#darius adopted him!!!

[hunterandhisdadius]

He ruffles his hair. He ruffles his hair because while he isn't very good at saying 'I was worried about you! God kid, what if you'd died! I could have lost you' (yet) by ruffling Hunter's hair he allows himself the physical comfort of knowing he's safe and here and if that small gesture of comfort makes Hunter smile bashfully well, that's just an added bonus.

[welcometogrouchland]

I feel like for the first few years of guardianship Darius and Hunter really struggle to figure out how to refer to each other.

Like it's easier for Hunter, he pretty quickly settles on "guardian" for explaining their relationship to other people and just referring to Darius by name when talking to the man himself. Overtime the phrasing gradually warms, becoming "foster parent" and eventually, once Hunter's already an adult old enough to move out, "Dad".

(Sidenote: he doesn't move out til he's in his mid to late twenties, bc he's under no obligation too, Darius low-key doesn't want him too, and the two of them want to make up for lost time in a sense, since Hunter only had 2 years of legal dependency on Darius before aging out of the system. Darius adopts Hunter retroactively as an adult)

Darius on the other hand has a real conundrum on his hands for those first few years. He has a lot of options! But "ward" is too formal and makes it sound like Darius picked him up off the street like after his parents were murdered, "apprentice/student" isn't really accurate considering the focus of Darius and Hunter's relationship has less to do with Hunter learning magic and more to do with Hunter being housed and fed. "Kid" and "foster son" are there...but...

Look, Darius isn't going to refer to Hunter more familiarly than Hunter refers to him! He's not gonna make it WEIRD. He's not a dad, because Hunter doesn't want/need him to be (and also parenthood is scary <3). Darius doesn't know the first thing about being a dad, despite how his friend group teases him.

Eda and Eberwolf are the two who are worst about it. They torture him with how 'fatherly' he's allegedly being (allegations Darius will DENY til his GRAVE!!!) And Eda specifically compares his journey to hers, saying it always starts off with you referring to them as your apprentice (again, Darius doesn't plan on doing that), as your roommate (...kinda weird in Darius' opinion? But okay Eda), or even your pet (????HELLO???). But eventually, they always become your dumb kid when you least expect it.

She's had a couple cups of appleblood by this point, but Darius knows on some level she's right and he's steadfastly ignoring that fact, even as Eber continues to refer to Hunter as his "cub" (kinda cute but Darius doesn't know how Hunter would feel being compared to an animal). The only people who are even remotely reasonable about all this (besides Lilith who's a bit disinterested in kid talk) is Raine and Alador, who both sort of neutrally, a bit awkwardly refer to Hunter as Darius' Boy.

Darius referring to Hunter as "my boy" is funnily enough what sticks the longest before it evolves to son boy. Hunter's crushing it at a derby match? Darius is whooping and cheering, yelling "THAT'S MY BOY!!!" At the other parents in the stands. Hunter is doing something dangerous or inadvisable where others can see him? "Darius, your boy-" "AHH! MY BOY". Hunter, a year into his stay with Darius finally comes clean about everything to do with him being a grimwalker, and is afraid that he's going to go back to seeing him as just an inferior replacement for Darius' beloved mentor? Darius (who has just had to process some of the most bonkers, emotionally heavy information in his life) gently, hesitantly puts a hand on his shoulder (the 'good' one Hunter doesn't mind people touching), and says that Hunter's much more than that. He's Darius' Boy and he's not going to kick him out or get angry or love him any less for things out of his control. It's good. They're good.

Like I said, it evolves over time and 'boy' becomes somewhat obsolete as the two get caught up in the joy of finally feeling able to explicitly refer to each other as family. But unlike "guardian" or "ward" the word never gets fully retired. Even when Hunter is 30 and is arguing that he's more of a man than a boy now, he is still getting referred to by Darius as "his boy", the way some parents never really stop calling their adult kids baby or kiddo (Camila and Eda respectively btw).

Hunter makes one of those corny matching shirt sets at some point for a father's Day gift when he's 17/18, where the two shirts say "if lost, return Boy to me" (Darius) and "I'm Boy" (Hunter). Hunter mostly did it so he could own a funny shirt that says "I'm boy". Darius openly weeps upon seeing them. Like Oh my Titan he's boy. He's my boy. Oh wow

[atlasrainerot]

I don’t usually Owl House post on here, but I spent way too long on these redesigns/reimaginings, so here you go, please take them~

(*but also please keep in mind that these are just my interpretations/headcanons, so pls don’t get mad at me if you personally don’t like them, thx :’)

[crimeronan]

"i will therefore say belos x reader. because i am the reader and i do not want him like that :( that man is my dad....."

help i momentarily forgot everything you've talked about your dad and was severely concerned for three to four seconds as to what you meant☠️

(me: surely they don't mean dad as in. no but she Said she does not want him like that. but why would they even write 'dad' unle—OH WAIT THEY'RE TALKING ABOUT THEIR ACTUAL FATHER)

BARK OF LAUGHTER. yeah belos is my dad the same way eda and camila are the moms of every queer teen in this fandom. that's the kind of guy i want to adopt as Someone Who Raised Me And Imparted Positive Values-

[monstergoblin]

A Dadrius thought

I keep thinking about Darius adopting Hunter after everything is over (Don't get me wrong Camila adopting him is cute too but I'm a sucker for Dadrius) Imagine Hunter being super clean cause he wants to make Darius happy and knows he likes it tidy. And Darius appreciates it but it makes him uneasy he doesn't want Hunter being clean because he's self-conscious of Darius, he should just get to be a kid and be messy. Anyway Darius would have to confront Hunter to tell him to just be a kid its fine. He knows he's a germ/clean freak but that's not Hunters problem. (Of course still clean normally just dont be conscious of Darius standards) And then Eberwolf complaining that Darius always makes them clean up their mess.

[arbitrarycategories]

I’m gonna have to change how I tag hunter now. I can’t believe dadrius won. I’m fucking thrilled because hunter deserves as much family as he can get, but I was so fucking sure he would end up a noceda!

[oakwolves]

Darius Deamonne hate is rooted in antiblackness idc

[loverboybrightsideghost]

mi niñito lindo traumatizado <3

[ryderdire]

Wait shit alador

[melonisopod]

I know Alastor is ace but I just imagined Charlie finding out and being like:

You guys .... I just realized something ....

Lilith is supposed to be Lady Gaga ....

She's the number one trend setter in Hell ...

Absolute Icon, Queen, Mother...

Both Lilith and Alastor were gone for seven years... Probably because they're working together ....

People were all losing their minds over Alastor knowing how to use phrases like "Clout Chaser" and "That's The Tea!" and ether assumed it was "Out Of Character" or that "Angel must've taught him a few things off camera..."

... But yeah, what if being around Angel didn't teach him how to talk like that?

What if... Being around Lilith for seven years, did?

[best-aroace-parent]

Best aroace parent; FINAL ROUND 🔥

Propaganda for Darius Deamonne 💛; The first time we see him interact with Hunter, the kid he'll later adopt, he's rather rude with him, but after reconsidering his opinion of him, we get all of these little moments and hints about how much their relationship has improved and how much he cares, until they actually become a family in the finale.

As for his orientation, a lot of people like to hc him as gay because of his pettiness towards an old friend from his childhood, but aside from one blush, he doesn't actually seem to pursue any kind of romantic relationship with him nor anybody else, rather forming a family with Hunter and Eberwolf, who's been said to be like a brother to him.

