#babysitter blade on duty

[suzukamizuchi]

Blade : " this new recruit's asking the weirdest thing..."

Kafka : " hmm? such as? "

based on

[ejoym]

did you ever say how devlin lost her foot?

I talked about it forever ago but it probably got buried in the abyss of this blog so I’ll just answer it again here!

Dark Urge plot spoilers ahead.

Devlin lost her foot in the final showdown with Orin. It was a brutal fight inspired by how it actually played out in-game. Devlin is a cleric so 1v1-ing Orin’s slayer form took all of her wits. It was truly a David and Goliath kind of situation. Devlin did ultimately come out the victor but at a great cost. It felt fitting because of the bloody nature of the fight but she lost more than a foot when she killed Orin.

The two of them were once very close. The way I see it, the most important role of a Cleric of Bhaal is to train as a physician to effectively deliver Bhaalspawn. It’s a holy ritual in the temple. As a young cleric, Devlin was literally the doctor who delivered Orin from Helena’s womb.

She became Orin’s godparent. Bhaal himself tasked her with the job of mentoring Orin. It was also his cheeky punishment for Devlin’s past transgressions. Essentially Bhaal said, “Fuck you. You have babysitter duty now.” And since Orin describes having a fraught relationship with her birth mother Helena, I felt like she probably developed a closer bond with Durge to fill some of that void. It wasn’t healthy by any means…but they shared a trauma bond that helped them survive in the cult. Together they could commiserate each other’s pain.

This is why Orin felt so abandoned when Devlin started pulling away to work with Gortash and Ketheric. Especially Gortash. The pain and rage from that sense of abandonment is what led Orin to brutally maim Durge twice. First with her blade and then finally with her gnawing maw.

[spectrechosts]

Better Off Alone

The first chapter of my first longform story, posted in nine parts totalling 24,000 words. It's an 18+ story of an ill-tempered princess falling for her transfem knight while trying to rewrite her fate. If you follow this account you're going to be seeing a LOT of these two.

Full Series

Lunaeris was a princess, the youngest of six princesses of the Elven Kingdom, and she was very displeased with her life.

She lived in comfort, yes, all her needs were attended to- but she had no freedom. Her duty by birth was to be a political bargaining chip, and not even a particularly appealing one. She existed to be shopped around to the least impressive princes of other kingdoms, every royal family on the continent playing the shittiest game of matchmaker ever seen in the name of making some diplomatic gain off of their weakest heirs and heiresses.

It was, to put it lightly, pathetic. It made her feel like an object. So, when she got word that her father once again had someone for her to meet, she did what she did best.

She meandered.

She was years deep in an elaborate game of seeing exactly how far she could sabotage her own love life without being called on it, and she was very skilled. Spend far too long getting ready when she's been summoned? Why, she just had to be sure she looked absolutely perfect for her prince. Clothes painstakingly picked out of and put back into her closet, long white hair brushed over and over, to make the best possible impression. If they got off on the wrong foot because he was annoyed at waiting, well it just wasn't meant to be.

She sat in front of her mirror and began applying black makeup to her eyes. While she did style herself this way because she liked how it looked, she also liked that it made some of her particularly stuck-up suitors describe her as "dreary", "kind of off-putting", and- and this one was her favorite- "probably some kind of vile witch". Her father had only attempted to convince her not to do this once, and was easily persuaded otherwise when she pointed out that having a princess using their wares encouraged trade with the dark elves. Frankly, it was the most she had improved relations with another kingdom in her life, and she didn't even have to get married to do it.

Once she was dressed and ready, she strode out in search of more delays. At this time of day, she could swing by the gardens and waste at least fifteen more minutes.

Or at least she could have, had the king not intercepted her in the hallway.

"Ah, there you are! Come, we must hurry." He said, and Lunaeris begrudgingly followed.

"Is my suitor so impatient you had to collect me yourself?" She asked, and he shook his head.

"No suitors today I'm afraid. The sages have brought a prophecy."

"Oh." Lunaeris said, already uninterested. Her father loved prophecies, but she had always found them a bit finicky. Raised a lot of questions about whether they would have come to pass had the sages not said anything in the first place.

"Oh yes, and it's a doozy. The demon king plans to kill you."

"….Oh." She wouldn't describe that as 'a doozy', exactly.

"Yes, but don't fret! the prophecy says he fails. A hero will arrive in your hour of need and slay him with a blade of purest sunlight! And then you and the hero are to be wed! All will work out fine in the end."

"Hm."

She also wouldn't describe that as 'working out fine'.

"But I know you have misgivings about prophecies, and I wouldn't want my daughter living in fear. And that's why I sent for a bodyguard to accompany you and keep you safe until the threat has passed."

"What?"

"You know the half-giants? From the mountains? One of their best paladins is already here to make sure no harm befalls you."

"Father, I hardly need-" Lunaeris tried to protest. This prophecy was already dreadful, she did not need a babysitter on top of it.

"I know, I know, you don't want a bodyguard, but this is for the best. Give it a week, you'll hardly even notice anything's changed."

"I'll hardly notice the half-giant stalking me in full plate?"

"It's amazing what you can grow accustomed to, given time." Her father paused as they reached the throne room. "Now, you've delayed long enough. I understand there is some degree of ceremony involved, a swearing of an oath, and then you may waste time as you see fit. With your new guard."

"Very well. Since they're already here."

They entered, and the king sat on his throne and gestured for Lunaeris to stand in the center of the room, next to the largest woman she had ever seen. Her bodyguard-to-be had to be almost eight feet tall, and as broad as an ox. She looked immovable in her armor, a monument of steel adorned with a cape of white satin over her shield arm.

"I hope we haven't kept you waiting too long. My daughter has a habit of getting lost in these twisting halls."

"Not at all, your majesty." The knight said, her voice rumbling out from her great helm.

"Excellent. Please, begin whenever you're ready."

The knight knelt before her on one knee (Gods, she still came up to chest height, how big were full giants?) and removed her helmet. Lunaeris looked upon her face, and found it strikingly handsome.

"If I may have your hand, princess?" She said, holding out a gauntleted palm which Lunaeris gently took.

Finding her new knight handsome was, obviously, unacceptable. She had long since accepted that love was not for her, and did not need to be thinking about kissing anyone's beautiful square jawline or tousling their short-hewn hair.

The paladin had already gotten started on some lengthy rehearsed speech while the Princess was otherwise distracted. Paladins loved their ceremonies. Despite this, she continued to not pay attention, instead focusing on the fact that what she had thought was more cape covering the paladin's back was actually a pair of white-feathered wings. She had heard some paladins had those, but couldn't imagine they could possibly lift her into the air. They did however, look very soft.

Perhaps she would let her touch them if she asked.

"-Holy Knight of the Seventh Monastery, do swear my undying loyalty to you-"

Shit, had she missed her name? It wasn't like her to get carried away in her imagination like this.

"-your burdens shall be my burdens, your sorrows my sorrows-"

It didn't help that whatever this oath was, it sounded not entirely unlike marriage vows. Not that she had heard many other kinds of vows to compare them to. It made her ears redden to think about it.

"-for as long as I draw breath, no harm shall come to you."

She waited for the knight to continue, but she had apparently tuned in towards the end of the speech. The king clapped his hands together and stood.

"Marvelous!" He said. "Don't you feel safer already?"

"Yes, much." Lunaeris lied, and hurried back to her room, paladin in tow. She hesitated at her door.

"These are my private chambers-"

"Of course, Princess. I shall remain out here, should you need me." The knight said, her voice once again muffled by the helmet she had at some point put back on.

At least that distraction was gone.

She shut her door and flung herself onto her bed.

"Fuck. Shit. Gods damn me."

Her heart was a fortress, constructed over years to be completely inaccessible to any who dared approach.

She did not get crushes. Especially not on giant bodyguards she didn't even want around. Especially especially not when she was now prophecised to-

She cracked her door open.

"Paladin."

"Princess?"

"Your sword, is it magical?"

"No, my lady."

"Do you cast magic on it? Some kind of sunlight enchantment?"

"No, my lady. I hold no magic beyond the power of my oaths."

"Very well. Carry on."

She nodded curtly and closed the door.

-prophecised to marry someone else entirely. It was unthinkable. It would ruin her. She would simply insist to her father that she didn't need a guard, or at least not this specific one.

She cracked her door open again.

"…Could you remind me what your name was, my knight?"

"Kallixenia, Princess."

"May I call you Kallie?"

"If that pleases you, my lady."

She shut the door again.

This meant nothing, of course. She could call Kallie 'her knight' and give her nicknames, she was still getting rid of her.

Tomorrow.

If she got around to it.

Fuck.

[raineandsky]

#12

The villain thinks the hero is positively stupid.

That’s a given, of course. Villains think heroes are stupid and heroes think villains are stupid, that’s just the way it is. This hero though, in particular, is as blind as he is dumb. The villain has been tailing him for seven blocks, not even inconspicuously, but he’s yet to notice.

He’s clearly preoccupied, too interested in whatever boring do–gooder he’s talking to on his phone to actually take in his surroundings. He turns off the street to wander down a small side road, and the villain grins knowingly at his mistake. The end of this is a carpark, surrounded by tall buildings. If he can catch him before he inevitably gets in one of the cars, he’ll have his hero.

The villain picks up the pace as they spot the glint of keys being pulled out of the hero’s pocket, and they manage to grab him just as he unlocks the car in front of him. The touch startles him, and he only manages to turn to catch a glimpse of the villain before his back is slammed into the car with a cold crunch. The villain only grins victoriously as he rests his blade against his throat.

“Do you know how blind you are?” he asks with a laugh, and the hero grimaces at the sound. “I’ve been following you for fifteen minutes and you never even noticed!”

“[Villain]...” The hero’s voice is small, hushed in anxiety, and the villain feels like he’s struck gold. “Please, not now.”

“Oh, we’re resorting to begging already are we?” His grin only widens maliciously. “You like to act so high and mighty when the cameras are on you, but really you’re afraid of me.”

“This is really bad timing,” the hero continues quietly, as if the villain cares.

“Oh, is this a bad day to die for you? Got dinner plans?” He gives the hero a harsh shove as he pushes down harder with his knife, the car rocking slightly with the force. He goes to make another jab, but he doesn’t get to before the sound of crying cuts him off.

He glances at the hero, who looks just as horrified as the villain does confused at the noise. It’s muffled, coming from inside the car they’re against. All that comes out is a baffled “what?”

“[Villain], please–” The hero’s words are actually begging now, and the villain would be revelling in that if he wasn’t so busy trying to get a glimpse into the backseat. “Please, don’t–”

He swings the door open, his suspicions confirmed. A child is in a booster seat in the back of the car, wailing like the world’s ending, a tiny plush elephant getting positively crushed in its grasp. He can only stare, the moment surreal, until the hero pushes past him to grab the child out of the car, hoisting it up against his hip.

“Is that thing yours?” he asks incredulously, as if it wasn’t just in the hero’s car. He nods stiffly like he doesn’t want to admit it.

“She’s– The babysitter cancelled last minute.” His tone is soft as he gently bounces the child to try and calm her down. “I couldn’t leave her at home alone.”

“So you left her in your car alone.” The villain frowns, casting his gaze down to the ornate watch hugging his wrist. “You’re still on duty for, like, five hours. You just intended to leave her here all day?”

“I don’t know!” The child sniffles like she’s about to cry again, and the hero lowers his voice again. “I don’t know. I don’t have many other options right now.”

“You’re even dumber than I thought and you have a child relying on you. Good god.” The villain lets out an exasperated sigh. “Just give her to me.”

“Excuse you?”

He shrugs, holding his hands out to the kid. “You can’t leave her in your car, moron. Stop by my lair at nine o’clock tonight to come get her.”

The hero shies away from his outstretched arms slightly. “I may be dumb but I’m not dumb enough to leave her with you.”

“And if you deny me I’ll smash your windows in to get her, and then I’ll have her anyway. I thought you didn’t have many other options right now.”

He glances at the kid sitting against his side, falling asleep in the post breakdown tiredness. “If you hurt her I won’t just get you turned into the police next time.”

“I would expect no less.” He grimaces slightly as the hero carefully pushes her into his arms, suddenly very aware he doesn’t know how to handle a child. “Stop by at nine, okay? If I have to keep her a minute longer she’ll be feeding my alligators.”

The hero nods quickly. “Yeah, of course.” He starts back down the car park before pausing, turning back to the villain slowly. “Thank you, as well.”

He shrugs nonchalantly, adjusting the kid against his side. “Whatever. Don’t be late.”

With that the hero sets off again, leaving the villain with a failed mission, a non-dead hero, and a child he never wanted.

[imholtorf]

TFP: Unexpecting Babysitter

Arcee gets kidnapped by Knock Out and Breakdown to babysit their son, Wildbreak.

______________________________________

Arcee was in her vehicle mode as she is on a afternoon patrol. She hears the sound of an engine approaching, she turns her mirror and sees a red Aston Martin.

She immediately recognizes that car as it was Knock Out, the Decepticon medic “Great” Arcee muttered as she turns around and droves off the road as Knock Out follows her. They both transform into their robot modes as Arcee sheaves out her blades and attacks Knock Out.

The Decepticon medic dodged from every strike Arcee made “What’s Megatron’s next plan? What is he up to? Where is the Nemesis?” she asked while interrogating him “If you want info from me? You’ll have to catch me first” Knock Out said as he runs off then transforms into his vehicle mode as Arcee transforms into hers and chases him.

The Autobot femme kept chasing the Decepticon mech as he lead her to a canyon as Knock Out contacts his conjunx endura, Breakdown “Breakdown, I have the Autobot, Arcee on my tailpipe. When, I give you the word, you know what to do” he said “She’ll have a “knock out” “ Breakdown joked as they chuckled as Knock Out hangs up.

He turns to the next direction which is a dead end “Breakdown, now!” Knock Out said as Breakdown appeared from on top of the canyon as he jumps down and is in front of Arcee “Scrap” she muttered as Breakdown grabs her and throws her towards a wall.

Arcee transforms into her robot mode and hits the wall and loses consciousness as the two Decepticons approached the unconscious fembot. “Now to the next part of the plan” Knock Out said.

______________________________________

Arcee groans as she regains conscious as she looks at her surroundings. She notices that she is being carried by someone. Arcee looks down and stasis cuffs are on her then turns to the individual and saw that it was Breakdown carrying her on his shoulder “Hey, let me go!” she demanded “Look who’s up, Knock Out” Breakdown said as Knock Out goes behind Breakdown “Good to have you up, Two-Wheeler” Knock Out said.

“Let me go or you will suffer the consequences!” Arcee said as Breakdown is not responding “This is not dignify! Let me go!” Arcee yelled “Aaah!”

Later, Arcee does nothing to escape from Breakdown’s grip as Knock Out asks her some questions “Well, I don’t know if you’re interested to romance, but let’s say there’s this guy you met: handsome, suave, and a gentle-bot. But, you feel insecure that he might not love you for who you are” Knock Out explained.

“If he doesn’t love you for who you are then he’s not the one for you” Arcee answered as they arrived at a cave “Well, here we are, Arcee” Breakdown said as they entered the cave as he puts down Arcee. “We have a job for you, Arcee” Knock Out said “Whatever, it is I will not do it” Arcee said. “We want you to sparkling-sit our son, Wildbreak” Knock Out said.

“I will not-- wait, what?” Arcee asked as she became confused of Knock Out said as Breakdown brings out a toddler mechling, who is Wildbreak. He’s dark blue, has Breakdown’s orange face and yellow optics, and he vehicle mode is a sports car.

“Take care of Wildbreak” Breakdown said “Why me? You can just have Starscream, Soundwave, or Vehicon troopers to take care of him?” Arcee asked. “Starscream and Soundwave are too busy on their duties, the Vehicon troopers are unavailable, and Megatron is not really an option” Knock Out explained. “True” Arcee said as she agreed that last part.

Knock Out uncuffs Arcee “Look after Wildbreak as we’ll be gone for the rest of the day” he explained as he and Breakdown exit the cave “When will you be back?” Arcee asked “Tomorrow” Knock Out answered “Be good, Wildbreak” Breakdown said as Wildbreak nods “Oh, to be sure you don’t escape” Knock Out said as Breakdown pushes a boulder and blocks the entrance.

Arcee sighs as she is now trapped and has to take care of the Decepticons’ son. She looks at the little mechling “What do you wanna play?” she asked as Wildbreak points to a game of checkers “Checkers? Well, let’s play” she said.

Arcee and Wildbreak begin to play Checkers, a two hours later Arcee began to get along with Wildbreak, as they played other games and watched a movie. Arcee tucks Wildbreak in as she goes to sleep.

______________________________________

The next morning...

Arcee was still sleeping until the sound of the boulder is moving and morning light shined on her face as she wakes up. She sees Knock Out and Breakdown as they are back from their duty “Good Morning” Arcee said as she stands up “How is Wildbreak?” Knock Out asked “He’s good, I really began to like him” Arcee said “Well, since you now did a good job of taking care of him. You are free to go” Breakdown said as Arcee exits the cave before she leaves, she turns to the Decepticon parents “Maybe, I can sparkling-sit your son, again? If that’s okay?” Arcee asked “We’ll see” Knock Out said as Arcee transformed into her vehicle and drove off.

______________________________________

Arcee arrived back at the Autobot base and transformed into her robot mode “Ah, good to be home” Arcee sighed “Arcee!” Ratchet cried as the Autobot medic approached her “Where have you been? You have been gone for a day?” Ratchet stated “Well, let’s just say I have been hired unexpectedly” Arcee answered.

[cyberghost-scout]

Daycare Au

~Silly little thing for @ask-the-guardian-core

Fedelis, his little sparklings, plus his friends took a pit stop on Earth from their little vacation. 

