#division commander

[birthday-hell]

Izou

Happy Birthday

october 13

[splosh-crime]

ATLA AU - Zuko Can See Ghosts

Dead people in ATLA either reincarnate or stay as ghosts until they’re ready to do so. There is no afterlife just as there are no gods. The closest thing to gods ATLA has is spirits but if the Spirit World was the afterlife, I think there would be a lot more humans around when Avatars visit. Iroh’s only there because he went in before he died.

Zuko knows why his mother left because Grandfather Azulon is still there as a ghost to tell him Ursa poisoned him to save Zuko’s life. He was going to haunt Ursa until he realized Zuko could see him and haunted him instead. Surprise, surprise, the guy who ordered the death of his grandson is a dick.

There are many servants dead by Ozai’s wrath in the palace. Their ghosts teach Zuko to stay quiet and fade into the background where it’s safe.

When Lu Ten dies, he regrets that he wasn’t able to save his young cousins from Ozai. Lu Ten stays a ghost and mentors Zuko in combat, bending, and strategy.

When the 41st Division die despite Zuko’s protests, and Zuko himself is burned and banished, the 41st Division find out Zuko defended them and stay ghosts to teach him all they can.

Zuko’s able to escape before the pirates hired by Zhao blow up his ship because the ghosts haunting the pirates warn him. This doesn’t change the plot, but it does save Zuko some pain.

Aang is followed/haunted by Monk Gyatso while Sokka & Katara are followed/haunted by Kya.

[xamaxenta]

🎉🎉🎉HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY DARLIGNT SWEETHEART 🎉🎉🎉

I didnt know what to draw for your bday so I drew every single thought I had in one go

Here’s to another year simping in your name ❤️‍🔥

[gazumirei]

fuck it

Here's a bunch of things I'm interested in/things that inspired my art style

[calico-cheriies]

Hideaway |Soshiro Hoshina x Reader Fanfic|

{Chapter one}

{Masterlist}

{Hideaway Masterlist}

"I want you right here by my side, cuz' I'm dying to see your face. You act like it's something to hideaway,"

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

There it is again.

You could feel your hand slowly travel up to the collar of the lab coat, you pulled at the piece of fabric, trying to find some form of breathing room in the suffocating moment. You had done many practices before with this, that's what the schooling was for... so why did you feel squeamish this time? You turned your back away from the rather gruesome sight, you were somewhat a doctor but more of a forensic pathologist, so you dealt with the aftermath of what happened to those unlucky officers that met their demise with the kaiju's. You shuddered at the thought of meeting such fate, they were monsters who just ravaged cities and took the lives of innocent people, and the officers were just human shields that were trying to protect the people.

You quickly dug through the cabinets in search of a mask. You placed the strings behind your ears and adjusted it, it was one of those late night attacks that the third division had to take care of. You threw on the blue surgical scrub suit and you dug through the box of the gloves to pull over your hands, stretching the glove to go over your hand and up to your wrist. You already had put your hair up and you placed a surgical cap to make sure nothing would entangled into your hair. You finished dressing your up and your ears perked up at the sound of the rustling outside the room, it was at the deepest level of the building due to the grim aura that emitted. You were sure that it was just doctors or nurses working with others to bring the dead down to the morgue until you or your other colleagues could get to them.

Now it was time to get to work, you ignored the continued hectic rustling outside from the attack and you quickly got to work so you could start working on the report you would later write and unfortunately deliver to the families of the victims. You usually let your thoughts wander while you worked, you didn't want to focus too much on the cutting of the bodies and imagining what their last moments looked like. No- you liked to imagine of what the world could be if there was no kaiju. You would've for sure gotten another job, probably something less grim than this...you would have loved to do something in gardening or owning some kind of shop that allowed you to build personal connections. But those were useless dreams in this world- not when the population kept decreasing and the kaiju kept increasing.

You hadn't realized how much time had passed as you kept day dreaming and taking note of the details you gathered. It was the same thing over and over again, the same repeating details that indicted a quick and violent death. You knew you still had a handful to take care of as your other peers did, each body required clean and precise cuts so no major damage was added. Each division had a few forensic pathologists on hand since the attacks could lead to big numbers and it was easy for them to get their hands full.

You kept working, pulling in one after another to try and get through the night. That was the worst time the attacks could've happened, especially since they were picking up as each day passes. Soon they were able to lower the numbers as the hours passed, and you slumped against the counter of the room, your hands slightly shaking from the exhaustion of the repeating cuts and jotting down of notes. You took in a moment to relish the silence that was now prominent, there was no shouts or loud voices nor was there any sounds of life outside of the room. You had already stitched every organ back , or at least of what was left and did your best to try and make the body look someone presentable so the mortician could do their job properly. You placed a cover over the body before rolling the body back to the proper place so it could be transferred to the funeral home.

