch up with him.

As the two of you walk, you couldn't help but grow curious again. You want to ask questions about Papyrus, he seemed like an interesting monster. You also didn't want to push Sans; he was being nice to you, and you did not want to mess that up. Not that you had many other allies down here in this foreign land. Your hand subconsciously lands on your pants pocket, where you had shoved the missing poster. You look up and study Sans' expression for a bit. You two meet eyes for a split second, and you look down. It was a little too late, and now Sans was slightly onto you. Hopefully he didn't find you too weird. You and Sans walk by a rather sad rabbit-like ice cream vendor. You look at the vendor before looking back up at Sans. He seemed to understand what you wanted without you having to say a word. He motioned for you to stay there while he walked up to the vendor.

As Sans talked to him, you rocked your feet. You looked at the bridge, and then at what was beyond it. You walk over to the edge of the bridge, despite Sans' suggestion. You see an unusually round ice ball, stationary on top of an ice formation. At the end of the ice formation, you could swear you saw a little hole in the ice. Was it a game or another puzzle, perhaps? You want to go see it, but you hesitate. You'll wait for Sans first, you don't want to be attacked or anything. Then, almost by comedic cue, he walked up, his voice startling you slightly.

(there you are, kiddo. did you teleport or something?)

You turn around, finding his tease a little funny. You then notice him holding two ice cream cones, both strawberry. At least you think it is. Sans hands you one, and you take it in your hand. It's cold outside, so it looks utterly ridiculous to have ice cream. You couldn't help it! You take a lick at it, finding a flavor you didn't expect- or even recognize. It didn't taste like anything you've ever had before. In a way, it still tasted good. You and Sans then cross the bridge, eating the ice cream. You stop at the little ice ball, causing Sans to pause. You ask him what it's for, and he looks down at it too.

(it's a ball game. you roll the ball over to the hole over there. you can't let it leave the ice. that's cheating.) You kick the ice ball slightly, letting it roll just a bit. Sans' face seemed to fall a little bit.

(when me and papyrus first moved here... he loved this game. it's what inspired him to make puzzles.)

You couldn't help but feel bad. You then had an idea. You walk over to the ice ball. You then kick it to Sans, who is very surprised that you did. He seems hesitant to join at first, but you insist. He then shrugged and kicked the ice ball. He got it a good distance, all without touching the ice. You start to feel excited, and you don't know why. You walk over to the ice ball and kick it again. It almost breaches the edge of the ice, but Sans uses his magic last second to save it and push it a bit further. You chase after it, ice cream cone still clutched in hand. Then, you kick it again and make it into the hole. A purple flag pops up out of the hole. You turn to Sans, a smile on your face. Sans seemed to stare at you oddly for a second but then gave you a thumbs up. You smile, and then you lick at your ice cream again as Sans walked over to your spot. He then takes your hand like a parent would their child. He begins to walk, bringing you along. You figure it's a parental instinct of some sort, maybe since you nearly walked off on him. Either that or he's compensating. He lost his brother, and you're the next younger thing to walk in his path. You let him; he isn't hurting anyone.

[neongalaxiie]

Hello, i just found you and I wanted to tell you, i love your work so far! If you are interested, could you please write something about supervillain having suspicions that villain joined heroes? I would love to see your take on it! Thank you and take care <3

Villain unclipped their cape, laying it over the back of the chair, and huffed a short breath. Tired, they were so tired. It had been a long day, and they were so glad to just be back at the lair so they can relax.

"Ah, Villain," came Supervillain's voice from the kitchen. They rounded the corner, eating from a bag of chips. A loud crunch. "Glad you're finally back."

"Heh, yeah, me too." Villain sighed, leaning over the top of the chair and closed their eyes. So tired, ever since that thing...

That thing.

Supervillain neared Villain, the crinkling of the snack bag the only sign of their approach. Supervillain snapped their fingers and the bag disappeared with a pop.

Supervillain placed a hand on the small of Villain's back, drawing a shudder from the other. Villain raised themself back up to meet Supervillain's gaze. Supervillain cocked their head, examining Villain with a hum.

"You've been staying out later recently," Supervillain noted. "You've always been coming back so tired. Is there any particular reason why?"

Villain drew in a sharp breath. "Not any that I've noticed," they said carefully. "Perhaps I've just been working myself harder lately."

Supervillain just kept staring at Villain, no change in their demeanor. Villain found the constant eye contact rather oppressive, and their gaze instinctively flicked over to the side before landing on the supervillain's.

After that, the supervillain spoke. "It sounds to me—" They grasped the villain's chin and turned it toward them. "—like you're trying to convince yourself as much as me." Their expression hardened, and the villain's breath hitched, eyes widening.

"W-what do you mean?" Gosh, that was the wrong thing to say.

The supervillain straightened, their lips tightening a fraction. "You think I don't know?"

The villain swallowed and licked their lips. Know what? Another wrong thing to say, but all other responses vanished from their mind.

The supervillain made a noise of disappointment, which drew another wave of anxiety over Villain. They took a shaky step back, wary of their boss. A flick of Supervillain's wrist, and Villain slammed against the wall. Supervillain pinned them there with their hands, growling in Villain's face.

"How long, Villain? How long has this been going on?"

"I don't know—" what you're talking about? What were they thinking?

Supervillain scowled, pressing harder with their power. The metallic wall behind Villain buckled. "Don't make me ask again."

"A— a few months... I think..." More incrimination.

Supervillain hummed in acknowledgment. "Coincidently, that's about the same time I stopped receiving frequent updates and actual progress from you."

Villain's eyesbrows twitched. "Haven't I... given you updates?"

"No, only promises of progress, which reminds me—"

Supervillain drew closer, almost closing the gap between their faces. "What are the heroes planning?"

Villain's eyes widened almost imperceptibly. Their gaze briefly shifted to the ground. "Oh, um, well, it's not anything... that important. Restoration projects and stuff."

Villain's previous scowl shifted into a sort of dangerous smile, which unsettled Villain even more. "Oh, come on, Villain. You can do better than that. You were telling me all these months you're working on something big."

Villain just stared in fear at Supervillain, who waited a few beats before straightening, giving Villain room to breath. "But, no matter," the stronger villain continued, turning away with a dismissive wave of their hand. "I've got plenty of time to draw that information out of you, and with your priceless connection to the heroes—"

Supervillain turned back, their smile becoming darker, more predatory. "—I'll be able to take them down once and for all."

[wondergotten-concepts]

[[Turbø's interactions with øthers characters]]

(Long text in the below)

About King Candy:

"King Candy, or Candy I go by his name was the very trustworthy person I had in my life. Never expected he was so friendly to me at first, not everyone can be like him though. He always so happy and looks innocent, never seen if he's sad or angry. But sometimes what I remember, he and I were the same person...?一I guess I don't know, my memory still fuzzy.. hope if there's other way I can find to jog my memory. But hey on the bright side, he does always cared about me a lot just like I'm being his brother一as long that I care about him just to keep him safe from dangers.."

About the Twins:

"I remember about them being my rivals, they mess with me and I mess them back. Though, I can't even tell which one is the meanie and the other is the opposite, because they had the same outfits back in the past! Well, I saw the newspaper lately, as soon the magician twins can be possibly those two. Maybe there is a chance they can jog my memory back, but I don't know where exactly is Steamy Skyland or what that is.. You know, maybe I should be sorry for what I did, leaving them dead behind. But they would be not forgive me, I guess.."

About Cruella de vil:

"'She's one of the most popular tailor in Wondergotten', that's what Zippy said to me. Although, most people that has been interact with her often calls her Ella. She's always talks about dress this, fashion that, and even... use animal's fur as her new coat.. oh boy, talk about a deep, dark story she told me about the last time my first interact with her.. I'd rather not telling me THAT one一it stills traumatised me.."

About Dr. Facilier:

"Facilier was very一interesting to me. I mean, the first time at the court meeting or whatever it is, he showed up right behind me, I almost got a heart attack. The last time I see him wearing a skull mask, later after that he disappeared. Huh, weird一but suddenly, he appeared after I was getting carried by his meanie shadow then goea to him out from the library, seriously I just got that book in the first place! Anyway speaking about him, he always giving me information about in the book I had, I think it's called一Tarot of rules... it may be confused me but I still want to learn about it. I kept wondering why is he doesn't want to talk about his life in this world before I was here, even Candy doesn't know about him. Maybe some sort of character's mysterious past..? I'll figure it out with that later."

About Jack Horner:

"UGH... Him. He always be a troublemaker and pulls a prank on me. I mean hellooo一I'm a newcomer here you dumbo tiny legs! Hmmm, you know maybe if I get a chance to pull a prank on him would be called a 'payback'.. hehehe��Also I think Candy talks to me about him that he always promise making pie or cupcakes for him, huh一guess Candy was getting along with him I guess which I don't. On the other hand that reminds me, I didn't know he was great at cooking."

About Orson:

"Woah woah wait, you want me to talk about that guy?? Well, heh... I may or may not rather talk about him. Soooo umm, how should I put a word... unhinged?一Look, I've been fought that big crazy bugaboo in his bossfight and it was NOT Turbo-tastically OKAY! I tried to avoid him that I don't want to interact with so please don't ask me about him ONCE AGAIN一Thank you.-"

[crystalsnow95z]

Hoseok with a nasty cold but he tries to hide it and stifles his sneezes

Okay okay this is the third time I restarted this.. I know what I want but I'm struggling to write it. >.<

I'm semi happy with it, but I'll let you guys decide if it's good..

"Hehitch...!" J-hope sits up, looking around the room trying to find what woke him. "Hehtichih!" Another sneeze gave him his answer. He started feeling sick yesterday,sniffling thoughout practice,running out of energy halfway through. Luckily over the music the others didn't notice.

It's gotten worse..

J-hope sighs, looking for a tissue to blow his nose. "It wasn't this bad yesterday..this isn't good, we're doing the jacket shoot today.."

He blows his nose, only irritating it further, the itch returning. "Hehitchugh..." J-hope wipes his nose with the tissue, checking the time.

It's only 4:40.. I don't have to be up to go until 6..

