#and/or attempting to prevent me from using a mask or mobility aid (or from sitting down)

[tj-crochets]

You should definitely tell people that you have blood pressure issues that make you passout if they're being angry, but if that doesn't work, you are under no obligation to tell random angry people the truth, tell them you have hear issues and your heart will give out if you don't sit when you need to.

Your safety is more important than honesty to random mean angry people.

Oh I absolutely do tell them when people are being jerks. I mean, most of the time, I just say I have heart issues and don't clarify if I have to say anything at all, but if they are being especially awful I'll launch onto a medical jargon-filled explanation while looking as like small and sad as possible. Like "sorry, I have ideopathic tachycardia and postural orthostatic hypotension, and the cerebral salt wasting syndrome makes it worse."

[venusluvrr]

The Psychological Horror Manhwa “Killing Stalking” is not a Romance, but an Emotional Series Depicting the Codependent Relationship Between Two Ill Individuals

Content Warning!!: contains mentions of sexual abuse (rape) and mental illness.

Killing Stalking is an immensely twisted webcomic series, mainly popular within the Yaoi community for its boy on boy focused plotline. The story follows characters Yoon Bum (Bum), a shy, scrawny young man with a haunting past filled with abuse, and Oh Sangwoo (Sangwoo), a younger man who also has a quite damaging upbringing but masks it perfectly with his vibrant, extroverted personality. After being saved from a rape attempt during his time serving in the military, Bum develops a crush on his saviour, Sangwoo, from which an unhealthy obsession starts to arise and he eventually finds himself locating and breaking into the man’s home one day when he’s out. When he does, he discovers a terribly injured woman being held captive in his basement, and with further evidence, soon comes to the realization that his crush is actually a serial killer -- hence the name “Killing Stalking,” as Sangwoo kills and Bum stalks. For a very specific reason though, Sangwoo decides not to kill the man that had been stalking him, and instead holds him hostage in his custody. From here, the story goes into exceeding depth of the abnormal, toxic, and manipulative relationship the two form during their time spent together. By just the mere description of it, it’s a bit concerning to know that a large portion of readers still support Sangwoo and Bum’s relationship. In other words, they believe they truly loved each other and that the story was not only horror fiction but a romance as well. One could easily come to this conclusion by basing their relationship on the few parts within the novel where they showed affection towards each other -- for example when Bum allows Sangwoo to hug him to sleep when he suffered through the night, or my personal favourite, when Sangwoo buys Bum a stuffed frog keychain after finding out that he had an affinity for such creatures. But we cannot simply dismiss the underlying factors of their relationship because of some cute things they did that made our heart melt -- Sangwoo still abused Bum at his leisure which makes those moments quite meaningless in the sense of it all. What Sangwoo and Yoonbum shared can’t be classified as “love,” because even with their peculiar bond and endearing moments, the psychological damage they both endured played a bigger part in the way they perceived each other.

Many toxic relationships start out lovely and glamorous until the couple have become comfortable enough to start revealing some bad habits, but in Sangwoo and Bum’s case, they were already off to a bad start, as the reason they remained with each other was solely for reasons pertaining to their poor mental health.

At the time Sangwoo saved Bum in the military, Bum still suffered from Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) -- a disorder he inferrably developed due to the fact that he grew up being constantly physically and sexually abused by the people around him. People with this illness may easily develop an infatuation for a person who shows them even the least bit of care; It can reach the point where they begin to idolize them and see them almost as a perfect human being -- which is exactly how Bum viewed Sangwoo after he helped him to escape a rape attempt. The likely specific term for what Sangwoo was to Bum is a Favourite Person (FP). To an individual suffering from Borderline Personality Disorder, their FP is everything -- their self-worth, identity and emotional dependency all rely on this one person, making them the center of their lives. In contrast to this sincere fondness, the only reason Sangwoo kept Bum alive was because of the man’s resemblance to his late mother -- the one person in his life who he truly loved. While his father was abusive and negligent, his mother tried her best to care for her son even while her own mental stability wasn’t so great either. Even though it was implied that he was responsible for the murder of both his mother and father in high school -- getting away with it scotch-free because of how perfectly executed his plan was -- he still shared a special bond with the woman, allowing her existence follow and continue to torutue him mentally as he grew older. When he saw Yoonbum, he felt as if she had been somewhat resurrected, or at least he could pretend so by dressing him up in his mother’s clothes and making him cook and do the chores; He also played the husband role by abusing and assaulting Bum just as his father did to his mother -- mostly just out of his own nature. Sangwoo had his own issues, “mommy issues,” and he initially needed to keep Bum alive so he could fulfill his own longing desires. Knowing the man’s character though, things wouldn’t end there and instead headed down a very gruesome and frightful path.

The very reasons that the two were drawn to each other we’re even more evident the longer they lived under the same roof. While Yoonbum continued to recall the perfect image he had of Sangwoo in his head, Sangwoo continued to manipulate the man in order to satisfy his own needs. A healthy relationship cannot be based on deceit, because one person will end up victimized instead of loved.

Oh Sangwoo is a sadistic sociopath with a history of kidnapping, abusing, raping and torturing innocent people, and because of his illness, he shows feels and shows no remorse for his actions and even proceeds to kill off his victims as they pleaded in objection. What some people don’t understand is that when Sangwoo met Bum, the only reason he treated him differently was not because he thought of him as special, but because he had a personal agenda that included making Bum think that was the truth and that he was indeed the favoured victim among many. It’s no surprise with the man’s manipulative personality that he would enjoy planting a lie in Bum’s head to make him stay and continue to do as he says, and this is confirmed whenever he returned back to his old destructive habits even after showing the man acts of affection. Yes, Sangwoo spared Bum’s life, clothed him and fed him, but as their bond grew, his narcissistic attitude was still more apparent than ever.

Upon meeting Bum for the first time, Sangwoo didn’t hesitate to aggressively break his ankles to prevent his mobility, he left the man within the dark confinement of his basement for a certain period of time before letting him out only after he had gained his trust. He made him sit in a chair to wash dishes and make dinner because he could no longer stand. Sangwoo also constantly dragged Bum down with derogatory words and statements every chance he could get, this included calling him a “retard,” and referring to him as a “disgusting” and “filthy” human being. As confirmed by the author, Sangwoo is also heterosexual, which is further proved by the homophobic remarks he made towards a significantly older man who was sexually attracted to him while murdering him with Bum’s aid. This fact alone is another one that should justify a strong point that demonstrates the true hostility of their relationship -- Yoonbum never gave his consent to have sex with Sangwoo, nor did he allow it to happen because “he wanted it.” He specifically used phrases such as, “No,” “Stop,” and “It hurts,” implying that sometimes there was no mutual agreement when they had sex and Sangwoo had actually raped him several times.