As a bonus, his color palette is full of purples and greens just like the aro and ace flags, which is rather fun

Propaganda for Cale Henituse 💛; He mainly parents 3 children (Raon, On, Hong) but also takes care of multiple other children. He is oblivious to other people's affection for him and thinks of beauty objectively and calls others beautiful often without any underlying feelings.

Propaganda for Della Duck 💛; She’s literally the best mom ever (eventually) and this does not once take away her ability to be a character in her own right. She gets trapped on the moon for 10/12 years (sources vary) while her brother looks after her sons and she spends every single day of those years trying desperately to get back to them. Mid season 2 she finally gets back to her kids and tries her best to become the mother she missed out on being while her kids grew up. She learns that she doesn’t need to be the “perfect” mother, it’s just important that she’s there now. She bonds with her kids and is just overall an incredibly supportive and encouraging mother.

As for her being aroace, the father of her kids is never addressed and never even a question asked in universe. Imo she just had kids cause she wanted to have kids, all ready to be a single parent. She also really just doesn’t show attraction to anyone throughout the series so it’s fairly common to hc her as aroace.

[acewithapaintbrush]

"My dad has the hots for your dad!"

Amity can only stare as Hunter slams his hands down on the table she is working at. He glares at her with narrow eyes and a mouth pressed firmly into a thin line. The perfect picture of determination and confidence. 

"What. Did you just say?" 

He immediately deflates at her pointed and icy tone. His hands leave her table and fidget with his overalls and hair instead while he squirms from side to side, eyes averted and cheeks blushing. 

"I-uhm. I read that in one of Mama Camila's books. It- well, I mean, it means-" 

Amity cuts him off. "I know what it means. Didn't Camila forbid you from reading them?" 

Them being the small paperbacks with the half naked humans on the front. Usually a woman in distress with a very well built male, rescuing her from certain doom with wet hair and big abs. The first time Camila had caught Hunter reading one of them she'd almost burst a blood vessel and ripped it right out of his hands. 

"Nonononono," she had chanted and hugged a perplexed Hunter to her chest, carding a hand through his hair. "Those books are way too spicy for an innocent, cute boy like you!" 

Hunter huffs and puffs. "I'm an adult. She can't tell me what to read." At Amity's raised eyebrow he mutters "And she didn't find the one hidden under my mattress." 

He shakes his head and takes her shoulders to shake her a little. She allows it, 'cause she can see how agitated he is. "But that's not the point! Darius has… he likes your dad. As in like-like! And we gotta figure out how we feel about that." 

Amity thinks about Darius. The dashing rebel, who had been pulling the strings of an uprising in the shadows from the start. A headstrong abomination user. He would definitely be a big step up from Odalia, that's for sure. 

She imagines Darius as her father's new partner and discovers that she is more than okay with that. 

Amity is not naive. She knows her father needs a headstrong partner at his side, someone who is not afraid to take the reins in a relationship. Not like Odalia, who's taken that to mean that she should micromanage every facet of his life and turn him into someone he is not, but someone who reminds her father to eat and to leave work alone every once in a while. 

"I approve." Amity says and seeing Hunter's desolate expression narrows her eyes. "You got a problem with my dad?" 

"What?" Hunter lets her shoulders go as if they have burned him. "No, of course not! He's super cool! I just… Arrrrrg!" He rapidly runs his hands through his hair. "I just don't know if I can handle a second parental figure!"

"Uhhh."

He starts walking up and down in front of her, Waffles flying after him with happy little trills. "Things with Darius are good right now. He told me to call him Dad and it's… It's yeah, you know? But it's also a bit awkward sometimes, you know? The only father figure I ever had before… Well. And we are still trying to find our rhythm, you know? How am I supposed to deal with another parent right now?"

"Hunter!" Amity has to shout to get him to stop. She can't believe she is having this conversation right now. "Hunter. You do know that you have like, four parental adults in your life. Don't you?" 

He blinks at her and his blank face tells her everything she needs to know. She wants to face-palm so bad right now. "What?" 

Amity starts counting on her hand. "You call Camila Mama Camila." 

"Wha- But that's just-", he splutters. Amity talks right over him. 

"Eda calls you her Fledgling at least once a week and she and Raine are kinda a packaged deal. Grandma and Grandpa Clawthorne call you son so often, I don't even know if they know your real name. Every time Lilith fusses over your scars she mutters 'my poor boy' under her breath. And let's not forget Willow's parents who took one look at you and had the adoption papers ready." Amity looks at her hands, which have barely been enough to count on. "Oh look at that. Not four but eight, actually."

Hunter looks gobsmacked and not a little teary eyed. Amity pats his shoulders, just a little relieved that he has apparently forgotten about their parents budding romance over this new revelation. She'd rather not get involved in that for as long as possible. 

"Face it, Hunter. You are pretty much public son number one at this point." 

🐦🐦🐦🐦🐦

There is no reason for this except that I had the image of hunter saying "my dad has the hots for your dad" and me running with it

[phddyke]

Ultimately this is how I feel about the situation:

“I love wovengold but don’t you wish Hunter had joint cust—” No.

[catboymoments]

I am so so sorry if I'm making this weird at all but I'm genuinely very confused, is Hunter being part of the Noceda family more of a "this guy is so close to use that he's pretty much family" thing or is it him like, actually being adopted in, and how does that like, factor in with Felix being a cousin? Again I'm so sorry if this sounds weird, I promise I'm not pointing fingers and going "ew weird" I'm just trying to figure out what the situation is because I do think they're cute but the lines are getting tangled up in my head about it /gen

The first one, he’s just super close with Luz, Camila and Vee and Camila is the closest thing he has to a mom but it’s not like a distinct “adoption” “this person is in this role” thing. Darius is his legal guardian and his adoptive father.

[roodles03]

Oh, look! A little nugget and his soon to be adoptive father.

I gave Hunter a little tag in the ear because, headcannon alert, I think Belos did it to mark all grimwalkers. Does Hunter know this? No lmao. Not even as he grew up. Belos did it when Hunter was too young to really remember clearly and just eventually took it out, leaving behind the notch.

I also wanted to make a young adult (20s) outfit for Darius. Btw, no, I DID NOT forget the beard. That is 100% INTENTIONAL. It was to give him a more youthful appearance since its pretty damn hard to give him a even more youthful appearance when he already looks the youngest out the rest of the Hagsquad. I mean just compare Darius to Alador they're canonically the same age yet Alador looks 60 and Darius looks like he's 30. No idea what the fuck Darius did to appear so youthful despite the insane amounts of stress be must've went through in the EC.

Side note it's interesting to see a male character care so much about appearing youthful and staying hygienic. More of this, please. I think one of my favorite trope is flipping gender roles.

Did I make these just to make a drawing of Toddler Hunter and Young Darius?

To that, my answer is- :)

[hunterxreaderoneshots]

Hiii!

Could you make a Hunter x nonbinary! Reader where the reader is the quiet kid at hexide?

Okay here's a bit of a summary;

So, after the events of "hollow mind", Hunter ran away, but instead of crashing at hexide, Darius found him and adopted him, enrolled him at hexide, etc. So Hunter starts to hang out with the hexsquad more, after a few weeks of being there he notices reader. Reader usually tends to be more quiet, and closed off, but Hunter wanted to try to be friends with them (mainly cuz Luz encouraged him to), please make it long if you don't mind!