J-hope gets up as quietly as he can, searching for medicine, but his search comes up empty. He sighs. Guess I'm going to the store..

He still felt exhausted, but the sooner he took care of it, the better. He bundled up warmly despite it being late spring, putting on a fuzzy sweater, blue jeans, and a white beanie.

"Where are you going...?"

J-hope jumps when he hears the sleepy voice of Jimin blinking up at him slowly from his bed.

"I can't sleep.. I'm nervous about the shoot, so I was going to go for a walk to clear my head.." J-hope keeps his voice soft to try to hide the congested sound, and thankfully, it worked.

Jimin turns over. "Okay.. be careful.." he replies with a yawn, sleepiness taking over his words coming out slow as he driftd off again. "Don't tire yourself out. We'll be working all day.."

"I won't." J-hope quickly leaves the room when he feels a tickle in his throat, waiting until he leaves the building to cough.

That was close..

J-hope hardly makes it around the block before he feels the irritated itch in his nose return.

"Heh'heh..Hetchxih!" J-hope sneezes, nearly falling forward. How am I going to hide this from the others...? They can't do the shoot without me and the album will get delayed if we don't have the photoshoot..

J-hope attempts to get back to bed without waking Jimin, but another itch appears. "Heh..heh..." He pinches the bridge of his nose, holding his breath to try to stop the sneeze from coming. He sighs in relief when the feeling disappeared crawling into his bed.

"Hm? What was that..?" Jimin sits up, rubbing his eyes seeing that his roommate returned. "Oh..it's you hyungie..Did you say something?"

"No. I just yawned." J-hope lies. "I'm tired now that i walked the nerves off.."

"That was a weird yawn.. what time is it?" Jimin asks, searching for his phone, accidently knocking it to the floor when he slides his hand across the bed to find it.

Sh*t, don't be awake now..

"We still have an hour until the alarm.. I'm gonna to lay down and sleep." J-hope wanted to avoid conversation.. at least until the medicine kicked in."You should sleep more too. It'll be a long shoot today.."

"Alright.. rest well.." Jimin yawns, laying back down.

J-hope covers his face with a pillow when the itch returns, the edge of his nose twitching. The pressure was building, causing a headache but he couldn't let Jimin know he wasnt feeling well..not until after the photo shoot.

The sneeze escaped against his will, muffled by the pillow, but still coming out as a squeak. "Hehitdyh!"

"Hyung..?" Jimin looks in the direction of J-hope, but the rapper pretends to be asleep, already knowing the question he'd ask. "That was fast..." He turns over, not wanting to 'wake' him.

This is gonna he a long day..

J-hope looks in the mirror, grimacing at his reflection. His nose was noticeably red, especially underneath his nostrils from them dripping. He winces when he touches the irritated area, trying to cover it with makeup, swearing under his breath. "It's not working.."

"Hoba are you almost finished? We need to leave in five minutes." Yoongi calls to him from outside the door.

"I'm almost done!" J-hope stifles a cough, quickly adding a layer of makeup to try to make his cover-up job less obvious. "Finished."

"Staff is going to do your make up for the shoot.." Yoongi thought it odd that J-hope would go through the trouble.

"Ah, I know.. I'm just breaking out from that fried chicken we ate last night, so I was feeling self-conscious.." J-hope lies, taking Yoongi's hand. "Let's go we don't want to keep staff waiting." He pulls him, not giving him time to think. He knew Yoongi could see right through him if their eyes met.

Everyone piled into the van, J-hope pressing his lips together tightly to surpress a cough. "Are you excited for the shoot Koo?" He gets the conversation going, hoping that would be enough to hide how poorly he felt.

"Where's the shoot gonna be again?" Jungkook asks, eyes shining with both excitement and curiosity.

"There's going to be two locations. An abandoned building that staff put a few sets in and by a lake." Namjoon explains.

" It's been forever since we shot outside." Taehyung smiles brightly, sharing Jungkook's excitement. "Which one first?"

"The building will be first because we want that natural light since there's hardly any power. " Yoongi replies next. "Didn't you pay attention during the meeting?"

Jungkook looks out the window, not wanting to reply getting a giggle out of J-hope.

"You should pay more attention." Jin scolds playfully.

"I knew there were going to be lake shots but I didn't know if it would be a real lake or just a built set like when we did Stay Gold." Jungkook says defensively.

"We're doing shots in the water." Namjoon explains. "They rented a place for us, and they're decorating it. We're actually going to do a few scenes for the music video while we're there."

This is going to take longer than I thought..

J-hope rubs his finger underneath his nose to try to stop the itch that formed underneath it, holding his breath. He was glad everyone was busy talking about work that they didn't notice him. He completely tuned them out, resting his elbow on the doorframe to look like he's just resting face on his hand.

"They want to do a few underwater shots with Me, Taehyungie and Hope."

J-hope quickly turns to Namjoon when he hears Namjoon add him to the list. "Wha...itchiz!" He sneezes.

"Bless you hyung." Jimin says politely.

"You and Jungkook are going to pull Taehyungie out of the water. Hoba, you agreed already. Why are you surprised?" Namjoon questions. J-hope was usually so serious when it came to their work, it took him off guard for him to forget something like that.

"Ah, I just thought we were doing it next week when we do the actual music video." J-hope tries to cover for his mind slip. How could he forget such an important detail.

"We made some last-minute changes because the weather is going to be bad next week." Namjoon tells him. "You were in your vocal lesson late.."

"Do you want me to do it for you hyung? You don't sound like you want to.." Jungkook offers.

"It has to be Hoba or it messes up the mini story in the music video.."

"It's fine, Jaykay. I don't mind it." J-hope smiles brightly to hide his concern about getting drenched when he was already feeling awful."I'll do it. I'm just feeling lazy today. I stayed up too late and got up too early."

"You want to sleep a little? You can lean on me if you want.." Yoongi offers, patting his shoulder. "We already ate fried food last night, so your cheeks will be puffy no matter what."

J-hope takes up the offer smiling to hear Yoongi trying to give him no excuse not to rest, it was getting harder to keep his voice sounding normal, and if he stays quiet for too long, they'll worry about him. "Thanks, hyung.."

Yoongi takes off the baseball cap he was wearing, placing it gently over J-hope's face to block out the sun. "No problem."

It didn't take long for him to fall asleep, everyone in the van whispering to not disturb him.

"Do you think he's really okay?" Jin asks, watching the soft rise and fall of J-hope's abdomen. "He sounds a little congested.."

"He kept leaving the room last night, and he said he was nervous this morning. It's been a while since we did a project this big..let's try to finish up quickly.." Jimin wasn't sure if he really was okay, but he at least wanted to tell the others what he knew. "Let's just keep an eye on him.."

"Hoba..Hoba wake up we're here." Yoongi gently raises his shoulder, waking up the usually cheerful rapper.

How could I feel worse after resting?

J-hope groggily sits up, rubbing his eyes. His head went from a dull ache to a pounding throb that got worse with every movement. " 'm up.." His voice comes out in a hoarse whisper.

"Are you okay, Hoba?" Jin asks, watching his stiff movement with concern.

J-hope clears his throat to try to speak louder. "My throats dry, I need some water."

Jungkook digs into his backpack to find a waterbottle, passing it to him. "Here Hobi-hyung."

"Thanks Jeykay.." j-hope stifles a sneeze, the pressure building up in his nose.

"Are you okay Hoba?" Yoongi notices J-hope's eyes watering from the pressure, but the younger rapper waves it off.

"I'm just still tired. That's all. I'll be okay. Let's get going. We're wasting daylight.." J-hope gets out, the others following behind him. He takes a swig of water, trying to ease the pain.

"This way Hoseok-ah.."Jin takes his hand when he sees J-hope walk the wrong direction clearly still half asleep, leading him to the changing trailer.

"Sorry Hyung." J-hope blushes lightly in embarrassment. "I guess I'm still not awake."

"It's okay. You'll wake up as you move around. Here, this one's your outfit." Jin gives him his outfit. "You need help?"

"No, I can dress myself." J-hope takes it, turning away from him when he feels another sneeze coming, quickly pulling his shirt over his head to hide his face, breath hitching. "Heh..heh..." He managed to stop the sneeze from coming, sighing softly. "These outfits remind me of the most beautiful moment photoshoot.." J-hope points out, trying to cover up his discomfort. "Like..uh..the I need U outfit mixed with Run."

"Yeah especially my jeans." Yoongi says rubbing his bare knee. "It's gonna suck for you guys in the water. Are you sure you're feeling up to it Hoba?"

"Yeah, yeah I think I'm getting a little cold.. Staff has hair dryers I'll just ask them to dry my hair as soon as possible." J-hope couldn't lie to Yoongi, not fully. "I can do this."

"Hopefully we can get it right in one shot." Jungkook felt his stomach tightening with nerves. If I mess up the shot Hobi-hyung will have to stay in the water longer and get worse..

Taehyung hugs Jungkook from behind when he notices the tension in his shoulders. "Don't worry Gukkie. We'll do our best. I don't think we'll need to do more than two takes."

"I'll do my best." Jungkook gives a small smile, leaning his head into Taehyung’s cheek, to fear still gnawed at his belly. Taehyungie-hyungie has done underwater shots before.. he has more confidence than me.. I don't know if I can get a good shot..

"We're doing the photos first. Concentrate on those right now. Don't worry about the filming.." Jin tells him.

"Right." Jungkook goes to his Noona to get his makeup done, keeping one eye on j-hope while he gets scolded for adding so much makeup this morning.

"I'm sorry..I'm sorry.." J-hope bows his head while she gets some wipes, trying to uncake the concealer that covered his reddened nose.

"It's okay, I'll get you taken care of. Just remember not to overdo it next time." She tells him in a soft tone, noticing the redness of his nose, realizing what he was trying to do.

J-hope feels his nostrils flair, another sneeze building when she removes the makeup from his upper lip, quickly spinning the chair to face away from her. "Hehtichih!"

"I'm sorry Hoseok-ssii, I didn't mean to tickle your nose." She bows in apology when he spins back to face her.