People with Borderline Personality Disorder have been reported to have difficulties seeing the faults in their partner -- this explains why Bum still held on to him. He chose to stay when he had the chance to escape, and with tears rolling down his face from excruciating pain he still told Sangwoo he loved him. In a scene where Bum is left alone with the police as they investigate the suspicions they have surrounding him, he questions them saying, “Could you kiss somebody like me? Could you love somebody like me?” As he believes nobody but Sangwoo could answer yes to those two questions, convinced that Sangwoo really does have feelings for him. It’s saddening to know that the poor man had successfully been lured into a trap, and because of his mental health it would be much harder for him to realize it.

To the readers that think, “Sangwoo and Yoonbum needed each other,” -- You’re not completely wrong. They did need each other in the way that they found somewhat of a saneness from each other’s presence, each using one another to each other’s benefit. But being together at the same time built on their insanity, as the presence of Sangwoo’s mother seemed to grow even more prevalent with Bum, who resembled her, also in the picture, and Yoonbum growing so unhealthily attached to Sangwoo that he constantly feared of abandonment and turned the sociopath into the only source of his happiness. They needed each other, but not for the right reasons. They were attached to each other, but there was no love, otherwise it would reflect throughout the story. One of the most debate-worthy scenes that challenge this fact is when Sangwoo is reported by an old lady in the hospital, the one that had ended his life, that he was calling out Bum’s name throughout the night as he lay in his deathbed. Those were his final words, and Yoonbum’s final word was also Sangwoo’s name before he was very well implied to have been hit by a car while he chased an illusion of the man he “loved.” Even I almost felt that this was solid proof that even through the tough and terrible of their relationship, deep inside, the two really were in love but could not express it in the right way due to their mental health issues -- after all, what someone makes of their final moments before death is much more meaningful than most of what they've done in their life entirely. But I came to realize that the only way I could support this relationship would be if they had met in an alternate universe where they did not suffer from such dreadful childhood trauma that made them into the hurting individual they had become before meeting each other. As difficult as it is for me to picture the two with different partners, it would be best if the two had not met at all as they only fed into the severity of their conditions.

[pearl-blue-musings]

Perchance to Meet pt 6.

Hi fam!

Sorry this took awhile to come out! This took lots of more of my time to come up with and I wanted it to be what I had envisioned so it took longer!

Pairing: Aizawa Shouta x fem!reader

Warnings: slight abuse, mentions of abuse, some angst and some fluff?

I think this will have one more part but yeah we’re getting near the end! 

(Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4) (Part 5) (Part 7)

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

The pride Aizawa has for his students is off the charts as he sits with some of them. He, along with some other well-known heroes have been called in for an extensive mission. Sir Nighteye and his assistant and sidekick Bubble Girl go over the mission.

He takes in the details about Overhaul, or also known as Chisaki Kai and logs it into his memory. He also takes in how his students are handling the grueling information, most notably being careful of his common problem child who ran into the little girl they’re planning on saving as well. He watches the videos of the surveillance done on the men that Overhaul keeps company. Watching for patterns, where they go, what they do etc. However, a particular picture and set of videos cause his heart to skip a beat.

There is Overhaul, at two places he knows all too well.

If Aizawa is panicked he doesn’t show it. But he’s internally trying to find the connection as to why he would visit the places (Y/n) works. It could all be a pure coincidence and that’s what he’s hoping for. There’s no way she would associate herself with someone like that willingly. If she was that kind of person, he would have detected it on her and not gotten himself involved with her. But what if he’s wrong? He has been wrong before, but he knows he isn’t wrong about this.

The meeting ends with final words and plans on what to do. There are some who are unsure of the plan, especially if it involves children aiding them but he knows better. The plan seems entirely logical so long as everything accordingly and everyone brings their A game.

Aizawa prepares to leave the meeting room when he is stopped by a gloved hand. “Sir Nighteye needs to see you briefly, can you hang back?” Aizawa shrugs his shoulders at Bubble Girl and goes back to his seat. He sees Mirai set up another slide show and begins to wonder what this is about and why only he was held back.

“Eraserhead, we’ve done some other research and recon and would like to inform you of another side mission along with the main task at hand.”

He sees Shouta nod and he urges Bubble Girl to show him the video.

“We found this video the other day. The date shows this happened a couple weeks ago. There used to not be a camera here but because of an incident involving an employee, the establishment added it.”

When the video starts, all he sees is Overhaul, his minions, and what seems to be a client buying his product. He starts to take in the background and notices he’s been there many times before. He keeps his stoic face as the video fast forwards to more action. Something happens and part of the camera is covered in blood, obstructing the view partially. Then he sees the door of the building open up

And there she is.

The expression on her face is one he’d hoped he’d never have to see. She’s terrified, flabbergasted, and now covered in blood. He can’t hear anything but now he sees that all eyes are on her. He can see (Y/n) attempting to bargain with who he assumes is Chisaki, and then for him the unthinkable happens.

Her body goes limp as she’s being apprehended and taken away.

Aizawa isn’t one to lose his cool, but that made him jump out of his seat. The two heroes in front of him glance at each other and stop the video. They give him a couple minutes to truly digest what he saw.

“We know that you had a special connection to (Y/f/n). Overhaul not only has a child, but an innocent civilian that was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Clearly, stopping Overhaul and saving the child are most important, but this young woman has been considered missing.” Sir Nighteye pauses and then continues.

“We had to keep quiet about all aspects of this mission and keep this info from the public in order for the plan to work and succeed. I’m sure you understand.” He practically answers Aizawa’s unasked emotional question.

Aizawa sighs deeply, “I get it. What does this have to do with me?”

“You might be the only one who can rescue her. There’s already a lot on this mission that we don’t want to overwhelm anyone, but since it’s you we know you can handle it. Besides, she knows you.”

He can’t get the sight of (Y/n) being hurt and taken out of his head. This is what he wanted to avoid by being with her but apparently not. No matter what he does or tries people he cares about will be in danger because of him. So, logically, what should he do with his emotions and the woman that has invaded every fiber of his being?

He contemplates his next move as he steps out to see his students.

******************

The sound of a metal door clicking closed rouses her from her sleep. Her eyes are slow to adjust to the dim lights that barely reflect off of the cold tile floors beneath her. The four walls around her are plain, nothing on them except for the 28,643 spots that litter them. (Y/n) tugs at her arm and remembers that her arms are chained to a nearby wall. The chains are long enough for her to move with limited mobility but not enough for her to reach the door.