Now it was time to try and get a little bit of rest, at least after you properly showered. You slowly opened the door and took a peek outside, it was empty and the lights were dim for the night. You made sure not a single person or colleague was around to see you in such a state, so you had rushed to remove the entire attire you were wearing to had some unpleasant splatters from the work. You took a quick glance in the reflection of the windows that you passed by, your hair was messy and unkempt and it stuck to your forehead due to some sweat you accumulated. You didn't want to imagine the lingering smell that probably was coming off of you, the thought was enough to embarrass you to the core.

You quickly rushed through the halls and you rather have taken the stairs up to the top to avoid any interactions with the officers that could have been wandering around from the recent events in the elevators. You wanted to get a few hours of sleep to try and present the reports to your superiors. Of course you never really interacted with them unless it was for work which was just reports.

That's how you liked it.

What you didn't appreciate was colliding with a wall- was the exhaustion finally coming down on you?

It wasn't a wall,

But a man...a really strong man.

You stumbled back, your hands flailing out a bit as you dropped the manila folder with your notes down to the ground. Your back hitting the actual wall this time and your hands were plastered flat against the wall to stable yourself from the forceful contact. A gasp leaving your lips as the person stumbled back only a few steps, you  snapped your head up and squinted to see who you bumped into. The first notable thing was the violet hair that was shaped into a decently bowl cut, and his eyes- they were violet as well. It was beautiful if it wasn't so late at night and when you were in this condition, how embarrassing!

"Yer alright?" Was the first thing the vice commander asked after the initial shock died down, and your  breathing was slightly heavy once you finally responded. "Y...yeah, I'm sorry Vice captain," you were quick to apologize and you dropped to your knees to pick up the thick Manila folder, you cursed under your breath as your hands clumsily picked up the file and you leaned onto the wall for support to pick yourself up. "I hope I'm not bothering you, please have a good night," you bowed your head for a moment, your cheeks reddening as you realized how disgusting you probably looked to him, you were quick to try and walk past him on the other side of the wall.

"Aye," he called out, he found the clumsy girl to be amusing and almost adorable in the way you seemed to try and stay away from him. "Thanks... for what yer do, take care Miss (Y/n)," the way he drawled out your name was enough to make your chest tighten. Seriously- when did you start to enjoy the little accents? Maybe it's was because he was so attractive...?

Your response was just a small squeak, it's like you tried to hum but it came out too high pitch so you just sped up your pace and shut the door once you reached the end of the hall. You wanted to just collapse and curl up until you disappeared from the face of the earth, and you prayed you would never have to see his face again and that your schedule would never align again. That's how it's been for the past while, so this should never happen again.

You failed to realize the vice captain looking back over his shoulder as you left, a small smirk making its way onto his lips as he vowed he would corner you again, as a good vice captain, he should know his colleagues well, right?

{Chapter Two}

—————————————————

[mallomars]

One piece

This is the awakened form of the Mera Mera no mi.

[monocub]

you think dadan would have dressed up as santa and gifted the asl boys coal for christmas and those little assholes would've complained and started throwing it at her

[sabo-has-my-heart]

Hey there! Hope everything's going great

Sooo I had a request:

I had this thought about what if s/o and op men had a little argument on something and they decide to give silent treatment to each other for a while, they still do stuff together like going shopping for stuff with the crew but this little incident happens where a guy flirts with s/o infront of their partner and she (yep female s/o) says she's single XD

Like a headcanon on how they would react to this? It can be a funny one

I'd specifically like sabo, law, zoro and coby for this!

Thank youuuu so muchhhh if you'll do this take care! ^^ ♡

I included Ace in this as well because I love him. Sabo, Law, Zoro, Koby, Ace.

Warnings:��arguments, threats, almost violence, heartbreak, hurt/comfort,

Word Count:1720

     Your fights never got this bad, never got out of control like this. Normally, you were able to work it out, or at least take some time to cool down first. But you’d both been in a bad mood, both said things you shouldn’t have, both been rather stupid to be honest. It should have been a minor argument, should have been simple grumbling followed by comforting hugs and cuddles, maybe a nap. Instead, it had ended up with you both storming off in an even worse mood than you’d already been in, it had ended with you both giving each other the silent treatment, and with extremely high tensions whenever you were together. Few, if any, of your friends said anything, not wanting to get caught up in your fight or be on the receiving end of your wrath, but the tension was getting uncomfortable… well, more uncomfortable. A simple shopping trip with the others, that’s all it was. Get some supplies, look around, it wouldn’t be the two of you alone, so it’s not like it would be uncomfortable silence the entire way, you could both talk to someone who wasn’t each other. It had been while you’d been in a clothing shop, looking at various clothes that he approached you. Tall, handsome, with a gorgeous smile.