"It's okay." He fights the urge to sniffle,rubbing his nose with the side of his fist.

"Taehyung-ssii come back so I can finish your make up." Staff calls to him.

"Coming!" He calls back, quickly whispering. "We'll take care of Hobi-hyung, but it's better to let him think we aren't that worried."

Jungkook nods, going to staff to get his own make up done. Hyung doesn't like making us worry..

"Oh wow.. look they made a path of flowers.." Jungkook runs to the path, careful to keep his feet in the small gaps staff made them to walk through. "Ah.. heh..heh'itch!" He sneezes covering up his face. "Ugh..I'll need to take some allergy medicine before we pose with the flo..heh..itchi!"

"You didn't take some before you decided to charge towards them?" Namjoon goes to get Jungkook away from the flowers, but Yoongi stops him. "I'll get him. Jungkook-ah you need to be more careful of your health.." he gently moves towards him, grabbing his elbow to lead him back to the trailer.

"Heh.." j-hope clamps his hand over his nose to stop the sneeze, eyes watering.

"You okay Hoba?" Namjoon asks rubbing his back. "Do you need some medicine too?"

"I just took some." J-hope tells him. It wasn't a complete lie, but he still felt his heart ache to lie to him.

"Well, it should kick in soon. Just hang in there." Namjoon goes to staff for instructions, them starting the shoot, choosing to pose with the flowers second to last, giving Jungkooks medicine time to kick in.

J-hope stifles another sneeze, his face screwing up running yet another photo. "Sh*t.. sorry.. the sun got in my eyes.." he makes another excuse, but he knew they were onto him. There's no way they weren't with how many photos he ruined with the persistent itch and constant sniffling to try to keep his nose from dripping.

"It's okay Hoba. That's why we take thousands of photos. I'm sure the first few came out fine." Jin comforts J-hope. It's only been an hour and a half since they started the shoot, but Jin could see his energy already draining.

J-hope goes to monitor the photoshoot, feeling his heart sink when he sees he's ruined a quarter of the photos with him trying to stifle his sneezes and prevent his nose from leaking. At least they did an amazing job hiding the redness. You can't even tell I'm sick in the photos..

"There's still plenty of shots to work with. Don't worry about it hyungie." Jimin hugs him from behind.

"Let's do the mankae line shoot next. I need to use the restroom." Yoongi makes an excuse so J-hope could take a break.

"I gotta go too. After that we can do the vocal line shots." Jin was quick to pick up what Yoongi was up to, but J-hope wasn't. He was just happy to be able to take time to blow his nose and ask staff if they had any cough drops and pain relievers.

"Okay, I'm gonna go get some water for us." J-hope quickly walks away from the others, letting out a phlegm filled cough. He spits, into the grass, grimacing at the yellow coloration. "Why am I getting worse...?"

"Alright Taehyung-ssi will go into the water first, count to five before going in after him. Understood?" The director tells them. Taehyung and Jungkook nod, but J-hope was zoned out, eyes focused on the lake.

"Hoseok-ssi did you hear me?" He prompts J-hope to respond, j-hope looking at him when he hears his name.

"Huh? Ah.. I'm sorry..could you say that again?" J-hope bows, sniffling as softly as possible. His body ached, his head felt like it was splitting and now his nose and throat both had a persistent itch that made it hard to breathe. I made it this far.. It's just one more shot..

"Wait for Taehyung-sii starts sinking under the water before diving in to get him, and please be mindful where the cameras are. Don't pull him up too quickly, we want to be sure the shot comes out clearly but you need to move quickly to reach him. We can speed it up after if needed. " The director tells him with a sympathy,wanting to make it usable in the first take so he didn't have to spend too much time in the water.

"Understood. Swim fast when he jumps move slow to pull him up" J-hope nodded, eyes watering as his nose twitches, another sneeze threatening to come. "Heh.. heh..itchisg!"

"I think we should do this another day. You need to time this perfectly or Taehyung will be in danger." Namjoon felt anxious about both J-hopes health and Taehyungs safety.

"I'm okay. There's no way I'll let Taehyung be in real danger and we have staff on stand by in case anything happens. Joon i got this." I got to finish this..after filming this scene I can get dry and sleep in the car while we drive to the next location..

"But Hobi-"

"Please Namjoonah, I can do it."

Taehyung took a deep breath, jumping from the small boat and into the water, letting go of his breath when he hears the signal from staff, air bubbles filling the water. He allowed his body to sink, having full trust that Jungkook and J-hope would pull him out before he was in danger.

"He's in the water. We need to get to him." Jungkook knew Taehyung was the best at holding his breath out of all the members, but he was emptying his lungs so he could properly sink. He pulled J-hope into the water, the shock of cold completely waking him up.

Sh*t.. it's freezing..

J-hope tried to swim as quickly as Jungkook, but he didn't have the stamina. He knew of he used all his energy he wouldn't be able to pull Taehyung out.

Jungkook noticed him falling behind, stopping right before he was in sight of the camera. He could see Taehyung sinking. He's falling too fast.. I don't know if hyung have the energy to make it back up of he goes to far.

J-hope felt it too, the realization that Taehyung was at risk of actually drowning. Taehyungie had a hand singal in case he felt like he was in danger, but what if he was already unconscious?

Adrenaline kicked in, giving him the strength he needed to push forward, quickly moving to grab one of Taehyung’s arms. Jungkook feels relief wash over him when J-hope caught up with him, following his lead to get Taehyung back to the boat.

Taehyung weighed practically nothing in the water, making it easy for the two boys to lead him to the surface. Jungkook gave Taehyungs arm a squeeze right before they reached the surface, the older vocalist taking in a small mouthful of water as planned.

J-hope bit the inside of his cheek, the painful pressure of a building sneeze filling his sinuses. No. No if I sneeze I'll ruin the shot..

Jungkook was pretending to try to shake Taehyung awake. "Hyung.. Hyung..!" He had fake panic in his voice as Taehyung lay motionless, fighting against the urge to spit out the lake water and fill up his lungs that screamed for air.

"Taehyungie!" J-hope adds in as soon as he successfully stopped his sneeze, doing chest compressions lightly. "Taehyungie you gotta breathe.." it wasn't hard to make his voice sound pained. He got close to Taehyung's lips, only a few centimeters away from his lips as he pretended to fill his lungs with air.

Taehyung waited for him to pull away before coughing up the lake water, quickly sitting up as it drizzled down his mouth. He was only supposed to pretend to cough it up, but he couldn't hold his breath any longer, accidentally gasping it in.

"Alright cut!"

The director called, staff quickly pulling the boat to the shore.

Jungkook rubbed Taehyung's back when he realized he wasn't faking, his cough continuing even after filming stopped.

"Taehyungie are you okay? Did we take too long to get you? I'm sorry..that was..was...heh..itxixh!" J-hope sneezes.

"I'm..I'm okay..I jus..swallowed the..water.. my fault.." Taehyung says between coughs.

J-hope went to speak, but instead he joins Taehyung in his coughing fit, hacking up more thick mucus. He couldn't fight it anymore. He was sick and everyone knew it.

Staff quickly got the three boys out of the boat, wrapping each of them in a large towel. "J-hope are you okay?"

"I..i..don't feel well.." j-hope finally admits it, his knees giving in. His vision became hazy, the edges of everything softening.

"Get him in the trailer. We need to get him dry as soon as possible." Yoongi orders in a panic

Namjoon picks up J-hope, cradling him to his chest. "I shouldn't have let you do the shoot.."

J-hopes eyes widen when he feels his feet leave the ground, he wanted to tell him he could walk on his own, but he knew it was a lie. Right when the coughing started to slow, the itch switched to his nose, releasing the sneezes he wouldn't let come. "Heh..heitchi..Hehtifxtch!..heh..hegiixch!"

Namjoon sets him down, getting the hair dryer himself to try to prevent J-hope from getting any worse.

"I'm sorry.. I'm sorry.. I ruined the album.. it's gonna be late because..because of me.." J-hope's emotions overflowed, tears streaming down his cheeks.

"Hobi.. hobi no you didn't ruin anything. Don't cry..it's not your fault." Jin says wiping J-hopes cheeks. "You can't help it if you're sick. I'm sure we can get it out on time even with a minor set back and if we can't Army will understand." He tries to comfort J-hope, hugging him close.

"You..you think so..to..finish on..on time?" J-hope sniffles, triggering another sneeze right into Jin's chest. "Heh'itchii..ah..I'm sorry Hyung.. I'm sorry.."

Jimin hands him a tissue. "Here Hyung. Wipe your nose.. we'll get you taken care of. Okay?"

J-hope blows his nose. "I..I've been really close to..to everyone all..all day..with..without a mask.. everyone's gonna get sick beb..because of me.." J-hope's voice breaks off into a soft whimper.

Namjoon starts blow drying his hair. "Don't worry about that right now. Not everyone's gonna get sick."

"Hyungie don't cry.." Jungkook tries talking over the hair dryers. "I won't get sick and even if I do there's an equal chance it's from the lake."

" Hey.. hey.. what did one ocean say to the other?" Jin asks in English.

"What?" J-hope asks, perplexed by his sudden change in languages. "Now isn't..the time for riddles.."

"You only say that because you don't know the answer. A little one told me this one when we were in America. Come on. Guess.." Jin encourages him to try.

J-hope takes a deep breath. How am I supposed to answer English word play? My English isn't that good.

Jin smiles when he sees J-hopes mind focus on his joke instead of his cold and the album. "Think of ocean words."

"Fish, sand,sea sh..heh..hehitchsghi!" J-hope groans. "That one hurt.."

"It sounds like it did.. but hey.. look. You stopped crying." Jin says wiping the drying tears from his cheeks.

"Oh..you're right.. thanks Hyung.. and thanks Joon-ah..I'm sorry i didn't tell you guys how bad I felt.. I just wanted to get the shoot done.. it wasn't so bad this mor..." J-hope's cough cuts off the word.

"You should've told me anyway.. your health is more important.." Jin scolds him. "An extra month won't be the end of the world. I'll tell them myself we need to put the album on hold. Hyung will handle it. Okay?"

