#both times he was knocked unconscious he immediately calls out for venom when he’s barely even awake

[ghostvibesonly]

my mental stability lies in the hands of a cockroach

[i-used-to-wear-the-fedora]

Venom Let There Be Carnage Alternate Ending

"What would Venom do?" Eddie asked himself as he tapped on the desk, scrolling through his computer for something to help him. "We're fucked." The reporter banged his head against the desk when there was a knock on the apartment door. Despite their fight, as Eddie got up he hoped that maybe it was Venom coming back.

"Yeah, what's u-" Eddie trailed off when he saw the woman at the door. Frances Barrison had a large grin on her face.

"Hey there Eddie." She stepped in the apartment as the man backed away. "You're invited to mine and Cletus' wedding."

"Do I get a choice in this?" Eddie asked as he scrambled for something to defend himself with.

"Nope." She opened her mouth and began to shriek.

~~

"C'mon Eddie. Pick up, pick up..." Anne sat in her fiance's minivan, trying the man's number again but still got nothing.

'He's not picking up. Typical.'

"Well you're right there." Anne said as she tried to dial again, Venom manifesting over her shoulder to look at the phone screen.

"I'm sorry but how are you so can about this? There's literally an alien inside you right now. You kissed Mrs. Chen so he could go inside you. Don't your think that's weird?" Dan said as he looked at both his fiance and the alien incredulously.

"We know it's weird, at this point we're just used to it."

"How do you get used to that?" Dan asked as he pulled the car into park in front of Eddie's apartment building. The trio getting out and moving inside. Dan reaching for the elevator button but one of Venom's tendrils extended out and slapped his hand away.

'No time need stairs.'

"Venom said we don't have time for the elevator."

"Well tell him that I have tender calves and am taking the stairs." Dan pressed the button again when more tendrils shot out and grabbed the doctor. "What the hell-?" The doctor didn't get to finish as he was thrown up the flights of stairs followed closely by Anne and Venom. "Hey! What the hell was that? ...ow..."

'Tell him I think him and his tender calves are full of shit.'

"Venom said this was easier."

'Liar.' Anne rolled her eyes at the symbiote and instead focused on finding Eddie's apartment. Wasn't hard considering the door was blown almost completely off.

"That can't be good." Dr. Dan commented as they stepped over the door.

'Thank you for the commentary Dr. Dan.'

"Hey he's doing his best." Anne defended her fiance. Facing the room she was greeted by a mess. Not unusual save the large claw marks along the wall and all the busted out windows. "Don't suppose you had anything to do with this?"

'No. Not that we can remember.' Venom peeked of the woman and called out. "Eddie, we're here and willing to take an apology for your stupidity-wait where's Sonny and Cher?"

"Sonny and Cher?" Dan asked as he looked around the small apartment.

"Our chickens."

"Why do you have chickens?" Anne asked as she took a deep breath. "Uh gross. What's that smell?"

"The answer to both of those questions are, you don't want to know."

"Hey!" Dan came towards them holding a card in his hand. "Found this...I don't think it's good." Venom had one of his tendrils lash out, grabbing the card from Dan's hand and holding it in front of his and Anne's face.

"It's...."

"...a wedding invitation."

~~

"Oh what a happy day! Aren't you excited Eddie? Me and Frances finally getting out promised wedding." Cletus danced in the chapel's aisle excitedly. His suit covered by a ridiculous fur coat as he hummed before taking a seat in the pews next to Eddie. Eddie glared at Cletus as he wrapped an arm around the man's shoulders. "Or you at a loss for words too?"

"I'm gagged you asshole." Came out a muffled grunt as he tried to pull away from the man. Looking across the aisle he saw Detective Mulligan still slumped over unconscious. Eddie had been in a lot of not good situations before. But trapped with a serial killer that had alien symbiote in his body and they both wanted to kill him? Probably near the top of the list.

"All we have to do is wait for our guest of honor to arrive and we'll have a full on family reunion! Carnage sure was excited when I mentioned both his daddies were gon be here."

Daddies? Eddie narrowed his eyes. He was barely able to take care of himself, the idea he had a part in making a baby was somehow more terrifying than the situation at hand.

"Don't worry about him baby." The woman who brought him here laughed as she pulled Cletus away and dipping him for a kiss. "All that matters right now is you and me."

"Don't think I don't know that darlin'." The serial killer returned the kiss and very openly shoved his tongue down her throat. Eddie watched in horror as he tried but to vomit in his mouth. Instead focusing on his hands that were bound in front of him and trying to save at them on a broken off chunk of wood from the pew.

He didn't get very far when the doors to the church slammed open. Both he and the psychotic couple took pause and turned to see Anne standing in there doorway, a very angry look on her face.

"Anne!" Eddie tried to call out excitedly. Cletus pulled away from his to be wife, eyebrow raised.

"And who exactly are you?" Cletus asked. In response Venom appeared, taking over the woman's body and snarling.

"You took our Eddie."

"Oh! Well I guess the show has begun!" Cletus backed away and allowed his body to fade as a large red body took over. He looked like Venom only taller and if Eddie was being frank, much, much more terrifying. It seemed Venom agreed. The symbiote backing away with a loud ,"Shit!"

"Hey there daddy." The symbiote spoke. Extending his arm and grabbing Eddie. Yanking the man in front of them. The other arm turning into a large blade against Eddie's throat. "Don't think we've got the chance to meet. I'm your son. And it's time to pay up."

~~

'Shit, shit, shit!'

Venom cursed as he retreated back into Anne's body. The woman stood there, trying to make the symbiote come back out.

"Venom, what the hell?"

'That's a red one!'

"I can see! What's so scary about that?"

'That means it combined with the blood of another species.'

"And....?"

'And it's a lot stronger than normal ones!'

"So you're saying we're in trouble."

'An understatement but yes. Very much so.'

"Can you come back out now?" Anne yelled as she scrambled back when the symbiote began to approach them. Eddie in his grip, looked almost as terrified as they were.

.

'No way, we'd definitely die.'

"We're definitely going to die of you don't come out!" Anne screamed as she dodged out of the way of a tendril. It narrowly missed her head as she began to crawl under the pews away from the creature.

'No you're definitely going to die. We'd probably be fine.'

Another tendril wrapped around Anne's ankle, starting to drag her back to the creature.

"Yeah but Eddie won't be!"

'Hmmmm....'

"If you come out I'll let you eat people!" Anne was now full out panicking as she clung to the leg of a church bench for dear life.

'Really?'

"Yes! Everyone! Just help me out!"

'Okay!' The bench finally gave way but Venom took over the woman's body. As they were pulled up to the creature, Venom jumped up and punched the creature with a hard uppercut. This surprised them enough to drop Eddie. The reporter quickly crawling out of the way as the red symbiote retaliated. Bringing the makeshift blade down on Venom as they just further their own shield. The two trading blows when the church bells started to ring loudly. Both the symbiote screeched in pain. Retreating into their hosts bodies.

This left Anne and Cletus staring at each other. Anne getting ready to run when she was grabbed from behind by the strong arms of a woman.

"Hey there blondie." The other woman giggled as Cletus approached them.

"Ah Frances darling, got me another wedding gift? You shouldn't have." The bells continued to toll when the man grabbed a stray plastic bag from the dirty floor and wrapping it around the woman's face. Anne choked and gasped while the couple just stared at her with glee. Darkness starting to creep into the woman's vision when there was a loud shout.

"Hey! Get the fuck away from my fiance!" The grip on Anne loosened allowing her to fall to the ground. She immediately took the bag off to see Dan holding an aerosol can in one hand and a lighter in the other. "Say hello to my little friends!"

By now the bell had stopped and everyone was clearly able to hear this terrible quip.

'He did not just say that.' Venom spoke in Anne's head.

"No...he did."

'I still don't get why you left us for him.'

Venom couldn't complain too much as he took over Anne's body again. Dan lit his makeshift flame thrower and backed the couple away. The red symbiote taking over Cletus' body again and growling.

"This isn't over." The creature hissed out, grabbing the woman and swinging out of the chapel she cackled, them disappearing into the night. But that wasn't what was important. Instead they rushed over to Eddie who was sprawled out on the floor.

"Eddie!" Venom rushed over to the man. Leaning down they ripped the gag out as he opened his eyes.

"Mmm...Venom? You actually came?" He sounded surprised. The symbiote sliced through the ropes and brought the man up in a hug. "Whoa there buddy....you must've really missed me."

"We're still angry at you."

"Yeah. I kind of figured."

"Is there anything you want to say?"

"I'm an idiot?"

"And?"

"You're not a parasite?"

"And...?"

"And....I'm sorry. I was a huge asshole and I could probably be a better host."

"Isn't there anything else you want to say to them?" They turned to see Dan who had been intently watching them from a distance.

"Anything else?" Eddie asked confused.

"Like I love you?" Venom asked and Eddie made a face before leaning in.

"Yeah. I guess. I love you sounds about right." Venom leaned down, lips locking with Eddie's as they left Anne's body and took over his.

"Aww..... that's sweet. I think." Dan spoke as Anne stepped back. "You okay?"

"Yeah. I think so. Honestly I'm glad they're finally working through their issues."

"Yeah....here's hoping they don't have anymore kids though." Dan laughed as he said this. "I mean, what are the odds?"

[ask-the-riders]

His Only Warning

Diamondback doesn't appreciate Othni touching anyone or anything that he cares for, and one day, he decides to confront him. Othni isn't receptive to any of his threats, so he makes sure to give Othni a warning that he's sure to remember for a very long time

((Slight warning; The beginning portion of this is a little suggestive, but I did my best to keep it as vague as possible. There's also some violence since Othni gets his ass kicked the two demons fight, too))

The demon donned a charming grin, idly stretching his arms and resting them along the backrest of the sofa. Val would be out for a while, but he wasn’t complaining; Not when he got to spend some time alone with his host’s adorable little date mate. The female skeleton cuddled up to him and he sighed softly, content as he wrapped an arm around her. Val had given him the green light to temporarily “borrow” his appearance, so right now, his date mate was under the impression that she was with her partner. 

She was oblivious to the fact that he was someone entirely different, and he intended to keep it that way.

Lifting a hand, he gently caught her jaw, prompting her to meet his gaze. Once her golden-orange eye lights met his false multicolored ones, he continued to offer her the same charming grin from before and murmured, “I’m happy that you chose to come see me again, Chimera. There really aren’t any words that could help me express how much I love being with you like this.” The female skeleton offered him a small, sheepish smile in return, her cheekbones flushing a soft shade of orange, “Of course, Val. I really love spending time with you, too.” Despite the way irritation fluttered in his chest at hearing her say his host’s name instead of his, Othni continued smiling, tilting his head as he looked at her. He brushed his thumb over her teeth and her blush darkened ever so slightly. Noticing this, his expression softened and he purred, “You’re beautiful, you know that? Truly the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met.” 

Her blush darkened again and she hummed, “I’m… I’m really happy you think so. You’re not so bad looking, yourself.” Still grinning, the demon’s cheeks flushed with a soft cyan blush, “Thanks, Gorgeous. I’m glad to hear that.” The pair gazed at each other for another moment before he slid his hand back along her jaw, still gently holding it as he closed the distance between them, capturing her in a kiss. As he expected, Chimera was quick to reciprocate, happily kissing him back. It wasn’t long before she found herself on his lap, one arm wound around his neck while her hand rested on his chest, weakly gripping his shirt. Othni began to purr softly, his hands absentmindedly caressing her thighs as he allowed himself to become drunk off of the kiss.

Chimera pulled away after a moment, her blush noticeably brighter as she pressed closer to him. Chuckling softly, he held her close, playfully arching a brow bone, “Well goodness me. It sure seems like you were missing me quite a bit, Beautiful.” Noting the way his accent thickened and gained a husky tone, Chimera shivered, smiling shyly and shrugging, “Yeah, I guess I was. Have you been missing me too, Handsome?” Already knowing what it usually meant when she referred to him as anything other than his host’s name, his purr grew louder and he smirked, “Of course. I’ve been missing you dearly.” Chimera shivered again, unconsciously squirming as her blush became even brighter than before. Just as he was preparing to kiss her again, the scent of something warm and musky that was reminiscent of cucumbers flooded his senses, and he stopped. Breathing in deeply and taking a moment to process the scent, he made a face; Ah. It would appear that they had a visitor.

The female skeleton tilted her head, her brow bones furrowing, “Val?… Is everything ok?” The demon made a sound of confirmation, smiling at her and lightly squeezing one of her thighs, “Everything’s fine, Gorgeous. I do believe our time together is coming to a close, though.” Also beginning to pick up the scent, Chimera let out a deep sigh, “So it would seem.” There was a knock on the front door and Chimera slid off of the demon’s lap, following his lead as he stood. He made his way to the door, the skeleton close behind him; Damn it. Everything was going so well, and if the snake-loving prick hadn’t shown up, they could be going even better.

Answering the door, Othni felt himself immediately become tense as the ever analytic green stare of the demon outside settled on him. Chimera cleared her false throat, drawing the other demon’s attention away from Othni as she spoke, “Do you need something, Soren?” Diamondback arched a brow, briefly considering the question before he hummed, “Yes, actually. I need you to head home now. You have company, and he’s becoming rather antsy to see you again.” She let out a deep sigh, “Of course he is. Cobalt, I’m assuming?” Diamondback shook his head, “Skink.” A grin slowly stretched across her face upon hearing her guest’s name and she looked up at Othni, “I’m sorry for the interruption and for leaving so suddenly… If you’d let me, I’d like to make it up to you tomorrow.” 

He nodded, gently taking one of her hands and raising it to his face, pressing a kiss to the back of it, “It’s alright, Chimera. If you’d like to see me again tomorrow, I’d love to have you.” Her cheekbones gained a soft orange blush again and she leaned up to steal a kiss from him, murmuring playfully, “Sweet… So it’s a date, then?” He made a sound of confirmation, “It’s a date.” He reluctantly released her hand and she looked up at Diamondback, “Are you heading back with me, Soren?” The demon in question offered her a tiny smile, “I’d like a few words with Val, first. If you’d like to start heading back, I’ll catch up with you.” Already well aware that his statement wasn’t up for debate, she nodded and chirped, “Ok! I’ll see you at the house then, I guess.” Diamondback tilted his head, “You’ll see me before you even get there, and that’s a promise.” 

Chimera made a sound in acknowledgment, smiling up at him again and lightly nudging him as she slipped out of the front door. Diamondback waited for her to be a full block away before he shifted his attention to the other demon, his grin fading as his voice took on a deadly serious tone, “You are to keep your disgusting mitts off of her, Othni. Tell me you understand that, so I may leave.” Othni was momentarily taken aback, shifting back to his normal form and looking down at Diamondback as if to challenge him; There might have been no more than a three inch height difference between them, but Othni was more than willing to take full advantage of it whenever the chance presented itself. Regarding Diamondback with clear indifference, he shrugged, “I’ll do whatever I want, Soren. You seem to have forgotten that I don’t take orders from the likes of you.” The snake demon felt one of his eyes twitch and he hissed, “Only my friends are allowed to call me that. You’re not my friend. Never have been, and never will be. Unless you’d like me to shove my foot up your ass, you’ll watch yourself. Surely you’re smart enough to know your place by now.” 

Othni let out an exaggerated sigh, rolling his eyes, “Fine, fine. Diamondback to your face, egotistical jackass to your back. How’s that sound?” Diamondback narrowed his eyes at the other demon, “As long as you keep your hands off of Chimera, then I don’t care what you call me behind my back.” The tiger demon pinched the bridge of his nose, “Oh, this again. If the thought of me touching her bothers you so much, then why don’t you just mind your own damn business?” Diamondback lashed out, a hand shooting forward to snag the collar of Othni’s shirt, and before Othni could process what was happening, he’d already found himself being thrown back into the house. He collided with a wall, letting out a startled yelp, and catching him off guard a second time, Diamondback appeared before him again. One hand latched onto Othni’s face, slamming his head back into the wall at full force and cracking both the drywall and the wood beneath it, earning another shocked cry. 

Opening his mouth and baring his fangs, he hissed, “I wonder… If I bit you and injected my venom, how long would it take for you to drop dead? How long would it take for you to shrivel up and rot?” Othni began to struggle, clawing at his arm, and Diamondback scoffed, slamming his head back into the wall again. A faint rattling sound began to echo around them, and as Diamondback’s fangs could be felt pressing into one of his arms the smallest bit, Othni let out a pathetic squeak, his eyes widening. The rattlesnake demon growled, and then proceeded to sink his teeth into the other’s arm. His eyes began to glow softly as he began to inject a small amount of venom, releasing Othni’s arm after a few seconds and stepping back away from him. He released his face as well, watching blankly as Othni cried out, his body twitching and his face becoming flushed. Diamondback watched as the other demon’s grayed skin began to darken and turn black around the bite, and he took note of the way he began to gasp for air, nearly gulping it down. 

Even as Othni toppled to the ground and began to dry-heave, he appeared unimpressed. Spitting out the tiny bit of blood that was in his mouth and wiping off his face, he lightly nudged Othni with his foot, gaining his attention before speaking, “I didn’t inject enough to kill you, but I did, however, inject enough to make you wish you were dead. It’ll hurt for a while and you’ll be paralyzed soon enough, but you’ll live. This is the only warning I’ll give you. Unless you want to die, then stay away from Chimera.” Othni wordlessly nodded, before his body lurched and he finally emptied the contents of his stomach onto the wood floor. Without any further conversation between them, Diamondback turned and began to head for the door; He had places to be, friends to visit with, and a mate to entertain. He didn’t want to linger here even a single second longer. 

[mldrgrl]

Careful

by: mldrgrl Rating: PG-13 (for some swears) Pairing: Mulder/Scully Summary: For all you fighting Anons that want Mulder and Scully to be in a fight for some reason.

She is so tired.  So, so tired.  Her feet ache.  Her head aches.  Her spine aches.  Her shoulders ache.  The back of her jaw aches from clenching her teeth.  On loan to Quantico, she’s been on her feet all day, lecturing, autopsying, lecturing some more, autopsying some more.  All she wants to do when she gets home is to pop something quick into the microwave, sink into a hot bath, and then sink into bed.  She tells Mulder all of this hours before she’s even finished with her day at Quantico, so when she walks in her door and finds him waiting for her, the irritability she already feels skyrockets to new levels.

“Dammit, Mulder,” she mutters, dropping her keys into the glass bowl on the table behind the couch.  He’s already by her side, taking her bag from her shoulder and trying to kiss her cheek, but she leans away.  “I told you I wasn’t up for-”

“I know,” he interrupts, nodding profusely.  “I know, I know, I know.  But, I’ve got a surprise for you.”

“I don’t want any surprises.”

“Go ahead and change.  Something casual.”

“I’m not going anywhere.”

“You’ll like it, I promise.”  He tries to take her hand and she yanks it back with a scowl.

“No,” she says, firmly.  “You never listen, Mulder.  You just never listen.”

“Of course I listen.”

“Do you?  I told you how badly I needed the night off less than three hours ago.”

“I know.  But-”

“No, buts!  I don’t want to hunt aliens with you and I don’t want to visit a haunted house or search for sea monsters or investigate any ridiculous fairy tales, myths or legends.  I don’t even want to hear the word ‘x-file’ tonight, I just want to be left alone.”

He stands in front of her, incredulous, his mouth opening and closing and Adam's apple bobbing like mad.  She’s about to tell him to get out.  To just go home and give her one night to be annoyed and exhausted and call her in the morning, but he sets his jaw and narrows his eyes like he has the audacity to be angry with her and she sets her own in response.  

“You never said you wanted to be alone,” he says.

“It was implied.”  She huffs and crosses her arms.

They stare each other down.  He pushes the sleeves of his sweater up to his elbows and then crosses his arms as well.  It’s her favorite sweater too, the dark green one that brings out the green in his eyes.  The one that’s so soft that she can’t help but rub her cheek into his chest when they lie together on his couch.  That stupid sweater makes her lick her lips unconsciously and want to give in to whatever scheme he has going on and that pisses her off even more.

“You always do this,” she says, shaking her head.  “Dammit, Mulder.”

“Do what?”

“This.  Show up where you’re not wanted.  Nag me into following you into places I don’t want to go.”

He purses his lips, but says nothing.  He nods his head and his gaze drifts away before he drops his arms and heads for the door.  She opens her mouth and then holds her breath and fights off the urge to tell him to stop, to call him back and apologize for something she doesn’t feel sorry for.

While she’s not quite sorry, she does feel bad.  She doesn’t want to fight with him, but she told him how tired she was.  She told him she just needed to relax tonight.  And still he showed up, with surprises no less, and left without even a goodbye or an apology.  She stops feeling bad immediately and instead just feels angry all over again.

She hastily yanks her blazer off, tosses it towards the couch, and untucks her shirt from her slacks.  She kicks her heels off, the ache in the soles of her feet even more prominent with every step she takes across the hardwood floor to the kitchen.  She grabs the first Lean Cuisine she spots in the freezer and rips the box open.  The cutlery rattles in the drawer when she yanks it open and she grabs a steak knife.  She stabs her aggression out into the plastic covering of the frozen chicken and rice meal, puncturing it far more than necessary before she finally drops the knife onto the counter with a clatter and throws the sad little meal into the microwave.

She’s startled when she hears the front door open and whirls around, her right hand moving automatically to her hip where her holster would be, if she’d worn one today.  But, it’s only Mulder, bogged down with a picnic basket that he looks like he’s struggling with.  He doesn’t look at her, simply hefts the basket up onto the table, rattling the contents inside, and then walks out again.

Frowning, Scully walks over to the basket and flips open the top.  There are plates and cutlery inside, a bottle of wine, glasses, take-out boxes with the familiar red lettering of her favorite Italian place.  She can smell garlic bread and her mouth waters.  Where did he get this picnic basket from?  Where did he go?

Scully grabs her shoes off the floor and opens her front door.  The elevator doors at the end of the hall are just closing and she catches a glimpse of her partner inside, which is strange considering she’s on the second floor and only a short flight up.  He never takes the elevator.  She hops and stumbles to get down the hall and put her shoes on at the same time.  The numbers on the elevator go up to six, the top floor.

“Come on,” she mumbles, smashing the call button with her thumb over and over again as she watches the numbers fall back to two.  When the elevator arrives, she rushes in before the doors fully open and then she smashes the number 6 until the doors close again and she paces in a circle as it ascends.

Directly to the right of the elevator is the door to the stairwell.  Next to it is a small silver plaque stamped with ROOF ACCESS.  The door is open and she peers inside, looking down towards the fifth floor and then up to the roof.  The outside door is also open.  She hurries up the stairs and spots Mulder near the edge of the roof, kneeling on the ground with his back to her.  She heads towards him, walking briskly.

“What the hell are you doing up here?” she asks.  There’s a folded blanket on one side of him and two pillows stacked on top of the pile.  She can’t tell what he’s kneeling in front of, but the closer she gets, she realizes he’s dismantling a telescope and nestling the pieces into foam inserts inside of a carrying case.

Mulder doesn’t respond or turn to look at her.  He finishes what he’s doing, closes the case he’s working with, and then gets to his feet.  He slaps dirt from his knees and stoops to gather the pillow and blankets before he walks away.

“Mulder?” she calls, following just a few steps behind.

He stops suddenly and she comes to a halt, nearly running into him.  He glares at her, or tries to, but there’s a wrinkle between his brows that betrays the set of his jaw.  He might look angry, but he’s not angry.  He’s hurt.

“What are we doing?” he asks her.

“What?”

“If I’m such an inconsiderate asshole, then what are we even doing?”

“I never said that.”