     “Hey there, beautiful. Noticed you looking at these. If I may be so bold, I think this would look much better on you.” he said, holding out a beautiful dress. Running your fingers over the fabric, you smiled, you did look good in this color, maybe it was worth at least trying on.

     “Tell me how I look?” you asked, taking the dress, the man following you towards the dressing rooms. As soon as you stepped out, the man was taking your hand, kissing the back before helping give you a little spin.

     “You look dazzling. I was wondering, if a beautiful woman like you would perhaps join me for dinner? That is, unless you’re already taken.” he said, giving you another thousand watt smile. You hesitated for a moment. The two of you hadn’t talked in well over a week, or had it been longer? You were both too busy fuming to keep track, still stubbornly refusing to talk to each other.

     “No, I’m single and I’d love to accompany you.” you said with a soft smile.

Sabo

Head immediately whips around to look at you.

Heartbroken and angry.

Single? Was this your way of breaking up with him?

Immediately marches over, tells the guy you’re actually taken and then drags you away.

Pulls you somewhere secluded so you can talk.

Totally pins you to the wall.

Calls you both stubborn and says that the fight was stupid.

He’s angry because of the guy but he’s also super scared of losing you.

Pulls you close and holds you, telling you you’re his and that he won’t let some stupid fight change that.

If you don’t apologize for the fight or want to break up, his heart will 100% shatter.

He’s lost enough, you were the ray of sunshine in his life, he can’t lose you too.

Doesn’t actually say anything though, just walks away.

You can’t tell if he’s angry or sad from the way he leaves.

Won’t talk to anyone unless necessary for days and completely avoids you.

So, so heartbroken, absolutely cries when he’s alone.

Thinks he has to be strong for the Revolutionary Army though, so will put on a smile around others.

If you both apologize.

Refuses to let you go after that, if you let him, he’ll absolutely carry you everywhere, but if you don’t, he won’t let go of your hand. At. All. 

Super possessive all day.

Pulls you into his room to sleep with you. 

I hope you don’t have to get up in the middle of the night, because he won’t let you go.

Seriously, wrapped completely around you, holding you tight, you just are not going anywhere.

Steals or buys all sorts of gifts for you. Anything he thinks you might like. 

Even if you’re both at fault, he’s trying so hard to make up for the fight.

Law

Excuse me, what?

Straight up shambles the guy away, like as far as his room will allow. 

Super duper pissed.

Demands to know why you said you were single.

If you say that you’re breaking up with him, his heart will break. 

Not even kidding, will storm off to the Polar Tang, lock himself in his room and cry. 

If you say someting like ‘he was acting like you weren’t together anymore’, he’ll freeze up

Had he really been that stubborn and stupid?

Shambles you both back to the ship and holds you close.

Tells you that he can’t lose you.

Surprisingly sweet. Is this really your Law? Because he’s being way too affectionate.

Absolutely makes it up to you. Takes you back out shopping, if you so much as look at something with vague interest, he’ll either buy it or steal it for you.

Takes you out to a very nice (secluded) dinner that night. Holds you close all night, like, I hope you don’t mind sleeping in his bed with his arms wrapped around you, because it will happen.

Doesn’t let you out of his sight the entire time you’re docked.

Zoro

Almost slices the entire store (and the guy) into pieces.

You’re WHAT?

So, so, so angry.

Also scared, though he won’t admit it.

Scares the guy away.

Picks you up, throws you over his shoulder, and takes you back to the Sunny.

You can’t tell if he’s more angry or hurt as he looks at you.

Simply states that you’re his.

If you tell him you aren’t and that you’re breaking up with him.

Just storms off.

Goes to his gym and starts working out to try and blow off some steam.

Spends an unusual amount of time in the gym from now on. 

Can’t look at you because it hurts too much. 

Still totally loves you.

He doesn’t even insult Sanji for days.

If you forgive him.

Wraps his arms around you and holds you close.

Just stays like that for a while.

Keeps an arm wrapped around you all day as you go shopping.

In so much debt to Nami now because he borrowed so much money.

Isn’t able to buy you everything you look at, but if you express any sort of desire over it, he’ll buy it.

Keeps you close for weeks. He’s training? Well, I hope you wanted to watch him work out. He’s taking a nap? You’re taking a nap too. 

I hope you don’t mind sleeping in the boy’s dorm because Nami absolutely will not let him sleep in the girl’s dorm.  

Koby

Immediately rushes over to you.

Are you serious? Does this mean you’re breaking up with him? He’s so, so, so, so sorry.

Completely ignoring the guy as he takes your hands in his.

Eyes are so hurt and scared and a little desperate. 

Begs you to forgive him.

If you break up with him.

Absolutely starts tearing up then and there.

Quietly walks away as he starts crying. Returns to his room and starts sobbing. 