J-hope's only reply is a sneeze.

"So you want to know the answer to the riddle?" Jin asks.

J-hope nods, another sneeze coming. "Hehtichugh.."

"It didn't say anything. It only waved." Jin laughs at his own joke, earning himself an eye roll from J-hope.

"There.. your hair is dry.. let's get you to a doctor okay?" Namjoon said it as a question, but he had no intention of letting him say no.

[danikatze]

Hello there!

I don't usually log into my Tumblr account, I downloaded the app again only lately to search for fanfiction and fan arts actually. I think one of the reasons I started following your blog (probably years ago at this point) was surely your art. Anyway, today I took some time to scroll through the posts in my homepage and came across the one in which you poured your sentiments about your dad's death.

First of all, what I want to say is that I'm very sorry, I know that even when the death of a person you love is something that you are expecting, it's not easy to accept that anyway. In those last 4 years it happened to me too, first it was my grandma, who was like a second mother to me, after that my aunt followed her only a year after. Last month, my uncle died too. We are a very close family, I grew up with them in the same house, and now it's just me and my mum here. She has a lot of physical problems too, and since when I was little I've always been thinking about how I would react when I would lose her.

I get your feeling, I hate the fact that people come to your house when a relative dies, and even though I know they don't do it with bad intentions, I always felt it's absolutely wrong. When my grandma died, I just wanted to shut myself in and not talk to anyone, but people kept coming and it was so exhausting to be strong for them.

Honestly, I don't really know if my words will make any sense in general, but I feel like I just wanted to let you know that I understand how you feel, I would really like to let you know how to bear with it, but sadly I don't really know. If I was you, I would simply take some time for myself, go somewhere where you can have some days of peace and simply grieve the pain you feel like you couldn't grieve up until now. People surely will understand, and if not, screw them. But I also know that not everyone can just go and take some days off, so I hope you can find the best solution for you. Trust me, I think it's best to let go of the pain as much as you can when the wound is fresh, because it won't completely disappear, but at least you would have to deal with a minor amount as the time goes on.

Please, really, take care of yourself, I don't know you personally but I feel like there's a deep connection between us, so even if my words can only make you feel slightly better, slightly understood, I'll be happy with that.

I'm sending you a really big big hug 💙 I wish the best for you 💙

💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙

Thank you, anon, I'm sorry for your loss too, your uncle's death is very recent, but everyone else's must also hurt very much still. </3

The thing is, it's very difficult to find alone time currently. I live with my parents and my sister and her boyfriend have been here ever since the end of September to care for my dad and support each other. Which is wonderful, but it's also just a very full house, even without all of the visitors.

And tomorrow they're going back which creates a new problem, which is that my mum is often not great at being alone and I feel bad taking time for myself heh. Especially when it's just the two of us. And I'm the opposite: I recharge when I'm by myself lol.

Anyway, we're hopefully going to find a way to meet both of our needs.

[arsonyard]

Uh *taps mic* this still on?

Hi! Arson here heh, hopefully somebody will see this

First of all... Im so fucking sorry. I went into hiatus, said i was coming back and fucking disappeared again. Im not gonna make excuses, i just want to apologize in case i hurt somebody, it was never my intention.

I was having a v rough time w personal shit, still am, but thought it was time to face it. I wanted to do it earlier, but i kept thinking "is it too late know?" and time kept passing on and on. And now we're here

In any case, i cant promise I'll be as active as i used to be here, i will try this time to check in from time to time and answer u guy's dms and comments and whatever

But pls be patient with me. I know i made u wait, a lot for that matter, and again im sorry, but i dont wanna get overwhelmed and run away again without any explanation

In any case, hi! Hows everyone doing? :>

[amee-in-wonderland]

Dec - Jan was rough...

I keep hearing from the universe that I need to be single and alone so I can focus on myself and my projects.

I am too much of a lover girl though. :(

I have been depressed for the last week and I can't wait til this is over. I feel like I'm in a funk and I just want to shake it already. At the same time, I know it's the week before my period and I usually feel this way during this time. I forget every month and wonder why I feel poopy lol.

I've been playing more games on my laptop lately. I got Baldur's Gate and Little Witch in the Woods. Both are so fun!!! I have to play Baldur's Gate in the morning though because it's a little too intense for night time play so I play LWITW at night LOL. I panic too easily while playing any games that aren't considered "cozy." :P

Sorry I basically disappeared towards the end of January. I got off all social media because I was going THROUGH IT. I've been trying to lift my spirits though...gotta remember that this is just a temporary rough patch. I will get better again soon. When I feel poopy, I often cringe at the thought of being perceived by anyone and I just want to be alone in my solitude. I do crave being with friends and social interaction but in a very specific and weird way. I want to be alone but not alone, idk it's kinda hard to explain. It's one of the reasons why I love the internet and streaming on Twitch. I'm alone but not alone, you know? I do wish I had more friends to interact with on the internet though. I just don't really know how to nurture and grow those bonds deeper because a lot of times, I just don't like to talk that much. I like to listen much more than talk...I wish more of my friends online would just tell me random stuff, heh.

Anyway, I'll try to update you guys more often. Writing in here again has been refreshing and I forgot how much I miss it and love it here.

Love y'all. <3

[sanctuaryoftheodd]

Chapter 40: How Babies Are Made

"Seriously, they were super flirty, especially by slime girl standards."

"Are slime girls known for being flirty in the first place?" I had never met one.

"Oh yeah. It's practically part of slime person culture to be a little loose."

It was a beautiful dawn morning. After a week or so of night, it was nice to see the light again. And with the light continues Raina and I's latest tradition of taking a walk in the nearby woods every morning. We didn't get farther than the cloud line, as Panchi has been really hammering into everyone's heads about how dangerous the woods are after some recent disappearances.

I was enjoying the fresh air and Raina's company at the start of a new day. We've both been very busy lately so these morning walks and sharing a bed at night were our only opportunities to interact outside work.

"So what happened next?" I asked her.

"So she straight up asked me if I wanted to slip and slide with her."

"NO WAY!" I said in surprise. "Just up front like that?"

"I know right? I was too nervous to go for it though. Wound up panicking and running. That's usually how it plays out."

"Still, it's amazing you've been hit on by so many girls."

"Not... not really." She said pensively, rubbing her arm. "Apparently slime people have keen senses for when someone wants them to be the jelly on their toast."

I did not DARE ask what peanut butter would mean in that analogy. "I haven't really experienced being hit on all that often, personally."

"What about back when you were Nameless?" She inquired.

"I mean, yeah, it happened a lot more back then, but again, I'm very detached from those memories." I explained. "And it hasn't really happened to me all that much since I became me. Probably for the best, I'd probably freeze up if I were directly propositioned like that." I laughed.

Raina thought for a moment, and then a devious grin spread across her face. She stopped and turned in front of me, blocking my path. She looked me directly in the eyes, giving her best bedroom look and said "Would you like to slip and slide with me, Anne?"

My jaw dropped, my eyes went wide, my face immediately went hot. My metaphorical heart was pounding out of my chest. I was an ambitious person, but I didn't have the courage to respond to her request immediately.

Raina, seeing my reaction, giggled. Then she turned and pointed towards Sanctuary. "We probably should-"

"Yes."

"What?" Raina turned back to me in surprise.

"Yes. I would... like to..." MY MOUTH HAD A GODDAMN MIND OF ITS OWN!

Raina immediately goes completely red. We turned our gazes away from each other and overheated while staring at the ground.

In the distance, we could hear the chimes of a distant bell tower. Nine rings could be heard.

"Well, look at the time!" I said. "I've got work to do! Heh heh heh"

"Oh! Whatayaknow? I got to work today, too!"

"Well, I'll head back. Uh, see ya tonight, Raina! I love you!"

"S-see ya!" She said, waving awkwardly. "I love you, too!"

I gave her a very hurried kiss on the cheek. Then I turned into light and dashed off towards the mansion. My appointment wasn't time sensitive, but both Raina and I were going to be heading back in the same direction, and I couldn't handle the inevitable awkward silence after THAT conversation!

I ran into Auntie Lexine at the foyer of the mansion. "Good morning Anne... Are you okay? You're incredibly red."

"Oh, nothing just happened!" I couldn't tell her Raina jokingly propositioned me for bed time fun and I said "yes." I would die of embarassme-

"Oh my! You and Raina are already getting frisky huh? I guess it has been over a month."

DAMN NARRATION! "No, she was joking, and then I accidentally said-"

"Relax, I'm just messing with you." She said with a laugh.

I huffed in frustration as she led me down into the dungeon.

Many have been in and out of here. There were a few robberies, a few business owners refusing to pay their employees (mostly Belle,) and at least one instance of some teens taking Foxman's car for a joyride. None of them stayed locked up for long. We've only had two permanent jailhouse residents so far.

Bruce Gunsleg and Dennis Gregsalot, guilty of attempted destruction of property, attempted murder, and espionage. Their attempt to destroy Warehouse 21 nearly got Raina killed! That alone makes my blood boil. However, as the leader of Sanctuary, I needed to keep a cool head. They sat there, giving me stink eyes.

They were still presenting as valley girls, they didn't trust our doctors enough to reverse the disguise. However, their current appearance makes me think I'm being sassed right now.

"Has Berry Blitzkrieg seriously not lobbied for their release yet?"

"No." Lexine said. "I don't know what's taking them. You'd think at least their families would reach out to us by now."

"What do we do with them then? Just keep them locked up?"

"Hey, why don't you execute us?" Said one of them.

"Yeah, what are you waiting for? That's what Berry Blitzkrieg would have done to your spies."

"We're not Berry Blitzkrieg." I told them.

"Hah! No! You're just monsters pretending to be saints. You go against your natures, but at the end of the day, the evil within bubbles up."

"Projecting much?" Chided Lexine. "Literally everything you just said describes everything I know about Berry Blitzkrieg."

"Says the traitor."

She huffed. "You wanna know how they got me to work for them in the first place?"

"It was the right decision." One of the guys said. "Working for humans was the purest thing you could do as a monster."