Btw reader is secretly (not so secretly) a huge geek about science and magical history!

Also with a bit of angst but also mabye slightly suggestive/mildly spicey (make-out scene in a closet prehaps), and ofc fluff!.

Closeted Nerds

Word Count: 8 K (8,015).

T/W: Crying, threat of death, Petrification mentioned,

Summary: Hunter runs away, finds Darius, and enrolls in Hexside. He becomes a student and befriends (Y/n).

I'm so tired

Hunter ran through the forest madly. He raced past blurs and shadows in the dark. The desperate chirping of a bird followed him closely as it tried to catch up with the fleeing boy. 

“He knows I was there- I CAN’T GO BACK I- I CAN’T GO BACK-” He cried frantically as tears burned his eyes. 

A tall figure in the distance turned to see shuffling in the woods, his attention being drawn by the sudden stirring. It proceeded to groan and become an amalgamation of dark, purple ooze, disappearing into the ground.

Hunter continued to run frantically, his mind racing with doubts and fear. Suddenly, a glob of ooze rose from the ground before him, towering into a familiar witch. He screamed, stumbling and crashing violently into the ground. He scrambled up and attempted to crawl away, fear completely taking control of him. HE KNOWS HE KNOWS- HE FOUND ME.

The glob reached forward, grabbing his legs and lifting him up. “Well if it isn’t the little prince?” He muttered, staring at the blonde dangling before him. He waited for him to respond defensively, expecting the usual.

The boy began to hyperventilate, tears pouring down his eyes as he waited for the worst. “NO- NO PLEASE LET ME GO!” He begged, trying to squirm away. “PLEASE- PLEASE DON’T TAKE ME BACK HE’LL KILL ME- HE’LL GET RID OF ME LIKE ALL THE OTHERS!” He cried desperately, wanting to run away. “DARIUS, PLEASE, PLEASE DON’T TAKE ME BACK! PLEASE!”

Darius stared in shock at the blonde as Eberwolfe appeared behind him. “I- take you back?” He muttered. He examined Hunter as the boy continued to cry and whimper. He realized something was off, something was completely wrong; The usually defensive blonde was suddenly begging to be let go.

Darius began to set him down. Hunter scrambled away but was unable to stand up. “What do you mean ‘don’t take you back’? You’re making even less sense than usual…” He glared at him.

Hunter began to cry again, shaking violently as he tried to form words. “I- He knows I was in there- He saw me- HE KNOWS, HE KNOWS HE KNOWS HE KNOWS!” He began to hyperventilate again.

“WHO’S HE?!” Darius groaned, motioning a hand in the air with annoyance.

Hunter closed his eyes, pulling his hair madly. “BELOS! BELOS SAW ME! THE OTHER GUARDS! HE SAW ME I CAN’T GO BACK I CAN’T GO BACK!” He screamed as he shook his head violently, unable to think of anything.

Darius felt his heart sink, a sudden wave of fear and realization overcoming him. The Guards… His predecessors. He exhaled nervously as he recalled the day Hunter received his staff. My… Mentor…

He breathed out. “You don’t make any sense, what did you see? You were in his mindscape weren’t you?” He asked. He feared the worst, only being able to imagine the horror the truth held.

Hunter looked up nervously before nodding. “What did you see?” Darius asked again, waiting anxiously for a response.

Hunter felt Flapjack land on his shoulder. He jumped slightly before turning to look at him. He looked back up to Darius, tears flooding down his face again. He knew about the mindscape- it was him… 

Hunter began to shake his head again. Darius furrowed his brows. He kneeled before the boy, gently placing his hands on his shoulders. “Hunter, what did you see?” He asked again. Hunter looked at him for the first time. He looked into his eyes: they were full of genuine worry, not arrogance or pride.

Hunter swallowed nervously, whimpering again before speaking. He lunged forward at Darius, wrapping his arms around him. “He lied! HE LIED ABOUT EVERYTHING! The guards- they- he was- they’re all gone because of him! He’s- he knows I know, he saw me- DARIUS HE’S GOING TO KILL ME!” He sobbed into Darius’ chest. 

A disgusting feeling of sinking consumed Darius. His vision fuzzed as his knees weakened. We were right… He blinked, confused about everything. He hesitated before awkwardly placing his arms around Hunter as the fragile boy poured his broken soul into his chest. The witch’s arms pulled Hunter closer to him. Darius began to breathe heavily, trying to contain himself as he pieced everything together. I was right. He looked down to the sobbing boy, remembering his mentor. He’s gone now… because of Belos. 

A sudden sadness overcame Darius; This was all that was left of his mentor. All Darius possessed was the power he had learned to control, and Hunter: the boy he considered a pest for years, the arrogant self-empowered brat, the utterly distraught child never failing to remind him of what once was. 

Eberwolfe crept closer to Darius and muttered something. He turned to face his shorter companion, still confused. 

“Yes. You are right,” He pulled away from Hunter and faced him. “I don’t know what it was you saw in there, but from what I understand, you have proven our suspicions… true.” He eyed the boy who was still crying and trembling. 

Darius sighed again. “You were right about one thing- you can’t go back to the castle.” He said plainly as he began to rise up. 

Hunter sniffled as he began to shake his head, “D-Darius please don’t take me back…” He trembled, only being able to imagine what Belos would do to him. 

Darius looked down at him, summoning abomination magic to help Hunter rise up. “No, I won’t take you back to the castle. Then he would know we were the ones who made the spell in the first place.” 

“Huh?” Hunter murmured quietly, beginning to piece together what had happened that night. 

“Oh, we’ll just worry about this later,” Darius mumbled as he rubbed his temples. “Just…” He looked at Hunter again, remembering his mentor, recalling the connection he had built with him. “Just follow me. I know somewhere you can stay.” 

Hunter hesitated, watching the Coven Head march away. He sniffled before chasing after him. “Where are we going?” He murmured through whimpers and pants.

Darius thought for a moment before responding. “Home.” 

The two walked through the forest quietly, approaching Bonesburrough. 

“I never got the chance to thank him- or to say goodbye…” Darius murmured quietly. “I… The least I can do now is look after you. It’s funny, you seem to be a perfect copy of him.” He laughed lightly before continuing, “That was one of the things he was so good at- his abominations. His spells were so intense he could alter the color of abomination. He could creat a duplicate of just anybody! You look like you were pulled right out of him! ” He chuckled lightly as he turned to face Hunter who had become sickeningly pale.

“I am…” Hunter murmured, feeling tears burn his skin. “I’m a Grimwalker…” He muttered helplessly, unable to stop his thoughts from becoming sentences.

Darius snapped around and looked at him. “What?” He asked with confusion.

The young boy froze, trembling as he spoke again. “He said ‘out of all the Grimwalkers, I looked the most like him’…” He murmured.

Darius felt his blood run cold. “I…” He stopped, his mind racing with a million new questions and solved puzzles. “I think that… explains a few things…” His voice broke and his breath hitched.

Hunter simply looked up at him as more tears left trails on his pale face. Darius gave him another heartbroken look before turning around and continuing to lead the way through the dark night. Eberwolfe scurried past the two and ran towards an old house.

“This is where I lived when I was a young witch,” He explained as he joined the small creature. “It’s empty now, and you’ll be safe in it.” He summoned a glob of abomination magic, forming a key and opening the door.