Somehow, Buster and Bolt cause tomfoolery in a populated city while Fedelis takes a nap-- the medic finds out. 

He is not happy. 

But before he could stop the two he needed someone to watch the sparklings, he went to the only em field signature: the core's station, and quickly got the attention by standing in front. 

He's courteous enough not to bust a hole despite the urgency.

With two sparklings in his servo, he bluntly told A.I./core to watch them; those two idiots in the city are his problem to settle.

Thus, government-funded robots built to protect the peace of the city and world- were demoted to Phantasma and Ghostwire's babysitters.

Ghostwire would be the first to cry and try to reach for her papa, and Phantasma would follow after her sister started.

Some of the Cores we're not happy with babysitting duty. A few follow Fedelis in secrecy.

But one is super pleased with the situation: Scout.

The second and third bots would warm up to the sparking which would maybe be Holyberry and the Disk Drive. Heck, maybe even dragon fruit after things calm down enough.

~ As for @bladedalchemistreplica, After some wormhole hijinks, would lead the (fighter/blades/paladins/hobo with a pet cat?) to Cybertron. 

They take shelter in a building, not knowing it's a daycare that Fedelis owns and works. Finding themselves surrounded by cute and squishy sparklings, especially a little pair of feline-like twins. 

Now they must find out where they are, how to get back home- without the Galra empire knowing of this place, and lastly, having to deal with a tired single father and his sparkling daughters.

~ The twins do look adorable. 

They like baby kittens but robot humans. So, by that logic, they hate the vacuum. Ghostwire would hiss before cowering into her little plushy tent. And Phantasma would scream and crawl/run.

~ You bet your butts that young DILF Fedelis runs a daycare. 

His reasoning? 

"Since I'm watching my sparklings and then my friends after gladiator fights were outlawed- I might as well get paid for it."

~ Yes, sparkling Ghost is tiny and has no regret in taking her sister's juice box. But Phanty will get her revenge by stealing Ghostwire's little snack cakes. 

Yes- thieving siblings but for each other's snacks.

~ Perhaps a cameo of Flow and her mommies? Yes.

~ Now how Fedelis became a fresh Dilf after tending a medical emergency trying to get home but hearing crying in the dumpster. He came over to look to find two sparkling starving. Even if he was tired, he took them back to the med bay; the femmelings cry whenever Fedelis leaves. They bounded with him. They are his now.

~ @braveggg-hq It's the first contact with robot aliens that don't want to take over the planet, and it is just the humans finding the sparklings playing on their little playpens while Fedelis is just getting their snacks ready. The childish bots or kiddos didn't overthink about the twins being more than cutie squishy toys and thus accidentally brought them to the station, not knowing that a pissed sire was looking for his daughters and their kidnappers.

[inavagrant-a]

@vixlenxe / starter call.

If he had known his utility was going to be reduced to a mere babysitter he would have taken a boring expedition back into the abyss over this. Though the devil lacks in horns, he makes up for it with the blackness of his rotting heart. The chill of the winter that is said is enough to cause frostbite in mere minutes of being exposed to its cold embrace does no such thing to him. Cold or warm, is all the same to Scaramouche. It is but mere duty that keeps his eyes upon the maiden who he's yet to comprehend why The Tsaritsa herself seems to glorify so much. Because interest? He's none, though a slight pinch of curiosity that he can not be bothered with satisfying so that hardly bothers him.

"Is this your idea for a good time?" The sharp blade of a guillotine descends without abandon upon her head. He's judging her to distract himself of his miserable state.

[opalesense]

Can I request Diluc going off on a long journey with the traveler and his s/o gives him a fat smooch goodbye in front of everyone and he’s like 👁👄👁 all embarrassed

one goodbye kiss

diluc & gn!reader

1k words • ~6 min. read

summary: you accidentally fluster diluc in the middle of the tavern by giving him a goodbye kiss before he sets off on his travels.

warnings: none!

notes: HAHAHA THIS IDEA IS SO CUTE??! also i’m really sorry i took so long to respond ghdhhsg my mind has been in nsfw land lately... but thank you for requesting, take a kiss from me before you get a kiss from diluc <3

“WE’LL BE BACK IN A FEW WEEKS,” Diluc reiterated to Charles, who was only informed of the winery owner’s last minute leave just mere moments ago. Charles, quite literally in the middle of a shift tonight, wiped down the counter with a sigh. He gave Charles a pat on the back and look of reassurance. “If you ever need anything, just let Elzer know. I’m sure he can find people to cover my shifts while I’m gone.”

 “Come now, Diluc,” Kaeya set his mug down after taking a long swig, “Why don’t you entrust your dear old brother to cover your shifts? You know I’m here almost every night anyway. And you shouldn’t doubt my mixing skills, either.”

 Diluc could only scoff and shake his head at Kaeya. Readjusting his leather sack that carried most of his belongings necessary for travel, he made his way across the other side of the counter in swift steps. He snatched Kaeya’s bottle of wine away from him, earning a pout from the blue haired brother. “That’s your sixth bottle of the day. You’re here almost every night to drink, not work. Nice try, though.”

 “Hey, I was drinking that too, you know,” Rosaria pitched in as well, furrowing her eyebrows as Diluc handed the bottle to Charles, who put it back on the shelf behind the bar.

 “How come the so called ‘protectors’ of Mondstadt get drunk almost every night instead of patrolling the city for danger? Tell me, who’s out there watching the streets right now? Surely it’s a Knight’s duty, at the very least, to do their job sober,” Diluc crossed his arms as he threw out casual criticism at the two drunken night owls.

 Rosaria fidgeted with the blade in her hand and scowled, “I’m not even a Knight, dumbass!”

 “Hey, we have to get going soon and hopefully we’ll be at Liyue by sunrise,” the traveller interrupted the banter and lightened the mood a bit. “Diluc, don’t you want to give a nice goodbye? We’ll be gone for a couple of weeks, after all.”

 Diluc sighed and softened his gaze. The traveller was right. He had learned over the years that goodbyes were always the hardest, and he never wanted the his potential last goodbyes to end in bitterness. It would break his heart to think that someone’s last memories of him could be unpleasant, and he couldn’t stand anymore heartbreak.

 “Fine,” he uncrossed his arms and reached a hand out to Kaeya’s shoulder, giving him a firm pat. “Don’t hurt yourself.”

 “I’ll try,” Kaeya let go of his pout and replaced it with a slight grin, aware of Diluc’s genuine concern laying underneath his lack of words to show for it. Nonetheless, he appreciated his attempts at reconciliation, no matter how small it was.

 “And you,” he turned to face Rosaria, who was playing with the blade effortlessly, “don’t let this idiot go overboard.”

 She simply responded by rolling her eyes. “I’m not his babysitter, but I’ll do you a favour just this once.”

 Diluc then turned to face you. His stern scowl was immediately replaced with a soft grin, his eyes lighting up once he had a good look of your face. You stood up and took a step closer to him, falling into his arms in a desperate, intimate embrace. He sighed as he wrapped his warm hands around you, caressing your back and allowing this moment to plant a seed in his memory that he could carry with him during his travels. He closed his eyes for a moment, tuning out the ambient sounds of the tavern, forgetting about his responsibilities and simply enjoying your presence.

 Alas, all good things come to an end and he knew he couldn’t keep the traveller waiting. His eyes fluttered open as he slowly loosened his grip on you, allowing you to lean back a little and meet his eyes with yours. You cupped his cheeks with your hands, smoothing over his freckled skin with your thumbs and staring longingly into his deep red eyes.

 “I’m going to miss you so much,” you whispered. He studied your face for a few seconds, distracted by the way you glimmered in the dim light of the tavern.

 “I’ll miss you too, my dear–“

 Suddenly you pressed your lips against his, taking his breath away in a kiss that had him take a step back in the sheer impulsivity of it. His eyes widened as he kissed you back, panic settling in as he realized you two were not alone at home like usual. In fact, you were kissing him in front of his travel companion, brother, friend, coworker, and all the patrons currently in the tavern. He grabbed your waist instinctively, wanting to pry you off of him, but knowing that his return home was never guaranteed, he allowed you to continue kissing him and held your waist lovingly instead.

 But soon enough, you pulled your face away and giggled at the sight – his face was priceless! The poor man, usually perceived as grumpy and stern according to most citizens of Mondstadt, stood there helplessly with a crimson blush rivalling his own hair color. With eyes widened, lips quivering, and forehead slightly dampened with nervous sweat, you cooed at his innocent expression, and apologized profusely for the sudden action with sweet whispers as you pulled him in for another hug again.

 “I just... couldn’t hold back, you know?” you admitted, “Sorry, dear...”

 “It’s... it’s okay, my love,” he stared at the ground, avoiding eye contact with Kaeya and Rosaria, who were already trying to hold back their laughs. But they just couldn’t do it, no matter how hard they tried to maintain normalcy, the two troublemakers giggled profusely.

 “You two better shut it before I make you shut it,” Diluc held out his hand, still holding you closely, and summoned a bright flame to spook them. And sure enough, that was enough to keep their lips sealed for the rest of the night. Though, that didn’t stop them from exchanging teasing glances with each other, and that surely didn’t stop the rest of the people in the room to talk amongst the people of Mondstadt the next morning about how cute of a lad Diluc was at the tavern, all because of one goodbye kiss.

[ezzydean]

Trick or treattttttttt fluffy sass bucket, snarly puppy, and their bald babysitter.

come trick-or-treat in my inbox requesting ficcies and I’ll either treat you to some fluff or humor or trick you with a horribly twisted sad AU  (I’ll use a random generator to pick trick or treat) send me “trick or treat” and a character(s) or ship in my inbox and I’ll write you a short little thing (I’ll be doing these all of October so send away!) so ro and I are being us and taking a list of rather fluffy sounding prompts and doing our best to twist them into our tricks. this one is “Going to a harvest fair.“ (also I am me so I picked two sets that could go with that ship. enjoy)

trick

“Seriously?” Kyoutani growls.  Shigeru eyes him warily.  It wouldn’t be the first time Kyoutani’s attitude has gotten them kicked out of a place like this.

“Relax, would you?” Watari settles onto the ground next to Kyoutani.  “Remember last time?”

Clearly that was the wrong thing to say because Kyoutani growls again, a low rumble that makes the people sitting next to them scoot a little further away.  Which is fine with Shigeru actually.  The three of them did not travel for nearly a month just to be crowded by assholes who don’t understand the concept of personal space.

“If you want this time to turn out like last time keep talking,” Kyoutani snarls.

“Please,” Watari chuckles.  “You didn’t scare me when I first met you.  You sure as hell don’t scare me now.”

“Can we not?” Shigeru asks as he drops himself down on Kyoutani’s other side.

The other two roll their eyes but they quiet down as the fire in the center of the field flares to life and the ceremony begins.

—

Kenma watches the night unfold.  It’s not quite the level of chaotic revelry they usually get and even Kai looks more than a little bored.  Which is saying something since it doesn’t take much to entertain him when it comes to the fairs and feasts in their honor.

“Where’s the screams of terror?  The unholy shrieks of fear ripping through the night?  The crunching and snapping and splatting of people tearing each other apart in our names?”  Tora paces the length of their room, every bit the caged animal he is.  “Why are they all so… boring?”

Kenma sighs.  Kai frowns at him.

“We said we wouldn’t,” Kai warns.

“Not like we promised we wouldn’t,” Kenma replies.  “If they took us at our word without extracting a promise that’s not our fault.”

Tora’s eyes light up.  “So.  Does that mean…”

Kenma blinks slowly and their room fills with a golden glow.  Tora cheers and Kai shakes his head but he doesn’t do anything to try and stop him.  Which he knows means Kai was simply saying the words, playing the part of dutiful babysitter. Plausible deniability that he’ll never actually use because he’s just as eager as the rest of them to get things moving.

—

Kyoutani’s breaths are heavy and his eyes shine with a manic glee as he wipes at his face with dirty hands, turning the red already there into a muddy mask.  Watari jogs over to them with a grin on his face as he eyes the carnage around them.  Shigeru watches with a soul deep apathy, fingers tapping out a discordant rhythm against the blade in his hand as the fires around him flicker and flare.

The ground shudders as Watari reaches them.

“Finally,” Kyoutani grumbles.

“So impatient,” Kenma chides.

“My Lords,” the three of them say as darkness licks at their senses.

“My Loves,” Kai murmurs, Tora echoing the words a moment later.

“Mine,” Kenma says with a wicked smile.  “All mine.”

[rattyoakenbitch]

❝𝐢𝐟 𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝❞ ─ 𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐢 𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧

i don't want your sympathy, i guess ive had it rough but you don't really care

❥ content ; gn reader, eventual fluff, angst, pining, happy ending

❥ warnings ; injury, swearing, mentions of death

❥ synopsis ; when you get badly injured during a mission, only then does levi realize the depths of his feelings for you. now the question is, is it too late?

❥ a/n ; i don't have a taglist yet so feel free to ask to get added!

You glided through the trees alongside your team, adrenaline running through your veins.

Kicking yourself off a tree, you landed your body with ease onto a lone Titan spotted in the forest below you. With a swift swing of the blade, the Titan was on the ground.

Finished, you zipped yourself back into the air, joining your team member's formation as you all flew together.

"Y/N!" Captain Levi shouted, resent dripping off of his words. Here we go again. "Do not deviate from original course! We are here to scout, not to thrill seek."

The team came to a slow. They stood on the branches, overlooking the land beneath them.

"I was not thrill seeking, sir, I was doing my job," you defended, turning to Captain Levi. Though he was shorter than you were, his cold stare and unwavering demeanor intimidated you.

"Your job is to follow my orders, brat, not go off wandering like an idiot!"

"I didn't wander, I was quick to regroup! You're just finding a reason to take your anger out on me," you retorted. "Then again, I wouldn't be surprised. Considering your height, it's no wonder you can barely contain your anger in such a small body."

As much as he wanted to push you off the tree, Levi kept his poise.

By now the team could hear you and Levi's bickering, but considering they were used to it, they decided to butt out and focus on planning the route.

"Stable duty when we get back."

And then he walked away, leaving you fuming.

As you continued with the scouting mission, you encountered too many Titans that you couldn't just brush them off. Angry and left with no choice, Levi shouted orders to forget the original plan and fight back.

Out of the corner of your eye, you spotted two Titans approaching Jean and Armin with intent. You narrowed your eyes. This was your chance. You bolted off the tree, flying fast towards the two Titans. You got your gear out, ready to slice their napes, when one of the Titans looked your way, a sick smile on its face.

"Y/N!" Armin called out in a panic as the Titan extended its arm, swiping at you like a fly. Before its hand could collide with you, you were pushed out of the way by none other than Levi.

He wrapped his arms around you securely, one underneath your bottom and his other around your back. You heard him whisper a profanity, his hot breath fanning your neck as he spoke. Though it wasn't the time or the place, you couldn't help but let your mind wander.

You were brought back to reality when Levi glided deeper into the forest, setting you down onto the ground harsher than necessary.

Totally caught off guard, your back was shoved against a tree. Levi was quick to block your exits, predicting you would try to resist.

His arms caged you between him and the tree, leaving little to no distance between your bodies. You could feel your face get hot, either out of embarrassment or his body heat mixing with yours.

"What the hell is wrong with you, brat?!" Yelled Levi, eyes wild with rage. However, something felt different about this compared to when he scolded you for separating from the group. But you couldn't quite put your finger on it.

"Me?" You scoffed. "You're the crazy psycho who stole me away and cornered me in this forest!" You pushed at his chest, successfully shoving him off of you. "I had everything under control."

"You were almost killed! I can't have reckless people on my team. I'm a captain, not a babysitter, so get your shit together or get the hell off my team."

You stood against the tree quietly, Levi's venomous words stunning you into silence. Levi continued to stare deep into your eyes, his expression never changing. However, as the seconds passed, you saw a sliver of regret in his eyes, lasting only for a mere second.

You took a deep breath, trying to choose your words carefully. "I- Just.. Why do you hate me so much?"

Levi raised a brow while you continued to speak.

"I know I'm not the best fighter. Not compared to Misaka or Eren. But what did I do to deserve so much hatred from you? Even when I'm not doing anything wrong, you look at me like I'm the most disgusting person you've seen."

Despite feeling a sting of guilt at your words, Levi put on a dismissive act. "Tch, you're being dramatic. I'm not about to discuss this with you."

Why the fuck did he say that?

"Maybe if you listened to me for two damn seconds you wouldn't get such an earful."

Why is he being such an asshole? Gods, just tell them already. Stop this bullshit.

No longer finding it in you to care, you began to raise your voice, angry tears spilling down your face. "I try my best to make you like me. I try to show you that I'm capable and strong, but you still treat me as if I'm inferior. Like my skills are nothing. Like I'm nothing."

Emotionless, Levi replied, "Because you are. Look at you. You're a crybaby. You should've stayed back." Lies. All lies.

"Ugh- well maybe you should've just let me get killed since you despise me so much!"

With that, you grab your gear and zip away as far from Levi as possible, tears blowing out of your face and into the wind.

"Hey, where are you going?!"

You ignored him as you continued to speed through the trees, searching for your team. Your friends. Anybody.

"Y/N! Look out!"

You heard Eren shout, making you spin around frantically to search for the danger.

There it was.

An Abnormal ran your way, crawling like a dog on its hands and feet.

It had been chasing the team for a while now, evident in its animalistic, hungry look.

Steadily hanging off a branch, you watch the Titan from afar, then look back at the team.

"I'll distract it! You guys go!"

They looked at you as if you had grown two extra heads.

"You'll die!" Mikasa argued. "We can take it!"

"Just go!"