"They cloned a baby with some of my DNA that they lifted from somewhere. They then used blood magic to mind control me into signing a contract."

Parents have a limited amount of magical power over their progeny, whether created through magic or through natural birth. The strength of the power depends on how deep the connection goes between them. For example, my father would have a lot of power over me if he were to exert it. Meanwhile, a child that has been completely displaced would not be controlled all that much from their birth parents. It's a mysterious bond that mages have been pondering over for centuries, but the biggest accepted theory is that it's culturally induced and people are just enforcing it subconsciously. Rules enforced magically through unconscious efforts are called "magic law."

Blood magic forces the control in the opposite direction, allowing the child to control the parent. Sometimes the control is even stronger than the familial bond because literally a spellwriter has optimized it for a specific purpose. The idea of cloning a baby specifically to force someone into indentured servitude is horrifying. "Is that true, Auntie Lexine?"

"Yes, every word of it. They never even let me see that cloned son of mine after that. Wouldn't be surprised if they cast him away somewhere."

"That’s... that's horrible. I'm sorry to hear that..." I gave her a hug, she hugged me back. I can't even imagine it, having some child I don't know about grown in a vat and used against me like that. That's something out of a nightmare. The whole idea gave me a shiver down my metaphorical spine.

"YOU'RE A LIAR!" Shouted one of the knights, interrupting my thought.

"Do you mind? We're having a moment here!" Exclaimed a vampire.

"Berry Blitzkrieg would never do something so heinous! You're just trying to slander the kingdom's good name!"

Lexine parted from me and walked until she was a foot away from the bars. "Well, then I'll just have to give you some undeniable proof."

"I'd love to see it, though whatever you have to show me must be fake-"

"I am an elephant." Suddenly, she was surrounded by a red glow.

My eyes nearly pop out of my skull. "Lexine! You still have the lie detector spell on you? Wait, you've had it on you this whole time? That was back when the town was founded!"

"I never had a reason to have Raina remove it."

The knight was stunned. "Y-you lie! That couldn't be a lie detector spell! It must go off when you say the word 'elephant' or something!"

"What you just said is very much true." She glowed red.

"That um..."

"I am your daughter." She glowed again.

"..."

She took a couple steps forward, her glare fierce. "I joined Berry Blitzkrieg of my own free will." She glowed.

The knight was silent.

"I was forced into servitude using a baby that was cloned into existence without my consent." She did not glow.

The knight slumped down in his bunk, looking towards the floor to avoid eye contact with the vampire.

Lexine simply sighed and shook her head. "I wish it was a lie." She did not glow at those words. In fact, it was almost as if the area had gotten darker.

We both completely forgot what we had come down there for in the first place, so we just silently went back up to the mansion.

As soon as we got back to the foyer, I hugged Lexine. I held her for as long as she needed it.

[blooddrinkingbartender]

theotherrookie

"I'll be honest. I wanted to be the one to kick your butt because you did the same for me." It only felt right to her to return the favor. But there would be time to discuss everything later, preferably in Lucien's absence. He was doing his best to appear to be doing just fine, but his stance was off. Hearing what his past misdeeds would not be helpful at the moment. "Glad to help." he gave a polite nod. Edmund tipped his hat, "Jolly t' see ye too! I 'eard ye've got a job fer me." "Yes, so, we've got a Cat Sidhe on the loose and we need some time to reorganize. I need you and the others to spread around the city and keep track of what he's up to. Just watch, don't get too close." "Belay dat. Is dat the same cat ye helped afore?" "It's him. So I need you to be my eyes and ears for a bit. And don't tell mom." "Ay, ay, Cap'n!" Edmund saluted, before disappearing. Rook then started heading back into the shop to grab some supplies for the trip, Lucien trailing after her. "Shouldn't you have a witty remark to go with this?" he asked. She tilted her head in thought for a moment, "…Cat season's open." It didn't take long for the order to be passed around and soon enough, the Queen's crew split up to search the area and keep an eye on Antonio's movements. They trusted Rook's judgement and would simply watch, regardless of what he might get up to in the meantime.

"Heh, maybe you'll get another opportunity after this," Bill said, with a small grin, "Life has its ways, you know."

And it seemed that was all he was willing to stay on that particular subject. He had never liked having to keep Rook held back with his abilities, even if it had been for everyone's safety.

It seemed that Edmund was up to the task, and Leofric was glad to hear the warning of not getting too close. Antonio would be on the hunt for souls and ghostly energy to take. Innocents, dead or not, did not deserve to be caught in that crossfire.

Leofric nodded.

"Yes, I suppose it is."

With that, Bill turned up the music on the headphones.

Antonio pushed himself away from the wall slowly. He wobbled and winced. Still hurt. Still dizzy. Still hard to move without his cane. Why did he leave that behind?

Oh yes, because he didn't want to waste time trying to find it. Antonio knew all too well his head start wouldn't last long, and it would be a matter of minutes before at least one of them was back on his tail.

So he had made his way forward again, trying to ignore that sudden feeling that he was being watched. He had to take what he could while had the time.

So it was a soul fragment at a time. Unsuspecting passers-by. He left them dazed just long enough to take a part of their soul, just like might tear off a piece of bread to dip into soup. It would leave them tired, a bit weak, and a bit confused with no memory of what happened. He would have loved to taken more, or forced them to do something for him. But again, too much time.

A small part of him said that he should surrendered back at the shop, maybe even pretended that he had gone back to his old pathetic self. But no, too late for that. He was going to do down swinging if he had to.

"I suppose some have a redemption arc, and I suppose some go in the opposite direction," Antonio said, "On this occasion, you are the better person than me, I won't deny that."

He chuckled a little bit.

"Of course not," Antonio said, drumming a set of sharp claws on the top of his walking cane. When had they appeared? "You think I'm going to miss a rare chance to be something more than what I am now?"

Despite all of his efforts. It appeared that Lucien just couldn't be swayed. Antonio could see it in his face, especially his eyes.

"Heh, of course not," Antonio replied then, "Well, you've made your choice. Seeing as I can't have your mind..."

The green swirling mists disappeared from his eyes, and they instead turned a solid black, like that of a long abandoned tunnel. His teeth appeared sharper, and green energy formed around his hands. He then held one of that out towards Lucien, who might have started to feel a horrible stretching sensation inside of his chest.

"I'm going to have your soul."

[chokico]

Ishtar from Fate/Grand Order! I really like her design it’s one of my favourites I wish I rolled her;;;; but I’ll just draw her instead to fill in the void hahaha

[soundcrusher]

A story about a Hawk and a Phoenix

Heh, revisiting @cuppajj's Sentient Sg!Lost Light Au, only to write a crosssover thingy including @dimorphodon-x's Sg!Starhawk and my Sg!Phoenix.

You two don't know how much fun this was X3

(This is the first time I did more than simply include Sg!Starhawk in some silly doodles. So, should anything be off, please let me know. I'll change it as soon as I can. ^^)

Either way, enjoy!

Trigger warning: A not important character dies

The first time Phoenix realized there were more than just Rodimus and Lightlost on the ship, was when he walked down the halls alone. He was just sweeping the floor and cleaning up some of the stains, when he could see something or someone moving. At least, he thought he saw something, because the second he turned around, there was nothing but the emptiness of the hall. But despite the vacancy of the hall, Phoenix could have sworn that there was someone watching him.

Someone he couldn’t see, but he was sure that there was someone else. Even as Lightlost reassured him that there was no-one else on the ship. But Phoenix, despite trusting Lightlost, never felt reassured. Not when he could hear strange sounds waking him up from his recharge. Sounds, only a prowling monster could make as it circles their prey. Waiting for a moment to strike. But Phoenix never saw the monster, not fully. The darkness of the bridge and his own fears kept him from venturing out from underneath his blankets. Only once did he do it, after being woken up from probably the first good sleep he ever had since his crew came back, only to try and kill him.

But even then, he was too tired to fully make out the strange monster leaning over Rodimus. And when he finally realized that there was someone else with them, it was already far too late. The monster was gone and Phoenix couldn’t sleep well for the next few days. Always clinging to either Rodimus or Lightlost. Telling them that someone else was on board, but only Rodimus believed him. Lightlost only smiled, as they patted his head. Telling him that his imagination is playing tricks on him.

Rodimus, on the other hand, told him that the monster was a friend. That he wouldn’t do any harm, because he was way too soft to do such a thing. However, Phoenix wasn’t all too sure about it, because his brother’s words were met with a small sound from within the vents. Something that sounded more like a grunt of disagreement, rather than a reassuring confirmation.

It, again, left Phoenix scared. And his fear only grew with each passing day and peaked on the day when he finally grew angry and was taken away from Rodimus.

With the way the monster usually moved, it should have been with Rodimus in the bridge. It seemed to be there every time Phoenix noticed it. But it wasn’t. At least it sounded like the monster was scurrying inside the vents of his new room. And being alone, without either Rodimus or Lightlost, made the youngling fear the monster even more. Until Phoenix’s ball disappeared. He was stupid enough to not put it in his subspace before recharging, and then it was gone.

Or, at least, Phoenix thought it was gone, until he heard the same scurrying the monster made when moving inside the vents, and his ball fell out of the open vent. Phoenix was quick to take his ball and store it safely in his subspace. Not taking it out for the rest of his stay, because he didn’t want to lose it again.

But the small gesture had something positive. Phoenix lost a little bit of his fear and so, after Lightlost allowed him to return back to the bridge, the youngling gathered up his best cleaning rug and Rodimus’ polish. Putting it on the captain’s chair with a nervous smile. Telling his brother that this was for the monster, before going to sleep. And when Phoenix looked towards the captain’s chair the next dday, both items were gone. With Rodimus smiling knowingly towards the vent.

And then, there was the day of their escape.

If Phoenix was being honest, escape was something he never dared to imagen. He always thought that, with the way things were after his small outburst, he would be forever trapped on board the Lost Light. Forced to either watch Rodimus slowly deteriorate until there was nothing left, or spend the rest of his life trapped within a ship where there was no chance of escape.

But then the monster came and took Rodimus away. And Phoenix followed him and his brother, never once looking back. Because he knew if he did, he would have stayed behind.