“Sleep here and I’ll be back for you in the morning,” He muttered plainly, waiting for the young witch to make his way forward. 

Hunter hesitated, his ears bending back anxiously. The house seemed sophisticated and elegant despite it being empty for years. It almost reminded him of the castle.

“You’ll be back?” He asked, looking at Darius again. The witch nodded. “You’re… you’re sure?” He asked worriedly. 

Darius groaned, “Yes, now get in there before I drag you to the castle myself!” He spat. Hunter gasped, feeling his blood run cold.

The Coven Head rolled his eyes. “Please, just stay here for the night. I’m not taking you back to that castle under any circumstances. I told you already, I owe this to my mentor- and to you as his successor.” Darius summoned an abomination, “He’ll watch over you until I’m back.” Hunter turned to see the striking similarities between Darius and the glob he created.

“Fine,” Hunter murmured nervously. The young witch stepped inside nervously, almost feeling that the strange house would swallow him. 

Darius began to close the door, hesitating as it remained a sliver open. “Goodnight, Hunter.” He said kindly, watching as the blonde turned in disbelief before gently closing the door and locking it with the same key. 

Hunter swallowed harshly, looking around his new home. It was larger and more elegant than his room, which was composed of scraps and makeshift patches. He suddenly felt the heavy weight of the night rest on his shoulders as he recalled how alone he was, how he had realized that very night he was nothing more than a throw-away replacement. That his once-grand life had been a horrific mask of the truly purposeless thing he was.

                         ⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

The blonde frowned awkwardly as he made eye contact with the principal of the school. 

“You are enrolling your…?”

Darius stood tall and reached his hand onto Hunter through his cape.

“Son. He is my son.” 

Hunter perked, feeling tears flooding his eyes. “I am?” He murmured in disbelief. “But-”

“No ‘but’s’ young man,” Darius replied, smiling at him. “It’s about time someone teaches you how to use magic properly.”

Hunter looked up at Darius, disbelief, gratitude, and an undying appreciation all glowing through his magenta eyes. 

Darius smiled and pulled him closer. “But before you enroll him into any classes, I would like to make a request.” He murmured, looking back at Principal Bump. “My son has difficulty with magic- he was born with non, sadly.” Hunter’s cheeks flushed red in humiliation. “But… we’ve found that through his palisman…” he called over Flackjack who sang happily on his finger. “...He is just as abled as any other witch. Please, be patient with him. He needs a mentor, and one willing to work through with him.” 

Principal Bump Smiled. “I understand. Thank you for being so patient with him, and for letting this be known to us. I can really tell you care about your son- he seems like a very talented young witch.” 

Hunter looked up with some surprise. He stood up straight. “Y-yes, sir… I want to be the best witch I can- and I’ll do whatever it takes!” He stated confidently. 

Principal Bump chuckled, “Well then, Hunter, I think you’ll do just fine here. Welcome to Hexside.”

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Luz shot up in surprise. She gasped suddenly before grabbing Amity and shaking her violently. “LOOK!!!” She squeaked loudly. She and her friends all snapped towards the direction she pointed at. Everyone gasped in disbelief. 

“No way!” Gus exclaimed, “Is that… really him?” He examined the familiar figure, eyeing him suspiciously.

Amity looked from Luz to the figure. “But… what would he be doing here??” She asked. “He… he’s in uniform, too…”

Willow quietly examined the familiar blonde. “And… he seems very… nervous.”

Everyone quietly inspected him. The blonde male carried a lunch tray and had been swaying wildly, avoiding young witches who flew and rushed right past him. They watched as he approached several tables only to be turned away and forced to continue wandering about. Something had changed, however. He was no longer demanding and barking with authority, but awkwardly pleading. He humbly approached table after table, group after group, silently begging to be accepted somewhere.

Luz hesitated, seeing how he struggled to find a place to eat. “Should we…?” 

“Go help him?” Gus asked. He sighed. “I guess so… I mean… I think he IS a student now, right?”

Luz frowned nervously, remembering the night she had last seen him. The last moments they spent together were in The Owl House, in Eda’s living room. He had stormed out in utter terror and panic, fleeing from everything and everyone. Tears pricked her eyes as she recalled what she had learned- what she was hiding.

“I think we should help him,” Willow said confidently. “Besides, he did help us before back when they almost made us coven scouts.”

Luz snapped back, looking at Willow “Y-yeah!” She muttered awkwardly. “You’re right, we should go talk to him!”

Everyone glanced at each other, silently agreeing to proceed. They rose up from the table and began to make their way towards the blonde.

The male huffed awkardly. Things wren’t this rough when I was Golden Guard, were they? He looked around again, searching for a place to sit. Hunter panicked, seeing the group approach him. 

“Y-you!” He sputtered. He took a step back, fearing that they would attack or capture him. “What do you want?! I- I- don’t want trouble!” He looked from person to person, backing up in fear. “I- I’m just trying to fit in somewhere- I swear!” 

Gus perked up, “Woah! We just wanted to talk!” He explained, raising his hands. “Why are you here?”

“And in uniform?” Luz asked curiously. She eyed the blonde, examining him carefully. 

The male cowered back, his eyes darting at each of them. Flapjack suddenly flew onto his shoulder, startling the male. He flinched, looking at his companion and then at the other witches.

He scowled, unsure of what to do. “I-” He muttered inaudibly, fearing the worst. “I- I- I’m just a student.” He stated, trying to stand still. His tray trembled slightly in his unsteady hands. He looked to Luz. “I… decided to start going to school here. And now I’m a student.” He glared at her, unsure of what she would say. 

She tilted her head. “What? So you just… you came here?” She motioned to the building. “You chose to just… come here? After everything we saw in Belos’ mind scap-”

The blonde jolted up, taking a hand away from his tray and waving it wildly at her. “NOTHING. I don’t know what you saw in there, but none of it is my business!" He snapped. His tone was harsh but Luz knew it wasn’t anger: it was fear.

The others flinched back slightly. Willow pursed her lips and stepped forward.

“Well… since I guess that’s none of our business… I think we can set that topic aside.” She gave Hunter a gentle smile. “You said you’re a student here, right?” She crossed her arms and waited for an answer.

The male’s expression softened. “I… yeah… I was just enrolled today, actually.” His posture straightened. “I’m going to be a student here from now on.” 

Gus tilted his head. “What about the whole ‘Golden Guard’ thing? Aren’t you bound to that forever or something?” He asked.

Hunter’s face flushed red. “I…” Flapjack chirped, reassuring the male. He glanced at his companion and then back at the group. “I… I’m not actually… really… Golden Guard anymore…” He muttered quietly. “LOOK!” He stated loudly. “I left. I’m here. I just want to sit down somewhere and eat. I don’t want any more ‘Emperor’s Coven’ business or anything anymore. Darius took me in, enrolled me in this school, and now I’m here.” He admit. “I don’t have anything to do with the Emperor anymore. I’m just. Me. Here. And Hungry…”

“Are youuu…. Okay?” Luz asked, raising a brow at him.

Hunter frowned awkwardly, his fingers fidgeting nervously. “I… I don’t know.” He murmured. “After what I saw in there… I don’t know how I feel. I don’t know what I am. I… I don’t actually know… anything…” He looked up to Luz as he confessed the truth. His magenta eyes poured out uneasiness, confusion, and torment. 