The Titan started to get closer. The team looked behind you, then back at you. Though they looked ready and determined to take it down, you knew they felt as terrified as you were. Fighting Titans was just something you don't think you'll ever get used to.

"Please be careful. We're gonna find Captain Levi!"

You nodded, then turned around, watching as the Titan ran towards you, totally disregarding the rest of the team.

"You want me? Come get me."

When you decided it was close enough, you darted into the forest and soared through the trees, only narrowly missing them. The Abnormal followed you, but hit itself on the trees and destroyed many in the process.

While the Abnormal continued to run through the forest, leaves and trees blocking its direct vision of you, you took a chance and turned back, flying past the Abnormal.

You did a quick u-turn and hopped onto its back.

You got it now.

As it chased after nothing, completely unaware, you slashed the nape of its neck.

With you still on its back, the Titan went limp mid-jump, falling onto the ground hard enough to create an earthquake. Unprepared for the collision, you went flying off its body.

Instead of bracing yourself for the fall, you frantically reached for your gear in an attempt to glide back up to the trees.

Before you got the chance, your body met with the ground, a loud thud echoing from the impact.

In the distance, the rest of the team continued to fight until they got to the very last Titan. Levi, though he was the last to regroup, helped effectively take down the Titans.

It wasn't evident in his stoic expression, but he searched among his surroundings and the faces of his team for you, afraid the worst had happened. Dammit, why did he have to be such an asshole? What Levi said to you, he meant none of it. But he feared he wouldn't get the chance to tell you that. Idiot.

"Is everybody here?!" Levi shouted as his team gathered around him.

"Yeah, we're alive-"

"Wait, where's Y/N?"

The team began to search among themselves, now becoming anxious as well.

"Well, where are they? Did you not see them at all?" Levi asked in a calm tone, despite his heart beat pounding in his ears. No. He wasn't going to slip up. Not here, not now. He needed to remain strong.

Mikasa spoke up. "We last saw them when we were being chased by an Abnormal! They offered to distract it and take care of it themselves."

Levi shouted, a crack in his voice, "And you let them?!"

"Y/N is strong! One of the best fighters we have here," Eld said. "They've probably already taken it down by now."

"Then where are they?!" Levi growled, becoming more frustrated by the second.

"Hey, look!" Armin yelled, shaking his finger towards the steam in the distance. "Eld was right! Y/N did kill it after all!"

Wasting no more time, Levi commanded the team to follow him. Soon again, they were up in the trees, running your direction. They stopped as soon as they came across a clearing in the forest where the Abnormal laid lifelessly.

"Everyone! Find Y/N!"

The team split, searching the area for any sign of you.

Levi dreaded the thought of finding you like they found the Titan. No. You killed it. You had to be alive.

Levi repeated that in his head. You had to be alive.

Because if you weren't, he wouldn't know what he would do.

Your eyes shot open at the sound of panicked screams echoing around you. You pushed yourself off of the ground in a rush, only to stumble back with an agonizing scream, pain shooting up the lower half of your body.

"Fucking hell! Oh shit," you fell back on the grass defeatedly, hot tears welling in your eyes at the intense pain and aches across your whole body. "Dammit!"

You didn't know which bones were broken, where you were, if you were bleeding out. So you just laid there alone, helpless and numb. Waiting.

Just when the team was beginning to lose hope, a blood curdling scream echoed throughout the forest, easily catching the team's attention. They headed towards the source of the sound, but Levi was the first on it, already sprinting through the forest to find you.

When he did, he felt his heart drop down to his stomach. You laid in a small clearing behind some old trees and bushes, a puddle of blood beneath your body. Your uniform was torn and your 3DMG was rendered useless at this point. If not for the scream, or the fast rise and fall of your chest, he would've mistaken you for being dead.

Levi rushed to your side and got onto his knees, lifting up your body into his arms.

"Y/N? Can you hear me? Y/N?"

You coughed, wheezing and struggling to make a coherent sound. Blood dripped down the corner of your mouth as you spoke, "You were right, Captain. I never stood a chance, did I?Shoulda just stayed." You laughed pitifully.

Now Levi was angry, but not at you. "Shut up! Don't say stupid shit like that! You're going to be okay."

The team found you, stopping short at the sight of Levi holding you carefully, like a porcelain doll, ready to break.

He didn't care anymore. He didn't bother to put up a front. Not when you were like this, half dead in his arms. He pressed his forehead to yours, whispering in your ear so only you could hear.

"I can't lose you too.."

Everyone else only continued to watch the intimate scene unfold before them.

When you fell unconcious, Levi squeezed his eyes shut, trying his best to keep his composure. Why was he acting like this? Usually he would be quick to solve problems without letting his feelings get in the way. Why was he so helpless now?

He turned around, scowling at the group who just stood by idly.

"Get over here and help them, you fools!"

You hated it. You hated having to be looked after or saved like a princess in a children's storybook. You didn't want to run away anymore, or simply stand in waiting, hoping for someone to rescue you. You were done being hunted. So you joined the Scouts after years of hard work and training. If you had only thought more carefully or put your parent's advice in consideration, you wouldn't be in your current situation, regretting ever joining Levi's team. You wouldn't have ended up in the infirmary.

You passed out in Levi's arms after suffering from injuries during your fight with the Abnormal Titan, according to your friends. They came by to visit you when the medic alerted them that you had woken up from your coma.

"How long was I out for?" You winced as you massaged your still pounding head. "When did I even get here?"

"You've been unconcious for two days. We retreated to the city as Captain Levi instructed and you've been under their care since," Eren answered. He noticed your demeanor as you looked around the room and picked at your skin, a nervous habit you recently formed. "Everybody's alive, so don't you worry."

"Where are they?"

"Well, they did have to receive medical attention since they got hurt, but they're okay! They miss you, ya know?" Armin said excitedly. "We'll make sure to fill you in on everything when you're out of here."

You pursed your lips. "Speaking of which, when will I be discharged?"

"You can't exactly walk right now, but.. you should be up and ready to go within a week! Then we can go on another mission and-"

"Eren. Armin. Mikasa." Your attention was torn away from Eren, your eyes darting towards the source of the voice.

"Captain Levi!" They all exclaimed in unison.

"I would like to speak with Y/N in private." He glanced at trio, his eyes narrowing. "Out."

The three walked out, heads bowed like sad little puppies. You waved at them as they went before turning to Levi who now stood by your bed.

"What do you want?" You asked bitterly, nose scrunching up in a sneer.

"Commander Erwin informed me of your decision," he spoke softly, differing from his usual cold tone.

You huffed. "Yeah, took your advice and resigned. You won't have to worry about babysitting me anymore."

A pang of guilt shot through Levi's heart, causing him to flinch. He hoped you didn't catch that.

He remembered his own regretful words as it replayed in his head. Just like your cries and pained expression, which he was unable to simply brush off, he couldn't forget how he mistreated you. And he would never forgive himself, either. The sight of your injured body laying there, all alone. He couldn't shake the scene off his mind, no matter how hard he tried. Even in his dreams.

Evident in his eyebags that seemed to have darkened in shade, he wasn't able to get much sleep the past couple days because of it.

"I take it you hate me, then," Levi suggested, prompting you to laugh mockingly.

"Oh, no, I could never," you said, sarcasm dripping off your voice as you fake fawned over Levi. "Levi Ackerman, Humanity's Strongest.. I just adore you."

Levi hid his offended expression and ignored your antics as he continued. "I was afraid I couldn't get the chance to apologize to you. When I found you there, I.." He squeezed his eyes shut and furrowed his brows together, forcing his tears not to fall. Why now?

"Yeah, well, you fucked up. About time you feel a little heartache," you mumbled, looking around the room, anywhere but Levi.

"A little?! Look, I'm trying to apologize here!" He shouted. "Do you have no idea how fucking terrified I've been for you, you brat?!"

"No, Captain Levi, so why don't you enlighten me on how much you care?!" You huffed, crossing your arms. "Because if you did, then maybe I wouldn't be bed ridden!"

Levi's face softened at the sight of a single tear escaping your eye. He took a seat on the bed beside you and reached out to brush away your tear.

With your quick reflexes, you caught his hand and pushed it back towards him.

"Don't you dare touch me. You've done enough damage, Levi. Just go and stop wasting my time."

Just like you, he was stubborn. He stood his ground.

"I-I'm sorry."

You let out an exasperated sigh. "You must think I'm stupid. No way I'm buying that bullshit."

"You need to stop pushing me away, Y/N!"

"What is that, an order?" You taunted. "You don't get to be sorry, Levi. It's too late for that. You waited for me to almost die just to tell me that? Is that what it takes? What if I hadn't survived? What then?"

"You don't think I haven't thought about that?! That's why I'm here!"

"Yeah, and who's fault is that?"

"You should've listened to me! I was trying to protect you!"

"Well thanks a lot. Now both my kneecaps are broken and I won't be able to walk for weeks!" You shake your head. "You think just because we shared a moment while I was dying that I'm okay now? Trust me, if I had the strength, I would have slapped you then and there."

"Then why don't you now?"

"At this point, you're not even worth getting angry over. So stop giving me that pitiful look. I really prefer you shouting at me instead. At least I'm used to it." You mumble the last part, but Levi catches it easily.

"That's it then, you leave me no choice." You look at Levi curiously. "You infuriate me, brat, you really do. You're so careless and oblivious all the time, you forget to look after yourself. And I'm not ready to watch you throw away your life so irrationally from the sidelines."

"So what are you trying to tell me, Levi?"

"Tch, you're just gonna make me say it, aren't you?" He takes a deep breath. "I'm not good at this, and I hate to admit it, to you of all people. It makes me mad to see you risk your life because I care about you.. and I can't lose you. I've dealt with too much death. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you alive, even if it means dying.." Levi trails off, then scoffs and crosses his arms like a petty little child. "I said it, all right? I like you-- A lot, you stupid brat!"

You searched Levi's eyes for any trace of dishonesty. You hoped he was lying, like he had some sort of script prepared before he came to see you. But you found no lies in his eyes.

You felt your heart break. All this time when you thought Levi just really hated you, he was looking out for you.

"I.. Why didn't you just tell me?" Your voice fell apart as you spoke. "I tried so hard to make you like me back.. And it hurt because I thought you just hated my guts. I had no idea."

"I know, I was being stupid too- It shouldn't have come to this," Levi admitted. "I.. I'll let you rest now."

Levi stood up to leave, but you were quick to pull him back onto the bed with you. Without letting him react, you grabbed his face and interlocked your lips with his. All the tension in his body disappeared and he melted into the kiss, throwing his arms around you tightly like he'd lose you if he ever let go. It wasn't a soft, romantic, movie perfect kiss. It was desperate, tongue and teeth, hands wandering, disheveling the other's hair. You released all of your built up anger and resent, letting it fuel you while you aggresively fought your tongue with his, a faint taste a hint of alcohol now on your own mouth. Occasionally you'd both break the kiss for short intakes of breath and small whispers like 'don't scare me like that again' and 'I've needed this for a while now'. You couldn't help but moan, earning a grin from Levi as he continued to hungrily devour your lips. Just as things escalated, you remembered you were still in the infirmary, and anyone could walk in any minute now. You slowly pulled away, your chest heaving as you panted for breath.

Levi couldn't help but twist his lips up into a little smirk. That was new.

"Well at least you're not a bad first kisser," he spoke nonchalantly, still gasping for air. You playfully punched him in the chest.

"Quite the romantic, aren't you?" You rolled your eyes but couldn't stop yourself from smiling like an idiot. "You're not bad either, old man."

Blush spread across his cheeks.

He took your hand in his, bringing it to his swollen and raw lips and placed a small kiss on your knuckles.

"Promise me you won't leave me again?"

"Promise," you sighed blissfully. "And I guess I'll have to tell Commander Erwin about my change of plans."

"Actually," a deep voice spoke. At the door, there stood none other than Commander Erwin. "I think I already know."

[luckhound]

— heavy burdens.

pairing.  kaeya/gender neutral reader

genre.  angst

description.  on an important anniversary, kaeya gets drunk off his ass, bonds with a fellow captain, and realizes some burdens can’t ever be set back down.

warnings.  spoilers for kaeya and diluc’s character stories. mentions of alcohol and a character (kaeya) being under the influence.

note.  four months later and i��ve finally finished this fic after writing it on and off for that whole time mskfjdks a big thank you to sierra, miya, and grace for reading over the previous drafts of this and giving me their honest thoughts, love you ladies <3

He hadn’t expected to get shitfaced when he had first stepped foot in the tavern. Honest.

His plan for the evening was as follows: Go to Angel’s Share, chat with patrons, share some laughs, learn some secrets, and see where the night goes. Only the information he gleaned would tell how it ended; with him stumbling back to his quarters for a night’s rest, or ruminating on how to dismantle schemes that enemies of Mondstadt were concocting in the shadows.

So, the usual. Nothing too noteworthy.

Then he happened to overhear a conversation on the way there.

The two civilians spoke in low, somber tones about how it has been exactly one year since Master Crepus’s death and his son Diluc’s subsequent departure from Mondstadt. How terrible, they mused as they shook their heads, that the new winery master hasn’t been heard from since. He must still be in mourning over his father.

Kaeya nearly stopped in the middle of the crowded street. Was today really the one-year anniversary of Master Crepus’s death? How had it managed to slip his mind? He’s been busy lately with a promising lead, true, but to think that he would forget...

Which, long story cut ruthlessly short, leads him to where he is now. Tuning out his tumultuous thoughts with the help of alcohol and secrets.

Upon entering the tavern to raucous cheers, he had flitted from table to table like the social butterfly he's purported to be. The usual suspects greeted him with varying levels of warmth, inviting him to sit and keep them company. Stable hands and bandits alike shared a drink with him, words spilling from their lips like the fine wine they supped on.

After some time, though, he grew tired of their monotonous days and banal gripes. So he retreated to the bar counter. As he nursed a Death After Noon, he kept an ear out, listening carefully even as he chatted with Charles between customers.

Unfortunately, he hasn’t heard anything juicy yet. So and so is complaining about his wife, while someone else is haranguing her boss, and another is celebrating their birthday. Dull and uninteresting.

Can you blame him for getting so deep in his cups? There’s nothing else to do on such a slow night.

“So this is where you decided to hide out. Colour me surprised.”

Kaeya notes the shadow falling over the counter moments before a familiar drawl reaches his ears. He tilts his head up, blinking furiously when his vision blurs. The drinks he's downed thus far—how many has it been? He lost count after five, how unlike him—have certainly reached his bloodstream.

You stand beside his stool, your lips thinned into an unimpressed line. Despite how inebriated he is, the relevant information he has on you flashes through his mind. A Knight of Favonius. Captain of the Intelligence Team. Once a company grade officer, then sergeant, lieutenant, before ascending to captain upon the retirement of your superior.

As admired as he is by most of Mondstadt, you’re among the minority who are far from his biggest fans. For good reason, he supposes. During your first meeting, he had congratulated you on your promotion, before going on to flippantly insult your old captain. You’ve hated him ever since.

Which is why he’s puzzled by you approaching him first—outside of headquarters, at that. Such a phenomenon is rare, like catching a crystalfly in your hands.

“Captain! Fancy seeing you here,” he greets, adopting a jovial tone. Then your words register in his addled mind. “‘Hide out’, you said? Whatever would I do that for?”

You prop a hand on your hip. “You didn’t make an appearance at the meeting today. Needless to say, the Dandelion Knight isn’t too impressed with you at the moment.” You appraise him, looking underwhelmed by what you see. Ouch. “Strange. You don’t seem terribly ill to me.”

Ah. That. Kaeya had wanted to investigate some curious rumours he’d heard around the city, so he made up a flimsy excuse to dodge the captain’s meeting held this morning. Grand Master Varka likely hadn’t batted an eye over it, but not Jean. She’ll have concerns.

He hums noncommittally. The thought of annoying his oldest ally never fails to bring a smirk to his lips, but he isn’t quite in the mood right now. “Is that so. You must be here to sternly tell me to clean up my act then.”

You scoff. “Surely you don’t need a second babysitter. No, I’m off-duty, so I’m here for the same reason everyone else is: to drink.”

“Hear, hear.” He lifts his tankard as if to toast to you, but the sudden momentum causes him to sway dangerously in his seat.

“Careful!” Eyes widening in alarm, you reach out to steady him. “Geez, Alberich. How many drinks have you had?”

The palm of your hand is warm where it sits on his shoulder; he can tell that even with his furs in the way. He almost leans into the touch but catches himself at the last second. How mortifying. He can just picture your horrified reaction to him drunkenly nuzzling up against you.

Almost falling off his seat in a crowded tavern, instinctively seeking out your slightest touch... He needs to get a hold of himself. Or find a way to halt the conversation here, so he can resume drinking by his lonesome.

“Not nearly enough,” he answers airily, leaning an elbow on the bar counter. You drop your hand to your side; he makes a point to not stare at it as you do. “Where’s your entourage? I’m surprised they aren't following dutifully behind you.”

“They’re my subordinates, not my entourage.” You shift awkwardly. “And they aren’t here. It may surprise you, but they have lives outside of the Intelligence Team. They can enjoy one evening without their captain breathing down their necks.”

He eyes you in amusement. “In that case, you should join me. I would welcome the company.” He finishes off his tankard, then motions to Charles for another drink. The bartender doesn’t even ask which one as he takes the pewter mug. He knows him well by now, after all.

Kaeya expects you to turn him down and find a seat elsewhere. Usually, such an invitation is enough to send you running for the hills. You lean a hip against the counter instead, as if settling in. “If I am not mistaken, you’re needed at headquarters tomorrow. I strongly advise you to call it a night, Captain.”