Although, a part of him still missed Lightlost. It was hard to wake up and not have them close, or being able to talk to them, or hearing ther reassuring words every time he woke up from a nightmare. But at he still had Rodimus! That was something Phoenix was thankful for, because without his brother, he would truly be alone in a place he doesn’t know.

However, it was weird to see him with a fixed frame. Primus, Phoenix could still remember his first reaction when seeing Rodimus in all his glory. It was startling, to say the least, especially after waking up and not only being able to feel his wings again, but also having woken up in a place he didn’t recognize. At least Rodimus was forgiving after he hit him, unlike the strange white flier looming over them. He wasn’t all that happy with Phoenix hitting Rodimus, and only got scarier the longer he stared at the youngspark.

And Phoenix was still embarrassed to admit that he started crying from the white fliers glare.

Which Rodimus seemed to find funny, until he realized that the younger one wouldn’t stop crying. It took Rodimus almost an hour to calm him down, and then another two of talking soothingly to the frightened youngspark, until he fully calmed down. Only for him to then start crying again, after being introduced to the tall flier, or better said, to the monster. Phoenix didn’t know why, but Starhawk scared him. Maybe not as much as Lightlost when they locked him up in a room, but still. Something about Starhawk was scary to Phoenix, and the young flier couldn’t even point out what it was! It didn’t even scare him, that he was the monster.

It wasn't his looks, nor his glares. Phoenix had to deal with many scary Autobots, back when his crew used him as live bait, and with a Decepticon crew that never truly liked him in the first place. So, no, if it only were for the glares and his looks, Phoenix wouldn’t be scared of Starhawk (okay, maybe a little bit). Which means, it was something else. Something the youngling couldn’t point at, because Rodimus hardly told him anything about his boyfriend and Phoenix was too scared to directly ask Starhawk.

He couldn't even stay in the same room as the taller flier, unless Rodimus was with him. This is also the reason why Phoenix sneaked a little bit away from the two, the second they made it to a new planet.

The kid knew that it was a bad idea, but he could see that Rodimus wanted some alone time with Starhawk. He deserved it, after having to take care of the nervous mess Phoenix has become ever since they left the Lost Light behind. So, the youngspark waited until his brother and the scary flier were busy, before quietly leaving their ship. Taking his first steps into the outside world on his own, before those steps turned into a full sprint.

It was amazing to run without anything stopping him from doing it. Lightlost never let him run like this after all. They always stopped him, claiming that he could hurt himself or worse, and Phoenix always listened. Just like the good kid Lightlost wanted him to be.

But now? He was free to run without anyone telling him to stop. And Phoenix ran. Jumping over and sliding underneath obstacles that were in his way. Only stopping when he made it to the outskirts of a small city. A city, Phoenix wanted to explore, but at the same time, what if Lightlost was right? What if those living outside the safe walls of the Lost Light were dangerous? What if they only waited for him to come closer, only to snatch him up and do terrible things to him? Like making him bake for them until he dies of overworking himself. Or worse!

But then again, their journey so far has been safe. Nothing bad had happened, so why should something bad happen now? And even if, Phoenix can fly again. If something should go wrong, he can simply run away and transform. Leaving whoever is after him behind, as he escapes into the sky.

Yes, everything was okay. There was nothing to fear! And with a confidence he hasn’t felt in a long time, Phoenix walked into the city. Exploring every nook and cranny he could, while avoiding the few Decepticons walking among the mostly neutral looking Cybertronians. Just because he still had his badge doesn’t mean that they wouldn’t treat him the same as his past crew.

However, Phoenix soon enough learned that it was a bad idea to explore the city. Someone, despite the young flier’s best efforts, noticed that he was alone. And that someone was the embodiment of everything Lightlost had warned him about.

They were scary, loud and dangerous. Pushing Phoenix into a quiet alley, as they demanded everything he had, and only grew nastier for each second the youngling tried to explain that he didn’t have anything. Pressing their knife harder against his throat, after they finally realized that the youngspark in front of them really didn’t even have one Shanix on him.

“But you got some nice parts.” They said with a tone that froze the energon in Phoenix’s veins. “You don’t know how much someone would pay me for them. Or, maybe, I should leave you whole?” Phoenix could only fearfully stare at his assailant, as they snickered to themself. Giving the youngling a rough shove afterwards, that made him stumble a little bit, before he was painfully forced to the ground. Face facing the asphalt beneath him, as he felt the stranger stomp down on his back. Keeping him in place, as they pondered on what to do.

But before anything worse could happen, Phoenix felt the weight on his back disappear the second his assailant let out a blood curdling scream. Although, when he tried to raise his head to see what was going on, his savior barked a harsh, “Don’t look!”. And Phoenix listened. Covering his optics with his hands, as he listened to the screams of a mech who tried to escape death, but failed. The sickening crunch of their plating and the snapping of cables was all Phoenix could concentrate on, as they begged his savior to let them go. Offering whatever they had at hand, but it didn’t save them.

His savior tore them apart like nothing. At least, Phoenix thought they were torn in two. He heard two heavy thuds after all, before his savior complained about getting his plating dirty. But when he removed his hands from his face and sat up to see what had become of his attacker, his savior was there to cover his optics. Muttering a softer, yet still harsh, “I told you brat, no looking”, before picking him up and carrying the shaking youngling out of the alley.

Only when they were far away from the city was the hand removed from Phoenix’s optics. And as the youngling stared up at his savior, he started to cry.

“Tch, don’t tell me you feel sad for that pathetic excuse of a Cybertronian.” Growled Starhawk, as he looked down at the crying youngling. “They had it coming, end of story.”

“I’m… I’m n-not…not crying because of… of them… or f-for them…”

“Then why are you crying, brat?”

“It’s… it’s ruined… because of me…” Was all the youngling could mutter, before wiping the tears from his optics and looking up at Starhawk with one of his infuriating sad and apologetic look the kid only got, when he thought he did something wrong.

“What? What did you ruin?” Asked the taller flier angrily. Although, when his optics followed to where Phoenix was looking, he couldn’t help but to let out a barking laugh. "Seriously? You’re sad because I ruined my finish fighting that scum? That’s why you’re crying?” He exclaimed loudly, and only felt slightly bad for making the youngling flinch, before getting annoyed as Phoenix pressed himself closer to his chest. Getting energon on himself, and tear stains on Starhawks already dirty plating.

But considering the near death, and or near dismemberment, Starhawk left the kid alone. Carrying him back to their ship, while trying to figure out a way to get Phoenix to calm down and clean off the energon. If he didn’t, Rodimus surely would blow a fuse. Or worse.

“Say, brat, do you know how to use a cleaning kit?” Starhawk asked as soon as they were back in ‘their’ ship. With Rodimus still out searching for Phoenix in the surrounding woods. And that’s what he’ll do a little bit longer, while Starhawk made sure to dispose of the evidence still clinging to their plating.

“I… yes?” Phoenix answered confused. “But I… I don’t see how that can help us…”

“Phoenix, we’re both covered in energon. Me more than you. Rodimus will blow a fuse when he sees us.”

“Oh… then we better clean it up?”

“That’s the only good idea you had the whole day.” Starhawk smirked as he sat Phoenix down. And then, they went to work by getting the few cleaning kits they had. With the taller flier going first, after Phoenix insisted with a softly mumbled ‘You need it more than me…’ And who was Starhawk to decline.

Although, despite not wanting to, he sadly had to admit that Phoenix, despite knowing terrible little about the needed maintenance for fliers, was surprisingly good at polishing. The kid even smiled up at him, after finishing the parts Starhawk graciously allowed him to work on. And after he was done, it was Phoenix’s turn. Which was mostly spent in silence, as Starhawk carefully took care of the younger flier’s wings, after Phoenix was done with cleaning himself. Grimacing only once as he found year old dirt in the seams where the youngling’s wings connected with his back. “To think that Lightlost didn’t notice this…”

“They probably had more important things to do.” Said Phoenix, before letting out a soft sigh. Head lolling to the side, as his frame relaxed from Starhawk’s demonstration.

“Still. They should have, at least, made you take better care of your frame. You only have this one, brat.”

“Mhm…”

It was silent again, as Starhawk continued his work. Watching how the brat would doze off for a few seconds. Sometimes, he would even start to fall asleep, before jolting awake and sitting upright again. Causing Starhawk to smirk as he finished up, placing the supplies back into the kit, as soon as they were done. “Heh, usually you would be running for the hills by now. Aren’t you scared of the big bad mech Lightlost warned you about?”

It took Phoenix as second to understand what Starhawk meant. Between what happened in the city and now, the youngling has grown a little bit sleepy. Okay, maybe more than a little bit but still not enough to make him fall asleep right now. “I… am scared of you…”

Starhawk scoffed, “Of course you are.” to which Phoenix only pouted. “You didn’t let me finish… I am scared of you… or better said, I was. Maybe I’m still a little bit scared. I mean, you’re the monster… But… you also haven’t done anything bad either.” Phoenix let out a soft yawn, as he carefully climbed into Starhawk’s lab. Being extra careful as to not ruin the now fixed finish and surprising the taller flier by cuddling against him. “You’re nice to me… nicer than most ever were… and Rodimus like you… And you saved me… So…”

“So? Phoenix? What do you mean with… oh…” Starhawk groaned quietly as he looked down, only to find the youngling fast asleep. “You’re lucky that you’re somewhat okay, brat.” Muttered the taller flier quietly, while softly stroking the youngspark’s head. Knowing full well that moving now would be a stupid idea.

And when Rodimus returned from searching for his missing brother, he came back to the sight of his favorite Sparkeater clutching his little brother protectively while both of them slept. At least Rodimus thought that both of them were sleeping, as he quickly snapped a picture for either memory sake or blackmail.

Either way, it was an endearing sight to see.

[husbandohunter]

Moments of Despair #1 [Genshin Impact/Diluc x Reader]

Synopsis: “The man who was on fire and realized it too late.”

(A series of works where the boys deal with the passing of their beloved).