She bit her lip. “Me too… I… What we saw in there was really difficult to take in.” She glanced back at Hunter and rested a hand on his shoulder. “But I’m glad you’re doing okay. You made the right choice by coming here.” She gave him a comforting smile.

Hunter’s eyes gleamed gently as tears formed. I’m glad you’re doing okay…

He scoffed lightly, ignoring the painful emotion. “Yeah… I like it here.”

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Weeks went by as Hunter found his place in the school. In those weeks, he switched classes several times and changed tracks even more often. His inability to perform spells like the other witches quickly won him the same fame Luz had achieved. Witches and demons muttered and gossiped in the hallways of the mysterious, powerless witch; The blonde almost no one knew, the quiet unsociable witch, the timid boy who seemed to belong nowhere.

Recently, he had been switched to a history class regarding ancient magic and spells. He walked in timidly, looking across the classroom full of seemingly bored students. Flapjack chirped, telling Hunter he hoped this class went better than the rest. The blonde smiled to himself, seeing how there was an empty spot for him. He quietly made his way towards the solitary witch. Sitting besides the empty seat. 

(Y/n) hunched over their desk awkwardly, eyes glued on a notebook full of notes and drawings; scribbled circles with shapes within, random words splayed out describing possible spells and combinations. Their eyes dashed back and forth, anxiously hoping to find answers.

“Hey um… I’m new at Hexside and I was… uh…” (Y/n) looked up as the witch before them struggled to speak. “Well- not NEW new to Hexside. I’m kinda new but I’m new to the class and…” He trailed off, staring at the confused, beautiful, confused witch before him.

“I… need to sit somewhere…” He murmured hurriedly. (Y/n) smiled. 

“I sit alone… you can… sit with me if you’d like.” They offered kindly. 

He smiled sheepishly, feeling somewhat stupid but relieved. Flapjack chirped happily, popping out beside his shoulder and bouncing happily. 

“All right, settle down. I know you’re all VERY anxious to begin today’s history lesson,” the teacher droned. More than half the class groaned helplessly, and the teacher shook their head disapprovingly. They sighed, pinching the bridge of their nose while shutting their eyes tightly. “Titan, why did I chose this out of all the subjects?” They cried helplessly. They let out a heavy breath, “All right! Notebooks out! Let’s begin!” 

Hunter perked up excitedly, knowing history was one of his most knowledgeable subjects. The witch next to him perked up anxiously, a pencil ready in their hand as they awaited further instruction. 

“Oh!” They exclaimed, turning to Hunter. “I’m (Y/n)!” They whispered happily, they held out their hand, smiling at Hunter. He blushed madly, realizing this was the first witch who had introduced themselves to him. 

“I-I’m Hunter!” He murmured sheepishly, taking (Y/n)’s hand and shaking it gently. They smiled to him.

“You’re gonna love this class! It’s great!” They explained excitedly. 

“I bet! I love history!” Hunter chirped happily. He couldn’t help but notice how beautiful they were. He suddenly realized the teacher had been explaining something for the past moments. He scurried to grab a notebook out of his bag, hoping to catch up with the subject. He glanced back to (Y/n), blushing lightly as he admired their undying focus on the teacher’s explanation, their (e/c) eyes gleaming.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Hunter made his way out of the class with (Y/n) and waved goodbye as they parted ways. Luz watched as Hunter made his way toward her. 

“Who was that?” She asked smugly. 

Hunter didn’t understand the tone of her voice and proceeded to explain excitedly. “Their name is (Y/n)! They let me sit next to them in class. They’re very professional about their work, they take notes, LOTS of notes, they draw images to help retain information, and they even draw conclusions from their notes and- get this- they’re right almost every time!” Hunter exclaimed as he watched (Y/n) disappear in the crowd. 

“Woah…” Luz said plainly in utter surprise. “You learned all that… RIGHT NOW?” Hunter looked back at the confused girl.

“Of course I did. I grew up studying the behaviors of things and witches. That way, it’s easier to determine who they are.” 

“Well… maybe,” Luz began to sing, “Instead of studying themmmmm…” She put a hand on his shoulder and smiled smugly once more. “You should be friends,” She wiggled her brows at Hunter.

“What?!” He exclaimed. “I just met them! I-” Hunter glanced back, scanning the area before lowering himself to Luz. “I’m not even sure they actually like me… Maybe they just feel bad that I’m a stupid… scrawny, needy, brat.” He muttered shamefully.

Luz perked up, “What?! No-” She paused and gave Hunter a look. “Okay- maybe BUT-” She put up her hands in a protest, “I kinda know them. They’re sweet and friendly. I bet they did it out of the goodness of their heart.”

Hunter huffed, “If I had a bile sack I’d bet it on you being wrong…” He frowned awkwardly, crossing his arms as he rose up. “But since I don’t… I guessI’ll just have to trust you.”

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Weeks passed as the young male grew accustomed to his new life. Hunter walked to his class, making his way down the familiar hallway. He felt his heart begin to pick up pace as he knew what he was waiting for. Every day, he anxiously waited for (Y/n) in the hall, and from there they walked to class together. 

The witch breathed anxiously, hoping to see what he waited for, His ears perked and a smile spread on his face as he saw them. He hurried down the hall, not wanting to waste a single moment.

“(Y/n)!” He called out, making his way to them. 

They turned to him, gleaming. He blushed, admiring their appearance and smile. “Hunter! Hey, how are you?” They asked excitedly. 

His heart lept as the young witch embraced him excitedly. “I’m good!” He smiled happily, his skin tingling as (Y/n)’s hands slithered down from his arms to his hands. “Ready for today’s new lesson?” He asked, barely able to contain his excitement.

(Y/n) returned his smile, “Of course I am!” They exclaimed, squeezing his hands. “I’ve told you like a million times- this is my favorite class ever!” The young witch’s eyes gleamed. Hunter’s lips parted slightly as he stared into their eyes, at their smile. Had anyone ever looked at him with such joy before?

He regained his thoughts, blinking slightly as he realized (Y/n) waited for a response. “Huh- right! I know you love this class but I honestly can’t believe it. Everyone in there seems so bothered by the subject!” He scoffed lightly, “Can you believe it?” He asked, “The lack of admiration for the subject, the complete negligence of the wonders behind the history of magic!” He followed (Y/n) to the classroom. They smiled, knowing they had drawn Hunter into an info-dump episode.

“You know,” He started, motioning with his hands as he spoke. “We’re quite

lucky to have so much information regarding ancient witches and magic. With what we know now, we can better understand many of the things they didn’t understand in the past. All of the information today helps us understand and use magic much better and more efficiently. We can do so much more now as witches than in ancient times!” 

“Right?!” (Y/n) chimed in, unable to hide their smile from Hunter. Seeing him so excited to talk to them gave them a feeling, a small hope, that perhaps he enjoyed spending time with them.

The two witches continued their rant, barely making it to class on time. They hurried to their shared desk, quieting down as they awaited instruction.

The teacher was rubbing their temples, disregarding the noisy classroom full of students complaining. Finally, they sighed, giving up. “All right! No lesson today! Just- do your work and catch up with whatever it is you need to catch up on!’ They collapsed into their chair, a headache stinging violently. “Titan, help me…”

“Yikes…” Hunter murmured. He looked to (Y/n) and the two broke out laughing. “Well, I guess I WILL be using this time to catch up,” He chirped happily.