Her eyes and nose lead her to an object on the ground by the door. It looks like her morning meal as she crawls over to the bowl, plate, and cup. She’s starting to regret telling him what her favorite go to breakfast was because this was all she’s had for… Shit how long has she been here? A week? Two weeks?

Her first couple of days she resisted eating anything that was given to her as a form of protest. That earned her Overhaul using his quirk on her, whimpers and yells emitting from her throat at the pain until he put her back to normal. The next time she disobeyed him, he took it out on Eri. The way the “no” escaped her lips, dry from lack of use and childlike in her fear, he knew her soft spot.

Which is why she’s eating now. (Y/n) must be close to to Eri’s room or something because she hears her screams almost as if they’re right in the room with her. It rattles her to the bone, hearing such an innocent girl screaming, yelling, and thrashing in pain. It made her sick. How could that man, no monster, do this? She can’t believe she fell for his act, those eyes and that voice that could persuade anyone got to her. The feel of bile fills her throat the more she thinks about him, Eri, and where she is.

(Y/n) can’t help the tears that fall freely down her face as she thinks of Eri. But also of Aizawa. Fuck, she wishes he was here assuring her that everything would be fine. He’d save her from here, they’d apologize for all the words and nasty feelings shared and then live happily ever after the end.  But she knew better than to think like that. All that did was earn her talks with Overhaul. Sometimes he wouldn’t lay a hand on her but if she was acting out he’d just grab her jaw aggressively, playing with her inevitable death, but always repeating the same things:

“You shouldn’t have been there, Angel”

“Well I did want you to myself eventually but I’m sad it had to be this way”

“Eri would be very upset if you didn’t eat, she hates hearing you cry”

“This is all your fault you know”

Yesterday’s was a new and longer one

“No one will come save you, you quirk can’t save you. You’re such an admirable person that I wanted to love but with your insistence that some hero, someone with a quirk unfit for this world will come to you, you are just like them. Disposable.”

The bruises on her jaw had just healed from the last time but they can match the ones that fade and return on her wrists and anywhere some random hooligan had dared touched her.

(Y/n) finishes her food and pushes the empty dishes toward the door. Usually they’re picked up immediately, followed by pairs of feet walking outside. However, this morning is different. No one comes to pick up her dishes and there’s no one walking outside her door.

What the hell is going on?

Her confusion deepens as her door is swung open forcefully, knocking the plates over making a loud sound. She defensively puts up her hands to block out the person and the light emanating from behind them. When nothing happens, she moves her hands and sees another person she’s come to hate strongly. The white haired man in front of her says nothing as he walks up to her, noticing her body flinching upon their close proximity. Most of his body is covered in a long white jacket and there’s another plague mask hanging out of a pocket. She can feel his breath on her cheek as he unlocks her chains, toying with her emotional state.

Once the cuffs fall freely to the floor, he grabs her wrist and commands, “Come with me.”

********************

It was hard for him to believe what he was seeing in front of him but he pounced into action. Aizawa immediately sees Overhaul takes his quirk. Upon entering the strange cave, he sees the girl in question being protected and shielded by two of some of the best students he’s ever seen. Before he’s able to do more damage and prevent Overhaul from using his quirk further, he’s abruptly taken away from the fight from one of his lackeys, his right-hand man if he is correct.

He lands in an unfamiliar room and is on high alert but thrown off from being attacked. Eraserhead quickly does surveillance but is cut short by an attack from behind. He feels his body slowing and only slightly panics. Then he hears a voice above him begin to talk and mumble to himself about Overhaul and their plan. With his face and body connected to the floor he’s rendered immobile. For the most part he tunes out the figure looming over him until particular words catch his ears.

“I do want to kill you, but it would be better with an audience don’t you think?”

A strong hand grips Aizawa’s hair and force his eyes up and ahead. It takes a while for his eyes to adjust to the room. In front of him is a chair; how long had that been there? What’s more important is who’s sitting in the chair.

It takes more strength than he would like to admit when he sees (Y/n)’s limp. She’s breathing, barely but breathing. He can’t fully investigate the state of her body but he can tell that they had gotten to her. Fuck, he wants to reach out and pull her close but there’s a number of factors preventing him from doing so; other than being held down against his will.

“It’s pitiful really, to see you with such a unique quirk reduced to this. I can feel how much this hurts you to see her but I’ll end that soon.”

The blade that was meant for the black haired man never came, as the door behind them is burst open and Chronostasis is apprehended. Aizawa reclaims mobility in his body and pushed himself off the ground to see an injured Suneater holding onto an unconscious Lemillion. Relief floods his body as the police capture the Shie Hassaki aide and exhales deeply. He turns on his heel quickly to find (Y/n) and get her the help she needs.

“Eraserhead, who is that?”

He approaches her body and kneels down. “Hey, (Y/n) can you hear me?” He lightly taps her cheek and sees remnants of bruising. He lowers his voice so no one else can hear, “Kitten please wake up.” He continues to trace his fore finger and thumb along her cheek to rouse her.

His heart drops when he notices her lips move. “Ung, Sho-“

“Sh sh sh,” he coos, “don’t talk. I’m going to pick you up okay?” Aizawa carefully checks for any restraints and seeing that there are none, picks her up bridal style and begins to take you toward the police.

Now that they are in the light, tears threaten to build behind his eyes upon really seeing her. Discolored skin around her wrists, neck, jaw, and ankles lets him know that she was held here for too long and was possibly, no for sure hurt and abused. Aizawa does his best to keep her body still while rushing toward the surface where he knows she can get help. He feels her cold finger touch his neck making him stop. “We have to keep moving, kitten.”

“Where’s Eri… He was, he was hurting her. Please we have to…”

His almond eyes soften. Even though she’s hurting and in pain, probably closer to death than she’d ever been before her heart still goes out to others. Aizawa isn’t entirely sure of her whereabouts but he needs to keep pressing on. “She’s safe. She’s being rescued just like you are right now.”

(Y/n) nods and then rests her head to his chest clinging on to the familiar amidst the strange. The police and a couple other heroes are all heading toward the top of the building to meet up with the rest of the teams involved. Aizawa holds her tightly against his chest, relishing in this feeling that he knows won’t last forever.

Upon reaching the morning light and bumbling sounds of sirens and commotion, Aizawa treks toward an open ambulance. He drops her off with a medic and hurriedly asks them to look over (Y/n). He hesitantly walks away but turns to see your face, an all too familiar look of knowing that he never wants to see. Her eyes are telling him to go because it’s his job and his job comes first. He’s gonna come back he promises, once he finds Eri.