“Aww, are you worried about me, Captain?” He manages a grin at the scowl his reply elicits. “Don’t be. It won’t be the first time I stumble into work hungover. Certainly won’t be the last either.”

“How reassuring,” you say dryly.

“I aim to please.”

He perks up when Charles returns with a full tankard. The delectable taste of Death After Noon still sits on his tongue, warm and heady. He very much wants to experience it again. When he lifts the mug to his mouth, however, he misses the rim. He steadies the tankard before it empties itself onto his lap, but some of the wine drips down his chin, ruining his vest.

Thank goodness he isn’t drinking red wine. Every adult in Mondstadt knows red wine stains are notoriously difficult to clean. Still, what a waste of a perfectly good sip.

“Oh, for Barbatos’s sake.” That’s all the warning he gets before his drink is rudely snatched from his hand. He protests but can only watch helplessly as you bring it to your lips.

Then you proceed to down it.

His brows raise higher and higher the longer your throat bobs. He's never seen you drink with such gusto before. Shouldn’t you be gasping for breath by now? But no, you empty the tankard in a single go, then slam it on the counter (Charles makes a face, but wisely says nothing) and meet his gaze without flinching.

Wow, is all that his intoxicated mind can conjure up at the feat.

“There, all done. Now let’s go. I am walking you back.” Your voice is firm, brooking no argument. How captain-like of you. “Wouldn’t want Mondstadt’s illustrious Cavalry Captain to be found passed out in an alleyway tomorrow.”

On any other day, he’d be mildly irked by your stubbornness. But he did just spill his drink down his front like a newborn babe. No wonder you brought up his rank. In your eyes, his conduct must not befit that of a high-ranking knight. He doesn’t care what assumptions people form about him, never has, but tonight has been a bust anyway. Maybe it's best to call it quits.

Sighing theatrically, he rises to his feet. “All right, I know when I have been beaten. But don’t change your plans on my account. I can head to the barracks by myself just fine.”

“I’m sure you can,” you say, “but letting you walk alone this late in your state would grate at my conscience. So would you stop talking for once, and let me take you home?”

You get what you want. Your words render him silent.

Home, you called the barracks. He supposes you consider that place your home. But is it his, truly?

He thinks of Khaenri’ah, nothing but a distant, bloody memory. He thinks of his father, and how in their final moments together, the man had stared through him like he wasn’t there. He thinks of the Dawn Winery, where he had spent several years causing mayhem. He thinks of Master Crepus, never dad, and a brother who doesn’t exist anymore.

No, the barracks aren’t his home. Maybe he’s never had one to begin with.

When he comes to, Kaeya registers you leading him in the direction of the tavern door, your hand on his shoulder blade. This quickly catches the attention of the patrons. They call out their goodbyes, some raising their tankards and others chuckling good-naturedly.

“Look at that! Our Cavalry Cap’n had too much to drink, eh?”

“What, are you tapping out already, Captain Kaeya?”

“Has to be escorted out by a fellow knight, no less!”

You wave over your shoulder. “Just doing my patriotic duty, that's all.”

Kaeya gives his audience an exaggerated wink (as well as he can with his one uncovered eye) followed by a lazy hand salute. His grin remains fixed in place until the door swings shut. The wooden barrier barely muffles the sounds of conversation and merriment coming from within.

Had it been that loud while he was inside? He hadn’t noticed.

He isn’t able to dwell on it for long, because you nudge him in the direction of headquarters. “Come on. We have a bit of a walk ahead of us. Let’s get to it.”

“Oh, very well. But only because you asked so nicely.”

“I wasn’t asking.”

“I know. I was being sarcastic.”

You nudge him harder, and he snickers under his breath as he walks.

This time of night, the cobblestone streets seem devoid of life. With the exception of Patton, who’s practically asleep standing up, the two of you don’t run into anyone. It's a stark change from how the city usually is, bright and bustling with crowds.

It suits him just fine, though. The crisp night air is sobering him up somewhat, the fog that had settled over his mind thinning. All too soon, he recalls everything he was trying to suppress.

Master Crepus. Diluc. His callousness and cruelty in forgetting them both.

In hindsight, he should have taken his mug back from you instead of just gaping like a fool. Sobriety is such a drag.

“You’re quiet,” you comment. You’re staring at him intently, your expression eerily similar to Timaeus’s when he is observing an alchemical reaction. It’s as if he is a specimen that you are keen on studying under a microscope.

He wants to scowl, to snap at you. “My apologies,” he says instead, as innocent as can be. “Were you waiting for me to strike up a conversation? Hold on a moment, let me think of a good topic...”

“That is not what I meant and you know it. It’s just, usually it’s impossible to get you to stop talking. The times I have seen you...indisposed”—buzzed as a bee, you undoubtedly mean—“that doesn’t change. You talk more, if anything.”

Curiously, your voice softens, an odd cadence colouring it. One he has not heard from you before, not directed at him at least. “I guess I’m just wondering if something is weighing on your mind. Is that what prompted you to drink so much tonight?”

By now, the two of you have walked down the stairway to the Knights of Favonius’s bulletin board. Of course, Hertha isn’t there this late to assign requests and bounties. The pieces of parchment pinned to the board flutter in the breeze. He stares at the sketch of a Ruin Guard, willing his sluggish mind to craft a suitable answer.

After a beat, his eye slides over to you. An impish grin curls at the corners of his mouth. “My, I had no idea that you watched my every move so closely. I’m flattered by the attention.”

Predictably, you sputter. “What even—that is not—you know what, if you want to dodge the question so badly, fine. We can just walk the rest of the way in silence.”

“As you wish, Captain.”

Although his words were said to fluster you into changing the subject, as you had correctly deduced, Kaeya means them. You have noticed him far more than he realized. As Captain of the Intelligence Team, it’s your job to be observant and keep tabs on others. He knows that. Still, it’s disconcerting to learn that you’ve had a close eye on him in particular.

He operates from the shadows for a reason; he can’t have you jeopardizing that by shining a light on him. Five months into your new position, and already you have proven yourself to be dangerous.

As you wished for, silence reigns as the two of you turn into an alley and approach two flights of stairs, leading to the center of the city. Kaeya resists pressing a hand against the nearest wall for balance. He had walked down a stairway unaided just moments ago, despite how unsteady he felt. Surely ascending some steps would prove to be easier.

Rather than focus on his feet, he looks up ahead. From his position, he can just barely glimpse the blades of a windmill, ever-turning against the dark backdrop of the night sky. He keeps his gaze there as he climbs, his boots scraping against stone.

He clears the first flight of stairs with little issue. See? Nothing to it.

Halfway up the second, Kaeya stumbles.

His surroundings tilt, blurring as he fumbles for balance. It’s a futile effort. Thanks to how inebriated he is, his limbs are too heavy and uncoordinated. The stone below rushes up to meet him.

Before his face can greet it, however, you catch him.

Your side moulds against his, a hand clasping his hip while the other carefully grasps at his spiked pauldron. His gloved hand covers yours reflexively as his racing heartbeat settles. He feels you stiffen at the touch, but you don't pull away. Neither does he.

For a moment, not a word is spoken between you both. The alley is filled only with the soft sound of breathing.

Then you click your tongue. “So much for heading back by yourself. You can barely keep your feet under you.” Your voice lilts with humour.

He knows this song and dance. It has been ingrained in him after all these months. You snark at him, he snarks back. Rinse and repeat. Although this is the first time he has heard levity in your tone; the first time it has been aimed at him, that is. He almost hadn’t thought you capable of it.

He straightens with a chuckle. “First at the tavern, and now in an alley. I just keep falling for you tonight, don’t I?”

You blink owlishly. It takes a moment for the words to sink in. Then a flustered expression crosses your features, before you compose yourself. “You are unbelievable.”

He grins. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

You roll your eyes, even as the corners of your lips twitch. “You would.”

Kaeya expects you to move away, so the two of you can resume walking, but you don’t. “Not that I mind having your hands on me, but...will you be letting go any time soon?”

“That depends.” A challenging glint appears in your eye. “Can you handle walking on your own? Or do you need me to cradle you the rest of the way to headquarters, like some damsel?”

He guffaws, taken off-guard by the retort. A reply escapes his loosened tongue before he can think better of it, “Archons, that sounded just like him.”

“Like who?”

“My brother.”

In the past, despite being underage, he was sometimes able to charm bartenders at Angel’s Share—new hires unaware of how to deal with him as of yet—into serving him drinks. Diluc would find him eventually, a disapproving twist to his mouth, and put a stop to it.

Back then, Kaeya was a lightweight and had to be supported back to headquarters. Diluc would scowl and roll his eyes the entire way, but there was still a softness in his gaze. His hands were strong, but careful; Kaeya knew that his brother would not let him fall. He could even be persuaded to join in when Kaeya began to sing, their off-key voices disturbing the silence of the night.

Come morning, while Kaeya nursed the inevitable headache and Jean nagged him about violating the Knights of Favonius Handbook, Diluc would snort. “Serves you right,” he’d say, then hand him a draught for curing hangovers.

Now Kaeya must weather the pain alone.

You tilt your head to the side, your gaze fixed on his. “I had no idea that you have a brother,” you say softly.

Had, he nearly corrects. But he has told you too much already.

This is why he is so careful when drinking in the company of others. Alcohol is a double-edged sword; as delectable as it is, it also loosens inhibitions. It’s what he relies on when charming information out of allies and adversaries alike, none of them the wiser of what they have given up.

How the tables have turned.

“Well, now you do.” A trace of bitterness enters his tone.

You eye him, quiet, before pulling back. You motion forward with your chin. “Let’s keep moving. We’ll never make it to headquarters at this pace.”

Relieved by the subject change, he listens. He makes a conscious effort to place one foot in front of the other, gaze trained on the remaining steps below. You stay at his side, closer than you were before. He can feel your hand hovering at the small of his back, ready to catch him should he trip once more, but he ignores it.

It won’t happen again. He’ll make sure of it.

The alley opens up to a view of the market district. Unfortunately, he doesn’t have long to enjoy the reprieve. The two of you turn right, away from the railing overlooking the main square, to climb two more flights of stairs. A left, and more stairways await.

By the time the Knights of Favonius Headquarters looms above you, Kaeya’s legs ache from the walk. He is very much looking forward to retiring to his quarters.

The knights stationed outside stiffen at the sight of you and Kaeya, standing at attention. They perform a salute in perfect unison. Do they rehearse that before every shift? Surely they must.

The guard on the left, with the glasses and unfortunate haircut, chirps, “Good evening, Captains! I hope you are doing well.” He appears wide awake despite the late hour.

At least the one on the right looks appropriately haggard. “Welcome back,” he grunts.

While Kaeya brushes past them with a nod of acknowledgement, eager to head inside, you stop. “Good evening, Athos, Porthos. Your shift ends soon, I hope? It can’t be terribly interesting, standing watch outside headquarters so late.”

“It’s no trouble at all, Captain!” Athos, as you had referred to him, says. “Guard duty may not be glamorous, but it is still important.”

“Much as I agree with the lad, I can’t bring myself to be so damn cheerful about it,” Porthos sighs, his words tinged with self-deprecation. “Must be ‘cause of these old bones.”

“That’s not true, Sir Porthos. Your bones aren’t that old!” the younger knight argues, prompting the older to shake his head with a chuckle.

“Athos isn’t wrong,” you add. “You are far more sprightly than most knights I know.”

“If that’s true, then Mondstadt is in trouble.”

Smiling and shaking your head, you finally pass by them, climbing the short steps to return to Kaeya's side. He lifts a brow as he pulls on one of the large oak doors, holding it open for you.

It’s almost comical how quickly your smile disappears. Your eyes narrow as you enter inside. “What’s that look for?”

“Nothing,” he says breezily, following after you. The door falls closed behind you both with a loud, echoing thud. “Just that I didn’t know you were so chummy with the guards.”

It is blindingly bright inside the Knights of Favonius Headquarters, as if it isn’t nearing midnight. The sconces on the walls are lit up, as is the chandelier hanging in the center of the main hall. The two of you make your way towards the—joy of all joys—staircase. The barracks for knights are located on the second floor, and on the floor above that, separate quarters for the captains.

“I am off-duty right now. It’s not unprofessional for me to speak informally with them.”

His eye widens. “Why, I never said it was unprofessional, Captain.”

You grind your teeth so hard he can practically hear the enamel wearing away. “You implied it.” No, he didn’t. Your distaste for him has you imagining mockery where there is none. As if Kaeya has any room to judge someone for acting unprofessional.

“I did? That’s news to me.” Privately, he marvels at how easily he can agitate you. Him, no one else—he has observed you long enough to know your prickliness is reserved for him alone. Maybe that’s why he annoys you further instead of clearing up the many miscommunications that tend to occur. Not that you’ll believe him, even if he’s being completely honest.

You huff. “How the Dandelion Knight manages to put up with you, I’ll never know,” you mutter.

“How rude, Captain! Jean doesn’t put up with me, she considers me indispensable.”

You cut a look at him. “Yes, I’m sure she thought the same when you failed to show up to today’s meeting.”

“Must you bring that up again? I shudder just thinking of the lecture she’ll have ready for me in the morning. Perhaps my mysterious ailment should plague me for a little while longer...”

“Prolonging the inevitable will do you no favours.” You pause briefly, then add, “Ah, I almost forgot to mention. After the meeting, I ran into Inspector Eroch. He was waiting outside and asked after you. He seemed irked when I informed him that you were absent today.”

If Kaeya was not so skilled at masking his reactions, he would’ve perked up at that. He might have even stopped in his tracks or whipped his head around to look at you. But he knows better than to give himself away so obviously. He leisurely climbs the steps, his features revealing only vague interest. “Oh? Somehow I doubt he was upset out of concern for my wellbeing.”

You glance over. “I wouldn’t know. He did not say anything when I asked why he wanted to see you, or if I could pass on a message. He just brushed me off and left.”

“Don’t be hurt by his shameful conduct, Captain. I for one enjoy your company immensely.”

You ignore his thoughtful statement. “I thought that he might have had a prior engagement with you, which you missed due to being terribly ill.”

He shrugs. “If we did, I don’t recall it.”

That earns him another look, longer than the one before. He doesn’t flinch away from it, his expression remaining serene. Privately, he wonders what you know. Are you merely intrigued by what Inspector Eroch might want with him? Or are you more aware than you’re letting on?

After all, Eroch is the one Kaeya has been secretly investigating for the past year.

Looks like the inspector has caught on. About time. No doubt he wants to figure out just how much Kaeya knows—which is not much, unfortunately. He knows that Eroch has more than just Mondstadt’s best interests in mind; a Fatui spy like him would have just the opposite. But he is unsure what the man is up to, or who he even is.

He does, however, have an inkling. Several, even.

Inspector Eroch had been insistent on covering up the details of Master Crepus’s death. For the good of Mondstadt, he claimed, not wanting the citizenry to lose faith in the Knights of Favonius. Grand Master Varka had ultimately sided with him. It resulted in Diluc resigning his position and leaving the city a year ago.

Kaeya had kept an eye on the inspector after that. He knew there was more to the situation than just preserving Mondstadt’s trust in the Knights, and it had everything to do with the dangerous and evil power Master Crepus had harnessed. It was only a matter of figuring out what. And once he has all of the information...

Well, he knows what Diluc would do, once upon a time. Blazing with righteous fury, he’d take his findings to Grand Master Varka, insisting on Eroch’s arrest and expulsion from the Knights of Favonius. He would see it as retribution for how poorly his father’s death had been handled.

But Kaeya suffers from no delusions. Maybe he looked into Eroch because of Master Crepus. Maybe he wanted some kind of revenge for what happened. Maybe he yearned to atone for his past inaction. None of that means he has any heroic intentions.

If it serves his interests better, he won’t expose the inspector immediately. He will hoard his knowledge instead, keeping his cards close to his chest until it’s the right time to play them.

That is how he has always operated. Master Crepus's death and Diluc's departure have not changed that. For a brief, nonsensical moment, he wishes they had. Then common sense returns to him. A foolhardy sense of justice is of no use to him. He’ll leave that to Diluc.

While he extricates himself from his wayward thoughts, you turn away to clear the last few steps. “If it is important, surely he will try to approach you again,” you say.

“I look forward to it with bated breath.”

You scoff, rightfully skeptical, but don’t respond. Clearly, you are content to leave it at that.

He wonders at how easily you let the subject drop. Had you suspected something, you would have pushed to learn more, wouldn’t you? Now is as opportune a time as any; it’s late, he’s tired and drunk, and the both of you are alone. Does that make you oblivious, or an idiot, or crafty?

Having made it to the third floor, the two of you make your way down the hallway. His quarters are before your own, three doors on the left. He stops in front of his door, reaching into one of many hidden coat pockets to produce his key.

He glances at you. You have yet to leave for own your room. “You don’t have to hover at my side, you know,” he says with a touch of amusement. “I may be tipsy, but I am no longer in any danger of being harassed by ruffians or passing out in the streets. Unless you're secretly harbouring nefarious intentions towards me, Captain.”

“You’ll just have to wait and find out,” is your unruffled response.

Chuckling under his breath, he unlocks his door and lets it swing open wide. It’s dark inside, faint moonlight shining through the small window above his desk. Coupled with the sconces out in the hallway, however, there is enough light for him to stumble to his bedside without stubbing a single toe. He doesn’t bother to close the door on you; he has nothing to hide.

Kaeya knows what his quarters must look like to a stranger. They’re a mess, as if someone had searched them in a haste and not bothered to clean up afterward. The walls are bare, save for a map of Mondstadt that he’d hung up ages ago. Tomes of all sizes and loose leaves of parchment litter his oak desk, pushed up against a wall. A quill lies abandoned atop a half-finished note with ink drying on its nib. His closet door is cracked open, a discarded boot dissuading anyone from forcing it shut.