Beats himself up for getting into the fight in the first place. 

SO different from his usual self!

Just super quiet and downcast. 

It’s like he reverted back to when he was working for Alvida but without the hope for something better.

His rank and abilities totally suffer because of how heartbroken he is.

Like, everyone is wondering, is this really the same Captain Koby?

Does eventually, sort of bounce back, but is super focused on only work.

If you forgive him.

Clings to you, just wrapps you in a huge hug, apologizing over and over.

Still crying a little but so, so relieved. 

Buys. You. Everything!

Seriously, I hope you plan to look at the ground the entire time, because if you even glance at it, he’s buying it, trying to make things up to you.

Even if he knows it’s both of your faults, he doesn’t care, he feels like he needs to apologize and make it up to you. 

Spoils you rotten for weeks.

A little meek around you for a bit, but does perk up and return to normal after a bit. 

Cuddles with you whenever possible. Like, if he has even a minute to spare, he’s got his arms wrapped around you. 

Ace

Literally lights on fire as he stalks over to the man.

Almost lights the guy on fire.

Not sure who to feel more sorry for. Ace for feeling so scared and heartbroken or the man for being so terrified.

Pulls you away immediately. 

As soon as your somewhere secluded, he wraps his arms around you and doesn’t let go.

Apologizing over and over.

Please don’t leave him, he’ll do anything, whatever you ask.

If you don’t forgive him. Stands there in stunned silence while you walk away. 

100% crying.

So, so despondent as he walks back to the Moby Dick. 

Locks himself in his cabin, refuses to come out.

Barely eats and Thatch has to deliver it to Ace because Ace won’t come out. 

Nobody hears his sobbing, but it’s a miracle he doesn’t die of dehydration. 

You were the best thing to happen to him.

You think he was depressed over his past before?

1000x worse now.

Absolutely thinks he’s trash for losing you.

Doesn’t necessarily bounce back, but returns to his commander duties again.

If you forgive him.

Holding you even tighter.

Can’t stop himself from crying into your shoulder.

So, so scared he was going to lose you.

Once he manages to gather himself together again, he takes you back to the ship. 

He doesn’t buy you everything but that’s because he just wants to hold you.

You spend the entire week simply cuddling with him. 

Will not let you go. Eating dinner? You’re in his lap. Sleeping? He’s holding you tightly like a teddy bear. Just relaxing? He’s cuddled up with you.

I hope you don’t need to train, because he won’t let you go long enough to do so.

Whitebeard eventually has to order him to return to him commander duties because he’s so busy clinging to you.

[apiratefellinlovewithastar]

this is your daily reminder that I love him with all my heart

[straws-and-sunflowers]

Angst. Not Lawlu, just angst.

[zorossugarmama]

Pops! Can I just hide behind you?

Whitebeard & Whitebeard Pirate Reader Drabble

You pulled a prank, now you're running through the Moby trying to get away from your assailant-- Pops helps.

Word Count: 500

You were sprinting across the main deck of the Moby, your assassin lost for now. You scanned the deck for a place to hide and when your eyes landed on you large and fierce looking Captain an idea sprung to mind. Today he was wearing a yukata and dawned it with a satin white shawl. His halberd, which was sitting across his lap, a sign that he was actually on duty today. Pivoting your direction you sprinted towards his looming figure. Seeing your hasty speed he looked down at you with a questioning gaze. You pulled a cheeky smile across your face as you fiddled with your fingers. This was the only place that you could think of where your assassin wouldn’t find you. 

“What do you want, brat?” He boomed as a small smirk pulled across his face.

“Can I just–” you wanted to ask, but you also didn’t want to burden him with petty drama. “I-I mean, um, do you mind if I just–” you were stuttering now. The shrill yell of your assassin from somewhere on the main deck pulled both of your attentions.

“Are you running away?” Pops asked knowingly.

You nodded your head sheepishly, cheeks tinting with embarrassment. 

“He’s going to kill me once he finds me, so uh, could you help?” you asked, your tone more determined and filled with urgency.

Pop’s eyes were pulled to the farther end of the Moby and a small smile pulled at his face. The target of your prank was now in eyesight. In one quick and swift motion you were pulled into pops large hand and tucked behind his back between his yukata and shawl. You clung to his back trying to stay still as Thatch pounded up the steps to confront pops.

“Where are they?” he asked, his tone stern in the face of his captain.

“Where are who?” Pops said smugly as he tried to hold in his laugh.

“C,mon pops, I swear I saw them over here!” Thatch nearly whined at his captain.

“I haven’t seen them all day. Have you spoken with Marco?” Pops inquired trying to divert the third division commander.

“You think they’d hide with him?” You couldn’t see Thatch, but you could sense that he was mulling it over in his head. “Fine, I'll go check with him.” The padding of boots on wood faded into the background. You waited for a little while before pops urged you to come out of your hiding spot.