Albedo's despair

Warnings: angst, tragedy, major character death, graphic depictions of violence perhaps

(A/n): Had these ideas for a while after reading @/serensama To Mourn series of another fandom. So much sorrow and feeling I just was inspired to write 😫

_______________________________________________

The moment you fell lifeless in Diluc's arms, he wanted to disappear.

It was raining again, he had always despised the rain. How it trickles down the slope of your cheek, like tears falling from the heavens. The sight of it mixing with your blood creating a thin stream of red rivers flowing beside him. They patter down obnoxiously because time didn't care, the gods don't care, the world didn't care. You were just a small fragile person to their eyes but to him you were his light. A candle that used to shine in his dark world was now dissipitated by the waters of reality.

Many droplets have passed and he was still holding you. Diluc could do nothing but stare. He hadn't shed any tears nor could he make a coherent sound. Perhaps it was because his tears have long run out when his father was held in the very same way. Or it was because he was heartless. He's usually told for being cold and indifferent. But the pain clenching in his chest was proof that he still had one (proof that it was still beating), much to his dismay. It would be better if he didn't.

So why can't he just look away? Your wounds, your bruised features, everything now etched so deep into the back of his conciousness that is was starting to awaken his worst nightmares. They were the source of the bile growing in his stomach. The irony stench filling up his nostrils felt so sickening. He couldn't turn away. You're dead. You're dead. You're dead. As if reality had yet to register, or maybe he refused to accept it, Diluc helplessly gazed down your body with blank and empty eyes.

"Master Diluc..."

Jean's voice called out to him pitifully. He rises up with his back turned, ignoring the stares given to him, "Leave. The knights of favonius are not needed here."

"But she's a Mondstadt citizen," The anemo user retorts, slightly taken aback by his impassive reaction, "It's my responsibility to ensure this case doesn't go unnoticed."

Unnoticed. Diluc scoffs in his mind, what a tasteless joke.

"It seems you weren't listening," he announces as his head was turned ajar so they could see the deep hatred glowing red in his eyes, "Leave. Now."

Jean's lips trembled before barely being able to say, "Alright" and retreating her knights back to the city. Kaeya narrows his gaze at his bother, the sorrow was evident through his pupils. He steps forward until he was arms length away from his brother. Too little too late, another failure was added to the belt.

Kaeya was a man of many words but for once he was at loss of what to say. No underhanded suggestions, no ideas taunting him to spill his thoughts, he simply asks Diluc, "What are you planning to do now?"

Silence. Kaeya couldn't predict what sort of expression his brother was making as he looks at your corpse. It brought a heavy weight of unsettlement upon him and here he thought he had already grown used to his brother's quietness.

Slowly, he turns around while letting the water pour down his face. Kaeya tightens his jaw as Diluc drags his feet towards him, stopping when their shoulders were parallel, "It's none of your concern."

"You're just going to leave her here?"

There was a slight pause which was enough of an answer. The Cavalry Captain sighs when he watched him walk away, what was the point of asking when Kaeya knew Diluc so well? He glances at your form before swiftly shutting his eyes.

It was his concern.

-------

A week later, the staff of the Ragnvindr household could hardly recognize their Master's appearance. They knew not to bother him when he decides to lock himself in his chambers. Diluc drowns himself with work from hours to no end as he connects the findings of the person that took your life. As expected, it was one of his enemies- a fatui member. The question was, which one?

"Master Diluc, I beg of you, please take care of yourself," Elzer pleads.

The pyro user didn't bother to spare him a glance or look at the tray of food he carried.

Food...you always brought them whenever he had to work overtime.

"I do not remember specifiying anyone to be allowed in my office," he voices aloud, "If it's related to business affairs simply leave that with Adelinde and I'll take a look at it tomorrow."

"I understand. But you've been working all day and night yet refusing to take any breaks in between. At this rate, you'll harm your health."

The feather pen in his grip kept dragging it's course, "This is beyond the duties assigned to you Elzer."

"That's because it was a request sent by your father," he adds, knowing that stepping over his boundaries may cost him, "If Master Crepus was still here, I'm sure he would have said the same thing."

Taking a deep breath, Elzer lays out his last card, "And also your wife."

The pen slows into a halt.

No one had brought you up until now. Elzer anxiously watches his Master shifting in his seat, his red bangs covering half of his face but he could still see the frown pressing firmly on his lips. It wouldn't be a surprise if Diluc suddenly bursted at him for mentioning such a sensitive topic, all that matters was his master's well being and Elzer was willing to risk everything for it. But nothing. Diluc turns his attention ever so slightly at the tray he carried.

"Fine, but I'm not eating that."

"What? Wasn't this was her favourite-"

"Do I need to repeat myself?"

Elzer furrows his brows before sighing, "...No, Master Diluc."

He exits the room while carrying the fresh dish of Once Upon A Mondstadt that you loved so much. The door closes with a soft click and he was alone again.

People found it strange how Diluc seemed so vacant to your passing. He didn't even show up at your funeral. Instead, he continues his duties as a Mondstadt nobleman like usual while taking care of business matters associated with the winery. Except those who were close to him could see the difference in his actions. Apathy, he was so mechanical in every task he did. Like a marionette attatched on strings, a doll without a soul. After all, his soul died the moment when yours did too. What remains was a shadow of Diluc and a being existing solely for revenge and duty. He was nothing but a remnant.

Fatigue begins to wash over him and he fights to stay awake. Because once he gives in it will all be over. Once he closes his eyes, he would see your face with a multitude of images from the past. He would hear your voice calling out his name from a distant space as it echoes off the walls of his mind. He would fall into a dream where you were still with him and as always, waking up to see that it was never real.

I should have pushed you away.

Because what hurt Diluc the most wasn't that you were gone, rather, it was how you were still here.

Then you'd still be-

Something breaks and it turned out to be the pen he was holding so tightly. Only now Diluc realized how fast his heart was thrumming as beads of sweat began rolling down his forehead. Focus. Don't waste time. He won't grant himself the liberty of anything when your murderer was still on the run. Every wound they inflicted on you was going to be returned in tenfold. He'll make sure of it. That's why, he refuses to think about you at all. Diluc occupies his mind with other matters since at this point, work was the only efficient method of keeping his sanity in tact.

She needs you to focus.

The door opens and Kaeya enters the room while holding a document, "We found the guy."

His reaction was immediate, "Where?"

"Hm, now that we meet, it's actually quite debateable," The captain notes wryly, "When was the last time you've gotten proper rest?"

"I don't have time for this, either you tell me or I'll do it by force."

Kaeya couldn't help but sigh, "Apologies but you don't seem to be in any state for a fight. I'm sure you know how it would end up if you were to face your enemy right now."

"..."

"Diluc, this isn't healthy," Kaeya asserts, it's been a while since he sounded so sincere, "I'm not here to prevent you from doing what's necessary however, perhaps it would be better if I finished it in your stead."

"No," Diluc stubbornly answers, "Hand that over."

"...Heh, then there's really nothing I can do to stop you it seems," he whispers with a sad smile, "At the very least, be careful."

"I intend to," The pyro user snatches the paper parchment out of Kaeya's hands before opening the window, "Also, if Elzer returns, tell him there's a few errands I have to take care of."

The night was a full moon and the sky was empty, Diluc leaps off the edge and disappears into the darkness. There was no telling of what could happen next. Since you weren't here, it was up to Kaeya to watch over him.

-------

The claymore dropped to the ground with a clang as it soaks up the blood of the fatui he just killed.

Diluc was tired, so tired.

He slumps down against the wall from pure exhaustion, all that adrenaline and hatred went up in fumes, leaving behind whatever was left in his heart: nothing. Two hours, not even that far from Mondstadt, the fatui hid in an abandoned building as he cowarded for his life. When Diluc arrived, he never expected this monster to be so weak. This was the person who murdered you? A pathetic nobody that was simply following orders? This was the reason why he lost you forever?

In the end, the only one to blame was himself, for being weak and unable to protect you. He was supposed to be your hero ("Darknight hero," you'd always tease), the rock that shields you just as you had been the warmth he longed for many years, did he give you enough? Was this enough? He thought avenging your death would grant him a peace of mind and the justice you deserved but deep down, he knew it will never be enough when it comes to his love for you.

"Diluc."

He closes his eyes, he hears your voice. He was so tired, it wouldn't be a surprise if he started hallucinating.

"Diluc."

"I'm sorry..."

The man lets out a trembled breath as he apologized to the image of you in his mind. I'm sorry I failed you. They were repeated like a mantra in hopes to reach you somehow. Of course that was impossible, his feelings, his emotions, love and sorrow altogether will never reach you again. And your arms that once comforted him and brushed his hair with a soothing voice, saying everything will be okay, where are they now?

"Diluc."

"Stop," he didn't want to hear your voice.

"Diluc, I'm here."

"Stop..."

"Diluc..."

He jolts his eyes open and lets out a yell, what was he saying? He doesn't know. All he needed now was to drown out the fake voices mocking in his head. Diluc grabs the nearest object and shatters it against the floor, the dam was broken and it flooded uncontrollably, breaking everything in it's way. The abandoned house was filled with loud cries of a man sobbing with agony like a broken-hearted child. He crumbles to his knees and falls to his side, lifting his forearms while clutching his face.

And screamed.

Archons, what did he do to deserve this? Why do the people he cherish get taken away from him? Diluc never wanted to be the Darknight hero if it meant having his father perish in his arms. He didn't want the feeling of stabs against his chest with every breath he took. He didn't want to feel cold while knowing it was because you weren't here to hold him. He didn't want your voice, your pictures or your memory.

He wanted you.

"(Y/n)..." he chokes. Rolling to his back, Diluc moves his arms to cover his eyes, letting the tears run down to his ears, "(Y/n)..."

For who knows how long, he lays there in the abandoned building and mourns. Diluc doesn't have the strength to move from his position, he found himself staring mindlessly through the cracks of the roof when his voice had gone hoarse. The corners of his eyes still burned and his head was throbbing with so much pain. Maybe he should just stay here but the thought of being in the same room as your murderer was unfathomable.