Yes, his quarters are a mess. But he knows exactly where everything is. Should someone actually attempt to search his things, he would know immediately. Not that they would find anything particularly damning. He isn’t foolish enough to leave important documents or sensitive information lying about—nothing he is unwilling to part with, anyway.

“Horrifying, but unsurprising,” he hears you mutter to yourself.

Kaeya doesn’t even consider slipping out of his ruined clothes or engaging you in further conversation. Now that he has made it back to his quarters, all he can think about is the sweet embrace of sleep. He sinks into his unmade bed, draping an arm over his face.

You continue to linger in the doorway. “You should change before you fall asleep.”

“Mhm.”

“You'll regret not doing so in the morning.”

“Uh-huh.” He still doesn’t move.

“Alberich. You stink of booze.”

“You sure know how to compliment a guy, Captain. I’m impressed.”

You sigh, long and loud. He waits to hear the door close behind you, only for you to walk up to his bedside. Your steps are slow, hesitant yet purposeful. He stiffens, immediately on-guard, but fights his instincts in order to remain still. What are you planning?

He feels you grip his boot. Metal jingles as you undo the buckle. Then you pry it off.

He lifts his arm to peer up at you. “What are you doing?”

“What does it look like?” You set his boot on the ground, then move on to the other one. “If you won’t change, you should at least take off your shoes. You’ll dirty your sheets otherwise.”

Oh, you make it so easy for him to twist everything you say into an innuendo. For once he resists the urge. “You forgot something,” he says instead. He wiggles his sock-clad foot at you. Just to see if you will do it.

You grimace, swatting his leg away. “Absolutely not. I don’t want to be anywhere near those.”

So you say. But you’re taking his boots off for him out of your own volition. There is no need for you to do any of this. It’s not your duty to stop him from drinking himself into a stupor, or walk him back to headquarters unharmed, or all but tuck him into bed. Yet here you are.

What is it that you want? There have been plenty of opportunities for you to try and take advantage of his drunken state, but you have sidestepped every one. Frustration brews in his sternum.

“Do you do this for everyone who you hate?” he finds himself asking, tone purposely lighthearted.

You pause in your ministrations to stare at him. “What? I don't hate you.” At his disbelieving look, you insist, “I don’t. You have always been a pain to deal with, sure, but I never once felt that way.”

He smiles, unconvinced. “Not even when I insulted your dear old captain?”

“Insulted my... That was months ago, when we first met.” Despite your bewilderment, you take a moment to contemplate his question. “I was upset with you, yes. But now that I’ve had this position for some time...maybe your assessment wasn’t off. When I was lieutenant, I didn’t always see eye-to-eye with my captain. They were too set in their ways and scorned most criticism. I respected them, and still do, but I shouldn’t be ignorant of their faults.”

Your gaze meets his once more. “In a way, what you said that day led me to realize that. You weren’t badmouthing my captain; you didn’t have a vendetta or want to get a rise out of me. At least, I don’t think you did. You must have legitimate issues with their leadership, as a captain yourself.”

He watches you shrewdly. Your tone was even, your expression clear. He cannot detect any deception from you. Of course, that means little. Still, perhaps you’re telling the truth. Perhaps you don’t hate him after all.

A headache, newly formed, pounds at his temple. If he were more sober, he would be better equipped to handle such a revelation. He’ll have to come to a proper conclusion later.

You fiddle with the buckle on his remaining boot. “And what about you?”

“Hmm? What about me?”

“You have ample reason to look down on me. Most of the knights know that you aren’t just Cavalry Captain and Quartermaster. Your role is more important than that. Surely you would make a better...” you trail off, your jaw working silently.

Kaeya knows how that sentence ends. Surely you would make a better Captain of the Intelligence Team than me. It doesn’t come as a surprise.

Up until now, he thought he knew you well. You made it no secret you loathed him. You have never said so explicitly, but he has a talent for reading people. It’s a classic case of envy. He has seen it many times before. You compare yourself to him and find yourself wanting. It colours the way you interact with him; your words brusque, your gaze narrowed.

Not only did he insult your captain, but you consider him more capable than you. Your hatred makes sense. It’s predictable.

Or so he believed, until tonight.

“You know what, never mind. Forget I asked.” Uh-oh. Seems he took too long to respond. You busy yourself with unbuckling his boot, avoiding his eye.

If he were to be honest, there are many ways he could answer you. He thinks you are a better captain than your superior could ever hope to have been. He thinks you are a leader capable of inspiring undying loyalty in your officers. He thinks you have a deep, unflinching love for Mondstadt and its people. He thinks you constantly push yourself to greater heights, to the point it lights a fire in him as well.

He admits to none of those things, in the end.

“Give yourself some credit, Captain,” he murmurs. You glance over in surprise. He meets your gaze. For perhaps the first time in a while, he hopes his words sound sincere—not because he doesn’t mean them, but because he does. “I know the officers under your supervision think you’re a good leader. They wouldn’t want anyone else to take your place.” Certainly not someone like me.

Instead of reassuring you, however, his answer seems to do the opposite. You look frustrated. “That isn’t what I...” you trail off. You search his features, silent, before your brow furrows. “I can’t tell if you mean what you just said. Sometimes I’m not sure I ever can.”

He takes care not to allow his features to visibly harden. Of course you would doubt him, the one time he tries to be honest with you. What else did he expect? Maybe you don't hate him, maybe you never have, but that means little. You won’t ever fully trust him. To be fair, the feeling is mutual.

His mouth tastes unbearably bitter. It must be the wine.

“At this point, I’m willing to say just about anything if it’ll mean I can get some shut-eye.” He feels no satisfaction upon seeing your shoulders stiffen. He still manages to grin. “Well, Captain? Any other requests?”

“No,” you say. Then you tug off his boot with a brisk motion.

He stifles a yelp. “Hey, now! No need to be so rough.”

“My sincere apologies.” You set the boot down next to his other one, your lips thinned. “I should go. Wouldn’t want you to lose more sleep than you already have. You have a long day ahead of you tomorrow, after all.”

Talk about vindictive. Despite his irritation, he has to fight a smile. Knowing you, you’ll see it and take it the wrong way, as you usually do.

Having finished removing his boots, you turn and walk for the door without another word.

He’s struck with the odd urge to stop you. To reach out, take your hand in his, and tug you back. Not because he wants something from you, or needs to tell you something. He wishes you would stay a little longer, that’s all. Wants the silence to be filled by your voice instead of his thoughts.

Now he knows he’s had too much to drink. He’s contemplating such ridiculous things.

Before his addled mind can catch up and he can say something, apologize perhaps, you shut the door behind you. Your footsteps travel down the hallway, slightly hurried. The door to your quarters creaks open then closed.

He’s too late. It’s for the best.

Kaeya lies back and stares up at the ceiling. His vision swims, as if he’s adrift at sea. Closing his eye only makes it worse.

His mind pores over the events of the day. Investigating Eroch, remembering Master Crepus and Diluc, visiting the tavern, running into you. He feels restless, pulled in several directions at once.

With a harsh exhale, he rises to his feet and locks his door. Then he begins his nightly ritual.

His pauldron is first to go. It hits the floor with a dull noise. Then he peels off his gloves and tosses them on the desk. The burns on his hands have long since healed, but he still deals with numbness now and then. Not many know they even exist; he doesn’t want anyone taking advantage of a potential weakness. His eyepatch follows closely after.

He removes the Cryo Vision from his belt last. He stares at it, its blue glow washing over his scarred palm and turning his skin a sickly brown hue. If it’s been a year since Master Crepus’s death, it has been about a year since he was gifted a Vision as well. The sight of it has been a hard reminder ever since. Of how he’d won a difficult battle. Of how he’d finally revealed the truth. Of how he can never speak it again.

He tucks the Vision under his pillow, then collapses back into bed. An odd sensation fills him, as it does every time he completes this ritual. It’s like he has taken off every scrap of armour he has and foolishly exposed himself to danger, despite being alone in the stillness of his quarters.

Ignoring the uncomfortable feeling, he closes his eyes and waits for sleep to take him under.

It never does.

[abbynx]

Being Sorlato’s child + Being babysat by La squadra

A/N: Soooo, this is a direct sequel from the one-shot “Encounter” if you haven’t read it yet, feel free to browse it here 

Genre: Fluff, platonic, wholesome headcanons

- After the encounter, the couple found themselves thinking about it all the time, how different they acted to a child at the face of danger, and how afraid they were and how quick they were to act upon instinct and save you. There was certainly something the couple felt in their chest they can’t fathom but somehow liked the pleasant feeling. 

- One time Sorbet was found lounging around the La Squadra headquarters with a pamphlet regarding parenting whilst waiting for the meeting. When asked why he was reading that he nonchalantly replies that the thing was lying around and decided to read it because, “Why not?” One knows not to question him any further, so they let him be. 

- Gelato was found longingly staring at parents with their kids on the playground whilst on a mission and again, no one dared to speak a word of it. He didn’t leave even if the mission was over, until Sorbet was called in and had to physically drag him away. 

- They both knew it was getting out of hand because all they can think of now was wanting to raise a child of their own but they knew their circumstance were the least ideal to put a child in. For crying out loud, they kill people for a living and they didn’t really want to subject a child into this mess of their’s. 

- “God, is this what baby fever feels like?” 

- The couple has discussed about this, over and over than they can recall. When Gelato would suddenly mention, “You know, if we were to have a son I think that you can teach him how to ride a bike. That’d be sweet to watch to be honest.” or Sorbet saying, “If we were to have a daughter, I get to threaten her boyfriend to bring her back home before dinner.” 

- Once again, they were out to go on their once a week date all to their selves and decided to go to the same restaurant they had to stop in to save the child. And on their way their, what are the odds, the aforementioned child coming up to them and greeting them. 

“Ciao signore Sorbet! Signore Gelato!” 

W-was this a sign??? 

 "Ahh, Y/N!" Gelato was practically enthusiastic, he can just pick you up, but of course, he has to bind himself down. 

 "Out in the middle of the night again, I see." Sorbet points out. 

 "Aheh, yes sir..." You sheepishly responded. "But I really have to do everything if I want to graduate elementary with high marks." 

 - After a brief chat, weather, school and whatnot, once again you went on with your merry little way. After that, it was back for longing and yearning for the couple. 

 - The rest of La Squadra noticed this, but didn't knew how to help; until Melone picked up on the signs the couple were exuding: Sorbet reading the parenting pamphlet, Gelato longingly gazing towards parents bonding with their children, the two of them talking away about 'If we were to have a child...'— why, Melone's diagnosis: Baby fever. 

 - Melone somehow came up with an elaborate scheme involving an orphanage, did a couple of research. Due to some... Fortunate moment, somehow, someway, the figure running the same orphanage you resided in has made quite the list of enemies all his years. 

 "Melone you know that you can just tell them it's okay for them to adopt the child, right???" Risotto looks up from the detailed, complex document sent in by Babyface's user. 

 - Yes, it was stupidly complicated and a lot of work compared to just simply signing papers and adopting the child. The paperwork would be, again, stupidly complicated, but at least it doesn't involve bloodshed. It's not like the couple shied away from shedding blood but that wasn't the point. 

 - Capo Risotto had to consider their circumstances to adopt a child. Like I said, the dilemma was killing them and simply can't act out of selfishness and adopt a child just because they wanted to, it wasn't the same as a adopting a pet.

 - Cue the four hour meeting with the couple, discussing about what they can do and what they cannot do. Risotto was most certainly happy for the two of them to be adopting a child of their own, taking care of them and along of those lines but again, the fact they are a part of a crime syndicate and there were a lot of things they discussed about. 

 - After that, everything was settled and got started with the process of adopting the child. They didn't have to chose, they already had their eyes set on a specific kid; Y/N L/N, age eleven, abandoned by their parents when they were born, who adores reading and loves (insert food) and— what? They've done their research!

 - The couple was just beyond elated!

 - Through the process of adopting you they learned you were six 

 - Now that fact was uncovered, they were now more concerned and pissed why the orphanage would neglect a first grader and let them return from school at eight in the evening. And the fact that they met you under the circumstance of danger, pretending to be the couple's kid in desperation. 

 - Needless to say, a lot of things are going to change in your life, especially at the aspect of your security. They are a part of those people you should fear at night, admittedly gelato has almost pulled a gun on you that fateful night out of sheer jealousy, and didn't even register the fact you were barely half Sorbet's height.

 - First and foremost, you won't be staying in school longer than six thirty, as the couple takes turn on picking you up. They understand and adore the fact you're a hardworking kid thriving to have a scholarship in college despite being a literal first grader, but being a little kid walking alone in the middle of an evening is frightfully concerning. And in those times wherein either sorbet or Gelato picks you up, they'd buy you treats you want but not enough to spoil your appetite for dinner. 

- You did not hesitate to address them the way you addressed them that one fateful night when they tucked you in your new room for the very first time.. Gelato cried after that and Sorbet had to hold him to his chest to clam him down. Ugh, you were so effortless at making the two of them so soft. 

 - They're underpaid, not broke, so the couple spoils you in an overwhelming rate, the entirety of La Squadra were beginning to get concerned. Proscuitto scolded the two that they might spoil you rotten, but they reassured them you weren't. 

 - Speaking of La Squadra, the couple considered them as their family. Sorbet and Gelato did not hesitate to introduce you to them not as La Squadra, but as your uncles.

 - All of them were touched that Sorbet and Gelato want them to be a part of their child's life, that one of them would often volunteer to watch over you if the two were away. The couple were not going to introduce you to them as assassins and took advantage of your gullible nature as a young child. they don't intend to hide it as a secret from you. Perhaps someday they'll tell you their line of career, but six was not the right age to do so. 

 - Which brings us to their circumstances, the fact that they're assassins and how it is not an ideal career for people who has an attachment outside of their jobs. They were extremely careful in terms of that, wanting to protect and prevent others from using you against the couple. Well, now there's now a fate worse than death if ever that happens. 

 - With new responsibilities, Risotto understood them and gave them less jobs in order to take care and watch over you. But there were times where the two were both absent, prompting one of La Squadra to babysit you.

- Melone, Formaggio and Proscuitto are top picks for babysitting duties! but, of course, there are disadvantages. Melone is... Melone. Formaggio can and will act as a kid rather than an adult. And Proscuitto, well, he can be a bit too domineering. So yes, they are A-tier babysitters, nonetheless. 

 - B-tier babysitters would be Illuso, Pesci, and Ghiaccio. Illuso can be a bit too dismissive, Pesci will be too anxious and overprotective-- like in an extreme rate, and Ghiaccio... Hide your copy of Merchant of Venice, and you'll live another day. 

 - S-tier would be Risotto, except the fact that he is always busy. He is good with kids and he can guarantee their safety, I mean, need I say more?

 - Under no circumstances, are they allowed to swear around you. The couple already had restricted their foul language around you, and they expect the others to do so as well. Ghiaccio is highkey sweating when you started saying bullshit whenever you're frustrated. He profusely begged you not to day that again in exchange for ice cream. 

“Bullshit!” Ghiaccio’s heart skipped a beat after hearing your small voice whisper-shout on the dinner table as you attempted to solve a rather difficult math problem. 

 - Your relationship with them was well. They were protective of you, love you and support you. They're very affectionate, but not in an overwhelming amount... Well, at least they try to hold back but all they want to do is to spend time with their baby and love them unconditionally, as they should. 

 - Padre Gelato is more of a fun dad, very playful and energetic. He likes lifting you up to his hip before gently nuzzling his nose against yours. Dad jokes subconsciously slips from his mouth, be careful. He does a lot of cool tricks with his butterfly knife, twirling the sharp blade around while you stare in awe, whilst Papa Sorbet was more concerned that he'll accidentally cut himself, or that you might try the trick unsupervised. Needless to say, Padre was responsible enough to keep his knife in his pocket at all times to prevent that. 

“When will you teach me how to do that, Papa?” 

“When your old enough, N/N.” 

 - Papa Sorbet is a bit more reserved, but certainly not distant. He will not hesitate to kill someone who tries to hurt you. So he's the perfect person to serve as your teacher, as he helps you with school work and help you learn other practical things: cooking, baking, doing laundry by hand (which product is more effective to get blood off clothes), self-defense, etc. 

“So if there’s a stranger following you, what do you do?”

“Cling to the nearest person I see and pretend that I know them?”

 - They both tuck you into bed after reading you a bed time story, though it only lasted until you were nine because you insisted you were already grown up (cue, Gelato hiding his face on Sorbet's chest because his baby is all grown up--), but some things don't change because by bed time, they just check up on you even if they won't tuck you in to sleep.

 - Extremely supportive and encouraging. Like, they're basically the gasoline you pour on fire to intensify the fire of your passion. Like, they'll cheer you on sport games and competitions, tries their best to attend recitals, etc, etc. Though sometimes one is missing due to missions, sometimes both, but in the end of the day, you were confident that they would have loved it. 

 - Unbeknownst to you, at the end of the competition, a certain figure will come behind you and lock you on a headlock before harshly rubbing their knuckle atop your head. Uncle Formaggio can be a mean sometimes. So yes, if ever the couple is absent from your competitions, one of your uncles would volunteer to go. 

“‘Sup, little sport?” 

“Uncle Formaggio, my hair--!”

 - The first time you celebrated your birthday with your new parents was your seventh. They wanted to throw a goshdarn ball, but you insisted to keep the party amongst yourself. Just you, your papa and padre, and your  seven weird uncles. You were already a big family, and you were happy with that.