“It was implied.”  There’s venom in his tone as he throws her words back at her.

“Mulder, I never-”

“Why be with me?  Why lead me on?  Why stay?  Why?”

A wind kicks up and blows her hair into her face which she blows back and shakes her head once.  The wrinkle between his brows grows deeper and his eyes squint nearly shut.  She blinks at him, unable to answer such ridiculous questions.  He turns his back on her and walks away.

She’s slow to follow this time and takes the stairs all the way back down to her floor.  The blanket and pillows that had been tucked under Mulder’s arm are dropped in front of her door, but he’s nowhere to be found.  She kicks them inside ahead of her and calls his name, but there’s no reply.  She stands silently in the same place for a long time.

Finally, she steps out of her shoes again.  Her knees are shaking and she has to hold on to the table so she doesn’t fall.  It’s not from hunger or exhaustion either, it’s from fear.  She’s disturbed and frightened by her argument with Mulder.  This sort of thing was something they’d both feared in taking their relationship to the next level.  If it didn’t work, they would both lose everything.

Scully feels dizzy and her stomach rolls.  She heads to the bathroom and stops when she flips on the light.  There’s a large white towel folded over the lip of the bathtub and a blue plush robe folded nicely and arranged on the closed toilet seat.  A little brown paper bag rests on top of the collar of the robe with a handmade tag identifying it as lavender bath salts.  New candles are arranged along the windowsill and corner table next to the shower.

“Shit,” she whispers.

And it only gets worse when she goes into the bedroom.  More candles are on her dresser.  The comforter is already turned down.  Another towel is spread out in the middle of the bed and there’s a bottle of massage oil on one of the nightstands.  Just behind it, her portable CD player has been moved in and an Enya CD is at the ready.

A laugh bubbles up from Scully’s chest, which immediately turns into a sob.  She sits down at the edge of the bed and squeezes her eyes shut.  She allows herself a full minute to cry and then she wipes her cheeks and picks up her phone.  He doesn’t answer and she doesn’t have the courage to leave a message.

Instead, Scully trudges back to the living room, pushes her aching feet back into her heels as penance, grabs the picnic basket she can barely lift, and heads to her car.  In the time it takes to drive to Mulder’s apartment, she berates herself for her callousness and her carelessness.  When she starts feeling sorry for herself and reminds herself that he isn’t blameless, that he has a history of doing and saying the wrong things at the wrong times, it’s his voice she hears in his head also reminding herself that this wasn’t one of those times.

She knocks on his door and waits just a few beats before letting herself in.  He’s sprawled on his couch, clearly there was no intention of letting her in.  He doesn’t even move the arm bent over his eyes or ask who it is.  The only light is from the fishtank, bathing his chin and torso in an emerald hue.  She leaves the picnic basket and her shoes by the door.

“Mulder,” she says.

He doesn’t acknowledge her.  She picks up the hand resting limply on his abdomen and lifts his arm to slide into her spot at his side.  He doesn’t hold her like he usually does, letting his arm fall away from her and empty fingers that normally are full of hip or thigh dangle loosely above the floor.  She rubs her cheek against his chest and then her nose.  Little eskimo kisses to the point of his v-neck collar.

“I’m sorry,” she whispers.

He swallows and still he says nothing, still keeps his face hidden under his arm.  She keeps nuzzling him, making her way up his neck to his jaw.  She presses her mouth to his chin, just below his bottom lip and near the corner of his mouth, and gets no response.

“Do you want me to go?” she asks.

“I’d like to know why you even bothered,” he finally answers.

“I overreacted.  It was a rough day, but it’s no excuse.  I should have-”

“Not tonight.  At all.  Why did you bother at all.”

She props herself up against his chest and looks down at him.  She pulls his arm away from his face and he stares up at the ceiling.

“It’s still so new,” she says.  “I haven’t learned yet to determine when you’re being my partner and when you’re being my...boyfriend.”

His jaw tightens a little and without warning, he sits up.  She has to catch herself from falling off the couch in addition to his chest and sits up as well.  He bends over with his head in his hands and then rakes his fingers through his hair and blows his cheeks out.

“Mulder?”

“I’m not two different people.  I am who I am, Scully, and if you’ve never even liked the person I am, then why are you here?”

“Because despite the fact that you piss me off sometimes, you also managed to make me fall in love with you somewhere along the way.”

He grunts a little in response, but says nothing and doesn’t look at her.  She turns towards him and slides a little closer, putting one hand on his knee and the other on his shoulder.  She leans down and rests her chin on her own hand, putting her lips close to his ear to whisper to him.

“I love who you are, Mulder.  I love you for your passion and your dedication and your empathy and your brilliance, even for your stubbornness.  I love all of that about you.”

“Except I don’t listen and apparently I’ve forced you to follow me this whole time into places you never wanted to go.”

“You have to admit...Mulder, you have to admit, you’ve dragged me out into all sorts of-”

“I just thought it was part of the dance.”

“What dance?”

“The dance we do where you feign disinterest in whatever it is I present to you so you can temper my enthusiasm and be the yin to my yang.  You moan and grumble and then you show up.  If you never wanted to be there, why did you keep showing up?”

“You’re my partner.”

“Or your obligation.”

“No, never.  Well…”  She sighs a little.  “Maybe sometimes.”

“Sorry I’m such an asshole.”

“You’re not.”  She takes her hand off his knee and cups his face, bringing him closer so she can kiss his cheek.  “Mulder, you’re not.”

“Yeah, I am.  I’m the asshole that ruined your night.  I should’ve known you wanted to be alone.”

She sighs and rests her forehead against his temple as she strokes the side of his face.  “No.  No, Mulder, you listened to me bitch about the day and what you heard was that I needed to be taken care of.  It’s me that’s sorry I’m so bad at being taken care of.”

“You are pretty bad at it.”

She smiles and he tilts his head into her just a little.  Enough though, that she can tilt her own head and bring her mouth to his.  He’s pouting, but she feels his resolve weaken as she sips tiny kisses from his lips.

“Think you can just kiss me and make it all better?” he asks.

“Can’t I?”

“Yeah.”  He turns to her and wraps his arms around her to pull her into his lap.  She yelps a little in surprise and then brings her arms around his neck.  They stay there, forehead to forehead, chest to chest.

“I am sorry that I missed this up,” she says.

“So am I.”

“No.  Don’t give up on me, Mulder.  I love you for trying.”

“I would never give up on you, Scully.  Not ever.”

“Can I stay?”

“If you want.”

“I want,” she whispers, nodding against him.  “I want nothing more.”

The End

[tenmillionwhumperflies]

Cloudwalker Series Part 15

Avizon whump time- and you can finally meet Orrien (Ore-ree-en) properly. 

Warnings: The usual pet whump, with Avizon owning Dyan and Ihuka, but he’s more of a caretaker than a whumper now. There’s an arrow wound to the leg in this one, but that’s all the whump there is. 

Master-list Here

Approx WC: 1800

The weather only got worse as they travelled back home. There was hardly any space in the back of the cart but Avizon let Ihuka and Dyan stay there in the dry. The rain was cruel and cold and painful as the wind sped up the droplets. Ihuka had taken to hiding his face in his bandanna and Dyan his face in Ihuka’s chest. Avizon's fingers felt numb. He needed to find somewhere to shelter.

He grimaced, knowing the closest place was Orrien’s little farm was at the other side of the woods to his left. He hoped the man would be generous enough to offer them his barn until the rain stopped. Besides, he did have things to speak to him about, such as his growing conflict with Erix and the cloudwalker’s magic. He urged Secret on, hoping that the thunder and lightning would hold off. At least the trees provided some shelter, but the woodlands were thin.

Avizon glanced in the back, peering through a little hole in the wood to see Dyan and Ihuka were huddled close, keeping warm under their wings. He was glad he’d freed them instead of keeping them wrapped up and restrained. Avizon had told them to get their blankets that he’d bought. The two of them looked peaceful, warm. Dyan seemed to be asleep, but Ihuka was still awake.

He brought his attention back to the path ahead of him and sniffled. He was cold and the rain had soaked through most of his clothes, making him shiver. The wind was biting and loud. He urged Secret on, just a little bit faster. He could tell she liked this situation no more than he did. She made to go right at a fork in the road but Avizon steered her left. “Change of plan, lass,” he mumbled.

It would be another hour until they got to Orrien’s home, but it didn’t take him long to start shivering, for his teeth to start chattering now that the night was setting in well and true. He could barely hold on to the reins. He tried to hide his hands in his soaked sleeves.

Avizon paused, hearing rustling in the shrubbery despite the howling of wind. He turned his head to compensate for his blind eye. He couldn’t help but feel ill at ease. “Ihuka, Dyan, wake up,” he ordered. He heard groans and grumbles. “Are we there?” Dyan yawned. “No, we’re not. Ihuka, I want you at the back of the cart, watch our back.” Dyan translated and Ihuka obeyed, but he didn’t take his blanket off.

“Dyan, at the front. I want you close. Watch my left side- that way. Keep an eye out for any people. Tell me immediately, alright?” “Yes, master.” Dyan climbed out of the cart and ran to the side, heaving himself up on the seat beside him.

Avizon tried to keep his focus as the weather got to him. He blew on his hands. “Would you like me to use my wings and keep you dry, master?” Dyan asked quietly. “No, little bird, I won’t be able to see… but thank you. Keep yourself warm.”

The journey was overpowered by silence, but it wasn’t to last. Dyan yelled out a warning, but Avizon wasn’t able to see the man on his side with a bow. He didn’t see him aim for him or fire, but he heard the swoosh, and felt the heavy jab in his leg. He cried out in alarm, the searing pain quickly becoming noticeable. He groaned and hurled an orb of power in that direction, unlike the man, he didn’t miss. He heard half of a scream, gurgling, then silence.

More men appeared, all ready to kill him. “Heads down!” he bellowed to his birds, flicking the reins, bringing Secret into a canter. The cart shook and rattled badly. Avizon summoned blue fire to his hands and sent it hurtling at anyone he could see. The men soon scarpered and disappeared from sight as Secret tore up the roads.

Avizon groaned, grabbing the reins again. “Steady, girl steady,” he called, easing her back into a trot. She breathed through flaring nostrils and grunted with fear.

“Easy girl.” He winced as the pain in his leg became all the more clear. Dyan stared at his leg, looking in curious horror at the arrow sticking out of his thigh. Avizon bit down on his lip to stay silent as he snapped the wooden shaft. It still drew a curse from him.

“D.Dyan, hold the reins,” he panted. “I’ll tell you what to do as we need. J.just hold them for now. Ihuka? Ihuka, are you alright?” Dyan translated to be sure, and he heaved a sigh of relief when he whimpered he was fine.

“He’s okay, just startled… Master, a.are you alright?”

“We just need to get to Orrien,” he ground out, pushing down on his wound despite how it made him scream. He struggled to suppress a whimper as he sat still, rushing down air. It burned. “Gently pull on the left rein, just to g.guide her head… that’s it,” he grimaced as Secret turned. Dyan screwed up his face in concentration, but it was clear that he too was getting cold, even with his coat.

Things were getting blurry. Avizon wasn’t sure how much longer he could stay awake. When he suddenly found it hard to move his leg, he knew what was wrong. “Venom… blast it all!” He reached down for his satchel at his feet, but his arms were becoming infected with the same heaviness. He fumbled with the cork and gulped down what he could before the bottle fell out of his hands and landed on the floor. He hoped it was enough antidote to keep him alive. Dyan picked it up and offered him it back, but it was empty now.

“‘t’s alright… just drive.”

He struggled to stay quiet as the cart shook him. The cold and the pain and paralysis were a cruel combination. He couldn’t even shiver to keep warm. Dyan kept sending him worried glances, but he had a job to do and he was determined to do it well.

Finally, the little farm came into view. Avizon swallowed thickly, reaching for the reins to bring Secret to a stop in front of it. The paralysis was wearing off, but his legs were still plagued with it.

“H.help me to the door,” he managed.

Dyan told Ihuka and the two of them helped him down. He couldn’t bite back a cry of pain as he reached the floor. His legs buckled and he dropped this knees. The birds strained to heave him back up. It wasn’t easy when he was taller than them by about a foot.

The door opened before Avizon could knock. He must have been a pitiful sight, soaked from the rain, shaking and shivering, weak and limp, draped over the two cloudwalkers so he could even stay upright. Blood slipped down his leg freely.

Orrien was quiet for a moment, taking in the sight of him. He let the magic fade out of his hand, knowing he was not a threat. “Master,” Avizon croaked. “C.could I take refuge in your barn tonight? I… Things didn’t quite go according to plan.”

“Remind me to be angry at you later once I’ve fixed whatever mess you’ve ended up in this time,” Orrien grumbled.

“I.Ihuka… Dyan… b.best behaviour. Do as Orrien tells you. No shaking your wings inside.” Dyan translated everything he said, and it seemed like he said more. “Take the horse into the barn- and please don’t eat any of my livestock,” Orrien instructed, grunting as he took Avizon from them. Avizon had to hold his breath to silence a scream.

The birds were uncertain, but did as they were asked. Dyan reached up and took Secret by the head collar to lead her around. “There’ll be a young lad around the back, his name is Blue. He will look after the horse and both of you. Tell him I sent you.”

“Yes, sir,” Dyan answered shyly. Ihuka nudged Avizon’s arm with his head with a soft whimper. Avizon patted his head. “Good bird… go and rest.” It was clear he didn’t want to go but he reluctantly followed Dyan.

Avizon groaned and let himself relax once they were gone. He let his pain show just that little bit more. Orrien struggled to keep him up, to heave him into his chair by the fire. He eased him out of his soaking coat and shirt. “I’ll get you some blankets. Pants off if you can, lad, I’ll need to see how bad it is.”

Avizon nodded weakly and obeyed. Orrien soon returned with a few blankets and wrapped them around him.

“I’m sorry,” Avizon mumbled. “I realise I’m likely unwelcome.” “You have no reason to be unwelcome. You pushed yourself away,” Orrien said, his face heavy with concern. “You are always welcome in my home.”

Avizon looked at his face as he inspected the wound on his leg with a furrowed brow. Life and age hadn’t treated him as well as they could have. He had deep wrinkles around his blue eyes. The scar on his right eye had faded into more of a white line, but the golden yellow tattoo on his forehead still looked as bright as ever. Magical tattoos tended to keep their radiant glow. The enchanted metal dragon ear piece stared down intently at Avizon, half-covered by Orrien’s shoulder-length blondish grey hair. It looked up and stuck it’s tongue out at him before looking back down at his leg.

Orrien was sprouting a beard, which twitched and moved as he grimaced at the sight of the injury. “What happened?” he asked, his voice deep and rumbling. “Ambush… We were on our way here to get out of the weather, things went wrong. I got shot. I think it had cloudwalker venom on. I’ve taken an antidote, but-” “You’ve made an antidote?” Orrien asked, raising an eyebrow. “Aye… L.look after those two. They’re good birds...”

“I will. Now you need to rest. I can take care of everything. Get comfortable, I’ll send you to sleep.” “N.no…” Avizon groaned. “They could come back-” “Aye, and your limp isn’t going to scare them away. I can deal with them.”

Avizon pursed his lips, “Still…”

Orrien put his hand on Avizon’s feverish brow. “I’ve been fighting since before you were born. I can handle a few more buffoons. Sleep.”

The spell worked immediately, throwing Avizon into unconsciousness before he could stop it.

[alolowrites]

On The Run

Summary: Staying in one place was never a good idea. It was risky and only caused more problems for you. However, an exception was made for Minato—a city under Shinsou’s watch.  

Author’s Note: Hello everyone! I’m happy to share my sixth story for @bnhabookclub​‘s Hero Camp Bingo event. This story is by far the longest fic I’ve ever wrote. The bingo prompt I used was “Pro Hero AU”. This story is also part of the club’s Weekly SFW Prompt and the prompt used was: “I think I’m in love with you, and that terrifies me.” 

This story wiped me out. I think it’s because of the sheer length and the action scenes. However, I am very happy with this story. Hopefully you all enjoy it as well! 

Please note that the reader is a villain and there is an itty-bit of angst...

Word Count: 4.6K+

“Well, well, well…”

You were slammed against the brick wall, letting out a painful groan. Unfortunately, it was drowned out by the rowdy bar filled with boisterous drunk men. A large shadow loomed over your hunched figure, the raggedy boots stomping closer to you. One hand seized your jaw and forcibly made you look up.

“If it ain’t Vanisher herself,” he sneered, his mouth reeking of low-quality vodka. You almost hurled when his nasty breath hit your nose. The wretched stench of someone’s vomit flowing from the dumpster smelled better. Two of his buddies stayed behind him, their snickers echoing down the dirty alleyway. “You’re a pain in the ass to find, y’know that?”

“What the hell do you want, Takeshi?”

“Don’t play dumb with me!” His grip tightened, and you yelped; that’s going to leave a bruise. Takeshi’s face inched closer as you glared at the disgusting henchman. “Our boss wants all the money you stole from him. Down to the very last yen.”

“Aw! Is the old fella still holding a grudge on me?” You clicked your tongue like a disapproving parent. A playful glint flashed across your eyes. “I won that money fair and square. Not my fault he’s a sore loser.”

“You swindled him with those rigged poker cards!”

“A gal’s gotta survive in this world, my friend,” your voice was sickly sweet, but also dangerously cold. Takeshi growled as you cackled at his annoyed expression. “If that means playing a little dirty with suckers like him, then so be it. Now, if we’re done here—”

The air escaped from Takeshi’s lungs when your right knee landed a harsh blow in his groin. Without stopping, you snatched the arm holding you and twisted it with brute force; he howled, not seeing the swift kick that knocked him off balance. You needed to flee quick. As you dodged the other goons’ attacks, you immediately had a place in mind and extended your palm.

A golden circle started opening in the distance. Your legs were on fire like Ingenium, and your lips nearly tasted sweet freedom when a long, slimy tongue smacked your neck. You collapsed on the pavement, the bright circle fizzling away. An unsettling feeling brewed inside your head when you couldn’t move at all. Every muscle was numb despite your brain sending SOS signals to get up.

Fuck! I forgot about his paralyzing quirk.

Heavy footsteps shook the ground. You were rolled onto your back and panicked when Takeshi’s wild eyes shamelessly raked along your body. He dared to plop himself down, his sandbag like weight crushing you with no remorse. His chapped mouth stopped near your ear and snarled, “You ain’t goin’ nowhere. I know the boss wants ya’, but he’s just gonna have to wait until I have my way with you first.”

“Aye yo, Takeshi, guess what!”

“What?” He snapped his neck over his shoulder, annoyed at being interrupted. A dazed sensation overcame him, and he stayed motionless. You cursed to yourself when you realized who was responsible for this—Shinsou Hitoshi, aka Persona Hero: Mindjack.

“Get off her and walk toward me.”

Yup, it was definitely him. You tried wiggling your fingers or toes, but to no avail; you were deadweight and glared at the dark sky. If there was anything you hated more in the world, it was being a hopeless damsel in distress. A few minutes passed until you hear Shinsou’s light footsteps approach your pitiful state.

“Well, isn’t this a sight,” he snorted at your heated face.

“If I could flip you off, I would.”

“This is the thanks I get for saving your ass?” You averted your eyes, begrudgingly waving the imaginary white flag. Shinsou bit back a grin as he kneeled beside you, checking for any injuries. “But seriously, are you okay?”

“Why do you care?”

“I'm a hero. I make sure people are not hurt,” Shinsou answered sincerely. His hand lingered above your shoulder as violet eyes stared at you. The corner of his lips curved ever so slightly when he said, “Even if the person happens to be a villain like yourself, Vanisher.”

“Well, I’m fine. Just paralyzed.” Your muscles were still frozen. Shinsou hummed as he glanced at the three men sitting obediently by the dumpster. Their hands and feet were tied, Takeshi being the only one still in a daze. The other two guys were knocked out thanks to Shinsou’s precise attacks. You let out a relenting sigh, “Thanks for…saving me. Damn pig hit a new low for pulling that shit on me.”

“He’s a coward.” You were taken aback by the venom in Shinsou’s voice. Coincidently, your fingers and toes twitched, a small sign that you were regaining control again. “It seems that he’s done it before. I’ll make sure assholes like him are off the streets permanently.”

“For once, I actually support your heroic actions,” you grinned, your entire body waking up from the not-so-peaceful slumber. Pushing yourself off the floor, you rubbed the back of your neck and felt the tiny lump where Takeshi hit you. Shinsou offered his hand, and you suspiciously glanced at him. The underground hero gave you an exasperated look. Rolling your eyes, you grabbed it and Shinsou helped you stand up.

He turned away and reached for his phone. “I’m calling the police. You should get out of here.”

“Wait,” you stepped forward, a bit confused, “You’re not turning me in?”

“You were being attacked and used self-defense,” Shinsou shrugged as he made the call. A minute later, he hung up and went to tighten the knots on the ropes. You were skeptical, wondering if this was all a trap. When you didn’t leave, Shinsou sighed and peeked over his scarf. “Look, you had a rough night. Just this once, I’m giving you a pass. Don’t be an idiot by staying here until the cops come.”

“Hmph, fine.” You opened a portal behind you. The golden sparks lit up the dreary alleyway, and one leg stepped on the other side. You paused, staring at Shinsou and murmured, “I owe you one.”

Shinsou nodded.

You disappeared just as the police sirens rang down the streets.

༛༛ ༛ ༛༺༻༛ ༛ ༛༛

Staying in one place was never a good idea. It was risky and only caused more problems for you based on past experiences. From a young age, you’ve learned to fend for yourself while on the streets. Sure it was exhausting looking over your shoulders, feet ready to bounce if the scene got too chaotic. But you sucked it up if it meant avoiding jail or facing Mr. Death himself.

Neither of them was in your deck of cards called life. And your life was undoubtedly precious, so why waste it away in a rotten jail cell or cramped coffin?

You arrived at Minato City roughly eight months ago, and it was the longest time you ever stayed in one spot. Usually, you dipped by the second month, but that wasn’t the case for Minato—a city under Shinsou’s watch.

The first time you crossed paths with him, it was ironically in a back alley nestled in between two rundown buildings. You preyed on a rich salaryman with an unmistakable narcissistic attitude; he was an easy target, and it didn’t take long to get him stumbling over his feet. After knocking him out cold, you rummaged through his belongings until you sensed a shadow lurking in the darkness.  

Your eyes landed on the stranger’s bizarre getup. An air of mystery surrounded him thanks to his unruly scarf and metal mouth-mask. Stranger danger indeed, you mused while taking a step back; your survival instincts urged you to leave. The man quirked an eyebrow when he asked a question, and you foolishly answered it.

You walked forward despite your inner protests; it was as if you were under some weird spell—his quirk perhaps?—and you couldn’t break free. The stranger placed handcuffs on you and checked on the unconscious man. All your escape plans were useless until a miracle happened: an ashtray fell on your head. The glass shattered on the floor, and you let out an annoyed groan; you realized the mysterious spell was broken. Not wasting another second, you summoned a portal behind you.

“Neat trick, but I’m not a big fan of being someone else’s puppet!”

You disappeared before his scarf could capture you. The next day, you did some research on the guy and learned he was a pro hero named Mindjack, his actual name Shinsou Hitoshi. You blamed yourself for not brushing up on this information before arriving at Minato City, a rookie mistake indeed. He was trouble, and you barely escaped his grasp last night, yet you were intrigued by him. His quirk was unique, almost villain-like if he wasn’t such a goodie-two-shoes.  

Since then, you had some run-ins with said hero, whether intentional or not.    