When (Y/n) wakes again, she finds herself surrounded by bright white and beeps. It doesn’t take as long for her to come to her senses. There’s a drip inserted into her arm and exhales. She notices the wraps and bandages around her previously open wounds and bruises. They are still sensitive to the touch as a reminder that everything that happened had actually occurred. She’s lucky to see clock and calendar near her bed.

Two weeks.

Two whole weeks she was gone. Did anyone notice? How was her shop? Oh God what about Eri? What about the little girl she yearned to see again but couldn’t what happened-

“You’re awake.”

Aizawa stands in the doorway of her room with a small grin. He’s not entirely sure what to do. Is he allowed to rush to you and comfort you? He came out relatively unscathed, but has to deal with a student and a colleague who lost a mentor and friend. That was harsh losing the one who told him about (Y/n)’s whereabouts in the first place.

Her voice is still hoarse from lack of use and malnutrition. “How’s Eri?”

“She’s having fevers from over using her quirk but she’s stable. I’ll be staying by her side to monitor her with my quirk.”

“I see.”

Silence falls between the former couple as they both struggle to find words to say. He knows he needs to go check on Eri but he knows he’s needed and wanted here. He slowly walks in and shuts the door behind him. The look on her face is one of shock, probably because she didn’t expect the work driven man to stay with her, a mere civilian.

“I shouldn’t have said what I said.” Aizawa takes a chair and goes up to her bed to be closer, his eyes never leaving hers. “I wanted to protect you from this. I didn’t want you hurt because of me.” He pauses to collect his next words.

“(Y/n), I,” he looks up to meet her gaze, “I love you. So much so that it scared me. But what scared me most these last couple of months was not knowing how you were, or where you were. And when I found out that you were taken, I couldn’t show it but I was frightened.”

“Shota…”

He squeezes her hand that snuck its way into hers. “No please, let me finish. I’ve lost someone close to me before and I didn’t want to feel that again. My job, my students, they are my life. Then you showed up and changed everything. I was happy and content for once but once the threat of villains increased I figured it was better to have you alive and hate me, than be dead because you loved me.

“I couldn’t do that to someone I care about.” All the emotions Aizawa had held in for too long come flowing out. Small and few tears fall down his face as he buries his head into (Y/n)’s bed. “I didn’t want to say what I said that day, but I wanted to protect you and myself,” his confession comes out muffled from his face being buried in the sheets. He feels a dry hand caress his cheek and he meets her gaze.

“Shota,” she cries, tears falling freely. “I missed you so much.” She coughs as her crying causes her to hiccup. “I wanted to be mad but I couldn’t. I wanted to hate you but I couldn’t. And I wanted-mmph!”

Aizawa interrupts her wailing by placing his lips on hers carefully. He holds her face in his hands and wipes her tears gently with is thumb. The simple gesture sends butterflies to her stomach that she hasn’t felt in too long as they separate.

“Hi.”

“Hi.”

“God Kitten I missed you.” He brings her in for another kiss, this one stronger and more intentional than before. The kiss was filled with unspoken apologies, whispers of love, and admittance of wrongdoing. The hero was careful with (Y/n) as he pulled her toward him, to hold onto her a little tighter. A cough breaks the spell cast on the two rekindled lovers. Aizawa does his best to hide his annoyance and the awful timing at whomever was at the door. It amused (Y/n) to see that he hadn’t changed too much.

“Um, Sen-I mean Eraserhead? They need you to see Eri-chan. Should I leave or-?”

“No Midoriya, it’s fine,” he scoffs out. “Give me a few minutes and I’ll be right there okay?”

The young up and coming hero was clearly flustered at the scene in front of him and from his teacher calling him by his real name. “Yes sir! But shouldn’t we be using our hero names?”

“We’re safe here. Also, this is long overdue but this is (Y/f/n)

“My girlfriend.”

“Girlfriend?!” The green haired teen kindly meets her and bows to the both of them as he takes his leave. He turns around to view the couple one more time. He notes that he’s never seen his teacher look at anyone so softly, well maybe with Eri-chan but…

“Geez, why do I always have to be the first one to know crazy news?”

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

Taglist!: @kiribaku-queen @cupcake-rogue @shinsouskitten @prk-pyo @therealwalmartjesus @susceptible-but-siriusexual 

[strayraccoon]

A Taste of Venderbight

A continuation of my crossover between Kekkai Sensen and Fallen London / Sunless Sea. [Link] Turned out bigger than I expected. Again, apologize in advance for mobile users

Everything in the Neath is absurd. You prepared yourself the moment you were taken into the Neath as London sunk, whatever the subterranean world would throw at you, you were determined to be relentless. Yet the absurd scene before you had thrown you off your feet. Figuratively and literally.

Darcy Pearce's lips met Klaus', for a brief seconds which felt like an eternity to you. Your literary rival seemed to be savoring Klaus' lips to the fullest before they parted. Klaus became extremely tense afterwards, the back of his neck and ears turned beet crimson. Darcy Pearce looked at you triumphantly, lifting his chin ever upwards, exhibiting his dominance.

'You thought you're going to kiss him first. But alas, it was me, Darcy' 

Your descend into Venderbight madness started a year after Darcy Pearce's attempt to pin you as one of revolutionary party supported, ending your literary career prematurely. Fortunately, an unlikely savior whisked you away minutes before the constables could get a hold of you. With aid from a vigilante group, Libra, you managed to clear your name, send your rival to exile, and was invited into the Shuttered Palace as strawberry on top. It didn't come at a price, obviously, but one you're willing to pay.

As one of new member of Libra, you're tasked in observing individuals and social circles within the Shuttered Palace, therefore adding another layer of complexity on your daily activities. There were other observers like you posted throughout the city. Compiled reports on odd activities and slight rumors might save someone in need. Similar issue occurred to your case as well. One of Libra members overheard Pearce's drunken boast and reported it to the inner circle. Hence sparking the incident.

For a year, you have been spending most of your time in the Shuttered Palace, reciting your poem and novels. Socializing with the higher echelon of society. Other than that, you would be in Libra's headquarters, bringing some snacks you smuggled from the palace's kitchen. Most of your time in the headquarters would be compiling reports and chatting with the lunch trio and Chain, sharing the day's loot (snacks and takeaways). On occasion, you would be joining the actions. Hard shooting lessons from K.K often saved you from a pinch. Though, you would be mostly running along with Leo in not-a-fighter club or getting thrown around by other members with better affinity at fighting. Libra's most feared enemy would be the vampires, elder beings who maintain their immortality by drinking blood. This is a good reason for Libra to provision their members with silver equipment. As for you, silver bullets and cross as a charm against blood-suckers.