“Is he gone now?” you asked slowly, shuffling out from the layers of fabrics.

“I don’t think I can keep you safe at dinner, but you can hide here for as long as you want.” he said with a chuckle. “You really messed with his hair?”

“Purple really suits his skin tone, don’t you think?” you smiled sheepishly as you heard Thatch yelling down below.

Pops gave you a pointed look but smiled nevertheless. 

“Don’t worry it’ll wash out in a month or two…”

banner creds: cafekitsune

[birthday-hell]

Marco

Happy Birthday

October 5

[ratwithhands]

I'm drafting a sketch comic rn since my friends wanted a better visual on Emmet's lobotomizer 💀 This hopefully shouldn't take too long, here's my favourite page so far.

Not that it affects the story in any way but I think it'd be cool if the respirator and visor just form over top of his face when he needs it, like a force field. The electricity is coming from them activating and spreading over his face.

Also fun fact about Emmet and his weapon: Emmet refrains from talking about it to new recruits or people he hasn't spoken to before because it inevitably ends in disgusted faces and mental notes to not hang around him. It's one of the things he especially doesn't like about getting transferred to the JAKDF because he has to explain it to several new captains and commanders, as well as officers and recruits. In the meantime, he at least gets to utilize some more normal weaponry as he adjusts to the new people and routine.

[xamaxenta]

summer scorcher ☀️ stay hydrated 💦

its a shame I couldn’t share him on my bday but in reality im glad I didn’t rush the process

Please enjoy the grand lines most sexy but useless lifeguard in existence bc he cannot swim 🥰

[eternitas]

A painful night with rain

Watching the Battle for The Vongola Rain Guardian Ring was a traumatizing experience for one Varia member in particular.

Please ignore the inconsistency in time of day. I didn't think of the time difference between italy and japan, so please ignore that mistake.

"The Captain---- lost...?"

"I don't believe it...." A hush went through the room filled with Varia members, most from the rain division. Since the battles for the Vongola Rings had started there was a live feed of each battle that the present members gladly watched. Some with hope for their officers victory and some with the hope for their demise. Most however saw it as a good and fun time. After all this was supposed to be their sweeping victory over some middleschool kids, how hard would that be?

Now after one loss and two wins with 3 rings in their posession it had been a battle of the swordsmen between the japanese katana kid, a student of the Shigure Soen Ryu, and the Varias second in command and right hand of their boss, Squalo, the sword emperor himself. There had been not a single member that doubted this to be their overwhealming win.

But after what felt like at least an hour, they witnessed the greatest swordsman in all of europe be beaten and defeated with the blunt end of a katana to the back of his head as if it was a god damn parody. It felt like a practical joke that was played on them specifically as spectators from afar. As if right now Lussuria would jump out from behind the couch and laugh about having tricked all of them. But there was no jumping from anyone.

Nobody dared to say a word. Some didn't even dare to breath too loudly. And unfortunately this was not where it all ended. Not only that the officers were talking about who would take out Squalo for good, being a disgrace, having lost against a child, but just then a beast was let into the arena. It was now a deathtrap for their captain. The japanese kid tried to help Squalo get out, lifting him up, determined to help, but-

it all happened in the blink of an eye.

The platform broke and Ava jumped up from his seat, holding his breath, as they all witnessed their captain kick the kid to safer ground and then be attacked by the gigantic shark in the arena. The stone under him broke and all that was left was deep, murky water and the shadow of the shark slowly fading.

It was completely quiet as they stared at the TV that showed nothing but the now still arena.

Squalo.... had been devoured by a shark.

Their captain was ... gone...

Shock hung in the air, nobody truly knowing what to do or say, until a realisation dawned on some of them. Among them was someone who took this particular loss the hardest. Someone who just now witnessed a horrible personal tragedy.

Ava, the younger brother of Squalo, had just seen his brother get killed by a shark. The tension in the air became a different one as the temperature dropped and everyone just waited for Avas next movement. Everyone knew how incredibly skilled he was, but only few were aware of how much Squalos existance tethered Ava to sanity. Without Squalo there was no saying how the young boy would react. They had seen people who just as much as questioned or insulted Squalo, be almost sliced into pieces. They had seen Ava pace around the lobby whenever Squalo was longer out on missions. They had seen how close their relationship was despite them working as superior and subordinate. They all knew what this meant.

Sergey dared to lean towards Ava whose eyes were still glued to the screen. He seemed so lifeless the way he stood there absolutely unmoving, hardly even his breathing to be noticible.

"Ava...?" He carefully called out, as Lorenzo, close by already reached for his weapon, just in case of the worst.

"Squ... was-...."

There was a distant ringing and just a moment later someone stumbled into the room, phone in hand.