[gardenergulfie]

Babysitting a Demigod chapter 1

Rating: G

Word Count: 1816

Chapters: 1/4

Relationships: Fluctra & drewtunes, Other Relationship Tags to Be Added

Characters: drewtunes, Fluctra, Other Character Tags to Be Added

Additional Tags: Canon Compliant, Fluff, No Plot/Plotless, Not RPF, Humor

“Make fort then knife.” The child said. Awareness dawned on Fluctra slowly as she processed his words.

“You want me to make a fort with you and then you’ll give me the knife?” Fluctra asked. The toddler stared at her with an expression that clearly read “Yes, you dumbass.” It was a creepy expression to see on a baby’s face but she got the message.

--

Drew's not a normal 2 year old by any means and anyone who babysits him has to learn how to manage a demigod.

AO3 link Next Chapter

Fic below the cut

The hidden basement of the Castrators Assassin Guild was awfully quiet today. Well, actually it was a pretty nice amount of quiet for Fluctra. She was sitting in a chair in the main hallway, cleaning and taking care of her weapons. Everyone else was out today, doing contracts and other business. Even Isa, who normally stayed here to manage the bakery front, had left. Fluctra thought the vampire mentioned running low on sugar a few days ago. Fluctra flipped a knife offhandedly before checking it at the wall. It sunk into the wooden wall like, well, a hot knife through butter. Satisfied, Fluctra retrieved it, setting it with her set.

A small clamor caught Fluctra’s attention. Fluctra stiffened before beginning to walk quietly towards the noise. Thoughts of intruders flashed through her brain before she heard the familiar babbles of a young child coming from the crash. Well it seems like she isn’t the only one here after all. Fluctra rounded the corner to see Drew, Erin’s beloved son, sitting on the floor. The small dark-haired child dressed in his usual pink sweatshirt was surrounded by many different items: Isa’s metal pans, some chiseled bits for building, the towels normally used to clean blood off blades, and a woven basket overturned. Fluctra didn’t question how he’d gotten all this stuff, she knew it was better not to ask honestly. He was just a really strange toddler, everyone knew that. Child of god and all that jazz. Said child of god was looking up at her as she stared at him. Fluctra wasn’t the greatest with kids. No one was hiring her to murder them and as such she really didn’t interact with them much, being an assassin and all. Drew was the only exception but she still wasn’t dealing with him by herself like, ever. Erin always had someone watching him to make sure he didn’t get hurt and Fluctra made sure she never was assigned babysitting duties. She may respect Erin but she has limits.

Speaking of a babysitter, where was Drew’s? The kid was just stealing stuff unsupervised. Sure he could get away with basically anything even with a guardian watching him but touching Isa’s bakeware was basically asking to be murdered, everyone knew that. There’s no way anyone would just let Erin’s kid do something that would put him in any kind of danger. Plus no one was here today. It was just Fluctra as the only adult around. Well, the only person older than a toddler around but you get the point. Someone was supposed to be watching this kid and it was not Fluctra.

Fluctra looked over at the babysitting chart tapped to the wall, still making sure to keep one eye on Drew. It wasn’t her name listed under today’s date, no; in fact, it was Hunter’s. Fluctra groaned. Hunter was not the best person to trust with a kid. Flucta knew he disliked babysitting duties, well most duties in general. Hell, he’s not even here most days. Someone must have thought it would have been a pretty sick joke to write him down for today’s date. Well Fluctra is not laughing, seeing as Hunter is nowhere to be seen and she’s the only one around. Great, now she’s a babysitter. Her quiet day of relaxing weapons cleaning just got cancelled because now she has to make sure Drew doesn’t accidentally kill himself.

Speaking of Drew, she should probably be keeping an eye on him. Fluctra focused back on Drew to see that he was not by his mess of stuff. In fact, he wasn’t anywhere in her line of sight. Fluctra could feel a headache coming on. She got lost in thought for one minute and the kid’s gone. Great, just great. Now she has to go find this kid.

Luckily for her, toddlers are not quiet at all and her trained assassin ears picked up on the telltale signs of mischief being made down the hall. The same place in the hall that she was just sitting in while she cleaned her weapons. The same place that had. All. Her. Weapons. Welp, Fluctra is doomed.

Speedwalking back into the other room, Fluctra was met with the sight of a small child holding a very big knife. Seriously, how is he even picking that up? It looks like a broadsword in his tiny hands.

“Drew, put down the knife.” She commanded in what she hoped in a gentle tone. Drew, lawless child that he is, instead just pointed the knife at her. Ok, bad, the toddler has a knife and also seems to know how to use it. If this were any other person she’d be commending their form but this is Erin’s fucking kid who is pointing a knife at her. See, this is why children shouldn’t be allowed to spectate on spars. They learn.

The two of them were at an impasse. Drew was not putting down the knife and Fluctra did not want to get near Drew holding the knife. She’s pretty sure he’d stab her right in the shin, he’s at the perfect level for that. Fluctra wracked her brain for any other solution to this problem that did not involve her being stabbed and maybe even losing a few fingers. What did kids like? Toys? Drew had toys but honestly she thinks the knife might count as a toy to him right now. Food? Maybe she could bribe him! Now that’s an idea.

“Drew, if you give me the knife I’ll get you snacks. Snacks are better than knives. Snacks yum yum.” God this was awful, she was baby-talking to an actual baby. How the mighty had fallen, from feared assassin to stressed babysitter. Thank god no one else was around to see this.

Drew thought on her offer before simply saying, “No.” Fluctra was surprised that he even knew words but then again she really didn’t know how babies work. He’d never spoken to her, that's for sure. He’d rejected her offer so she needed another one. She still wasn’t ready to risk losing a limb to a child. Again she thought hard about what kids might like. Her mind went back to all those items he had dropped on the floor. Maybe she could make a trade?

Fluctra rushed back to that part of the base, calling a quick “Stay there” behind her. She piled all the stuff into the basket and made her way back to Drew who was still holding the knife.

“Ok I have your stuff. I have no idea what you might want with this but you were carrying it so you probably needed it for something. So here’s my deal, we trade this stuff for the knife.” The teenage assassin offered. Drew gave her the most deadpan look she’d ever seen on a toddler’s face. Fluctra shivered. Those dark beady eyes really stared into your soul huh.

“Fort.” He stated. Fluctra blinked in confusion.

“What?” She said dumbly. Fluctra, trained assassin of 15 years old, rendered speechless from the word of a child. She was so happy no one else was here to see this. At least god granted her one small mercy today.

“Make fort then knife.” The child said. Awareness dawned on Fluctra slowly as she processed his words.

“You want me to make a fort with you and then you’ll give me the knife?” Fluctra asked. The toddler stared at her with an expression that clearly read “Yes, you dumbass.” It was a creepy expression to see on a baby’s face but she got the message.

“Ok ok we’ll make a fort. Just follow me, we can use the meeting room table as a base.” Fluctra said, hefting the basket of fort-making items up and walking with Drew the Pointy Menace to the meeting room. She was already planning the fort in her head. They could use Isa’s pans for walls and the towels for banners. The chairs could be used as support and Fluctra was tall enough to reach the top of the closet where she knows the extra sheets are. Fluctra may be being coerced into making this fort but damn is it going to be the best fort ever made.

An hour and a half later, the fort was done. A masterpiece of engineering seeing as it was made by a teenage assassin and a baby. It was cosy inside and big enough for Fluctra to sit up straight and not bonk her head, which she was doing. A mess of blankets and pillows covered the stone floor and Drew was making good use of them. He still had the knife but was using his other hand to finish the detailing of the final wall. Yes, there was detailing on the walls. Fluctra did say this would be the best fort ever made.

But the fort was made and Fluctra really needed that knife back. It was getting late and she did not want anyone coming back to find Drew holding a knife and Fluctra just standing there. She cleared her throat loudly and held out her hand. Drew looked down at her hand and for a moment Fluctra worried he wasn’t going to keep his end of the deal but thankfully that moment passed and the knife was dropped safely into her hand. Fluctra checked it over, making sure that it wasn’t here in any way or that Drew hadn’t tried to teethe on it or anything. Thankfully, it was fine. Fluctra secured the blade back in its rightful place in one of her many secret compartments hidden in her armor.

“Well this was fun but I really have to leave. Weapons won’t polish themselves. We should do this again sometime. Actually, we shouldn't. I am not babysitting anymore.” Fluctra said to Drew as she climbed out of the fort. She looked back at him and he looked at her with his strangely intelligent and nerving baby face.

“…Ok, fine, the fort building was fun and maybe, just maybe, we could do it again.” Fluctra admitted. It's those dark eyes, man, they see everything and just force it outta you. Drew didn’t say anything but gave Fluctra a nod. Fluctra nodded back. Interaction over with, she left the kid to his fort. And just in time, she could hear light footsteps coming from the bakery upstairs. From the sounds of it Isa and Erin are back. Perfect. No more babysitting duty for her now that Drew’s mom is back.

“Has anyone seen my pans?” Came the call of Isa’s voice. Fluctra winced. Oh, god, she really hoped she’s not gonna get murdered for it. If Drew snitches she swears to god she will commit child murder. Fluctra speed away from the soon to be murderscene of one baby. That child really wasn’t her problem anymore. She had weapons to clean.

[chazz-anova]

Hard To Say No

Fandom: Far Cry 5 Word Count: 2k Pairing: Faith Seed x Female OC Summary: Antoinette is going through her morning routine when Faith knocks on her door A/N: Okay this one ALSO got a little long but shoutout to @dep-yo-tee for giving me the prompt "Can I play with your hair?" I had so much fun with this one and getting to delve deeper into these two's dynamic! 💖💖💖

A pristine mirror reflected a less than clean soul. Antoinette stared at herself with a heavy heart, as today was bittersweet in so many ways.

It had been a year since the passing of her father, and since she’d officially joined Eden’s Gate. In a way things had gotten better, but in the same way things had gotten much worse. She had traded one Father for another, finding a mentor in Joseph Seed. Despite the good work she was doing with Eden’s Gate- she felt as empty as ever. Her melancholy pervaded her soul, these feelings swirling around her core an unholy cocktail of poison emotion.

Her father had always told her she was destined for greatness and she followed closely in his footsteps, but to no avail. He had left her to her own devices, and it felt more like falling into a never ending abyss.

Joseph Seed had seen her potential and shaped her further- bending her mind and will to fit the Project’s needs. It became her duty to show the non-believers the consequences of not following the path, of not heeding the Collapse. Sometimes Anne would wonder if the Collapse was truly on the horizon, but turning on the news quelled any doubts. In the voices of newscasters and world leaders, Antoinette heard the hoofbeats of the horsemen of the apocalypse.

It had taken a while; but the woman had realized that before Eden’s Gate, she had nothing. Her father had crafted her beliefs from a young age, and talk of cleansing sinners was quite familiar to her even before Joseph.

William Chambers had thought it his holy purpose to repent those he deemed unclean. In his eyes- most women were harlots and sinners; they were his preferred victims. His knife and trade being passed down to his little girl was a sick irony.

His knife would cleanse these women with holy fire, their blood-letting was all part of the process. Upon their death- he both believed and taught that his victims then ascended to heaven. After this, they were free of their sins and accepted into the light of God.

Her father’s passing left her with a hole inside; torn ragged out of her heart as her only family left faded from existence. Meeting the Seeds and joining Eden’s Gate had only required that Anne tweak her beliefs in the slightest, and she became an asset early in the cultivation of the Project.

And so her dad’s blade became her own, and she took up his cause for the Father. Her work in the Misery brought little joy, but it satisfied the darkest part of her. Every day she fed the monster lurking in the shadows of her soul and every day she felt her mind growing more twisted.

Yet in all this darkness there was a single light: Faith Seed.

The world once knew her as Rachel Jessop, but she was so much more than that now. Annie had watched her charge grow into her strength; Faith became a force to be reckoned with as a Herald of the Henbane.

The day Joseph had told Antoinette she was to watch over Faith as she learned her new role, there was a seed of resentment. A woman of her caliber being downgraded to a lowly babysitter? She had certainly felt slighted.

Now, Faith was the only one keeping her sane. All their late night talks, every look shared, each brief touch. These were the only moments that Antoinette felt truly tethered to reality.

It didn’t take long for feelings to bloom, growing alongside her inner beast. Feelings of light and hope abating the darkness and threatening to eradicate so many long-held beliefs. When Antoinette looked at Faith, she saw something she’d never seen before: a future.

This was both a source of happiness and contention for the Herald. It was a future that could never be. Antoinette had convinced herself Faith could never love someone like her, and that with Joseph’s supervision it wouldn’t be possible anyway.

A knock sounded against the door, snapping the woman out of her thoughts. She stood from her vanity, expecting to see one of her Chosen at the door.

Instead, Anne was greeted with the woman who’d been on her mind since she first laid eyes on her. Faith stood in the doorway, watching her expectantly. ‘Speak of the devil and she shall come…’ Was the first thought that came to the ginger. “Faith, it’s early.” She greeted her before glancing at the clock. It was 6am.

“I couldn’t go back to sleep, thought I’d come by!” The brunette bounced through the doorway, past Antoinette. Before the latter could respond, she continued, “I hope that’s okay!” And her brow furrowed, concerned she’d offended her friend.

Opening her mouth to say it wasn’t appropriate for her to be here, Anne found the words stuck in her throat. She found it too hard to say no to her. “Of course, maybe a little warning next time though.” She replied, a sigh escaping her.

Whenever Faith wasn’t around, Annie thought of her often; brooding on her feelings and mourning what could never be. Seeing the Siren in person was an entirely different matter. In person, Antoinette found herself almost paralyzed with fear. Fear that she’ll drive her way, but at the same time fear that she’ll bring her closer. She knew in her bones that Faith deserved better.

The older woman took a seat at her vanity once more, smoothing a hand over the glossy oak varnish. Faith made herself at home with ease, pulling up a chair from the corner of the room and taking a spot next to her. “Did you sleep well last night?” Faith smoothed her dress over her knees and made herself comfortable, watching Annie’s reflection in the mirror as she replied.

“Decently. And you?” Antoinette’s eyes flicked over to the brunette as she spoke, her conversation clipped. When the pair spoke of anything not regarding the Project, she grew increasingly uneasy. Anne had always been better at analyzing than at conversing, but talking with Faith always made her wish she was better. The herald grabbed a tube of her signature lipstick, twisting it up from the casing to reveal a scarlet red. The redhead could have sworn Faith was watching her lips as she applied her makeup, and the thought made her heart race.

“I didn’t sleep great, but I never do.” Came her matter-of-fact reply.

Ruby red lips bowing into a smile, Antoinette commented “You’re always bright-eyed and bushy tailed nonetheless.”

Faith returned her smile, saying “It comes with the job, I guess.” There was a beat of silence, and the woman looked almost pensive as she asked suddenly “Can I play with your hair?”

A blush immediately creeped up the ginger’s features, her eyes wide with surprise at the sudden request. “M-My hair?” She stuttered out, confused.

The shorter of the two stood, grasping a gilded brush from the vanity table. “Yes, your hair, silly.”

As Antoinette looked to her, Faith smiled hopefully. Again- she found herself unable to decline. “I suppose… if you wish.” It felt as though she were in a dream as she replied, her words leaving her without hesitation.

The siren stood behind Annie’s chair, her thin fingers wasting no time curling into her thick locks. She started at the tips of the curtain of hair, brushing out the few tangles that were there before advancing. Antoinette found herself tilting her head back, following the Siren’s touch with heavy-lidded eyes.

Brushing her long ginger tresses, Faith began to hum. It was an indiscernible melody, but a song so sweet that Anne felt all her worries lifted if only for a moment. Those few moments were like heaven, and Anne yearned to stay there like that forever.

After a minute more, the brunette set the brush back down and ran her fingers through the other’s hair. Her nimble touch was met with no tangles, and as she stepped back Faith commented quietly, “Your hair is really soft.”

The herald turned in her seat to gaze at the woman. “With all the money I pay on hair products, it better be.” Antoinette cracked the joke with a small smile. She was sure her face was almost as red as her lipstick at this point, betraying her cool demeanor. ‘I don’t think I’ve ever let anyone brush my hair before..’ She mused silently.

Again, Annie could have sworn she caught Faith’s gaze lingering on her lips; and she licked them at the tempting thoughts that sprang forth. “Would you.. do my lipstick?” Once more Anne was caught off guard by a question from the other.

Almost ignoring the question, Antoinette asked one of her own, “I thought you didn’t like makeup?”

A pink blush kissed Faith’s cheeks and she glanced away, replying “I like it on you..”

Heart pounding in her ears, the redhead stood and took the same tube of lipstick she’d held before. “Do you want the same color I’m wearing?” Antoinette looked unsure, as though Faith were about to burst out laughing and say she was only teasing. Being vulnerable was not her strong suit.

When Faith responded with a nod- Annie advanced and stopped just short of her. Standing so close to the brunette, she could smell both a fruity perfume and the lingering scent of Bliss flowers. Underneath the flowery scents was a hint of fresh earth, or recently watered soil, with this Antoinette could tell Faith had been working in the garden before coming over.

“I’ll have to be pretty close.” Anne put the disclaimer out there, giving her the chance to say no.

Faith searched her eyes for a moment, nodding silently.

In one move, the ginger uncapped and twisted the stick from its tube. With the red stick free, Antoinette felt her heart in her throat and knew she could wait no longer. The lipstick was gripped in her right, and her left hand reached up to gently cup Faith’s cheek. The younger woman was warm, her face soft beneath Annie’s touch. “Stay still…” She murmured.

Lips parting, Faith watched intently as she began applying the makeup. The stick pressed gently to her lips and glided smoothly over her cupid’s bow. Antoinette felt hypnotized by the motion of painting the other’s lips a red to match her own. The brunette was still under her touch- and Annie could feel Faith’s warm breath on her skin.