On brief chances, you would be sitting in Klaus' greenhouse, drinking tea with him and discussing literary work. He's definitely educated in literature field and a good critic. Klaus, Steven, and K.K gave you a lot of inputs on your works before they are submitted to your editor. The Libra's executive director would sometime request that you would tone down the 'Master of Crime' character in your novels, knowing he's based on Klaus himself. To that request you would simply grin mischievously. Long story short, brief chances became an unspoken arrangement and you always looked forward to each 'Tea Party'.

On one day, Steven and Klaus mentioned a trip to Venderbight, one of the bigger Tomb Colonies due north of Fallen London. Death does not come naturally in the Neath. Those who died would remain as rotting corpses. These unfortunate souls would spend the rest of their remaining time, as much as their flesh allowed, in the tomb colonies. Far away enough from the living beings, preventing them from unnerving the Londoners. It is a fate shared by everyone living in the Neath.

'To Venderbight it is, we have to make the trip' Steven said as he set down a filer on Klaus' desk. His eyes were blood-shot red and stubbles decorated his chin, Steven had been overworked yet once again. 'I've made arrangement for the other items, but only this one require further inquiries'

The owner of the desk ceased playing chess-like game called Prosfair and read Steven's file. Klaus considered for a moment, scratching his chin while reading the file. 'I suppose so, we can't afford to turn this opportunity sour. Gilbert, could you make the arrangement?'

'Certainly, Young Master' Gilbert nodded gracefully, ever ready at his position behind Klaus. The butler didn't exhibit his utmost attention in his expression, yet he noticed your excitement. 'Who else will be going? I see our poeta is interested as well, ohohoho'

'May I?' you asked, but it was clear to the others that you were excited at the prospect.

Klaus covered his mouth elegantly in order to hide an amused smile, yet he was beaming 'I don't see any reason to prohibit you from it. I remember you need a struck of inspiration for your upcoming work'

'I did mention something like that' you answered and tried to recall whether you did mention suffering from a writer's block during one of your tea parties. You didn't catch Steven and Gilbert grinning.

'Oho~' . 'Heehe..'

'This is going to very much exciting! I have never left London before. After it's sunk, mind' you admitted honestly. 'To be fair though, I could not even remember London before it's covered in dark smokes and low hanging grey clouds'

'You're pretty giddy for going to place you were about to be exiled at' Steven commented non-chalantly, sipping his black coffee as he returned to his seat.

'No need to remind me of that'

Despite having almost exiled into the tomb colony yourself, you were intrigued in visiting Venderbight. You thought it would be a good experience and a chance to seek inspiration outside the humdrum of the Fifth City. A simple escapade away from London's stuffy air filled with smoke, sewage odor, and cheap musk. Away from prying eyes and gossiping noblemen in the Shuttered Palace.

You mused at the thought of Venderbight, your mind racing with the possibilities of stories unfolding within. A battle between a protagonist and bitter rival, perhaps? Chasing the villain through maze-like alleyways, ending it with a duel where only one escapes. The villain received unnatural power from an unknown patron, per chance? You were giddy with the possibility.

Ships of all kind and origin docks in Wolfstack Harbor, coming from all direction in Unterzee. The Docks itself were bustling with activity, with various produce/merchandise shipped in and out. Harbormaster and constables busy inspecting the cargo, ensuring there were no contrabands brought into Fallen London. Should one was caught carrying contrabands, there will be huge fine involved and possibly free lodging in prison. There were sailors both on and off duty traipsing about the harbor. There were also 'land lubbers' like you, who seek passage to other islands in the other side of Unterzee, far beyond home waters of London.

Strange wonders were in the far reaches of Unterzee. Iron Republic, elusive Elder Continent due south, an artificial sun callen Dawn Machine, an undergound Volcano, a palace made of ice due north, Seas of Coral, the Khanate, Fathomking's Hold where drowned dead reside, and so many other wondrous locales you wish to visit. For the time being, Venderbight beckons.

You walked along the docks, carrying a small suitcase for the travel, passing a few bars where fishermen and sailors alike enjoying their pints of beer during shore leave. The atmosphere were rowdy but honest, unlike masked companies in the Shuttered Palace. From within each tavern and bars, sea shanties could be heard. It gave off an impression that the sailors brought the Unterzee with them onto the land. Alas, you couldn't stay and listen for too long. You carried on until you reached a fish market.

Near the fish market you could see stalls selling seafood dishes. Most of them were using Unterzee fish instead, but they were delectable still. There were London staples such as fish and chip or fish pie. More exotic establishment offered sliced raw fish or cured fish. On good days, there would be fresh sea urchin on sale. Easterner fish market would provide a variety of fresh catch and cured products for specific clientele.

For a London-bred such as you, fish and chip or pie would be a more reasonable choice compared to those heavy on spice. Observing both stall owners preparing their dishes, you were mulling over which you would buy. Fish pie with gravy and mashed potato or fried fish and chip. Skewered grilled fish. Fresh clam with simple lemon and parsley dressing. Those were hard contender to choose from. In the end you chose fish and chips because the owner provided a practical paper cone made of old Gazette papers for travelers on the go.

'Sauce or vinegar?' he asked, pointing at two bottles which obviously contained the forementioned sauce and vinegar. He seemed to be anticipating your answer, so did the pie stall owner behind him.

'Vinegar' you answered, thinking you'll need something acid and fresh for fried food.

'Good choice there, always trust anyone who prefers vinegar' the stall owner grinned as he liberally poured vinegar over your portion of fish and chips.

'Please' the fish pie stall owner beside him scoffed 'Nothing beats fish and thick sauce'

'That's why you're stuck selling pie and I sell chips, damn bastard' replied the fish and chips stall owner 'Here you go, extra chips on the house for your friend'

'Eh, sure thanks. Friend?' You received the chips gratefully. The moment you turned your back, you found Klaus standing behind you. He was wearing a travel coat over his usual vest and suit. A blue shawl was left hung on his coat instead of tied around his neck, which made him appeared akin to Italian mafia don you saw in still movies. None of the stall owners were taken aback with Klaus appearance as they were used to shady characters. Gilbert was beside him, carrying a small trunk. Then you realized the stall owner was referring to them. 'Oh'

'Welcome, welcome. Young Master! Try a bit of my fish and chip, you'll get hooked in no time!'

'Don't listen to this bollocks, grab me pie instead. Made with quality dough and fresh eel directly from local fish market'

'Interesting' Klaus muttered after taking and tasting one of your piece of chip.

'Have you never had this before?'