At first, you kept your guard up around him. Shinsou taunted you to speak, but you hilariously whipped out a mini dry erase board in return; it amused him. He heard about you, an infamous thief named Vanisher who frequents the underground scene.

After two months of playing the cat-and-mouse game, you settled on befriending him; he grew on you with his deadpanned statements. One night you found Shinsou crouched on the roof’s edge, yawning as if he hadn’t slept in days. You smacked an energy bar on his head and shoved a black coffee in his hand with a perky smile. Shinsou was thrown off by your gesture, but threw a curt “thanks” your way.

It was an odd dynamic brewing between you both. Some nights Shinsou shared a quick bite with you, and other nights he tried, for the billionth time, to rein you in. For Shinsou, you weren’t a huge threat in his city, just an annoying thorn. He disapproved of your nightly shenanigans with a dry, “Stop stealing stuff from unconscious men.”

“Oh please, he’ll survive without his precious Rolex watch!”

You enjoyed the friendly banter, and you knew he did to by the mischievous glint in his eyes. Even his tone sounded playful, betraying the serious facade during his patrols. Of course, you trod the tightrope carefully with the lone hero. A small slip and you’ll fall. However, it was a risk you took every night for the last eight months. Besides, Shinsou was extraordinarily handsome, and the whole dark aura vibe suited him well.

He was the first reason why you decided to prolong your short stay in Minato City. The second reason was well—

“Hmmm,” you savored the gin cocktail, soaking in all the information with deep thought. The room was cramped and had poor ventilation. Your nose inhaled the musty odor lingering in the air, the stench making you silently groan. A single lightbulb hung above the round table and barely illuminated the man’s wrinkled face, partially hiding in the shadows.

“So…what do you say?” Mamba’s guttural voice broke the silence. Two grimy nails tapped the table as he watched your throat bob. You caught his tongue hungrily licking his lips. “Think you’re up for it?”

“A heist, huh?” You lowered your drink, and casually swung your arm behind the chair. “You sure your guys scoped out the place?”

“Down to the smallest detail.”

“Hmm…I want forty-five percent of the cut.”

He smirked, “As you wish. After all, you are valuable to us.”

“Well, don’t you know how to charm a lady,” you teased, crossing a leg over the other. “I’m in. I’ve been meaning to spruce up my dull routine. Conning rich suckers might be fun and all, but this heist sounds ten times better.”  

Mamba signaled for his drink. Your glass cups clinked as the deal was officially closed. He shifted in his seat and drawled, “A pleasure having you on board, Vanisher. You’ll be in good hands with my men. I give you my word.”

“I’m sure I will.”

༛༛ ༛ ༛༺༻༛ ༛ ༛༛

“Ready to go?” Voltage gruffed from behind you. He was an enormous man who stood as tall as an electric tower. Tiny sparks bounced in his yellow eyes. The stoic man was the driver, and he lead you to the back of the van parked outside.

The plan was simple. Voltage will drive the van to an alley that was close enough to the bank. Someone from squad B would shut off the entire security system to avoid alerting the police. You will then summon a portal that connects to the vault. From there, two men will slip through and break the metal door. They’ll pack approximately 100 million yen in large duffle bags, throwing them back through the portal.

It sounded easy enough…after all, that was the plan for today.

“Really?” You huffed, annoyed at the henchman man-spreading on your right. His twin sat across from both of you with an unreadable expression. Voltage and his partner, Benzo, ignored your complaints. Casting a glare at your ‘teammate,’ you snapped your head to focus on the road. That’s when you noticed something strange.

Benzo discreetly pushed aside his coat to take out his gun. It was common knowledge for criminals like Mamba’s soldiers to arm themselves despite having quirks. However, why did Benzo have a tight grip on his weapon now? You narrowed your eyes when Voltage took a left turn instead of right, fueling your suspicions even more.

“The GPS broken, Voltage?”

Silence.

And then…an attack.

You dodged a crystal dagger that came from your right. Only his hand was crystallized and you twisted his arm, the henchman howling like an injured wolf. His twin lunged forward with the speed of a bullet train. Your back slammed against the van at the guy’s sheer force. With wide eyes, you felt his vice-like grip crush your throat. The air was being sucked right our your lungs, and your fingers frantically scratched his skin.

Not giving up, you delivered three harsh blows to his groin. He stumbled back, but refused to let go of you. A growl escaped your lips when you kicked his ribs; with his grip gone, you charged at him, striking a pressure point by his neck—he was out like a light.

Out of the blue, Man-spreader caught you in a chokehold. He was noticeably weaker due to the injured right arm, and you took advantage of this. Benzo, however, shifted his body in his seat while snarling, “Keep her still! I’m gonna knock her out with this sleeping bullet! Viper wants her alive!”

Viper?! Damn it!

You elbowed man-spreader’s chest without stopping; an intense head-butt was your final move. Hearing the gun click, you swiftly used the unconscious stone block as your human shield to avoid the bullet. Tossing the guy toward the front, you activated your portal and rolled down the street. There was no time to think of a safe place, just that you needed to get out that hellish van.

A few scratches marked your cheek. The sound of wheels screeching against the concrete forced you to leap on your feet and run. You didn’t have enough energy to summon another portal, the fight draining almost everything in your system. But you still had some power left, and you’ll use it as your last resort.

For now, you settled on running the hell out of the van’s sight. Voltage and Benzo were hunters who wouldn’t rest until you’re captured. But there was no way in hell you were facing Viper again. Damn old geezer was still holding onto a deep grudge with that poker game. You gritted your teeth, the metallic taste of blood overwhelming your mouth. This might be a problem you couldn’t easily vanish away from…but it didn’t hurt to try.

All the buildings blurred as your feet pounded against the pavement. You skidded around the corner, the van right on your tail. A shot rang from a distance and you hissed; the bullet grazed your thigh. When you glanced up, your mouth dropped as a blue truck pulled out into the street.

Your only warning was: “Get out of the way!”

The driver, plus his companions, scurried like frighten mice when they noticed the white van dashing down the road. You slipped underneath the vehicle, but wasted no time staying on the floor. A loud crash roared from behind. You never looked back and arrived at a busy pedestrian street, bulldozing through the crowd.

Where’s a good place to hide?!

A piercing shriek ruined the city’s peaceful scenery. You peeked over your shoulder and screamed when an electric whip hit the lamp-post. The sudden attack made you lose your footing. More people yelled and rushed away from the danger, ignoring you in the process.

“I had it with this stupid chase, Vanisher!” Another whip crushed the window from a residential building. Voltage charged up his arm, the electric sparks spazzing out of control. He had you in his sight. “You’re coming with me, dead or alive!”

“Oh yeah? How are you gonna do that?” That wasn’t me…

“Why you little—”

Shinsou grunted as he lashed out his binding cloth to ensnare his target. Voltage’s power weakened once in a trance state, and the pro hero tugged the villain to the broken road. Shinsou kept the man tied up with his scarf, realizing it was the only thing strong enough to keep him immobile. You struggled to sit up. Shinsou demanded someone to call the police as he rushed toward your injured body.

“Hey, don’t move,” Shinsou gently held you in place. There was a purple bruise forming around your neck and a little bit of blood trickling down your chin. Shinsou frowned at what he saw. “What the hell happened?”

“Just got some bad blood with a sore loser,” you flashed him a crooked grin, the pain finally settling in. A cry for help interrupted your conversation, and Shinsou’s head snapped up. The building was on fire; Shinsou let out a curse. He couldn’t wait for other pro heroes or the fire department to show up. With no choice, he carried you away from the danger zone. “H-hey, what are you doing?”

“Stay here!”

Shinsou ran into the flaming pits of hell. You slowly rose to your feet, swaying back and forth on the sidewalk. Right now was the perfect opportunity to flee the scene. There were no cops or other pro heroes around, and Voltage was brainwashed. Yet, the deadly flames bursting through the shattered window paralyzed you. The only thing on your mind was Shinosu risking his life to save those people without any backup.

Damnit! Ugh…just this once!

You summoned a portal and stepped inside. The black smoke clogged the apartment, making everything harder to see or breathe. You covered your lower face and searched for anyone in this furnace. You stepped into another room, and your eyes spotted four figures huddled in the corner. Shinsou stood in front and tried thinking of a way out.

“Hey!”

“I told you to stay put!”

“Not gonna happen,” you shouted, opening a weak portal by the family. “Run toward it now! I can’t hold it for too long!”

The family escaped unscathed. However, Shinsou refused to leave without you. Always the hero, you huffed at his stupidity. Through your blurred vision, you watched as he trudged forward. Unlike you, Shinsou had his mask, which acted as an impromptu breathing apparatus. But it hardly kept the thick smoke from invading his lungs. You extended your hand, and Shinsou’s fingers stretched as if his life depended on it.

A cracking noise skittered across the ceiling with a piece falling on Shinsou. You screamed, jumping over a line of fire to rescue him. Your throbbing arms lifted the broken piece off the hero’s back. His pulse was dangerously low, and you slung his limping arm over your shoulders. The flames kept growing, consuming everything that stood in its path. If you didn’t act quick, it would eat you and Shinsou too.

Your hand created a portal close enough to where you both stood. The distorted golden ring fizzled, a sign that your body was at its limit. But you wouldn’t give up. Fives steps were all you need to get the heck out of here. The fire roared in the background, furious at your disobedience for trying to escape the madness. Except when did you ever listen?

You dragged Shinsou through the portal and collapsed on the sturdy sidewalk. The ring closed in seconds. Your lungs inhaled the delicious air with immense gratitude. You ripped off Shinsou’s mask and repeatedly slapped his stubble cheek. “C’mon, c’mon! Wake up!”

A cough made you relax. Shinsou’s eyelids were barely opened when he croaked, “W-why?”

“I owe you one, remember?”

The corner of Shinsou’s mouth curled, a gurgled chuckle greeting your ears. You stifled a laugh and rolled on your back, staying put until the emergency response team arrived.

You remained in Minato City for eight months. Another couple of days wouldn’t hurt.

༛༛ ༛ ༛༺༻༛ ༛ ༛༛

Minato City’s nightlife was buzzing with excitement, and there were no signs of stopping. People flocked to their favorite bars, hoping to let loose after a stressful week at work. Salarymen drowned themselves in alcohol and cigarettes without a care in the world. It was the perfect recipe for you to con another unfortunate victim, but you decided to sit this night out.

You gazed at the city’s beautiful skyline. The lights twinkled like precious diamonds on display at a high-end jewelry store. However, you admired the sight from afar since tonight was the last time you’ll see it. By tomorrow, you’ll be in another city to lay low for a while. Keeping yourself off the grid was the best option to throw off your scent from Viper’s nose.

A pebble rolled beside your boot.

“Surprised you’re not down at the bars preying on your next money target.”

“Not really feeling it tonight,” you yawned, sparing a glance at Shinsou. He was wearing his usual hero attire, the mask resting underneath his chin. It gave you a perfect view of his chiseled jawline. You returned your sights on the bright streets and ignored the fluttering feeling in your heart. You coolly remarked, “I see you’re looking well.”

“Injuries weren’t so bad; I experienced worse ones before.”

“I don’t know about you, but it sounds like you’re trying to impress me.”

A deep chuckle was his only response. You raised an eyebrow when Shinsou stood beside you, almost too close than the previous encounters. Your hand clenched inside your coat pocket. Tonight’s weather forecast called for temperatures hovering just above the freezing point. Yet, your skin was feeling hot, and it wasn’t because of the black wool keeping you warm.

“The police interrogated the guy who attacked you,” Shinsou shared, making you still for a second before relaxing. “Heard his name is Voltage with connections to the underground crime lord called Mamba. So far, he’s not giving anything up.”

“And he won’t,” you sighed, watching a drunk guy whistle at a woman who passed by. “Viper and Mamba: they’re brothers who control the drug trade in their respective territories. I guess someone tipped Mamba off that I was in Minato City, and he lured me in with a false heist scheme.”

You leaned against the roof’s edge. “If I didn’t think so quick on my feet, I probably would have been in Viper’s clutches by now.”

“You should speak with the police,” Shinsou ignored your loud snort and pressed forward, “If you cooperate with the investigation, they’ll help you. Maybe place you in a witness protection program—”

“Don’t be so stupid, Shinsou. This is a highly organized crime ring we’re talking about!”

“The police can protect you!”

“No, they can’t.” You raised a finger at the hero, wagging it as you predicted his next response. “And neither can you. Besides, I don’t need someone protecting me. I’ve lived my entire life fending for myself, and I know what I’m doing.”

“And how has that worked out for you, huh?”

“Pretty fine until I made the stupid mistake of staying here!” You jabbed his chest before growling away. Two hands raked through your hair as you paced back and forth. You stopped, shooting daggers at Shinsou. “Like I said, I got bad blood with a few people. I’ve done shit I’m not too proud of, but that’s just life on the streets. You do whatever it takes to survive, even if it means constantly being on the run.”  

You spun away from Shinsou, your back straight as a rule and body visibly closed off. Puffs of white smoke slipped through your lips. The wind chill was not very merciful tonight as it froze your poor ears. You closed your eyes and heard Shinsou shuffle closer, his presence growing stronger by the second. His hand was gentle on your shoulder, almost as if he didn’t want to frighten you with the sudden touch.

Your mouth clamped shut when he whispered your name into the brisk night. You clenched your hand tighter when he pleaded, “You don’t have to keep running.”

“Yes, I do.”

“Then why did you stay here?” You bristled at the question, and Shinsou noticed. “Why didn’t you run away like before?”

“Because of you.” Shinsou’s hand twitched at the answer. Releasing a shaky breath, you turned around with conflicted eyes. For the first time in your life, your walls were crumbling down—the same ones that shielded you from the cruel world since childhood. It was too late to take back what you said, so you choked out, “I didn’t leave because I think I’m in love with you…and that terrifies me.”

A feathery thumb brushed your cheek. You gazed into his violet eyes; they were striking, yet carried a sense of fondness you’ve never seen before. He never said a word, but you were under his spell. Shinsou’s warm breath caused your entire face to flush once you realized how dangerously close he was in your bubble.

He admitted, with a raspy voice, “I feel the same way about you, except I’m not scared.”

“You’re stupid to think that way.”

“So be it.”

Time slowed as Shinsou lowered his lips and pressed them against yours. The kiss was sweet. Gentle. Innocent. You forgot about everything that was stressing your mind out. All your focus was on his lips—they were incredibly warm and soft and moved in a tender pace. You reciprocated the kiss with a tiny smile, your left hand clinging on his scarf. Shinsou grinned at your impatient tug; you were always so demanding.

However, after months of inhaling his rich scent, you were eager to taste him. You weren’t disappointed when you caught the sweet blend of dark cherry and black raspberry sprinkled along his mouth. A fresh jolt of excitement traveled down your spine. Shinsou’s arm wrapped around your waist, securing you in place. For a moment, you did not want him to let go—you didn’t want to run away from this safe haven.

If only the circumstances were different.

“You know I can’t stay…”

Shinsou didn’t say anything. His eyes, however, spoke volumes of how he felt about your decision. As much as it pained him to do so, he loosen his grasp on you. A portal opened not too far from where you both stood. You squeezed Shinsou’s hand and gave him a sad smile, the corners of your lips barely reaching your eyes.

The golden sparks lit up the dark rooftop, and one leg stepped on the other side. You paused, staring at Shinsou one last time, whispering, “Goodbye.”

Shinsou nodded mutely.

You disappeared into the portal, going on the run once again.

Sixth prompt is crossed off. Which one will be next? Stay tune! Thank you for reading! 

Previous prompt: Boy Next Door

Hero Camp Bingo Masterlist

[walviemort]

hidden blessing (2/?)

Summary: Killian thought the only thing he was left with after Milah’s death was a broken heart and a thirst for vengeance. It’s not until he gets to Storybrooke, after so many years spent in stasis, that he discovers something else: he’s carrying her child. How does this new, tiny blessing change his path? (Canon-divergent from 2x12.)

rated T | part 1 | AO3 | 2.2k

A/N: hey! It’s another update! looks like this might be an every-couple-weeks thing, as I find time to work on it. like the first chapter, this is dedicated to @sherlockianwhovian​ for being awesome. hope everyone is staying safe!

A few days later, Killian had been released from the hospital and was finally enjoying a much-needed uninterrupted nap—or so he thought. When he’d first arrived back at the docks, the prince and princess were also there, attempting to interrogate him about Cora’s whereabouts; why this town was convinced he was her babysitter was unknown to him, so he’d had to disavow them of that notion. (It had also become blatantly obvious where Emma had inherited both her violent streak and her impatience; even if the man hadn’t raised her, she was definitely his daughter—and he vowed then and there that such a fate would not befall his child).

He was already tucking himself into bed on his ship when he heard the commotion above deck that told him the so-called heroes had unlocked the cage containing the giant; the sounds of struggle (and what was hopefully the prince being punched) along with ensuing footfalls running off the ship were the last things he heard before sleep blissfully claimed him.

He was dreaming of what his quarters might look like with a crib next to his bed, toys strewn across the floor, when he was rudely awakened—again. What an inhospitable town.

“Hook?” a feminine voice called out from the deck. “I know you’re here.”

“Bloody hell,” he cursed to himself, throwing back the covers and rising as quickly as he could with his still-sore ribs. Getting his pants back on took more effort than he’d like, but that was all he bothered with.

Barefooted and bare chested, he climbed the stairs to see Regina waiting impatiently. “Yes, your highness?” he asked, not bothering to hide either the tiredness in his voice or his annoyance.

“There you are. My mother sent me. You know, the one you were supposed to kill?”

“Oh, that. Well, I didn't want to deprive you of a happy reunion.” His grin was fake and she knew it.

“Well, it's your lucky day. She and I have made amends.”

“And you're here to thank me? How sweet.”

Regina’s responding smile was equally fake. “Not quite. She wants to know if they've found the ship.”

If he’d had his hook, it would have been on her neck for interrupting his nap for what amounted to little more than a business conversation; she just wanted to know what was going on with the giant.

“Is that all?” he asked when he’d given her the update. “Because if so, I’ve really got some things to attend to here.”

“Yes, that’s all,” she said, but tilted her head in curiosity. “I figured you’d be a lot more ready to get your revenge. You’re typically chomping at the bit for some murder.”

“If I could get some bloody sleep, I’d be more ready for that,” he snapped back. 

She narrowed her gaze on him and looked him up and down. He wasn’t sure what she was looking for, but her eyes stopped at his midsection for a brief moment and widened. Instinctively, he moved his arm in front of him, but that might have been a fatal move. 

Her eyes found his again with an uncomfortably knowing smirk on her lips. “I’ll leave you to your rest, then. See you around, Hook.” And with a wave of her hand, she poofed away.

If she knew, he would deal with that later. First things first: back to sleep. (And maybe some food.)

----------------------------------

After a week of rest, he found his bones were doing much better, though the nausea he’d been dealing with had evolved into full-blown sickness. The pamphlets told him that was normal but it was exceedingly obnoxious. At least his food stores on board were fairly bland.

“I can’t believe you actually enjoy hard tack,” he said to the babe; a different pamphlet told him the baby couldn’t hear him yet, but it was comforting to talk to them—or at least complain.

Much like he’d noticed in the hospital, it was almost whiplash-inducing how quickly he’d rearranged everything in his life to put the child first. But he also knew that, had his life followed a remotely normal trajectory, he and Milah would have done the same. Where he once thought revenge was the only way to honor her, he now knew that protecting and raising this child would be better.

“But, oh love, I wish you were here,” he whispered to the night sky, hoping that wherever she was, she’d hear him.

He read over the pamphlets Doc had given him many times over, until they began to look ragged and he worried they might not make it through the duration of his pregnancy. One listed several books that could be referenced, but given his history with the town librarian—and he being the reason for her current leave of absence—he’d have to make do without them. 

Briefly, he considered seeking out Emma’s help; but based on their last encounter, he doubted she’d give it. Still, though—she was the only one around that had been through all this that he might be able to talk to. Maybe at some point. But not in the immediate future.

One fact remained, though: no child of Killian’s—and especially Milah’s—was safe while the Dark One still roamed free. So once he felt closer to being on the mend, he dug some ginger drops out of storage to hopefully aid the nausea and sought out his would-be allies.

Cora and Regina were deep in discussion when he arrived at the queen’s mansion, but he caught a few key phrases and didn’t care about interrupting. “Where's Rumplestiltskin gone?”

They both jumped at his voice, but were too poised to let it throw them off. “I don't know,” Regina answered tearfully.

A glimmer of hope he hadn’t felt since before the dark curse started to glow again. “Well, if he's left town, then he's powerless. He can be killed.” The ladies went on some diatribe about how they’d lose their magic if they crossed the town line, but he didn’t care. “Well, I don't need magic. I'll go after him alone.”

Regina stood and gave him a look he didn’t like—one that said she knew too much. For a moment, he feared she might out his secret, but thankfully she didn’t. She still lectured, though, “Even if you could find him, do you really think you could just walk to him and stab him in the heart with your sword?”

“Well, I'd prefer my hook, but I can't seem to find that now.”

“You're not going anywhere,” Cora scolded.

“I deserve my vengeance!” he bit out angrily. And, moreso, the security in knowing that his child would grow up safe. The pitying look Regina was giving him told him she at least understood.

Cora didn’t notice, thankfully. “You're right. You do, and with the Dark One gone, we can search for the one magical item that could actually kill him here—his dagger.”

Somewhat ironically, they ended up at the library, searching for...something. Part of him desperately wanted to leave them to their quest and find the recommended books, but much too quickly, Regina discovered the map.

It was easy enough to decipher. But he really should have seen Cora’s betrayal—and subsequent magical assault—coming. 

(At least Regina seemed vaguely apologetic before he was rendered unconscious.)

Whatever. He was more than capable of doing things on his own.

But first—he found those books; hopefully, no one would mind if he hadn’t formally checked them out. (The atlases...well, hopefully no one needed those references anytime soon.)

It took some more surreptitious spying to figure out where the Dark One had gone, and he took more than a bit of pleasure in knocking out the prince to retrieve his hook from storage in the constable’s offices. 

And then he was on his way to whatever this New York City was. He started reading a book called What to Expect When You’re Expecting on the trip there—then locked everything related to childbearing in his private safe on the ship before leaving it. He was confident no one would discover it, but one could never be too careful.

Finding the Dark One was surprisingly easy. 

Stabbing him was thrilling; everything he’d ever dreamed of.

But his fatal flaw was not factoring Emma Swan into the equation, nor the heavy metal canister she threw at his head.

Still, though: he’d stabbed a magicless Dark One with the worst poison known to man; another thing that had been stored in his safe. The last thing Killian saw before slipping into oblivion—again—was his mortal enemy’s prone form, knowing that there was no cure for the venom making its way to his heart.

I’ve done it, love, he thought. He’s done. We can move on. Which “love” that was, he didn’t have time to consider. All he knew was that finally, he could rest, and await whatever came next.

----------------------------------------------

He’d been in worse brigs than the one he subsequently found himself in. Having his left arm awkwardly chained to a bed frame wasn’t ideal but the Tamara lass fed him, let him use the lavatory as needed (which he was finding he needed to do with more regularity), even allowed him to bathe every few days. (Out of necessity, she’d also provided him with a bucket for dealing with his bouts of sickness; he wrote it off as withdrawal, and she didn’t question it. Not the first time a reputation as a boozy pirate worked in his favor.)

He was far from a willing prisoner, but she’d hidden his hook and always had her gun at the ready, so there were no smart ways for him to try to stage an escape. Besides, Baelfire—because he was the person Emma and the Crocodile had been searching for—had apparently absconded with his ship back to Storybrooke. (Which brought up all other sorts of memories and thoughts.)