(Y/n) smiled, “Pff. I have no need- I’m already way ahead of the course! I spend all my free time studying and reading!” 

Hunter smiled at them. “Me too! I’m just going to catch up on some… personal notes for something I’ve been working on.” He pulled out his notebook, flipping to a page full of circles, shapes within loops, and frantically written words followed by question marks. 

(Y/n) kept their eyes on their own notes, shyly eyeing Hunter, wondering what he was up to. They blushed suddenly, I should leave him allowing… I think I make it obvious enough already… 

The two witches shuffled occasionally, a silent barrier parting the two. Hunter quickly glanced over at (Y/n), blushing madly before looking away. Flapjack chirped teasingly, causing Hunter to panic. You like them, don’t you?

“Shhhh! I’m busy!” He cried out desperately. “But… yes… MAYBE!” He flushed red again, looking to the concentrated witch. Flapjack chirped happily and hopped around the desk. (Y/n) chuckled lightly, looking over at the excited palisman. Their curiosity got the better of them and they shot a quick over to his notebook.

(Y/n) shot up excitedly, “Wait- wait- wait! YOU know about the primitive spell structures?!” They exclaimed. “No way! I’ve been going here forever and NO ONE is familiar with them- not even the teachers!” They beamed at Hunter. 

The blonde smiled shyly, the gap between his teeth appearing for a moment. Oh THAT is adorable… (Y/n) smiled to themself as they examined his smile.

He glanced down to his notebook and then back at (Y/n). “Yeah- right?!” He said happily, shifting around to face them. He held his hands out as he began to explain. “I think that this was all before witches developed bile sacks. In that case, they would need to summon magic somehow- and THAT’S why they would have to create spells with glyphs. Rather than just using their own magic, they’d use the Titan’s!”

(Y/n)’s lips parted slightly in complete surprise and awe. “I-.... I never pieced that together!” They said, blushing lightly with slight embarrassment. “I thought I was a nerd…” They murmured quietly, lost in thought.

Hunter flinched back with surprise, “Huh?” He asked plainly. 

(Y/n)’s face flushed a dark red as they realized he had heard. “NONONO- I MEANT- uhhh…” Thoughts raced through their head and anxiety burned in their veins. “What I meant was, I’m just really impressed with your extensive knowledge, that’s incredible!” 

Hunter smiled sweetly. Oh Titan, that damn smile. (Y/n) couldn’t help but smile back.

The young witch looked away, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. “No one… ever acknowledged that…” He admit hesitantly. “It means… a lot…” He glanced back at (Y/n). 

They smiled back, “It’s always nice to be seen- and to belong somewhere.” 

Hunter blushed lightly, unable to help the smile that grew. I do belong somewhere.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Weeks passed and Hunter anxiously awaited every day of school. Not only was he receiving the education he had always dreamt of, but the connection he had longed for for so, so long. Every day, he waited for (Y/n) at the door of the school, in the halls, and in the classroom. A sudden wave of excitement and satisfaction washed over him every time he saw them, and an indescribable feeling of joy and tranquility filled his soul when they talked and shared moments together. 

Hunter waited for (Y/n) in the gym which was being occupied. Apparently, a sudden presentation had been scheduled and everyone was called to the gym. He looked around the room full of students, anxiously looking for (Y/n). Finally, a familiar witch stepped forward. 

He beamed at them. “(Y/n)! Over here!” He waved excitedly, hoping to catch their attention. 

(Y/n) smiled and rushed to his side. “Hunter! What’s going on, everyone’s confused and I honestly don’t know why or what’s going on.” They looked to the stage where a hooded figure stood between Principal Bump and the illusion’s teacher.

Hunter studied the figure, realizing something was unsettlingly familiar about them. “I don’t know what’s happening but… I don’t think it’s anything good…” He murmured, glaring at the mysterious figure.

“Students, teachers, let me introduce you to the esteemed-”

“Please, Principal Bump,” The figure cut off. “I deserve no accolades.”

His blood ran cold. “No- no no no-” He stepped back in panic. (Y/n) glanced at him, realizing something was horribly wrong. 

“Hunter, what is it?” They asked worriedly.

He began to breathe heavily, “He found me,” Was all he choked out.

(Y/n) glanced up, examining the Coven Head. He was explaining something about sigils and multi-tracks. They didn’t understand what it was but they quickly thought of something.

“Okay, just…” They took Hunter’s hands in theirs. “I don’t know what’s happening but stay calm, okay? Don’t cause a scene and maybe they won’t find us.”

Hunter nodded anxiously. Flapjack chirped, hoping to comfort his owner. 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Before long, Hunter realized he had been on the run once more. Everything happened so quickly he didn’t have a chance to truly digest what had happened. He panted heavily, looking around the empty halls. He glanced back, remembering Gus and him had parted ways when they were ambushed by guards. I hope he’s alright…

The sudden whispering of a familiar voice caught his attention and broke his thoughts. “Pss!” He snapped his head in the direction of the whispering and smiled at the witch. “Hunter! In here!” (Y/n) exclaimed worriedly. They motioned for Hunter to follow them into a janitorial closet. The two witches rushed inside, huddling closely as they breathed heavily in utter panic. (Y/n) could feel the gentle warmth of Hunter’s breath, the fragile heat of his life delicately brushing their neck. 

Their breathing slowed, becoming two intermingled waves of air. 

A long silence hung in the air as they remained still, two unmoving figures in the small room. Enough fear overwhelmed Hunter to the point he felt his thoughts were loud enough to give away his location. 

(Y/n) glanced up and looked at the male, his deep magenta eyes glowing in the room. “Why are they after you?” They whispered hastily. “There’s hundreds of students here but you and Gus are the only two witches they want- why???” They turned to face him. He turned at the same time and, for a moment, their lips almost brushed against each other’s, mere molecules apart. 

He frowned, “I should have told you, (Y/n),” He whispered anxiously. “Now you’re in danger! Because of me!” His voice was filled with shame and guilt. Hunter looked into (Y/n)’s eyes. 

“Tell me what??” They asked, hunching their shoulders anxiously

The blonde male sighed, his shoulders sinking. He carefully took (Y/n)’s hand’s into his, the same way they had done so minutes ago. He breathed nervously, wishing he had more time. For hours, for days, for weeks he had rehearsed what he would say and how. He would carefully admit everything so as to not startle them. Hunter shut his eyes for a moment, pleading to the Titan that he would atleast do one thing right.

“(Y/n),” Hunter murmured through a broken voice. “The scouts and Grey are after me because I’m the Golden Guard.” He squeezed their hands gently as he admit the truth. (Y/n) gasped, their own grip tightening on Hunter.

“WHAT?!” They almost shouted. Hunter quickly let go of them and wrapped his hands around their neck and mouth, halting the sudden noise.

“SHHHHH!!!!” He pleaded desperately. The two froze, holding their breath as a shadow passed, blocking light from under the door. The figure passed after what seemed like an eternity, and the two witches finally exhaled. Hunter pulled his hands away from (Y/n), curling up in shame.

(Y/n) turned to face the male. “Hunter,” They called gently, “Why didn’t you tell me?” 

The two huddled in fear as another set of steps marched past the door, followed by the barking of orders. 

Hunter swallowed nervously. “First… It’s kinda difficult to talk about this…” He hissed quietly, hoping the guards wouldn’t hear him. “Second… I ran away from the Emperor’s Coven and now they want to take me back where I will most likely be executed for committing several crimes against the Emperor.” He slurred his words together, speaking quickly with nervousness.