'Unfortunately, no. Madam was quite strict with Young Master's upbringing. ' It was Gilbert who answered your question as Klaus was busy eating your fish and chip eagerly. Humming cheerfully as he did so. When you looked at your paper cone, there was nothing left.

'Eh...’ 

'Young Master...'

'M-my apologies, I'll buy you a fresh portion' Klaus stammered, realizing he had practically eaten your meal.

'Glad you like it, Young Master! Vinegar or sauce?' the stall owner grinned, clearly amused by the scene unfolding before him. He had prepared another batch for freshly fried fish and potatoes ready on his drying tray. To emphasize his question, he pointed towards his sauce bottles with vinegar and sauce within.

Klaus pondered for a second then said cheerfully, 'Let's have both, then we can share and compare. Also, one portion of fish pie please. Gilbert, I remember you talked about eating fish pie in the docks. So this one here is for you'

'Indeed I did, so you remembered it, Young Master' Gilbert said cheerfully.

'There's people like this too, huh?' the fish and chip stall owner commented as he prepared both portion as requested. 

The pie stall owner simply shrugged 'Nothing beats fresh fish, eh!'

'Yep, yep' replied the chips stall owner 'Can you even imagine curing fish? Hear tell people up in Norway eats rotten sharks!'

'Eh, remember that one fish cook in Uptown? He used to cook strangest of catch. From deep in Unterzee. I'd say our Surface brothers are far better compared to him'

Klaus listened to the stall owners chattering about an odd duck of a fish cook intently, at least until they handed him his orders. Klaus and you shared portions of fish and chips with vinegar and sauce, while Gilbert keeps his pie until he returned to Libra headquarters.

The three of you reached the dock where the sea vessel which would take you to Venderbight was docked. Some ship hands were busy working on the ship's cargo.  Another were taking notes of the ship's cargo and inventory. You recognized some crates of wines and mushroom for export purposes. There were separate cargo space reserved for ship supplies, whether spare parts or crew and guest meal. Then you noticed a stack of wooden coffin rattling some distance away from the other cargo. You knew right away those coffins contained tomb-colonists.

'Scary bunch, 'eh? Pay 'em no mind. They'll rot in the cargo hold' one of the sailors addressed you as he noticed your uneasy gaze towards the coffins containing tomb-colonists. He then pointed at a well-dressed man nearby. He was talking with Steven and K.K, who had arrived at the Docks earlier 'Captain's over there'

Steven noticed the three of you approaching and waved his hand. 'Took you long enough...anything left for me?' he said in pleasant tone, as he peeked into paper cones both you and Klaus held. He took one from the batch with thick sauce.

'Bah, sauce lover' commented the Captain. He turned towards the newcomers afterwards 'Welcome to my ship, the Odyssey. You'll have a fine trip to Venderbight, no problem. We'll just have a brief stop at Hunter's Keep then straight to Tomb Colony. Hopefully there would be no trouble aside from clouds of sea bats. We'll have no encounter with Sea Crabs enroute to Venderbight. Unless you're asking for a detour to Stone Sphynx or something'

'I'll leave the route planning to your discretion, good Captain' Klaus said as he bowed slightly, to which the Captain returned politely. In turn he addressed K.K 'How's your children, K.K. Will they be fine with you away from home for some time?'

'No need to worry, my husband is taking care of them' K.K answered, then glared at Steven 'It'd be better if I didn't become a pinch hitter, though'

Steven merely laughed weakly.

'I thought you were coming' you exclaimed in surprise.

'Unfortunately, I'd have to hold on. There's an incident in Veilgarden again, there's a lot of feather ruffled this time around' Steven said as he scratched his head. 'That's for me to take care of, you three have fun in tomb colony'

Klaus nodded excitedly, K.K sighed, and you replied excitedly. The Captain then called foe the threw of you to embark on the ship. Steven stayed with your group until the three of you are settled in respective rooms and leave minutes just before the ship departs from dock. He had to run back into city proper the moment he saw pillar of fire coming from the general direction of the city, with Gilbert behind him.

The Odyssey embarked out of Wolfstack Docks after thorough custom inspection and inventory checks. It's steam whistle resounded throughout the docks, signaling a departing ship into the darkness of Unterzee, far beyond home waters. Slowly but surely, the vision of home would be drowned beneath dark horizon. You looked at Fallen London from a distance. The gigantic city would be engulfed by darkness were not for its skyline and a certain pillar of fire somewhere within the cityscape.

 As It was the first time ever you sailed from Fallen London, constantly swaying ship was only the first of your woes. It didn't take long for continuously swaying ship and waves to induce seasickness into you. With your stomach churning and head spinning, you spend most of the time sleeping inside your cabin, utterly defeated. Even so, you found it difficult to sleep as the ship constantly sway due to unterzee waves.

Klaus and K.K took turns in checking your condition. It was mostly the nervous Libra leader, bringing mineral water and light meal.  In general he tried to make you feel  more comfortable. You swore you could hear K.K giggling outside your cabin.

The only times you were able to walk free on the decks was the moment The Odyssey docks in Hunter's Keep. An isolated island not far from the Fifth City, just at the border of home waters. A solitary mansion erected on the island. The captain was making supply drops for three noble sisters who lived in the island. All the while you and your company waits inside the ship as the captain warned you against taking a stroll around the island. It was for a reason he would not divulge but a good one nevertheless.

'What sort of affair are you having in Venderbight? Not many deliberately visit the tomb colony while they're…alive' you said to Klaus on one moment you're free of seasickness and the confines of your constantly swaying cabin. You recalled tales from Venderbight. Colonies of dead men wrapped in bandages. Only the bandages were not to cover wounds but rather tying rotting flesh together. Sea captain would bring tomb-colonist coffins whenever they are passing by Venderbight. Simple delivery made for good echoes, which in turn would be used for either a night in Venderbight bar or buying supplies.

Klaus, who leaned his arms on the deck's railings, hair constantly swaying under cold sea winds, answered, 'We're hosting a meeting with a dignitary coming from the Surface. For all purposes and intentions, we need to leave a good impression. Therefore we need to recruit a good chef. I heard from some of our friends in the Palace, there's a talented one working in Venderbight. He used to have a restaurant near palace district'

You knew exactly who he was talking about, as one of palace dignitaries couldn't stop raising praises, 'The Bandaged Poissonier in the Vengeance of Jonah, I recall. Supposedly prepare divine seafood dishes. Combining seven flavors while maintaining its balance? How is that supposed to happen?'

'It happens when you've cooked for prominent figures in the Neath. Before his journey to Tomb Colony, this poissonier used to cook for the Khan and even the Empress herself' K.K explained as he leafed through a dossier Steven left behind in a hurry. 'Hmmhmm, quite a reputation he built. I can't wait to sample his dishes~ I wish I could bring some for my hubby~'

'That is something to look forward to' Klaus said to you, encouraging you to be patient on the journey to Venderbight.