Picking up his claymore once again, Diluc drags himself out of the door. Where would he go? It's not like he had a home to return to because home was when he was with you. A doll without a soul, the marionette moves as if the strings have commanded him to do so. Where ever it takes him, he didn't care. He just knew he had to go.

[bouquetcfmuses]

kuroheishi:

Having Mikaela smile even if it was for something as silly as his declaration eased the ropes that always tightened around his heart whenever he looked at his family’s eyes. There was a light that had gone from Mika’s eyes, a light that had died that day in Sanguinem with everyone else and it was only in rare moments like this one that Yucihiro could see a glimpse of it. He would grasp at it as hard as it could, he would do anything to keep that fire alive in them after he had abandoned it so cruelly.

“Hah? Are you serious? Just looking at any food cooked by Shinoa can cause instant death! You’re just lucky that Kimizuki is not allowing her near any pans ever again.” the time they almost set on fire the whole dorms building was a day none of them would ever forget, so he wasn’t even trying to be dramatic about it but warn his family. “You also drove a car too though the other day, that means we are partners in crime heh! And, they would also have to catch us first.” in Sanguinem they had run away a countless times; fleeing from older kids through the dirty alleys after Yu had to be dragged away before he’d end up dead, Mika’s laugh following when they’d be far away enough before he’d scold the raven haired boy over and over again. They have always been partners in crime, then and now. “Actually,” arms crossed, Yuichiro’s brows furrowed in thought “I never beated Guren, not even once.” his emerald hues hid some kind of conflict behind them but he was quick to let that shadow disappear and the light bathe them again, making the green shades even brighter. “You make me want to spar now. Do you wanna try and beat me Mika?” his lips curved in the familiar arrogant grin he would pull only when he was ready for a good challenge.

"Oh my, I should be grateful that I don't need to eat food anymore then, huh? I'll have to watch her more closely to make sure she doesn't try to feed you any of her poison." Their light conversation made Mikaela feel at ease. If he could just stay this way with Yuu forever... Well, he would be perfectly content with that. This was the life he had been fighting to have for so long, if only he could grasp onto it and never let it go.

He knew better than that, of course. He knew they could never go back to how things used to be, but maybe that was for the best. Yuu had never seemed so happy before. The real cherry on top would be if the other kids could all be there too, that they could all be a happy family again.

But it was too late for wishful thinking. Mikaela had learned his lesson the hard way what wishful thinking got him. It cost the lives of those most dear to him and Yuuichiro.

Never again.

"You're right, I did drive a car, but at least I was actually taught how to do that. I bet you totally wrecked the car you drove. You did, didn't you?" He didn't need to hear the answer to know he'd gotten the answer right immediately. "I'm surprised you didn't make up some big, grand, story about beating Guren with your bare hands."

Wearing a fond smile on his pale face, Mikaela found his eyes searching Yuuichiro's face, studying it as if he were trying to memorize it. Just in case they were separated again, he didn't want to forget this moment they shared. Not one minute of it.

"Are you trying to just get your ass beat? You know you could never beat me one on one, that's just wishful thinking on your part."

[liastavernofstorytelling]

Childe/Tartaglia

Angst | Death | Blood

"You were long gone."

Tartaglia x Fem Reader | POV

"C-Childe... "

A heavy breath came out of your lips, with a huge pain you felt in your stomach—trying to retrace your steps you end up remembering the last battle you had with the 11th Fatui Harbinger.

Your eyes blinked as you had no energy nor power to move a single inch, you were on your deathbed, and in the hands of the man whose blade was deep inside of your stomach.

"I'm sorry...I had to... for my family... "

In your weaken state, you heard him mumble a few words, as if he was trying to keep his tears falling not wanting you to see him sob while you were right into his arms.

"It's alright Childe..."

You replied, every second had passed and you felt so weak, so cold, you wanted to reach for his face but instead your fingers felt so numb, your body was slowly giving up.

"Shh... it's alright, you don't need to say anything else... "

He held you so tightly, he knew that you had countless of thoughts you wanted him to hear before you disappeared.

You can feel him shiver, ever since that day in the first battle at Golden House he didn't care if he finally settled a score with you, he was merely in for the battle but for you.

Ever since that day, his thoughts changed whenever he saw you enter his domain. His world that was colored black and white full became colored as day by day went on eith the both of you seeing each other so often.

"Childe... remember our first battle in Golden house...?"

With every word that came out of your mouth, your breathing has gotten slower by the second, he grabbed your cold hand—placing it on his cheek.

"The first battle...that time when our battle wasn't just for wins and loses..."

"Yeah... I remember..."

The time when he fell inlove with you whole, he wanted to feel love from you whenever he felt grounded into his dark past memories, but instead chose to look at you from afar not wanting to bother you with his own greedy desires.

He didn't hesitate to help you with anything, he never thought that a simple human like you would take his heart and slowly made it beat faster whenever you were in his vision.

"I... also remember that time... snezhnaya's toy's greatest salesman heh... "

Childe let out a chuckle, even if his heart was slowly submerging into sadness he let out a laugh that you loved so much, not knowing when these feeling arose you were out of time... it was too late...

I love you... Childe...

Words you wanted to say to him after a long time, but chose not to, you soon realized that everything you did with him wasn't full of regret, instead—memories that will stay with you forever.

You vision of him slowly became a blur, despite that you still remembered every single detail of his handsome face.

People feared him... yet you didn't feel afraid being in his arms right now, rather than feeling sad, you felt so secure and safe as he brought your almost lifeless body closer to him.

"How I wish I could see the other places in Teyvat... how I wish... I could see my friends one last time..."

Your voice went quieter by the second, you blinked slowly as he listened to your last words.

"Childe... please tell everyone I enjoyed being with them, I will never forget them..."

"... and Teucer... please tell him that big sis will be traveling to another world again, tell him I'll come back soon... "

He hugged you ever so tightly, his fingers softly stroked your hair with his black gloves covered in that thick red liquid that he had gotten used to for years.

Your heart's pace became slower, your breathing became delayed with every deep breath you take in your lungs, you felt so cold... like you were travelling in dragonspine all over again.

Everything reminded you of your adventures, it was like life flashed before your eyes as all of it happened so fast.

"Thank you for everything Childe..."

"Sleep well y/n...have sweet dreams..."

He placed a kiss on your forehead, as he watched the love of his life became lifeless in his arms... he wanted to say more, but some words are rather kept in heart than saying them outloud, and then you were gone...

"I love you... y/n..."

"I'll wait for you, may my memories of you never fade away..."

The End

[shadowqueen402]

The Man Next Door (Part 1)

Figured I'd do my attempt at making a Balan Wonderworld mystery/suspense fic series. Also, Balan and Lance are humans in this AU! Enjoy!

Plot: Emma and Leo are best friends that live peacefully in Highland Isle. But when a peculiar man moves into Emma's neighborhood, the girl can't help but feel as though there's something not right with him.

(In Leo's Neighborhood)

Leo stood next to Emma as they exited the park once the sun set. They had spent some time dancing to the beats that Leo loved to listen to. Even his dance partners were there. "Wow, I had a blast hanging out with you!" The platinum blonde-haired girl said to Leo. "Your dance moves never fail to impress anyone."

"Heh, thanks," Leo said to his friend. "All that practice I've done really paid off. Not trying to brag but everyone believes that I'm the best dancer." He had a proud look on his face just to be silly.

Emma giggled at Leo's silliness. "We have to hang out together tomorrow. After all, it's still the weekened. We don't go back to school until Monday."

"That is true," Leo replied to her. "We should probably get home. It's getting a bit late, so I'll see you tomorrow noon?"

"Yeah, see you tomorrow." The two teens waved to each other and parted ways. Leo also said goodbye to his dance partners before he went home for the night.

As he walked down the path, he noticed a large moving truck drive past him. It seemed to be heading into the direction of Emma's neighborhood. The blonde-haired boy just shrugged his shoulders and kept on walking home. He'd figured that he would ask Emma about this tomorrow.

Little did Leo know that Emma's new neighbor would change his life… And not in a good way.

(In Emma's Neighborhood)

Emma was walking back to her mansion, the smile never leaving her face. She was looking forward to seeing Leo again tomorrow. As she walked down the pavement, the sight of a moving truck caught her attention.

That one house that had been up for sale for a long while was finally bought. It didn't take long for Emma to discover who the new owner of the house was. Coming out of the car was a tall man that Emma had never seen before.

He had long, straight, white hair, white skin, and blue eyes that held an unreadable gaze. There was this slight smile playing across his lips that held mystery in it. The strange man entered inside his house without sparing a glance at Emma. The people that drove the truck helped carry in the furniture.

Emma blinked as she watched the man disappear in his house. He had just moved here…and already, she was getting odd vibes from him. There was a part of Emma that wanted to find out more about this man. But there was the other part that wanted to stay away from him as far as possible.

"Oh! Hey, Emma!" A familiar voice called out. Emma snapped out of her daze and turned to see two girls she was friends with: Kaylo and Mei Hualing. The two had just returned from the movie theater and were on their way home.

"Hey, you guys!" Emma said. "I was just on my way home. I did notice that someone moved into my neighborhood."

"Oh, really?" Mei asked, curious about the neighborhood. "Did he or she tell you their name?"

"No," Emma said, shaking her head. "He just went inside his house. It's that one house that was up for sale for a long while. He bought it, apparently."

"He probably wants some time to get adjusted to his new life here," Kaylo pointed out. "Then, he'll come around. After all, this is his first time being in this neighborhood so he probably is going to be a bit on the distant side for a bit."

"Okay. Well, I'm heading inside. I'll see you two around." Emma waved at the two girls and watched them turn around to leave before she headed in her mansion. Once she went inside, those odd feelings came back. Who was that man? Where did he come from? Does he have a secret motive in mind?

Emma shrugged it off, thinking that she was just being paranoid over a new neighbor. She went to go get herself ready for bed, thinking that a good night's sleep would help calm her down from today's events.

However, Emma didn't see the curtains of the man's house rustle… as though someone had peeked through them for a bit…

Kaylo belongs to @kayssweetdreams

Mei Hualing belongs to @sundove88