“Don’t worry; I’ll take you back to it,” she promised him. If it weren’t for the fact she was constantly peppering him with questions about Storybrooke, he wouldn’t have believed that it was her destination, too. He was careful to not give much away, though; he doubted her goals were worthy. 

“Just when are you planning this trip? You’ve been saying that for two weeks now,” he had to ask her; he was finally starting to get a bit of cabin fever, and was eager to get back to his ship and chart out a future for him and his babe. 

“When I get the sign. Should only be a couple more days.”

He rolled his eyes and went back to his reading; he was nothing if not a patient man. As long as they left before the child arrived, he supposed it’d be alright. He’d have preferred the books he had on the ship but thankfully, only he had the key to where those were locked away. But reading Tamara’s collection of novels was a good way of learning about this realm. Despite not having actual magic, its advanced technology seemed to make up for it. 

Like the shower. Bloody hell, what a marvel! Tamara had to give him a lesson his first time using it, but what a luxury! (And to think it was a standard amenity here...incredible.) Letting the hot water run over him, cleanse his skin and soothe his aches, was the main thing that made this farcical imprisonment bearable. 

That, and it was in there he noticed the first visible sign of his child. Obviously, he’d been watching his midsection with a keen eye, but any changes seemed to be a long time coming. 

But then, at around 14 weeks, he first saw it: his navel was sticking out ever so slightly. Were it not for his minimal diet, he could have attributed it to normal weight fluctuations; but based on the increasing visibility of his ribs, he knew he was probably losing a bit of weight instead of the opposite. 

Still, his point of view of his stomach from inside the shower wasn’t the most reliable, he knew. But when he stepped out and stood in profile in the looking glass, it confirmed it: his child was starting to make his or her presence known. It still only looked like he’d eaten a rather large meal, but considering he hadn’t...bloody hell. Were it not for his prison guard rapping on the other side of the door for him to hurry up, he could have spent hours there staring at it.

It wasn’t long after that he started feeling the first twitches of movement within, as well. Nothing strong enough to be felt from the outside, of course—he thought it might be gas at first—but once he realized what was going on, it was all he could do to hide the tears of joy from his captor.

But he also found himself periodically plagued with guilt, especially with the revelation of Bae’s presence in this realm. Even so long after, he was still haunted by what he’d done to the boy. It was strange to think, but had things gone differently, they might have had the chance to actually be a family—the lad would have been an excellent big brother. 

That chance was probably long gone now, but it only furthered Killian’s resolve to be there for this one—to not do what either his or Bae’s father had done.

“That won’t happen to you, my love,” he murmured late at night, hand over the tiny bump and the tiny babe, gently fluttering within. “Gods above couldn’t keep me from you.”

----------------------------------------

thanks for reading!! tagging some friends (and let me know if you want a tag!) @cocohook38​ @wyntereyez​ @jennjenn615​ @superadam54​ @ashley-knightingale​ @justsomewhump​

[takeiteasypeasybaby]

Save Me: Chapter 18 - Angel or Devil?

~Hey guys! Chapter 18 has just been released ❤️ This is a dark chapter, so I’m just forewarning everyone that if anyone is triggered by sexual assault/rape then avoid this chapter. As always, love you guys and stay safe ✌🏻~

Molly and Negan were unstoppable, inseparable. Or so they thought? With Molly being put into harms way because of Negan, will he ever be able to forgive himself?

A couple days had passed since Negan and I came out as a official couple.

He always joked that we were now the King and Queen of the Sanctuary but I just rolled my eyes every time.

I was nice though, seeing him this genuinely happy.

But, in my heart, I knew it wasn't meant to last. Things right now were too perfect.

I had officially moved into Negan's room and now my room was like an office.

I guess this was what he meant way back when, when he asked me to help him run this place one day.

Negan was still the leader of course but now people knelt when I walked by too.

It was a curious feeling, it felt dated and wrong but at the same time it was exhilarating.

I felt like I was worth something, like people depended on me, more so than people ever did back home.

Sure, some people talked, but I didn't care because the majority were happy for both of us and I think that a lot of people liked having me by his side to calm his moments of rage.

There were far less punishments after all.

But some would always blame me and call Negan weak, especially Simon.

This was made worse by Negan's decision to demote him.

'There's my girl' Negan said smirking and sauntering up to me in the main hall.

He wrapped an arm around my waist as I was taking inventory of the food stuffs.

'You don't have to do that' Negan said confusedly.

I sighed 'I know, but I want to. I can't just parade around here without pulling my weight' I said turning around to face him.

'Well, all I'm saying is that you won't have time to do that once you accept your new position' he said smiling excitedly.

I tilted my head in confusion, 'what position? I thought we talked about that' I said in a hushed tone so no one could hear, even though all eyes were on us.

'I know that you're my partner darlin, but I need someone by my side in all operations, and you'd be goddamn perfect for that' he said softly and still smiling eagerly.

I looked at him hesitantly.

'Are you asking me to become your right hand man...I mean woman?' I whispered, he just nodded while smirking.

I sighed, 'but I'm not a Saviour?' I said slowly.

'I know that doll and I get that this is a lot, but I can't trust anyone else' he said softly.

'Besides, I've already given Si his notice' he said nonchalantly.

My eyes widened at this.

'You did what?!' I yelled in a strained whisper which now people could hear.

'He already hates me enough' I said sternly.

'So what if the asshole's threatened by you, maybe it'll kick him up the ass enough to get back in line' he said scowling.

I sighed and asked 'can I at least think about it?'.

He nodded in response as I walked back out of the hall.

Negan stayed in the hall, people asking him questions as I left.

I thought we had agreed on my position, but apparently not.

I rubbed my neck in frustration as I walked down the hall which was dimly lit for some reason.

There was silence, you could hear a pin drop.

Only the sound of my footsteps echoing down the hallway, when suddenly a large arm grabbed me at the corner and pulled me against the wall.

It was darker now, but I could make out the face.

It was Simon.

He shoved me forcefully against the wall, I winced at his aggression.

'What the hell do you want?!' I shouted.

'You. It seems, that around here you have nine fucking lives honey, so I'm gonna teach you a lesson' he snarled as he pinned my arms by my sides.

He was far stronger than I was.

'Help!' I screamed as he put his hand over my mouth, he chuckled sinisterly.

'Don't worry, I've made sure that Negan is occupied. He won't hear you, no one will' he said grinning viciously at me.

Although he had my arms pinned down, my legs weren't.

With all my might I collided my knee with his balls.

He winced and weakened his grip immediately.

I tried to get away but he pulled me back by my hair and landed a punch straight to my face.

I crashed down to the concrete floor immediately, the impact of the surface colliding with my head knocked me almost unconscious.

He punched me over and over, in my stomach, my legs, my face he left relatively untouched.

I was weakened, floating in and out of consciousness, lying on the floor and blood gushing out of my nose and cheek.

The shock concealed my pain until after.

I heard him unbuckling his jeans and I knew what was coming.

He pinned down my arms, digging into my skin as his weight crushed me.

I was numb, frozen and unable to move. Tears rolled down my cheeks.

A short while later, he stood up and spat venomously 'now I get what Negan was talking about'.

He pulled up his jeans and said 'now, you tell Negan about any of this, I give the heads up to my guys to kill your sister Tara, might even let them rape her first. Depends how I'm feeling. Oh, and tell your boyfriend that you want me to get my position back'.

He chuckled as he walked back down the corridor, leaving me there in a pool of blood on the floor.

Even after he left, I still felt him on me like I was somehow infected.

I lay there, shaking as tears continued to roll down my face, mixing with my blood.

As soon as I heard footsteps getting louder and louder, I knew someone was coming and I remembered what Simon had said.

I couldn't tell anyone.

I tried to gather myself back up and scrambled at the ground to pull myself off of the floor when I figure stopped dead in front of me.

Sherry.

I quaked and shivered in front of her, my entire body revealing cuts and bruises.

Her eyes widened as she was stunned to silence, 'oh my god' she whispered.

'Oh my god, Molly. Molly are you okay? What the hell happened?' she asked rushing over to me frantically.

As soon as I saw her face, I broke down.

Tears rolled more ferociously down my face now, I stuttered and scrambled to make words come out of my mouth.

She hushed me as talking made me more nervous, instead she held me up and stroked my hair as she brought me to my room.

There was no one else down the corridor, just me and Sherry.

Her eyes were filled with tears like mine at my pain.

She held me up all the way to my door and laid me gently down onto my bed.

'Shhh, I'm here now. I'm here. You're okay. You're safe now' she repeated as she stroked my hair.

'I'm gonna get Dr Carson to check you out. I'll lock the door behind me, don't worry' she said calmly as she walked towards the door.

She knew exactly what had happened without even asking.

I didn't know whether that was comforting or worrying, thinking the same might have happened to her.

'No, please Sherry! No one can know!' I yelled in between tears.

'You could get an infection and I'm not losing you. I'll make sure no one is around okay? Trust me' she said calmly.

I just nodded slightly.

I lay there, still until the Doctor came.

When he saw the state of me, he was overwhelmed.

'Molly, Dr Carson is gonna take a look at you, okay?' Sherry said quietly as she guided the Doctor into my room.

He sat nervously on the edge of the bed as he scanned over my bruises and cuts.

'Molly, the Doctor will need to touch you, is that okay?' Sherry asked nervously, I just nodded while I closed my eyes tightly.

I hated the thought of anyone touching me after what I went through, but I just kept thinking that the quicker I healed, the sooner I could see Negan.

He checked for broken bones. There were none, just a sprained wrist.

He then disinfected and covered the cuts, stitched up the more open ones.

Finally, he slowly handed me a morning after pill. I looked at it for a second, so did Sherry.

That was when it hit me.

I took it with a sip of water and just lay there while the tears rolled down onto my cheeks which were burning from the bruises.

He left paracetamol for me, alongside some bandages and antiseptic.

I just nodded at him and he left.

Sherry could barely look at me, her eyes so full of sorrow.

'I-I am so sorry that this happened to you Molly' she said crying as she sat down next to me.

Her face now hardened with anger, 'who did this to you?' she asked sternly.

I looked away and took a deep breath.

'If I tell you, you have to promise me that you won't do anything about it' I said sternly as my voice was shaking.

'Molly...' she said softly.

'Promise me!' I yelled as tears continued to flow.

She just nodded softly, 'Simon' I said hesitantly.

She looked at me with wide eyes, in silence.

'But if you told Negan...' she said softly.

'No. If Negan finds out, Simon will kill my sister and I don't doubt that he has people ready to do it if he gives the word' I said softly.

'He has to pay for this' Sherry said, rage filling her body.

'He will, eventually. But not now and not soon' I said shaking my head.

'What about Negan? He'll want to see you?' she said worriedly.

I nodded, 'you'll think of something to tell him' I said seriously.

She looked at me with her eyes wider than before, 'what would I say?' she asked frantically.

'I don't know. But you have to promise me Sherry, that you won't let him see me. I need you to do this, for me and Tara' I begged.

She sighed and looked to the floor, 'The doctor won't tell and I'll tell Negan that you're ill, but you'll be fine' she said nodding at me in reassurance.

I smiled weakly at her and thanked her.

She then left me so I could rest.

I lay there, staring up at the ceiling for what felt like hours. I couldn't sleep, I didn't feel safe enough to do so.

Suddenly there was a gentle knock at the door, my eyes widened as a rush of anxiety came over me at the thought that it might be Negan.

'Darlin, let me in' he said calmly.

My eyes teared up at hearing his voice.

I shut my eyes tightly and prepared myself so I sounded like I wasn't in pain.

'I'm just about to go to sleep' I shouted from the other side of the door.

'Darlin just let me see you, please. Sherry said that you we're ill. I wanna take care of you' he said softly.

I could hear the pain in his voice. Tears flowed down my face.

All I wanted was to just open that door and have him hold me forever and tell me that everything would be okay.

But I couldn't.

I wiped my eyes and sniffled as I composed myself.

'I’m pretty tired, I just want to sleep and I've got the flu so I wouldn't want to make you ill too' I said, pressing myself against the door frame, trying to feel him through the wood.

'In sickness and in health darlin. Just let me in' he said now with worry in his voice.

'I’m fine, I promise' I said sternly.

'I thought you moved into my room? Why don't you sleep there? You'd be more comfortable and I could be there for you' he said as his voice was breaking revealing the hurt he was feeling, not knowing why I was being distant.

I clenched my eyes tightly shut in agony. Tears flooded my face at his pain and mine.

I took a deep breath, knowing what I needed to do.

'I just need some space.  The move was too soon and I don't want to be your right-hand guy. Please, just give me time' I said sternly.

He was silent on the other side for a few minutes.

'Do you love me?' he asked sternly as I heard him bang his head against the door.

I wiped away my tears.

'Of course I love you. I just need time to myself to think' I replied weakly.

'Goodnight' I said gently, which he didn't respond too.

I only knew he had left once I heard his footsteps get quieter and quieter.

I limped back into bed, scared because I knew full well that he couldn't give this up.

He would come to my door every night and beg me to let him in.

A week later...

After a week of trying he came once more.

'Darlin, you better move back from this door because I'm about to break it down' he said sternly.

I gasped as his men broke the lock and the door swung open to reveal Negan standing there in front of me with three of his guys.

My bruises had faded slightly but they were still visible.

He just stared at me, tears forming in his eyes at the pain I was in.

'Leave us' he said sternly to his guys who immediately nodded and walked away.

Negan shut the broken door somewhat behind him.

'What the fuck happened?' he said, rage filling his body as he walked slowly towards me.

I tried to hold back my tears and fear.

'Nothing, I was sparring with someone and got hit. I'm fine' I said cooly as I moved away from his gaze and pulled my boots on.

'You're not fucking fine. You have bruises all up your arms' he said as he tried to reach out to touch me gently.

I flinched and yelled 'don't touch me!'.

He looked at me in confusion and worry. 'Darlin...' he said worriedly, making me fight back my tears once again.

'I said I'm fine' I said sternly as I turned and walked out of the door.

He paced after me. 'I don't believe you. I know you, you are the love of my goddamn life so I know when you're not telling me something' he yelled after me.

'Did someone hurt you?' he said slowly as he stopped in front of me.

I looked into his eyes, trying hard not to cry.

'No one hurt me, it was an accident then I got ill okay?' I said as I kept on walking, trying not to look at him.

'I need you to leave me alone, please. I need space' I said as I walked faster.

He stopped dead and didn't respond.

Silence echoed through the corridor, he had let me go...

[afni-fics]

Elder Scrolls DC - A Reluctant Dragonborn - Chapter 10: Bleak Falls Barrow - Interior (part 1)

Elder Scrolls DC - A Reluctant Dragonborn - Chapter 10: Bleak Falls Barrow - Interior (part 1) by C_R_Scott Chapters: 10/? Fandom: Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Red Robin (Comics), DCU (Comics) Rating: Mature Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence Characters: Tim Drake, Lucien Flavius Additional Tags: Crossover, Crossovers & Fandom Fusions, Skyrim/DCU crossover, Reluctant Dovahkiin | Dragonborn, Not Beta Read Summary:

The decent into Bleak Falls Barrow begins.

Previous Chapter | Masterlist | Next Chapter

-------------------------

Inside the Barrow, Tim kept good on his promise to the Argonian. He found the other bandits the reptilian man mentioned, and Tim was good to his word. He didn't kill any of the men guarding the entrance into the tunnels, but he certainly beat them down in a way that they wouldn't soon forget.

...Once they all came to, of course.

"Goodness," Lucien said as he toed one of the unconscious bandits by the firepit the criminals had set up for themselves, confirming they were well and truly out. "I don't think I've seen anyone fight like you do with your bare hands... or feet for that matter." He looked to where Tim was busy working the lock of a nearby chest the bandits had set up. "How did you learn to fight with punches and kicks like that?"

Tim didn't respond to Lucien until the lock was successfully cracked and the chest was swung wide open. There wasn't much there, much to Tim's disappointment. Only a couple of gems which he offered to Lucien, a handful of Septims which he pocketed for himself, and an old piece of iron armor that Lucien assured him was fairly worthless, so he left it in the box. "Years of training," he said as if that explained everything, which of course it didn't for Lucien. 

"Training where?" the scholar asked as he examined the gems in the firelight.

"Home."

"And where is home?"

Tim sighed. "I thought you were supposed to be investigating the Barrow, not me."

Lucien had enough grace to look sheepish. "I'm sorry, but it turns out you're a very intriguing fellow."

Tim rolled his eyes and grabbed a nearby torch, lighting it with the bandit campfire. "C'mon Lucien. Clearly this is not the inner sanctum of the Barrow. Let's keep moving." He led the way down the tunnels that seemed to go deeper and lower into the mountain itself. 

***

Because the tunnels themselves were round, Tim could hear nearly everything moving around ahead of them, most of which ended up being small packs of monstrously large and hostile rats the size of labrador retrievers. 

"Good grief... Even the rats are huge," Tim muttered under his breath as he fired an arrow at one of the creatures as it tried to scramble up a circular stairwell to savage his ankles. He felt a twinge of satisfaction as the one he shot ended up tumbling into another that had been trying to run up behind it, causing both to fall off the stairwell entirely to the floor below. 

"You mean the skeevers?" Lucien remarked as he examined an old Nordic pendant he found on a nearby table. "Do they not have them where you're from?"

"We just have rats, and they're maybe a fifth of the size of these things," Tim said as nocked one more arrow and shot the final skeever as soon as it came within his sight. At least, despite how repulsive and persistent these rodents were, they were allowing him a lot of target practice with his bow. 

Lucien chuckled. "You're homeland is lucky. These vermin are a menace. Careful not to let those bastards bite you. You're liable to get a disease if you're unlucky."

Tim sighed. "And I would be that unlucky." He paused a moment and listened, but heard no more skeevers.

***

It actually took a bit of wandering, but Lucien and Tim finally came across another bandit.  Tim had been watching the bandit from the shadows of the corridor leading into the large open room before a barred and apparently locked doorway. 

Tim waited there for a moment with Lucien right behind him, as he was planning how to ambush the bandit and knock him out as quickly as possible.

However, the Barrow had other ideas.

The bandit had figured that a large lever in the middle of the room was the key to opening the way into the next room, so he pulled it with barely any hesitation. Unfortunately for him, and much to Tim's horror, the lever did not open anything, but it did release a shower of wicked darts from nearly all sides into the unsuspecting man. The bandit was collapsed to the floor before the trap had finished skewering him. 

"Damn it!" Tim cursed as he finally deemed it safe for Lucien and himself to enter the room once the darts had stopped firing.

"Well, at least we know not to pull that lever," Lucien said as he went over to the bandit while Tim surveyed the room. Tim frowned as he quickly identified all the holes the darts had come out of. Everything was aimed squarely at the lever. Such an obvious trap.

"Is there anything we can do for him?" Tim asked Lucien as the scholar picked up one of the darts that had hit the stone floor instead of the bandit. 

"No. He's quite dead. I'm certain he was done in well before he even hit the floor." Lucien sniffed the dart cautiously. "I think I catch a whiff of Frostbite Spider venom on these darts as well. If it was just one or two, he might've been able to survive it with a quick dose of anti-venom. Twenty or thirty in one go, though... I think this trap would've felled a giant if they could fit through these tunnels."

Tim sighed and began to examine the barred door. "Well there's got to be a way to move forward." He looked at the way the bars were set up. It was clear these bars were set up in a way to move upward out of the way. However, the mechanism to lift the bars was completely hidden from their vantage point.

"I'll check the upper floor," Lucien said as he pointed to a stairwell that led up to a walkway above the door. "Perhaps there's a switch up there?"

"Maybe," Tim mused as he stepped back to take in the entire bottom level of the room again. Aside from the lever and dead bandit, there wasn't much else about the room except for some carved decorative statues and rubble. Then he paused as he watched Lucien examine some animal carvings on the upper level. "Wait..."

Tim noted the snake carving and the whale on the upper level, and noticed how a third carving, that of another snake, had fallen to the lower floor due to age. Then he looked at three animal carving statues on the immediate left side of the room consisting of two eagles and a whale between them. He went over and started examining the eagle closest to him. 

Much to his surprise, the moment he touched the eagle carving, the entire pillar it was resting on shifted. Tim's eyes lit up. "Is it really that simple?" he asked himself under his breath as he put down his bow so he could use both hands to push the pillar on one side. As he anticipated, the entire stone pillar began to turn clockwise, stopping only when the image of another animal, a whale, was now facing forward.

"Did you figure it out?" Lucien called down as he heard the sound of stone scraping against stone and notice what Tim was doing. By the time Lucien came down the stairs, Tim was already moving the third pillar so that the pattern of the pillars matched the pattern that was supposed to have been on the second level. 

Snake... Snake... Whale...

"We'll find out in just a moment," Tim said as he went to the lever and pulled it without hesitation.

  -------------------------

Warning: This is being pantsed more than plotted, and this is not beta read. We'll see where this journey takes us. Mostly I'm just doing this for my own amusement.

Note1: If you have any questions about the playthrough and Tim's feelings/experiences that aren't described in the chapters, please ask me in the comments. I'll do my best to answer your questions as best I can.

Note2: Part 1 of... a couple of parts. I'm not sure how many parts this trek through the Barrows is going to take. Been busy with work and family the past week, so wasn't able to do much playing or writing, though I really wanted to. With the weather turning bitterly cold recently, I'm definitely carving out some time to write and play this weekend.

[waitimcomingtoo]

In Case You Don’t Live Forever - Chapter Seventeen

Pairing: Peter Parker x Venom!reader

Warnings: Endgame spoilers

Masterlist

Unchained Melody (the song at the end)

You woke up the a small jolt of lightning hitting your chest. Your whole body felt electrified as the bolt coursed through your veins. Your eyes fluttered open and you were blinding by the bright lights.

“Pe-“ you managed to mutter out before giving up. It hurt to talk. You felt like you had been run over several times with a truck. You briefly remembered tweeting Harry Styles years ago, telling him you’d thank him for running you over with a truck. You had laughed at the time but it came back to haunt you in this moment.

“Lady Y/n!” Thor cheered. His hammer was resting on your chest, right over your heart. You assumed he’d used it as a defibrillator. As you slowly came to your senses, you realized you were lying on your back. All the Avengers were gathered around you, minus Nebula. You looked to your right and saw Tony pouring something over your dominant arm. You hadn’t even realized he was doing anything when something came to you. You couldn’t feel your arm. It laid there limply as Thor and Steve helped you sit up. You couldn’t move it and began to panic.

“Guys?” You asked as you repeatedly picked up your limp arm and dropped it. You couldn’t even feel it hitting the floor.

“Shhh it’s alright. Just be glad you’re alive.” Tony comforted you as he pulled you into a tight hug. You wrapped your normal arm around his neck and felt tears prick at your eyes.

“I’m sorry I yelled at you.” You whispered in his ear. Tony brushed hair out of your face and wiped away your tears with his rough thumb.

“Don’t worry about me, kid. I’m just glad you’re okay.” Tony assured you. You nodded at him.

“I was so scared. I looked at you to see your face but your mask was covering it.” You stated. You felt like a child being comforted by their parent. You were slightly embarrassed now. The Avengers watched you stand up to Tony and say all those horrible things only to have you come right back after the snap. You had fully expected to die after snapping. Your cheeks heated up at the thought of your words.

“I’m sorry, kid. I should’ve let you see my face.” Tony’s eyes were full of regret. You didn’t hold anything against him. You suddenly remembered what it was all for.

“Did it work? Is everyone back?” You asked. Before anyone could answer you, an explosion knocked you unconscious.