You could feel the blood rush to the back of your neck, and the edges of your ears felt like burning. You addressed K.K then, 'You look pretty fine, K.K. Do you sail a lot?'

K.K grinned, knowing full well your attempt at misdirection. 'I traveled for some time, yes. That's before I met my husband. One tend to settle down after establishing a family after all. What do you think, Klaucchie? Do you think you will settle down in the Fifth City?'

Klaus inclined his head, pondering for a moment then answered. 'Most likely, this is where our work is needed. Are you implying we should broaden our efforts to Khanate and Iron Republic as well? I must admit there's little information we have gained from each...'

''No,no, Klaucchie. That's not what I meant. Do you think you'll be able to establish a family here in the Neath is what I'm asking' K.K sighed in disbelief how gullible and serious the Libra leader is.

''Uh? Oh...um" Klaus uttered in exasperation after realizing K.K's real question. He scratched the back of his neck. 'I...suppose so"

''Hmmhmm, got a candidate in mind?" K.K inquired further, both in tease and pure curiosity.

You thought this has gone into a dangerous region, so you quickly attempted to divert the topic ,'So...so! Did you know that Norway men eats rotten shark and shark blood pudding?!'

''Wh-why yes! I had heard that sharks in Norway waters are extremely venomous and have tougher skin. So the locals have to cure them for at least a month before consuming the meat. Hear tell the shark meat is extremely pungent" Klaus chimed in, panicking.

''Oh, you two" K.K muttered in disappointment, but secretly was happy with the development.

Venderbight, the tomb colony where your rival was exiled into, was as dire as you heard in stories provided by sailors and Singing Mandrake guests. The city was dark yet unnervingly functioning. There was unnerving silence hung about the city, as well as permeating odor of preservatives. A dark humongous pillar stood tall in the middle of the city. On it's base were a few residence building and its top couldn't be viewed as it was far above visible skyline of Venderbight.

On the docks were normal human mingling with bandaged men. As it was in Wolfstack Docks, the bandaged men acted as custom officers and harbormaster or workers. They  were checking the shipments, especially so for wooden coffins containing tomb colonists. Indeed the shambling 'corpses' makes you unnerved most of the time, but the atmosphere was intriguing enough to call you for a brief walk throughout the city.

Both K.K and Klaus were not affected with at all. The ship crew, on the other hand, preferred to stay on board instead of taking the chance getting a leave on shore. There were a couple of bars down in the docks, but most men wouldn't risk taking a shore leave due to their fear of tomb colonists.

The three of you navigated the city, seeking for a particular restaurant owned by this well-known poissonier, the Vengeance of Jonah. An auspicious name for a store, but it's quite catching as a lot of Londoners speaks praises of the restaurant. With its sublime seafood cuisine in general, particularly the highly praised chef himself. The Fifth City lost a prominent figure once the poisonnier

Following directions provided by bandaged locals and shopkeepers, the three of you traversed winding alleyways. Fortunately there were a few boards directing tourists and locals alike to Vengeance of Jonah. Unfortunately for you, your literary rival was waiting for you in the middle of an alleyway as if he had known of your arrival beforehand. You knew there was a risk of encountering Darcy Pearce in the tomb colony, but assured yourself the chance was low it's practically impossible.

You cursed yourself internally for not being careful enough. Before any words were traded between the two of you, Darcy Pearce approached Klaus and did the unexpected. Both of you and K.K were stunned with Darcy's action. After he finished gloating, K.K instantly drew her handgun.

'Ah, ah, ah. Is this what you guys do to polite company? I was merely greeting him. You're going to be the one drawing the first shot' Darcy claimed, his tone indicated him being on the higher ground. He lifted both of his arms in mockery before continuing, 'I did no damage to you three'

K.K was having none of it, therefore she screamed in anger 'You damaged Klaucchie innocence, damn it!' as he pulled her handgun's trigger

Darcy Pearce remained calm, letting the bullet came to him, even on the last second he made no effort to evade the pullet. In fact, the bullet went through him effortlessly, as if he was mere fog. Klaus and K.K's eyes widened witnessing the sight, knowing what entails. Darcy Pearce was no mere mortal, he had turned into vampirism. Their on the spot conjecture was supported as Darcy smiled, revealing sharp upper fangs.  

'Who did this to you?' Klaus asked after wiping his lips with the back of his hands. His gaze which normally gentle turned determined, to the point where even the hardiest of soul would relent. By every Gods in the Neath, when he gets serious, it became intense.

Darcy trembled for a bit before returning to his smug behavior, 'A benefactor, I must say. Someone who would like to appreciate my art for eternity'

'You got a name, or do they think you're too insignificant to be a real acquaintance?' storm rages inside you, which you tried hard to quell but couldn't help but unleashing it in your sentences. Your stomach churned and it was not only from seasickness that ailed you these couple of days.

Your inquire seemed to make a real dent on Darcy Pearce's pride, as your question hits the mark.  He hissed, mixing in venomous words as best as he could, 'What of it? What matters is that I've got more than enough power to defeat you, take my rightful place in the Shuttered Palace. It's too good for shitty novelist such as you'

'Standard villain speech. 0/10' you commented.

Your words managed to taunt Darcy Pearce into acting. He disappeared in one second, and another appeared right in front of you, his visage filled with pure jealousy and hatred. You pulled out your gun, trying your best to remember K.K's teaching. Klaus, knowing that Darcy is directly attacking you, quickly approached your position trying to defend you. K.K on the other hand, went on the offensive. Bullets fired, coagulated blood shield appearing near you. Darcy's frustrated scream. Everything happened at once.

'Tch. I see your over the top characters wasn't all a figment of your imagination' Darcy spat. He didn't disappear quickly enough to avoid bullet hail.

'Reality is stranger than fiction' K.K grinned, her handguns ever focused on Pearce.

'This isn't exactly the right time for literature review' Klaus interjected, but his focus remained fixed upon the rogue poet. He observed that Darcy's wound isn't healing as fast as he thought. Darcy's has not been turned long for him to have better control on his new nature.

Darcy touched his bullet wound, he wasn't pleased with the searing pain and lodged bullet inside his flesh. He quickly retreated into the darkness of Venderbight alleyway. For reasons unknown to you, you dashed from where you stood, chasing after the disappearing figure. You could barely heard Klaus calling your name as blood rushed into your head. You could feel yourself boiling in anger. Not now, not now, not ever.