She finished in another moment- and capped the makeup once more. Faith was even more beautiful now, the red lipstick was striking against her pale skin. Breathless, Antoinette whispered “Perfect..” Moving only a few inches away, she admired her work.

Faith glanced in the mirror on the vanity and looked surprised, she turned back to Anne and gave her a bright smile. “Thank you Annie, I love it!”

That smile made Antoinette’s heart ache as she replied, “You’re more than welcome.”

The silence between them was thick and the pair were still only inches away from each other. Faith stared up into Anne’s eyes, surprising her yet again when she reached up and cradled Annie’s cheek in her hand. Despite her reservations- she melted into Faith’s touch. The shorter woman ran her thumb across Antoinette’s soft skin, and her lips parted once more as she leaned forward.

Heart beating out of her chest now, Antoinette’s eyes fluttered closed and she went to meet Faith there, to finally capture the Siren’s lips in a kiss more freeing than death. When their lips finally met, it was an epic release. They melded into one another; lips, teeth, and tongues clashing as all that inner hunger let itself loose. Faith tasted as sweet as Antoinette had always imagined, and she let out a quiet moan under her.

The two of them pulled back slowly, eyes both still closed as they savored that moment and the heat between them. “Faith, that was…” Anne started to speak, but the other placed a finger on her lips and silenced her.

“That was perfect.” Faith finished for her, a beautific smile overtaking her lips.

Antoinette couldn’t help but smile in response, lifting up a thumb to wipe one of the many smudges from the fresh lipstick around Faith’s mouth. “So much for doing your makeup.”

[icharchivist]

Perhaps random but I think it would have been neat if the kid survived and Siegfried had to figure out how to be the main parental figure to a newly orphaned child (and the kid having found family with all the Knights and chickadees)

oH i lOVe the idea actually????

ok actually this. this inspired me a lot so, under the cut some thoughts about it.

Like, especially with the guilt... I think the thing with SIEGFRIED event is that since everyone was dead, he couldn't let the guilt weight on him and he had to move on yaknow? but seeing that Gunther was alive brought all the guilt back.

so i feel like if Licht had survived, Siegfried probably would have to wrestle even more with his guilt. There's also the fact that it means that right after his parents got brutally murdered, Siegfried would have taken Licht on the battlefield to finish it up, protecting the kid... could even see perhaps putting him in Vane's care (since he was the one who didn't have a responsibility to fight and Siegfried already trusted him at that point) for the end of the battle.

Meaning, that the Knights would have probably set themselves as close to Licht as early as that point. Lancelot and Percival would ask questions to Siegfried, which would be painful to answer about, but all of them would probably immediately have involved themselves with Licht to lighten up the burden on their captain's shoulders.

And Siegfried would have done as much as possible for that kid. Making sure he grew up well. With also the constant crisis of "i don't know how to raise a CHILD i grew up in the WILDs", and at this point he wasn't close enough from the Knights to really just, turn to them.

But i could see especially the vice captains notice his turmoil even if Siegfried isn't ready to tell them he doesn't know what he's doing, and both would start to involve themselves, pick up the little details Siegfried let through showing he's in distress and would work with it.

i'm not making a tangente i refuse but the idea of Percival knowing that this kid basically had his mother bleed out next to him because of a rebel civil war he was next to?? great now he worked his way from triggered to dotting uncle thank you very much for your time

to make it fair with the other two: Lancelot would also try to help out as much as possible and honestly i feel like Vane would have been around much more because Lancelot would talk about Licht to him in their downtime and i can see Vane force his way in in the captain's office because he made cookies and he thinks the kid needs it. (and well honestly with the fact Vane's parents ALSO died in front of him, he'd probably also be extremely dotting on top of his usual "good with kids" attitude)

Lancelot is the only one i don't have a clear idea of what he'd do as a babysitter type tbh (he’d give the kid a blade and probably propose to train him i think, to let out his feelings, which... works but probably would have to happen slowly, like. in a few months.) but i think out of the 3 he'd probably be the one especially seeking to know Siegfried's feelings and how he's holding up.

And i think Siegfried would probably open up earlier to them, and learn from them as he can, while also seeking guidance with King Josef and reading up a lot of books about it.

I also think there will be a conversation with Josef about how Siegfried mentioned that he expected he'd die any day so he didn't use to build a future, right? I think this is the sort of things that it's something Siegfried would reflect on again with Josef having Licht around, because now it is becoming clear to Siegfried that his life isn't just his own to live and die for now, but that he can't afford to die and let this kid alone again.

There's also the fact that i think Siegfried lives in the castle? as Josef's bodyguard, it's more handy, it's not like he has a house from his before-knights time and i don't really see him getting a special house when he can carry his duty in the castle. So it would be also a question of adjusting for a life for Licht in the castle as well, one that i can see Josef accept. Otherwise, Siegfried could wonder if it wouldn't be better for the kid to grow up in an actual house and probably plan moving out (which could set up a lot of guilt for later when Josef died)

But also there's the question of leaving Licht alone. because in the trauma of watching his parents die in front of him, i think Licht would also have a period of coping that would be difficult to adjust for. Even with Siegfried's best attempt to learn how to raise a child, nothing is really preparing him as how to raise a child with trauma. And i think that would be more complicated while Siegfried would also grow extremely dotting and probably hyperalert to the kid's reactions.

And Mainly i feel like in the first few months it would be difficult to leave Licht completely alone, so Siegfried would delegate as many missions he can to the vice captain in the first few months in order to stay with Licht. Eventually when Licht would have got used to the knights Siegfried would trust, there will be a rotation of taking care of him.

But i also wonder if keeping the child in the barracks is a good idea, i think the child should avoid places where fighting happens a lot in the first few months at least, lest it triggers him again.

So there would be a delicate situation to deal with in that specific period.

Overall though while it would be clumsy, Siegfried would learn how to help as much as possible. I don't think Licht would especially think that Sieg could have done anything to stop the drama from happening, but also we don't know Licht's personality at all so it's free game. Licht could initially had held a grudge against Sieg that Sieg would have to work with as well while he's helping Licht heal... so i feel like the kid would be really non verbal and sometimes a bit rebellious against Sieg early on, as a coping mechanism, until the two of them manage to communicate more. On the long run, Licht would no longer have any grudge and come to accept Sieg as a father figure.

I think eventually i could see Licht grow to want to be a knight as well, like his father and his new father were. Perhaps also in the hopes to not have the sort of things that happened to his family happen again.

NOW the other problem however lies in the fact that there's the whole "Siegfried being framed for the murder of King Josef" incident where Siegfried had to disappear on the run.

imo it's implied Sieg didn't have the time to adjust around that, since he was found on top of the corpse and had to run away immediately.

and it raises the question of what would have happened with Licht in that meantime.

So also for starter i think it would have added guilt on Sieg's conscious to think that maybe, if he didn't have to focus as much on Licht, he could have been there for the King... I mean WE know that wouldn't have changed anything, but Sieg doesn't.

Then, there's the fact Sieg really would have difficulties coming back for Licht. I'm sure people would already have told the kid of his crime, or would watch the kid closely in the hope to catch Sieg. As a result, Siegfried probably could not approach Licht at all.

if he could have, would have he taken Licht along with him on his exile...? Mhmm. I think if Licht came to find him on his own, perhaps, with a lot of protest from Sieg about making the kid a criminal with him, if Licht manages to follow his tracks.

Else if not... I could see Licht staying in the castle for a while. Percival would be gone but Vane and Lancelot would still both visit the kid i think. Both would still be aching from Sieg's betrayal but they are both mature enough to not project it on the kid after all. But both also do believe in Sieg's guilt so i feel like it would be tricky.

Like i think Licht may hold on to thinking Sieg was framed, but it would be difficult to make it through Lancelot and Vane. Lancelot was extremely stubborn on this topic and i feel like Lancelot would avoid the topic at all cost and perhaps even leave the room when it's brought up. He wouldn't want to be rude to the kid, maybe he'd lie with a smile that perhaps so, but i feel like this is the one topic he would have been able to budge from, even with Licht insisting.

So Vane would be the one trying to ease the situation with Licht, listening to him, saying that he wants to believe Sieg didn't do that either... everything is against Sieg though and he can't ignore that. But he wants to believe he's wrong.

And i think Vane's position especially, as he's not sure, would be really helpful for Licht because else everyone else would probably try to drive in his mind that Sieg is the worst and all.

I could especially see Isabella usually ignoring the kid as something that's none of her concerns, until she starts to realize what a threat he can be by thinking Sieg is innocent and talking about it loudly, or what a tool he could be against Siegfried if she plays her cards right. Thus i could see her try to manipulate Licht, drill in his head that after all, he let his parents to die, why is that surprising that he'd kill the king?

It'd be a lot for the kid to deal with, but i'd like to think that even if he became unsure, he'd stand by Siegfried. If only because, as his Dad:tm: Sieg would have talked to him about how close he was to Josef so this wouldn't add up.

In those years growing, if apart, Licht would focus even more to learn how to fight in order to find Siegfried again and get his answers.

Since Gunther and Siegfried both were knights i'm sure he would be taken into the order without problem, in a pre-Lancelot-allowing-everyone-in era of the Order. As an apprentice of course because he's still young in that timeline, but he'd work it out.

by the time of Defender's Oath, i'd picture Licht, hearing about Sieg having been seen, starting to insist to Lancelot to be let to join the patrols with them. Lancelot would probably refuse... and I think Licht would have learnt very well from Siegfried for the little time they spent together to completely disobey that order and start to tally them. He'd get his answers no matter what.

I can see Defender's Oath happening the same way, without Licht meeting with Siegfried until the end of the story, or him meeting him halfway through and learning the truth from Sieg and being relaxed. He knew it! He always believed in him he knew it!

After those events though mhmmm i don't think Siefried would like to leave the kid alone again but he did have a problem where he felt he didn't belong in the country anymore, which is why he joined the crew. I think he would have a hard time just staying in the country and would probably ask Licht if he wants to come with him. And i think we can have it in a way where Licht wants to continue his training as a knight, but also come to join the crew and visit once in a while to stay with Siegfried.

When the chickadee's crew get formed, i think Licht would be about their age wouldn't he? I think he'll probably join this special group, and kind of be the senpai of them all since he has good relationships with the knights.

I could see him not saying outright that he's linked to Siegfried: probably reminders of the time Siegfried was a parriah and Licht would have not disclosed that he was his adoptive son to try to keep a low profile. The moment the kids learn it though? especially Arthur and Mordred? Man the starry eyes are real! they'd be asking about it all the time!

Overall growing up i feel like Licht would stay more with the order than with Siegfried, in the hope to grow up as a good knight, someone who can protect others and all of that, focusing more on himself than on his family

but he'd always be grateful and loving to Siegfried and Siegfried would still be a dotting father. I can see Sieg bringing back so many things to Licht from his travels, like he does to MC in his birthday lines, especially good luck charms. They'd be really right.

And if Gunther reappears like in the event, it would be under the assumption he believes Licht died that day. Licht probably wouldn't get involved with the story of that event until the moment Siegfried goes missing, in which he starts to insist with the knights that he wants to join the mission. But hearing his own father is alive and is responsible for all of this? Would make it so conflucting for the kid to deal with.

I could see Licht staying restless but going with the Chickadee on their missions to find the alma, and come back in time to see Gunther basically torture and mind control Siegfried into a beast. I think it would cement him on Siegfried's side no matter what Gunther would say, and when he appears on the battlefield, would probably confront Gunther himself.

and there i feel like the events would be a little different as Gunther have to face the fact not only his kid is alive, but he disapproves of his actions, and refuse to believe in the guilt Gunther puts on Siegfried.

but ultimately i think Gunther would still be stubborn on his end... Unless?

that's about where i'm running out of imagination here ahah but hooooly shit 2k words on all of this.

I think it'd be interesting to see Siegfried grow to be a dad and see how Licht would grow as well. I think there's a lot of room for it to happen smoothly.

that was fun to think about at least! thanks for the ask nonny :3c

[mybrothershands]

MBH/Dumpling Crossover

featuring @diddlesanddoodles lovely characters and edited by @thundering-sussurus

"No," Cairo said blatantly before Ka had a chance.

Farris eyed Cairo with a deadpan expression.

“Luckily, we ain’t so desperate a condition as to be needin’ yer services,” Farris replied, but there was a single vein along his temple that pulsed in repressed irritation. His eyes moved back up to Ka and he asked, “Ye always let that one talk fer ye?”

The man clamped his hand over Cairo's mouth. A lump had formed in Ka's throat, and he swallowed. "Ah... I, that is." He took a deep breath and steadied himself. Something about the man made him anxious, and he could not help but shuffle in place a bit. "No, I thank you very much for... for letting me work."

He glanced over at the men working the enormous pumpkins. It was so odd to see so many halfling giants in one place. They were a far cry from being human, and yet their weathered hands seemed small and delicate as they worked. Somehow they had cultivated larger foodstuffs, and Ka found himself a bit jealous. They did not look as lumbering or stupid as he must. There were so few foods that were to-scale for his kind, and yet these people seemed to have every luxury and more, even if some of the animals were a bit... unorthodox.

He quickly looked away, realizing he must have been staring. Ka's eyes moved to Nenani, still sitting comfortably in Farris's arm. It was then he realized this must be the man who watched her while she was sick. The giant cocked his head ever so slightly. Maybe there was more to this man.

Ka picked his head up, meeting the little giant's eyes for the first time. They were a piercing pale green, and he felt as if they might bore right through him. He cleared his throat, trying not to look away. "Is there anything I can do in the meantime? Anything at all. Decorations hung, moving tables..." he cringed before offering the next suggestion, thinking of what he might be asked to do to those poor birds, "...unloading the wagon?"

Farris did not miss the heavy reluctance in his voice.

“I know a tenderfoot when I see one. So stop lookin’ like a panicked scullery maid,” Farris admonished.

Scullery maid? Still, Ka nodded at the instructions, more than happy to listen in silence. "Yessir, thank you," he said when Farris was done, then eyed Avery. He was not sure how he felt about being called a beanpole, but, in any case, he seemed to have gotten over his shock well enough. Past that, he did not seem as hard as Farris. None of them did.

Cairo, however, was getting testy at constantly having his mouth shut by giant fingers. "You're gonna suffocate me," the human grumbled when he was finally free. His companion ignored him and listened for instructions.

“Avery and Bart will handle the birds. Yer with Saen on pumpkin duty. They need broken down, cut up, and fried so my bakers can get them into the pies and into the ovens for luncheon service.” He turned around to call out towards the black-haired cook sitting among the piles of pumpkins. “Avery. Come and start in on these birds. I want the first batches roastin’ within the hour.”

Avery stood, looking utterly relieved to be taken off pumpkin duty, and marched towards them. His step faltered, however, as he got his first real look at Ka. But he squared his shoulders and continued towards the cart, trying to play off his momentary hesitation.

“Fuckin’ hell,” he said, glancing him up and down as he fished two of the birds from the back of the cart. He held one under each of his burly arms. “Who’s the bean pole?”

“Ka’s helpin’ out today,” Farris replied dismissively. “Now shut yer gob and get to it. The spice mixture is in the green jar on the counter. Should be enough fer all of ‘em, so don’t be too heavy handed.” He turned towards Ka and jerked his head in a clear indication for him to follow. “We move fast down here, understand? Ye have a question? Ask it. And I ain’t no babysitter either. Only child down here is the lil’un.”

Farris led him over to the fire pit. A table had been placed nearby, and on it sat a few knives, a long handled wooden spoon, and two large crocks: one of butter and the other of honey. Farris eyed the knives and then said, “I’ll get a more size appropriate knife fer ye. In the meantime, sit down and Yale will be back with yer breakfast.”

"Thank you," Ka said as he approached the pit. He nodded politely to the one called Saen and noticed how the little giant's hair stuck up in the front. At first glance, he looked a bit puckish, though that was yet to be determined. Ka found and palmed the pumpkin Avery had left behind. There was a patch of the orange skin the skin already shaved off, he noted. Taking a moment to study it, Ka sat down near the table and took one of the small knives, despite Farris's offer.

After a few attempts to work with the little knife that felt like a kid's toy in his hand, he seemed to remember something. "Oh, I actually have... my own." He pulled on the strap of his satchel, then flipped the top open, producing a six-foot blade that was definitely not a kitchen knife. It was blunted and had several nicks in it, however, apparently unloved. He reached out, arm easily closing the distance, and held it into the flames for a moment to burn off any filth.

"I am Ka, by the way," he said, eyeing the man who looked about his age. "He told me your name, but... I'm afraid I've already forgotten."

Putting down his own knife, Saen extended a welcoming hand to Ka.

“I’m Saen,” replied the cook with a wide friendly smile. Ka at first reached out with his left hand to shake, but then realized his error and switched the pumpkin to his other hand and shook with his right. It did not feel too small, as he thought it might have. It was more like shaking a boy's hand, though calloused and firm.

"Saen," he repeated.

“And don’t mind Avery none," Sean continued. "He’s got all the tact of a mule and as much sense as a rusted penny.”

“I heard that!” Avery called as he came back up the steps from having delivered the first two birds to Bart.

“Maybe ye were meant to!” Saen retorted with a cheeky grin. Avery threw up a rude gesture as he went to the cart to collect two more birds. Saen just laughed and said, “Ye should be grateful this one came to rescue from prep work. Yer right shit at peeling.”

Yale appeared then at the top of the steps with the two meat pies, bundled up in a clean tea towel. He stopped to talk to Farris for a moment before continuing on towards Ka and Saen.

Nenani pulled at the kitchen master’s shirt to ask a question. “Fine. Just keep outta the way now and don’t be a pest, eh?” Farris warned before crouching down and releasing Nenani onto the ground.

“I won’t,” she promised and scampered along after Yale. Farris eyed the courtyard and the workers within before turning and taking the steps down into the kitchen.