Peter Parker had just fought the greatest battle of his life. He turned to dust, woke up in a strange orange place, and was immediately thrown back into battle. He called the orange place “Orange Target” was while he was there, much to Doctor Strange’s dismay. It wasn’t the worst in Orange Target. He made friends with Shuri and the Guardians. He’d only spent about 5 hours there before Doctor Strange told him Thanos was back and he had to fight again. Peter was ready to use his new iron suit and defeat Thanos for good this time. He ran into battle behind Steve and Thor and began to fight space dogs from Thanos’s army. He spotted Shuri kneeling near a door and ran towards her.

“Need some help?” He asked his friend. Shuri laughed and waved her hand.

“I got this, Parka. Go keep an eye on my brotha for me.” Shuri told him. Peter nodded and skipped away.

You weren’t sure how long you were out this time. You were woken up by someone shaking your arm.

“Miss? Are you alright?” A girls voice asked you. She had an accent but you couldn’t pinpoint where it was from. She helped you sit up as you became aware of your surroundings. The tower was smashed to pieces. There were small fires and rubble everywhere. You heard shouting in the distance. The sky was a deep orange with huge yellow rings. You saw a thick door next to you and you figured you had been under it for a while.

“Did you pull me out?” You asked the girl. Her hair was in fancy buns and braids and she had tribal markings on her face. She nodded.

“I saw your leg sticking out from unda the door. People were looking for you for a while.” The girl told you.

“Who?” You asked. You suddenly became aware of the shouting on the intercom in your ear that all Avengers wore.

“On your left!” An unfamiliar voice said into the intercom.

“Stop saying that! I already saw you.” Steve’s voice answered angrily.

“I have the gauntlet. Nebula just killed Nebula. I think I’m on acid.” Clint’s voice said. You pulled your attention away from the intercom and turned back to the girl.

“Thanks for pulling me out. What’s your name?” You asked her. You were very dazed and confused but you wanted to thank your savior. You went to shake her hand but she had some kind of hand blasters on.

“Shuri.” She told you. “And you?”

“Y/n.” You answered. She smirked.

“Ah. So you’re the one Peetah won’t shut up about.” Shuri said. You didn’t even hear her. You were too focused on the battle you saw in front of you. You could see Thor, Steve, and Tony fighting a giant purple man in the far distance. You assumed he was Thanos. What you couldn’t figure out was where all the other people had come from. There were thousands of people fighting some kind of space dogs. You saw some flying, some using magic, some using weapons you’d never seen before, and some holding spears while in matching outfits.

“What’s happening?” You asked Shuri.

“Thanos came to retrieve the stones but everyone was brought back to fight him.” Shuri answered you. Your attention snapped back to her.

“Everyone’s back? My snap worked?” You gasped. If everyone was back, that meant Peter was somewhere on that battlefield waiting for you. You jumped up, despite the ache in your bones. Your arm was still flopping around like a wet noodle.

“You’re the one who snapped?” Shuri asked incredulously. You nodded as you scanned the battlefield for Peter. Shuri crossed her arms in front of her chest in an x shape and looked your firm in the eye.

“Thank you.” Shuri said. You didn’t know what she was doing so you hesitantly copied her motion and crossed your arms in front of your chest.

“You’re welcome?” You said as more of a question. Shuri’s hand blaster retracted into a bracelet and she took your hand.

“Come. My brotha is this way. He’ll want to thank you too.” Shuri pulled you towards the battle.

You jumped right into battle and found yourself near Thanos soon enough. This was no mistake. You wanted to make him pay for what he did. When Thanos was distracted by Tony, you jumped on his back and wrapped your arms around his fat neck. They barely went all the way around and you certainly couldn’t do anything to hurt him. Thanos was wearing you like a necklace.

He pulled you off his neck and threw you against the ground. You knew you had made a mistake. Tony was distracted by one of Thanos’s men and he couldn’t come to your rescue. You were defenseless now. Thanos stalked towards you and you began to back yourself up with your good hand. You hit a big rock and backed yourself up onto it it. There was no where else to go. Thanos was on top of you now. You reached your good arm around the rock and hugged it for comfort.

“Stupid girl.” Thanos declared in a low voice. “Did you really think you can stop me when you’re only human? I’m at the top of the food chain, my child. You’re at the bottom.” Thanos got in your face. Though you couldn’t see your arm, you felt something warm touch it.

“I may be human.” You leaned in closer to him, much to his surprise. “But I will never be a bottom.”

With that, you bonded with Venom and punched Thanos square in the face with her inky black arm. Thanos flew back and you stood up. You held out your arms as Venom seeped back into your skin. You watched as your body transformed into Venom for the first time in five years.

“I’ve missed us.” You cheered as she appeared in her snake like form and hovered in front of your face.

“We’ve missed you too.” Venom said. More tears fell at the sound of her voice. Both your arms were functioning with Venom in your veins. You leaned forward and pressed a long kiss to her forehead.

“Ready to kick some ass, baby?” You asked her.

“We are ready.” She nodded. You turned into Venom and charged towards Thanos. You put up a good fight but in the end, he was still bigger and stronger than you and Venom. He had you by the neck and you thought all hope was lost when he suddenly dropped you and fell to the ground. As he fell, Nebula stood behind him with a tranquilizer. She looked up at you and gave you an awkward smile as you let your face show.

“Girl power?” She asked, unsure if herself. You nodded excitedly and pulled her into a hug. She was cold and made of metal, but you didn’t mind.

“That’s right! Girl power!” You exclaimed. Nebula gave you another smile. They got better and more natural every time.

“Hey! Green lady! Have you seen a big black monster with white eyes? And if you have, can you please not tell them I called them a monster?” Peter asked Gamora, whom he’d never seen before. He didn’t know Venom was dusted. He figured if a battle was going on, you were there and in Venom form.

“No. I’m looking for my sister. Have you seen a blue bald chick?” Gamora asked Peter. Peter shook his head.

“Alright. Good luck finding her.” Gamora said.

“You too.” Peter ran in another direction.

Meanwhile, Nebula looked proud of herself as she kicked her father’s body.

“My father should be out for a few minutes. I have to find my sister. Will you come?” Nebula asked you. You nodded and went with her to the other side of the battlefield.

You transformed back into yourself right as Nebula found Gamora. Gamora handed Nebula a weapon and offered you one, but you declined.

“No thank you. I have my own weapon.” You told her politely. Gamora smiled at you and put her gun away. You noticed Rocket was behind her, along with a tree, a blue man, a girl with antennas, and a man lying on the ground while holding his groin in pain.

“Y/n! Look everyone, it’s that babe I told you was all over me. This is my crew!” Rocket announced. You shook hands with the girl and the man, who’s names you learned were Drax and Mantis. Finally, you turned to the tree.

“I am Groot.” The tree said.

“Hello Groot. We are Venom.” You and Venom responded. Groot smiled at you before going back to battle.

Speaking of the battle, you noticed Steve getting his ass handed to him by Thanos. You excused yourself and ran towards him. Right as Thanos was about to bring his giant sword down on Steve and slice him in half, you slid in the middle of them and held up your hand. Venoms arm became like shield that deflected the blow from Thanos’s sword. You were still you but had Venoms massive arm. You turned your head to look at Steve and smiled.

“Hey Captain. Always use protection, am I right?” You wiggled your eyebrows and nodded towards your shield, or in this case, your “protection.”

“A condom joke? In the middle of a battle? I’m going to have a talk with you after this young lady.” Steve scolded. You rolled your eyes as Thanos continued to hit your shield. You didn’t mind the blows. It was giving Steve a chance to take a well needed rest.

“I’m only kidding Captain. You’re welcome by the way. Oh, and this is my best friend Venom. Say hi, Venom.” You said. Venom poked her head out and smiled at Steve.

“We are Venom.” She said.

“I am Steve Rogers.” Steve answered as he pointed to himself. You smiled at the interaction.

“We’re gonna go help Tony.” You told him, smiling at the chance to use “We” again.

“Go. I’ll be fine.” Steve nodded. You slipped away and looked around for Tony.

Peter had found Tony lying on the ground and immediately ran to his aid. To Peters surprise, Tony pulled him into a tight embrace, despite having seen him just 5 hours ago.

“I’m good here, Underoos. Go help Cap.” Tony assured Peter after their hug. Peter nodded, excited to be useful, and went to find Cap.

You couldn’t find Tony so you began to help anyone you saw needing help. You pulled a few space dogs off Black Panther, ate a few of Thanos’s army men who were attacking Scott and his girlfriend, The Wasp, and punched someone who was hitting Rocket and Groot with lasers.

Soon, a giant game of hot potato broke out with the Infinity Gauntlet. Through the intercom, you heard a series of “I got it!” and “pass it to me!”. You could barely make out who’s voice was who’s but you could’ve sworn you heard a familiar queen accent screaming over intercom. You stopped in your tracks and listened closely.

“Hi, my name is Pet- OH MY GOD.” A voice yelled over the intercom, followed by a horse whining. You’d recognize that voice anywhere. You began to look around for him frantically but were suddenly distracted by something entering the atmosphere. You looked up and watched in awe as Captain Marvel destroyed Thanos’s ship. You saw her land near you and talk to someone who you couldn’t see, but mustn’t been lying on the ground. You noticed as more and more women formed around her.

“Welp. Duty calls.” You said as you walked over and joined the women. Carol now had the gauntlet in her hands. You didn’t turn back to see who she had taken it from. You only matched forward with the other women, not having any clue where you were going or what you were doing, but still walking beside them without a moments hesitation. Together, you all fought and killed the space dogs in your way. Carol flew to Scott to give him the gauntlet and the other women slowly dispersed.

You were kicking major ass at this point. You jumped in the air and tore apart a space dog. You landed in a spider like position and popped your head up.

“Venom, porcupine mode.” You said. With that, Venom shot out tendrils in all directions, directly into the bodies off all the space dogs around you. Each tendril pulled out the heart of the space dog it was inside, killing them instantly. You killed 17 space dogs in a matter of seconds and smiled at your work.

“Venom?” Came a voice behind you. You stopped admiring your work and slowly turned around.

There, right before your eyes, was the boy you’d waited for for five whole years. There, safe, alive, a little worm from battle, but ultimately okay.

“Peter?” You asked. His name was alien on your lips. You hadn’t said it to him since the day he left for MOMA. You couldn’t believe it. It couldn’t be real. It had been too long and you’d lost hope too many times.

“Is Y/n in there?” Peter yelled. He was pretty far away, but still close enough to hear. You realized you were in your Venom form and Peter couldn’t see you. You transformed back into yourself as a tears of joy swam in your eyes.

“Peter?” You asked again. You were in complete disbelief. He looked different. From

what you could tell, he was shiny. Was it really him, or was it a trick?

“Y/n!” Peter cried. He began to run towards you. Without thinking, your feet began to move too. They carried you towards the boy without you even trying.

You crashed into Peter and immediately put your lips on his. Your good arm was around his neck and it held him as tight against yourself as you could. His arms were just as tight around your waist as he kissed you back. The kiss became sloppy and a little salty as hot tears ran down your cheeks before you even realized you were crying. You could barley compose yourself long enough to kiss him properly. You cried against his mouth and pressed kisses to his entire face before pulling him into a tight hug. His magical laugh filled your ears and you crumbled to your knees. He followed you down and held you closer.

After taking him all in, you pulled away and put your hands on his face. It was exactly the way you remembered, like you had left a bookmark in a book. Everything was still there. His freckles dotting his crooked nose. His thin, always red lips. His pretty brown doe eyes. You never loved brown eyes until you loved somebody with brown eyes. It was there. It was all still there. You tried to form a sentence but only sputters and parts of words came out. Peter laughed at your inibility to speak until you finally managed to say one word.

“Hi.” You said stupidly, in a squeaky voice. Hi? Really? You hadn’t seen him in 5 years and mourned his loss everyday. The best you could come up with was hi?

“Hey.” Peter answered. You could physically feel your broken heart mending back together. You smiled at him brightly before pulled him into another hug. You took in his scent. It was the same as always though also had hints of that new car smell. You bunched your fingers in his soft curly hair. You felt his warm cheek pressed against yours.

“Why are you hard?” You asked suddenly, still in Peters embrace.

“Uh, what?” Peter asked. He pulled away and looked at you confused.

“Your suit. Your suit is hard now.” You knocked on his arm and it made a clanging sound. “Is it made of metal?”

“Ohhh. That kind of hard.” Peter laughed. “Uh, yea. Mr. Stark made it for me. It’s made of iron.”

“Iron? Like his suit?” You asked. Peter nodded excitedly and began to ramble about all the cool new features. Then he began to tell you about space and how it felt to turn to dust. You happily listened until he mentioned that he’d only been on the bus five hours before.

“Five hours? Peter, you were gone for five years.” You told him. Peter looked at you in bewilderment.

“I was gone for five years?” He asked and you nodded. “Did-did you move on? Are we…are we still-“

You cut Peter off with a proper kiss this time. He melted into your lips and you sighed in content.

“Of course. Of course we’re still together. Till death do us part, remember? Good thing I sang that song to you all those years ago. Since you decided not to live forever.” You teased. Peter pretended to be offended.

“It’s not my fault I was turned to dust.” Peter said. You laughed and pulled him into another kiss, right as Steve and Thor ran by.

“Wait, Queens is the boy you’ve been talking about for the past five years?” Steve asked in shock. Peter looked at you with a smile as your cheeks turned red.

“Lady Y/n is dating the spider child?” Thor wondered as well. “Why didn’t you tell us his name?”

“I was trying to keep his identity a secret. I didn’t think he was gonna introduce himself to every freaking person on the battlefield.” You answered, giving Peter a look. He shrugged sheepishly, knowing he had told everyone his full name and walked around without his mask. It’s like he wanted to world to know his identity.

“You kept my identity a secret for five years? I can’t even keep it a secret for five seconds.” Peter said in amazement. You nodded so he kissed you again.

“Alright lovebirds, break it up. We still have a battle to win.” Steve said. You and Peter got up and walked hand in hand to the battle.

Your first happy memory with Peter upon his return was also your last one. He was devastated by the death of Tony, as were you. You felt so stupid. Maybe things would’ve been different if you had let him do the first snap. Maybe he’d still be alive. You hadn’t told Peter about your snap yet. You told him you’d inured your arm in the battle. He didn’t ask any further questions.

Your arm had to be amputated up to the elbow after the battle and you felt like all your self confidence had gone with it. You wore a black dress that covered your scar to Tony’s funeral. You stood by Peters side and held his hand with the one hand you had. Aunt May stood on the other side of him and rubbed comforting circles onto his back.

You were hurting, badly. Losing your arm, Tony, Nat, and Steve all at once took a toll on you. You couldn’t even be happy that Peter was back. You were happy, of course, you just couldn’t show it. Your home was destroyed, obviously, but you had held on to your old apartment. The landlord had vanished in the snap so you stool the deed to Peter and Mays apartment and owned it, rent free. They moved back into their apartment, and had all their stuff thanks to you putting it all in storage. You gave Peter his clothes that you refused to wear while he was gone. Everything worked out for the Parkers. You, on the other hand, had no clothes, no furniture, and no arm. You were in worse shape now than you were in the past five years. But at least now you had Venom, Peter, MJ, May, and Ned to get you through it. You came to realize you didn’t need any material items. You only needed the people around you.

After the funeral ceremony, you kept your distance from Peter and stood at the far end of Tony’s estate with a glass of water in your hand. Everyone else was talking but you were alone in the corner. Everyone looked so depressed. You never would’ve guessed the battle had been won. You watched Peter sit on a bench and stare off into the water as Tony’s memorial floated away. May sat next to him and rubbed his arm but he didn’t respond. You looked down at your own lack of arm and felt tears sting your eyes.

“You must be Y/n.” A calm voice startled you. You turned and saw a man with a funny beard and salt and pepper hair next to you.

“Um, yes.” You stammered, not expecting anyone to talk to you. “That’s me. Who are you?” You quickly wiped at your tears so he wouldn’t see. But he didn’t need to see them to know you were crying.

“Doctor Strange.” The man answered. You recognized the name from Peters rant when you first reunited.

“I’m Y/n. Oh. You already knew that. But how did you know?” You asked as you nervously downed the last of your water. Doctor Strange chuckled and you noticed your cup magically refilling. You sipped it and it was chamomile tea, Mary’s favorite drink.

“The first thing Peter said when he woke up wasn’t “where am I?” or “what happened?” like everyone else. It was your name. He asked for you.” Doctor Strange said. Your eyes wandered back to Peter and you felt a weight on your chest.

“Why are you telling me this?” You asked the man. His name suited him. He was very strange and vague.

“Because you’re experiencing doubts. And regret. I’m trying to assuage you.” Doctor Strange answered. You looked at him. How could he know what you were feeling?

“What are you, some kind of mind reader?” You asked timidly. Doctor Strange was right. You regretted snapping. You’d still have an arm if you hadn’t snapped. It didn’t kill you and you were human. Had Bruce or Thor done it, they would’ve been totally fine. And worse, you were doubting your relationship with Peter. He was 18 and you were 24. You were done with college and had a full time job at the Daily Bugle. He was still a child while you were forced to grow up in his absence. On top of that, you were both grieving Tony, as well as Nat, and the loss of your arm. How could two broken people possibly be in a functioning relationship together? You wanted to be with Peter, you had no doubt about that, but you felt like you needed a break. But you felt stupid for wanting that because you just took a five year break. You were a different person than the one Peter left behind five years ago. He had to relearn everything he knew about you. But how could you possibly tell Peter all that when he just lost Tony? And even worse, how would Peter react when he found out the snap that killed Tony had only left you with one less arm? Would he wish it was you who died?

“I’m not a mind reader. But I am all knowing. I told you that because you need to have faith in Peter. I know you’re both in pain but you have to give it time. Don’t run from him just yet.” Doctor Strange warned. You looked at your tea to avoid eye contact.

“Why do you care? I thought you were the protector of the reality or something. Why would my love life concern the great and powerful Strange?” You half heartedly mocked.

“Because I saw 14,000,605 ways the world was going to end, and Peter loved you in all of them.” Doctor Strange replied. You looked up at him in amazement.

“Really? That’s a real number?” You asked. You instantly felt dumb but Doctor Strange chuckled.

“Yes, it’s a real number. And you’re right, I usually don’t concern myself with frivolous romance. But I didn’t see another couple alive that the same could be said about. The highest anyone else got was 11.” Doctor Strange laughed but you didn’t find it funny. You were mostly shocked and a little impressed.

“Only 11? And Peter and I had 14,000,605?” You asked for confirmation.

Doctor Strange nodded and looked over at Peter.

“I almost didn’t believe it. But it was right there in front of me. I’m not supposed to tell you things about the future or else they won’t come true, but you looked like you needed to hear some good news.” The doctor said.

“And your good news is that Peter is stuck with me in every possible version of reality?” You chuckled lightly. It felt strange to smile at a funeral so you quickly stopped.

“My good news is you’ve done the impossible. You’ve transcended the laws of nature and found a soulmate. It’s something most of us only hope to do. And you did it at 19 years old simply by moving in across the hall from a loser with a spandex suit.” Doctor Strange chuckled again. You went to hit his arm, forgetting your own arm was no longer there. You awkwardly reached with your other arm and smacked his shoulder. He carefully watched your struggle.

“He’s not a loser. He’s my soulmate.” You reminded. You felt a strange sense of pride knowing that you could say that and it was proven to be true. Doctor Strange smiled back and put his hand on your arm stump.

“I guess you’re right. I’ll see you around, Y/n. Take care of yourself. And remember what I told you.” Doctor Strange said as he disappeared the way he came. You waved with one hand and took a sip of your tea with the other. It took you a few moments to realize you had two arms again. You looked around for Doctor Strange to thank him, but he was nowhere to be found. You looked at your new arm and made a fist. You knew exactly what the first thing you wanted to do with it was.

You found Peter talking to Thor and Bruce and slipped you new hand into his. It took Peter a second to realize which hand you were using. He looked from your face, to your intertwined hands, and back again in bewilderment.

“Y/n! Your arm is back!” Peter gasped. You smiled happily and nodded, not wanting to draw too much attention to yourself considering where you were.

“Doctor Strange worked some of his magic.” You whispered to the three men who were looking at your arm in amazement.

“Loki used to do magic.” Thor recalled sadly. You and him both lost your siblings before the snap. And while everyone was reunited with their loved ones, you had to accept that Mary and Loki weren’t coming back. Thor didn’t talk about Loki often. You knew it was a sore topic for him. He noticed your sudden mood change at the mention of his brothers name.

“He worked some magic on you, didn’t he Lady Y/n?” Thor smirked. Bruce laughed, having heard the story and Peter looked confused.

“What? What magic?” Peter asked. You shook your head and gave Thor and Bruce a stern look that said “zip it.”

“Nothing. Don’t worry about it baby.” You said and you pressed a kiss to Peters cheek. Peter gave you a tight lipped smile in return. You knew it’d be a while before you saw him smiling again, but this was a good first step.

After the funeral, you went to Peters house and held him while he cried. You sang to him softly as his tears seeped into your shirt.

“Oh, my love, my darling

I've hungered for your touch

A long, lonely time.”

You sang quietly as you ran your fingers through his hair. Peters sobs became the silent kind and all that could be heard was your voice.

“Time goes by so slowly

And time can do so much

Are you still mine?”

You continued. Peter began to calm down a little and snuggled further into your neck.

“I need your love

I need your love

God speed your love to me.”

You sang even softer into his ear. You felt his breathing slow as he exhausted himself further.

“Lonely rivers sigh

Rivers sigh

Rivers sigh.

"Wait for me, wait for me, wait for me.”

Peter was almost asleep now.

You finished the song quietly before falling asleep yourself in Peters bed.

“I'll be coming home, wait for me.”

Tag List 🏷

@monimiin @truthdaze @honeyccoated @constellationswithapurpose @condy-wants-a-cookie @zipp0flare @vxidnik @maddie-laufeyson @bubblegumholland @the-blindwatcher @pmvelez97 @ziggyspurplehaze @grippleback-galaxy @fangeekkk @twilight-loveer @assemblemotherfuckers @bolivianchickennugget @founding-fuck-bois @neonpandicorn @charismas-world @justletmesleeptillidie @multifandom-fiasco @mellow-delight

[jeanstoppable]

17th & 18th OF OCTOBER

hop, step, jump

fuck your pride

(A/N: Fun fact! This oc is based on a dream of mine AND they exist on the same universe as Yelena/Yasemin, my villain oc. Now, buckle up cause it’s time for some Cyberpunk goodness.)

Supposedly, there’s an unspoken rule that whatever background you came from, rich or piss poor or somewhere in between, as long as you end up in the streets, you’ll always be at the bottom of the system. Unless you fight your way up---that is to say, if you survive the climb.

“Hey!” A voice called out from behind.

I stopped walking and peeked over my shoulder, expecting trouble that’s usually present around these parts to have finally found me and lo and behold, a bunch of ‘thugs’ were waiting at the entrance of the alley. Four people differentiating in sizes, three men and one woman, their dark silhouettes painted by the bright neon lights behind them were nothing short of intimidating. 

My eyes darted to the walls of the two surrounding buildings, measuring the distance between each window, the extending pipes and the height of both structures. Scalable. There was also that fire exit just ahead, I reminded myself as I mulled over what will happen within the next 10 minutes. 

A fight, no doubt.

I glanced at the floating holographic numbers on my wrist, taking into account the time and---the meeting that was about to start soon.

Escaping might be the more reasonable choice but...

I hate taggers.

Blowing out a rough sigh, I turned my attention back to the group who was now leisurely cruising towards me, wearing devilish grins and haughty gazes. Some of them were even cracking their knuckles while exchanging unashamed jabs about having first dibs grated on my ears---and my nerves.