"It's Dino Cavallone!"

Sergey jumped up from his seat and ran towards the guy, snatching the phone right out of his hands to once again check who was on the other line.

One moment later he was next to Ava and held the phone towards him.

"Ava, it's the Cavallone boss-"

Without a word he grabbed the receiver and held it to his ear.

"Yes?" he asked in a deep voice, that felt like the calm before a storm.

"Ava, he is alive!! We got Squalo and are getting him into medical care right now!"

"Is that so?"

"Yes! Yes, Ava its me! I made sure my men would get a hold of your brother, so you dont need to-- he's alive, okay?!"

"And you are not lying to me?"

The whole room tensed for a second.

"No! Of course not, Ava! He will be fine, he's alive and we will take care of him, I promise! I won't-"

"Dino." Ava interrupted him, his voice dark and cold.

"I will trust your word. Please take good care of him. Ciao."

"Y-yes of cour-"

But Ava had already ended the call, arm hanging lose to the side, hand still wrapped around the telephone. Nobody dared to speak. Hardly anyone dared to even breath.

"That's... good news though, right? We can-"

"I'd actually like to be aone for a bit." Ava said quietly, barely audible, handing the phone to Sergey next to him and without giving a further look back to the Rain Division member that had talked to him, he left the room, any passing Varia member making way for the young boy with his head sunk low, that it was hard to make out his face.

Riddled with bad feelings Leo jumped from his position to go after Ava, but Sergey held him back.

"I know, Leo, but I don't think we can help him now. If anything we might just make it worse."

The halls were quiet now. Most people were probably still out and about reeling from the fight, they had just seen on the screen. But then again, there was no reason for anyone to be in this specific hall. After all the owners of these quarters were all out and wouldn't return for a good while.

The big windows in the hall were letting the moonlight in. It ws a clear night and the moon almost full. It would have be a serene and calming night, if it hadn't been for this fight. He felt a choking in his throat, his hand tightly grasping around the cold metal key in his hand before he quickened his pace to a fast walk to a certain door, unlocking the heavy wood and swinging the door open to enter.

As soon as he was inside he leaned against the door and felt his weight help it fall quicker into it's lock. Like that he stayed leaned against the door in a completely quiet room. Alone.

Alone.

Alone-

Tears struck his wide eyes, his body starting to tremble as he finally couldn't hold his emotions back anymore. His restricted throat let out a terribly hoarse sob, as the tears left his eyes like heavy raindrops. All strength left his body and he leaned back, head bumping against the wooden door as he slid it down, eventually sitting on the ground, his whole body shaking. His voice became a terirbly high pitched wail, when all of a sudden his throat unclogged and he started to painfully cry and sob. His voice echoed through the room, revirbrating from the walls and all encompasing him in the cold darkness, while he tried unsuccesfully to wipe his eyes that couldn't stop the tears. Everything hurt and unadulterated panic set into his bones. His brother- his only lifeline, his last bastion of sanity almost died in a sword duel. He was so far away right now and there was absolutely nothing he could do.

What was he supposed to do, other than completely shatter into pieces? He was completely helpless. There was nothing that could console him. Even Dinos call only managed to dull his existential panic. Right now Squalo was still not out of the worst. He was alive, but would he be able to be stable and recover? Would Dino be able to save him? Would he ever get his brother back?

Now that he knew that for now Squalo was a least alive, he was back to being that young boy, hiding in his small bedroom, crying into cushions so his uncle wouldn't find and hurt him. He was back to being a child, alone and abandoned by the only person that was truly still his family. 7 or 10 or 16, didn't matter. He was just a child left alone in this world with nothing else to hold onto. It was cold. So incredibly freezing cold and he could barely breath.

He sat there, on the ground, leaning back against the door, crying his lungs out of his body, wailing like a baby and nobody who'd hear and answer his cries. Squalo wouldn't come and dry his tears. Nobody would. So he remained there, crying, screaming and sobbing with only one deep wish.

Please come back! Supbi-- please--- please come back, brother! Don't leave me alone again! Don't leave me behind!

Outside the room Lorenzo couldn't move a muscle, just listen to the muffled cries he could make out just a few centimeters away from the door. All rooms were made almost perfectly noise cancelling, but Ava was still right at the door, crying his entire heart out. Of course he would hear something. He lifted his hand to knock, but then decided against it. There was nothing he could do. Nothing anyone could do to console the young boy. All that could help was if all of a sudden Squalo waltzed in and declared that he was perfectly fine. But other than that-- nothing. Lorenzo lowered his hand again and closed his eyes. It was painful to hear him so completely broken. Someone like Ava, with such bright eyes and such a soft smile should not have to experience something like this... He took a deep breath and pulled away from the door, making his way down the hall. At least... he knew Ava was still around and where to find him.