(Y/n) turned to face him again, “And third?” They asked, feeling that he was still hiding something from them. 

Hunter sighed, leaning his head back gently against the wall. He breathed in nervously, tapping his gloved finger on what he thought was his leg. (Y/n) blushed, feeling the male’s hand on their leg, anxiously jumping up and down. 

“Third-” He muttered, feeling his voice break as he faced every fear he had ever had. “I…” He huffed again. The Golden Guard turned to face (Y/n), “I was afraid you would leave me.” His eyes locked with (Y/n)’s, worry and fear pooling out of his voice and expression.

Their lips parted, “Hunter-” The witch’s shoulders slumped, feeling their heart sink. “Hunter- you should have told me!” They whispered. 

“I KNOW!” He exclaimed, covering his face. “I WAS JUST-! UGH!!” He groaned, leaning back again. “I didn’t want to hide this from you! I felt like a liar this whole time. But… I wanted to keep us safe. If word got out that you knew where I’ve been- You would have been just as guilty as I am- I couldn’t risk putting you in danger too!” 

“But-” (Y/n) hesitated, trying to find words. “Why would I leave you? Especially if you needed help?!” They raised their voice slightly, frustration and nervousness seeping through.

“BECAUSE-” Hunter roared quietly, “EVERYONE ALREADY HATED ME-” He curled his body to give himself enough room to turn and face (Y/n). “Belos, the Coven Heads, even the few witches I had somehow been able to talk to- THEY ALL HATE ME!” He breathed heavily, restraining himself from having a full outlash.

The male sighed, collapsing back again. “I thought… if you had heard about me already… you’d hate me too, and leave me alone…” He fought back tears, feeling the remnants of his soul shatter. “I was just afraid of how you’d react…”

They froze for a moment, trying to gather their thoughts. The witch they had believed to be the second most powerful being on all the Boiling Isles was huddled up, cowarding besides them in a janitorial closet. The second in command had been a young boy, one without magic; one without anything.

“I…” (Y/n) slumped back too, almost crushing themself in the closet. “Hunter, why were you so afraid of how I would react?” They asked, longing for an answer. “If anything– I should be the worried one! I never had anyone before you!” (Y/n) exclaimed gently, trying to keep their voice as soft as possible. 

He looked away, his heart racing as he tried to stir up any remaining courage. “I don’t know- I think it’s because I liked you more.” He blurted awkwardly.

“Huh?” (Y/n) sputtered.

The blonde looked up, a stray strand of gold gently swaying before his eyes. “I… like you more…” He murmured. “It wasn’t like the others- it wasn’t just being okay with being near you- I WANTED to be near you!” He explained.

(Y/n)’s eyes widened, their heart beginning to race as they pieced together what was happening.

“And it wasn’t just that!” He exclaimed softly. “I… I got this strange feeling every time I’d see you! It was like… if abomination magic was tickling me inside…” Hunter muttered awkwardly, unable to genuinely describe what he felt.

The young witch blushed deeply. Their heart melted as they watched him try to explain. “Oh…” They squeaked plainly, too shocked to speak.

“And-” Hunter began again, “It’s so strange! My face would suddenly get hot and turn red! Flapjack would always tell me, and Luz would tease me- I don’t even get why though, it’s so weird…” He suddenly realized that the entire time they had been in the closet together, he was feeling everything all over again. He froze, attempting to process anything.

(Y/n) felt their stomach flutter anxiously, their breath began to pick up pace as they became overwhelmed with emotions. 

The two flinched at the barking of orders, huddling closer together. Hunter instinctively shielded (Y/n) with his arm, shutting his eyes hastily as he did so. The two witches held their breath, waiting for the worst. 

The two became aware of their breathing again. They were close enough to have their faces touch. (Y/n)’s eyes fluttered open, realizing that Hunter was shielding them. The bags under his eyes seemed darker now and his breathing more desperate. (Y/n) suddenly realized how horrified he must have been. 

They want us so that they can force sigils onto our wrists. But… they want to kill him.

Their eyes began to tear up. Hunter had been risking his life for weeks every time he was seen publicly. If anyone had caught sight of him, it would be over. Yet he had stayed, ignored every chance of being caught and anxiously waited for (Y/n) wherever he went. He had chosen to keep risking his life- to be with (Y/n).

“Hunter-” They murmured, afraid of asking. His eyes slowly opened and he looked into (Y/n). He nodded, allowing them to continue. They inhaled deeply, “Hunter, you said you liked me- right? More than the others?” They felt their stomach drop. 

He hesitated, his lips flattening awkwardly as he nodded. “I mean… yes? I DON’T KNOW!” His face burned red. “I just…I cared about you too much to get you involved in any of this, but… I couldn’t help but stay with you…” He met their eyes. “I just wanted to be with you.” He spoke clearly, forgetting they were hiding, forgetting he could be killed, forgetting everything.

(Y/n)’s eyes watered, their heart stopping for a moment. 

“Oh- Hunter!” They exclaimed. 

(Y/n) cupped his cheeks, pulling him towards them and smashing their lips down onto his. Hunter gasped, utterly shocked with the unfamiliar action. (Y/n) pulled him closer, anxiety and excitement burning their blood. Never had they had the will to do anything like this, never had they been so willing to do something so despicably risky. Yet their passion for Hunter completely overwhelmed every sense they had, every coherent and clear thought.

Hunter melted, his eyes gently closing as his hands reached for (Y/n)’s. He didn’t know what was happening, he didn’t know how he felt; he could barely think at all. His mind slowed, thoughts and worries slurring together into clumps of nothingness. He instinctively pushed himself closer to (Y/n), his own lips pressing closer to theirs. They gently grazed every molecule, passionately running over the delicate, soft skin.

An eternity passed, and (Y/n) gently parted from Hunter, their lips lingering together for another moment. The kiss ended, and they placed their forehead against his, shaky breaths filling the void of the closet.

“Is this even safe?” His voice cracked slightly, still overwhelmed by the flood of new emotions. “For us? Here? Together?”

(Y/n) smirked, “I’m a wild witch, sweetheart. No Emperor or Scout is gonna stop me.” They smiled smugly.

Hunter smiled, his gorgeous magenta eyes glowing. His large nose crinkled as he revealed the gap between his teeth again. The two witches stared into each other’s eyes, not knowing how close they were to being found.

They huddled in the closet for minutes, (Y/n)’s lips tracing his neck carefully, kissing it gently, and leaving small pecks everywhere. Hunter smiled, wrapping his gloved hands around their wrists, wishing the unknown emotion would last forever. He pulled them closer, letting his eyes flutter shut as he indulged the love he never knew.

Silence filled the world around them, steps hadn’t been heard or shadows seen for minutes. The two carefully rose, hand in hand. (Y/n) peaked out of the closet, a line of light gently washing them.

“I think it’s safe, they murmured. Stepping out. Hunter quickly followed, still holding (Y/n)’s hand. He carefully peered at the world around him, unsure whether it was real or an illusion. The two stepped forward, hand in hand. 

“Aha! There you are!” The coven head’s voice sang as it lurched at Hunter. The boy snapped around screaming as he was torn away from (Y/n). “Oh, hush! You’re making such as a big deal out of all this…” He muttered bitterly, annoyance and disgust crawling from his voice.