You followed a trail of blood deep into old Venderbight district, the residences and buildings around you gradually became older and decrepit. To the point where walls had shattered and fallen, only a few pillars and house frame remained standing. The moment you saw Darcy's figure at the edge of your sight, you shot. The gunshot noise echoed unnervingly. Darcy continued to retreat and the dance went on. Neither of you relent in an endless carousel dance.

At one point you arrived at ruins of an amphitheater. You could see the architecture in its glorious days. But at that moment, there were only remains of a golden age and emptiness. There were thin mist around you.

Darcy appeared before you, to which you automatically shoot your gun. But at that one point where you needed the most, the gun ran out of bullets. In your rage, you forgot to reload your hard earned Carrow's Steel gun. Seeing the realization in your face, Darcy grinned, two unnaturally sharp upper fangs decorated his white teeth. He slammed you onto the floor of the amphitheater. In a quick succession he planted his booted leg onto your chest. There was not enough force to break anything, yet it was enough to push the air out of your chest.

'Lucky bastard'

He kicks

'If it weren't for you…'

He kicks

'…my…dience…'

He kicks

'MINE!...ALL… …THEM!'

You covered your face and turned into a fetal position to protect vital areas as Darcy Pearce kicked you. Without anyone backing you up, you were literally a punching bag against newly birthed vampire. As weak as he is, Darcy Pearce was stronger than a normal human. When he was satisfied kicking you, he straddled you and reached for your neck. He was about to crush your neck when his hand started burning. You weakly reached for your neck and found silver chain and cross.

'AAAAAARGH' Darcy Pearce screamed in pain as chain and cross shaped wound didn't cease to burn his flesh.

At that moment, a gunshot resounded throughout the ruined amphitheater. A silver bullet drove through Darcy's right arm. He screamed in pain. Before he could react, a numerous amount of cross-shaped spears rained down on him. Klaus crouched beside you, checking your condition. You could feel the temperature around him raised to a dangerous degree. A glint in the darkness was the only thing you need to tell you where K.K was.

Darcy Peace didn't die that easily, he appeared from under cross-shaped spears. His wounds slowly regenerated. He addressed you then, 'I'll be making waves, big enough to engulf you all in it. For now, I'll just take this small victory' to which afterwards he deliberately licked his lips in the most seductive manner he could muster.

K.K once again shot at his direction. Klaus created a spear using his blood technique. But at the time the bullets and spear about to connect with Pearce, he had turned into fog, leaving the dangerous substances planted into nearby alleyway walls.  You could hear his laughter echoing till it disappears completely. 

In the end the thought of your rival coming back with worse force behind him made your malady even worse. You returned to the ship and confined yourself inside the cabin, not before the ship's doctor tend to your injuries and preached on about how one should take care of their own welfare and health. Especially after seeing what happened to unnatural deaths in the Neath. You felt disappointed for not being able to sample the Vengeance of Jonah's finest cuisine, but you would sense nothing even if you drag yourself to the restaurant. With less swaying on the boat you managed to catch a bit of sleep. Though your dreams were not peaceful.

You woke up to the ship's steam engine noise, sound signals signifying that the ship is embarking from Venderbight docks. You forced yourself to drink some water and exited your room. Your wounds aches still. When you reached the deck, Venderbight had been some distance away. What was in lesser distance was Klaus, who once again leaned his arm on the railings.

'Hey'

'Good evening'

Klaus' greeting made you automatically checked your pocket watch. It's 22.00 in the evening. They didn't need to embark so late at night, but the crew were more than happy to put a distance from Venderbight. You sighed, the trip you looked forward to became a complete fiasco thanks to your unrelenting rival.

'How's your…wound?' Klaus asked, hesitating.

'It's still aching. Here I thought writers could only lift pens' you answered, trying to lightened the mood.

'Is that so? Good to know' Klaus replied. You caught a short chuckle between breaths. Though there's still an awkward atmosphere between the two of you.

'How's the tasting?' you asked, trying to divert your mind from Darcy's unfortunate greeting.

'There were no words best to describe it' Klaus beamed in glee, recalling the dishes he had in Vengeance of Jonah. 'They weren't jesting in regards of the chef. The poissonier will be hired for the meeting next month. His prices and kitchen requirements are steep, nevertheless it's manageable and definitely worth the investment'

'That does sound wonderful' you commented, trying to hid your disappointment.

'He doesn't do takeaways, unfortunately' Klaus said in disappointed voice, then continued 'But you'll definitely have some of his cooking on the meeting. Please look forward to it'

'Oh right, that I will' Klaus reassurance perked you up.

You couldn’t help but smile whenever Klaus was around. You were too busy imagining kinds of dishes the Poissonier would prepare for the meeting to realize that Klaus was approaching you. He slipped an index finger under your chin and slightly lifted your face. Then he brushed his lips against yours ever so gently. Taking great care that his protruding fangs did not pierce your skin. It was short, but you could sense a hit of spiciness. Heat of chilies in the background. He left at the right moment, whether Klaus realized it or not, which left you wanting for more. You could hear him muttering under his breath shyly, '…all I can do for now'.

There was an uneasy silence between the two of you, which lasted for a short time. Mostly thanks to K.K appearing at the right time, 'Oh my God, Klaucchie, that was so BOLD'

'W-wait, this is not--' 'No, no! Not what you think!'

Steven merely laughed after he finished reading the reports, in addition to K.K's testimony to chain of events. Not the rest of Libra members. Whenever either you or Klaus present, they would deliberately use words such as taste, aroma, and other culinary related vocabulary. Both of you and Klaus would be beet red whenever the shenanigans occurred, and you swore you could see some white mist exuded from the Libra's leader himself. You were seriously considering to throw a thick dictionary at the rest of your colleague in Libra, especially on Zapp who continuously harassing you, as proxy for the more pleasant souls like Chain and Leo. After all, hitting Chain would be downright impossible and improper.

'Are you writing this into a novel?' Steven asked as he grinned, once again sipping his coffee from his favorite mug. He looked more disheveled compared to he was before you left for Venderbight.

'Probably not, romance is prohibited. I think…' you said, unsure, while re-reading your report on encounter with your former rival turned mortal enemy in Venderbight '…this counts as one, yes?A drama of sorts in the Shuttered Palace would be good. The nobles don't watch romances, you see. They like it but never admit it openly. You can't arrest something that does not exist'

'I noticed'

'Now stop grinning before I make you cast Mister Darcy. You know what that entails' you hissed.

To which Steven merely raised his hands in defeat gesture, but a smug smile still remained on his face. His smile grew into an annoying grin as he saw Klaus approaching, 'Ah, here's the Hatter. Have fun, you two'