Careful not to touch the still-hot blade, Ka made quick work of the gourd, peeling the skin away in long, thin ribbons. Both Yale and Saen watched with no small amount of awe at how Ka made such fast work of the gourd. With a wide grin, Saen turned to Yale. “Can we keep him?”

The pumpkin fit like a large potato in his hand, so the task really was not that difficult for him. Still, he bit back a smile and pretended to be too focused on his work to notice. Then two sets of feet approached, one big and one small, and he picked up his head. "Hello again," he greeted Yale. Finding Nenani on the ground, he thought it might be safe to release Cairo and set the pumpkin on the table. He double-tapped his chest as a warning before fishing the man out of his pocket.

Cairo grumbled a bit, but stretched as soon as his feet were on the grass. "Stiff as a board," he groaned, then reached his hand in his britches and scratched his rear.

Meanwhile, Nenani walked up to Cairo but stopped a few feet short. She bounced on her heels, a little bashful and said, “Hello.”

The man frowned, eyeing her with a squint. He looked the girl up and down, then squinted further. He turned his head and spit on the ground. "Can I help you?" he growled.

There weren’t many humans in the castle, and Nenani had wanted to ask the man questions about his life with Ka. But any questions she had died on her tongue as she stared down at the floor where Cairo had spit. She made a face and, looking back up, met his gaze with a disapproving frown. “That’s gross.”

He raised a brow. "So it is," Cairo said, a bit bored. He jerked his thumb back towards the kitchen where Farris had disappeared. "That one there, little man, he take care of you?"

She nodded. “Yeah. Everyone in the kitchen kind of does, but Farris is my actual guardian. See?” She reached into the top of her dress to pull out her marker. It was nothing but a simple leather strap with a struck metal medallion, and she held it up to him, showing off the side with Farris’s seal.

Cairo furrowed his brow and gave a simple grunt. "Collared you, then," he said. Still, it was rare he met one who did not fear the giants. Even Ka she had been kind to. Crossing his arms, he studied the piece, but did not move to touch. "Why?"

“It’s not a collar,” Nenani insisted with a mild glare. “It’s supposed to let everyone know I’m allowed to be here and to leave me alone. Because if you don’t have a marker, you might be trespassing. And not everyone here likes humans and might try to hurt you.”

The man regarded her for a moment. That did not bode well for him; then again, he had not planned to leave Ka's side, either. He thought for a moment longer, then spoke slowly. "We don't have anything like that," Cairo began, "but Ka does have a pocket that lets the regular folk know he's safe."

He had detested the idea of the marker at first, but on second thought, it might be quite nice to silently say that one was protected by a giant. A bit of a trophy in his mind. He then looked back and realized something else. "With protection comes..." He paused, trying to think of the correct word, and then realized what a stupid thought he had had. "I don't think it would be proper for me to wear one. It's my job to keep him safe, not the other way around."

She regarded him with confusion at first, looking back towards Ka and all his towering height and substantial bulk and then back at the much smaller Cairo. She smiled knowingly. “That’s what Jae says about Barnaby and Maevis. That Barnaby is more Maevis’s guardian than he is his.” She tucked her marker back inside her dress. “But don’t be worried about not having a marker of your own. Farris’s permission is good enough. No one will bother you while you’re here in the kitchens. I’ve only had one giant try and hurt me since I came here. I threw a pepperseed in his eye.”

Cairo raised his brow. "Good girl," he lauded. "And what did little man do when he found out?"

“Bart told Keral first,” she replied.

“What’s this about Keral?” Yale asked, having heard only the tail end of their conversation. He had moved to the fire pit and the large flat pan that had been placed atop a thin metal rack of sorts to hold it above the fire.

“I was telling him about Thrist trying to eat me that one time,” Nenani answered matter of factly.

Yale growled darkly at that. “Yeah, that swine-faced fucker ain’t gonna be tryin’ that again. He’s lucky Farris wasn’t around or he’d have had his arse fer curtains, and Keral would be down a scout.”

Cairo made an awkward snort before wiping his nose on his shirt. Eat her? What kind of hellish nightmare was this place?

"Do I put the pieces in there?" Ka asked, indicating the pan. He had finished skinning the pumpkin and rolled up his sleeves before uncorking the gourd. In truth, he had heard the conversation as well, but he was already squeamish at the idea and did not think he wanted to hear the rest of the tale.

"Down a scout?" Cairo asked, oblivious to Ka's discomfort. "You mean he ain't dead?"

“Aye, but first slice ‘em thin-like. They’ll cook faster that way,” Saen told Ka. He looked to Yale. “Lil’ man has a point though. Never did figure out how Keral managed to keep Thrist’s neck out of a noose.”

Yale shrugged, lips pinched into a frown. “I suppose bein’ the king’s favorite has it’s perks. So long he keeps him far away from the lass, I’m content with whatever hell trek Keral sent him on.”

Saen turned to Cairo. “Ye see, Thrist is a blue coat ranger. Ye might ‘a spotted one or two of ‘em here and abouts, but mostly they’re out in the provinces and the wilds, keepin’ an eye on things and reportin’ back to Keral who then reports to the King. He’s the captain of the Blue Rangers. Back when the Blood King was still alive, they were a bunch of murdering thugs. But since Keral took over, he’s been tryin’ to bring the order back to its original purpose.”

“He’s also Farris’s brother,” Nenani added.

"Brother," Ka muttered under his breath. There was a wafer-thin sneer on his face that faded as he shook his head. He hollowed out the pumpkin with a finger, holding the orange guts in his palm for a moment before holding them out. "You keep the seeds?" he spoke up in a kinder tone.

"And Farris would have wrent him limb from limb," Cairo said slowly, watching Yale's face as he said it.

“I’m sure he has his reasons, but I can’t say I wouldn’t have paid good coin to see that,” Yale replied. He sighed in resignation. “But Keral isn’t a bad sort, even if his men are pieces of walking rubbish. Probably the most cheerful man in the whole castle. Until ye make him mad and then he looks a lot more like Farris.”

“And his whiskey is top shelf. Got a bottle of it fer my nameday a few years back. But careful," Saen added. He gave Cairo a wink. "It’s got one hell of a kick.”

Ka adjusted his seat, still unsure what to do with the pumpkin guts in his hand. Finding no better place to put them, he tossed the glob into the fire and went to slicing up the pumpkin on the table.

Meanwhile, Cairo put a hand to his heart. "What! You take me for a drunkard? No, no, no no no," he waved both hands before himself. "Lost my uncle to the devil juice," he declared.

“Apologies,” Saen replied, shamefaced, and he raised his hands to placate the human. “Meant no offense. Sorry fer yer loss there, lad.”

Ka promptly knocked the man over with a knuckle. "Dirty liar."

"Hey!" he spat, brushing the dirt from his person as he got up.

The giant turned to meet Sean's eyes. "He likes mead. Had to carry him home half the time-- hey! Don't kick me! Old fart."

"You didn't let me finish," the human growled, glaring up at him. "I had him right where I wanted, too."

"Saen is nice, you shouldn't do that to him," Ka said plainly. This earned him another kick in the shin.

Saen recovered from his surprise quickly, looking to Yale with a haughty grin. “Ye hear that, Yale? I’m nice.”

Yale had grabbed up some of the sliced pumpkins and tossed them onto the pan with a knob of butter, and they began to sizzle. He waved the wooden spoon at his fellow and retorted, “Only ‘cause he’s never seen ye lose at the pebble toss. Or yer tantrum afterwards.”

“Ah, I don’t lose that often,” Saen replied, suddenly defensive.

“Well, the three shillings I won off ye last month say otherwise,” Yale replied as he turned his attention back to the frying pumpkin. He abruptly turned back to Saen as a memory suddenly resurfaced. “And then there was the time ye bit Kol.

“Oi. He stole my sausage,” Saen replied with a frown. “Fair punishment fer the crime.”

“Well, I think you’re nice,” Nenani said and Saen turned to smile at her.

“Why thank you,” he said.

“Even if you bite people,” she added with a grin.

Saen’s smile drooped and he held his arms out in exasperation. “It was one time, and I was drunk off my arse!”

Had Ka been wrong? Maybe his first impression had been right. They were not being rude, at least not to him, but it reminded him how little he knew. He was just an outsider, after all, so decided to keep his mouth shut for a little while. Since Yale had deemed his sliced pumpkin worthy of the frying pan, he regarded the small pile of gourds and wondered just how many pies they planned on making. He shrugged, taking another pumpkin and tossed end over end a up a couple times before setting to peeling again.

Cairo, however, had no such convictions. "You," he said, hammering a finger at Saen, "I like you." He crossed the lawn towards him, much to Ka's dismay. "So what's this about the king's whiskey," he paused, recollecting, "and what the ripe devil is a nameday, for that matter?"

Saen began slicing up more pumpkins but paused at Cairo’s question, regarding the human with a look of horror.

“Ye mean ye don’t have namedays where yer from?” Saen asked. “To celebrate ye bein’ a year older?”

The human squinted up at him. "It's a birth-day, you fool. Because it was the day you were...?" He shrugged. "Unless you hatched from an egg. I suppose you do look a bit like a lizard, then."

Saen slid his knife through the flesh of the pumpkin and paused, staring off into space as he realized the silly mistake he had made. “Oh. Birthdays...huh. Yeah, those.”

Off to the side, Nenani laughed. Saen sent a brief glare her way, but it left soon as it came and he moved on. “As fer the whiskey, it’s ain’t the king’s. Keral’s a bit famous fer his whiskey round here. He doles it out to those he deems worthy of it every once in a while. Farris may still have a bottle. Ask ‘im nice like and he may give ye a nip.”

“Best wait till end of day though,” Yale advised in good humor. “We ain’t bluffin’ about it havin’ a right kick. And we don’t need ya wanderin’ ‘round only fer ye to lose yer footin’ and fall arse end into the fire.”

Saen snickered. “Yeah, just ask Jae."

"Mmh," Cairo grumbled, waving his hand. "Never been one to ask nicely myself." He knocked twice on Saen's shin.

At the motion, Ka watched the man with round eyes and slowly shook his head back and forth. Still, Cairo did not seem to care, and repeated the motion.

Saen looked down curiously and titled his head. “May I be of assistance?”

By now, Ka was visibly shaking his head, openly nervous. The human either did not notice or simply ignored him. "Up, I said," Cairo laughed. He eyed the orange stains on his hand. "Wipe your grubby hands off first, mind you. I don't want to smell like rotten fruit in an hour."

“Oh. Alright then,” said the cook, pleasantly surprised. He sat his knife down and roughly wiped his hands onto his apron before bending down. There was a moment’s hesitation as Saen tried to think of the best way of picking the man up. Unlike Nenani, Cairo was an adult and therefore taller and with considerably more heft to him. In the end, he used the same technique he employed with the little girl, which was to shove his hands under the human’s arms and lift him up. Perhaps it was simply that he was more accustomed to the weight of a small human child, but Saen was a little taken aback by just how much heavier Cairo was. Though really he shouldn’t have been. He did his best to not let it show on his face as he lifted the man onto a clean spot on the table.

Cairo winced a bit as the giant pinched the old wound in his ribs. Once set down, he let out a puff of air and brushed himself off. "Boy you got little girly hands, don't you?"

"Cairo..." Ka warned, though this time did not bother to look up. His stomach rumbled again, and it was then he remembered the pies Yale had brought. He hurried to finish skinning the pumpkin.

Saen tucked his hands under his armpits and pouted. “...don’t have girly hands...”

From the fire pit, Yale started to laugh.

The human took a bow. "My apologies, Princess. Would you like me to kiss your ring?"

With a sudden devilish smirk, Saen grabbed a piece of sliced pumpkin and pushed his ring finger through it and then shoved it in Cairo’s face. “Go on then.”

Yale turned to Ka. “Sorry about that one. I’d say he’s normally not like this...but I’d be lying.”

The big man shrugged. "Don't apologise to me yet. Mine may do worse," he said as he chopped up the pumpkin on the table. Just as he said it, Cairo pricked up as though offended.

"What!" he growled, scrunching up his face at the slimy vegetable.

The human's mood seemed to change then, and he put on a mask of haughtiness. "Your grace, I was only jesting! I wouldn't dare touch thine ring. Tis too great an honor for a lowlife such as myself... but if you insist--" He then took not the ring finger, but Saen's middle finger, and bowed before it. Cairo then proceeded to stick his tongue out and lick the knuckle.

“Oi now!” Saen snapped loudly, pulling back his hand in disgust, but the force of the movement caused his pumpkin ring to fly off of his hand and up into the air. And when it came back down again, it landed on top of Ka’s head.

The little man roared with laughter, while his giant friend was left with a sticky bit of pumpkin in his hair. Ka sat there a moment, eyes distant and unmoving. At last he drew a deep breath, let it out slow, and deadpanned, "Your highness, I think you have lost your ring."

Nenani covered her mouth with her hands to stifle a giggle, looking back and forth between them. Saen drew a breath to make a retort when a bellow sounded from the archway.

“I’M HEARIN’ A LOT ‘A TALKIN’ AND NOT A LOT ‘A WORKIN!”

Both Saen and Yale, more than accustomed to Farris’s hollering, turned their focus to their work. Nenani, still growing use to the sheer volume her guardian voice could achieve, was startled badly and jumped.

Ka gasped and hunched his shoulders at the sound. "Sorry!" he squeaked, though he knew the man could not hear him. He took the pumpkin from his head and pitched it into the fire. It had been a fairly solid piece, but his hair was still sticky in places from the stuff. Cairo, he noticed, had not budged other than to turn in the direction of the voice and square his shoulders as if to fight.

The giant then caught sight of Nenani still pulling herself together. "Are you okay, little one?" Ka murmured.

She blinked up at him and then nodded with a small sheepish smile. “Yeah. I’m still getting used to how loud Farris gets sometimes.”

“Bit of a wonder we ain’t all deaf,” Yale murmured to Ka with a suppressed grin.

“Do you ever yell like that?” Nenani asked Ka. The question came more from a curiosity about Ka’s height. Farris was one of the taller giants she had met and Ka towered over him. If Ka were to get as angry, she wondered if he was that loud.

Ka glanced from Nenani to Yale and then back again. He shook his head as he reached for one of the pies. He hesitated, remembering Farris's call, and chose to grab another pumpkin instead. "I haven't raised my voice since I was a boy," he admitted. "People get nervous when I use my normal voice, so I try to be quiet."

"Y'ain't that bad," Cairo growled.

Yale gave Ka a strange look. “Nervous? Why would they be nervous? I agree with yer brother. That’s plain stupid. What’s other people’s business if yer voice is a tad loud?” Yale gave Ka an appraising look. “Fer as tall as ye are, ye don’t seem to care fer the attention.”

“I always thought it would be really inconvenient to be really tall,” Nenani mused. She had found a small rock on the ground and had picked it up and was idly passing it between her hands.

Saen laughed and replied, “We could say the same fer ya small folk being so short. Ye get winded just climbin’ the damn stairs.”

Ka shrugged at Yale's question, but found the words strengthened him a bit. Even if the man was a giant in his own respect, it felt good to hear some encouragement on the subject. "You are... much more confident than I," he decided.

The giant shook his head as he peeled. His voice got quiet and apprehensive. "I've scared people before. Humans, mostly. I don't like it." He forced a laugh. "Maybe I worry too much."

Cairo picked his teeth. Upon finding something, he pulled it out on his fingernail, then stuck it back in his mouth. "Sure do," he grumbled. He turned to Sean and curled his lip. "I don't have to climb your stairs, midgey boy."

Saen grinned and poked the human’s middle. “Maybe ye should start,” he quipped.

Near the pit, Yale was considering Ka with a little more of a critical eye. He took the sight of him in and his words and pieced more of the puzzle together. He understood easily the apprehension that came with interacting with humans, though he and the rest of the staff and Farris all made jokes and snarky remarks about popping them into stews and pies. It was all a balm against the festering wounds left behind by the war. It was easy to joke to and make light of it all. It was their morbid way to reconcile with the very real evils they had done. That Farris had done for them. To save them. But Yale held himself just as responsible as Farris. No matter what the kitchen master told him. He too remembered those faces...

He looked to Nenani then, who was watching them with an open curiosity. Innocent. She knew only bits and pieces, and even then, he wasn’t sure she knew anything of the whole truth. If she did, she never let on.

He took the slices of cooked pumpkin and dropped them into a shallow earthenware dish. Staring at the other slices still sizzling along the hot metal pan, he spoke to Ka.

“Didn’t use to be. Confident I mean,” Yale admitted to him. “When I was younger. Durin’ the war and all. Scared a lot of humans in my life. And I'm talkin' real terror. Wasn’t my choice to do it, but I did.”

Ka was silent for a moment, trying to think over Cairo's angry exchange with Saen. The humans here had been foolish enough to wage war with the giants? Behind that, what had they done to deserve their wrath? He shook his head and decided to ignore it. "I... haven't had to kill anyone, fortunately. There was that one, erm, accident with a dragon rider, but..." Ka shrugged as he rolled the pumpkin over in his palm, unsure how to finish his sentence.

He then glanced over to where Nenani stood and recalled how protective Yale had been of her. If so much had happened to him, how had he recovered so well? He himself had been a mess the time he had hurt Cairo. Then again... "I suppose there are bad humans just as there are bad giants," he finished.

Yale nodded with grim understanding at Ka’s words. There was no need for him to say anything else as his meaning was plain as well as his regret. It only served to confirm in Yale’s mind the kind of man he was and it brought forth a feeling of smug contentment. He wasn’t always as good a judge of character as Farris, but he wasn’t bad either. He felt pride in knowing his initial assessment of Ka had been right.