When Ava woke up his head hurt, his eyes felt crusty and his whole body was in pain. He had just fallen asleep mid crying, possibly from the mental exhaustion and slept in front of the door until the next morning. It felt weirdly surreal to wake up to the sun shining. Almost as if the night prior hadn't even happened.

I need to get to work...

Stiff and dissociative Ava stood up and left the room, locking the doors as he made his way almost slugishly towards the kitchen by pure instinct. He wasn't even hungry. It was just his daily routine. Kitchen, missionboard, briefing, work. Everyone he passed made way without saying anything. He didn't even care if they pitied him.

Going through the motions he entered the kitchen, hardly acknowledging Sergey and Leo, as he went to make himself a cup of tea. It was an automatism at this point.

"Hey... Morning, Ava."

"Morning.", he said emotionless and waited for the kettle to boil. It was completely quiet.

"Hey um--... Ava? Bruno said that he'll take you off schedule for today so you can.... relax a bit." Sergey said softly as if he was handling a tiny stry kitten.

So I am being pitied... They don't even think I can handle work... Then again maybe this is the best call. I might endanger someone else if I space out too much.

The kettle was done boiling and he took out a mug to put a teabag in and dowse it with hot water. Not how he'd usually make tea, but he had no energy for a proper brew. He took the cup to sit down at the bar, staring into the slowly colouring liquid, ignoring the seering heat from the mug that was burning his hands. His mind was completely blank. Not a single thought formed in his head. He just stared down into the mug and kept quiet. It felt like an eternity and at the same time only a minute before someone approached him and he looked up into Leos concerned face who placed a plate with a freshly made sandwich on the table, showing Ava a small note that read

"Eat at least something small"

"I'm not hungry, thank you." he said with a polite but empty smile, watching Leo flip the note around showing only one word.

Please

He didn't know what to answer. Leo had gone out of his way to properly prepare something for Ava to eat, he couldn't just keep denying his effort. Even if he was still pretty new to their organisation Leo had already proven himself to be a very nice and caring person. He wasn't trying to boss Ava around, he knew this much. it was pure and honest worry for a colleague.

"Thank you." Ava said finally and seeing a small smile spread on Leos face, as he watched Ava take the sandwich and take a small bite. Despite how delicious it was, it was weirdly tasteless to him. It looked like all of his senses had dulled.

"God damn can someone remove that depressed toddler from the premises?" Ava didn't need to look up to know he was being adressed by someone. From the sound of it it was a rather obnoxious guy from the lightning division.

"So your oh so holy big brother lost and got chomped by a shark, big deal, cry me a fucking river, at least this way officer Levi will finally become the bosses right hand-"

Sergey had explosively pushed himself from leaning against the nearest counter, stomping over to the guy and grabbing him by his hair, pulling him outside under strong protest and struggle that died down outside.

Ava took his hands away from the mug and got up.

"I'm sorry. I've lost all apetite. I will be taking my leave.," he said in a hushed voice and left the kitchen, not even acknowledging how Sergey was choking out the lightning division member. He was so tired. He just wanted to sleep and never wake up again. Or at least not until his brother had returned home. He made his way back to the room, only halting for a second when he noticed a bottle of water next to the door. Someone... knew he was staying here and was looking out for him.

But he ignored it and simply entered the room again, letting the doors fall into the lock, before he placed his forehead against the intricate wood. It smelled like cedar. It was such a weirdly nostalgic smell even though he barely remembered his past.

He didn't remember their mother or their father, barely even his own brother. But he clearly remembered one thing. One moment that had driven him to become versed with a sword and follow his brothers footsteps, to find him and stay by his side. His eyes watered again and he pushed himself away from the door. Finally he took off his old clothes and went to the closet to see what he could find. He noticed a long sleeved grey shirt and took it ut to put it on, feeling a form of comfort in how much bigger it was on his body and kept his own boxers before he checked the nightstand for any painkillers. Then he flushed a high dose down with some sink water and layed down in the big bed. The matress was so much harder than his own. But it was okay. He was exhausted and he wanted to just drown in the familiar and soothing scent that was at least calming him down somewhat.

When Squalo woke up in the hospital he felt his entire body aching with a dull pain. He knew this sort of feeling. He was on strong painkillers. breathing was a struggle with how much it hurt and he could hardly even groan. What had even happened? He looked around a bit and noticed a very familiar figure. Romario? What the hell is he doing he-

Suddenly it came back to him. The ring battles, his fight with the sword kid, his loss and--- his blinding pride-

Ava!

He tried to get up, groaning in pain, the machines he was stuck to blaring loudly. The door opened and a familiar voice grounded him back.

"What are you doing?! You're too injured to move like that yet!"

Dino.