Oh boy. Things are about to get interesting.

My lips curled into a snarl as I repressed the overwhelming urge to be the one to draw first blood. Instead, I focused on scrutinising them individually from top to bottom: their gadgets, clothes, bags, shoes. Anything of importance at all that I can lift and hopefully sell.

It only took a moment to finish the assessment, if you know how to estimate things from face value. 

After gathering enough information, I spun to fully face them, smirking provokingly as I loosened the straps of my bag, letting it hang on my fingers and then swinging it.

“Alright, assholes!” I whistled cheerfully before letting the venom bleed into my tone, “Whoever’s got first dibs, you’re up.”

Each of them looked taken aback for a second but then their expressions darkened, my words finally registering as insults, as they should, and then immediately charged forward.

I halted the swinging of my bag.

It was the slightly skinny man that approached me first, I figured he was the leader or something along those lines because he was the one barking the most---however… I narrowed my eyes and observed as the man tossed his shoulder back and aimed a fist at my face. I ducked to avoid it, then I tightened my grip on the straps of my bag and swung it to his side, hitting him square in the ribs----accompanied by a distinct crack and a metal clanking noise.

The man howled in pain as his body smashed into the wall to the left.

One down. Ignoring the groans, I stepped over the crumpled man’s legs and stared down the group with a raised chin. 

I huffed and then pointedly tilted my head at the others, “Next?”

The second one didn’t hesitate to attack, taking on the challenge. There was an enraged expression on his face as he reached forward with knees bent and back lowered while his arms went wide to try and trap me in a grapple. Seeing through him, I grabbed my bag with both hands, feeling the solid weight of the robotics inside, and rushed forward to match the man’s attack. 

Right before his arms would’ve caught me, I clutched the bag close and whacked it in his face, successfully causing him to lose balance. 

Taking advantage of this, I lifted a boot and launched a strike to his thigh, swiftly bringing him to his knees. Without a second to waste, I twisted on my heels to deliver the final kick to the side of his head, waiting for the satisfying thud of his body hitting the ground---

There was a blur of shadow to my right and before I knew it, excruciating pain bloomed in my stomach. 

The third came quicker than I anticipated, it was the woman, who didn’t wait for the fight to finish as she sneaked up on me and ruthlessly swung the bat directly to my gut. I hit the ground a second later after the previous guy did, landing on my ass hard. Fucking ouch. 

I shot a glare at the woman and within her grasp was the source of my injury, which was a goddamn light-up metal baseball bat.

“Bitch, don’t get ahead of yourself.” The woman hissed.

My blood’s boiling even more now. I bit the inside of my cheek to hold in the groan that was about to escape me as I willed myself to get up, slightly making it look like I’m struggling more than I actually was and then ripped off the mask covering half my face. 

Hook, line and sinker.

Puffing proudly, she took a step forward closer and was about to pitch another hit when I hastily seized my arms around her hips and forcefully pushed, knocking the woman off her feet as she fell backwards on the asphalt. I wasted no time to straddle her, trying to wrestle off the bat from the woman’s tight grip, but what the hell, she wasn’t letting go at all.

Letting out a frustrated growl, I took a hold of her collar, pulled it towards me, and then spat the blood that I’ve been purposely pooling in my cheeks in her face. 

As expected, she shrieked in shock and disgust, momentarily forgetting about the bat and easing her hold on it---

Now! 

Jumping into action, I snatched the bat, wrapping it around my fingers and drove its hilt straight to her forehead, knocking the woman unconscious as she slumped to the ground without any further hassle.

“Fuck...Goodnight to you.” I grumbled out, panting and breathing heavily before I steeled myself to glance at the last person left. 

“Okay, one more.” One more and then I’m fucking going home.

It was another man, his frame was slightly wider and larger than the others I’d beaten so far. He stood only a few meters away and I swear he hasn’t moved an inch since the beginning. Enjoying the show? I almost wanted to say but kept it in as I studied him a bit more.

So he’s the boss.

I slowly got to my feet, not taking my eyes off the man as I flaunted the newly acquired weapon to my side, the bat’s cool metal surface feeling quite nicely in my palm.

“Ready when you are,” I said with a raised brow and a cocked hip.

He regarded me for a few seconds, his face hidden in the shadows, before bringing up a hand to his right arm and surprising me by tearing away at the sleeve, the cloth ripping into ribbons to reveal---a bionic limb.

My gaze brightened. Bingo.

While he probably saw me dead, I saw him...as a means of profit. 

A smile took over my features, “That might sell a pretty penny,” I coughed out.

The man let out a savage cry as he shot forward, his robotic arm poised to strike and or grab. I counted his heavy footsteps as I prepared the bat and gripped it with both hands, waiting for him to get closer. 

Once he got near, I noticed traces of a smile dancing on his lips---Fuck, too late---and then his forearm suddenly popped off its socket. Those metal fingers soared and latched themselves around my bicep, squeezing painfully. I grit my teeth, thinking it would bruise later if he didn’t let up soon. 

But the man wasn’t done yet. His eyes glinted dangerously and pulled on the wire connecting the detachable limb to the rest of his bionic arm.

I panicked as I got yanked roughly by my bicep, “Shit…!” Cursing my luck, I tried hitting him with the bat but it lacked enough momentum to actually do damage. So he merely stopped the attack with his other arm and smacked the weapon out of my grasp.

I was being slammed into a wall the next second, a pained gasp slipping out of me whilst black spots swam in my vision, just barely registering the man’s words.

“Where’s that bravado now, huh?” The man sneered, bringing his face real close to mine.

I cringed at the distance, wishing I hadn’t taken off my mask earlier, and clutched him by the nape---then crashed my forehead against his. I knew it would take much more than a headbutt to release me but I only intended to disorientate him.

That small moment of distraction was all I needed to snake my free arm around my back as I grabbed something from the hem of my pants and pulled it out by its handle.

“Right here, fucker.”

I brandished the weapon in front of me and clicked on the switch, the buzz of electricity split the air as the stun baton hummed with power, producing small yet lethal blue sparks.

The man paled. I grinned.

Before he could protect himself, I arched the baton and jammed it into a narrow gap in his bionic arm. The reaction was instantaneous as those metal fingers involuntarily opened and dropped uselessly, the electronics inside malfunctioning. The man himself was in shock, never getting the chance to see the punch heading straight for his nose. 

I bitterly smiled whilst hearing a satisfying crack the moment my fist landed.

I shoved against his chest, pushing him back a couple of steps as he held his bleeding nose, “Y-you...you bitch...!” 

I stared at him, my expression impassive, and shook my head.

“This’ll fuckin’ hurt,” I say to him before zipping forward, baton ready to strike once more.

. . . 

It was the memories that motivated me, helped me get up in bed every single day, the reason for me to keep going and going---because they were the only permanent things I have left in my life. 

I tucked away the stolen bionic arm inside my bag along with the rest of what I managed to collect today. My eyes shuttered as I remembered a rather specific memory: my younger self and my father having multiple discussions about our extremely flawed society, still is, and the people who run the streets, making an adamant point about never stooping to their level. 

If only I knew back then how people, including us, will react when faced with complete desperation and defeat..

It was a lesson I had to learn quite painfully.

A merciless beating and almost bleeding half to death behind some old abandoned factory. 

“Fuck your pride.” They spat and then just left, taking off with my shit. Everything I owned.

That was 3 years ago. 

“Fuck my pride, huh...” I bit back darkly, “Might as well fuck everyone else’s too.”

I did one final sweep at the bodies littering in the alley before running towards the fire exit stairs, hauling myself up and up, the wound on my stomach burning by the time I made it to the building’s rooftop and just leaned against a wall to rest a bit.

Bzzt. Bzzt.

Without looking, I swiped a finger across my wrist.

It needed a few seconds for the transmission to go through and then a familiar scolding voice boomed in my ears, 

“Where the hell are you? The meeting’s about to begin.”

That damned meeting.

“...Can’t I just skip it?” I rasped, my voice sounding foreign even to me.

There was a pause and I held my breath.

“Get your ass over here,” the voice growled out and I resisted the urge to groan in defeat, “You’re not missing the meeting twice in a row.”

“Yeah, yeah. I’m on my way.” 

. 

.

.

“...Is it okay if I’m a bit late?”

“Get moving.”

(A/N: AHHHH, I’M HAVING FLASHBACKS TO MY UNRELEASED TOKYO GHOUL FIC. Anyways, I kinda lowkey love writing action. I swear it’s because of the Cyberpunk theme in this. I hope ya’ll enjoyed this, I might want to expand more on this character’s lore, there’s tons to unpack, so be ready for that! ALSO IM LATE LIKE REALLY LATE SO YEAH PEACE)

[iwritethat]

Jason Todd: Badass

A/N: Jason Todd back in his Robin day’s, inspired by the Titans TV Series to be quite honest.

>>>>——————————>

They couldn't understand it, no one could. There was Jason Todd, Robin 2.0, renowned for his fiery temper and street thug background - which on his own was perfectly normal - but then there was you. Innocent, kind hearted and pure, beautiful you with a moral conscience to rival Supermans'.

It wasn't supposed to be a viable match but anyone could blatantly see Jason had a thing for you whereas you continued to be unreadable much to the surrounding heroes frustration. According to their knowledge, you were an extension of the Batfamily albeit not in the vigilante game but rather an associate and closest to Jason in particular. Origins remain unknown.

.

In retrospect they shouldn't have underestimated you from the start, possibly even delved deeper into why their resident cold hearted Robin was enamoured with a holy angelic soul such as yourself. Regardless, it was too late and as soon as you'd heard whispers of Robins capture echoing throughout Young Justice you found yourself standing before Nightwing and his selected Team within the hour demanding you go with them. Wally laughed, and Artemis immediately slapped him whilst Dick shook his head in disappointment.

"I'm going."

"I get you wanna protect Robin (Y/n), but it'd be safer for you here." West justified despite how adamant you were.

"Thanks for the concern KF but I can handle myself. When do we leave?"

"They’re right, it’s too dangerous, we’ll bring back Robin. There’s too many men to risk your life (Y/n).” Nightwing was correct, his tone more of an order even though you were not under his supervision by any means.

However, the one thing about knowing Nightwing was that he was Team Leader, essentially whatever he says goes - and this time that didn’t fall in your favour.

That's not how you found yourself staring up at Bane with Robin tied up a few paces behind you with blood dripping from his lips - no, you did that by disobeying orders and tailing the Team. It hadn't surprised you that Jason’s reckless headstrong attitude had gotten him stuck here in the first place but you couldn’t chastise him when you’d reinacted the same choices in order to save him. Meanwhile the rest of your unwilling squad were withheld by the threat of your safety - you're sure you could hear Batgirl and Kid Flash curse at your behaviour but you’d do anything to protect the people you care about.

.

"Bane right? How about I propose a deal, if I beat you senseless then we all go free and if you win, then you can do whatever you want." You playfully suggested, the less than intimidating stature you held and cherished smile encouraging his confidence. Even though he had the upper hand, it wouldn't be displaying the correct image to his employees if he turned down a challenge from the weakest opponent out there.

"I wouldn't Bane." It was a cough, a splutter from a smug Robin despite the unanimous glares/protests from the rest of your team.

"Bring it Pipsqueak!"

It was painful for all of them to watch, Kid Flash making visible movements towards you every time you took a hit only stopping himself when guns were aimed at your figure. You heard Artemis and Nightwing desperately call your name as you were slammed to the ground again, Banes hand tightly around your throat as you were pushed further into the floor with a groan.

"Stupid bet to make kid, but you and your friends will pay for it." He released his grip, allowing you to slowly get back onto your feet and wipe away the blood from your nose with a giggle. The villain immediately snapped to you, expressions of shock littered the room - all except the relieved smile of Jason because he knew you better than anyone ever could under the kindest smile known to man.

"I haven't lost yet~"

“Wha-“

“Did you know that you pivot your right foot 45 degrees away from your target when you go for a left uppercut?” Your head tilted as he came at you, performing the perfect counter thus silencing the room.

“And you do not have your anger under control, therefore your movements become desperate and easier to predict. Much like now.” Your tone was informative, analytic and upbeat as you sent Bane to the floor again.

It was like something flipped, reality had been warped or some other inconceivable explanation was required - your movements had changed, now quicker and stronger than ever as you anticipated Banes every offence, mapped him out like a book and within 57 seconds the huge male was knocked unconscious on the cold concrete of the warehouse with you elegantly crouched on his chest with an innocent grin. In the midst of their awe, Nightwing managed to take an advantage whilst the guards were distracted enabling his team to make a clean escape too.

.

You delicately walked over to Jason, slicing his restraints with the male practically falling into your arms.

"I warned him, that was badass doll." Robin lowly chuckled, forehead resting against yours which displayed how grateful he was to see you. Normally affection would never be displayed in front of anyone else unless it was playful flirting but this? This was meaningful.

"You okay dork? You're bleeding a bit." You softly replied, thumb brushing across his lower lip to remove the crimson liquid and looking back up to be met with his admiring gaze.

It was no secret that he liked you, it was in the way he spoke or rather flirted - a characteristic of Robins as you'd discovered but it was genuine, you knew because he opened up to you - whether he had meant to or not. There were the sweet gestures where he forgot himself and the momentary lapses, where he remembered that he was Robin and dating you would be dangerous.

Yet in this instance he couldn't care, because danger was exhilarating and you would make everything worth it so he closed the distance a little further as if silently asking if you felt the same. You noticed, being attune to the way he thought made the whole ordeal easier and you couldn't help the sincere smile gracing your features at the action, taking it as a sign of approval his lips met yours in a slow chaste kiss.

It was over as soon as it got started, Robin not even thanking you as you glared up at the boy wonder before rolling your eyes and brushing past Kid Flash who could barely make sense with his frantic gestures. Artemis' gaze followed you out, opting to comment on what they were all thinking as Jason stood beside Nightwing.

"No wonder you like (Y/n) so much."

"Tch, yeah right. That badass nerd - hell no." Robin laughed, smirking proudly at his brother.

"You literally just kissed-" Dick began, already confused by Little Wings’ contradicting displays.

"Bro, you kiss girls all the time. Doesn't mean anything."

"You what?!" Barbara practically radiated rage at Jasons’ haphazard statement, Nightwing instantly paling at the revelation.

"Ah no, Batgirl not like that I - Robin!!"

"See ya, thanks for the assisted save because let's be honest (Y/n) woulda just come alone anyways!" Before his brother could finish, Jason had offered a salute and disappeared into the night leaving the ‘adults’ to resolve their issues.

.

Later that night, you found yourself in one of Gotham's many local bars leaning against the counter simply minding your own business when a bottle was slid in your direction. You directed your irises toward the origin, finding none other than Jason wearing his favourite hoodie under a casual jacket with a beer bottle in his hand.

"How was your night?"

"I saved a guy tonight, didn't get much thanks mind you." There was a tinge of venom in your voice but it was more exasperated than anything.

"Oh? A kiss and a beer not good enough, what sort of thanks were you expecting?" Jason was sarcastic on the other hand, leaning on the bar beside you.

"I don't know Jaybird, now Arty, Wally and Babs know what I'm capable of. I'm an asset to them."

"You're not, Dick wouldn't let that happen and you don't have to join the Team. But hey seeing you kick butt up close and personal was an experience." He was serious now, your companionship was important to him and he’d never let them use your abilities when you didn’t want part of his lifestyle. He’d promised that many moons ago.

"Oi! What the heck are you two doing in here, you aren't 21!" You both flicked to the outraged voice of Dick Grayson, the male standing at the doorway with Barbara in tow. It was a shock to Dick and Barbara when they caught you both at the bar, underage - how'd you even get in?Instantly Jason grabbed your hand, intertwining your fingers with his own as you both laughed whilst dancing through the crowd toward the fire exit.

"Don't even think about it or I'm using this as blackmail!" Babs echoed, not so fluently managing to evade bodies due to her taller stature.

.

You ran, and you laughed, staggering onto his favourite rooftop of all Gotham - the one adorned with Gargoyles, his favourite perched proudly at the centre. You’d managed to lose the other two more experienced Bats much to your amusement. The wind graced your skin and your gaze shifted to the night sky admiring the rare clarity of the stars, however Jason came to a halt beside you, finding your fascination to be much more beautiful.

"It's funny, we're just a streetrat who needs adult supervision and a misguided teenager who can barely function in society. How did we make it this far?" You mindlessly stated, eyes embarrassingly directed toward the ground as you smiled.

Jason moved closer to you, lifting you chin with his finger to meet his irises before he spoke.

"Isn't it obvious? Because it's us, we're here together despite whatever our connection is." He was so gentle despite his contrasting occupation, closing the distance between your bodies as he went.

"I shouldn't have kissed you tonight." Your tone was lower, halting his actions and you missed the brief glimpse of heartbreak cross his features. However his tone was more confident yet soft as he replied working to hide his disappointment.

"I'm pleased you did."

"Ah classic Robin behaviour." You rolled your eyes, but he sensed the playfulness behind your comment.

"If you haven't noticed... I've got a little thing for you, it's been us as a team for a while that somewhere along the line I thought about 'us' as more. Sure you're no vigilante, but you're my friend and that means more than anything." It was enough, you could allow yourself moments like these to be forgotten with the wind. And you let him in once more, like you had done on multiple occasions before, you let him kiss you, with as much admiration he could display in such an intimate act.

You pulled away, breathless, enjoying the time you had knowing that every night he left could be your last - but for now, you had him.

"I'm glad it's you Jason."

"Me too (Y/n). Me too, until death rips us apart."

.

Little did you know how soon that would be.

[returnn-of-the-mac]

what about companions reacting to a sole survivor who has a symbiote from venom?

So I approached this one by having the companions react to learning that Sole acquired symbiote powers by venom (not sure if you meant venom like poison or the movie venom) . Not 100% sure if this is how you wanted it, so just lmk if you wanted it differently and I’ll make another. Please enjoy!😊

Edit: It was actually the venom movie so this will be re-done once I actually see the movie!

FO4 Companions React: Sole Gaining Symbiotic Powers

As Sole and their companion approached the Glowing Sea, they stumbled upon unusually barren terrain. Assuming it’s desolate nature was due to the high radiation in the area, the duo continued on their way, thinking nothing of it. Suddenly, the ground shook and dozens of hostile Radscopions emerged from the ground. The pair had stumbled upon a nest.

The Radscorpions swarmed Sole and their companion, brutally swinging their stingers in seemingly every direction. One of the larger scorpions managed to dig its stinger into the bottom of Sole’s wrist, cutting through the skin and piercing the vein. Sole’s vision tunneled before they collapsed.

...

While unconscious, Sole’s companion managed to find a nearby medical center to treat their injuries.

Cait: ”Hope that rest was refreshin,” Cait commented, walking over to her companion, “Turns out yer part poisonous bug now, darlin.” She grabbed Sole’s hand and turned it over, pointing at a patch of gauze that was taped over their wrist, “That Radscorpion managed to sting ye right in the vein. Ye got it’s DNA in yer bloodsteam. From what the doc was sayin, ye have some Radscorpion abilities now, like seein in the dark and scratches of venom and shite.” She scoffed, “That’s what they said, at least. Sounds like a load of bollocks to me.”

Danse: Sole opened their eyes and glanced around, confused. They heard a sigh of relief from the corner of the room. “Glad to see you pulled through, soldier,” Danse began, approaching his companion, “I was worried; the sting you received from that Radscorpion was severe. You’ve been unconscious for two days.” He handed Sole a bottle of purified water and sat down beside them. “There’s more to it. Cade said the Radscorpion pierced your vein and injected some of its DNA into your bloodstream.” Sole stated blankly at the Paladin. “Apparently both your DNA and the Radscorpion DNA bonded and formed a symbiotic mutation. Essentially, you’re now part Radscorpion. Cade informed me that this means you now have inherited some abilities that Radscorpions possess, such as night vision and the ability to eject venom from your fingernails.” Sole froze in disbelief, and Danse gave them a gentle smile. “But you’re okay. The mutation is harmless. I know it’s an...unconventional...situation that you’re in right now but these new abilities could prove to be an outstanding advantage in combat, soldier.”

Deacon: Deacon was sitting in the corner of the room, taping something onto Sole’s Vault suit. Sole sat up and Deacon smiled. “Heeey good morning! You’ve been out cold for like...3 years?” Sole’s jaw dropped and Deacon laughed, “I’m messing with you. It’s been like 2 days.” Deacon held up Sole’s Vault suit, which had a piece of paper with a shoddily-drawn scorpion on it. “Like it? I can’t sew, so that’s the best I can do. Oh, wait! Let me explain. Brace yourself— this is good.” Deacon dramatically cleared his throat, “According to the Doc, that darn ‘scorp stung you right in the vein and injected some DNA, so now you’re part Radscorion. Isn’t that neat?” Deacon beamed, “I turned your Vault suit into a super cool superhero outfit. Nifty, huh?”

Piper: “Blue...? Easy now. No need to rush waking up. Take your time,” Piper coaxed. Sole slowly opened their eyes and sat up. “I’m so glad you’re okay, I thought I was going to lose you,” Piper began, her voice wavering slightly. She quickly cleared her throat. “Uh, anyway, I have some pretty cool news to share with you...you ready?” Sole warily nodded, and Piper smirked. “The doctor said that you and the Radscorion’s DNA combined somehow, and you now have some awesome RadScorp powers!” Sole blinked and Piper laughed. “I’m dead serious, Blue! This isn’t a joke. Here—“ she said, shoving a bunch of wrinkled papers into Sole’s arms. Sole examined the chicken scratch and then looked at their companion. “I recorded every single thing the doctors said,” she beamed, “Read up!”

MacCready: “Oh! You’re awake!” An unusually giddy MacCready exclaimed. Sole raised an eyebrow, off-put by their companion’s strange behavior. “[Name], you’re never going to believe this! Apparently, when you got stung by that Radscorpion, you got some of it’s DNA. You know what that means?” Sole watched in amusement as their companion could barely contain his excitement, “You’re part Radscorpion! Like those superheroes, you read about in the comics! You‘re like a real-life RadMan!” Sole smirked and MacCready suddenly got serious. “You have to let me help you pick the name though. Don’t pick something lame. You want to be remembered for being awesome, not for being the laughing stock of the Commonwealth.”

Gage: “Ya awake now, ‘Scorp?” Gage dryly chuckled as a confused Sole looked around, “Ya were knocked out for days, boss. Thought ya died on me. But nah. Managed to find a hospital and they patched ya up nicely.” Sole continued to take in their surroundings. “There’s more to the story, boss,” Gage began, “Apparently that oversized bug injected it’s DNA into ya. So I guess you’re part Radscorp now. Cool, ain’t it?” Gage continued, “So I was thinkin with this new power of yours...we could go back to Nuka World and finally get all of this rival gang shit under control. Get all those goons straightened out. Ya with me?”

Strong: “Wakey, wakey, puny human,” Strong cooed, “It been days! Strong want to leave hospital and SMASH!!” Sole mumbled and rolled over. “Here, take meat. Make human strong, Strong said, handing Sole a piece of Yao Guai meat. Sole gripped the meat with their nails and immediately felt that something was off. The meat in their hands immediately changed from a pale red to a deep brown before completely disintegrating. Strong looked alarmed, “HUMAN! WHAT HAPPEN? TAKE ANOTHER,” he insisted, shoving a cut of Deathclaw meat into his companion’s hands. Once again, Sole grabbed the cutlet and the entire piece turned to foul-smelling mush. Strong was beyond shocked. “Human...human touch deadly now? Strong impressed.”