“NO!” Hunter screamed, kicking and squirming violently in Grey’s arms. 

“Hunter!” (Y/n) ran forward, being stopped by two scouts as they broke another illusion spell, revealing themselves in the hall. “LET ME GO!” (Y/n) demanded, 

Hunter huffed wildly, “I command you TO STOP!” He bellowed, staring down the scouts. 

The two perked, a confused peep emitting from their lips.  

“Technically… he IS our superior.” One murmured, holding out his hand. 

Grey’s expression fell, his lip and nose crinkling in annoyance. “Well, right now he’s a runaway-” He sang again. “And our dearest emperor wants him back!” 

(Y/n) tried to wrestle away, tugging and pulling forward. “LET HIM GO!” They barked, breathing heavily with terror and rage.

“Ohh… I’m afraid I can’t.” Grey yanked Hunter closer, “You see, he’s commit several crimes against the empire: Treason, running away, resisting capture- hiding a wild witch…” He smirked, looking down at the paralyzed boy. “I’m afraid the only punishment awaiting him is petrification!” He chirped, smirking grimly as he kicked Hunter down. 

“HUNTER- NO!” (Y/n)’s  eyes suddenly glowed a vicious purple. (Y/n) roared, summoning a massive wave of abomination magic, knocking down Grey and the Scouts. They snagged Hunter’s hand, “C’MON!” They dragged him down the hall, gaining distance before summoning their palisman. 

“W-WHErE A-ARE WWWeeeE GOiiIING-” He sputtered, barely breathing as he stumbled behind them. 

(Y/n) swiftly pulled out their staff, swinging Hunter around just as it formed. He landed awkwardly on it as it materialized, wobbling unsteadily.

“The healing homeroom! Everyone else is hiding there!” They swung around again, flashing down the hall and towards the homeroom.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

(Y/n) and Hunter stood chuckling, watching as Grey muttered helplessly, being dragged away by two Scouts. 

The captain stood at the edge of the ship, growling lowly. “When Emperor Belos catches wind of this…” He glared at the crowd of students and teachers.

Principle Bump smiled, “I’m sure he’ll be thrilled to learn that one of his captains was defeated by a couple teenagers…" 

The two witches laughed again, ignoring the bickering that continued. The school cheered as the captain turned away, leaving them behind. The door of the ship closed, lifting gently towards the sky. 

Amity and Willow approached Gus, “I can’t believe you took down a coven head…” Amity murmured in awe.

Gus stared upward thoughtfully. “Yeah… and I almost went down with him…” He replied. 

Hunter raised a brow, “Is Grey gonna be alright?” He smirked, looking down at his companion. 

Gus froze, “Uhhhhh…. Probably?” He responded unsurely, causing both him and Hunter to chuckle.

A group of students approached Hunter, all sharing the same anxiousness and curiosity.

“Hunter! What’s going on at the castle?!” Skara asked.

“Did you actually leave the Emperor’s Coven?!” Viny stared at Hunter, waiting for an answer.

Edric raised his arms slightly, “Have you ever sneezed in your mask?”

Barcus barked. 

The people crave the truth.

Hunter breathed in nervously, glancing to (Y/n) before parting his lips to speak.

A mass of abomination magic rose up, twisting and oozing. The students screamed, stepping back or stumbling away. 

“Before any of you mutter another word," A grand and sophisticated voice announced, “I have a few, much more important questions.” 

Hunter turned around, feeling the familiar presence. “Darius- I mean-” He frowned awkwardly, his cheeks flushing red. “Dad…” He murmured gently. 

(Y/n)’s jaw dropped. “WAIT WAIT WAIT-” They held up their hands. “OKAY FIRST, you were the Golden Guard-” Their eyes scanned left and right in confusion, attempting to form coherent thoughts. “Then you RAN AWAY from the Emperor’s Coven, hid here with ME OF ALL WITCHES,” They looked into Hunter’s magenta eyes, “Almost got caught, took down a captain AND Head Witch-” They stepped forward, “AND YOUR FATHER IS THE MOST POWERFUL WITCH OF THE THE COVEN HEADS- THE HEAD WITCH FOR THE ABOMINATION COVEN?!?!” Their jaw dropped, looking from Hunter to Darius. The tall man smirked, his dark skin gleaming in the sun.

The witch smiled proudly. “I suppose your question may have been… slightly more important.” He placed a hand on Hunter’s shoulder, pulling the witch closer to him.

“Yup…” The blonde squeaked meekly, looking at (Y/n).

Darius cleared his throat. “Now, if it wasn’t already obvious… you young man,” He turned to Hunter. “Are in a LOT of trouble.” He placed both hands on his shoulder, kneeling down in front of his son.

“I know! I didn’t mean to– Dad I’m so sorry!” He broke hastily, wishing he could undo the damage.

“Ah!” Darius interrupted. “Not with me-” He looked up at the ship flying away, slowly disappearing into the horizon. “With them…” He smirked smugly, his lips curling into a proud smile. “You sure taught Grey a lesson. I think that’ll show him for messing with my son.” He chuckled, looking back proudly at the boy before him.

Hunter’s eyes watered. His lips parted slightly, revealing the gap between his teeth once more. He lunged forward, embracing his father tightly. Darius closed his eyes, pulling his son closer to him, relieved he was safe. Tears gently burned Hunter’s eyes, feeling the love he had always longed for. After a long moment, the two broke apart gently.

Darius turned to face (Y/n). “As for you…” He muttered, rising back up and glaring down at the small witch. He placed a heavy hand on their shoulder, examining their entire being. (Y/n)’s breath hitched and they froze, fearing the worst.

Darius’ expression softened. “Take care of my son, please.” He smiled smugly. “I think you two have a lot of potential.” (Y/n) and Hunter both flashed mortified expressions to each other, sharing the same dark hue on their faces.

“W-what?! What do you mean?!” Hunter asked, stepping in front of his father.

The head witch laughed again. “I have to keep an eye on you somehow,” He sang. Flapjack chirped, revealing a small abomination under his wing. Hunter blushed madly.

“WAIT- YOU’VE BEEN WATCHING ME?!” He screamed, utterly mortified.

Darius threw his head back and laughed, “Of course I have. I can’t leave you alone with all those spies and scouts crawling everywhere.” He muttered with disgust, shuddering slightly.

(Y/n) held out their hand. 

“I uh…” Hunter snuggled his nose under (Y/n)’s neck. “I may also…. Maybe be a Grimmm… walker???” He murmured quietly.

“I don’t mind,” (Y/n) whispered gently. “I love you the same, no matter what.”

A/N: I apologize to everyone who has been waiting for requests or for responses to comments. I don’t wish to do a huge trauma dump or anything but something happened over the summer which was just too much for me. I had hoped to be able to start again soon but I was unable to push through. I didn’t mean to take a break this long, and I apologize to everyone. I am doing much better now and have stabilized. I have not forgotten you, I swear! I just needed a lot of time to calm myself. I am happy to be writing again. I’ll start posting regularly again and, as promised, once a week or bi-weekly.

I also made the horrible decision to take 3 college level classes which are not only eating my time BUT EATING ME ALIVE.  I may also start a Psych x Reader book, so if you have any requests for that- DM me! (Mostly because there is a lack of Lassie content *sniffles sadly*). Thank you all for being so patient. I will catch up… eventually. Thank you so much for all the love my oneshots have received. Requests are always open! Thank you! I love you all dearly!