Of course. The bucking bronco always had to get himself involved in matters he had no buisness in. Still. Right now Squalo was glad to see the other. His speaking was restricted, but he managed to make out one simple name.

"A-....va--...."

Dino closed his eyes and exhaled annoyed.

"Finally. Honestly, I almost thought you had completely lost your mind from that strike to your head. What were you thinking?! You knew he was watching that fight!"

That's not what I need to know!

Squalo tried to move again.

"Stop it. You're just going to make your condition all the worse. Of course I called him right away and told him that you're alive. We both know that if I didn't--" He didn't finish the thought. They both were very aware of how fragile Avas mental stability was when it came to his brothers safety and wellbeing.

What was I thinking... throwing my life away... Even though it's my pride as a swordsman, to do something like this to Ava--

He managed to look towards Dino. His speech was significantly impaired and it took all he had to stay conscious enough to talk and form thoughts, but it was enough for the moment.

"I.... owe.... you...."

"You certainly do. I can't believe you'd do this to him. If I didn't anticipate you being reckless again-"

"Get... me.... back.... to.... italy...."

Dino stared at Squalo with surprise, but caught himself.

"I can't do that. Not yet. Ava knows you're alive, and I can tell him that you woke up. But I can't just let you go, Squalo. You have to answer a few things first-"

"Fine.", he said in a hushed tone, shocking Dino with his compliance.

"Just... make... sure... I'll... be able... to... go... back...."

Dino wasn't entirely sure what Squalo meant by that, but to him it was obvious. If he survived this there was a good chance that Xanxus would gun for his head. And in turn endanger Ava with this. Only someone with the power that Dino had could ensure that at least Ava would be save from that lunatics wrath.

"Allright. But you need to rest now. I don't want to call Ava and tell him that you're dying again, because you refused to rest and recover."

It was almost a month before the officers and the boss returned to Varia HQ. Things had gone their usual tempo for a while now. There was nothing newsworthy and everyone kept quiet about the ring battles. Nobody dared to utter a word. Some knew that mentioning one specific fight would get half the rain division on your neck, some held their tongue not to speak of the revelations and end of the sky ring battle. Squalo was the one that returned last, having had to be treated off premises for his wounds.

When he returned however it was almost insultingly quiet. His division was working as usual and while everyone seemed thrilled that he was back, they all exchanged strange glances. More than anything else however, he was surprised that one person specifically hadn't waited at the doors for his arrival.

Slugishly he entered the breakroom, seeing Sergey and Ava sit at the table over reports. Ser looked up a wide grin on his face as he jumped up from his seat.

"Captain! You're back!"

At the loud exclaim Ava looked up and towards the door. Squalo lifted his hand in greeting.

"Yo."

He had expected Ava to jump up in joy, throw over the chair and hug him tightly as he welcomed Squalo back- but none of that. Instead Ava smiled politely.

"Welcome back, Captain. How are you feeling?"

Even Sergey was surprised at this reaction, staring in disbelief at Ava, who looked back towards the papers.

"We're almost done with our reports for today and will give them to Bruno right away."

".... Right."

Something was definitely off.

"Say, Ava, I need to talk to you in private, would you come with me for a second?"

"Of course, Captain."

Sergey simply watched as Ava got up and followed Squalo, unsure what to make of Avas behavior.

All while they walked towards Squalos room it was quiet. Ava didn't engage in conversation, didn't break the usual polite distance you'd have to your superior and didn't do anything that would be out of the ordinary, which in itself was not normal. Finally they reached Squalos room and he unlocked the door, letting Ava in first, while he followed.

As soon as Squalo had entered as well and the door fell into it's lock Ava jumped towards him, arms wrapped tightly around Squalos torso, clinging to his back and pressing his face into his brothers chest.

Of course he wouldn't be unaffected.

But somehow seeing Ava cling to him so tightly calmed Squalo down. He didn't lose his emotions. He had been traumatized, but at least he hadn't become completely closed off in his emotions. The sensation of wetness right around his chest, hit Squalo and he noticed the terrible shaking of Avas body, his own body softening. Despite the pain from his still lasting injuries, he wrapped his arms back around his younger brother and held him close, so he truly would feel it. The tight embrace made Ava choke on a sob, before he finally allowed himself to openly cry.

"I'm so sorry for scaring you, Ava.", Squalo said softly, stroking gently over Avas head, treating him like the child he still was with barely 16 years old. He leaned down to give him a kiss on his light blue hair- their mothers haircolor, and kept him close. Everything else could fuck off and wait. The Boss, the organisation- the entire world could fuck right off for the rest of the day. All that was important right now was for him to be a big brother and reassure Ava that he wouldn't leave him all of a sudden.

"I'm back home, Ava. I promise I won't leave you behind again. Ever."

[seasicksilver]

OC doodle dump aka the dumbasses