X6-88: Sole slowly opened their eyes and glanced around. They were in the Institute. “That was a close call, [sir/ma’am],” X6 stated, “I wasn’t certain if you were going to make it back here alive.” It was then that Sole noticed their patched up arms. “The Radscorpion punctured your vein; you nearly bled out,”’X6 explained, “We were able to stabilize you and stitch your wounds, however, there are some permanent side-effects.” Sole listened attentively and the Courser continued, “You now have Radscorpion DNA in your bloodstream. As a result, you will now have improved night vision. Additionally, your saliva now contains highly acidic venom that you are immune to.” X6 waited as Sole processed the information. When he was certain they understood, he continued, “You were a crucial asset to the Institute before this accident. Now, you are invaluable. With these enhanced abilities, you not only serve as a more powerful individual representing the Institute but you also serve as the basis for new research pertaining to the symbiotic relationships between human beings and other creatures. Imagine what the Institute could achieve with a militia of symbiotes.”

Preston: “General? How are you feeling?” Preston asked, his voice laced with concern. Sole blinked a few times before slowly sitting up. “What a relief,” he signed, “I thought for sure you’d— never mind. All that matters now is that you’re alright.” Sole looked at their wrist, which was patched with gauze. “Oh, right,” Preston began, “About that Radscorpion sting...well...it kinda injected you with some of its DNA.” Sole began to panic and Preston put a gentle hand on their arm. “Hey now, don’t worry. The sting was harmless. In fact, you actually gained some pretty cool powers from it,” he beamed, “Apparently you can now see better in the dark and your nails contain acidic venom.”

Nick: “How’re you doing, pal?” Nick asked, laying his cool, metallic hand on Sole’s forehead. “Well, you’re not burning up anymore, so that’s a good sign.” He sat down next to his companion and offered them a bottle of purified water, “That was quite a beating you took from that oversized pest. It’s a relief to see that you’re recovering,” he continued, “And because that sucker managed to inject its DNA through your veins, you’re going to have some pretty extraordinary abilities.” Sole stared at the detective in disbelief, and he held his hands up. “Hey now, don’t shoot the messenger. I’m just relaying what the doctor told me.”

Codsworth: “[Sir/Mum]? Are you awake? Do you need any assistance?” Sole groaned in pain and stared at the robot hovering at their bedside. “Oh! It’s good to finally see some life in you! When I saw you get attacked by that hostile Radscorpion I...I didn’t know what to think. I’m just pleased to see you’re doing alright.” Codsworth paused for a moment before continuing. “I do have some...er...news for you, whenever you’re ready to hear it.” Sole cautiously eyed the robot, then nodded. Codsworth hesitated, struggling for words, “Well, [sir/mum]...the way that angry bugger stung you...it injected some of its DNA into your bloodstream. Apparently, your DNA combined and now...now you’re part Radscorpion.”

Hancock: “Mornin’ sunshine,” Hancock laughed, “how was your two-day-long nap?” Sole quickly sat up, alarmed that they had been asleep for so long. They couldn’t even remember what happened before they had blacked out. “Hey, chill out there. Don’t wantcha damaging yourself even more. You’re lucky you even made it out alive this time. Thought for sure I’d lost ya.” Hancock smirked. “I got something else to tell ya— and I swear, this ain’t the chems talking— you gained powers from that Radscorp sting,” Hancock grabbed Sole’s hand and pointed at their wrapped wrist, “Guess the sucker injected you with some symbiotic DNA shit. Pretty sweet if ya ask me. Guess now you can see better in the dark and you have venom flowing through your fingernails!”

Longfellow: “And the sun peaks through the storm clouds! Good to see you conscious, kiddo,” Longfellow handed Sole a glass filled with a clear liquid, “It’s whiskey. You’re going to need a drink to handle this news.” Sole accepted the glance and looked back at their companion, concerned about what he had just said. “You’re not gonna die, so don’t you be worrying too much about that,” Longfellow reassured, “It turns out when you got stung by the ‘scorp, it injected some of it’s venom into you. I guess this gave you some kinda enhanced abilities, as the doctor kindly put it. If you’re the kind who’s into that superhero mumbo-jumbo, then I suppose it’s your lucky day!”

Curie: “Ah, [Madame/Monsieur], you’re finally awake,” the synth sighed in relief as she quickly fetched a bottle of purified water and some Mutfruit for her companion. “Please, eat and drink up. You’ve been asleep for several days.” She sat next to Sole, watched them take a sip of water, and smiled. “I’m so glad you’ve recovered,” she stated, “There is just one thing you should know.” She gently cupped Sole’s hand and flipped it over, revealing a patched up wrist. “See here, [Madame/Monsieur]? This is where the Radscorpion stung you...apparently it injected some of its DNA into your bloodstream,” she explained, “The DNA bonded with your own and formed a symbiote. You are now—technically— part human, part Radscorpion.” Sole’s jaw dropped and Curie giggled. “Do not be alarmed! It is not a bad thing. In fact, you have enhanced abilities because of the DNA. Additionally, you would make an excellent candidate on further research about symbiotic relationships between human and insect DNA.”

Ada: “It is wonderful to see that you are feeling better, [sir/ma’am].” Ada commented as she approached her dazed companion. “I hope you are well. That Radscorpion was extremely aggressive. After a quick scan, I identified it as the queen. You are lucky to be alive.” Ada handed Sole a teddy bear, “Take this. I have some alarming news for you.” Sole clenched onto the teddy as they braced themself for the worst. “The queen injected you with some of her DNA. That DNA combined with your own and formed a symbiotic relationship. You now have the ability to see clearly at night and you have acid glands in your nails...which is precisely why the teddy bear I just gave you is melting as we speak.”

[hiredhorse]

Sirry prompt: Harry ressurects sirius with blood magic post ootp and they live together in peace. I've been listening to Hozier recently (specifically 'like real people do' and 'work song') and thats just big sirry energy to me :)

Holy four-letter-word, anon, I am deeply in love with you. 

The soundtrack you gave me is fueling a huge project for which I have absolutely no time but, nonetheless, a sudden furious energy. In short I don’t know when there will ever be more, but because I feel like I can’t go another month without expressly responding to your ask, here’s the first chapter:

Now.

Sirius was slumped over the table in the kitchen, the room where he’d more or less set up camp the past week. He barely left it for the other parts of the house except for when he felt desperate to look out a window. It was a little better than being penned in his room. He’d thought of getting out of Azkaban as coming back to life, and when they’d made him go to the house that time, his old room had seemed like the best option. It made him feel like a teenager. It reminded him of his friends. And though the deepest sorrow of his life was tangled up with James and Lily and Peter, all the joy he’d ever known was there, too, inseparable.

But now that he’d been truly resurrected, and somehow was trapped here again, the last thing he could stand was thinking of James. Not that it could be avoided, with his son —

The Floo chimed and Sirius stood up from the bench, his heart racing even though he’d been expecting Remus, stepping out onto the hearth then just looking at Remus. Harry came through behind him, stumbling up against Remus’ shoulder. Remus turned slightly toward him with a reflexive smile.

“Harry,” he said lowly, “like I said, I’d like to speak to Sirius alone.”

Sirius looked at Harry and then was torn between the urge to look anywhere else or to stare at him forever. Everything about Harry, now, was a wave of commingled delight and horror for Sirius. His shoulders, skinny but suddenly broad enough to stretch out the shoulders of Dudley’s old hand-me-down t-shirt, which was pulled loose around the collar, flashing a prominent clavicle. The belt bunching the waist of his too-large jeans tight around a narrow waist that Sirius wanted to pull loose for a dozen reasons, among them the desire to replace Harry’s every article of clothing with the sort of fine, tailored stuff his posh dad had liked and also to cinch Harry’s wrists together over his head and…

Sirius blinked. He looked at Remus. Remus was staring back with an expression of naked rage, like he’d read each and every one of Sirius’ thoughts. It startled Sirius. He’d never known Remus to get angry, truly, even when he should be. 

“I’ll just be…” Harry gestured vaguely toward the door, sidling toward it as though he wasn’t willing to turn his back on them. “Will you two…?”

“We’re only going to talk,” Remus promised softly, but even though he was speaking to Harry, his voice had an undertone of danger that made Sirius want to flatten his ears and growl.

Harry was frozen with his hand on the door. Sirius looked at him and smiled. Reassuring. He didn’t have to look at Remus to know how this was fanning the flames; he half-expected his oldest living friend to combust in Fiend Fire. But he just looked at Harry, trying to radiate good feelings while fighting the urge to crawl out of his skin, to be a dog and cower or run or raise his hackles and fight. 

Harry swallowed, throat bobbing, managed a shaky answering smile and slipped out the door.

“You piece of shite,” Remus said as soon as the door closed. He took a step toward Sirius, which brought him down off the hearth at last. His footstep seemed to echo in the room; Sirius winced at the sound. “You worthless, cowardly — “

Sirius cut him off, eyes narrowing, “It isn’t like I did the ritual, Moony!”

“Don’t call me that.”

They stared at each other. Remus took a step again, this time sideways, his head lowered. Then another. One at a time, slow and deliberate, like he was stalking something he wanted to kill on the first try. Unthinking, as Remus moved, Sirius did too, so the table stayed between them.

“I know how you are. You’ve already looked everything up, right? You know more about the spell than I ever will? Well, then you know I couldn’t hurt him. I couldn’t do anything he didn’t want…”

“It’s not right,” Remus bit out. “Don’t try to justify it. It’s sick and it’s unforgivable, and I should do him a favor and…” His shoulders went tight, and Sirius realized what was going to happen a moment before it did. Remus leapt onto the table and then back to the floor in two inhuman bounds, putting him face to face with Sirius, his wand suddenly in his hand.

Sirius didn’t draw in return. He did reach out on reflex and grasped Remus by the forearm. Remus’ pupils were huge, his breathing harsh. He looked so old, this close. It made Sirius wonder what James would have looked like, how he would have grown up. It should be him here, murdering Sirius for Harry’s honor. A part of him wanted to bare his neck to Remus, James’ proxy in this righteous execution, and welcome a final ending at last.

But. There had been so much cold darkness. Not just in death, but before. Wandering through the years in Azkaban, then Grimmauld Place, subhuman. A wraith. When Harry had pulled him from the veil it had felt like going into heat and light at last, painfully intense and pathetically welcome. Sirius wanted to live. 

“What was I supposed to do?” he murmured, searching Remus’ face for some shred of understanding. “Was I supposed to just stay dead?”

Their faces were close, and he saw that it cost Remus nothing at all to hiss, “Yes!”

Sirius’ heart seized at that. He shoved Remus with unconscious strength—shoved him harder than should have been possible. His body was so much stronger than it had ever been. Even when he was a perfect, vital twenty-year-old still bright-eyed over a new war.

So strong that he knocked an angry werewolf all the way back against the far wall. There Remus stood, arms spread to either side as though plastered, eyes wide, so pale his scars stood out all over his face in dark red relief. 

A little of the venom went out of Sirius. His hands were fisted, and he flexed them open. His palms were stinging where he’d accidentally cut himself with his fingernails, four bloody crescents on each palm.

“Well,” he said roughly. “If that’s how you feel, I guess you can fuck off.”

Remus shoved himself away from the wall and summoned his wand, which he’d dropped somewhere midway. He didn’t look at Sirius, only at the floor as he strode back to the Floo, grabbed the powder and muttered his destination tersely. Sirius stood transfixed, watching the flames shrink back when he was gone.

Harry came in. Of course he noticed Sirius’ hands immediately, and picked them up with a little cry, rubbing each cut with his thumb. Sirius tried not to wince. It wasn’t hard; though the touch stung, Remus’ words had left deeper wounds.

Or had they? Had he really been surprised?

“You have to be careful with this stuff,” Harry muttered, cleaning the blood with his sleeve. “I don’t want to have to give you any more,” he added, and Sirius was startled enough to look at his face.

Harry smiled wryly.

Sirius snorted. “You have a dark sense of humor,” he noted. “I say that as someone with Black humor, so I should know.”

Harry’s smile deepened. He was swiftly healing each spot on Sirius’ hands with his wand. His magic felt sinfully good on Sirius’ skin. 

“The darkest form of humor is punning, of course,” Sirius said, only half-conscious of what was coming out of his mouth. He grimaced. “How much of that did you hear?” He couldn’t imagine that Harry hadn’t stayed near the door, and Remus had been in such a state it hadn’t occurred to him to cast any spells for privacy.

Harry nodded, finally looking up, though he still held Sirius’ left hand. He put his wand in his pocket. Sirius reached out, helpless against the urge to touch. He cupped his hand over Harry’s neck and rubbed back and forth the way Harry liked. Harry stepped nearer so they were fully in each other’s space and rested his forehead on Sirius’ shoulder.

“He didn’t mean it,” Harry said, sounding sure as anything. Both his hands, and one of Sirius’, were now trapped between their bodies. Harry stroked Sirius’ stomach with his knuckles.

Sirius grunted and didn’t reply. Of course Moony meant it. If their roles were reversed and it was Moony who’d let Harry fuck him back to life — repeatedly — then Sirius would have done more than wish him dead. He’d have killed him.

Here was his final proof, if he needed it: he was as bad as any of his ancestors. Worse, maybe, because there was nothing Sirius loathed more than a hypocrite.

[themadamelibrarian]

Dead Flowers - Part 3 of the Sister Winchester series

Rating: Explicit Relationships: Sam Winchester/Original Female Character(s), Dean Winchester/Original Female Character(s) Characters: Sam Winchester, Original Female Character(s), OFC, Castiel Additional Tags: Soulless Sam Winchester, Soulless Maggie Winchester (OFC), questionable consent but they’re soulless, Oral Sex, Rimming, Vaginal Fingering, Vaginal Sex, Penis In Vagina Sex, Female Ejaculation, Squirting, Incest, Sibling Incest, Wincest - Freeform, Angry Dean, Doggy Style, Missionary Position, Hair-pulling, Breathplay, Marking, Come Marking, Come Shot

Summary: Dean should have paid more attention. Maybe then Maggie wouldn't have been driven into the arms of another.

Share this story and show support for the creator!

Tagging: @copperseraphim; @thenanahunter; @lucibae-is-dancing-in-hell; @idabbleincrazy; @truxblooded; @helvonasche

LINK TO AO3

Dean finished tying Sam to a hotel chair while watching Castiel handcuff Maggie to the headboard of the motel bed. Wondering if he should have followed that advice because both of them had been acting odd. At first, Dean thought it was because they were adjusting to being back from the Cage, but as the weeks passed, Sam’s drive to hunt bordered on fanatical and Maggie was, for the most part, so calm and reserved that she barely spoke during the day. Unless she was pissed off and trying to get a rise out of Dean.

Maggie was the first to wake from the angelic induced sleep and immediately began jerking her wrists against her restraints, as she asked venomously, “Are you going to make me call you ‘Daddy’ or ‘Sir’ this time?”

Castiel straightened up and narrowed his eyes at her, “Neither, since I am not your father nor your superior.”

“Not what I meant,” Maggie said, her voice not giving away anything as she continued, “Is this how you want me, Cassie?”

At first, the question baffled Castiel, but he brushed it off. Lifting a single eyebrow, he leaned down so that he could look directly into her eyes and said, “For now? Yes.”

“Knock it off, Mags,” Dean warned from his side of the room as he leaned against the dresser, “You see what I mean, Cas? Her and Sam have been like this since they got back. I tried calling Gabriel, but his ass has been MIA for weeks.”

“Curious,” Castiel said as he straightened up and crossed over to Sam’s unconscious form, “We should wake him. The quicker we can get to the bottom of the situation, the better.”

The next hour had to be the longest Dean had had to endure in a long while. Between Castiel’s interrogations of his brother and sister, then watching the angel plunge his hand inside them, Dean felt wrung out by the time it was done. Neither one of them had souls. It was a lot to take in, that and the fact that there was little to no chance of ever getting them out of the Cage.

“So, are you gonna untie me?” Sam asked from his chair, twisting his wrists to loosen the hastily tied knots holding the ropes together.

Dean shook his head and snapped, “No.” He needed to think. He needed a plan. One that would get his family back the way they were before all this mess started.  

“I think he likes us right where we are, Sam,” Maggie said, crossing her legs and rattling her wrists for emphasis, “Can’t trust something that doesn’t have a soul.”

“How the hell am I even supposed to let you two out of this room?” Dean asked, clearly annoyed at them as he started to pace.

“Dean, I'm not some psycho. I didn't want you to get hurt. I was just trying to stop the vamps,” Sam sighed heavily, feeling one of the knots give way with a subtle shift of weight.

Eyeing his brother, Dean couldn’t believe what he was hearing, “You're kidding, right?”

“Well, what are you gonna do? Keep us locked up in here forever?” Maggie asked, shifting her shoulder to see if she could get one of her wrists loose.

The thought of releasing them had crossed his mind, but so did images of them strangling him in his sleep or worse, “You say that like it's a bad thing.”

“Okay, fine. Look, I get it. I get it, Dean. I was wrong, but I'm telling you It's still me. And Maggie’s a bitch but she always kinda was,” Sam shot back, testing to see what Dean really wanted to hear.

Dean snapped his head around to stare at Sam in disbelief. That Sam would actually call someone a bitch, let alone his sister. Studying Sam closely as he slowed his pacing, Dean asked, “Is it?”  Part of him wanted to believe that it was true. That it was still Sam and Maggie in the room, but without their own Jiminy Cricket to help them become real boys, rather than the wooden puppets he was stuck with.

“Yes,” Maggie said in exasperation, “so just let us go and stop being a dick for ten minutes.”

“No way in hell,” Dean shook his head, standing his ground. This was for the best whether they realized it or not, at least for now.

Sighing, Sam shifted in his seat, and feeling the final knot unravel, “I didn't want it to come to this.” The ropes fell to the floor and Dean cursed internally at having forgotten that Sam could free himself from some of the more intricate knots. Standing at in a completely bored voice, Sam said, ”You're not gonna hold me, Dean -- Not here, not in a panic room, not anywhere. You're stuck with the soulless guy, so you might as well work with me.”

“I'm gonna be watching every move you make,” Dean warned as he glanced back at Maggie, who had gone quiet and was staring at Castiel like she was willing him to burst into flames.

“Fine. Sounds about right to me,” Sam agreed with a nod, keeping Dean on his side was his best option.

“Cas, clean him up,” Dean ordered as he dug into his pocket. Retrieving the handcuff keys, he went to free Maggie. “All right, if we're gonna figure out what happened to your soul, then we need to find who yanked you out. You say you don't know?” he asked Sam, knowing that Maggie probably wouldn’t answer him anyway.

“No idea,” Sam said.

Once Maggie’s hands were free, Dean took the cuffs and shoved them back in his duffel, “Then we start a list. If it's so hard to spring someone out of the box, then who's got that kind of muscle?” Dean looked to Castiel for his guidance. He was the only angel he knew that had the first-hand experience with springing people from Hell.

“I don't know,” Castiel said as he broke the staring contest with Maggie and diverted his attention to Sam, “You have no memory of your resurrection?”

“I woke up in a field. That's all I got,” Sam provided helpfully.

“No clues? Nothing?” Dean asked, looking between his siblings. He needed something to go on, otherwise, they’d just be spinning their wheels.

“I've got one,” Maggie drawled, thinking of Gabriel as her eyes turned to each of the men in the room, “But he’s unavailable.”

.oOo.

Slamming the door to the motel room, Maggie tossed her bag and went straight to the bathroom. She didn’t know where her brother was and at this point, she didn’t care. She knew that she was supposed to, something Sam had brought up, but neither of them could muster the feelings to care about Dean, or anything. They’d found his phone in the middle of the crop circle but no sign of Dean anywhere. It was inconvenient. They were supposed to figure out what was going on and now they had to wait around the room for something that would happen eventually. It was the waiting that frustrated her.

As Maggie took out her displeasure on the motel room, slamming doors and trying to find something to occupy her time, Sam decided that he wouldn’t waste the effort on sharing his sister’s irritation. Relaxing on the bed, he started to think about what could be making Maggie act this way. They were both soulless, and he rarely felt irritation unless pushed, even then it was quickly resolved. But nothing was pushing Maggie. He figured it must be situational, and as he considered the events of the past few days and weeks, it hit him: she wasn’t getting laid.

Sitting up in the bed, Sam ran through the list in his head before he said anything. He needed to be certain, no use pissing her off further by bringing up some nonsense. Since she had come back, she and Dean hadn’t been alone except at night. But when they were alone, from what Sam could hear, they weren’t going at it like recently reunited penguins. Sam had overheard Maggie enjoying some alone time, and now that he thought about it critically, she had been doing that every day for the last few weeks, sometimes more than a few times if she could get alone.

“Maggie, can I ask you something?” Sam blurted, without Dean or any other people around, there was no point in preamble.

“What?” Maggie said as she jerked the pins holding her hair up.

Sam scooted to the end of the bed, and without considering her feelings, asked, “When’s the last time you fucked?”

She stopped for a moment as she thought about it, counting back until her last memory of having sex. She hadn’t been properly laid since before going to the Cage. In fact, she could only think of one time, “The weekend before I agreed to be Michael’s vessel. So, nearly a year on Earth if I’m doing my math correctly. Why are you asking?”

“Making an observation is all,” Sam said, “Just like I’ve noticed it's been quiet with you and Dean lately. Which is surprising.”

Maggie finished letting her hair down and shoved her jeans down to the floor which left her dressed in a shirt that barely covered her panty clad ass. “He isn’t interested,” she said as she stepped out of the bathroom to put her discarded clothes in her bag, “Last time I tried to anything, he gave me some song and dance about the traumas of Hell. I tell you what’s traumatic: being horny with only your hand and a warm shower.”

His eyes followed her every movement. It wasn’t that he’d been oblivious to the fact that Maggie was an attractive woman but until that moment he’d never entertained the idea that she was a sexual creature. As quickly as the idea popped into his mind, images of her bent over the table as he pounded into her had his cock tingling with interest.

Reaching out, Sam took hold of Maggie’s wrist and calmly pulled her toward him, “I think we can fix that.”

“Fix what?” she asked.

His free hand drifted up her thigh, squeezing along the way, “You need some release that isn’t self-induced. I’m bored and interested. All you have to do is say ‘yes’ and your problem is fixed.”

Maggie considered his words for a moment while she chewed on the corner of her lip. Sam made an excellent point. Why go to the trouble of searching out a new partner when one was available right in front of her?  Carding her fingers through his hair, Maggie crashed their mouths together, kissing him like like this was how she would sate the only hunger she’d had since coming back. Lowering herself until she was straddling his leg, she ground her sex against his thigh, feeling the tension build.

Rising from the bed, Sam kept his lips to hers, sucking and nipping until he could hear soft sighs coming from her.  Sam smirked against her mouth before spinning her around so that her back was pressed to his chest. His hands moving across her body until one was cupping her breast through her shirt. “I can’t tell. Is this a yes?” Sam murmured, easing his hand down the front of her panties. The tip of his long fingers dipping between her folds to find her already wet and slippery, a fact that he took advantage of by spreading it over her.

“Yes,” Maggie hissed, bucking up against his palm and gasping at the brief, teasing pressure on her clit, “Don’t stop, Sam.”

Sam trailed his lips down the side of her neck, inhaling the scent of the hotel soap mixing with the smell of dried sweat. With a subtle shift of his wrist, two of his fingers slipped into her opening. Slowly pumping into her at first to savor the gripping heat but Maggie didn’t have the patience for slow. She grabbed hold of his forearm and pushed his fingers deeper, her hips moving faster as she tried to chase after her own pleasure. “Do you think you get to use me like a toy?” Sam growled as he untangled their hands and pushed her panties down her legs, “You got that a little backward, Mags. You’re my toy today and you will be happy with what I give you.”

She twisted around to glare at him. This was a new side to him that she’d never seen before and she wondered why she never saw any hint of this before now. The growl in his voice sent a chill through her that made the ache between her legs grow. “Is that so, Sammy?” she taunted, her surprise melting into wire tight need as she ran a hand over the bulge in the front of his jeans, “Then show me how big boys play with their things.”

He didn’t waste any time before pushing her face down on the bed she was supposed to be sharing with Dean. Neither slept, so the two beds were pointless, until now. She only laid under the covers, staring at the ceiling for the four hours that Dean would sleep. She let out a satisfying grunt as she landed on the mattress. Sam pulled his shirt off and tossed it away in time to land a firm slap on Maggie’s upturned ass when she tried to twist around to face him. “Kitty up, face down,” he commanded as he reached down to open his pants and shoved them, along with his boxers, down to the floor.

“Is it in yet?” Maggie asked, glancing over her shoulder from her newly assumed position.

Sam didn’t utter a word, throwing her a knowing smirk as he sank to his knees on the bed behind her, disappearing from her view. Facing Maggie’s bare pussy, Sam ran his fingers over her slit, spreading her open to reveal the pink, delicate folds. Leaning down, he ran his tongue over her inner lips, moaning at the salty taste of her slick. With or without a soul, this had always been Sam’s favorite thing to do to a woman. To bring them to shuddering completion with his mouth wrapped around their clit.

Maggie couldn’t hold back the moans that escaped her. During her younger days she’d nearly perfected the ability to suppress any sounds during sex but today she didn’t control herself. The feeling of him licking and sucking at her pussy had her balling up her fists in the thin blankets of the bed. It’d been too long since she’d had anything between her legs that wasn’t attached to her or powered by batteries she’d forgot how good it could be. “S-sam!” she gasped when he moved up and flicked his tongue over her ass.

“Don’t tell me you’ve never had this done before,” Sam said as he pushed his fingers back into her, thrusting quickly and swirling his tongue around her puckered entrance.

“N-no..” Maggie groaned the new sensation of her ass being licked open had an orgasm building to the point where her thighs were starting to quiver, “He thought it was dirty.”

“It is,” Sam purred, turning his face to bite at the curve of her ass cheek, “but I’m not Dean and I can feel how much you like it. Quivering around my fingers just aching to cum. Aren’t you, Sis?”

She didn’t have time to answer before the tension inside her peaked and she fell apart under Sam’s mouth and fingers. It wasn’t an earth-shattering orgasm but it was still damned good, leaving her lax and panting against her forearms.

“Don’t go falling asleep on me, Mags. Not done with you, yet,” Sam said, standing up on his knees and pulling her hips back against him. Gripping his cock, he stroked it a few times, rubbing the head against her entrance and slowly easing inside her. Moving his hand from her hip to the back of her head, he grabbed a handful of the long tresses before snapping his hips forward, sinking all the way to the base with a single thrust.

Maggie’s head reared back as she cried out. Sam was bigger than Dean, there was no doubt about that any longer. She could feel him stretching her in ways she hadn’t felt since she’d lost her virginity. Pushing up onto her hands, she braced herself against each of Sam’s thrusts. The strength of which made the cheap bed frame creak in protest. “P-please. Sam.” she gasped.

“Do you like that? Getting fucked by your little brother?” Sam grunted, fingers digging into the curve of her hip to hold her steady as he pounded into her, “Tell me it’s better than Dean ever gave you.”

“Fuck yes,” she moaned.

“Say it...” Sam ordered, giving her hair a sharp tug.

“B-better than Dean… so good,” Maggie said, one hand flying back to try and touch him. She wanted more. She wanted him closer; to feel the flex of his muscles against her, “So fucking good.”  

Growling low in his throat, Sam released her with a shove, earning a protesting whine from her. Flipping her over onto her back, he pulled Maggie’s legs up onto his shoulders and positioned his cock at her entrance, “Beg for it,” he said with a wicked grin.

When Sam spoke she was taken aback. She didn’t even know what to say to a request like that. All she wanted was for him to get back inside her and finish what he’d started.

“I said beg,” Sam reached between them and gave her pussy and open-palmed slap, “Beg, like a bitch in heat.”

Maggie squirmed beneath him, the sting of his fingers against her sex making her body spasm. She had opened her mouth to protest when his hand slapped against her again. “Oh fuck!” Maggie keened, “Sam, stop teasing and fuck me.”

“Good girl,” Sam growled, as he pushed his cock into her with care to take his time, to really feel her stretch around his girth. Rolling his hips against her as his hand skated along her sides until he had a breast in each hand, taking his time to circle each of her nipples with the pads of his thumbs.

The new angle and the way he moved had his cock head brushing against her g-spot. Moaning, Maggie arched up into his touch, meeting each of his thrusts with resistance to feel him deeper inside her. So lost in her own pleasure, she didn’t notice his hand moving until it was wrapped around her throat, squeezing hard enough for her to feel her breath restrict. She grabbed hold of his hand and bucked up against him, staring up at him in confusion.

“Don’t fight me, you trust me, don’t you?” Sam asked, leaning down to kiss the corner of her mouth, his hand relaxing to let her breath, “This makes it better, I promise. Don’t you want to cum on my cock?”

Sam’s cock brushed up against her sweet spot again and Maggie nodded, laying her hand over his and tightening her grip. She had to admit that his fingers felt good around her throat. Almost as good as him being inside her. He positioned his grip and held tight, making sure to only restrict her breathing a little, not the carotid arteries, his hips snapping forward and all Maggie could do was gasp for breath. She gave up and held her breath as the tension inside her shifted; opening up until she felt like she was going to explode and float away at the same time.

“That’s it, Mags,” Sam urged her on when he felt her cunt start to flutter around his cock. His fingers opening and closing to let Maggie drag in little snatches of air, “Cum for me. Cum for your baby boy.”

Maggie’s eyes nearly rolled back in her head as her orgasm crashed into her. Needing to hold onto something as her world shook apart, she grabbed onto Sam’s shoulders with both hands and dragged her nails down his arms, leaving angry-looking welts behind. With a guttural moan, she gushed slick over his cock, coating him from tip to base and drenching his balls.

“Oh shit,” Sam exclaimed through clenched teeth as he felt his sister squirt all over him. It was too much for him. The moment she’d started to cum he’d wanted to join her but had held off. This had been the first time he’d gone bare in any woman and the temptation to let loose deep inside her, but he refused to take the risk. Riding out the last of her shudders, Sam pulled out just before he was about to cum and wrapped his fist around his cock, carefully aiming until he unloaded thick and hot across the top of her pussy.

Maggie dropped her arms to the bed and watched Sam with detached interest as he sat back to inspect her and the bed. She was spent to the point of feeling like a marionette with cut strings. “That was exactly what I needed,” she said with a hint of a satisfied smile.

“You must have,” Sam looked up from where he was running his fingers over her cum coated pubic hair, watching his leavings spread thin over her skin, “We made a mess, well… you did.”

She sat up and hummed, sliding into Sam’s lap like she’d spent years doing it, “That’s new.”

Sam cocked an eyebrow, pulling her closer, “You never? Not even a little bit?”

Maggie shook her head slowly. She’d enjoyed herself more in the past hour than she had in the past year. Being soulless obviously had its perks if it led to letting go enough to enjoy sex completely instead of worrying about what others thought or did. “Actually,” she said, winding her arms around Sam’s neck, “I wouldn’t mind trying again. As soon as you’re up for it.”

Without a word, Sam dropped her back down to the bed and immediately began to kiss across her breasts. He’d just reached the peak of the first one when the door to the hotel room burst open and Dean rushed inside.

“Maggie, Sam,” he began then stopped cold in his tracks. His fists clenching and eyes going hard when he saw Sam on top of Maggie like he had a right to be there and bruises starting to form on her neck, “What the fuck, Sam?!” he growled with barely contained rage.

Sam looked up, the picture of innocence with a hint of the devil in his smile, “Giving her what she needs.”

[otomebois-bb]

Sunflower🌻

(Saeran Choi & MC)

Quick note: originally, I wrote this with the song Sunflower (by Post Malone) in mind, but then I looked up the meaning of sunflowers and decided to go with that instead. I put the meaning of the flower in bold. It starts off as angst, and ends as fluff. Enjoy!

*Spoilers: slight spoiler(s) about Ray's route in the very beginning*

~~~~

"You're useless."

"You can easily be replaced."

"You're just a toy."

"Once you leave this place, I'll be much happier."

His cruel words circulated through my mind like poisonous venom seeping into my veins, slowly eating away at my sanity. I stood by the window, longingly staring at the full moon and wishing that my confidence still shined as bright as it did — yet, the longer I was here, the longer I endured nasty words being thrown at me, the more I wilted, like a flower deprived of sunlight and water.

My stomach grumbled hungrily, and I sighed, turning my gaze to the door of my room. When Ray disappeared, Saeran refused to let anyone but himself enter, refused to let me leave the room, even refused to feed me — however, recently, V had been risking his very life to secretly leave food by my door; a gesture I greatly appreciated even though it put him in harm's way. He didn't do so often since it was too dangerous, but when he did, he tried to leave me a generous amount to last me until the next time he brought food. Sadly though, Saeran of course found out (though he didn't seem to know it was V's doing), and increased the amount of watchful eyes around my room to ensure it didn't happen again. Though his method was successful, I tried to be hopeful V would come back — but that hope was another thing in me that was slowly deteriorating.

My eyes welled up, and I glanced back out the window, trying to focus on the moon's beauty rather than the ugliness of my thoughts. It worked, at first...

However, the quiet sound of the door opening didn't fail to catch my attention since my senses were on hyper alert. My eyes, widening, immediately shifted in its direction, but upon realising it wasn't Saeran, I calmed down; only slightly though, because the hooded figure that entered, shutting the door behind them, wasn't someone I recognised.

I sighed. "Do you need something?"

The person spoke harshly, with a deep male's voice: "Not from you." He slowly stepped closer to me.

My eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Then why are you here? I thought no one but Saeran was allowed to come in..."

He stopped about a foot away from me, more or less. That's when I noticed he was holding something behind his back, and my confusion only grew more. "I'm aware that I'm not supposed to be here. However, you've become a distraction to Mr. Saeran, and everyone — except me — seems too afraid of him to do anything about it, so..." He lifted his arm, and I heard a soft click; he'd been hiding a gun, and just cocked it, ready to pull the trigger with the weapon aimed at my forehead. I could see the psychotic grin on his face in the moonlight as he announced, "I've come to get rid of you myself. If I kill you, perhaps that boy will finally show the Saviour some good results of the tasks he's been given. Any last words?"

For a moment, I merely stared at the gun, debating if it was even worth fighting him to live. My shoulders sank as I decided it wasn't — Saeran wasn't Ray; he didn't care about my health or happiness the way Ray had, so what was the point? This Believer was probably right — with me out of the way, it seemed likely Saeran would make more progress since I wouldn't be around for him to complain about. He didn't like anything about me; hell, he despised my very existence. Why would he care whether I lived or died?

Finally, I sighed, and simply whispered, "Do it."

His smirk stretched wider, and I shut my eyes while he replied with an excitement in his voice, "Gladly."

Before he could pull the trigger, though, someone loudly banged on the door. Startled by the sound, my eyes snapped open — in time to notice the man in front of me jump in surprise, his arm lowering to my stomach...

And a gunshot sounded.

Suddenly, everything was moving in a blurry slow motion. The door slammed open, revealing a figure that vaguely resembled Saeran. Seeming to panic in his presence, the Believer jumped out of the window behind me, the sound of glass shattering and the gun hitting the floor ringing in my ears. I reached down with both hands to clutch my stomach, and when I brought them into my view, the sight of the dark redness painting them caused the pain to finally register, and my legs, no longer able to support my weight due to the overwhelming faintness I felt, gave out beneath me. My head hit the soft carpet, my eyes staring blankly ahead, my breaths being taken in sharply and rapidly. A moment later, I barely felt my body being moved, and the blurry features of Saeran's face entered my eyesight. He seemed to be shouting my name, and I could make out enough of his face to notice the concerned and desperate expression he wore, and it seemed like he might've been crying as well.

The last thing I could remember before going unconscious was the light feeling of being picked up and carried somewhere at a brisk pace — and a single question repeating in my thoughts:

Why?

~~~~

A grandfather clock ticked painfully loud, and grew louder as the image of it became clearer and closer in front of my eyes. Everything around me was shrouded in darkness, including my own body — everything except that damned clock. The hour hand drew closer to the twelve as the ticking continued, seeming to move slowly yet alarmingly quick at the same time.

Finally, the hour hand reached the twelve, and a jarring chime blared out. At the sound, my eyes shot open, and I instinctively tried to sit up, only to cry out in pain and fall back onto the mattress I'd been resting on. The pain flared throughout my body, stemming from my stomach, and it was then I realised my surroundings were completely unfamiliar: the walls were made out of wood... a cabin house?

The only things I could feel was the pain and confusion.

What happened? Where am I?

I was instantly reminded when Saeran rushed to my side, looking different from how I've ever seen him before; his hair much messier than it was the last time I saw him, the bags under his mint green eyes darker, and his clothes were both different and disheveled — black pants and a plain white button-up. "Are you okay?!" he asked, both frantic and rushed.

Oh, right...

The Believer. The gun, originally aimed at my head. Saeran's loud, angry knocking. How his knocking had caused the Believer's aim to shift from the shock, and... the gunshot. Saeran's sudden, surprising concern.

Analysing the little details on Saeran's face, such as his darkened bags and slightly red, puffy eyes... showed that his concern was so genuine, he'd actually been crying and losing sleep (more so than before) because of it.

Again the question presented itself: Why?

Realising I was staring while he was awaiting an answer from me, I hesitantly replied, "I-I'm okay." His face scrunched up, not seeming to buy my response and possibly expecting a better reply, so I elaborated, "I mean, my stomach really hurts, and I'm kinda confused, but otherwise I'm okay."

Saeran only became more puzzled, it seemed, at my words. "Confused? Oh. Right. You probably noticed that this isn't the Magenta building. I didn't think it would be smart to keep you there after what happened; so I brought you here to tend to your wound, and watch over you." He averted his eyes, continuing, "I managed to dig the bullet shell out and stitched up the wound the best I could before bandaging it. You've been unconscious for a little over two days though, and I was starting to worry..." His voice trailed off, and he turned his gaze back to me, a mixture of emotions flashing through his face as he seemed to be deep in thought.

"Uh, I mean, I was wondering about that, too, but that wasn't exactly what I meant..." I glanced down at my lap, awkwardly scratching an itchy spot on my cheek.

"What are you talking about?"

I inhaled, shut my eyes, and explained, "Well, you know, ever since your uh, Ray persona left, you've been a bit... rude. So I guess I don't understand why, after that, you'd care about me."

I expected an outburst from the white-haired man; whether it was as small as yelling at me, or as big as using violence against me.

But instead, Saeran was dead silent. When I finally opened my eyes, I saw why — his mint green orbs were wide with shock. However, soon after he noticed my staring, he seemed to pick up on my hidden fear of him, and his expression immediately shifted to one that I recognised all too well — regret. To my surprise, his eyes quickly watered, spilling over his cheeks at an alarming rate, and he placed his head down, hiding his face with his arms as heart-wrenching sobs overtook him.

"S-Saeran?" I called softly, my hand instinctively reaching out to smoothen his hair, but I stopped myself before it touched him. My hand hovered over his head in hesitation. Would touching him worsen or better the situation? I wasn't sure.

I decided to risk it though, allowing my hand to gently drop. As my fingers combed through his soft, messy locks, I couldn't really tell if I was calming him down or making him cry more. Eventually, he lifted his head slowly, his tearful eyes refusing to look at me, and my heart ached. My hand naturally slid down to cup his cheek, my thumb lightly brushing away his tears. He hesitated before his own hand reached up to press mine closer to his face.

"Saeran–"

"Don't," he snapped, but his tone wasn't intimidating nor rude. He sounded... more broken, than anything else. He sighed, and, seeming to put thought into his words rather than spitting them out, he muttered, "I've been thinking a lot since... that incident. I don't think I ever truly meant what I said to you. I think... it was more of a defense mechanism." He glanced over for a second to take in my confused expression, then continued, "I'm not sure if I told you this myself — you might've heard it from V — but when we were younger, Saeyoung, who you know as seven-zero-seven, mysteriously and randomly vanished from my side without a word. He was — is — my other half; my twin brother. I never knew why he left. My Saviour — err, Rika, told me that he'd abandoned me. She drugged and brainwashed me into believing that the brother I looked up to and loved so much... actually just abandoned me. She told me it was because I was weak, and worthless to him... and I believed her.

"I believed her when she told me V was the bad person. I believed her when she said she'd make me strong if I followed her. Every word she said, I believed..." I was beginning to feel sad myself, and Saeran noticed. He hesitantly held my face in his hands, so gently, it seemed he was afraid I'd shatter into pieces like glass. "I think... I treated you poorly because I was scared you'd do the same: leave without saying anything. I tried, so hard, to convince myself that I was being mean to you because you truly meant nothing to me; but that wasn't true. There was no way that could ever be true. I only did it out of fear; I was so afraid that if I continued to treasure you, you'd turn your back on me. And I desperately wanted to avoid that. But I realise now that what I did was wrong. And I regret it." He sighed. "I don't expect you to ever forgive me. My actions were very unforgivable. But I'm eternally sorry for everything. I'd like to prove myself to you that I can — no, that I will be better, if only you'd give me the chance to..."

At the end, his voice trailed off as he started to cry again, his tears coming more slowly this time. With a few tears in my own eyes, I whispered, "Saeran... of course I forgive you."

"Why?" he asked immediately; but it sounded more like a statement than a question.

Again he was avoiding my eyes, so I softly requested, "Saeran, please look at me." Hesitantly, he did, and I smiled sadly. "I forgive you because you didn't know how to properly handle your emotions. I don't think that's your fault at all — if anything, Rika's the one to blame. From what you and V have told me, it seems like she forced you to follow her every word, to stay by her side and blindly trust her like a lost puppy. You never had anyone to show you how to deal with various emotions in a healthy way — and your past only amplified that. So yes, I forgive you, and of course I'll give you a chance to be better, because I know you won't ever disappoint me. You have so much potential, Saeran, and I know you'll live up to it."

Saeran's jaw was slightly hanging, yet there was such an adoration in his eyes, I couldn't help but giggle at his oddly cute expression. Seeming to recollect himself at the sound, he shut his mouth and swiftly reached over, pulling me into his arms. The quick motion caused me to wince in pain, and he immediately let go. "Sorry..."

I merely laughed again. "It's okay." I opened my arms to him, and he didn't hesitate to embrace me, this time gently. I rested my chin on top of his head, his soft hair tickling my neck, and I let one hand lay securely on his back, holding him to me, while the other played with his hair and smoothened it.

For a silent, comfortable moment, we simply enjoyed each other's warmth. Then, he pulled away slightly, staring into my eyes with such a deep intensity, I blushed — and he only made that blush worse by stating with absolute certainty, "I love you."

My first instinct was to say it back, but when I couldn't find my voice, I resorted to gripping the collar of his shirt and tugging him close enough so I could kiss him. He seemed shocked at first, like he had been the very first time I'd ever kissed him — however, this time he wasn't flustered to the point of running away. In fact, he let a small smile creep onto his lips, and gently slid a hand into my hair (which was no doubt messy and tangled) as he returned my kiss. He broke it shortly after, a look in his eyes hinting he'd kiss me more if it weren't for my current situation; his smile cute and innocent. "Rest up. I'll bring you some soup if you're hungry."

"Please do." He nodded, and stood to exit. Before he walked out, I called to him, "I love you, Saeran."

Saeran turned his head with the most endearing smile on his face. "I love you too, princess~."

~~~~

A couple months later.

With Saeran's help, my wound healed rather quickly. When I was well enough, he gave me back my phone. Upon opening the RFA app, I went through a number of the chatrooms I'd missed, noticing that everyone was worried not only for me but for Saeran as well — which, to my surprise, was because V came clean about Mint Eye and Saeran, and even mentioning Rika (probably because he realised there was no way around it); saying he was only bringing it all to their attention after hearing the gunshot and seeing Saeran run out of the building, carrying me (unconscious at that point) in his arms with blood on my hands and seeping through the dark material of the black dress I was wearing. Saeyoung was the most shocked about Saeran, while Yoosung was most shocked about Rika.

After reading though everything, I entered the chatroom since everyone was present and worrying like crazy — which only increased at my sudden reappearance. I told them I was okay, my wound was healing, and (before Saeyoung even asked) Saeran was also okay and watching over me.

I kept updating them as I healed, and, once I'd almost made a full recovery, managed to convince Saeran to meet up with the RFA (V included) and reunite with his brother — which was surprisingly easier than I'd thought. With his approval, I'd sent Saeyoung our current coordinates, allowing him to grab us and be the first one to see both myself and Saeran.

The twins had a touching reunion when he finally arrived at the scene. Lots of tears were shed from all three of us, and it was difficult to determine who cried the most. Saeyoung first hugged Saeran, telling him how happy he was to see him again, alive and well — and then he embraced me, careful of my still healing wound, repeatedly thanking me for helping his brother escape Rika's toxic clutches, which allowed them to meet again.

Soon after, Saeran joined the RFA, Rika was caught and Mint Eye was shut down, and I had fully recovered from the gunshot wound.

It was June eleventh — the twins' birthday. Saeyoung suggested the RFA celebrate it by having a picnic in a field of flowers since he'd come to discover Saeran's love and knowledge of flowers. I decided to wear something simple yet beautiful — a plain white sun dress with a bit of lace and a nice twirl when I spun. Saeyoung wore a black button-up shirt and jeans, and Saeran wore the same, but with a white shirt instead. The moment Saeran saw me and took in my appearance, a small blush and a warm smile appeared in his face.

Saeyoung had asked Jumin to find the "finest field of flowers you have!" (his words, not mine) to make Saeran happy, and Jumin certainly came through. When we arrived, Saeran and I shared a look of awe, which V noticed and gave us a slight smile — the field was as breathtaking (if not more so) as the garden Saeran had tended to at Mint Eye.

Saeran's eyes instantly lit up at the sight of all the flowers, and, after taking it all in, he took my hand and ran towards it, with me giggling as he pulled me along. Thankfully I'd chosen simple Greek-style flats — they were gold and had straps that snaked up my legs, those and the lack of a heel preventing the shoes from slipping off my feet.

Eventually, he stopped to pick some flowers — two tall sunflowers. He turned, not dropping my hand, and held them out to me with an adoring smile. Taking them with a warm smile on my face, I asked, "Saeran, what's the meaning behind sunflowers?"

His smile grew, and I could tell from the twinkle in his eyes that he was eager to answer my question. "The sunflower... means adoration, loyalty, and longevity. They also represent the sun, if that wasn't obvious from the name. They're known for being happy flowers, too. So I wanted to give you these for a while... because I adore you, and I long for you, and I'm going to be loyal to you, and most of all I want you to be happy."

I beamed. "That's beautiful. I'm happy thanks to you, Saeran." I paused to stare at the flowers in my hand, then offered one back to him. "I should give you one too. I feel the same about you."

"Oh, no, it's okay, you don't–"

"But I want to," I interrupted, "because you deserve it. I love you, Saeran. Happy birthday."

Saeran's face was absolutely stricken with love, from his wide smile, to his glimmering eyes. He leaned down to kiss me, and stated, after breaking the kiss, "I love you more, princess. Thank you... thank you for everything."

~~~~ END. ~~~~